Well Manager Web Server for Real-Time Oil Field Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current well management systems for hydrocarbon production face limitations in data throughput and connectivity, relying on expensive proprietary hardware and short-range RF radios, which restrict real-time monitoring and control of rod pumps, leading to inefficiencies and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A well manager system with an integrated web server and standard commercial off-the-shelf computer technology, providing constant internet connectivity, on-site data processing, and real-time data reporting, allowing remote access and control via email, SMS, or internet messaging, eliminating the need for specialized SCADA protocols and hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proprietary hardware and short-range RF radios are used for well management systems, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the well manager system to perform multiple functions through standard hardware. The system can communicate via multiple protocols (SCADA, Modbus, HTTP, email, SMS) and use different communication methods (internet, cellular, radio) depending on availability, eliminating the need for specialized proprietary hardware for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces specialized RF radio communication hardware with standard commercial off-the-shelf components including internet-connected computers, cellular modems, and web servers. This substitution maintains communication reliability while using universally available technology rather than proprietary mechanical/electrical systems.
2Productivity
If constant internet connectivity is implemented, then data throughput is improved, but loss of time for system setup and configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the well manager with multiple communication protocols and methods during system installation. The system is prepared in advance to switch between internet, cellular, and radio communication modes, so that when deployment occurs, high-speed internet connectivity is immediately available without requiring time-consuming post-installation configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by creating an adaptive communication system that can dynamically switch between different communication methods based on availability. The system monitors internet connectivity and automatically transitions to alternative methods (cellular, radio) when needed, and vice versa, optimizing data throughput in real-time without manual intervention.
3Ease of operation
If remote access and control is enabled, then ease of operation is improved, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a web server as a mediator between remote users and the well manager system. The web server handles all remote communications, authentication, and data transmission, acting as a secure gateway that protects the core control system while enabling remote access through standardized web protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms for security monitoring and authentication. The system provides real-time feedback on connection status, authentication results, and system state to remote users through the web interface, while simultaneously monitoring for unauthorized access attempts and logging all remote interactions for security analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for well control and monitoring including an independent web server computer integrated with a pump controller located at each well in an oil field. The well controller locally controls the well pump, processes well and pump data, generates surface and downhole cards, and communicates production reports, recommendations for production improvements, and production statistics to remote sites via the internet. The controller can be queried remotely to provide production reports, etc. Furthermore, the controller can initiate alerts via email, text messaging, or internet messaging, for example, during fault conditions.