Systems and methods for detecting steps in tubular connection processes

Abstract

In systems and methods for detecting steps in connection processes used in well operations using drilling rigs to manipulate tubular strings (such as drill strings and casing strings), sensor data gathered by data acquisition systems (such as electronic data recorders) associated with a drilling rig is analyzed to identify time intervals corresponding to specific steps constituting the complete connection process in question (such as connection make-up or connection break-out). These time intervals are compared against target or benchmark values for the corresponding process steps, thus facilitating identification of 'invisible lost time' (ILT), determination of the causes of the ILT, and determination of appropriate measures to mitigate or eliminate the causes of the ILT. These systems and methods eliminate or minimize the need for onsite data collection by human observers using stopwatches or other manual data collection means.