Wellbore Automation Controller for Autonomous Logging Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing well-logging systems require a large crew of service technicians for operation, leading to inefficiencies and high costs due to the need for multiple technicians to manage various components, which can result in human error and prolonged assembly and operation times.
Innovation Solution
A wellbore automation system that includes a downhole tool with sensors for measuring physical parameters, a winch for traversing the tool through the wellbore, and an automation controller communicatively coupled to sensors for controlling the system based on feedback and defined instructions, allowing for autonomous operation and reduced crew requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a large crew of service technicians is employed to operate the well-logging system, then the system can be operated with human oversight and control, but the operational cost increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The well-logging system is designed to operate autonomously without requiring a large crew of service technicians. The system performs self-monitoring, self-adjustment, and self-navigation through integrated sensors and controllers, thereby eliminating the need for multiple human operators while maintaining operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with automated electronic control systems. Sensors collect data and automatically trigger appropriate responses through electronic controllers, substituting the mechanical coordination required by human crews with automated electro-mechanical systems
2Reliability
If a large crew of service technicians is employed to manage various components, then all system components can be monitored and controlled, but the assembly and operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor operational parameters and provide feedback to controllers. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables automatic adjustment and monitoring of system components without requiring human technicians to physically inspect or monitor each component, thereby reducing assembly and operation time while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary self-checks and pre-positioning of components during assembly through automated guidance systems. This preliminary automated action eliminates the need for manual inspection and adjustment by service technicians, reducing the time required for both assembly and subsequent operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service technicians are used to operate the well-logging system, then various components can be managed, but human error increases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system manages its own components through integrated controllers that automatically monitor and adjust operations based on sensor feedback. This self-service capability eliminates human error associated with manual operation while maintaining the adaptability to manage various system components through programmable control logic
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses programmable controllers that can adapt to different operational scenarios by changing control parameters and sequences. This allows the system to maintain versatility in managing different components while eliminating human error through consistent, error-free execution of predefined or learned operational protocols
Data Source
AI summary
A well-logging system includes a downhole tool coupled to a cable. The downhole tool may measure physical parameters of a wellbore via a first plurality of sensors. The well-logging system may include wellbore equipment including a winch. The winch may traverse the downhole tool through the wellbore by spooling or unspooling the cable. The well-logging system may also include a second plurality of sensors that may measure operational parameters of the wellbore equipment. The well-logging system may further include an automation controller that is communicatively coupled to the first plurality of sensors and the second plurality of sensors. A set of defined operating instructions may be prepared during the assembly of the job. The automation controller may control the wellbore equipment based at least in part on feedback from the first plurality of sensors, feedback from the second plurality of sensors, and the defined operating instructions.