CA2666490A1 - Method and apparatus for well operations - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for well operations Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2666490A1 CA2666490A1 CA002666490A CA2666490A CA2666490A1 CA 2666490 A1 CA2666490 A1 CA 2666490A1 CA 002666490 A CA002666490 A CA 002666490A CA 2666490 A CA2666490 A CA 2666490A CA 2666490 A1 CA2666490 A1 CA 2666490A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- well
- fault
- display system
- screen
- parameter
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 62
- 230000000246 remedial effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 claims description 33
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 12
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 11
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 7
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000003745 diagnosis Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003129 oil well Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 2
- CYTYCFOTNPOANT-UHFFFAOYSA-N Perchloroethylene Chemical compound ClC(Cl)=C(Cl)Cl CYTYCFOTNPOANT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004568 cement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004590 computer program Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000004907 gland Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000010354 integration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003208 petroleum Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012552 review Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004576 sand Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011282 treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013024 troubleshooting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B41/00—Equipment or details not covered by groups E21B15/00 - E21B40/00
Abstract
A method for well servicing operations, which method comprises the steps of : (a) monitoring a parameter related to a well servicing function; (b) displaying a value of the parameter; (c) based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well servicing function; and (d) if a fault is determined to exist, correlating said value with a suggested remedial action for addressing said fault.
Description
Method and Apparatus for Well Operations The present invention relates to a method for well operations, to a method of servicing a well, to an apparatus for servicing a well and to a service vehicle comprising the apparatus.
Once an oil or gas well has been completed and is operating to extract material from within the earth -e.g. petroleum, gas, hydrocarbons, water or other fluid various well service operations are periodically performed to maintain the well. Such service operations may include e.g.: acidizing, fracturing, pumping sand, replacing worn parts such as a pump, sucker rods, inner tubing, and packer glands; pumping chemical treatments or hot oil down into the well bore; tubing services;
workovers; plug and abandonment operations; and pouring cement into the well bore to partially close off a portion of the well (or to shut it down entirely).
Maintenance or service operations can be performed by a well servicing rig, mobile rig, or by a workover rig, swab rig, or a service vehicle having special servicing equipment.
One particular prior art system useful in well servicing operations, provided by National Oilwell Varco is the KINETICS ENERGY CONTROL SYSTEM (described, e.g. in National Oilwell Varco Document No. SO 22277-0501-OPM-001; pp. 4 - 31 incorporated fully herein for all purposes) ("KEC" is a trademark) that has PLC based instrumentation and controls that increase the functionality of a rig's engine, drawworks clutch and brakes. With such systems there is electric rather than hydraulic/pneumatic operation of the drawworks, engine, and brakes which requires less physical exertion by an operator. The system provides alarms and monitoring of selected rig parameters to enable the operator to make more informed decisions. Stainless steel NEMA 4X
Once an oil or gas well has been completed and is operating to extract material from within the earth -e.g. petroleum, gas, hydrocarbons, water or other fluid various well service operations are periodically performed to maintain the well. Such service operations may include e.g.: acidizing, fracturing, pumping sand, replacing worn parts such as a pump, sucker rods, inner tubing, and packer glands; pumping chemical treatments or hot oil down into the well bore; tubing services;
workovers; plug and abandonment operations; and pouring cement into the well bore to partially close off a portion of the well (or to shut it down entirely).
Maintenance or service operations can be performed by a well servicing rig, mobile rig, or by a workover rig, swab rig, or a service vehicle having special servicing equipment.
One particular prior art system useful in well servicing operations, provided by National Oilwell Varco is the KINETICS ENERGY CONTROL SYSTEM (described, e.g. in National Oilwell Varco Document No. SO 22277-0501-OPM-001; pp. 4 - 31 incorporated fully herein for all purposes) ("KEC" is a trademark) that has PLC based instrumentation and controls that increase the functionality of a rig's engine, drawworks clutch and brakes. With such systems there is electric rather than hydraulic/pneumatic operation of the drawworks, engine, and brakes which requires less physical exertion by an operator. The system provides alarms and monitoring of selected rig parameters to enable the operator to make more informed decisions. Stainless steel NEMA 4X
enclosures are used which are suitable for hazardous area use (where necessary) and resilient mountings protect against shock and vibration.
One prior art version of the KECS system, the KECS -0002 version, provides a fault finding procedure with two basic steps .(1) basic inspection and testing of components and wiring and (2) software interrogation which requires plugging in a laptop computer into a system's PLC ("programmable logic controller") and interrogating the software. In certain aspects, the first step is done by a competent electrician. The second step is done, e.g., by a software engineer with knowledge of the system and the software code.
The present inventors have realised that it would be beneficial to use such a system for diagnosis and fault finding without requiring an operator's knowledge of the software code and without actually accessing that code.
According to the present invention there is provided a method for well service operations, which method comprises the steps of:
(a) monitoring a parameter related to a well servicing function;
(b) displaying a value of the parameter;
(c) based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well servicing function;
and (d) if a fault is determined to exist, correlating or associating said value with a suggested remedial action for addressing said fault. The method may be performed at an oil or gas well for example. In step (c) the fault may be an equipment fault during well service operations for example. In one aspect the equipment fault relates to non-downhole apparatus such as equipment on a drilling rig or service vehicle that is used to perform and/or control the well service operation.
One prior art version of the KECS system, the KECS -0002 version, provides a fault finding procedure with two basic steps .(1) basic inspection and testing of components and wiring and (2) software interrogation which requires plugging in a laptop computer into a system's PLC ("programmable logic controller") and interrogating the software. In certain aspects, the first step is done by a competent electrician. The second step is done, e.g., by a software engineer with knowledge of the system and the software code.
The present inventors have realised that it would be beneficial to use such a system for diagnosis and fault finding without requiring an operator's knowledge of the software code and without actually accessing that code.
According to the present invention there is provided a method for well service operations, which method comprises the steps of:
(a) monitoring a parameter related to a well servicing function;
(b) displaying a value of the parameter;
(c) based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well servicing function;
and (d) if a fault is determined to exist, correlating or associating said value with a suggested remedial action for addressing said fault. The method may be performed at an oil or gas well for example. In step (c) the fault may be an equipment fault during well service operations for example. In one aspect the equipment fault relates to non-downhole apparatus such as equipment on a drilling rig or service vehicle that is used to perform and/or control the well service operation.
Further steps of the method are set out in claims 2 to 17 to which attention is hereby directed.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of servicing a well, which method comprises the steps of:
(a) moving well servicing equipment to a well site;
and (b) employing a method as set out above during servicing of said well.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for servicing a well, which apparatus comprises a computer, such as a PLC, having a memory storing computer executable instructions for implementing a method as set out above.
There is also provided a well service vehicle comprising an apparatus as aforesaid.
The present invention, in at least certain aspects, provides a method for diagnosis of a well servicing system and of methods of its use which make it possible to more readily find and diagnose faults in the system and to troubleshoot those faults. In certain aspects, the present invention provides such methods and systems to implement them that include continuous real-time monitoring and, in certain aspects, display of various system and operational parameters so that problems can be recognized and more readily dealt with without knowledge of the software code used in computerized controllers and/or PLC's used with the system and without directly accessing the software code.
