Abstract: Provided are machine learning models that generate geometry-free neural scene representations through efficient object-centric novel-view synthesis. In particular, one example aspect of the present disclosure provides a novel framework in which an encoder model (e.g., an encoder transformer network) processes one or more RGB images (with or without pose) to produce a fully latent scene representation that can be passed to a decoder model (e.g., a decoder transformer network). Given one or more target poses, the decoder model can synthesize images in a single forward pass. In some example implementations, because transformers are used rather than convolutional or MLP networks, the encoder can learn an attention model that extracts enough 3D information about a scene from a small set of images to render novel views with correct projections, parallax, occlusions, and even semantics, without explicit geometry.

Abstract: A rotating pulse valve for use in a mud pulse telemetry system is presented. In accordance with the invention, a valve is diametrically mounted in a channel of a segment of a drill string wherein drilling fluids flows. The valve comprises blades which are configured so as to be impelled (i.e., rotated) by the flow of the drilling fluid. An escapement mechanism is employed to restrain the valve in selected positions thereby at least partially obstructing the flow of the drilling fluid which results in generating positive pressure pulses or waves in the drilling fluid in response to downhole conditions.

Abstract: An MWD tool includes a mud pulse generator for operation in an upper section of borehole, a sensor portion for operating close to the drill bit in a deep small diameter section of the borehole and a connector portion running inside the drill pipe for conducting output signals of the sensor portion to the mud pulse generator for subsequent transmission to a receiver at the surface of the borehole.

Abstract: A method of acoustically trasmitting data signals over a drillstring is presented. In accordance with the present invention, acoustic data is transmitted only during preselected short time intervals thereby avoiding destructive interference caused by the signal being reflected back and forth from the ends of the drillstring. The present invention makes use of the fact that the first reflective wave has to travel three times the length of the drillstring before it can interfere with the original data signal. For example, the time for the first wave to travel three times the length of the drillstring can be in the order of one second. Therefore, if the data content of the transmission signal is confined to the first one second or so of transmission, then a transmission channel relatively free of interference is available for data transfer.

Abstract: Downhole measurements are made for accurately determining whether or not a core barrel contains an appropriate amount of core sample before retrieval of the coring tool is attempted. This is accomplished by using a known apparatus for measuring downhole weight on bit (WOB) at the beginning of a coring run to make a first measurement corresponding to the weight of all drillstring components suspended below the measurement point at a selected depth. Thereafter, the coring tool drills down the length of the core barrel. When sufficient drilling takes place to obtain a core, the drillstring is pulled up to the same depth as the measurement and a second measurement is taken. After correcting the data for temperature changes, the difference in between the first and second measurements is obtained and compared to a calculated weight for a full core.

Abstract: A device for detecting and sensing the boundaries between differing rock strata is provided. This device utilizes electrical conductivity or resistivity to detect and measure the boundary layer. The device of the present invention may be used with a "measurement-while-drilling" (MWD) tool, using either wire-line or wireless data communication with a surface receiver. Moreover, the resistivity or conductivity detection device of the present invention may also be used alone or in conjunction with gamma radiation sensors. The present invention utilizes at least a pair of electrodes which occupy a small area and are located on one side of the tool aligned with the longitudinal axis thereof. Thus, in drilling a well along a specific formation stratum (which may be horizontal or inclined), the present invention will act to indicate to the driller whether the drill bit is approaching a stratum boundary, and in which direction that boundary lies.

Abstract: A vibration isolator and shock absorber device is presented wherein elastomeric vibration isolation elements interact with reaction elements to form differential springs, i.e., springs in which the deflection and load characteristics change with load. In the present invention, the load characteristics change from shear at low loading to compression at high loading, with a smooth transition between shear and compression.

Abstract: A centrifugal type impeller pump has a restricting valve to control the inlet area of the collector for reducing recirculating flow from the collector to the impeller. The restricting valve includes a ring mounted upon the pump housing for rotary and axial motion. Rotary motion is imparted to the ring by an actuator. Cam slots in the ring and pins secured to the housing produce axial motion of the ring as the ring rotates. Precise positioning of the ring is possible because large motions of the actuator can be utilized to provide small changes in ring position. The axial position of the ring is determinative of the inlet area of the collector.