AFTI WatchDog

WatchDog is a low cost data acquisition platform used to monitor both oil wells and pipelines. WatchDog collects very simple information on location and transmits the information back to the cloud. Mathematical algorithms are then used to diagnose the information and provide the user with simple, decision quality information. From there anyone with a smart phone or a lap top with an internet connection can access the data to view the status of their wells and pipelines. Utilizing WatchDog for production assurance and environmental production allows producers to increase the ratio of oil wells per operator causing drastic reductions in costs while maintaining or increasing current production. Major producers, such as Canadian Natural Resources Ltd, see WatchDog as an effective means to combat low oil prices. At the well site WatchDog is able to provide users with the status of their oil well: Is the pump pumping, is fluid being produced, has there been a change to the fluid production, pressure trending, and photographs to ensure there is no leak on location. On pipelines WatchDog monitors lines and performs a volume balance calculation alerting producers to when there is missing production in the system. The mathematical algorithms used result in less false alarms and a higher likelihood of catching small volume leaks when flow rates are fluctuating throughout the system. Additionally, WatchDog can now interface with existing technologies in the field that communicate through MODBUS further increasing the utility of the system (eg. Variable Frequency Drives, Pump Off Controls, and Burner Management Systems). The power of the system originates from the low cost platform. From there we are able to add on additional features and are continually working with customers to develop additional WatchDog applications. The units range in price from $1,000 - $6,000 depending on which system unit and configuration of sensors are used.