text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|May 31, 2011
|Filing date
|Jan 31, 2007
|Priority date
|Jan 31, 2006
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Michael E. Atencio, Mark A. Walsh
|Original Assignee
|Production Control Services, Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (49), Referenced by (14), Classifications (12), Legal Events (5)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This application is a non-provisional application claiming the benefits of provisional application No. 60/763,590 filed Jan. 31, 2006.
The present apparatus relates to an improved well control system comprising hardware devices, software and firmware for automatically adjusting production parameters based on real time data to facilitate and optimize production in a system comprising multiple hydrocarbon wells. More specifically, the improved control system could comprise at least one master well multi-controller in communication with one or more slave well controllers, one or more electronic flow measurement devices and an application host, wherein the system regulates and tracks data derived from one or more gas wells in a pressurized well system.
Gas and oil well production efficiency can depend on various well parameters such as depth and natural well gas pressure. Fluid comprising salt water and oil may accumulate during production in a well bottom. Its presence and buildup within the well can inhibit production and, accordingly, should be removed. Operators may use a technique such as plunger lift to unload the fluid buildup and thus increase the productivity of oil and gas wells.
A plunger system is a method of unloading gas wells and high gas/liquid ratio hydrocarbon wells without interrupting production. In operation, the plunger travels to the bottom of the well where the fluid is picked up by the plunger, acting as a swab, and is brought to the surface removing liquids in the tubing. A plunger also keeps the tubing free of paraffin, salt or scale build-up. Fluid removal prevents well loading, and thus keeps the well from "dying." This type of system utilizes gas present within the well as a system driver.
A well system manager (hereinafter also referred to as an operator) may have many wells under its supervision. Although in some cases, an individual may be present at a well site, the present apparatus contemplates a reduction of manpower needed to monitor and service the system. Any one or more of these multiple wells may utilize a plunger lift system. A multiple well facility is generally known as a location where more than one well and/or associated production equipment are located, where some or all production equipment is shared by more than one well, or where wellstreams from more than one well are routed through individual production trains located at the same or contiguous and adjacent location. Rather than install separate facilities for each well, well system managers seek to combine or "share" stock tank storage, meter runs, separation facilities and/or compressor stations. In addition to the complexity of managing multiple individual wells each potentially owned by a different investor, the sharing of production equipment could create a number of challenges for a well system manager. Some challenges could include ensuring accurate allocation measurements and minimizing occurrences that could lead to "bottlenecking". In addition, operators are challenged to ensure that each well (and its associated investor) has a fair opportunity to produce for a period of time.
Inaccuracies in allocating gas to an appropriate investor and/or the non-production of a well could have detrimental and costly effects. Bottlenecking can result in under-utilization of shared facilities and/or exceedances. A flow cycle comprises the time a well is turned on to the time it is turned off. Former practices often involved synchronizing multiple wells by having an operator gauge each well's production by physically and tediously recording each cycle time. In addition, mechanized synchronization centered on time-based algorithms that operated on individual controllers with no common link, requiring the well operator to continue to ensure no overlapping of wells. In some cases, because of asymmetrical production rates, the production rate of one well may impede that of its neighboring wells. Without a balanced synchronization, routine inconsistencies encountered by a well system manager during production, such as pressure buildups, pipeline pressures, non-arrival of plungers, etc., can create unnecessary downtime and loss of production. In addition, asymmetrical production from a group of wells can cause the weaker wells to stay off. To enhance and/or optimize efficiency of a multiple well facility, a well system manager may desire a method of controlling and analyzing multiple well data and multiple plungers. The present apparatus can provide multi-well control and product management by means of a master controller and allows for a more balanced synchronization of wells and well cycle times.
The present apparatus can provide an automated, distributed control system for controlling and operating multiple hydrocarbon production wells. The disclosed multi-well controller system (MWCS) can allow an operator to remotely access, monitor, and control one or more slave controllers from a centrally located master controller. Specifically, an operator can access control features, plunger histories, and production data by means of a keypad display terminal located on a multi-well controller (MWC), a local operator interface port or through any remote work station having connectivity to the MWC, e.g., an application host sub-system (AHSS), or even a serially connected laptop, etc. A workstation can be either connected directly to a host server or remote node connected to a Wide Area Network (WAN). For example, an operator can read plunger history data from an MWC from a computer mounted in a field vehicle. The truck-mounted MWC is presented by example, and not of limitation; various embodiments are possible.
A MWC may be integrated with an AHSS, one or more electronic flow measurement (EFM) devices, and individual slave wellhead controllers (SWC). With appropriate software, the AHSS can allow a user to view various data derived from a well or a group of wells and direct real-time well control, monitoring and data analysis. For example, the AHSS may track and record flow data and/or a plunger's history at a well and signal the well to open/close (turn on/off) based on data received. In addition, the AHSS may signal for a flow rate change. Although these features are discussed, various other configurations and capabilities are possible. The MWCS can comprise field upgradeable firmware via a code module program chip, about 1 MB or more of data storage that is typically viable for about 30 to about 45 days, and communication via Modicon Modbus protocol. Wired or wireless controls and remote I/O modules can be employed. Data monitoring and exchange can also occur by means of radio and/or modem communication if desired.
This system can also provide a flexible means for grouping wells and/or synchronizing wells based on production characteristics. Typically each group comprises one or more wells physically tied together at a juncture prior to a gas-fluid separator. With the disclosed system, an operator can categorize well groups by well production levels. In addition to allowing an operator to group low producing wells having shorter cycle intervals together to maximize a sequential production of the grouped wells, the MWC can also regulate higher producers by assigning them to any particular group. For example, an operator can determine whether a strong well is required to wait for other weaker wells to finish a cycle before the strong well goes on-line. Wells may be categorized by various other criteria. For example, producers that may not be on a plunger lift could be assigned as the only well within a group. In addition to helping a user form various well combinations, the present apparatus can be used to group meter runs and/or EFMs so gas production can be synchronized within respective groups. Such unit groupings can be a dynamic tool for allocating production and for customizing well operation and optimization. Although these features are discussed, the disclosed configurations are presented by example, and not of limitation; various groupings and synchronizations are possible.
As stated above, a flow cycle comprises the time a well is turned on to the time it is turned off. Individualized optimization settings or "set points" can be set up for each well depending on a well's natural characteristics and/or other criteria and by using any of the supported production methods based on time, pressure, and flow. A set point is an internal control that can be used to determine when an overload could occur, and when a system should be held back. Thus, the disclosed system can allow for wells to be synchronized in such a way that individual wells or groups of wells can be turned on or off by simply monitoring the well's characteristics. The MWCS can hold a successor well back and allow a well with the longest "closed" or "shut in" period to cycle. The MWCS thus evens out the well cycle times to minimize gaps in production. Because of automation and effective management of data, the present apparatus can also help to reduce manpower needed to monitor and service the system and allow personnel to be allocated to other areas.
Typically, well production records can only be generated for one well at a time and by means of an EFM specifically assigned to that well. In short, each well is equipped with its own EFM device. With the present apparatus, an operator may designate any EFM device for a well. Thus, individual production records for a well can be maintained by a designated EFM device. In addition, multiple wells can be routed through any designated EFM.
Not only can the MWCS gather information such as flow rate and flow line pressure (PL) from one or more EFM devices, gas flow volumes, temperature and differential and static pressure can also be measured and/or recorded. Other data including, but not limited to, tubing pressure (PT), casing pressure (PC), valve opening/closing, plunger arrival time, etc. can be acquired as well. Any data derived by the present apparatus may be sorted, grouped, and otherwise used or managed by an operator as desired. In addition, the application software provides for easily understood graphics and report flexibility and accessibility.
The MWC can track well production during each flow cycle and/or until the succeeding well is turned on. By communicating with one or more EFMs, the MWCS also has the capability to track and store raw data accompanied with time stamped events, reason codes with analysis, and gas volumes produced by each well regardless of groupings. All well controller changes and well status records can be kept in permanent files for future reference and record keeping. An operator can allocate gas by well even if multiple wells are routed through one EFM and/or meter run. The MWCS can continue to operate if communication between one or more EFMs is damaged/broken.
With the present apparatus, a MWC can determine the integrity of a communication link between a master and slave. The MWC can signal any one or more SWCs to respond to verify the integrity of a communication link. If a communication link is damaged/broken, an SWC may not respond. The MWC could then perform a number of verification tests to determine a communication status. If the MWC is unable to confirm a communication link, any one or more SWCs can proceed under a default program. For example, a SWC may be able to operate based on its last set of input commands. In some cases, the system continues to produce with the well's available set points.
