Description:SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to a system and method for operations management, and particularly to a system and 5 method for management of an oil and/ or gas operations including drilling and maintenance operations.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Efficient operation requires reporting of activities or tasks 10 performed for an asset. The asset may refer to a task, an object, equipment, or a process. Asset is something that is valuable to an organization and requires systematic management. Existing systems and methods for asset management are haphazard and scattered across various sites and sub systems of the organization making it 15 difficult for efficient management.
[0003] For instance, at a planning stage, procedure development to be performed with estimated resources and parameters are developed by a first person at a first location using an electronic or hardware system. The developed procedures are communicated to a 20 second person at a second location whose scope is to execute the planned steps. This leads to use of another portal / system / method in which actual reporting or execution steps are recorded with real resources and real parameter values.
[0004] The execution steps are then communicated and 25 transferred in hardware or soft copy form to entire enterprise. Lastly, a third person or either of the people compiles the resources and parameters to be analysed to understand the efficiency of entire execution. This efficiency includes optimization of resources and parameters. Resources here refer to the material, object or person 30 being utilized to execute a specific task. Parameters here refers to the measuring values and variables which help in measuring the effectiveness of a task i.e. time, pace, rate, decline and other recorded values.
[0005] At times, during a project or task, various discussions are 35 done via email or meetings which are not captured in form of a suitable report format. Such statements, remarks or emails are missed at times.
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[0006] While performing daily operations several parameters are used that require calculations related to mensuration. These calculations are done offline and then the values are written into a system. Any changes or deviation results in repeating the calculations several times increasing redundancy. 5
[0007] Further, in most cases, a plan is made in a document or spreadsheet or in a portable document format (pdf) documentation or equivalent which is a lengthy task. One has to switch from one application to another to prepare one complete plan. Some existing systems support planning on-time basis but detailed planning portal is 10 not available.
[0008] Further, approval of the plan is done via a hard copy or Word files which are constantly sent and corrected via email communications. This results in time consumption and impacts quality of work. 15
[0009] Further, reporting is done with reference to the plan. However, due to different interfaces and/or platforms for planning and reporting, there is always a risk that steps of the plan may be missed. For example, if plan is developed in a pdf format and corresponding report is developed in excel / spreadsheet format, comparing the plan 20 with the report is difficult and time consuming.
[0010] Further, some existing reporting portals do not take the parameters of measurements / mensuration in a variable form. This leads to making many reporting calculations non-automated and user unfriendly. Because of the text written in reporting, the parameters 25 used for calculation in reporting cannot be identified separately. Therefore, a different portal is used for calculations. On the other hand, portals which take parameters in variable format miss the detailed descriptions and texts.
[0011] Further, as plan and report are written separately and at 30 different locations, analysing them together is time and resource consuming. In some systems, data analytics is conducted at a platform other than the planning and reporting platforms leading to usage of additional resources.
[0012] Further, some existing systems can read online data and 35 do simultaneous analysis using engineering calculations and correlations. However, such systems are limited to only data capturing and interpretation. Such systems are procured by end users
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separately and later embedded into their organization’s system increasing complexity. [0013] Further, important attachments, data tables and documents in form of pictures, scanned copies and emails corresponding to operational steps are missed out. This leads to huge loss of important 5 and valuable information.
[0014] Further, in one single organization with different business units or disciplines, separate applications and database management systems are used, increasing cost and inefficiency within the organization. 10
[0015] Therefore, having different portals for planning, execution, analysis, of same task leads to inefficiency in the entire system.
[0016] Therefore, there is a need for a unified system for operations management.
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SUMMARY
[0017] The present invention relates to a system and method for unified platform for planning, execution, analysis, visualization and reporting of asset operations management of an organization.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] This brief description of drawings is only illustrative in nature and only certain embodiments and features of the present invention are shown in the drawings. Like reference numerals represent similar components/features/modules/functions of the 25 present invention, wherein
[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a unified platform for operations management, according an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an asset tree structure, 30 according an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating visualization module of the unified platform displaying planned versus actual performance of the system, according an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0022] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for unified 35 operations management, according an embodiment of the present invention.
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[0023] The features, embodiments illustrated in the drawings are not exhaustive and are better explained in the detailed description and defined by the following claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION 5
[0024] Operations management for any organization involves managing the entire process, from organizing asset to completing the process and executing the process in different phases. This includes ensuring that all equipment, personnel, and resources are in place and properly managed to ensure the project is completed on time, within 10 budget, and in compliance with all applicable safety and environmental regulations. Some of the key responsibilities of operations management may include the following.
