Wellhead Alignment via Computer Vision Offset Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Misalignment between drilling rigs and wellheads in oil and gas extraction operations can lead to equipment failure and temporary shutdowns, particularly in offshore environments where precise alignment is challenging due to long vertical distances.
Innovation Solution
A wellhead alignment system utilizing a visual marker and camera with computer vision algorithms to calculate the offset between the wellhead and drilling rig, enabling precise alignment through iterative image processing and adjustment recommendations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but alignment precision deteriorates due to long vertical distances in offshore environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment tools (laser aligners, transits, theodolites) with a computer vision-based optical system. A camera captures images of visual markers on the wellhead, and computer vision algorithms automatically calculate offset distances, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement equipment while improving precision over long vertical distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual markers (fiducial markers) that create a visual copy or representation of the wellhead's position and orientation. By capturing images of these markers and processing them through computer vision algorithms, the system creates a digital model of the spatial relationship between the drilling rig and wellhead, enabling precise alignment calculations without direct physical measurement.
2Productivity
If manual alignment procedures are used, then equipment cost is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming alignment processes
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is self-sufficient and automated. The camera automatically captures images of the visual markers, the computer vision algorithms automatically process the images to calculate offset distances, and the system automatically provides alignment recommendations. This eliminates the need for manual measurement and calculation procedures, significantly reducing alignment time while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual markers as an intermediary element between the drilling rig and wellhead. These markers serve as a中介 reference that can be easily captured by the camera and processed by computer vision algorithms, enabling rapid and accurate alignment determination without time-consuming manual procedures.
3Measurement precision
If visual markers are added to the wellhead, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The visual markers use distinct colors and patterns (such as colored circles, squares, or fiducial marker designs) that are easily distinguishable by the camera and computer vision algorithms. This allows for rapid automatic detection and precise position determination, improving offset calculation accuracy while keeping the markers visually simple and easy to implement.
Data Source
AI summary
A wellhead alignment system includes a visual marker configured to be placed at a wellhead and a camera configured to capture an image that includes the visual marker. The wellhead alignment system also includes one or more processors configured to apply computer vision algorithms to identify the visual marker in the image and to calculate an offset between the wellhead and a drilling rig based on a position of the visual marker in the image.