Abstract: A method for performing an oilfield operation of an oilfield having a subterranean formation. The method includes collecting oilfield data and deploying a first plug-in including a first oilfield technology functionality into an oilfield hosting application. The method further includes performing an oilfield analysis on the collected oilfield data in the oilfield hosting application using the first oilfield technology functionality of the first plug-in to generate an oilfield output and adjusting an oilfield operation based on the oilfield output.

Abstract: A system can include an interface to receive sensed data and economic data; a production control framework that includes a module for modeling motor efficiency of an electric submersible pump, a module for modeling gas composition of a fluid being pumped by an electric submersible pump, a module for modeling solid dynamics in a fluid being pumped by an electric submersible pump, a module to update one or more of the modules for modeling in response to receipt of data via the interface; and an interface to output control commands to a controller for an electric submersible pump based at least in part on data received by the interface and analyzed by the production control framework. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.

Abstract: There is provided a method for predicting behavior of a physical system. An exemplary method comprises identifying a set of input variables that have an impact on an output metric and identifying a subset of the set of input variables the subset having a relatively larger impact on the output metric. A physical property model is built to predict the output metric as a function of the subset of the set of input variables. Postulated changes in the subset of the set of input variables are probabilistically ranked using the physical property model. Behavior of the physical system is predicted based on the rank of the postulated changes.

Abstract: There is provided a system and method for obtaining data corresponding to a physical property of interest from a three-dimensional (3D) earth model. An exemplary method comprises defining a region of interest in the 3D earth model via at least one functional descriptor. The exemplary method also comprises extracting data corresponding to the physical property of interest where the region of interest and the 3D earth model overlap.

Abstract: An automated closed loop flowback and separation system that allows automated control and remote operation of a flowback operation from a safe distance without any fluid or gas release to the atmosphere. Four-phase separation tanks allow the transport gas, well bore cuttings, produced oil, and produced water to be automatically separated and transported through process piping for reuse or sale, eliminating the need for auxiliary equipment. Flow measurement instruments, pressure transmitters, and level transmitters work in conjunction with an automated blast choke to send data to a programmable logic controller for use in calculating the erosion status of the choke restriction and adjusting the choke to compensate. The programmable logic controller works with a touch-screen or similar human-machine interface to allow remote monitoring and control or automated control of the system. The automated blast choke can vary the choke restriction opening based on the pressure differential and flow rate conditions.

Abstract: A rotating control device is remotely hydraulically latched and unlatched with a docking station housing for use and removal, respectively. The system and method allows for interactive lubrication and cooling of the rotating control device, as needed, along with a supply of fluid for use with an active seal. A first sensor and a second sensor can be used to detect temperature, pressure and density of the supplied fluid at different locations and this data can be compared using a central processing unit (CPU). Also, a sensor can be used to detect the revolutions per minute of a rotating seal of the rotating control device and fluid can be provided to the rotating control device responsive to the detected revolutions per minute.

Abstract: The present invention relates to wellbore surveillance system for obtaining fluid reservoir information data, such as the position and amount of gas, oil and/or water, while draining hydrocarbons from an oil or gas field via a casing in a wellbore in a formation, the casing having a vertical part near a top of the casing and an inner face, the system comprising a first sensor for measuring a content of gas, oil and/or water in the formation, and a second sensor for measuring a content of gas, oil and/or water in the formation.

Abstract: A method of setting the value of an operational parameter of a well is provided.

Abstract: A well completion system for monitoring multiple annuluses in a well, including an “A” annulus (between the production tubing and production casing) and a “B” annulus (between the production casing and intermediate casing). The system includes a tubing hanger suspension assembly that seals and separates an upper area of the production annulus. Port(s) in the production casing above the seal provide access between the “B” annulus and the separated area. The system also includes a moveable sleeve that allows fluid communication through the port(s) when in an open position, but not in a closed position. The tubing hanger suspension assembly includes means for moving the sleeve from the closed position to the open position. In addition, the tubing hanger housing includes “A” and “B” annulus passageways in communication with the production annulus and the separated area, respectively.

Abstract: This invention provides for an apparatus that controls a liquid level down-hole of a hydrocarbon producing well by physically monitoring the liquid level down-hole having a down-hole liquid level measurer and a signal device connected to the liquid level measurer that causes a pump to adjust its current liquid output based on the liquid level down-hole as measured by the down-hole liquid level measurer.

