Real-Time Wellsite Control Models for Drilling Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optimizing reservoir operations rely on manual evaluation of large and complex data sets, which can be time-consuming and inefficient, particularly in real-time drilling and fracturing operations, as they require stopping operations to determine optimal control strategies.
Innovation Solution
A software system that automates the collection, processing, and analysis of real-time data from reservoir operations, using existing models and parameters to identify and optimize control strategies for drilling, completion, and stimulation processes by comparing data against performance criteria and generating optimized control models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual evaluation of parameters is used to determine control strategy modifications, then the accuracy of control optimization can be improved through expert analysis, but the operation time is significantly increased and operational efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical evaluation process with an automated computer-based system that uses algorithms to analyze reservoir operation data and determine control strategy modifications, eliminating the need for manual parameter evaluation while maintaining optimization accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the computer automatically collects data, evaluates parameters, and determines control strategy modifications without requiring human intervention, allowing continuous operation without stopping to manually assess parameters
2Productivity
If real-time data analysis is implemented to optimize control strategies, then the operational efficiency is improved by avoiding operational interruptions, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal computer-based control system that can handle multiple reservoir operations (drilling, completion, stimulation) and perform various functions (data collection, analysis, control strategy determination) through a single integrated platform, managing complexity through functional consolidation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary computer system that acts as a mediator between raw operational data and control decisions, processing and interpreting data through standardized algorithms to simplify the complexity of real-time analysis while maintaining operational efficiency
3Loss of time
If automated model identification is used to select control models from database, then the time required for control optimization is reduced, but the measurement precision of parameter identification may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the automated system continuously monitors operational parameters and control outcomes, using the results to refine and adjust control strategies in real-time, thereby maintaining measurement precision while operating at automated speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing and organizing reservoir operation data in databases before automated analysis is needed, and by pre-establishing multiple control models for selection, reducing the time required during actual optimization while maintaining accuracy through pre-validated models
Data Source
AI summary
In some aspects, the present invention comprises a system and method for optimizing the control scheme used for drilling operations based on the complex and large data sets available in realtime during operation of a wellsite and based on existing model data available at the wellsite for past similar drilling operations. Such optimizations typically require downtime to quantify how the realtime values will factor into the control model, but the present invention allows for such optimization in realtime in a closed-loop system that will reduce the non-productive time associated with reservoir operations.