Abstract: A central control system is described that affords intuitive and easy control of numerous subsystems associated with a police car or other emergency vehicle and reduces the cockpit clutter associated with present control systems. A single user interface device is associated with a central controller capable of receiving input commands and outputting device control commands to a plurality of controlled devices or subsystems. Preferably, the central controller comprises a programmable digital computer. An emergency response system is also described which rapidly coordinates and controls operation of a plurality of emergency subsystems associated with the vehicle in accordance with a predetermined scheme of operation for the devices. In one preferred embodiment, the controller receives a single input command and, in response, provides specific device control commands to several individual controlled devices on a relatively simultaneous basis.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 18, 2001
Date of Patent:
June 25, 2002
Assignee:
Texas A&M University Systems
Inventors:
Joseph Morgan, Johnny R. Hausman, Shawn Chilek, Greg Hubenak, David Kappler, John Witz, George B. Wright
Abstract: An improved method and apparatus are provided for orienting a particular well completion in accordance with azimuths determined with respect to magnetic north. The invention permits the perforating gun of a wireline tool to be properly oriented in either a vertical or non-vertical wellbore. A wireline tool is described whose lower section contains a gun section and is rotatably joined to the upper section and may be rotated about a swivel joint assembly to move independently of the upper section and in accordance with an orienting means. The rotation may be accomplished by mechanical, hydraulic or electrical means of imparting rotation. In addition, preferred embodiments of the invention include a distant display such that operators may verify directional orientation of charges prior to initiating them. Alternative embodiments are provided for practicing the invention using multiple passes into the well which involve less risk of damage to portions of the well tool.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 11, 1992
Date of Patent:
November 9, 1993
Assignee:
Halliburton Company
Inventors:
James J. Venditto, David E. McMechan, Calvin Kessler, Harold E. Peelman