The complete paper describes challenges that must be overcome to reach the goal of drilling systems automation (DSA). The authors explore steps necessary to realize the full potential of performance-enhancing functionalities in automated drilling control (ADC) software, highlight current gaps, and present relatively easily achievable goals that can enable significant cost reduction and improvements in automation and safety. They also emphasize that automation is a multidisciplinary task, and that success requires collaboration between different sectors of the drilling industry.
Overview
The 19-page complete paper includes detailed technical discussion of topics ranging from the basic principles of an ADC system and practical challenges experienced with a model-based digital twin approach to suggested solutions and improvements. Each topic is divided into numerous related discussions. Because delving into each of these discussions is not possible in this synopsis, these have been outlined, with a few supporting points included for each.
The Potential of ADC Systems
Dedicated software applications—referred to by the authors as ADC systems—for protecting the well, increasing safety, automating repetitive operations, and optimizing the drilling process, have been available for some time.
