Drilling Automation: Presenting a Framework for Automated Operations

Abstract

Summary This paper will present and discuss drilling automation on the basis of a "mode of automation" approach. Different modes of automation will be presented and explained. In particular, the paper will focus on how closed-loop control can enable higher modes of automation, which is essential to improve the operational and economic performance of drilling operations. Introducing a higher mode of automation may lead to optimal performance, but it also introduces new safety issues that need to be addressed in order to ensure safe conditions in the well. For each increased mode of automation, the work distribution between the automation system and the driller changes and a clear understanding of the human/ machine interaction at each mode of automation is needed.