As stated above, operators can experience inaccuracies in allocating gas to an appropriate investor. These inaccuracies can be caused by asymmetrical production from a group of wells. For example, a strong well can usually yield a high rate of product and may fight other wells that attempt to turn on. In some cases, a strong well could impede production from a weaker well. Where multiple wells operate simultaneously but with extremely high and low production ranges, a meter may not be able to read the total of volume that is actually produced because it has been "pegged." The methodology discussed herein evens out the cycle times (so weaker wells can turn on) and reduces the likelihood for meter pegging. By reading virtually all of the metered flow volume, the present apparatus can facilitate a more accurate allocation of gas by identity of well. In addition, meter damage can be reduced.
The sharing of meter runs, tankage, separation and compressor facilities can create bottlenecking challenges. Bottlenecking typically occurs when gas wells load up with liquid and production proceeds on an intermittent basis, either with or without plunger lift, instead of on an optimum continuous flow basis. On an intermittent basis, extremely high and low production ranges can be experienced. In addition, there may be periods of equipment under-utilization if a well must be completely shut in to allow a pressure buildup. For example, if a well group has an 18-hour total production period in a 24-hour period, with several wells producing at the same time, and no production during the remaining 6 hours, a compressor can potentially be idle for a 6-hour period. During such an underload situation, a compressor may also fail because of low suction and high temperature occurrences. Thus, bottlenecking can result in lost use of infrastructure and lost labor time; production efficiency drops. On the other hand, during the 18-hour production rate, any exceedances could damage the compressor, especially in a high suction situation, also resulting in system down time.
Potential problems can also be encountered by a separator. Using the same 18-hour production and 6-hour downtime example, the high instantaneous production rate during the 18-hour period could cause the separator to foul. In addition, oil and water may emulsify undesirably in stock tanks, causing the emulsions to require treatment prior to hauling. Further, unwanted oil/water may be forced into a dry gas sales line, which could result in penalties to the well system manager. Without an efficient method of synchronizing the cycle times, facility sharing can present challenges. Through balanced well synchronization, the present apparatus can optimize intermittent production of multiple wells and reduce overloads and potential under-utilizations, resulting in efficient usage of shared flow lines, shared production facilities, and measurement equipment.
Thus, the MWCS comprises a MWC capable of interfacing and communicating with one or more wireless slave controllers each receiving and recording EFM data from individual wells, wherein each of the slave controllers may send specified well data to the MWC. An operator can utilize the system to combine one or more wells into one or more groups depending on any variety of data derived from individual wells, and thus synchronize the one or more wells to optimize production through various algorithms. In addition, an operator can utilize the system to track a variety of data derived from individual wells. For example, an operator may desire to track and record gas volumes produced by each well independent of its well grouping. As another example, an operator may desire to track a total flow volume from a well grouping in order to allocate a particular flow volume to an individual well. Based on system data, an operator may be able to control and optimize a cycle time for each well, turning the well on/off based on data received. Not only can the system be integrated with existing infrastructure if necessary, the MWCS can comprise field ready and user-friendly keyboard functionality.
These and other features and advantages of the disclosed apparatus reside in the construction of parts and the combination thereof, the mode of operation and use, as will become more apparent from the following description, reference being made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views. The embodiments and features thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which are meant to exemplify and to illustrate, not being limiting in scope.
Before explaining the disclosed embodiments in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in application to the details of the particular arrangements shown, since other embodiments are possible. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
The disclosed apparatus can regulate and track various functions and data derived from multiple gas wells in at least one pressurized well system. One or more high pressure hydrocarbon wells can comprise a plunger lift system for unloading gas.
A lubricator assembly 10 comprises a cap 1, an integral top bumper spring 2, a striking pad 3, and an extracting rod 4. Extracting rod 4 may or may not be employed depending on the plunger type. For example, an extracting rod may not be required for various embodiments of the present apparatus. Lubricator assembly 10 houses a plunger auto catching device 5 and a plunger sensing device 6. A surface controller 15, which opens and closes the well at the surface, typically receives a signal from plunger sensing device 6 upon plunger 200 arrival at the well top. A plunger's arrival at the well top can be used as an indicator of how to optimize a desired well production, flow times, wellhead operating pressures, etc. A master valve 7 should be sized correctly for the tubing 9 and plunger 200. An incorrectly sized master valve 7 could prevent plunger 200 from passing. For example, master valve 7 could incorporate a full bore opening equal to tubing 9 size. An oversized valve could also cause gas to bypass the plunger, causing the plunger to stall in the valve. If the plunger is to be used in a well with relatively high formation pressures, care should be taken to balance tubing 9 size with the casing 8 size.
The bottom of a well is typically equipped with a seating nipple/tubing stop 12. In
Surface control equipment usually comprises motor valve(s) 14, sensors 6, pressure recorders 16, etc., and electronic surface controller 15. Fluid flow proceeds downstream in direction 'F' when surface controller 15 opens well head flow valves. Depending on the application, controllers can operate on time or pressure to open or close the surface valves based on operator-determined requirements for production. Thus, if desired, the present apparatus can employ modem electronic controllers that incorporate user friendly and easy to program interfaces, although mechanical controllers and other electronic controllers could be chosen as well. The present apparatus can also be integrated with controllers that feature battery life extension through solar panel recharging, computer memory program retention in the event of battery failure and built-in lightning protection. For complex operating conditions, controllers having multiple valve capability to fully automate the production process can be utilized.
Well controllers can use real time data derived from casing, tubing and sales line pressure transducers, which are readily found in the art, to optimize well production. One example of such a controller is the PCS 3000 Controller™, which can automatically adjust to deliver optimum flow and production rates based on real time data. Feedback from casing, tubing and sales line pressure transducers allows the well to flow until the well begins to load. The controller device can use sales line, tubing and casing pressure differential to begin each cycle and casing pressure to shut-in. The controller device can also offer time input if required. Unlike auto-adjusting time controllers, an operator can use real time pressure information to directly manage gas production and fluid entry for each cycle. The PCS 3000 Controller™ is presented by example, and not of limitation; other suitable well controllers can be employed.
The present apparatus can be used to manage multiple wells and facilitate the sharing of meter runs, tankage and facilities.
One embodiment of MWC 30 comprises a motherboard microprocessor and a daughter board for added connectivity. An EFM translator board, a remote I/O wired or wireless general purpose board, a general purpose Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) board, a communication hub sharing board, and a keypad display terminal can be employed. A Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) software package can be positioned on top of hardware to which it is interfaced, in general via Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), or other commercial hardware modules. The motherboard can incorporate field upgradeable firmware. In addition, the disclosed motherboard contemplates communication via Modicon Modbus protocol; however, any interface could be used if desired. The present apparatus also contemplates a communication interface for RS232 and RS485 communication, and components capable of allowing TR485 communication with an EFM using the EFM's proprietary protocol or Modbus. An EFM translator board can also allow controllers to retrieve a user-specified list of values from the EFM and can act as a communications firewall to ensure safety and integrity of EFM data and settings.
Any remote I/O wired or wireless general purpose board and general purpose RTU board can be determined to be suitable by those of skill in the art. However, the disclosed apparatus contemplates a configuration with low power consumption that can operate on 6V or 12V battery. In addition, the general purpose boards should comprise a communication port to support RS485 or an optional radio communications module, Modbus or custom protocol, and field upgradeable firmware with custom RTU firmware available. In addition to facilitating the management of multiple wells with one master controller, the disclosed remote I/O board can be used for remote general purpose I/O, such as monitoring a tank battery. This board can greatly enhance gas and oil well point of delivery (POD) configurations in terms of facility throughput and compression efficiency.
As stated above, all disclosed communication links may be wireless or hard wired (typically RS485). The disclosed RTU board features an optional wireless radio communication module, built in I/O, expandable I/O, and the ability to perform remote I/O from another RTU board or another remote I/O board. In addition to running custom programs for well control, the disclosed RTU board can also perform general purpose I/O.
A MWC is capable of interfacing and communicating with one or more slave well controllers each receiving and recording data from individual wells. In addition to transmitting data to the MWC, a slave well controller (SWC) can also receive data from the MWC. In one embodiment, a SWC comprises a microprocessor connected to one or more analog wellhead pressure sensors, at least one plunger sensor, and one or more digital latch valves for motor valve control. As discussed herein, SWCs can also comprise software that can allow operation of the well semi-independently or autonomously in case of equipment failure at the MWC. Alternately, a well can also continue to operate if the integrity of the communication from the MWC is comprised. A SWC may also communicate with the MWC to signal for and to expedite field repairs.