Abstract: A prog analysis and execution system and method. The system includes a computer control system, an interface engine in communication with the computer control system, the interface engine being configured to receive prog information, and an action item development engine in communication with the control system, the action item development engine being configured to analyze received prog information and to determine corresponding action items. The system further includes a sensor engine in communication with the computer control system, the sensor engine being configured to receive input from at least one sensor for use in controlling a well drilling operation, and an operational equipment engine in communication with the computer control system, the operational equipment engine being configured to receive input from the computer control system and to control the well drilling operation in accordance with the determined action items in the prog.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wellbore pumping system submerged into a wellbore for unloading liquid from a wellbore comprising well fluid, such as gas, having a wellbore pressure, comprising a pump having an inlet and an outlet, a tubing fluidly connected with the outlet of the pump, and a driving unit connected with and powered by a cable, such as a wireline, and having a rotatable drive shaft for driving the pump, wherein the pump is a reciprocating pump comprising at least one pumping unit having a first moving member displaceable in a housing for sucking well fluid into and out of a first chamber. Furthermore, the invention relates to a wellbore pumping method.

Abstract: In or near real-time monitoring of fluids can take place using an opticoanalytical device that is configured for monitoring the fluid. Fluids can be monitored prior to or during their introduction into a subterranean formation using the opticoanalytical devices. Produced fluids from a subterranean formation can be monitored in a like manner. The methods can comprise providing at least one acid; combining the at least one acid with a base fluid to form an acidizing fluid; and monitoring a characteristic of the acidizing fluid using a first opticoanalytical device that is in optical communication with a flow pathway for transporting the acidizing fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an impervious body, a sealing element; an energy source, and a trigger. The impervious body is configured to prevent passage of fluid therethrough. The sealing element is disposed about the impervious body. The energy source is operationally connected to the sealing element. The trigger is configured to transfer energy from the energy source to the sealing element. The trigger is activated, at least in part, by receiving a signal from a pump tool passing through an interior of the impervious body.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus enable monitoring a hydrocarbon well for water within a flow stream of the well. A water detector includes a light source for emitting into a flow stream infrared light that includes a water absorbent wavelength band. A detector detects attenuation of the water absorbent wavelength band upon the infrared radiation passing through at least a portion of the flow stream. The water detector outputs a presence of water and/or a phase fraction or quantification of water as determined based on the attenuation. Detecting attenuation of a substantially transmissive wavelength band with respect to water simultaneously with detection of the attenuation of the water absorbent wavelength band can enable correction for non-wavelength dependent attenuation.

Abstract: A computer system and computerized method for allocating production among multiple formations produced by a hydrocarbon well, using isotopic concentration analysis. According to an aspect of the system and method, multiple single-formation isotopic concentration measurements of multiple hydrocarbon gases are taken from each formation. Within each formation, groups of similar isotopic concentration values are defined, and are mapped to geographic regions of the formations. Mixing equations are developed between regions of the different formations, for use in allocating production for a well intersecting those regions. According to another aspect of the system and method, allocation among three or more formations is performed using Monte Carlo analysis of an underspecified mixing equation, and at a measured isotopic concentration value for the commingled flow from the well.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of measuring a parameter characteristic of a rock formation in an oil well is provided with a device for generating a sensing field within a volume of the rock formation and a device for causing a flow through the volume in the presence of the sensing field, further including sensors responsive to changes in the volume, wherein a sensor response is indicative of the amounts of fluid, particularly hydrocarbon and water saturations and irreducible hydrocarbon and water saturations. Measurements can be made before the flow affects the measuring volume and after onset of the flow through the measuring volume.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for monitoring and controlling a power system of an electrical submersible pump assembly. A sensor monitors an alternating current component of a downhole electrical imbalance voltage at a neutral point of a motor of the electrical submersible pump assembly. The sensor measurement is transmitted to a controller at the surface. The controller analyzes the alternating current component of the downhole electrical imbalance voltage and then adjusting an operation of the electrical submersible pump assembly, or scheduling maintenance, accordingly. Also, a model of a power system of an electrical submersible pump assembly is created to predict an alternating current component of a downhole electrical imbalance voltage. The model is modified as necessary responsive to measurements from the sensor. A controller adjusts surface currents according to the model of the power system to match downhole motor drive currents to thereby optimize the power system.

