Rod Pumping Unit Controller Downhole Card Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rod pumping unit controllers face inaccuracies in computing downhole dynamometer cards due to varying conditions, leading to inefficient operation and delayed diagnostic feedback, as different techniques yield varying results based on specific rod pumping unit and downhole conditions.
Innovation Solution
A controller that computes multiple downhole dynamometer cards using various techniques, such as Fourier Series and Finite Difference methods, and validates them based on rod pumping unit conditions, designating accurate cards for diagnostics and control, thereby addressing inaccuracies and variability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple downhole dynamometer card computation techniques are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the computation process by dividing it into multiple independent techniques (Fourier Series, Finite Difference, Ordinary Differential Equation). Each technique processes the surface measurements separately to generate a downhole dynamometer card, allowing the system to evaluate multiple results and select the most accurate one without requiring a single complex computation method.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements feedback by comparing results from multiple computation techniques and using validation logic to determine which downhole dynamometer card is most accurate. The system continuously monitors the computed cards and selects the valid result based on predefined criteria, ensuring improved measurement precision through iterative validation.
2Reliability
If multiple computation techniques are implemented, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs self-service by automatically evaluating multiple downhole dynamometer cards using different computation techniques and independently determining which result is valid. The system autonomously compares results, applies validation criteria, and selects the accurate card without requiring external intervention or complex user decision-making, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If various computational methods are used to compute downhole dynamometer cards, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to varying rod pumping unit conditions by selecting different computation techniques based on the specific operational context. The controller evaluates which technique is most appropriate for current conditions (such as pump fillage, fluid properties, or rod string characteristics) and adjusts the computation approach accordingly, enabling the system to adapt to diverse scenarios without requiring manual reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for operating a rod pumping unit includes a processor configured to operate the rod pumping unit at a pumping profile speed. The processor is further configured to compute a first downhole dynamometer card from surface measurements at the rod pumping unit. The processor is further configured to compute a second downhole dynamometer card from the surface measurements. The processor is further configured to validate at least one of the first downhole dynamometer card and the second downhole dynamometer card based on a rod pumping unit condition.