The present invention, in certain aspects, discloses systems and methods for well operations, in one aspect well servicing operations, the method in certain embodiments including: monitoring a parameter related to a well operations function or to a well servicing function and/or monitoring multiple such parameters, displaying values of the parameter(s); based on said values determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well operations function or to said well servicing function; and correlating said values with suggested remedial action to deal with said fault. In such systems and methods, wherein a control system with computer software controls an element of a well operations function or a well servicing apparatus which provides the function, an operator may determine if a fault exists without accessing the computer software and determines a possible remedial action without accessing the software. In certain aspects the displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with a control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, and the display system for processing the data received from the control system to produce values of the parameter(s).
Such a system according to the present invention can provide continuous real-time monitoring and display of selected parameter values and control system data and can log chosen critical parameters. In certain aspects, a display provides a real time log of specific selected rig operating parameters to assist in dealing with intermittent system problems and also provides an historical record of system parameters and operation in the event of any incident. This information is, optionally, downloadable from a display system onto a memory device, e.g., a memory card or drive and/or into a computer, laptop computer, PC, desktop or other computer (on site or remote) for further analysis and long term storage if desired. Optionally, such methods include accessing and reviewing past parameter values and equipment conditions (e.g., but not limited to, with a display system screen "scroll back" OR "Previous" screen function).
In certain particular aspects, elements for the system (e.g. one or more PLC's; safety barriers; power supply; terminals; thermostat; switches; cables;
connections; and/or heater) are installed inside a system PLC control cabinet fitted with mounting hardware to accommodate a display screen, e.g., a 5" Logging Display or a 10" Logging & Diagnostic Display. The display system has suitable power and communication interfaces and connections. In one aspect, the display system is in communication with the PLC, receives data from the PLC, processes the data with software within the display system, and displays (e.g., on screen and/or on strip chart) information related to measured parameter values in real-time. Upon review of parameter values, an operator correlates a value indicative of a fault or problem with suggested action to be taken to remedy the fault or problem (e.g. actions as listed in a list, matrix, or table in a manual or computerized list, etc.).
In certain aspects a system computer or PLC receives information about various rig apparatuses (on rig, off rig, adjacent to the rig, and/or ancillary rig equipment), etc. (e.g. operating parameters of a drawworks engine) via a network such as a PROFIBUS DP
network or via a network such as a CanBus network.
Diagnostic systems according to the present invention have, in certain aspects, a control system PLC which communicates with a rig operator's controls (e.g. at an operator console, e.g. a driller's controls), and the PLC
and the operator's controls can communicate with each other via a network such as a PROFIBUS data processing protocol network or a CanBus protocol network. The PROFIBUS protocol network typically provides an interface between the drawworks engine/transmission and the control system's PLC. By utilizing an appropriate device, e.g. a CanBus J1939 gateway (a device that translates CanBus into Profibus) a logging and a diagnostics system according to the present invention records and utilizes specific engine/transmission information received directly from the engine/transmission (via the gateway;
without passing through the PLC) to assist in the fault finding procedure. Information from sensors, controls, engine and/or transmission in its raw form is processed by the PLC and provided to the logging and diagnostic system. On many well service rigs the vehicle and the rig both use the same engine/transmission and can be interrogated with CanBus protocol technology while the rig control system often uses Profibus. The use of a CanBus gateway allows for more system integration.
Systems according to the present invention are useful with mobile rigs, e.g. well servicing rigs, trailered rigs, workover rigs, swabbing rigs, and with small drilling rigs on wheels and rigs movable from one site to another.
Accordingly, the present invention includes features and advantages which are believed to enable it to advance well servicing fault diagnosis and remedial action technology.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of servicing a well, which method comprises the steps of:
(a) moving well servicing equipment to a well site;
and (b) employing a method as set out above during servicing of said well.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for servicing a well, which apparatus comprises a computer, such as a PLC, having a memory storing computer executable instructions for implementing a method as set out above.
There is also provided a well service vehicle comprising an apparatus as aforesaid.
The present invention, in at least certain aspects, provides a method for diagnosis of a well servicing system and of methods of its use which make it possible to more readily find and diagnose faults in the system and to troubleshoot those faults. In certain aspects, the present invention provides such methods and systems to implement them that include continuous real-time monitoring and, in certain aspects, display of various system and operational parameters so that problems can be recognized and more readily dealt with without knowledge of the software code used in computerized controllers and/or PLC's used with the system and without directly accessing the software code.
The present invention, in certain aspects, discloses systems and methods for well operations, in one aspect well servicing operations, the method in certain embodiments including: monitoring a parameter related to a well operations function or to a well servicing function and/or monitoring multiple such parameters, displaying values of the parameter(s); based on said values determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well operations function or to said well servicing function; and correlating said values with suggested remedial action to deal with said fault. In such systems and methods, wherein a control system with computer software controls an element of a well operations function or a well servicing apparatus which provides the function, an operator may determine if a fault exists without accessing the computer software and determines a possible remedial action without accessing the software. In certain aspects the displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with a control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, and the display system for processing the data received from the control system to produce values of the parameter(s).
Such a system according to the present invention can provide continuous real-time monitoring and display of selected parameter values and control system data and can log chosen critical parameters. In certain aspects, a display provides a real time log of specific selected rig operating parameters to assist in dealing with intermittent system problems and also provides an historical record of system parameters and operation in the event of any incident. This information is, optionally, downloadable from a display system onto a memory device, e.g., a memory card or drive and/or into a computer, laptop computer, PC, desktop or other computer (on site or remote) for further analysis and long term storage if desired. Optionally, such methods include accessing and reviewing past parameter values and equipment conditions (e.g., but not limited to, with a display system screen "scroll back" OR "Previous" screen function).
In certain particular aspects, elements for the system (e.g. one or more PLC's; safety barriers; power supply; terminals; thermostat; switches; cables;
connections; and/or heater) are installed inside a system PLC control cabinet fitted with mounting hardware to accommodate a display screen, e.g., a 5" Logging Display or a 10" Logging & Diagnostic Display. The display system has suitable power and communication interfaces and connections. In one aspect, the display system is in communication with the PLC, receives data from the PLC, processes the data with software within the display system, and displays (e.g., on screen and/or on strip chart) information related to measured parameter values in real-time. Upon review of parameter values, an operator correlates a value indicative of a fault or problem with suggested action to be taken to remedy the fault or problem (e.g. actions as listed in a list, matrix, or table in a manual or computerized list, etc.).
In certain aspects a system computer or PLC receives information about various rig apparatuses (on rig, off rig, adjacent to the rig, and/or ancillary rig equipment), etc. (e.g. operating parameters of a drawworks engine) via a network such as a PROFIBUS DP
network or via a network such as a CanBus network.