The MWC can be connected to slaves by any standard industry means. For example, depending on design criteria, a system designer may incorporate hard wire connections or the master-slave connection can be realized remotely by means of radio frequency. Regarding master-slave communication, any standard industry interface, such as Modbus RTU mode, can be used. Modbus devices can communicate using a master-to-slave chain of command, whereby a master may address an individual slave and/or broadcast a command to more than one slave. Thus, SWCs receive information from the MWC. In one embodiment, the MWC and the SWCs each have 2048 registers in their maps. The register format us 16 bit Modicon. The communications format is RS232 at 9600, N, 8, 1.
Each SWC may recognize if, and when, a communication link with its MWC is compromised as a result of weather, maintenance, etc. In the disclosed system, each SWC can operate a well semi-independently or autonomously based on its electronic files in order to maintain well production. For example, a SWC can determine its last cycle time and/or the allocated time slot for the well. If a well cycle time is, e.g., 30 minutes and the allocated time slot for that well is, e.g., every 4 hours, the SWC can proceed accordingly. The MWC can, in turn, record reiterative SWC behavior which may signal an operator that a communication or equipment failure has occurred.
An operator maintains a synchronized clock on each SWC and the MWC. For each well, the MWC uses previous well performance in a group to generate a schedule documenting the actual time of day that each well is to open and shut in. Each time a well closes, the MWC checks that it still has communications with each well. Based on the reciprocal communication, the MWC may revise the schedule for the group and send the new schedule out to each well.
If a communication loss between the master and any or all of the wells in a group occurs, any or all of the wells may begin running on a new schedule assuming that well conditions allow each to open. If a well opens late due to the conditions of the well, that well may have an abbreviated cycle time since it may be scheduled to close at a certain time. If a well is ready to open and opens on schedule, the well may shut in based on either the clock or the condition of the well. There may even be periods during which no wells are flowing. However, if a MWC has maintained communications with a remainder of SWCs in a particular grouping, the MWC can continue to select the next well that is ready to open as usual.
The MWC could keep another well from opening during the period that the non-communicating well is scheduled to be open. During that period, the MWC can monitor the accumulated flow from the EFM associated with the non-communicating well. If the MWC detects no flow during two consecutive periods, it can be designed to assume the non-communicating well is down. The MWC can then remove the downed well from the schedule so that the remaining wells in the group are no longer prevented from operating.
As stated above, an EFM can measure and/or record data such as flow rate, PL, PT, PC, and temperature. Various data extracted from the EFMs can be used to determine the duration that a well is shut in and the duration that the well is producing (the sales time). For example, a well may be instructed to seek a variety of data during its shut in time. When a condition or conditions are met, the well will turn on. One embodiment could comprise a system which seeks data such as shut in time, differential pressure, ratio of PT to PL, the ratio of PC to PL, the ratio of PT to PC and/or load factor (LF). LF is known as ((PC−PT)/(PC−PL).) In other cases, a well may be instructed to seek a variety of data during its sales time. When a condition or conditions are met, the well will shut in. One embodiment could comprise a system which seeks data such as shut in time, critical flow rate, case pressure rise, high line pressure, and low line pressures. Thus, a well operator could use a variety of well parameters to determine a well's set points. EFMs can also measure and/or record gas flow volumes. From EFM data, an operator can perform calculations to optimize a flow time or a sales time for each well based upon variables such as flow rate and static pressure.
Any third party EFM device capable of data extraction may be integrated with the present apparatus. Although each EFM can typically be hard wired, any means of communicating data therefrom can be employed. For example, a serial wireless communication from an EFM to a MWC may be a feasible choice. If an operator intends for an EFM to monitor meter run, each EFM can be designed to monitor one or more meter runs in close proximity to the EFM or within the same physical structure.
If communication is lost between an EFM and its MWC, the system can continue based on the set points that it can still establish. Even if pressure data is unavailable, a system can revert to time and the ratio of PT to PC. Modbus registers are typically polled for information for use in an audit trail. If an EFM is lost, its contract measurement data can be left intact.
In the present apparatus, the MWC can send data and receive input from an AHSS. Thus, an operator can utilize the MWC to take various desired actions. For example, an operator can issue an alarm code to the AHSS if necessary. In some cases, an operator may request that an AHSS override previously set commands. For example, by means of the host, an operator can override a well's set points and manually control a well's cycle time. This can be useful in cases where an operator needs to perform localized maintenance, for example. By overriding the system via the host, an operator can easily lock out the system so maintenance can take place. In addition to communicating with one or more MWCs, an AHSS could be used to store historical data by well, if desired. Not only can an AHSS communicate to an application server as shown in
As shown, EFM 21 monitors meter run 50 and tracks and/or records group 71 data. MWC 30 is shown to be in a wireless communication R11 with SWC 61, 62, wherein R represents a communication sent from MWC 30 to one or more SWCs. An EFM 22 monitors a meter run 51 and tracks and/or records group 72 data; an EFM 23 monitors a meter run 52 and tracks and/or records group 73 data; an EFM 24 monitors a meter run 53 and tracks and/or records group 74 data. In this example, data from each SWC is transmitted to MWC 30 by means of wireless links R11, R12, R13, R14 and to AHSS 40 by means of a wireless link 31R.
EFM1 21 and the eight or more SWCs can exchange information with the respective MWC1 31. An operator can utilize this data to synchronize the individual well cycles. Through MWC1 31, an operator can command each slave controller to designate its respective well with a dynamic time slot based on a variety of well data. For example, well production history and current well data information could be used to calculate a unique sequence in which a well's slave controller will signal its respective well to turn on. This type of dynamic response capability can be useful especially in the case where a slave controller loses communication with an MWC. As stated above, an operator could calculate the unique well sequence with the present apparatus. For example, an operator could assign a priority to a well having the longest shut in period. In this case, the MWC signals each slave to allow that well to open and operate for a particular cycle time.
As stated above, MWC1 31 is shown in a hard-wired 30H communication with EFM1 21, EFM2 22. AHSS 40 is shown in wireless communication 31R with MWC1 31. If desired, AHSS 40 can communicate with one or more MWCs (see 32R), represented by MWC1 32. If, and when, an MWC fails, AHSS 40 can be designed to recognize a communication loss. Since it also records EFM data, it can make adjustments so that it can perform any necessary tasks, such as allocating gas.
In this example, slave wellhead controller 61, 62, 63 comprise group 71. SWC 64, 65 comprise group 72; SWC 66, 67 comprise group 73 and SWC 68 comprises its own group 74. Production flow from groups 71, 72, 73, 74 is metered by means of meter runs 50, 51, 52, 54, respectively. As shown, EFM 21 monitors meter runs 50, 51, 52, 54 and thus, tracks and/or records data from groups 71, 72, 73, 74. EFM 21 is shown respectively hard wired 1W, 2W, 3W, 4W to each meter run 50, 51, 52, 54 as is usually done when an EFM and a meter run are in close proximity. Data is transmitted to MWC 30 by means of wireless link 30R.
Table 1 describes an algorithm for determining operation hierarchy within well groups so multiple wells can be synchronized. From the Modbus configuration registers, an operator can configure a list of wells in a group. Configuration can take place when a system is initially powered up or at any time an operator desires a change in well grouping. During these times, well priorities can be set by default to well number order with the exception of any open wells remaining at the bottom of the priority list. For the purpose of selecting the next well to open in a group, an operator will categorize a well as "closed" (well is shut-in and not ready to open), "ready" (well is shut-in but conditions are such that is ready to open or "open" (well is flowing).
Group I
Group II
Group III
Well 1
Well 4
Well 7
Well 2
Well 5
Well 8
Well 3
Well 6
#3 open
#3 open
#2 open
#3 open
#3 open
#3 open
#3 open
#3 open
#2 open
Table 1 is an example applied to 8 wells that are configured into 3 groups. Group 1 comprises Well 1, Well 4, and Well 7. Group 2 comprises Well 2, Well 5, and Well 8. Group 3 comprises Well 3 and Well 6. The priority for a well is assigned a numeric value of #1 through #8 (or #1 through the number of wells in the group). At start up, Wells 1, 4, and 7 are "ready." Well 2 and Well 3 are "closed". Well 5 and Well 6 are "ready".
In addition to monitoring various well parameters, the master controller detect which well is on. In this embodiment, if all of the wells are closed or ready, the master controller will scan the list of wells in each group once every 10 seconds. The MWC will test the wells having a #1 priority first to determine if the designated well is ready to open. If that well is not ready to open, the MWC will check the well with the next lowest priority, e.g., #2, to see if that designated well is ready to open. The MWC reads through the list until all the wells have been tested or it has found a well ready to open.
