Abstract
Drilltronics is the project name of a new and innovative system for drilling automation and simulation. The concept uses all available drilling data (surface and downhole) in real time to optimize the drilling process. If a sensor is failing (PWD for example) then advanced models mirroring the drilling process will calculate the parameter missing (pressure at the PWD sensor position). The system is composed of the following elements:
Software modelling with algorithms that reflect the wellbore behaviour and its interaction with the drilling equipment. Currently under development are transient flow and heat transfer models, a drillstring torque and drag model, weight on bit optimization, and stick/slip analysis.
The models are driven in real time by drilling data that are logged at high acquisition rate. The system is continuously calibrated through analysing the data with advanced filtering techniques.
Real-time diagnosis of the drilling process is obtained from comparing measured data with model predictions. This makes up a basis for continuous adjustments to the drilling strategy.
An integrated drilling simulator is developed by linking the modules together, and combining it with an ROP model. This can be used for pre-planning, sensitivity analysis during drilling, post-well analysis, and training objectives.
Selected, critical sub-operations will be automated for fast and reliable reaction, e.g. automatic control of the drawwork based on dynamic surge and swab calculations, and automatic detection and first action after easily recognised symptoms on hole problems like pack off or stuck pipe.
In order to realize the full potential of Drilltronics, surface and downhole drilling data must be available in real time. The drilling equipment will need to be computer controlled with an interface that supports automatic responses to the model's analysis.
