Abstract
Oilfield technology has experienced such rapid advancement during the last decade that end users often find themselves lacking in the ability to understand and properly use the newly designed equipment; thus, they are unable to take full advantage of the benefits that the enhanced systems offer.
This paper will discuss the development of a new simulator that solves this problem by providing the oilfield end user with on-line ability to understand and properly operate newly designed equipment.
The simulator uses a very natural graphical user interface to convey complex technical information, and its usage enables a broader range of developers to produce quality simulations that would previously have been limited to development by the expert programmer.
In addition to a discussion of the development of equipment simulator methodology, the many uses of the technology that have been identified to date will also be presented. These include:
Conveying complex technical information
Reducing personnel training times
Designing well tests
Reviewing design processes to verify design parameters
Verifying customer requirements
Allowing operators to "practice" the well test before it is applied
The use of the equipment simulator promotes better understanding of equipment used for servicing and operation of the rig and well. With overall goals depending upon reductions in costs of drilling and completing wells, a better understanding of equipment helps ensure safer, more efficient operating conditions, which in turn, increases the probability for realization of economic goals.