To illustrate, when Group 1 is scanned, Well 1 which was assigned #1 priority, is ready to open. Thus, it will be opened and then assigned the lowest number on the priority list for the group, e.g. #3. Well 4 then is assigned #1 priority, signifying that it will be the next well to turn if it is ready to open. Well 7 then is assigned #2 priority. When Group 2 is scanned, the MWC determines that Well 2 is not ready to open. Well 5 then is tested. Because Well 5 is ready, it will be opened and then assigned the lowest number on the priority list for the group, e.g. #3. Well 5 is moved to the bottom of the priority list for Group 2. Well 2 maintains its status in Group 2 as the well having the highest priority, signifying that it will be the next well to turn if it is ready to open. Well 8 then is assigned #2 priority. When Group 3 is scanned, the MWC determines that Well 3 is not ready to open. The MWC then tests and opens Well 6. Because there are only 2 wells in Group 3, Well 6 remains at the bottom of the priority list for that group. By moving the well that is currently open to the bottom of the priority list and moving the other wells up in the list, the MWC automatically gives the wells that have been shut in the longest the highest priority.
Assume that after 30 minutes Well 1 continues to flow and Well 5 and Well 6 both shut in. The status of Group 1's priority and well readiness remains as is. In Groups 2 and 3, Wells 5 and 6 are now closed. When Group 1 is scanned, the MWC detects an open well. The MWC allows the well to continue producing; there is no change in the priorities for Group 1. When Group 2 is scanned, the MWC determines that there are no open wells. Because Well 2 holds the highest priority, it is checked first. However, it is not ready to open. Well 8 then is tested. Because Well 8 is ready, it will be opened and then assigned the lowest number on the priority list for the group, e.g. #3. Well 5, which previously held the #3 priority, is moved up in priority to #2. When Group 3 is scanned, the MWC determines that there are no open wells. In addition, there are no wells that are deemed to be ready. Therefore, there is no change in the priorities for Group 3.
Some period later Well 1 shuts in. Thus, when Group 1 is scanned, Well 4 will be opened because it is ready, and then assigned the lowest number on the priority list for the group, e.g. #3. The remaining wells in Group 1 will then be shifted up in priority. When Group 2 is scanned, the MWC detects that Well 8 is open. Because the MWC detects an open well, it will allow the well to continue producing; there is no change in the priorities for Group 2.
The pressures build rapidly on Well 5 and Well 6. They are again ready to open. Assume that just before the controller scans to open a well at time Y, the priority and well readiness is set forth at a time of about t=Y−10.
At t=Y, the MWC scans the groups to see if new wells need to be opened. Because Groups 1 and 2 each have an open well in each group, the MWC will allow the respective wells to continue producing; there is no change in the priorities for Groups 1 and 2. When Group 3 is scanned, the MWC determines that Well 3 (#1 priority) is not ready to open. Well 6 is then tested and is allowed to open. Well 6 will retain its low priority for Group 3.
At some point t=Z−10, Well 4 will shut in. Because Well 7 has been shut in for the longest period of time of the Group 1 wells, the MWC will allow it to open when Well 4 shuts in. In Group 2, there are two wells that could be ready to open. Because Well 2 has been shut in for the longest period of time in Group 2, the MWC will open it next when Well 8 shuts in. In Group 3, Well 6 can continue operating essentially independently (opening and closing as well conditions permit) as long as Well 3 does not come ready. When Well 3 becomes ready to open, it will open immediately if Well 6 happens to be closed. If, however, Well 6 is open at the time that Well 3 becomes ready, Well 3 will open as soon as Well 6 closes.
These groupings and well readiness determinations are presented by example to illustrate the adaptability of the MWCS to various well characteristics, and not of limitation; various embodiments are possible. An operator may configure and re-configure the well synchronization strategy as desired.
As stated above, operators are challenged to ensure that each well has a fair opportunity to achieve a sales time. In some cases, a well may not have produced in its normal time slot for a few iterations. The present apparatus and methodology can be used to assign a low or lower producing well a top hierarchy among the various wells.
Well system managers are tasked with properly allocating product to an owner/investor. Standard industry practices involve apportioning a percent of gas determined from an overall measurement and a baseline well test. In some cases, an overall measurement may not reconcile with the baseline test, which could result in significant errors in allocation. During production, gas/oil from a well flows from the wellhead, through a flow line and across a metered orifice plate. When the well is closed at the wellhead, higher pressured gas/oil contained between the wellhead and orifice plate will continue to flow "downstream" and cross the orifice plate in the meter run. Thus, production can commingle with production from a successor well if the successor well turns on while the predecessor gas is still trying to clear the orifice plate. In some cases this may not be an issue, especially if line pressures downstream of the orifice plate are not significantly lower than the upstream well lateral pressures. If there is a problem with this "unassigned gas" being improperly allocated to successor wells, there are two additional, selectable options for the operator. Option #1 simply allocates all gas to the predecessor well until the successor well turns on. The successor may not be allowed to turn on until gas flow through the respective orifice plate has diminished to a low, programmable set-point in the MWC. This "low flow" set-point is also a selectable subset contained within option #1. Option #2 simply allocates any gas that was measured between the time that the predecessor well turns off and successor well turns on to a "phantom" or an "9th" well. A 9th phantom well is presented to illustrate gas assignment/allocation in a well grouping comprising 8 wells. In configurations having fewer or more than 8 wells, the phantom well is not necessarily deemed to be the "9th well." For example, a well grouping may comprises 100 wells. The "phantom" well is simply an allocation of any gas that was measured between the time that a predecessor well turns off and a successor well turns on. Gas production assigned to the "phantom well can be manually reallocated at the end of the contract period based the % that each well contributes to the sum of the group. The present apparatus allows well system managers to more fairly apportion product to an owner/investor. With the MWCS, any one or more investors may choose to allocate its share of product to a well based on current history data. Typically, the gas is allocated to the predecessor well. In addition, the present apparatus allows for the allocation of product to a "phantom" well so that the product can later be distributed.
While a number of exemplifying features and embodiments have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and subcombinations thereof. No limitation with respect to the specific embodiments disclosed herein is intended or should be inferred. Other alternate embodiments of the present apparatus could easily be employed by those skilled in the art to achieve the multiple well control functions of the present apparatus. It is to be understood that additions, deletions, and changes may be made to the system's hardware, software, firmware and various internal and external functions disclosed herein, including but not limited to well configuration and field equipment, and still fall within the true spirit and scope of the multiple well control system.
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|U.S. Classification
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|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Jan 31, 2007
Owner name: PRODUCTION CONTROL SERVICES, INC., COLORADO
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Owner name: PRODUCTION CONTROL SERVICES, INC., COLORADO
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|Aug 4, 2008
Owner name: GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS ADMINISTR
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Effective date: 20070326
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Owner name: PRODUCTION CONTROL SERVICES, INC., COLORADO
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Effective date: 20120425
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Owner name: PCS FERGUSON, INC., COLORADO
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Effective date: 20130701


text:
Summer time in The Central Valley of California is well know for its high heat temperatures! But it has another hidden source of heat that is year round, Patrick Contreras on his smoking hot Violin!
Patrick is filling seats at local venues with more and more new fans with each gig! and… Hes reaching a very musically diverse group of listeners. "This is very exciting to us here at Blues-E-News Magazine, because this is growing the listener base for the blues to a new generation! Patrick is down in the trenches converting new fans to the blues one listener at a time!"~Wayne Rinehart Managing Editor and Publisher of Blues-E-News
Take a listen to these two videos We think they are great.
Patrick is working on branching out of his local Scene of Fresno and surrounding cities this year. The desire of course is to get more opportunities and grow his fan base.. But we dont see him having any troubles achieving this.. What do you think?
Patrick and his group "Violins On Fire"

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The directions to Hakuba House took us along expressways, tiny streets, black wing-tipped castles, snow-dusted valleys, all the way along known and unknown roads to Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture. We bisected the five-hour drive with a stopover at Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto City. It's the second-oldest castle in Japan and is more than 500 years old! The black siding and traditional winged eves give it the nickname 'crow castle.' Really, really cool! Ice everywhere and abundant water meant someone was bound to suggest a 15-second challenge. Success!We knew we were in Hakuba when the van stopped making forward progress…so we stopped and the guys put on the snow chains. We checked in and skied over to the slopes. By the time we all scrambled uncoordinatedly through the fresh powder the lift was only open for another hour. Should we buy a two day ticket for about $85 just so we can go up once this evening?? What to do…what to do….then we saw a sign. Single lift tickets are only 400 yen. So instead of a 3800 yen afternoon lift ticket, or an all-day 5200 yen ticket, we can pay as we go for way less. A perfect solution, given how long it takes us to get down the mountain!! And a fine time was had by all!