Abstract: This invention provides for an apparatus that controls a liquid level down-hole of a hydrocarbon producing well by physically monitoring the liquid level down-hole having a down-hole liquid level measurer and a signal device connected to the liquid level measurer that causes a pump to adjust its current liquid output based on the liquid level down-hole as measured by the down-hole liquid level measurer.

Abstract: A plunger lift control system for improving the output efficiency of an oil or gas well by a real-time reporting arrangement, the system comprising: a tubing string having an upper end and a lower end, the tubing string arranged within a well casing for receiving a plunger traveling therethrough, a plunger having a sound generating function therewith, so as to transmit a real-time lower-end location signal from the plunger to a signal sensor and processor arranged in communication with a system controller arranged at the upper end of the tubing.

Abstract: A method for producing hydrocarbon fluids from an organic-rich rock formation to a surface facility is provided. The method may include heating the formation in situ to cause pyrolysis of formation hydrocarbons, and producing production fluids from the formation via two or more wells. The produced fluids have been at least partially generated as a result of pyrolysis of the formation hydrocarbons. In addition, the produced fluids comprise non-condensable fluids, or gases, which taken together have an averaged Wobbe Index which varies at a rate of more than 5% over a period of time. The method also includes controlling production from one or more of the wells such that a combination of the production fluids from the wells results in a combined gas stream that's averaged Wobbe Index varies at a rate of less than 5% over the period of time. The combined stream comprises combustible hydrocarbon fluids.

Abstract: A method of producing fluids from a wellbore that has therein n adjustable flow control device for controlling flow of fluid between a formation and the wellbore may include: providing a tool having a sensor configured to provide measurements relating to a downhole property of interest, wherein the tool is configured to adjust flow from the flow control device; conveying the tool into the wellbore; determining the property of interest using the tool; and adjusting the flow through the flow control device with the tool at least in part in response to the determined parameter of interest. An apparatus for controlling fluid flow between a formation and a wellbore, according to one embodiment may include: a tool configured to be conveyed into a wellbore that contains at least one sensor for estimating a property of interest downhole and a latching device configured to couple to a flow control device in the wellbore to alter flow of the fluid through the flow control device.

Abstract: A system and a method for the artificial pneumatic production of oil and gas which is self-supplied is provided. The well's originating gas separates in a skid of separation of oil and after gas is rectified, gas is injected again into the well; the gas injection is made to a pressure enough to lift the oil-gas mixture inside the well. The excess of gas is exhausted toward the closer processing station.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for surveying a well in real-time and responding to operational conditions in response to the surveillance. According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure a method for surveillance of a well includes providing a producing a fluid from the formation into the wellbore, injecting a fraction of the fluid from the wellbore into an injection zone of the formation via operation of a pumping system. Well data is sensed in the wellbore proximate to the injection zone and a formation injection performance parameter is determined using the sensed well data. The formation injection performance parameter comprises one selected from the group of stable injection, negative skin, positive skin and water channeling.

Abstract: Apparatuses, methods, and computer program products for evaluating the performance of a gas lift well are disclosed. A gas lift well surveillance kit is disclosed. A method for evaluating the performance of a gas lift well includes injecting a tracer into an annulus, measuring a concentration of the tracer present in a substance retrieved from the well, determining actual travel times of the tracer, segmenting the gas lift well into a plurality of ranges of well depth, determining lift gas loss parameters, calculating lift gas velocities in the annulus and in the production tubing for each of the plurality of ranges of well depth based on the lift gas loss parameters, and determining points of entry of the lift gas into the production tubing based on: (i) the actual travel times of the tracer, and (ii) the lift gas velocities in the annulus and in the production tubing.