Diagnostic systems according to the present invention have, in certain aspects, a control system PLC which communicates with a rig operator's controls (e.g. at an operator console, e.g. a driller's controls), and the PLC
and the operator's controls can communicate with each other via a network such as a PROFIBUS data processing protocol network or a CanBus protocol network. The PROFIBUS protocol network typically provides an interface between the drawworks engine/transmission and the control system's PLC. By utilizing an appropriate device, e.g. a CanBus J1939 gateway (a device that translates CanBus into Profibus) a logging and a diagnostics system according to the present invention records and utilizes specific engine/transmission information received directly from the engine/transmission (via the gateway;
without passing through the PLC) to assist in the fault finding procedure. Information from sensors, controls, engine and/or transmission in its raw form is processed by the PLC and provided to the logging and diagnostic system. On many well service rigs the vehicle and the rig both use the same engine/transmission and can be interrogated with CanBus protocol technology while the rig control system often uses Profibus. The use of a CanBus gateway allows for more system integration.
Systems according to the present invention are useful with mobile rigs, e.g. well servicing rigs, trailered rigs, workover rigs, swabbing rigs, and with small drilling rigs on wheels and rigs movable from one site to another.
Accordingly, the present invention includes features and advantages which are believed to enable it to advance well servicing fault diagnosis and remedial action technology.
For a better understanding of the present invention, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1A is a side view of a prior art well system;
Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of a well service vehicle using an apparatus and method according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a schematic end view of the vehicle of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3A is a schematic side view of the vehicle of Fig. 1 in a trasporation mode;
Fig. 3B is a schematic side view of part of the vehicle of Fig. 1 at a first stage of use;
Fig. 3C is a schematic side view of part of the vehicle of Fig. 1 at a second stage of use;
Figs. 4 - 7F are illustrations of various different images that are displayed on a screen of a display system according to the present invention; and Fig. 8A is a side view of a rig according to the present invention; and Fig. 8B is an end view of the rig of Fig. 8A.
Fig. 1A illustrates a conventional prior art environment in which the system with a well 8 containing a well casing 12 having a well head 14 located at the earth surface. A tubing string 16 extends down the well through the well head and through tubing hanging slips 18 (e.g. power operated) positioned on the well head 14. The tubing string is held by means of an elevator 20 which is connected to traveling block 22 by means of elevator links 24 and 26. Hoist cables 28 and 30 connect the traveling block to a hoist 15 (shown schematically).
Power tongs 21 and back up 23 are located above well head 14 to disconnect or to connect threaded tubing sections into the tubing string.
Fig. 1A is a side view of a prior art well system;
Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of a well service vehicle using an apparatus and method according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a schematic end view of the vehicle of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3A is a schematic side view of the vehicle of Fig. 1 in a trasporation mode;
Fig. 3B is a schematic side view of part of the vehicle of Fig. 1 at a first stage of use;
Fig. 3C is a schematic side view of part of the vehicle of Fig. 1 at a second stage of use;
Figs. 4 - 7F are illustrations of various different images that are displayed on a screen of a display system according to the present invention; and Fig. 8A is a side view of a rig according to the present invention; and Fig. 8B is an end view of the rig of Fig. 8A.
Fig. 1A illustrates a conventional prior art environment in which the system with a well 8 containing a well casing 12 having a well head 14 located at the earth surface. A tubing string 16 extends down the well through the well head and through tubing hanging slips 18 (e.g. power operated) positioned on the well head 14. The tubing string is held by means of an elevator 20 which is connected to traveling block 22 by means of elevator links 24 and 26. Hoist cables 28 and 30 connect the traveling block to a hoist 15 (shown schematically).
Power tongs 21 and back up 23 are located above well head 14 to disconnect or to connect threaded tubing sections into the tubing string.
In certain aspects, systems and methods according to the present invention are intended for use in the environment shown in Fig. 1A. As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, a system 10 according to the present invention includes a wheeled vehicle 31 having sets of wheels 32 and 33 at the front and rear of the vehicle, respectively. Power systems are provided on the vehicle including an operator's cab at 34 and a power drive system 35 with an engine 35a for operating the vehicle and a winching system 36 all of which may be driven from a single power driven system.
The system 10 includes pipe rack arms 37, a jib crane 38, pipe conveyors 39, transfer arms 41, a hoist cables 42, a derrick 43, a crown block 44, a pipe manipulator 45, a traveling block 46, power tongs 21, back up tongs 23, a centralizer 47, and an elevator 48.
The foregoing equipment is supported on and provided with operating apparatus that is also supported on the vehicle 31. When in operating position, the vehicle is leveled by a set of levelers 49 which engage the earth surface.
A control system 60 according to the present invention includes a login/diagnostic display system 70 which provides on screen real-time indications of system parameter levels and/or values, changes in them over a specified time period, a"scroll back" ability for viewing past (and recent past) parameter levels and/or values, and gives an operator a visual display of parameter levels and/or values in real-time. The system 60 may use any suitable computer(s) and/or PLC(s).
Optionally, the control system 60 and/or display system 70 are in/on a PLC cabinet 33' (and any system according to the present invention herein may have such a PLC
cabinet).
A system 100 according to the present invention is illustrated in Fig. 3A. The system 100 includes a wheeled vehicle 110, having a cab 134 and a bed 114 for mounting operating equipment. The operating equipment includes a winch or hoisting system 116 and a power drive system 118. The system 100 includes a hydraulically operated derrick 120, having a hoist block 122 and elevator 124, that are shown in a stored position for transport to a well head 126. A racking platform 128 is folded against the side of the derrick 120 for transportation.
Tong assembles 130 are pivotally mounted on the frame of derrick 120, and when not in use, are folded against the forward end of vehicle 110. A control system 132 (like the control system of Fig. 1) for controlling operation of elements of the system 100 including the tong assemblies 130 also has a system 170 (like the system 70, Fig. 1). Optionally, a PLC cabinet 133 (like the PLC cabinet 33, Fig. 1) is used with the display system 170.
The system 100 is driven to a site and positioned adjacent to the well head 126. The derrick 120 is then raised into a vertical position by the hydraulic cylinders 112 and stabilized in the position illustrated in Fig. 3B. The racking platform 128 is then lowered to the position shown in Fig. 3B for receiving and racking tubulars, e.g. pipes, tubing, and/or rods.
The system 100 as shown in Fig. 3B, is set up for handling rods. A rod string is set in position in rod slips 198 to hold a rod string 138. Rod slips 198 prevent the string from falling back into the well. The hoist 122 and elevator 124 are then lowered close to rod slips 198 and the collar of rod string 138 placed in the elevator 124. The hoist 122 is then lifted to the position shown in Fig. 3B. An operator 140 then presses a momentary switch on the control system 132 to activate the tong assembly 144. Once activated, the tong assembly 144 moves forward to grip the junction between adjacent rods in the rod string 138, disconnects or connects adjacent rods, and then retracts.
Once an upper rod 139 is detached from the rod string 138, the elevator and blocks are lowered and a floor man 141 can manipulate a robotic rod and pipe handler 146 by a waist mounted control (optionally in communication with the control system 132) or joy stick 158 connected by cable 153. The floor man 141 advances the handler 146 and grips the detached rod 139 after the hoist 122 has been lowered below the racking board 128.
The hoist block 122 is lowered below the free end of the rod 139 allowing the floor man 141 to manipulate the handler 146 to place the rod in the racking board 128 as shown in Fig. 3C. The free end of rod 139 is allowed to rest on a base 160.