Reader Interactions
Really cute matching snowsuits that you and Hannie are wearing!! Did you rent or borrow them?
Matsumoto is one of my favorite places–so laid back! Did you do a tour of the castle? Glad you had a great time!!!


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Rooms Number: 109
B-dul 21 decembrie 1989 67 - 400124 - Cluj-Napoca, Romania View Map
The welcoming hotel is only 10 minutes drive from the Cluj-Napoca International Airport and 10 minutes walk from the old town. It offers modern rooms, business facilities, a lounge and fitness centre. Free Wi-Fi and free private parking are available.The city center and touristic sites - St. Michael's Catholic Church, Matthias Rex, Botanical Garden - are several minutes away and there is a range of business centers within walking distance.
TripAdvisor vote: 4.5/5 Based on 421 guest reviews
Rooms Number: 109
The Hotel Hampton By Hilton Cluj-Napoca is perfect for who wants to travel by car. The hotel offers a relaxing bar to enjoy your evening. The Hotel Hampton By Hilton Cluj-Napoca offers disabled facilities.
The hotel provides either its own car park or a nearby one with a special agreement; being not included in the room price, for a paid parking the payment have to be carried out directly on the spot.
The rooms of the Hotel Hampton By Hilton Cluj-Napoca offer a fast internet connection. Accommodation has a safe in all the rooms. The accommodation offers a radio service for its guests.
Str. Octavian Goga, nr. 1
Distance from the hotel: 1103 m
price from US$ 76
Ciocarliei 47 street
Distance from the hotel: 1188 m
price from US$ 74
Str. V. Babeş nr. 35
Distance from the hotel: 1245 m
price from US$ 88
Calea Turzii Nr.48
Distance from the hotel: 223 m
price from US$ 43


text:
Interview with Clayton Smith
Clayton Smith has had a fair bit of success on amazon with his quirky small-town sci-fi. He kindly answered a few question for us.
1. Your work has been described as a cross between Peter Clines & Stephen King (by me!). Is this a fair assessment? If not, how would you describe your work?
To be honest, I've never read Peter Clines, so I can't say! I do think there are definitely Stephen King-like elements in a lot of my work, and if I had to describe my work, I'd probably say most of my books read like a combination of King and Terry Pratchett, with the occasional Neil Gaiman thrown in.
2 Tell us about your latest book.
My most recent book is Na Akua, which is the story of a mainlander who goes to Hawaii, falls in love with a mysterious woman who's not quite what she seems, and becomes embroiled in a wild adventure with the gods of Hawaiian mythology (Pele, Maui, and the whole gang). It's fun, it's funny, it's fast-paced, and it's really steeped in Hawaiian culture and myth. It's the first book in a series, and I'm looking to publish the next book this year!
3. Who do you enjoy reading? Which writers inspire your work?
I like to read whatever I can get my hands on. The last book I read was One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, finally, and I was absolutely blown away by it. My biggest inspirations throughout my life have probably been Gaiman, Roald Dahl, Louis Sachar, Vonnegut, and Steinbeck.
4, Do you plan out your books, or make them up as you go?
I do a little bit of both. I hammer out a general outline, and sometimes I make that outline pretty detailed, but usually I leave a lot of room for exploration within the story. I love it when I don't know how any given tale is going to go. To me, that's one of the most fun parts about writing, just letting your story take on a life of its own and show you where it decides to go.
5. I'm interested in the process of writing…what does a typical writing day look like for you?
I'm not sure I really have a typical writing day, though I find that I write best in the mornings, so I usually like to wake up early, put on some coffee or head down to the local coffee shop, and hammer out a few pages before the day starts. Then I sort of steal away writing time whenever I can…on the train, while dinner's in the oven, right before I go to sleep, whenever I can.
6. Did you grow up reading science fiction and fantasy?
I actually didn't read too much of sci-fi and fantasy growing up. The closest I probably got was R. L. Stine. I absolutely loved the Goosebumps series as a kid. But I never really read much sci-fi/fantasy until I was older…though I used to watch a lot of Twilight Zone when I was little. I'd always find the marathons on cable and just spend days taking it in. I think it's safe to say that's a show that had a major influence on my work.
7 What are you working on next?
This is a year of sequels! I'm working on Na Akua: Namaka's Revenge, and I'm also working on Post-Apocalypticon, a follow-up to my first novel, Apocalypticon. And it's funny, because I never planned on there being a sequel to Apocalypticon, but so many fans have asked about one, and I do think there's more story to tell there…just not in the way of a typical sequel. So I'm hoping to have both of those books out before the end of 2017.


text:
Panama's most wanted caught on Cinta Costera – Authorities apprehended Rafael Eusebio Sáenz, also known as Ito, after a police chase on the Cinta Costera III when his truck crashed into a police barricade. Ito, who had a $10,000 bounty on his head as one of Panama's most wanted, has escaped from jail three times and is wanted in connection with two murders, narcotrafficking and shooting at a police officer in Pacora, among other crimes. He is reportedly being taken to Punta Coco island.
Rape suspect extradited from Panama – Ayabaca Jara, age 37 and an Ecuador native, was returned to Cuyahoga County, Ohio this week to face charges of repeated sexual abuse of a minor. He fled the U.S. to Panama after being indicted on one count each of Rape and Attempted Rape, eight counts of Gross Sexual Imposition, three counts of Kidnapping and three counts of Disseminating Matter Harmful to a Juvenile. Jara faces life in prison."Instead of Christmas dinner in Panama, this one will be dining with Sheriff Pinkney's other guests," said Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Timothy J. McGinty.
From Panama to Australia: 71kg of cocaine – Australian authorities found about 71kg of cocaine, worth an estimated $25 million, hidden inside a hydraulic press sent from Panama. Three men were arrested on charges of drug importation and five properties raided across Sydney.
Queen of the East goes to jail – Ofelia "Fella" Acevedo Cano, age 33 and also known as the Queen of the East, was taken to the Female Rehabilitation Center. On December 11, she was caught with over $855,000, alleged payment for Colombian drug traffickers. The Queen of the East also worked as an administrative assistant at the General Assembly earning $2,000 a month and is the daughter of the former mayor of the Chepo district to the east of Panama City.


text:
In A Cause That Will Triumph
first edition
1967 · New York
by HESS, Karl
New York: Doubleday & Co, 1967. Very Good/Very Good. First edition. Very good or better in a Very good plus dustwrapper. Clean text in clean cloth covers with minor shelf wear, dustwrapper is also lightly worn on edges and corners, back dustwrapper is soiled, end pages are lightly fading. Please Note: This book has been transferred to Between the Covers from another database and might not be described to our usual standards. Please inquire for more detailed condition information. (Inventory #: 201999)


text:
Frequently Asked Questions About Celiac Disease 09/30/2015This Celiac.com FAQ on celiac disease will guide you to all of the basic information you will need to know about the disease, its diagnosis, testing methods, a gluten-free diet, etc. Subscribe to Celiac.com's FREE weekly eNewsletter What are the major symptoms of celiac disease? Celiac Disease Symptoms What testing is available for celiac disease? Celiac Disease Screening Interpretation of Celiac Disease Blood Test Results Can I be tested even though I am eating gluten free? How long must gluten be taken for the serological tests to be meaningful? The Gluten-Free Diet 101 - A Beginner's Guide to Going Gluten-Free Is celiac inherited? Should my children be tested? Ten Facts About Celiac Disease Genetic Testing Is there a link between celiac and other autoimmune diseases? Celiac Disease Research: Associated Diseases and Disorders Is there a list of gluten foods to avoid? Unsafe Gluten-Free Food List (Unsafe Ingredients) Is there a list of gluten free foods? Safe Gluten-Free Food List (Safe Ingredients) Gluten-Free Alcoholic Beverages Distilled Spirits (Grain Alcohols) and Vinegar: Are they Gluten-Free? Where does gluten hide? Additional Things to Beware of to Maintain a 100% Gluten-Free Diet What if my doctor won't listen to me? An Open Letter to Skeptical Health Care Practitioners Gluten-Free recipes: Gluten-Free Recipes
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Hello Raven... It was suggested to me to get off gluten by my doctor who is working with me for BHRT's. However, my therapist (shrink) said he suspected I was sensitive and suggested a year ago that I do the self-elimination testing. Didn't do it until the other doc flat out told me to get off gluten. Though it was a self-elimination workup, therapist said I should do a second exposure. His reasoning is that he did an elimination then had oodles of tests done but came up negative for celiac. Then he had lab work done for allergies done and found his sensitivities to many things. BHRT doc recommends seeing a nutritionist and having the testing done via saliva or blood. Therapist did blood. Either way, I can't afford it now. Scheduled for a colonoscopy in August, so will speak with GI prior to procedure. It was a bit startling to read your info and realize how much of it I can relate to. Did you depression really disappear? I wouldn't know how to act if my depression went away as I have treatment resistant depression and can't anything for it. Thanks for sharing. Love reading others' posts and getting educated.
