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Rig automation is often seen only as drill floor robots that mechanize pipe handling to improve safety. By integrating surface and downhole data with dynamic drilling models and the rig's drilling machines, we can automate and optimize the drilling process occurring below the rotary table. The resulting efficiency gain and reduced risk lowers drilling costs and creates new drilling opportunities.

This presentation outlines the current industry efforts in automation to develop and implement automation tools and real-time models connected to rig control systems, for conventional rigs as well as high-end deepwater units. Florence looks at the changing roles for the rig crews, addressing concerns when deploying this new technology to various locations around the globe. He closes by discussing how drilling automation can add value to various types of drilling programs.