Fig. 4 shows display system's screen according to the present invention (e.g. for a system 70 or a system 170), a start up screen for one embodiment of the present invention (which may be a touch screen) . Touch screens with touch screen buttons may be used to navigate through the available screens. In one particular aspect this display screen for a system according to the present invention is a 10" STN touch screen (e.g. Siemens Simatic TP 270). The display includes a removable Secure Digital (SD) memory device or equivalent flash memory card MC
(shown schematically) to allow data to be downloaded from a PLC onto the flash memory card MC and transferred onto a computer for further analysis and storage. The system in one aspect logs approximately seven to ten signals. In one aspect, this data is sampled every second and stored for a period of twenty hours or longer before being overwritten.
As shown in Fig. 4, when it is desired to view levels or values of other operation parameters, pushing the "Next" button reveals the next screen. Pushing the "Start Log" button instructs the display system to begin logging (recording) data from the PLC and processing it (the display system includes its own data processor, computer, and/or PLC). Pushing the "Stop Log" button instructs the display system to cease logging (recording) data from the PLC. Pushing the "Exit" button exits the display system program. The "Logging Status" bar indicates whether the system is receiving data ("logging") or has ceased doing this ("Stop Log").
In certain embodiments there are a minimum of seven screens available on the display, including approximately four diagnostic screens. Digital values are shown as 0 or 1; analogue values are shown as numeric values on the diagnostic screens. One, two, or more logging screens show information in line graph format.
The logging screen(s) may, e.g., show selected values from the following parameter list:
Joystick Position Joystick Dead Man Switch Position PLC Brake Output value Brake System Pressure PLC Drawworks Clutch Output Rig Engine RPM (e.g. engine 35, Fig. 1) Block Height Block Speed Hook Load Over Ride Push Button Position Mode Switch Position (e.g. modes of a KECS ((TM)) system) Fig. 5 shows a typical logging screen which, illustrates graph lines in real-time for three system parameters. The lower horizontal axis is a time axis. For example, one graph line indicates the height of the rig's travelling block ("B1ockHeight"); one graph line indicates the position of an operator's joystick ("J/Stick"); and one graph line indicates hook load ("HookLoad").
As shown in Fig. 5, when it is desired to view historical levels or values of operational parameters, pushing the "Return" button scrolls the display backwards chronologically. Pushing the "Next" button scrolls the display forwards chronologically. The "Real Data"
indicator at the top of the screen indicates when real time levels or values are being displayed.
The data represented on the logging screen(s) is obtained from sensors (e.g. sensors S, Figs 1A, shown schematically) on each element of a rig which are in communication with the control system computer or PLC. In certain aspects, these screens show selected parameter values grouped by functionality. For example, parameters associated with raising the block or engine only (auxiliary equipment operation) are shown on the same screen. These diagnostic screens are used in conjunction with a fault finding manual or screen display to simplify the fault finding procedure. Examples of these screens can be seen in Figs. 7A - 7C.
Suitable communication cables for interface with a drawworks control PLC ("PL", Fig. 1) and other system sensors and elements provide communication with the control system. In certain aspects the display system operating ambient temperature is 0 C to +40 C and system operating ambient humidity is 90% (non condensing).
The fault finding protocols and procedures are available in hard copy and/or physical papers or manuals which contain criteria, tables and steps for fault finding and trouble shooting procedures, e.g. procedures related to rig functionality such as "raising the blocks"
and "engine only" (tong/utility winch) operation, etc.;
or these are presented on screen. These procedures, the manual, and its lists, matrices, tables, etc. and the diagnostic display screens assist with fault finding of specific recurring problems. This can be done following a study of historical rig problem data. In certain aspects the manual (or screen display) contains descriptions of each functionality based test; a matrix of possible test results with remedial actions; and examples of screen displays (screen shots) seen during each specific test.
In one particular aspect, in a fault finding format according to the present invention, a test is performed of auxiliary equipment, an engine only test. With the engine idling, the control system switched on, and the joystick at rest, a basic engine control diagnostic screen looks like screenshot 1 (Fig. 7A). As the joystick is moved, e.g. left or right, a joystick signal starts to rise and both the engine throttle and RPM values increase as shown in Screenshot 2 (Fig 7B). The engine speed is heard increasing. With the joystick fully to the left or right, all signals should be at or near maximum as shown in Screenshot 3 (Fig 7C) and the engine noise should indicate high RPM. When moving the joystick slowly left or right, all signals should increase and decrease (track) together. If any signal is missing or not tracking, a fault finding chart (e.g. see Fig. 5A or Fig 6) is used to determine the existence of a fault. This chart can be in a printed paper manual (Fig. 6) or presented in a screen of the display system (e.g. by pushing or touching the "Chart" button, Fig. 5, producing a screen as in Fig. 5A) . Absence of the joystick or engine throttle signals may stop the engine from running.
For example, if the value for "Joystick Output" in Screenshot 3 is zero, an operator goes to the Result Matrix (Fig 5A or Fig. 6) and looks in the box which indicates a"0" in the Joystick column. This is box "BX"
in Fig. 6. The operator then checks the corresponding "Action" column to determine what action is to be taken -in this case "Check joystick". Similarly for any box indicating a zero value (a "Missing or problem signal"
box), an operator locates the correct box and then sees what action is indicated in a corresponding "Action" box.
The "Engine Status" boxes indicate a variety of possible statuses for the rig engine.
It is within the scope of the present invention, in particular aspects, to automatically provide an indication of a possible remedial action to be taken when the display system displays a parameter value indicating a fault or possible fault in an operational function. In one aspect, for example, on a tubular screen (e.g. the screen of Fig. 7A) the operator pushes (touches) a line (e.g. "Joystick Output O") and the next screen display is the "Action" box or boxes from a list or test results matrix (e.g. as in Fig. 6) (e.g. the operator touches "Joystick Output O") and the next screen displays the top and the bottom boxes from the "Action" column of Fig. 6.
The operator knows the engine is either idling or silent and chooses the action listed corresponding to this Engine Sound.
In another aspect, the operator touches a line indicating a potential fault (e.g. the line "Joystick Output O" in Fig. 7D) and then touches the "Additional Input" button. The next screen asks for additional information before the system automatically displays the remedial action to be taken. For example, after touching the "Joystick Output O" line of Fig. 7D, the operator views the next screen as shown in Fig. 7E and touches "Idling" in the "Engine Status" column and "Idling" in the "Engine Noise" column. Either automatically or upon touching the "Auto" button, the display system displays screen 7F which shows the suggested remedial action.
The system 10 includes pipe rack arms 37, a jib crane 38, pipe conveyors 39, transfer arms 41, a hoist cables 42, a derrick 43, a crown block 44, a pipe manipulator 45, a traveling block 46, power tongs 21, back up tongs 23, a centralizer 47, and an elevator 48.
The foregoing equipment is supported on and provided with operating apparatus that is also supported on the vehicle 31. When in operating position, the vehicle is leveled by a set of levelers 49 which engage the earth surface.
A control system 60 according to the present invention includes a login/diagnostic display system 70 which provides on screen real-time indications of system parameter levels and/or values, changes in them over a specified time period, a"scroll back" ability for viewing past (and recent past) parameter levels and/or values, and gives an operator a visual display of parameter levels and/or values in real-time. The system 60 may use any suitable computer(s) and/or PLC(s).