Thank you and to you too.
Sugar & Substitutes
Kitt posted a topic in Gluten-Free Recipes - Baking & Cooking TipsThe doc I'm seeing for BHRT wants me off sugar . She was the one who suggested I do an elimination diet to see if I was gluten sensitive (I am). Is it doable? Just learning to live gluten free, now this. Anyone have anything similar going on in their lives and how do you cook & bake without sugar? Not that I use that much, but needing to know for future reference and baking. Do you use stevia, honey or agave? She was very strict about not using artificial sweeteners. Thanks.
Simple Drop Biscuit Recipe
Kitt replied to Kitt's topic in Gluten-Free Recipes - Baking & Cooking TipsChecked out the site. Thanks so much. Many questions answered and I'm sure it will make life simpler.
Simple Drop Biscuit Recipe
Kitt replied to Kitt's topic in Gluten-Free Recipes - Baking & Cooking TipsThanks for the ideas and suggestions.
Simple Drop Biscuit Recipe
Kitt posted a topic in Gluten-Free Recipes - Baking & Cooking TipsIn the old days, :~)when I could use self-rising flour I made drop biscuits using self-rising flour, canola oil and milk and had the best biscuits with sausage gravy. Now, all I can find are recipes using crisco/marg/butter. I'm lazy. Would anyone have a recipe similar to the one I used to use. Thanks bunches.
2 Months, But I'm Back
Kitt posted a topic in Celiac Disease - Coping WithAlrighty...was here a couple of months ago asking questions. Since then, I've learned a lot. Wow. What an experience. Swore I didn't want to have to learn to cook again at 59, but I'm doing it. And learning to live gluten free. Sheesh. Went gluten free for 6 weeks then splurged at great nephew's graduation party. Had a brownie and a couple of cookies. Had 2 slices of toast the following morning (that I considered to be more enjoyable then the brownie & cookies)and then pancakes for breakfast the last day. OMG. Talk about being dippy and miserable physically. Immediately went gluten free. But was told I should go off one more time. A double study I think he said. So I'm waiting for a special occasion to eat conservatively. Not going to pig out like I did the first time. I've been lucky with avoiding cross contamination with hubby's toast or sandwiches. He's even eating what I eat and has cut back considerably on the bread. He claims he's declared the day "gluten free" several times a week. Of course, he really has very little choice if he wants to eat. But is enjoying the different dishes I throw together. Learning to appreciate spices. Baking is still up in the air. I have a shelf of flours in my fridge and have attempted pancakes, batter for squash and zucchini and I think I found a good combo for my zucchini bread. It's actually scary trying to put together food and flours so they're tasty. Also, the pre-mix flours are terribly expensive so I prefer to combine my own with the exception of using Bisquick gluten-free. Their pancakes are much better then mine and I altered the recipe so they're on the lighter side and have less fat. I've been encouraged to have saliva/blood screening to determine the extent of my allergies. Which would show sensitivities to everything, including spices and would rate the sensitivity from 1-5. So, if I'm not horribly sensitive that would mean I could indulge in something once in a while. Pricey and can't afford to do it but will hope I can trim a little from the budget here and there and get the scoop on everything. If I can feel a little better then I do now, gotta do it.
Kitt replied to catsmeow's topic in Celiac Disease - Coping WithI hate a Hershey's Special bar the other day and no problems.
Have come to terms with my gluten intolerance
First Of Many Questions
Kitt replied to Kitt's topic in Celiac Disease - Coping WithThanks to everyone for taking the time to answer my questions. I'm sure this is going to be a learning process. I don't know the reason the doctor told me to go gluten free, but she said she could just look at me and see hormone imbalances (eventhough she had the saliva results which indicated I was a mess hormonally). I'm going to do the designated containers for myself so there will be no cross contamination. It's only been 2 days and I think but not willing to swear to it, but I might be feeling better. Is it too soon to expect results?
First Of Many Questions
Kitt posted a topic in Celiac Disease - Coping WithMy doctor who is working with me regarding bio-identical hormone therapy recommended I go gluten-free. My therapist (has celiacs) made the same suggestion several months ago. I hesitated because my husband has no problem with his belly and issues involving gluten. I can't force him to go gluten free. He has a basket of his own physical issues that keep us on our toes. Now, the question. Can I be around wheat/rye/barley, not eat it and not have problems? Making toast or sandwiches? Oops, another question, told you!!! If I get crumbs in the margarine, does that contaminate it for me? Thanks, Kitt


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15th Annual San Francisco Drag King Contest Announced
July 6, 2010, SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Big Ball Holder, DragStrip Productions, wants you to fall to your immoral, depraved, degradacious, and deviant knees and seek salvation at their Altar of Shameless Self-promotion on San Francisco's Sabbath of Studliness, the 15th Annual "Sinners and Salivation-Themed" Drag King Contest. The Power of Drag Compels You on Friday, August 20, 2010 at the Mecca of Manliness, The DNA Lounge. Her Eminence, Reverend Sister Go-Go, Jane Wiedlin, guitarist of The Go-Go's and ordained minister, who also performs wedding, commitment and vow reaffirmation ceremonies, will officiate. Can we get an Amen?
This internationally evangelized and praised celebratory sermon of Sex and Drag and Rock & Roll brings out the Beast in the truest sense of the Word from the Parishioning Heathen He-men, but in more ways than one. For 15-years, on this High Holy Day of Androgyny, all Disciples of Drag will, not only, anoint their new King of Kings, but will feed their souls in knowing that their congregation donation (entry ticket price) will benefit PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support) - a volunteer-based organization that provides for the comprehensive needs of companion animals for low-income persons with HIV/AIDS and other disabling illnesses: pawssf.org
Considered "One of the most boisterous parties of the year," by the SF Chronicle, it's also "Sexy, campy, dragalicious, professionally executed and full of talent," espouses the SF Bay Times, and "Impressive, varied, and wild," advocates The Onion. The SFBG.com doles out righteous props, "Prepare to be amazed by the variety, astounded by the veracity, and properly impressed by the figurative and literal balls on display."
As if fueled with Hell Fire being Exorcised with a Costco Party Pack of Cool Ranch Communion Wafers, washed down with a keg of Latter Day Lawd Almighty Lager, "The Drag King Contest is a mash-up of the Miss America Pageant, American Idol, Halloween and a Monster Truck Show," states impresario and co-emcee Fudgie Frottage, aka: "The 666 Number of The Beast Burrito of Love," "High Priest of the Drag King Nation", or simply "The Man with the Biggest Balls in Show Business."
Co-emcee, Sister Roma of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, 'The Most Photographed Nun in the World,' and inventor of the Vibrating Consecrated Pope Soap on a Rope® - the evening's Mary to Fudgie Frottage's Joseph - states, "Good Friday? This is going to be a F—king Fantastic Friday, because I am anticipating multiple second comings! This is San Francisco's wildest, all-encompassing and interactive, ritualistic worshiping of loud, extreme, altogether awesome Communion-meets-Bar Mitzvah of pure excitement, energy, and High Holy Day righteous hotness. This year the Kings will be so divine, my body AND soul will need the most Salivation!"
The 2010 star-studded event will showcase 2009 winner Delicio Del Toro, cabaret chanteuse extraordinaire The Indra, BurlyQ Beauties Diamond Daggers, the raucous rock band PEPPERSPRAY!, considered "a combination of The Spice Girls and The Sex Pistols" by the SF Examiner, and old skool rappers The Momma's Boyz. But, most of all, the Drag King Contest would not be complete without the contestants!
Contestants are judged on talent, creativity, studliness, sex appeal, originality, humor, make-up/facial hair and fashion by the illustrious panel of nationally known celebrity judges, including Drag King Titleholders, Rusty Hips and Jay Walker, Simone DeLaGetto of Harlem Shake Burlesque and former Miss Trannyshack Anna Conda, Political Activist/Contender for San Francisco Supervisor of District 6.
