Patents by Inventor Michael L. Connell
Michael L. Connell 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: 10513900Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2015Date of Patent: December 24, 2019Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Andrew M. Ferguson, Michael L. Connell
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Patent number: 9447663Abstract: An abrasive perforator tool with a bypass flow channel. The tool comprises a tubular body or housing with perforating nozzles in the sidewall. A sleeve assembly inside the central bore of the tool provides for sequential deployment of first and second sleeves. Prior to deployment of the sleeve assembly, pressurized fluid can be passed through the tool to operate other tools beneath the perforator in the bottom hole assembly. Deployment of the first sleeve diverts pressurized fluid through the nozzles for perforating. Deployment of the second sleeve redirects the pressurized flow through the outlet of the tool to resume operation of other tools below the perforator.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2014Date of Patent: September 20, 2016Assignee: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Robert J. Farkas
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Patent number: 9212522Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations, especially in horizontal wells. The shape, frequency and duration of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths, through which flow may be parallel or sequential. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill string and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2011Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 9194181Abstract: A motor and rotor catch assembly for preventing loss of broken motor parts downhole. The assembly comprises a motor including a rotor supported inside a stator housing. A rotor bolt is connected to the upper end of the rotor, and is supported for axial movement within a rotor bolt housing from a running position to a deployed position. If the stator housing breaks or backs off, the attached rotor bolt shifts to the deployed position. In the deployed position, the bolt substantially reduces flow to the stator housing and simultaneously opens bypass ports to vent fluid to the annulus instead. In this way, the rotor is prevented from spinning rapidly, the diverted fluid creates a pressure change that alerts the operator to the motor failure, and the diverted fluid allows continued removal of debris and cuttings from the well bore.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2012Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson, Roger L. Schultz, Brett A. Fears, Robert J. Farkas
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Patent number: 8905125Abstract: An abrasive perforator tool with a bypass flow channel. The tool comprises a tubular body or housing with perforating nozzles in the sidewall. A sleeve assembly inside the central bore of the tool provides for sequential deployment of first and second sleeves. Prior to deployment of the sleeve assembly, pressurized fluid can be passed through the tool to operate other tools beneath the perforator in the bottom hole assembly. Deployment of the first sleeve diverts pressurized fluid through the nozzles for perforating. Deployment of the second sleeve redirects the pressurized flow through the outlet of the tool to resume operation of other tools below the perforator.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2013Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Robert J. Farkas
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Publication number: 20140060936Abstract: A motor and rotor catch assembly for preventing loss of broken motor parts downhole. The assembly comprises a motor including a rotor supported inside a stator housing. A rotor bolt is connected to the upper end of the rotor, and is supported for axial movement within a rotor bolt housing from a running position to a deployed position. If the stator housing breaks or backs off, the attached rotor bolt shifts to the deployed position. In the deployed position, the bolt substantially reduces flow to the stator housing and simultaneously opens bypass ports to vent fluid to the annulus instead. In this way, the rotor is prevented from spinning rapidly, the diverted fluid creates a pressure change that alerts the operator to the motor failure, and the diverted fluid allows continued removal of debris and cuttings from the well bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2012Publication date: March 6, 2014Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson, Roger L. Schultz, Brett A. Fears, Robert J. Farkas
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Patent number: 8550155Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering repetitive jarring impacts to a stuck object downhole. The jarring tool is deployed on coiled tubing or other tubular well conduit, and fluid pressure is used to cycle the jar without reciprocating the well conduit at the wellhead. The tool includes a hydraulic reset assembly. The hydraulic chamber is in fluid communication with the flow path through the tool. Thus, when the internal fluid pressure inside the tool exceeds the external pressure in the well, the fluid pressure drives the piston in the hydraulic chamber to urge the tool toward the contracted position. In this way, the reset assembly can overcome the tendency of fluid pressure to extend the tool. The reset assembly can be configured to balance or equalize the extension pressure, to prevent undesired cocking of the tool, or to overcome the extension pressure to contract the tool for recocking the jar mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2011Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Andrew M. Ferguson, Michael L. Connell
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Patent number: 8517105Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2012Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8517108Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2012Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8517107Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2012Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8517106Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2012Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8453745Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8448700Abstract: An abrasive perforator tool with a bypass flow channel. The tool comprises a tubular body or housing with perforating nozzles in the sidewall. A sleeve assembly inside the central bore of the tool provides for sequential deployment of first and second sleeves. Prior to deployment of the sleeve assembly, pressurized fluid can be passed through the tool to operate other tools beneath the perforator in the bottom hole assembly. Deployment of the first sleeve diverts pressurized fluid through the nozzles for perforating. Deployment of the second sleeve redirects the pressurized flow through the outlet of the tool to resume operation of other tools below the perforator.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2010Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Robert J. Farkas
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Patent number: 8439117Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8381817Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill string and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2012Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Patent number: 8365818Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering repetitive jarring impacts to a stuck object downhole. The jarring tool is deployed on coiled tubing or other tubular well conduit, and fluid pressure is used to cycle the jar without reciprocating the well conduit at the wellhead. A hydraulic reset assembly is included. The hydraulic chamber is in fluid communication with the flow path through the tool. Thus, when the internal fluid pressure inside the tool exceeds the external pressure in the well, the fluid pressure drives the piston in the hydraulic chamber to urge the tool toward the contracted position. In this way, the reset assembly can overcome the tendency of fluid pressure to extend the tool. The reset assembly can be configured to equalize the extension pressure, to prevent undesired cocking of the tool, or to overcome the extension pressure to contract the tool for recocking the jar mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2012Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Andrew M. Ferguson, Michael L. Connell
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Publication number: 20130000909Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering repetitive jarring impacts to a stuck object downhole. The jarring tool is deployed on coiled tubing or other tubular well conduit, and fluid pressure is used to cycle the jar without reciprocating the well conduit at the wellhead. A hydraulic reset assembly is included. The hydraulic chamber is in fluid communication with the flow path through the tool. Thus, when the internal fluid pressure inside the tool exceeds the external pressure in the well, the fluid pressure drives the piston in the hydraulic chamber to urge the tool toward the contracted position. In this way, the reset assembly can overcome the tendency of fluid pressure to extend the tool. The reset assembly can be configured to equalize the extension pressure, to prevent undesired cocking of the tool, or to overcome the extension pressure to contract the tool for recocking the jar mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Andrew M. Ferguson, Michael L. Connell
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Publication number: 20120292017Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Publication number: 20120292019Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicant: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
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Publication number: 20120292116Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicant: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson