I asked ChatGPT "Will Automated Drilling Systems Truly Become Autonomous?" and the answer is: Automated drilling systems have already made significant progress towards autonomy, and it is likely that they will continue to become more autonomous in the future. Currently, many drilling rigs use automated systems to help with tasks such as pipe handling and directional drilling. These systems are typically operated by human operators, who use software to monitor the drilling process and make adjustments as needed. However, there are already some examples of fully autonomous drilling systems in use today. For example, the autonomous drilling system developed by Rio Tinto for use in its mines can operate without any human intervention, using sensors and algorithms to make drilling decisions based on real-time data. Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensor technology are likely to drive further progress in the development of autonomous drilling systems. As these technologies continue to improve, it is possible that drilling operations could become fully automated, with machines able to make decisions and carry out tasks without any human input. Of course, there are still challenges to be overcome before fully autonomous drilling becomes a reality. For example, ensuring the safety of autonomous drilling operations will be a critical concern, as drilling rigs operate in hazardous environments and can pose a risk to human workers. However, with continued investment and development, it is likely that we will see increasingly autonomous drilling systems in the future.

I asked ChatGPT "will oilfield drilling become autonomous" and the answer is: There is already some level of automation in oilfield drilling, and it is likely that the level of autonomy will increase in the future. In recent years, advances in technology have led to the development of autonomous drilling systems, which can operate with minimal human intervention. These systems use sensors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to analyze data and adjust drilling parameters in real-time. They can also detect potential issues and take corrective action to prevent costly downtime. The benefits of autonomous drilling include increased safety, improved efficiency, and reduced operating costs. However, there are also challenges that must be overcome, such as ensuring the reliability and safety of the autonomous systems, and addressing regulatory and legal issues related to their use. Therefore, while it is possible that oilfield drilling will become more autonomous in the future, it is difficult to predict exactly when and to what extent this will occur. It will depend on the pace of technological development, industry and regulatory acceptance, and economic factors.

I here there are a bunch of folks making claims that they are doing "autonomous drilling" when they are only talking about a sliver of the drilling process, things like "autonomous ROP optimization." "Autonomous drilling" is simply bogus marketing talk. Here is a slide I made about Autonomous Dish Washing Technology. For anyone who disagrees with me, please feel free to go to https://dish.care/, pay $400 and prove me wrong.

Autonomous refers to something that is self-governing or self-regulating, without external influence or control. It can be used to describe a wide range of things, from machines to organizations to countries. In the context of machines or technology, autonomous often refers to systems that are able to operate without direct human input or control. If one is speaking of an autonomous [a device capable of operating without direct human control] rig then this is not going to happen in a very long time: i. Variability of tasks. There are a wide variety of tasks and to have an autonomous rig then all tasks must be automated. The economics of automating ALL the tasks is a losing proposition. 1. There is a typical Pareto analysis of the development cost of a fully autonomous rig (the 80/20 rule, where 80% of the benefit will come from doing 20% of the possible work). 2. There is a huge installed base of capital equipment (existing rigs) that will need to be scrapped. ii. The most aggressive concepts (e.g. Raptor rigs) hadn’t been successful. iii. Humans will not accept it. iv. Just remember US Airways flight 1549

No