[0025] Project planning and scheduling involves developing a detailed project plan that outlines all of the activities involved in the 15 project and creating a timeline for completing each activity.
[0026] Resource management involves managing the resources needed for the project, including personnel, equipment, and materials. This also includes ensuring that all resources are properly maintained and that any issues are addressed promptly. 20
[0027] Safety management is a top priority for any oil and gas operations company, and operations management is responsible for ensuring that all applicable safety protocols are in place and being followed. This includes conducting regular safety audits and training programs, as well as implementing emergency response plans. 25
[0028] Oil and gas operations can have a significant impact on the environment, and operations management is responsible for ensuring that all applicable environmental regulations are being followed. This includes implementing best practices for waste management, monitoring air and water quality, and implementing measures to 30 minimize the impact of oil and gas operations on local ecosystems.
[0029] Quality control is essential for ensuring that operations are efficient, effective, and meet the desired outcome. Operations management is responsible for implementing quality control measures and ensuring that all drilling activities meet the company's quality 35 standards.
[0030] Overall, operations management is critical for the success of any organization. By ensuring that all aspects of the project are
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managed effectively and efficiently, operations management can help the company achieve its goals while minimizing risks and maximizing profits. [0031] Further, an operation or project is divided into various phases which is catered by different disciplines or teams. So, a unified 5 platform should cater to all the phases and compatible with data structure for all disciplines and teams.
[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a unified platform 102 for operations management system 100, according an embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 may include a unified platform 10 102 communicatively coupled to a database 114. The unified platform 102 may include a planning module 104, an execution module 106, an analysis module 108, a visualization module 110, and a reporting module 112.
[0033] The planning module 104 is an important component of 15 operations management that is responsible for developing detailed project plans and schedules for various tasks and resources. This module typically uses sophisticated software tools and techniques to analyse various factors such as resource availability, project scope, timelines, and budget constraints to develop a comprehensive plan for 20 completing the project.
[0034] In the context of an energy company, the planning module 104 would be responsible for developing project plans and schedules for various field development projects, its planning right from sub-surface to drilling, completion, production and abandonment of a field 25 accounting for the availability of resources, calculations, inventories, personnel, and other resources. This would involve analysing data, estimating time and resources required to complete the project, and developing a detailed schedule of tasks to be performed.
[0035] The planning module 104 is also be responsible for 30 monitoring progress throughout the project, adjusting the schedule as needed, and ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and within budget. This would involve coordinating with various stakeholders, including contractors, suppliers, and regulatory agencies, to ensure that all aspects of the project are moving forward smoothly. 35
[0036] The planning module 104 incorporates a feature wherein the entire plan, attachments, database and details required for
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planning are displayed at one single platform rather than at different locations. [0037] Overall, the planning module 104 plays a critical role in the success of any project by ensuring that all tasks are properly planned, scheduled, and executed. 5
[0038] During planning, levels are defined in such a way that once any option of Level-n is selected, the next options of level – (n+1) appear automatically, making the planning more automated.
[0039] The execution module 106 is responsible for executing all of the tasks that have been planned by the planning module 104. This 10 module is focused on managing the day-to-day or hour-to-hour planned operations, including overseeing the work of personnel, managing the use of equipment and materials, and ensuring that all tasks are completed.
[0040] The execution module 106 executes step-by-step the 15 planned operations.
[0041] The reporting module 112 is responsible for providing various reports in different required formats to various stakeholders such as managers, engineers, contractors, and field executives. This module is focused on providing stakeholders with the information they 20 need to make informed decisions and to understand the overall performance of the project.
[0042] The reporting module 112 ensures that executed steps are entered into the same portal where the plan was created with correct set of information. The reporting module 112 covers the same 25 components which have been entered for planning but with actual reporting – all 4 levels, actual resources and parameters utilized, actual time taken, attachments or pictures, emails or charts related to the operation and most important entry of any required data being generated. 30
[0043] In one embodiment, the reporting module 112 includes a sub-module that determines whether a task is planned or unplanned and reason(s) for the same.
[0044] The reporting module 112 is set-up in a way that the planning module 104 is also visible so that no planned step is missed 35 by the execution module 106 or the reporting module 112.
[0045] Overall, the reporting module 112 is an efficient means of reporting the actual operations or work which is planned and delivers
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all related information, database, sequence, issues and related attachments including communication and supporting databases all in one system under the present unified platform. [0046] The analysis module 108 is responsible for comparing the planned tasks with the executed tasks. This module is focused on 5 analysing the data and metrics collected during the project to identify areas where performance can be improved and to ensure that the project is being executed according to plan.
[0047] In the context of an organization, more particularly, an oil and gas operator, the analysis module 108 is responsible for 10 comparing the planned tasks with the executed tasks in order to identify any discrepancies and to determine the reasons for these discrepancies. This would involve analysing data on drilling, production or simulation modelling efficiency, resource utilization, and other key performance metrics, and comparing this data with the 15 planned metrics and timelines.
[0048] In one embodiment of the present invention, the analysis module 108 identifies trends and patterns in the data, and makes recommendations for process improvements and other changes as needed. This could involve developing new techniques or 20 technologies, optimizing the use of resources, or implementing changes to the project plan based on the data analysis.
[0049] The analysis module 108 analyses trends, behaviours of parameters across various assets, or various levels within same project for a detailed analysis of how a particular parameter can be 25 optimized and more output can be achieved in operations.
[0050] The analysis module 108 determines the resources used, planned, cost and time optimization of resources across various assets or different levels or phases for the same assets or any possible combination of assets, levels or phases. 30
[0051] In one embodiment of the present invention, the analysis module 108 includes data science and machine learning techniques to ensure that all the data getting fed from the reporting module 112 and planning module 104 is analysed in a pattern to provide optimized plan for future projects and assets. 35
[0052] The visualization module 110 displays the analysed data. All the combinations or systems or data analysis conducted by the analysis module 108 is displayed into a required format by the
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visualization module 110. The visualization module 110 provides any organization or company a proper output of all the modules that is the planning, reporting and analysis modules via different format and exporting the entire analysis and database to different platform as needed. 5 [0053] In the context of an energy company, the visualization module 110 displays the planned tasks and timelines alongside the actual progress of the project and also any other analysis at all levels as had been done by analysis module 108. This could involve creating graphical representations, charts, tabular formats, pictures, text 10 reports, resource utilization, and other key performance metrics, and displaying this data in an easy-to-understand format for stakeholders.
[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, the visualization module 110 creates dashboards or other tools that allow stakeholders to track the progress of the project in real-time, and to 15 adjust the project plan as needed. This could involve displaying alerts or notifications when certain metrics fall outside of expected ranges, or providing recommendations for process improvements and other changes based on the data analysis.
[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, the 20 visualization module 110 may take real time data from other sources (human or machine input) and feed the real time data to the analysis module 110 for processing and then displaying the processed data in a required format.
[0056] Overall, the visualization module 110 plays a critical role in 25 helping stakeholders understand the performance of the project and in identifying areas where improvements can be made. By providing a visual representation of the data collected during the project, the visualization module 110 can help companies optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve their overall performance. 30
[0057] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an asset tree structure, according an embodiment of the present invention.
[0058] Asset tree structure 202 includes asset types 1-M. Each asset type may have various Assets 1-N. The asset tree structure 202 typically includes asset types 1-M, with each asset type having various 35 assets 1-N. This structure is used to organize and manage the various assets.
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[0059] In context of oil and gas operations, asset can be a well. Various phases of wells are defined like – geological planning, drilling, completion, production and abandonment. The activity in each of these phases is planned, analysed and then reported as per detailed in previous modules. 5
[0060] The asset tree structure 202 may be used to organize and manage the various assets onto which any activity has been performed. For example, for an oil company, the asset can be a well onto which all the operations are being done and which is being worked throughout. For a manufacturing company, the asset can be 10 the product manufactured and all the phases t like manufacturing, assembly, finishing can be included at different levels.
[0061] The asset tree structure 202 is typically organized in a hierarchical format, with asset types at the highest level and individual assets at the lowest level. This allows stakeholders to easily navigate 15 and manage the various assets used in the operations.
[0062] Asset structure for any organization provides an organized structure to the system.
[0063] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the visualization module 110 of the unified platform 102 displaying planned versus 20 actual performance of the system i.e. contents of planning and reporting modules, according an embodiment of the present invention. ‘P’ represents planned and ‘A’ represents execution / reporting module. For example, 202-P represents planned operations and 202-A represents actually executed operations. Further, 204-P represents 25 planned duration for a task and 204-A represents actual time spent on the task. Also, 206-P represents planned parameters and 206-A represents actual parameters. Similarly, 208-P represents planned resources and 208-A represents spent resources. In this way planning and execution of various tasks with time, parameters, and resources 30 may be displayed by the visualization module 110 at a single screen and simultaneously.
[0064] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 400 for unified operations management, according an embodiment of the present invention. The method 400 is a unified method for planning, execution, 35 analysis, and reporting of the assets in operations management.