Abstract: A device and method can detect, and also break, an occurrence of gas lock in an electrical submersible pump assembly in a well bore based upon surface or downhole data without the need for operator intervention. To detect an occurrence of gas lock, an instantaneous value is monitored using a sensor. Then a controller compares the instantaneous value to a threshold value over a predetermined duration to thereby detect the occurrence of gas lock in the electrical submersible pump assembly. Sensors can include, for example, a differential pressure gauge, a pressure gage located in a pump stage located toward the inlet, a fluid temperature sensor located toward the discharge, a free gas detector located near the pump discharge, an electrical resistivity gage, a flow meter located within surface production tubing, and a vibration sensor attached to a tubing string to measure a vibration signature.

Abstract: A downhole tool with a feedback arrangement including a tool having one or more fluid outflow ports that exhaust fluid during normal operation of the tool. A feedback arrangement in operable communication with the fluid exhausted from the one or more fluid outflow ports during operation of the tool. The feedback arrangement interacting with exhausting fluid to produce a signal receivable at a remote location indicative of proper tool operation. A method for confirming operation of a downhole tool is included.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of measuring a parameter characteristic of a rock formation in an oil well is provided with a device for generating a sensing field within a volume of the rock formation and a device for causing a flow through the volume in the presence of the sensing field, further including sensors responsive to changes in the volume, wherein a sensor response is indicative of the amounts of fluid, particularly hydrocarbon and water saturations and irreducible hydrocarbon and water saturations. Measurements can be made before the flow affects the measuring volume and after onset of the flow through the measuring volume.

Abstract: A system for generating variable frequency tube waves includes a high pressure multiplex pump having a number of plungers, with each plunger operatively coupled to a suction valve on a suction side and a discharge valve on a discharge side. The suction valve or the discharge valve of a first one of the plungers includes an opening, such that the modified plunger on a discharge stroke pushes fluid through the opening in the suction or discharge valve. The system includes a tubular fluidly coupling the high pressure multiplex pump to a wellbore, and a pressure sensor that receives tube waves generated by the high pressure multiplex pump and reflected from the wellbore.

Abstract: Production logging apparatus and method are provided. The apparatus comprises a coupling module, an electronic module, a micro-winch, a docking station, and a micro-production logging tool. The coupling module provides mechanical support for the production logging apparatus below a pumping arrangement disposed in a wellbore, and allows flow to enter the pumping arrangement. The electronic module comprises a winch controller, a powering module and a telemetry module, and adapted to automate the micro-winch. The docking station comprises a latching mechanism for ensuring positive engagement of a micro-production logging tool with the production logging apparatus during docking. And the micro-production logging tool comprises at least one sensor and is coupled to the micro-winch by a cable for regular production logging runs to measure the evolution of well characteristics.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for allocating production among reservoir compartments by way of compositional and isotopic analyses. That is, where individual reservoir compartments contribute differing amounts of fluid to a commingled production stream, the methods herein determine the relative contribution of fluid volume from each reservoir compartment. Both a composition-based relative contribution and an isotope-based relative contribution of fluid from each reservoir compartment may be determined to allocate production to each reservoir compartment, the determinations respectively being based on composition mass balances and stable carbon isotope mass balances of components. The combination of both allocation analyses provides quality checks on the results that identify improper allocations that may arise. In addition to production allocation, other applications include, among others, determining the effectiveness of intervention operations and providing feedback for adjusting operations.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of producing the liquid subsoil assets, and could be used in the bottom-hole pumping of oil wells. The method consists in creating a long wave impact onto the formation in the infra-low frequency range during cruse oil production. The method provides for a running validity check and analysis of change trend, as well as an operative control of the impact parameters in order for supporting the positive trends in the fluid production conditions and preventing the negative trends. The apparatus for implementing the method consists of a switch, measure unit, control unit, and information monitoring unit, which is connected through a first and second modems and communication channel to the apparatus control unit, and a set of measurement devices of the productive complex. The switch, measure unit, control unit, and the first modem are arranged in close proximity to the well and ensure a local computerized control of the fluid production process and the impact.

Abstract: A method of operating an electrical submersible pumping system that includes realtime monitoring of the wellbore fluid and adjusting pump speed so the fluid entering the pump remains subcooled. The method can include adding sensors within the wellbore and digitally storing fluid data accessible by a pump controller. The pump speed can be increased or decreased by adjusting the frequency of the electrical power delivered to the pump motor.