Optionally, the control system 60 and/or display system 70 are in/on a PLC cabinet 33' (and any system according to the present invention herein may have such a PLC
cabinet).
A system 100 according to the present invention is illustrated in Fig. 3A. The system 100 includes a wheeled vehicle 110, having a cab 134 and a bed 114 for mounting operating equipment. The operating equipment includes a winch or hoisting system 116 and a power drive system 118. The system 100 includes a hydraulically operated derrick 120, having a hoist block 122 and elevator 124, that are shown in a stored position for transport to a well head 126. A racking platform 128 is folded against the side of the derrick 120 for transportation.
Tong assembles 130 are pivotally mounted on the frame of derrick 120, and when not in use, are folded against the forward end of vehicle 110. A control system 132 (like the control system of Fig. 1) for controlling operation of elements of the system 100 including the tong assemblies 130 also has a system 170 (like the system 70, Fig. 1). Optionally, a PLC cabinet 133 (like the PLC cabinet 33, Fig. 1) is used with the display system 170.
The system 100 is driven to a site and positioned adjacent to the well head 126. The derrick 120 is then raised into a vertical position by the hydraulic cylinders 112 and stabilized in the position illustrated in Fig. 3B. The racking platform 128 is then lowered to the position shown in Fig. 3B for receiving and racking tubulars, e.g. pipes, tubing, and/or rods.
The system 100 as shown in Fig. 3B, is set up for handling rods. A rod string is set in position in rod slips 198 to hold a rod string 138. Rod slips 198 prevent the string from falling back into the well. The hoist 122 and elevator 124 are then lowered close to rod slips 198 and the collar of rod string 138 placed in the elevator 124. The hoist 122 is then lifted to the position shown in Fig. 3B. An operator 140 then presses a momentary switch on the control system 132 to activate the tong assembly 144. Once activated, the tong assembly 144 moves forward to grip the junction between adjacent rods in the rod string 138, disconnects or connects adjacent rods, and then retracts.
Once an upper rod 139 is detached from the rod string 138, the elevator and blocks are lowered and a floor man 141 can manipulate a robotic rod and pipe handler 146 by a waist mounted control (optionally in communication with the control system 132) or joy stick 158 connected by cable 153. The floor man 141 advances the handler 146 and grips the detached rod 139 after the hoist 122 has been lowered below the racking board 128.
The hoist block 122 is lowered below the free end of the rod 139 allowing the floor man 141 to manipulate the handler 146 to place the rod in the racking board 128 as shown in Fig. 3C. The free end of rod 139 is allowed to rest on a base 160.
Fig. 4 shows display system's screen according to the present invention (e.g. for a system 70 or a system 170), a start up screen for one embodiment of the present invention (which may be a touch screen) . Touch screens with touch screen buttons may be used to navigate through the available screens. In one particular aspect this display screen for a system according to the present invention is a 10" STN touch screen (e.g. Siemens Simatic TP 270). The display includes a removable Secure Digital (SD) memory device or equivalent flash memory card MC
(shown schematically) to allow data to be downloaded from a PLC onto the flash memory card MC and transferred onto a computer for further analysis and storage. The system in one aspect logs approximately seven to ten signals. In one aspect, this data is sampled every second and stored for a period of twenty hours or longer before being overwritten.
As shown in Fig. 4, when it is desired to view levels or values of other operation parameters, pushing the "Next" button reveals the next screen. Pushing the "Start Log" button instructs the display system to begin logging (recording) data from the PLC and processing it (the display system includes its own data processor, computer, and/or PLC). Pushing the "Stop Log" button instructs the display system to cease logging (recording) data from the PLC. Pushing the "Exit" button exits the display system program. The "Logging Status" bar indicates whether the system is receiving data ("logging") or has ceased doing this ("Stop Log").
In certain embodiments there are a minimum of seven screens available on the display, including approximately four diagnostic screens. Digital values are shown as 0 or 1; analogue values are shown as numeric values on the diagnostic screens. One, two, or more logging screens show information in line graph format.
The logging screen(s) may, e.g., show selected values from the following parameter list:
Joystick Position Joystick Dead Man Switch Position PLC Brake Output value Brake System Pressure PLC Drawworks Clutch Output Rig Engine RPM (e.g. engine 35, Fig. 1) Block Height Block Speed Hook Load Over Ride Push Button Position Mode Switch Position (e.g. modes of a KECS ((TM)) system) Fig. 5 shows a typical logging screen which, illustrates graph lines in real-time for three system parameters. The lower horizontal axis is a time axis. For example, one graph line indicates the height of the rig's travelling block ("B1ockHeight"); one graph line indicates the position of an operator's joystick ("J/Stick"); and one graph line indicates hook load ("HookLoad").
As shown in Fig. 5, when it is desired to view historical levels or values of operational parameters, pushing the "Return" button scrolls the display backwards chronologically. Pushing the "Next" button scrolls the display forwards chronologically. The "Real Data"
indicator at the top of the screen indicates when real time levels or values are being displayed.
The data represented on the logging screen(s) is obtained from sensors (e.g. sensors S, Figs 1A, shown schematically) on each element of a rig which are in communication with the control system computer or PLC. In certain aspects, these screens show selected parameter values grouped by functionality. For example, parameters associated with raising the block or engine only (auxiliary equipment operation) are shown on the same screen. These diagnostic screens are used in conjunction with a fault finding manual or screen display to simplify the fault finding procedure. Examples of these screens can be seen in Figs. 7A - 7C.
Suitable communication cables for interface with a drawworks control PLC ("PL", Fig. 1) and other system sensors and elements provide communication with the control system. In certain aspects the display system operating ambient temperature is 0 C to +40 C and system operating ambient humidity is 90% (non condensing).
The fault finding protocols and procedures are available in hard copy and/or physical papers or manuals which contain criteria, tables and steps for fault finding and trouble shooting procedures, e.g. procedures related to rig functionality such as "raising the blocks"
and "engine only" (tong/utility winch) operation, etc.;
or these are presented on screen. These procedures, the manual, and its lists, matrices, tables, etc. and the diagnostic display screens assist with fault finding of specific recurring problems. This can be done following a study of historical rig problem data. In certain aspects the manual (or screen display) contains descriptions of each functionality based test; a matrix of possible test results with remedial actions; and examples of screen displays (screen shots) seen during each specific test.
In one particular aspect, in a fault finding format according to the present invention, a test is performed of auxiliary equipment, an engine only test. With the engine idling, the control system switched on, and the joystick at rest, a basic engine control diagnostic screen looks like screenshot 1 (Fig. 7A). As the joystick is moved, e.g. left or right, a joystick signal starts to rise and both the engine throttle and RPM values increase as shown in Screenshot 2 (Fig 7B). The engine speed is heard increasing. With the joystick fully to the left or right, all signals should be at or near maximum as shown in Screenshot 3 (Fig 7C) and the engine noise should indicate high RPM. When moving the joystick slowly left or right, all signals should increase and decrease (track) together. If any signal is missing or not tracking, a fault finding chart (e.g. see Fig. 5A or Fig 6) is used to determine the existence of a fault. This chart can be in a printed paper manual (Fig. 6) or presented in a screen of the display system (e.g. by pushing or touching the "Chart" button, Fig. 5, producing a screen as in Fig. 5A) . Absence of the joystick or engine throttle signals may stop the engine from running.
