Patents by Inventor Kevin R. George
Kevin R. George has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 10612340Abstract: A wellbore plug isolation system and method for positioning plugs to isolate fracture zones in a horizontal, vertical, or deviated wellbore is disclosed. The system/method includes a wellbore casing laterally drilled into a hydrocarbon formation, a wellbore setting tool (WST) that sets a large inner diameter (ID) restriction sleeve member (RSM), and a restriction plug element (RPE). The WST is positioned along with the RSM at a desired wellbore location. After the WST sets and seals the RSM, a conforming seating surface (CSS) is formed in the RSM. The CSS is shaped to engage/receive RPE deployed into the wellbore casing. The engaged/seated RPE isolates heel ward and toe ward fluid communication of the RSM to create a fracture zone. The RPE's are removed or left behind prior to initiating well production without the need for a milling procedure. A large ID RSM diminishes flow constriction during oil production.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2018Date of Patent: April 7, 2020Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Philip Martin Snider, Kevin R. George, John T. Hardesty, Michael D. Wroblicky, Nathan G. Clark, James A. Rollins, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 10480276Abstract: A wellbore plug isolation system and method for positioning plugs to isolate fracture zones in a horizontal, vertical, or deviated wellbore is disclosed. The system/method includes a wellbore casing laterally drilled into a hydrocarbon formation, a wellbore setting tool (WST) that sets a large inner diameter (ID) restriction sleeve member (RSM), and a restriction plug element (RPE). The WST is positioned along with the RSM at a desired wellbore location. After the WST sets and seals the RSM, a conforming seating surface (CSS) is formed in the RSM. The CSS is shaped to engage/receive RPE deployed into the wellbore casing. The engaged/seated RPE isolates heel ward and toe ward fluid communication of the RSM to create a fracture zone. The RPE's are removed or left behind prior to initiating well production without the need for a milling procedure. A large ID RSM diminishes flow constriction during oil production.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2017Date of Patent: November 19, 2019Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Philip Martin Snider, Kevin R. George, John T. Hardesty, Michael D. Wroblicky, Nathan G. Clark, James A. Rollins, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 10294752Abstract: A catch-and-release tool conveyed with a well casing for use in a wellbore comprising an outer housing having flow ports therethrough, a functioning apparatus disposed within the outer housing comprising a movable member/sleeve and a holding device, and a blocking apparatus comprising a blocking member configured to block the flow ports in a first position. When a ball deployed into the well casing passes through the tool in a downstream direction and moves back in an upstream direction, the restriction element engages onto the holding device and moves the movable member such that a port is exposed to up hold pressure and the blocking member travels to a second position in a reverse direction unblocking flow ports and enabling fluid communication to the wellbore. The ball is thereafter released in an upstream direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2016Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Dennis E. Roessler, Varun Garg, John T. Hardesty, Kevin R. George, Raymond C. Shaffer, Philip M. Snider, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 10253597Abstract: A time delay tool and method includes a mechanical restraining element, a reservoir for containing a reactive fluid, an actuating device and a wellbore device. When a stored energy is applied on the wellbore device, the actuation device is actuated and enables the reactive fluid in the reservoir to come in contact with the mechanical restraining element. While the mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape due to a chemical reaction, a stored energy applied on the wellbore device is delayed by a pre-determined time delay. The amount of the pre-determined time delay is determined by factors that include the reactive fluids, concentration of the reactive fluids, geometry and size of the mechanical restraining element.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2016Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: John T Hardesty, Dennis Roessler, Kevin R George
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Patent number: 10221654Abstract: An arming apparatus for arming a downhole tool in a wellbore casing comprising an arming member and a holding device. The arming member is disposed within an outer housing of the downhole tool and the holding device is mechanically coupled to the arming member. When a ball deployed into the wellbore casing passes through the downhole tool in a downhole direction and moves back in an uphole direction due to reverse flow, the ball engages on the holding device and functions the arming member such that a pressure actuating device in the downhole tool is armed.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2016Date of Patent: March 5, 2019Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Dennis E. Roessler, Varun Garg, Kevin R. George, Michael D. Wroblicky, Raymond C. Shaffer, John T. Hardesty, Philip M. Snider, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 10208570Abstract: A time delay tool and method in a wellbore casing is disclosed. The tool/method includes a mechanical restraining element, a reservoir for containing a reactive fluid, an actuating device and a wellbore device. When a stored energy is applied on the wellbore device, the actuation device is actuated and enables the reactive fluid in the reservoir to come in contact with the mechanical restraining element. While the mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape due to a chemical reaction, a stored energy applied on the wellbore device is delayed by a pre-determined time delay. The amount of the pre-determined time delay is determined by factors that include the reactive fluids, concentration of the reactive fluids, geometry and size of the mechanical restraining element.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2016Date of Patent: February 19, 2019Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: John T Hardesty, Dennis Roessler, Kevin R George
