Next Generation Well Design and Integrity Digital Tools: Boosting Drilling Systems Automation (DSA)

Abstract

The first of the next generation applications for well planning and operational support is under development. All aspects of construction, integrity, intervention and final plugging of wells are supported and fully automated into digital programs and procedures. Expanding the scope of software support entails a change from current practice of simulating all activity upfront to keep the model active and updated to supply all integrity data through production and final plugging of the well. The software is built to carry executable experience. These “digital experiences” range from the single event type often noted during operations, to complex sets of instructions in governing documentation. Experiences act as rules for how the software select methods outlined in activity plans and how these plans are executed by the equipment on drill floor. Any activity plan, e.g. drilling, completion, intervention or plug and abandonment (P&A), will be established using the entire company portfolio of experience regardless of the capacity and experience of the planning team. Engineers working with the next generation software will focus on ensuring the quality of the produced digital procedures. The software will handle administrative routines, such as invoicing and logistics, which will free up capacity for engineers. The user threshold of the next generation software will be low for any person familiar with the daily operational reporting system.