Patents by Inventor Michael Nikolaou

Michael Nikolaou 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).

  • Publication number: 20230044633
    Abstract: An optical based method determines the most clinically effective antimicrobial agent treatment for a subject afflicted with a microbial infection, including those subjects that have developed resistance to said microbial agents. The provided method is based on the ability to discriminate between live and dead microbes growing in a culture medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2020
    Publication date: February 9, 2023
    Inventors: Michael NIKOLAOU, Vincent H. TAM, Iordanis KESISOGLOU
  • Patent number: 11078774
    Abstract: The electrical submersible pump (ESP) is currently the fastest growing artificial-lift pumping technology. Deployed across 15 to 20 percent of oil-wells worldwide, ESPs are an efficient and reliable option at high production volumes and greater depths. However, ESP performance is often observed to decline gradually and reach the point of service interruption due to factors like high gas volumes, high temperature, and corrosion. The financial impact of ESP failure is substantial, from both lost production and replacement costs. Therefore, ESP performance in extensively monitored, and numerous workflows exist to suggest actions in case of break-downs. However, such workflows are reactive in nature, i.e., action is taken after tripping or failure. Therefore, a data-driven analytical framework is proposed to advance towards a proactive approach to ESP health monitoring based on predictive analytics to detect impending problems, diagnose their cause, and prescribe preventive action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignees: University of Houston System, Frontender Corporation, Halliburton
    Inventors: Supriya Gupta, Michael Nikolaou, Luigi Saputelli, Cesar Bravo
  • Publication number: 20200325766
    Abstract: The electrical submersible pump (ESP) is currently the fastest growing artificial-lift pumping technology. Deployed across 15 to 20 percent of oil-wells worldwide, ESPs are an efficient and reliable option at high production volumes and greater depths. However, ESP performance is often observed to decline gradually and reach the point of service interruption due to factors like high gas volumes, high temperature, and corrosion. The financial impact of ESP failure is substantial, from both lost production and replacement costs. Therefore, ESP performance in extensively monitored, and numerous workflows exist to suggest actions in case of break-downs. However, such workflows are reactive in nature, i.e., action is taken after tripping or failure. Therefore, a data-driven analytical framework is proposed to advance towards a proactive approach to ESP health monitoring based on predictive analytics to detect impending problems, diagnose their cause, and prescribe preventive action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Publication date: October 15, 2020
    Applicants: University of Houston System, Frontender Corporation, Halliburton
    Inventors: Supriya Gupta, Michael Nikolaou, Luigi Saputelli, Cesar Bravo
  • Patent number: 10354207
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimization of real time production operations. In one embodiment, a moving time horizon based parametric model provides fast predictions for production optimization in a short-term framework. In another embodiment, multiple technologies are selected in connection with asset performance workflows that are uniquely implemented in a multi-phase approach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Landmark Graphics Corporation
    Inventors: Gerardo Mijares, Alejandro Garcia, Sathish Sankaran, Jose Rodriguez, Luigi Saputelli, Ankur Awasthi, Michael Nikolaou
  • Publication number: 20160004800
    Abstract: The present disclosure presents methods and apparatuses for forecasting geological formation production data. For example, some example methods include identifying an array of parameter sets, determining a fitting error between a first set of the historical production data and modeled production data, wherein the modeled production data is obtained through execution of a simulation model based on each parameter set of the array, determining a validation error between a second set of the historical production data and extrapolated production data for each parameter set of the array, determining a combined error for each parameter set of the array based on the fitting error and the validation error, and identifying an optimal parameter set size for modeling the target geological region, wherein the optimal parameter set size is determined in reference to a minimum combined error of the combined errors determined for each parameter set of the array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 7, 2016
    Inventors: Ajay Pratap Singh, Michael Nikolaou, Luigi Saputelli, Marko Maucec
  • Publication number: 20140011762
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods and computer-implemented systems for using computer simulations to predict likelihood of a cell population associated with a pathophysiological condition acquiring resistance to a therapeutic agent, to screen for therapeutic agents effective to suppress acquisition of resistance within a cell population and to treat the pathophysiological conditions associated therewith. The computer simulation comprises at least an input/out system and a mathematical model, including operably linked equations, parameter values and constant values, of growth response over a period of time of a cell population in contact with an therapeutic agent. Also provide is a method for determining a best-fit mathematical model of adaptation of a microbial population to a therapeutic agent over time and using the model to simulate microbial population behavior to a therapeutic agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Vincent H. Tam, Michael Nikolaou
  • Patent number: 8452543