The iconoclastic 15th Annual San Francisco Drag King Contest Commandments:
Sponsors: Vixen Creations, Buck Angel, Glama-Rama, Black & Blue Tattoo, Retro Fit Vintage, Costumes on Haight, Mr. S. Leather/Madame S. Leather, The Green Cross, Pretzel's Yoga, SF Bay Guardian, Larry Utley Photography, PRThatRocks.com, and the Center for Sex and Culture.


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Just when you thought your day couldn't get any better: Starbursts releases the latest and greatest news!
As we all know, the pink Starburst is the best Starbursts, which is why the candy company has announced they will release a limited-edition bag of just the pink flavored fun.
"We've heard our fans plea for more pink Starbursts, and we're giving them what they want," a rep said for Starburst according to AOL. "For the first time ever, Starburst is launching Starburst All Pink so people can enjoy not just one or two, but a whole pack full of their favorite flavor,"
The reason for this creation: they listened to their fans on social media!
"On social media we're seeing people talk about pink Starburst more than any other flavor; there's even a meme about being treated 'like a Pink Starburst."


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University of Sasktachewan College of Law Alumni Reception – Cocktail Event at The Fifth
Venue: The Fifth & Terrace
The Event:
University of Saskatchewan College of Law hosted their alumni reception at The Fifth & Terrace. Graduates in the Toronto area were invited to reconnect and meet their Dean, Martin Phillipson. Located near Toronto's Financial District, with parking and transit adjacent to the building, The Fifth & Terrace offered the client a convenient location for this weeknight networking event.
The Fifth's event services included set up of the event space for an intimate cocktail reception with sofa seating area, high-tops placed throughout for cocktails, reception desk at the entrance and coat check for guests.
Flexible Bar Arrangement:
The Fifth's event coordinator created a customized bar arrangement for the client to accommodate their budget and requirements. The event began with an open host bar with wine and cocktails. When a predetermined budget was reached, the event switched to cash bar. The Fifth's bar manager ensured a natural transition and kept the client informed throughout the evening.
Catering Services:
The Fifth's catering service included delicious passed hors d'oeuvres by our in-house culinary team led by Executive Chef JP Challet and Chef Robert Toppan. Check Out The Fifth's Delicious Catering.


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"Successful weight loss takes programming, not willpower". – Phil McGraw
Are you Overweight?
Do you know someone who is Overweight?
Do you want to be able to go to the beach without fear or shame of how your body is perceived by others?
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Imagine if this was the last time you had to resolve to lose weight.
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Over the past 25 years he has trained and worked with thousands of people, helping them to overcome obstacles that have held them back and create the lives they've always dreamed of.
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Dr. Robert Anthony was actually the inspiration for the hit movie: The Secret.
I am sure that you watched this movie and you don't remember seeing him in it.
There's a good reason for that.
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My guess is that you have probably tried every imaginable diet, weight loss program, pill, shake, meal replacement, starvation method and exercise gadget on the market to lose weight and failed.
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Willpower involves the conscious mind which is very limited in its ability.
Once your conscious mind is distracted by some outside event, you automatic subconscious programming by default will take over.
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This is why you see so many people lose weight only to gain it all back at a later time.
Because they used conscious effort instead of a much easier approach known as subconscious programming.
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Your subconscious mind is responsible for making your heart beat, your lungs breathe, and even reactions like moving out-of-the-way of danger is all done by your subconscious mind.
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Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace is actually the fourth film to be made for the series and stands as the storyline's prequel, establishing the foundation for the 3 movies that followed in chronological order, though not the order of release. It was conceived, produced and directed by George Lucas. It was the highest grossing of the Star Wars films (according to Wikipedia).
Richard's role as an Unnamed Fighter Pilot was, according to Richard, his first film role, "straight out of drama school". It was released in 1999 along with Cleopatra and This Year's Love.
Production details
Principal Cast Director Writer
Liam Neeson – Qi-Gong Jinn George Lucas George Lucas
Ewan MacGregor – Obi-Wan Kinobe
Natalie Portman – Queen Padmé Amidala
Jake Lloyd – Anakin Skywalker
Pernilla August – Shmi Skywalker
Frank Oz – Yoda (voice)
Anthony Daniels – C-3PO
Kenny Baker – R2-D2
Ian McDiarmid – Senator Palpatine
Terence Stamp – Supreme Chancellor Valorum
Brian Blessed – Boss Nass (voice)
Ahmed Best – Jar Jar Binks (voice)
Richard Armitage – Uncredited "Naboo Fighter Pilot"
That was straight out of drama school. I had a one-line part in Star Wars Episode I. …I was quite intimated but, you know, excited, obviously, to be there. (Radio 2, The Johnny Walker Show – Interview with Matthew Wright, March 16, 2005)
I was an unnamed fighter pilot with two lines. But it was kind of cool to be on a big budget epic as your first acting job. I met Ewan MacGregor, who was polite but pretty intense, and Natalie Portman who was just pretty. I kept embarrassing myself because I kept bumping into her double, who looked a lot like her, and thinking it was Natalie. I'd be like "Hi Natalie, how are you" – and she'd be looking at me blankly. (Louise Hancock, "The TV script said I had a perfect six-pack … ", Sunday Mirror, August 25, 2002)


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It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Today I am joining in on a blog hop that includes over 20 amazing bloggers who are showcasing their Holiday decor and some really helpful tips on how to make your house a home during the holiday. Being lost in the hustle and bustle is easy to do, so when it comes to getting your house ready sometimes it can seem like a chore… but thankfully Caroline from over at Organize Nashville organized this one stop local for some great ideas sure to make this easier for you!
This year's holiday is different for us! This is the first year that my grandfather is now living with us. Our home has recently been filled with furniture from the move and things are starting to look more put together now! We have added different LARGE pieces, for example: a piano, a large cherry buffet, and we even acquired a full dining room set from a friend! So I was anxious to get started decorating because I now have more to work with! Last years decor still looked great, but there is just something more magical this year! And I went a little overboard. ha!
I know that not everyone has the time or ability to go super crazy like we did this year. Ah hem, 3 trees, 1,000 plus lights just inside, 15 plus green swags… etc. Yicks! I know that is a lot. i know this because it took me 4 solid days to get it done. Granted I was also juggling the house, work, kids, meals, etc… But let's be real. It is overboard. So I've complied a list of some ways that you can make your home Holiday Ready without the extra work.
Easy Tips on Holiday Decorating
- Greens! And lots of them!!! Swags, wreaths, etc… are a great way to add a touch of holiday to your space without having to do much of the work. I prefer realistic fake greens. You can always find them on sale after the holiday and they are easy to put up every year! Good for the pocket, and good for the mind!
- A simple lit garland can do some wonders! I like to decorate my stair railing with something just to give it an extra touch of holiday. I created this simple DIY Holiday Garland earlier this month… and it turned out great! You can make this one for sure, and it will look like you invested some extra money on something that was actually homemade!
- Another easy and quick holiday decor item would be an entry statement piece! I like to add something right in the front door to greet people as come in. It is nice touch of holiday first thing and creates a sense that you have spent time getting your home ready for the season. This DIY Holiday Candle Arrangement is a great way to do just that and takes less than 10 minutes!
- You are going to want to create a focal point. That can be a mantle or some sort of main space that you can really go all out with! I like to focus on my mantel above the fireplace. It is a straight shot view as you come in the front door, and is also one of the focal pieces in our living space. I could leave everything else in my space holiday decor free, but if I have my mantel decorated it will seem like I actually put time and energy into getting the space decorated. See… I'm tricky like that!
Use these tips and add a candle here or there, you'll have a Holiday Ready Home in no time! This year will be our first holiday without my mother. I really wanted to keep the holiday special and remind my kids what the holiday is truly about. By going crazy this year with decor I am hoping it will keep the magic around for them as well as myself. There is nothing more comforting during the holiday than to snuggle up with the ones you love in front of a warm fire and the lights of a tree. So grab a warm cup of mulled cider and enjoy this holiday season!
Be sure to hop on over to At Home with Zan to hear how she readies her home for the holidays. I've also added a link to everyone else participating {and the day they post} so you can be sure to check out all the amazing blogs in this series!
Monday, December 5
Tuesday, December 6
Wednesday, December 7
Organize & Decorate Everything
Thursday, December 8
Friday, December 9
Finding Your Joy in The Journey
If you loved this post, then you HAVE to check this out!