For example, if the value for "Joystick Output" in Screenshot 3 is zero, an operator goes to the Result Matrix (Fig 5A or Fig. 6) and looks in the box which indicates a"0" in the Joystick column. This is box "BX"
in Fig. 6. The operator then checks the corresponding "Action" column to determine what action is to be taken -in this case "Check joystick". Similarly for any box indicating a zero value (a "Missing or problem signal"
box), an operator locates the correct box and then sees what action is indicated in a corresponding "Action" box.
The "Engine Status" boxes indicate a variety of possible statuses for the rig engine.
It is within the scope of the present invention, in particular aspects, to automatically provide an indication of a possible remedial action to be taken when the display system displays a parameter value indicating a fault or possible fault in an operational function. In one aspect, for example, on a tubular screen (e.g. the screen of Fig. 7A) the operator pushes (touches) a line (e.g. "Joystick Output O") and the next screen display is the "Action" box or boxes from a list or test results matrix (e.g. as in Fig. 6) (e.g. the operator touches "Joystick Output O") and the next screen displays the top and the bottom boxes from the "Action" column of Fig. 6.
The operator knows the engine is either idling or silent and chooses the action listed corresponding to this Engine Sound.
In another aspect, the operator touches a line indicating a potential fault (e.g. the line "Joystick Output O" in Fig. 7D) and then touches the "Additional Input" button. The next screen asks for additional information before the system automatically displays the remedial action to be taken. For example, after touching the "Joystick Output O" line of Fig. 7D, the operator views the next screen as shown in Fig. 7E and touches "Idling" in the "Engine Status" column and "Idling" in the "Engine Noise" column. Either automatically or upon touching the "Auto" button, the display system displays screen 7F which shows the suggested remedial action.
Automatic suggested action display can be done with respect to any of the fault-indicating values for any parameter.
Each PLC, computer, control system, and display system herein includes computer readable media containing appropriate executable instructions that when executed by the PLC, computer, control system or display system implement a method to accomplish the desired function or effect and computer programs used in said PLC, etc.
comprise logic for accomplishing said function or effect.
With such systems according to the present invention, an operator need only access displayed data and use the fault finding protocols to determine that a fault exists and to determine possible remedial action.
This operator does not need to have any intimate knowledge of the control system's software code nor does the operator need to actually access this code to find a fault and to learn actions to take to remedy the fault.
Figs. 8A and 8B show a rig 800 according to the present invention comprising a wheeled vehicle 202 and a derrick system 220 (e.g. like the derrick 120). The rig 200 has a logging and diagnostic system 210 according to the present invention which receives data from a PLC 230 (e.g. like the PLC's in the systems of Fig. 1 and Fig.
3A). The PLC 230 receives data from the various on-rig, adjacent-to-the-rig, and/or ancillary equipment which it processes and sends to the system 210. An operator communicates with the system 210 via a console 240 (e.g.
a driller's control console).
Fig. 8A shows a mast 222 of the derrick system 220 in both a lowered position ("mast lowered") and a raised position ("mast raised").
The present invention, therefore, provides in at least some embodiments, a method for well servicing operations, the method including: monitoring a parameter related to a well servicing function; displaying a value of the parameter; based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well servicing function; and correlating said value with suggested remedial action to deal with said fault. Such a method may include one or some - in any possible combination - of the following: wherein a control system with computer software controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, and an operator determines if a fault exists without accessing the computer software; wherein said correlating includes correlating said displayed value with a suggested remedial action; wherein said suggested remedial action is listed in a hard copy printed item;
wherein said suggested remedial action is displayed on a screen; wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information;
wherein a control system with computer software controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with the control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, and the method further including the display system processing the data received from the control system to produce the value of the parameter; removably installing a memory device in the display system, and transferring information related to the value of the parameter to the memory device; removing the memory device from the display system, and transferring information from the memory device to another apparatus, e.g. a computer, PLC, laptop, or desktop; wherein a control system controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with the control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, wherein when a value of a parameter is selected indicative of a fault, the display system automatically displays a suggested remedial action for dealing with the fault; wherein the control system has programmable media with computer software to facilitate control of the element of the well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, and an operator determines if a fault exists without accessing the computer software; wherein a control system controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with the control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, wherein when a value of a parameter is selected indicative of a fault and additional information about the well servicing operations is entered into the display system, the display system automatically displays a suggested remedial action for dealing with the fault; wherein the control system has programmable media with computer software to facilitate control of the element of the well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, and an operator determines if a fault exists without accessing the computer software;; wherein multiple values of the parameter are displayed; wherein multiple parameters are displayed; wherein steps are performed by an operator using a touch screen; wherein the screen is a touch screen; wherein selected parameter values are displayed grouped by functionality; the display includes means for going back to at least one or multiple previous screen displays; and/or in which computers or PLC's used in the method have programmable media programmed to accomplish the appropriate function or functions.
The present invention, therefore, provides in at least some embodiments, a method for well operations, the method including monitoring at least one parameter related to a well operation function, displaying a value of the at least one parameter, based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well operation function, and correlating said value with suggested remedial action to deal with said fault.
Each PLC, computer, control system, and display system herein includes computer readable media containing appropriate executable instructions that when executed by the PLC, computer, control system or display system implement a method to accomplish the desired function or effect and computer programs used in said PLC, etc.
comprise logic for accomplishing said function or effect.
With such systems according to the present invention, an operator need only access displayed data and use the fault finding protocols to determine that a fault exists and to determine possible remedial action.
This operator does not need to have any intimate knowledge of the control system's software code nor does the operator need to actually access this code to find a fault and to learn actions to take to remedy the fault.
Figs. 8A and 8B show a rig 800 according to the present invention comprising a wheeled vehicle 202 and a derrick system 220 (e.g. like the derrick 120). The rig 200 has a logging and diagnostic system 210 according to the present invention which receives data from a PLC 230 (e.g. like the PLC's in the systems of Fig. 1 and Fig.
3A). The PLC 230 receives data from the various on-rig, adjacent-to-the-rig, and/or ancillary equipment which it processes and sends to the system 210. An operator communicates with the system 210 via a console 240 (e.g.
a driller's control console).
Fig. 8A shows a mast 222 of the derrick system 220 in both a lowered position ("mast lowered") and a raised position ("mast raised").