[0065] At step 402, defining a structure could refer to creating a framework for organizing and managing assets, such as a hierarchical
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structure that defines the relationship between different components of an asset system or a functional structure that outlines the roles and responsibilities of different teams or departments involved in asset management. [0066] At step 404, the unified method involves the receipt of basic 5 information and data for the structure in an oil and gas operation.
[0067] At step 406, procedural steps for each task and sub-task are defined. This involves breaking down the overall process into smaller tasks and sub-tasks, and defining a set of procedural steps for each one. 10
[0068] For example, the drilling process could be broken down into tasks such as setting up the drilling rig, drilling the wellbore, and completing the well. Each of these tasks could then be further broken down into sub-tasks, such as assembling the drilling rig, setting the drill bit, drilling the hole, and testing the well. Once the tasks and sub-15 tasks have been defined, procedural steps can be developed for each one. These procedural steps might include instructions for operating the drilling equipment, safety procedures, quality control checks, and documentation requirements.
[0069] For example, production plan can be broken into 20 production, intervention and non-production or maintenance. Each of these activities over an asset i.e., a well can be further divided into various levels of functionalities or operational steps.
[0070] For example, in a reservoir engineering discipline within oil and gas, even simulation of reservoir can be included as operational 25 steps with planning, analysing and reporting modules and the output can be included within parameters.
[0071] By defining procedural steps for each task and sub-task, the operation can be managed more effectively and efficiently, with clear guidelines for how each task should be performed. This can help to 30 reduce the risk of errors, delays, and safety incidents, and ensure that the operation or process meets its objectives in a timely and cost-effective manner.
[0072] At step 408, it is determined whether further information is required for tasks or sub-tasks. If more information is required, step 35 410 is executed. The step 410 involves reviewing the procedural steps defined in step 406 and determining whether additional information is needed to perform each task or sub-task effectively. For example, if a
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procedural step requires the use of a specific type of drilling fluid, but the exact specifications for that fluid are not included in the initial information received in step 404, further information may need to be retrieved from a database or other source. [0073] If further information is needed, the database 114 can be 5 consulted to retrieve the relevant data. This database could contain information about equipment specifications, stored resource cost and other information relevant to analyse any asset, process, level or parameter.
[0074] By ensuring that all necessary information is available 10 before each task and sub-task is performed, the operation or process can be managed more effectively and efficiently, with a reduced risk of errors and delays. This can help to ensure that the drilling operation meets its objectives and is completed in a safe, timely, and cost-effective manner. 15
[0075] If no more information is required, step 412 is executed. At step 412, report of the executed steps is generated and may be saved in the database 114. The report could include information about the procedural steps that were executed, any issues that were encountered during the drilling process, and any deviations from the 20 original plan. The report may also include information about the resources that were used, such as drilling time, equipment usage, and personnel hours.
[0076] By generating a report of the executed steps, the drilling operation can be monitored and analysed to identify areas for 25 improvement and optimize performance. The report can also be used to track progress towards the overall goals and objectives of the overall operation, and to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.
[0077] Saving the report in the database 114 can provide a 30 centralized location for all information related to the operation, making it easier to access and analyse data over time. This can help to facilitate future planning and decision-making, and support continuous improvement efforts.
[0078] At step 414, the analysis module 108 performs analysis of 35 the planned and executed tasks. The analysis module 108 may use various analytical techniques to examine the data collected during the planning and execution phases of the operation. This could include
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techniques such as statistical analysis, data mining, and machine learning, among others. [0079] The goal of the analysis is to identify patterns, trends, and insights that can be used to optimize the drilling operation and improve performance. For example, the analysis may identify areas where the 5 operation is falling short of its objectives, or highlight opportunities for improving efficiency, reducing costs, or enhancing safety.
[0080] Once the analysis is complete, the results can be used to inform future planning and decision-making. This may involve revising the original plan based on new insights, or implementing changes to 10 operational procedures or equipment to improve performance.
[0081] Overall, step 414 plays an important role in the asset management process by providing a framework for analysing data and using that analysis to drive continuous improvement. By leveraging the power of data analytics, operators can optimize their operations, 15 reduce costs, and improve safety and environmental performance and increase outputs of products.
[0082] At steps 416, output is generated in form of various reports. The reports may be shared with various stakeholders using various communication channels from the unified platform 102. The reports 20 generated in step 416 could include a wide range of information, such as performance, environmental, financial, and compliance reports.
[0083] Performance reports include information about the performance of the drilling operation, such as drilling time, efficiency, and safety statistics. Environmental reports provide information about 25 the environmental impact of the drilling operation, such as air and water quality monitoring results. Financial reports provide information about the financial performance of the drilling operation, such as costs, revenues, and profits. Compliance reports provide information about the drilling operation's compliance with regulatory requirements, such 30 as safety and environmental regulations.
