Workflow Automation Framework for Oilfield Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydrocarbon production operations face inefficiencies due to repetitive, manually intensive workflows that require significant time and expertise, leading to inconsistencies and missed opportunities for additional analysis, and existing automation solutions lack a flexible framework for adaptive and synergistic workflows.
Innovation Solution
A flexible workflow framework that automates routine executions between multiple participants, provides a common operating environment for consistent workflow execution, and allows substitution of applications and introduction of additional steps, utilizing Monte-Carlo analysis and petrotechnical models to optimize oilfield operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual or semi-manual workflows are used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but time consumption increases and consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow is divided into discrete, standardized steps that can be independently automated. Each step represents a specific task or decision point that can be handled by the automation system, allowing complex workflows to be broken down into manageable automated units.
Solution Approach 2:
The automation framework is designed to handle multiple workflow types and applications through a single unified platform. The system can accommodate various petrotechnical applications and workflow scenarios without requiring separate specialized systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Reliability
If standardized automated workflows are implemented, then consistency and reliability improve, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow framework incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt to different applications and scenarios. The system can modify its behavior based on input data, conditions, and requirements, enabling standardized automation to accommodate diverse petrotechnical applications while maintaining consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows parameter changes and configuration adjustments to adapt workflows to different applications. By modifying parameters such as data formats, processing thresholds, and workflow steps, the same automated framework can serve multiple purposes without compromising reliability.
3Loss of time
If complex workflows are automated, then time consumption reduces, but ease of operation for non-expert users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The framework introduces an intermediary layer between complex workflow logic and end users. This intermediary provides simplified interfaces and abstractions that allow non-expert users to interact with complex workflows without needing to understand the underlying complexity, reducing time loss while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The automation system performs self-service by executing complex workflows autonomously without requiring continuous user intervention. The system manages its own execution, error handling, and data processing, freeing users from manual operations while maintaining simple interaction through high-level interfaces.
4Extent of automation
If custom integration of disparate systems is performed, then workflow automation is achieved, but system complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The framework provides a universal integration platform that can connect disparate petrotechnical systems through standardized interfaces. This universal approach eliminates the need for custom integration solutions for each system combination, reducing integration complexity while achieving comprehensive workflow automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces standardized intermediaries and connectors that facilitate integration between disparate applications. These intermediaries provide uniform communication protocols and data formats, simplifying the integration process and reducing the complexity of connecting multiple petrotechnical systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for implementing complex and disparate workflows, wherein a flexible framework (system architecture) is used for workflow automation, adaptation and integration.