The present invention, therefore, provides in at least some embodiments, a method for well servicing operations, the method including: monitoring a parameter related to a well servicing function; displaying a value of the parameter; based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well servicing function; and correlating said value with suggested remedial action to deal with said fault. Such a method may include one or some - in any possible combination - of the following: wherein a control system with computer software controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, and an operator determines if a fault exists without accessing the computer software; wherein said correlating includes correlating said displayed value with a suggested remedial action; wherein said suggested remedial action is listed in a hard copy printed item;
wherein said suggested remedial action is displayed on a screen; wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information;
wherein a control system with computer software controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with the control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, and the method further including the display system processing the data received from the control system to produce the value of the parameter; removably installing a memory device in the display system, and transferring information related to the value of the parameter to the memory device; removing the memory device from the display system, and transferring information from the memory device to another apparatus, e.g. a computer, PLC, laptop, or desktop; wherein a control system controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with the control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, wherein when a value of a parameter is selected indicative of a fault, the display system automatically displays a suggested remedial action for dealing with the fault; wherein the control system has programmable media with computer software to facilitate control of the element of the well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, and an operator determines if a fault exists without accessing the computer software; wherein a control system controls an element of a well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, wherein said displaying is done by a display system that has a screen for displaying information, the display system in communication with the control system, the display system for receiving data from the control system related to the parameter related to the well servicing function, wherein when a value of a parameter is selected indicative of a fault and additional information about the well servicing operations is entered into the display system, the display system automatically displays a suggested remedial action for dealing with the fault; wherein the control system has programmable media with computer software to facilitate control of the element of the well servicing apparatus which provides the well servicing function, and an operator determines if a fault exists without accessing the computer software;; wherein multiple values of the parameter are displayed; wherein multiple parameters are displayed; wherein steps are performed by an operator using a touch screen; wherein the screen is a touch screen; wherein selected parameter values are displayed grouped by functionality; the display includes means for going back to at least one or multiple previous screen displays; and/or in which computers or PLC's used in the method have programmable media programmed to accomplish the appropriate function or functions.
The present invention, therefore, provides in at least some embodiments, a method for well operations, the method including monitoring at least one parameter related to a well operation function, displaying a value of the at least one parameter, based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists related to said well operation function, and correlating said value with suggested remedial action to deal with said fault.
Claims (18)
1. A method of diagnosing a fault in a non-downhole rig apparatus during well servicing operations, which method comprises the steps of:
(a) monitoring a parameter related to operation of said rig apparatus whilst controlling a well servicing function with an electronic control system;
(b) displaying a value of the parameter;
(c) based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists in said rig apparatus; and (d) if a fault is determined to exist, using said value to determine a suggested remedial action for addressing said fault, and displaying said remedial action on a screen of a display system.
(a) monitoring a parameter related to operation of said rig apparatus whilst controlling a well servicing function with an electronic control system;
(b) displaying a value of the parameter;
(c) based on said value determining in real-time if a fault exists in said rig apparatus; and (d) if a fault is determined to exist, using said value to determine a suggested remedial action for addressing said fault, and displaying said remedial action on a screen of a display system.
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein step (a) comprises electronically monitoring of said parameter.
3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said electronic control system comprises computer software for controlling an element of said rig apparatus which provides said well servicing function, and wherein step (c) is performed by computer apparatus in communication with said electronic control system whereby an operator may determine if said fault exists without accessing said computer software.
4. A method according to claim 3, wherein said computer software comprises software code, the method further comprising the step of said computer apparatus interpreting outputs from said software code when said software code is executed, whereby said fault may be discovered by said computer apparatus without an operator of said well servicing operation having to access and interpret said software code.
5. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein said display system is in communication with said electronic control system, the display system for receiving from said electronic control system data related to the parameter related to the wall servicing function, the method further comprising the step of said display system processing the data received from the control system to generate said value.
6. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising the steps of removably installing a memory device in said display system, and transferring information related to the value of the parameter to the memory device.
7. A method according to claim 6, further comprising the steps of removing said memory device from the display system, and transferring information from said memory device to another apparatus.
8. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising the steps of automatically displaying on said screen said suggested remedial action for dealing with said fault.
9. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising the steps of:
(i) receiving in said display system additional information about said well servicing function;
(ii) processing said additional information so as to generate said suggested remedial action; and (iii) displaying said suggested remedial action on said screen.
(i) receiving in said display system additional information about said well servicing function;
(ii) processing said additional information so as to generate said suggested remedial action; and (iii) displaying said suggested remedial action on said screen.
10. A method according to claim 9, wherein before step (i) said display system displays a list of potential faults on said screen and following selection of at least one of said potential faults, said display system displays said additional information on said screen, which additional information is related to said selected potential fault, and said display system awaits selection of at least one part of said additional information before proceeding to step (ii).
11. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising the step of displaying multiple values related to said parameter.
12. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising the step of displaying multiple parameters related to said well servicing function.
13. A method according to claim 11 and/or 12, further comprising the step of displaying selected parameter and/or values grouped by functionality.
14. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein said screen comprises a touch screen.
15. A method according to any of claims 1 to 14, performed in real-time with real-time displays.
16. A method of servicing a well, which method comprises the steps of:
(a) moving well servicing equipment to a well site;
and (b) employing a method according to any of claims 1 to 15 during servicing of said well.
(a) moving well servicing equipment to a well site;
and (b) employing a method according to any of claims 1 to 15 during servicing of said well.
17. An apparatus for servicing a well, which apparatus comprises a computer, such as a PLC, having a memory storing computer executable instructions for implementing a method according to any of claims 1 to 15.