[0084] Once these reports have been generated, they can be shared with various stakeholders using various communication channels from the unified platform 102. These channels could include email, text messaging, chat, or other methods of communication that 35 are appropriate for the specific stakeholders.
[0085] By sharing these reports with stakeholders, the operator can ensure that all relevant parties have access to the information they
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need to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions. This can help to improve collaboration, streamline communication, and enhance overall performance and efficiency. [0086] In one embodiment of the present invention, a system (100) for operations management is disclosed. 5
[0087] The system (100) comprising a database (114) for storing information, the database (114) communicatively coupled to a unified platform (102). The unified platform comprises a memory capable of storing data and instructions and a processor capable of accessing the database and executing instructions stored in the memory. The 10 processor executes a planning module (104) for planning one or more tasks; an execution module (106) for executing the one or more tasks; an analysis module (108) for comparing the planned tasks and executed tasks on one or more factors; a visualization module (110) for displaying the results of the analysis module (108) on a display 15 device; and a reporting module (112) for reporting the results of the analysis module (108) to one or more entities.
[0088] In one embodiment, the information stored in the database (114) relates to the planning, execution, analysis, visualization and reporting of the tasks. In one embodiment, the planning module (104) 20 includes a user interface for inputting task details and generating a task plan. In one embodiment, the execution module (106) includes a workflow engine for coordinating the execution of tasks and managing task dependencies. In one embodiment, the analysis module (108) includes machine learning algorithms for identifying patterns and 25 trends in task performance data. In one embodiment, the reporting module (112) includes customizable report templates for generating reports that meet the needs of different stakeholders.
[0089] In one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operations management is disclosed. A computer-implemented 30 method for operations management in an oil and gas operation, the method comprising planning one or more tasks; executing the one or more tasks; comparing the planned tasks and executed tasks on one or more factors; displaying the results of the analysis module (108) on a display device; and reporting the results of the analysis module (108) 35 to one or more entities.
[0090] In one embodiment, the executing step includes using a workflow engine on the unified platform to coordinate the execution of
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tasks and manage task dependencies. In one embodiment, the comparing step includes using machine learning algorithms on the unified platform to identify patterns and trends in task performance data. In one embodiment, the displaying step includes using a customizable dashboard on the unified platform to present the results 5 of the analysis module in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand format. [0091]
While certain embodiments of the present invention have been described above and illustrated in the drawings, there might be many other embodiments and variations of the present invention which 10 are to be considered to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention and defined by the following claims. , Claims:1. A system (100) for operations management, the system (100) comprising:
a database (114) for storing information, the database (114) 5 communicatively coupled to a unified platform (102);
the unified platform comprising:
a memory capable of storing data and instructions;
a processor capable of accessing the database and executing instructions stored in the memory, the processor 10 executing:
a planning module (104) for planning one or more tasks;
an execution module (106) for executing the one or more tasks; 15
an analysis module (108) for comparing the planned tasks and executed tasks on one or more factors;
a visualization module (110) for displaying the results of the analysis module (108) on a display 20 device; and
a reporting module (112) for reporting the results of the analysis module (108) to one or more entities.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the information stored in the database (114) relates to the planning, execution, analysis, 25 visualization and reporting of the tasks.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the planning module (104) includes a user interface for inputting task details and generating a task plan.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the execution module 30 (106) includes a workflow engine for coordinating the execution of tasks and managing task dependencies.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the analysis module (108) includes machine learning algorithms for identifying patterns and trends in task performance data. 35
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reporting module (112) includes customizable report templates for generating reports that meet the needs of different stakeholders.
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7. A computer-implemented method for operations management in an oil and gas operation, the method comprising:
planning one or more tasks;
executing the one or more tasks;
comparing the planned tasks and executed tasks on one or 5 more factors;
displaying the results of the analysis module (108) on a display device; and
reporting the results of the analysis module (108) to one or more entities. 10
8. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the executing step includes using a workflow engine on the unified platform to coordinate the execution of tasks and manage task dependencies.
9. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the comparing step 15 includes using machine learning algorithms on the unified platform to identify patterns and trends in task performance data.
10. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the displaying step includes using a customizable dashboard on the unified platform to present the results of the analysis module in a visually 20 appealing and easy-to-understand format.
Dated this 25th day of July, 2023.
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/ Digitally Signed /
Manish Kumar Yadav
Agent for Applicant
Reg. No: IN / PA 2258
Mob: 8755697149 30
E.: manish.patentagent@gmail.com