Abstract: A system for use in a well includes downhole equipment for positioning in the well, and an optical fiber for deployment in the well, the optical fiber to extend to a location of interest in the well in proximity of the downhole equipment. An analysis unit analyzes detected light signals returned from the optical fiber that has been affected by acoustic events generated by the downhole equipment and to determine a status in the wellbore based on the analyzing.

Abstract: A system (100) for selective activation of explosive devices (126, 128, 130, 132) includes a surface controller (102), a downhole controller (106) operable to communicate bidirectionally with the surface controller over a first communication link (108) and a plurality of downhole remote units (114, 116, 118, 120) operable to communicate bidirectionally with the downhole controller (106) over a second communication link (112). One or more sensors (162) are operably associated with the downhole controller (106) and one of the explosive devices (126, 128, 130, 132) is operably associated with each of the downhole remote units (114, 116, 118, 120) such that, responsive to a detonation event, the sensors (162) detect the intensity level of the detonation which is communicated from the downhole controller (106) to the surface control (102) over the first communication link (108).

Abstract: A rotating control device is remotely hydraulically latched and unlatched with a docking station housing for use and removal, respectively. The system and method allows for interactive lubrication and cooling of the rotating control device, as needed, along with a supply of fluid for use with an active seal. A first sensor and a second sensor can be used to detect temperature, pressure and density of the supplied fluid at different locations and this data can be compared using a central processing unit (CPU). Also, a sensor can be used to detect the revolutions per minute of a rotating seal of the rotating control device and fluid can be provided to the rotating control device responsive to the detected revolutions per minute.

Abstract: Methods for accurately assessing the condition of a petroleum reservoir and designing and implementing a plan of action to increase production and recovery of petroleum from the reservoir. Information is gathered using a unique set of metrics and information gathering techniques and analyzed in a targeted fashion by properly weighting the data in the context of the particular reservoir and goals of the producer. A reservoir rating is generated using asymmetric analysis of metrics and then used to formulate a plan of action. Production architecture (e.g., number, location and manner of constructing oil and injector wells) is then constructed according to the plan of action. Reservoir performance can be continuously monitored and used to verify production and recovery goals and/or provide triggers or alarms to alter production equipment.

Abstract: A method of producing fluids from a wellbore that has therein n adjustable flow control device for controlling flow of fluid between a formation and the wellbore may include: providing a tool having a sensor configured to provide measurements relating to a downhole property of interest, wherein the tool is configured to adjust flow from the flow control device; conveying the tool into the wellbore; determining the property of interest using the tool; and adjusting the flow through the flow control device with the tool at least in part in response to the determined parameter of interest. An apparatus for controlling fluid flow between a formation and a wellbore, according to one embodiment may include: a tool configured to be conveyed into a wellbore that contains at least one sensor for estimating a property of interest downhole and a latching device configured to couple to a flow control device in the wellbore to alter flow of the fluid through the flow control device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of utilizing a pressure signature in conjunction with a plunger's fall time as an indicator of plunger location. The disclosed method can also indicate well and/or plunger conditions. A controller that can see and interpret slope change and/or pressure signature and automatically make changes to plunger fall time is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process and system for release and recovery of methane from subterranean methane hydrate deposits in which heated CO2 is used to displace methane from the methane hydrate deposits and a portion of the displaced methane is routed to a combustion device proximate the deposit for combustion in-situ, generating heated CO2 which is introduced into the deposit, displacing additional methane, a portion of which is routed to the combustion device, thereby providing a substantially self-sustaining process. Portions of the displace methane not routed to the combustion device are captured for use elsewhere.

Abstract: A method of servicing a wellbore extending from a surface and penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The method comprises placing a assembly in the wellbore, wherein the assembly comprises at least a first downhole tool, a signal receiver subassembly, and a conveyance between the first downhole tool and the surface. The method further comprises the signal receiver subassembly receiving a first signal generated by contact between the wellbore and the assembly and initiating a first function of the first downhole tool based on the first signal.

Abstract: A gas flow system for removing a liquid from a well bore and allowing for gas production is provided. The gas flow system comprises a casing in the well bore for allowing flow of the liquid and gas; a tubing string in the casing for allowing flow of the liquid and gas; pressure measurement devices for use in determining a rate of liquid influx into the well bore; a casing control valve moveable between various positions ranging from fully open to fully closed for controlling flow through the casing; a tubing control valve moveable between various positions ranging from fully open to fully closed for controlling flow through the tubing; and flow measurement devices for determining the rate of flow through the tubing and the total rate of flow.