18. A well service vehicle comprising an apparatus as claimed in claim 17.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US83725106P | 2006-08-11 | 2006-08-11 | |
| US60/837,251 | 2006-08-11 | ||
| US11/825,318 | 2007-07-05 | ||
| US11/825,318 US7505871B2 (en) | 2006-08-11 | 2007-07-05 | Diagnosis and troubleshooting for above-ground well systems |
| PCT/GB2007/050489 WO2008017895A1 (en) | 2006-08-11 | 2007-08-10 | Method and apparatus for well operations |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2666490A1 true CA2666490A1 (en) | 2008-02-14 |
| CA2666490C CA2666490C (en) | 2016-04-26 |
Family
ID=38668803
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2666490A Expired - Fee Related CA2666490C (en) | 2006-08-11 | 2007-08-10 | Method and apparatus for well operations |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US7505871B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2666490C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2008017895A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7848861B2 (en) * | 2007-08-23 | 2010-12-07 | Edw. C. Levy Co. | Method and apparatus for providing diagnostics of a lifting magnet system |
| US20090084558A1 (en) * | 2007-09-28 | 2009-04-02 | Robert Lewis Bloom | Electrically powered well servicing rigs |
| CN102285461B (en) * | 2011-05-24 | 2014-02-19 | 成都克伏特航空设备有限公司 | Full-automatic lifting integrated airplane service ground well |
| US9382766B2 (en) * | 2012-06-21 | 2016-07-05 | Superior Energy Services-North America Services, Inc. | Method and apparatus for working multiple wellheads in close proximity |
| WO2014078873A1 (en) | 2012-11-19 | 2014-05-22 | Key Energy Services, Llc | Tong system for tripping rods and tubulars |
| US10370939B2 (en) | 2014-07-29 | 2019-08-06 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Efficient way of reporting issues associated with reservoir operations to support team |
| CN105625957B (en) * | 2014-10-31 | 2018-07-24 | 中国石油天然气股份有限公司 | Lower oil tube method and system |
| MX2018001560A (en) | 2015-09-02 | 2018-09-26 | Halliburton Energy Services Inc | Engine and transmission notification system using a j1939 data link interface. |
Family Cites Families (37)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2581721A (en) * | 1948-09-11 | 1952-01-08 | Almond H Sherwood | Warning device for an oil well derrick |
| US2883255A (en) * | 1954-04-28 | 1959-04-21 | Panellit Inc | Automatic process logging system |
| US3102434A (en) * | 1959-10-16 | 1963-09-03 | Murphy Diesel Company | Automatic control of output reversal in slippable drives for transmitting torque |
| US3226977A (en) * | 1963-07-26 | 1966-01-04 | Shell Oil Co | Safe operating condition indicator |
| US3517553A (en) * | 1967-12-06 | 1970-06-30 | Tenneco Oil Co | Method and apparatus for measuring and controlling bottomhole differential pressure while drilling |
| US4591006A (en) | 1981-03-26 | 1986-05-27 | Chevron Research Company | Well servicing rig |
| US4477901A (en) * | 1981-11-23 | 1984-10-16 | Xerox Corporation | Directive diagnostics |
| US4636934A (en) | 1984-05-21 | 1987-01-13 | Otis Engineering Corporation | Well valve control system |
| US4724429A (en) * | 1986-03-07 | 1988-02-09 | Celanese Corporation | Diagnostic and control system for cigarette filter rod making machine |
| KR890007306A (en) | 1987-10-30 | 1989-06-19 | 제트.엘.더머 | Online valve diagnostic monitoring system |
| US5036479A (en) * | 1989-04-20 | 1991-07-30 | Trw Inc. | Modular automated avionics test system |
| US5272704A (en) * | 1989-08-18 | 1993-12-21 | General Electric Company | Method and apparatus for generation of multi-branched diagnostic trees |
| JPH04291428A (en) * | 1991-03-19 | 1992-10-15 | Hitachi Telecom Technol Ltd | Fault information display device |
| BR9303913A (en) * | 1992-09-28 | 1994-05-24 | Praxair Technology Inc | Diagnostic process for locating defects in an abnormal production condition within an industrial plant unit identified by one or more alarm or stop signals corresponding to different failure conditions affecting normal product production; and diagnostic advisory system to locate an abnormal condition in the production of a product within an industrial plant unit identified by one or more alarm or stop signals triggered by a different fault condition affecting the normal production of said product |
| US5413179A (en) | 1993-04-16 | 1995-05-09 | The Energex Company | System and method for monitoring fracture growth during hydraulic fracture treatment |
| US5711382A (en) | 1995-07-26 | 1998-01-27 | Hansen; James | Automated oil rig servicing system |
| US5988299A (en) | 1995-07-26 | 1999-11-23 | Hansen; James | Automated oil rig servicing system |
| US6408953B1 (en) | 1996-03-25 | 2002-06-25 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Method and system for predicting performance of a drilling system for a given formation |
| US6449567B1 (en) * | 1996-05-20 | 2002-09-10 | Crane Nuclear, Inc. | Apparatus and method for determining shaft speed of a motor |
| US6787758B2 (en) | 2001-02-06 | 2004-09-07 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Wellbores utilizing fiber optic-based sensors and operating devices |
| US6693553B1 (en) | 1997-06-02 | 2004-02-17 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Reservoir management system and method |
| AU742656B2 (en) | 1997-06-09 | 2002-01-10 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Control and monitoring system for chemical treatment of an oilfield well |
| US6012016A (en) | 1997-08-29 | 2000-01-04 | Bj Services Company | Method and apparatus for managing well production and treatment data |
| US6003598A (en) | 1998-01-02 | 1999-12-21 | Cancoil Technology Corporation | Mobile multi-function rig |
| US6758090B2 (en) | 1998-06-15 | 2004-07-06 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Method and apparatus for the detection of bubble point pressure |
| US6377189B1 (en) | 1999-03-31 | 2002-04-23 | Frederic M. Newman | Oil well servicing system |
| US6519568B1 (en) | 1999-06-15 | 2003-02-11 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | System and method for electronic data delivery |
| US6467340B1 (en) | 1999-10-21 | 2002-10-22 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Asphaltenes monitoring and control system |
| US6801135B2 (en) | 2000-05-26 | 2004-10-05 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Webserver-based well instrumentation, logging, monitoring and control |
| US20020007237A1 (en) * | 2000-06-14 | 2002-01-17 | Phung Tam A. | Method and system for the diagnosis of vehicles |
| US20020035551A1 (en) | 2000-09-20 | 2002-03-21 | Sherwin Rodney D. | Method and system for oil and gas production information and management |
| US6968909B2 (en) | 2002-03-06 | 2005-11-29 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Realtime control of a drilling system using the output from combination of an earth model and a drilling process model |
| US6907375B2 (en) | 2002-11-06 | 2005-06-14 | Varco I/P, Inc. | Method and apparatus for dynamic checking and reporting system health |
| US7730967B2 (en) | 2004-06-22 | 2010-06-08 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Drilling wellbores with optimal physical drill string conditions |
| US7636671B2 (en) | 2004-08-30 | 2009-12-22 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Determining, pricing, and/or providing well servicing treatments and data processing systems therefor |
| US20060095230A1 (en) * | 2004-11-02 | 2006-05-04 | Jeff Grier | Method and system for enhancing machine diagnostics aids using statistical feedback |
| US20060142910A1 (en) * | 2004-12-28 | 2006-06-29 | Snap-On Incorporated | Method for display of diagnostic procedures based on a repair technician's experience level |
-
2007
- 2007-07-05 US US11/825,318 patent/US7505871B2/en active Active
- 2007-08-10 WO PCT/GB2007/050489 patent/WO2008017895A1/en active Application Filing
- 2007-08-10 CA CA2666490A patent/CA2666490C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US7505871B2 (en) | 2009-03-17 |
| WO2008017895A1 (en) | 2008-02-14 |
| CA2666490C (en) | 2016-04-26 |
| US20080040065A1 (en) | 2008-02-14 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| CA2666490C (en) | Method and apparatus for well operations | |
| CA2519111C (en) | Distributed control system | |
| CA2675978C (en) | Method, device and system for drilling rig modification | |
| US7519475B2 (en) | Method for determining block properties of a service rig by evaluating rig data | |
| WO2019055240A1 (en) | Well construction control system | |
| US11795805B2 (en) | Well construction communication and control | |
| WO2018142173A1 (en) | Well construction using downhole communication and/or data | |
| US10487641B2 (en) | Wireless emergency stop | |
| WO2009032893A1 (en) | Method and system for governing block speed | |
| US20180359130A1 (en) | Well Construction Communication and Control | |
| US11939859B2 (en) | Performance based condition monitoring | |
| US20220282587A1 (en) | Communicating with Blowout Preventer Control System | |
| CN110809663A (en) | Well construction communication and control | |
| CN100383450C (en) | Push bench controlled by computer and its control method | |
| US20200347714A1 (en) | Communicatively Connecting a Control Workstation with Wellsite Equipment | |
| Levett | Improved Safety of Rig Automation with Remote Monitoring and Diagnostics | |
| WO2019089061A1 (en) | Control system for hydrocarbon recovery tools |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDC | Discontinued application reinstated | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20210810 |