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Patent number: 10184319Abstract: A seat forming apparatus for use in a downhole tool comprising a driving member and a seating restriction. The driving member and the seating restriction are mechanically disposed within an outer housing of the downhole tool. When the driving member drives into the seating restriction, the seating restriction or the driving member bend or buckle inwards to form a seat in the downhole tool. The inner diameter of the seat is configured to allow a restriction element to be seated in the seat.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2016Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: John T. Hardesty, Raymond C. Shaffer, Dennis E. Roessler, Varun Garg, Kevin R. George, Philip M. Snider, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 10156126Abstract: A time delay tool and method in a wellbore casing is disclosed. The tool/method includes a mechanical restraining element, a reservoir for containing a reactive fluid, an actuating device and a wellbore device. When a stored energy is applied on the wellbore device, the actuation device is actuated and enables the reactive fluid in the reservoir to come in contact with the mechanical restraining element. While the mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape due to a chemical reaction, a stored energy applied on the wellbore device is delayed by a pre-determined time delay. The amount of the pre-determined time delay is determined by factors that include the reactive fluids, concentration of the reactive fluids, geometry and size of the mechanical restraining element.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2016Date of Patent: December 18, 2018Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: John T Hardesty, Dennis Roessler, Kevin R George
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Patent number: 10138725Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a time delay in injection of pressured fluid into a geologic formation. In one aspect the invention is a toe valve activated by fluid pressure that opens ports after a predetermined time interval to allow fluid to pass from a well casing to a formation. The controlled time delay enables casing integrity testing before fluid is passed through the ports. This time delay also allows multiple valves to be used in the same well casing and provide a focused jetting action to better penetrate a concrete casing lining.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: November 27, 2018Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Kevin R. George, Philip M. Snider, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 10066461Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a time delay in injection of pressured fluid into a geologic formation. In one aspect the invention is a toe valve activated by fluid pressure that opens ports after a predetermined time interval to allow fluid to pass from a well casing to a formation. The controlled time delay enables casing integrity testing before fluid is passed through the ports. This time delay also allows multiple valves to be used in the same well casing and provide a focused jetting action to better penetrate a concrete casing lining.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: September 4, 2018Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: John T. Hardesty, Kevin R. George, Philip M. Snider
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Publication number: 20180171741Abstract: A wellbore plug isolation system and method for positioning plugs to isolate fracture zones in a horizontal, vertical, or deviated wellbore is disclosed. The system/method includes a wellbore casing laterally drilled into a hydrocarbon formation, a wellbore setting tool (WST) that sets a large inner diameter (ID) restriction sleeve member (RSM), and a restriction plug element (RPE). The WST is positioned along with the RSM at a desired wellbore location. After the WST sets and seals the RSM, a conforming seating surface (CSS) is formed in the RSM. The CSS is shaped to engage/receive RPE deployed into the wellbore casing. The engaged/seated RPE isolates heel ward and toe ward fluid communication of the RSM to create a fracture zone. The RPE's are removed or left behind prior to initiating well production without the need for a milling procedure. A large ID RSM diminishes flow constriction during oil production.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Philip Martin Snider, Kevin R. George, John T. Hardesty, Michael D. Wroblicky, Nathan G. Clark, James A. Rollins, David S. Wesson
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Publication number: 20180142528Abstract: An efficient wiper plug seal integrity system and method for deviated/horizontal wellbore is disclosed. The system/method includes a wellbore casing installed into a wellbore along with restriction elements, a secondary engagement sub, a float collar and a shoe. A wiper plug is deployed into the wellbore casing after cement slurry is pumped into the wellbore casing. The secondary engagement sub provides a tapered entry guide directly above the float collar. The entry guide has a reduced inside diameter that serves to enhance the sealing integrity of the wiper plug and also aligns the wiper plug to properly latch into a locked position. In another system, a stepped diameter wiper plug with a reduced nose is disclosed. The reduced nose provides for an improved seal integrity that fits and latches into a smaller internal diameter secondary engagement sub.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2017Publication date: May 24, 2018Applicant: GEODynamics, Inc.Inventors: Kevin R. George, Raymond C. Shaffer
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Publication number: 20180087343Abstract: A wellbore plug isolation system and method for positioning plugs to isolate fracture zones in a horizontal, vertical, or deviated wellbore is disclosed. The system/method includes a wellbore casing laterally drilled into a hydrocarbon formation, a wellbore setting tool (WST) that sets a large inner diameter (ID) restriction sleeve member (RSM), and a restriction plug element (RPE). The WST is positioned along with the RSM at a desired wellbore location. After the WST sets and seals the RSM, a conforming seating surface (CSS) is formed in the RSM. The CSS is shaped to engage/receive RPE deployed into the wellbore casing. The engaged/seated RPE isolates heel ward and toe ward fluid communication of the RSM to create a fracture zone. The RPE's are removed or left behind prior to initiating well production without the need for a milling procedure. A large ID RSM diminishes flow constriction during oil production.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2017Publication date: March 29, 2018Applicant: GEODynamics, Inc.Inventors: Kevin R. George, John T. Hardesty