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The Story of This Story: Moshe Kasher
Confession: I've been looking forward to my column this week more so than usual, mainly due to the fact that I haven't been this pumped to plug a book in a while. Last week, comic Moshe Kasher released his memoir, Kasher in the Rye: The True Tale of a White Boy from Oakland Who Became a Drug Addict, Criminal, Mental Patient, and Then Turned 16. A bit of a lengthy title, I know. But it is, to give credit where credit is due, a completely accurate description. If you aren't familiar with Kasher, YouTube some of his work and check out his podcast The Champs with Neal Brennan where guests include folks like Blake Griffin and Sasha Grey. (Since you're asking, one of my favorite bits of Kasher's standup is on complimenting vaginas. Look it up.)
Kasher begins with a declaration that will haunt him throughout his youth: the persistent asking by his family of, "What's wrong with him?" Now this is pre-drugs, pre-theft and pre-purposeful lying. This is straight out of the womb. Both of Kasher's parents are deaf, and he and his older brother are not. There's not too much about his brother in the book, as it's more about Kasher's personal journey through his rage. What kind of rage? The kind where your mother, scared, sends you to a therapist by age four. That's not a typo. I didn't mean fourteen, I meant four. And yes, dear reader, there's even some family history. It's really interesting, but the thing to take away is that rage runs in the men of his family, and it runs deep. His mother took Kasher and his brother to Oakland, California for two weeks. They never came back.
Divorce ran in the family as well, as was the wont of the women of his mother's side. They stayed with Kasher's grandmother, where the boys were "the princes of a man-hating coven." Papa Kasher stayed in New York where he re-married and became a member of a Chassidic sect, the Satmars. (In case you missed it, Moshe Kasher is Jewish. Le gasp!) In Kasher's own words, "Of all the Yiddish-speaking, society-rejecting, gown and fur hat-wearing Chassidic groups, the group my father married into was the most bizarre and outside the lines of society. It would be like being among the fattest groups of Walmart shoppers." These trips put Kasher into the position of being Chassidic six weeks of the year when visits happened. Later, he would end up spending his Bar Mitzvah money on phone sex while visiting. No one's perfect, especially Kasher, and he'd be the first to tell you.
When Kasher talks about the beginnings of his life in Oakland, he's still an angry kid, but like most kids with a troubled past we befriend the wrong people and just want to be a part of something, to be accepted. Before the drugs happen, I feel it's important to shed light on one of my favorite moments in the book. Before you start calling me a pervert, yes, it's about masturbation. Hear me out, though! I'm a female, and male anatomy is simple but still mystifying. At the age of eleven, he understood the "lube up and jerk off," but was still oblivious to ejaculation. So one day, happily jerking it, something goes awry. Brain buzzers go off, things are going numb. Then an electric current goes through his body, and his "world changed." So I guess first orgasms are universal. Noted.
While in Oakland in the seventh grade, Kasher was told he had "learning disabilities." This leads to a "How do I become some semblance of cool?" phase that stays with him. Before the downward spiral accelerates, he tells of a cringe-inducing story of not being invited to a popular kid's birthday and showing up with a gift regardless. You can imagine how things go, or you could pick up a copy and read for yourself. The important thing is, this is what drives Kasher to steal his first pack of cigarettes. He was twelve. A month after this, Donny enters young Kasher's life.
Donny was the leader of a group of kids Kasher affectionately calls the "fuckups." These were a group of kids that (you guessed it) fucked shit up. Donny brings Kasher into his group, and there's an attempt at initiation. They come up with a string of hazing rituals, but after a couple of months decide to just let him in. After bringing pot and alcohol into the equation, Kasher believes he's found the answers to his problems. If you're numb, how can you worry about anything?
This is the true meat of Kasher's memoir. The dark spiral he takes us on is completely unnerving. To be fair, I didn't realize how unnerved I was until I was finished. The insanity that ensues after this first evening of getting fucked up leaves the reader repeating over and over that "This shit happened, this shit happened…" Kasher goes in and out of schools like it's his job. He abuses combinations of drugs and alcohol that I'm sure would kill any other young teen, and to fulfill the prophecy, there is a rage inside of him that leads him to commit some violent acts, including towards his own mother.
I truly applaud Kasher for sharing his tale, as he's not looking for your sympathy or even your understanding. He's telling his story. So without delving further, because I could go on about this memoir for at least three more pages, I'll simply say: read it. Kasher's sense of humor makes you feel like he's that friend that had the story you never knew about. You know, the one you end up talking to until 4 in the morning on someone's porch after a party. So do yourself a favor, pick up a copy. I promise you won't be disappointed.


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Adventure game puzzles: unlocking the secrets of puzzle design
First posted on 05 December 2008. Last updated on 28 June 2010.
For a lot of games, you can figure out most of what you need to know about them from simply looking at an in-game screenshot or watching a gameplay trailer. With a quick glance at the head-up display and the quality of the graphics, you can get a good sense of what kind of monster killing mayhem you will be engaging in and what kind of experience you will likely get from playing the game.…
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By Mark Newheiser • On 29 December 2008 • From United States
By Maureen • On 29 December 2008 • From Dayton OH
By Jonathon Duerig • On 29 December 2008 • From Salt Lake City, UT
By richard murchland • On 25 December 2008 • From adams
By Mark Newheiser • On 20 December 2008 • From United States
By shay wilson • On 18 December 2008 • From juneau,ak usa
Jonathon: That's tricky. It doesn't appear to be an example of a key puzzle, since nothing external is required to come back later and solve the puzzle. I'd agree that riddles and minigames are the closest analogues.
One way to think about it is that riddles and minigames are both special cases of Interaction Puzzles. You can solve it on your own without any help, but for minigames the interaction takes the form of exploring the mechanics of a system, and for riddles the interaction takes the form of providing a precise answer. The interactions you're describing (which reminds me of a puzzle in Escape from Monkey Island btw), I might prefer to classify as a minigame since it's more sophisticated than a trivial interaction and involves more interaction with the state of the system than a simple riddle.
It is tricky though, I tried to set up these categories as generally as I could but a lot of them could stand to be divided further, the whole category of implicit information puzzles, or puzzles depending upon an internal change to the game's state, could be divided up among puzzles where your player learns some new information or gains some ability that makes something possible, puzzles where flipping a switch in one room opens a door in another, and puzzles where new opportunities arise as a complete non sequitur.
A game can't really be all that interactive if everybody always gets the same puzzle. Also, certain kinds of puzzles are just annoying to certain people, not fun. A game should allow one to have more of the puzzles a player likes and fewer of the annoying ones. Also, it would be nice if difficulty would adjust to player speed and ease of getting through puzzles.
It would also be nice if you could toggle the game not to make you have to jump through "action" hoops if you didn't want to do them. (I just had to stop playing a mystery game I liked, because there was no way I could move my mouse fast enough to get through some stupid action segment. If I wanted to play an action game, I would have bought one.)
I really like this way of organizing puzzles. It triggered a lot of memories as I mentally tried to fit different game memories into your categories. There is one kind of puzzle which I really enjoy but which doesn't seem to fit neatly into any of your categories. I'll call it a 'systemic' puzzle.
The key to a 'systemic' puzzle for me is that the player is presented with a sandbox operating under a set of simple but deep rules. Part of the puzzle process might be figuring out the rules, but most of the process is trying to understand the implications of the rules and manipulate the state of the sandbox to a particular end.
The best example I can think of is "All Things Devours" (Google "All Things Devours" "interactive fiction"), a text adventure game which allows limited time travel. The player may travel back in time a short while, and take action in parallel with their previous self. But if the player ever takes an action which causes a change in the perception of the previous self, the game is lost. This includes being seen by your previous self, causing an object to be in a different state at the time it was seen by your previous self, etc. This single addition to the standard text adventure physics is spun out into a small game where the puzzles involve figuring out the implications of this mechanic and how to use it to good effect.
For another example, see the last puzzle in "The Magic Toyshop" (Google "The Magic Toyshop" "interactive fiction").
This basic type seems to fall midway between riddles and mini-games. Like riddles, there is a definite epiphany required. And like mini-games, it is a matter of pursuing the mechanics to their logical conclusion once you understand the implications of the rules.
How would you classify this?
i like the games alot
That's a very good point shay, even though all the individual puzzle you solved were self-contained riddles or minigames, you had to rely on some clues from the story to know when a new location had opened up or a new conversation was possible, which all took the role of "implicit information", since no inventory or external information was managed by the player. Let's hope the other games in the series get an english version someday.
Wonderful article,
One thing to not that while almost all puzzles in layton's curious village were self-contained the main story line operated on an implicit knowledge type puzzle to open previously unaccessible areas