Abstract: An anti-fouling system for offshore drilling structures which injects metallic ions into seawater pumping systems. An ion generator may be positioned at various positions including the strainer basket of one or more of the seawater pumps or at various positions in the system. As well, ion generators may be skid mounted and/or otherwise centrally located and connected by controllable valves to various treated water injection points, whereby the flow rates are determined and ion concentrations are maintained at desired levels throughout the system, regardless of different pumping rates.

Abstract: A technique is provided for control of subsea well systems. The technique utilizes a subsea controller coupled to a plurality of subsea well system components to allow localized control of the subsea well system. The subsea controller can be used in a variety of functional applications, such as balancing power distribution to subsea components.

Abstract: A seismic fluid prediction data, e.g., a dataset, is generated for a subsurface region by preconditioning seismic data for amplitude-versus-offset (AVO) analysis. Seismic AVO attribute data is generated for the subsurface region, including creating intercept (A) and gradient (B) seismic data using two or more angle stacks of seismic data. Lithology prediction data is generated with the intercept (A) and gradient (B) seismic data, and an AVO crossplot for fluids is generated to identify an initial AVO anomaly. Seismic fluid prediction data is generated based on the generated AVO crossplot and lithology prediction data.

Abstract: A method of providing a flow control device is disclosed, which one aspect may include: defining a flow rate; defining a desired relationship between a parameter of the flow control device that exhibits a substantial change when a selected property of the fluid changes in a first range and remains substantially constant when the selected property is in the second range; determining using a computer and a simulation program the relationship between the performance parameter and the selected property over the first range and the second range for the defined flow rate for a geometry of a flow through area of a flow control device; comparing the determined relationship of the performance parameter with the desired relationship; altering the geometry to a new geometry when the difference between the desired performance and the determined performance is outside a desired range; determining using the computer and the simulation program the relationship between the performance parameter and the selected property over

Abstract: A method of servicing a wellbore extending from a surface and penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The method comprises placing a workstring in the wellbore, wherein the workstring comprises at least a first downhole tool, a signal receiver subassembly, and a conveyance between the first downhole tool and the surface. The method further comprises the signal receiver subassembly receiving a first signal generated by contact between the wellbore and the workstring and initiating a first function of the first downhole tool based on the first signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling fluid flow into a wellbore tubular includes a flow control member that selectively aligns a port with an opening in communication with a flow bore of the well bore tubular. The flow control member may have an open position wherein the port is aligned with the opening and a closed position wherein the port is misaligned with the opening. The flow control member moves between the open position and closed position in response to a change in drag force applied by a flowing fluid. A biasing element urges the flow control member to the open or the closed position. The apparatus may include a housing receiving the flow control member. The flow control member and the housing may define a flow space that generates a Couette flow that causes the drag force. The flow space may include a hydrophilic and/or water swellable material.

Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product for performing oilfield surveillance operations. The oilfield has a subterranean formation with geological structures and reservoirs therein. The oilfield is divided into a plurality of patterns, with each pattern comprising a plurality of wells. Historical production/injection data is obtained for the plurality of wells. Two independent statistical treatments are performed to achieve a common objective of production optimization. In the first process, wells and/or patterns are characterized based on Heterogeneity Index results and personalities with the ultimate goal of field production optimization. In the second process, the history of the flood is divided into even time increments. At least two domains for each of the plurality of wells are determined. Each of the at least two domains are centered around each of the plurality wells. A first domain of the at least two domains has a first orientation.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the speed of a progressing cavity liquid well pump to increase liquid production from a well while avoiding operation of the well in a pumped-off state. A controller controls a variable speed drive to drive a progressing cavity liquid well pump at a set pump speed while measuring well and system parameters indicative of pumping performance and/or liquid production from the well. The set speed of the pump is changed in steps either increasingly or decreasingly by the controller, acting through the variable speed drive, in response to the measured well and system parameters. The controller, responsive to the measured well and system parameters, challenges the set pump speed by varying the set pump speed so as to increase the production from the well while avoiding pump and well operation in a pumped-off state.