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Patent number: 9835006Abstract: A wellbore plug isolation system and method for positioning plugs to isolate fracture zones in a horizontal, vertical, or deviated wellbore is disclosed. The system/method includes a wellbore casing laterally drilled into a hydrocarbon formation, a wellbore setting tool (WST) that sets a large inner diameter (ID) restriction sleeve member (RSM), and a restriction plug element (RPE). The WST is positioned along with the RSM at a desired wellbore location. After the WST sets and seals the RSM, a conforming seating surface (CSS) is formed in the RSM. The CSS is shaped to engage/receive RPE deployed into the wellbore casing. The engaged/seated RPE isolates heel ward and toe ward fluid communication of the RSM to create a fracture zone. The RPE's are removed or left behind prior to initiating well production without the need for a milling procedure. A large ID RSM diminishes flow constriction during oil production.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Kevin R. George, John T. Hardesty
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Publication number: 20170247988Abstract: A time delay tool and method in a wellbore casing is disclosed. The tool/method includes a mechanical restraining element, a reservoir for containing a reactive fluid, an actuating device and a wellbore device. When a stored energy is applied on the wellbore device, the actuation device is actuated and enables the reactive fluid in the reservoir to come in contact with the mechanical restraining element. While the mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape due to a chemical reaction, a stored energy applied on the wellbore device is delayed by a pre-determined time delay. The amount of the pre-determined time delay is determined by factors that include the reactive fluids, concentration of the reactive fluids, geometry and size of the mechanical restraining element.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2016Publication date: August 31, 2017Applicant: GEODynamics, Inc.Inventors: John T Hardesty, Dennis Roessler, Kevin R George
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Publication number: 20170247977Abstract: A time delay tool and method includes a mechanical restraining element, a reservoir for containing a reactive fluid, an actuating device and a wellbore device. When a stored energy is applied on the wellbore device, the actuation device is actuated and enables the reactive fluid in the reservoir to come in contact with the mechanical restraining element. While the mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape due to a chemical reaction, a stored energy applied on the wellbore device is delayed by a pre-determined time delay. The amount of the pre-determined time delay is determined by factors that include the reactive fluids, concentration of the reactive fluids, geometry and size of the mechanical restraining element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2016Publication date: August 31, 2017Applicant: GEODynamics, Inc.Inventors: John T. Hardesty, Dennis Roessler, Kevin R. George
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Publication number: 20170247982Abstract: A time delay tool and method in a wellbore casing is disclosed. The tool/method includes a mechanical restraining element, a reservoir for containing a reactive fluid, an actuating device and a wellbore device. When a stored energy is applied on the wellbore device, the actuation device is actuated and enables the reactive fluid in the reservoir to come in contact with the mechanical restraining element. While the mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape due to a chemical reaction, a stored energy applied on the wellbore device is delayed by a pre-determined time delay. The amount of the pre-determined time delay is determined by factors that include the reactive fluids, concentration of the reactive fluids, geometry and size of the mechanical restraining element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2016Publication date: August 31, 2017Applicant: GEODynamics, Inc.Inventors: John T Hardesty, Dennis Roessler, Kevin R George
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Patent number: 9689232Abstract: An actuating apparatus for actuating a downhole tool in a wellbore casing comprising an actuating member and a holding device. The actuating member disposed within an outer housing of the downhole tool and the holding device mechanically coupled to the arming member. When a ball deployed into the wellbore casing passes through the downhole tool in a downhole direction and moves back in an uphole direction due to reverse flow, the ball engages on the holding device and functions the actuating member such that a port in the downhole tool is exposed to uphole pressure and actuates the actuating member to travel in an uphole direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2016Date of Patent: June 27, 2017Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: John T. Hardesty, Kevin R. George, Raymond C. Shaffer, Michael D. Wroblicky, Dennis E. Roessler, Varun Garg, Philip M. Snider, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 9650866Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a time delay in injection of pressured fluid into a geologic formation. The apparatus comprises a toe valve activated by fluid pressure that opens ports after a predetermined time interval to allow fluid to pass from a well casing to a formation. The controlled time delay enables casing integrity testing before fluid is passed through the ports. This time delay also allows multiple valves to be used in the same well casing and provide a focused jetting action to better penetrate a concrete casing lining.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Kevin R. George, James A. Rollins, John T. Hardesty, David S. Wesson
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Patent number: 9617826Abstract: A catch-and-engage tool conveyed with a well casing for use in a wellbore comprising an outer housing having flow ports therethrough, a functioning apparatus disposed within the outer housing comprising a movable member/sleeve and a holding device, a blocking apparatus disposed within the outer housing comprising a blocking member configured to block one or more flow ports in a first position, a seating apparatus positioned upstream of the blocking apparatus configured to form a seat in the tool. When a ball deployed into the well casing passes through the tool in a downstream direction and moves back in an upstream direction, the restriction element engages onto the holding device and moves the movable member such that a port in exposed to uphole pressure and the blocking member travels to a second position in a reverse direction unblocking flow ports and enabling fluid communication to the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2016Date of Patent: April 11, 2017Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.Inventors: Dennis E. Roessler, Kevin R. George, Varun Garg, John T. Hardesty, Raymond C. Shaffer, Philip M. Snider, David S. Wesson