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods and computer-implemented systems for using computer simulations to predict likelihood of a cell population associated with a pathophysiological condition acquiring resistance to a therapeutic agent, to screen for therapeutic agents effective to suppress acquisition of resistance within a cell population and to treat the pathophysiological conditions associated therewith. The computer simulation comprises at least an input/out system and a mathematical model, including operably linked equations, parameter values and constant values, of growth response over a period of time of a cell population in contact with an therapeutic agent. Also provide is a method for determining a best-fit mathematical model of adaptation of a microbial population to a therapeutic agent over time and using the model to simulate microbial population behavior to a therapeutic agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: The University of Houston System
    Inventors: Vincent H. Tam, Michael Nikolaou
  • Patent number: 8396826
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimization of real time production operations. In one embodiment, a moving time horizon based parametric model provides fast predictions for production optimization in a short-term framework. In another embodiment, multiple technologies are selected in connection with asset performance workflows that are uniquely implemented in a multi-phase approach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Landmark Graphics Corporation
    Inventors: Gerardo Mijares, Alejandro Garcia, Sathish Sankaran, Jose Rodriguez, Luigi Saputelli, Ankur Awasthi, Michael Nikolaou
  • Publication number: 20120215502
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimization of real time production operations. In one embodiment, a moving time horizon based parametric model provides fast predictions for production optimization in a short-term framework. In another embodiment, multiple technologies are selected in connection with asset performance workflows that are uniquely implemented in a multi-phase approach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: Landmark Graphics Corporation
    Inventors: Gerardo Mijares, Alejandro Garcia, Sathish Sankaran, Jose Rodriguez, Luigi Saputelli, Ankur Awasthi, Michael Nikolaou
  • Publication number: 20100292964
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods and computer-implemented systems for using computer simulations to predict likelihood of a cell population associated with a pathophysiological condition acquiring resistance to a therapeutic agent, to screen for therapeutic agents effective to suppress acquisition of resistance within a cell population and to treat the pathophysiological conditions associated therewith. The computer simulation comprises at least an input/out system and a mathematical model, including operably linked equations, parameter values and constant values, of growth response over a period of tune of a cell population in contact with an therapeutic agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Vincent H Tam, Michael Nikolaou
  • Publication number: 20090157590
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimization of real time production operations. In one embodiment, a moving time horizon based parametric model provides fast predictions for production optimization in a short-term framework. In another embodiment, multiple technologies are selected in connection with asset performance workflows that are uniquely implemented in a multi-phase approach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: Landmark Graphics Corporation, a Halliburton Company
    Inventors: Gerardo Mijares, Alejandro Garcia, Sathish Sankaran, Jose Rodriguez, Luigi Saputelli, Ankur Awasthi, Michael Nikolaou
  • Patent number: 7006918
    Abstract: A method for the measurement of the stresses and pressure perturbations surrounding a well, and a system for computing the optimum location for initiating a hydraulic stress fracture. The technique includes using sensors attached to the wellbore casing connected to a data analyzer. The analyzer is capable of analyzing the stresses on the well system. Using an inverse problem framework for an open-hole situation, the far field stresses and well departure angle are determined once the pressure perturbations and stresses are measured on the wellbore casing. The number of wellbore measurements needed for the inverse problem solution also is determined. The technique is also capable of determining the optimal location for inducing a hydraulic fracture, the effect of noisy measurements on the accuracy of the results, and assessing the quality of a bond between a casing and a sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: University of Houston
    Inventors: Michael J. Economides, Wolfgang F. J. Deeg, Peter Valko, Michael Nikolaou, Sathish Sankaran
  • Publication number: 20050234648
    Abstract: A method for the measurement of the stresses and pressure perturbations surrounding a well, and a system for computing the optimum location for initiating a hydraulic stress fracture. The technique includes using sensors attached to the wellbore casing connected to a data analyzer. The analyzer is capable of analyzing the stresses on the well system. Using an inverse problem framework for an open-hole situation, the far field stresses and well departure angle are determined once the pressure perturbations and stresses are measured on the wellbore casing. The number of wellbore measurements needed for the inverse problem solution also is determined. The technique is also capable of determining the optimal location for inducing a hydraulic fracture, the effect of noisy measurements on the accuracy of the results, and assessing the quality of a bond between a casing and a sealant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Publication date: October 20, 2005
    Applicant: University of Houston
    Inventors: Michael Economides, Wolfgang Deeg, Peter Valko, Michael Nikolaou, Sathish Sankaran
  • Patent number: 6834233
    Abstract: A system and method for the measurement of the stresses and pressure perturbations surrounding a well, and a system for computing the optimum location for initiating a hydraulic stress fracture. The technique includes using sensors attached to the wellbore casing connected to a data analyzer. The analyzer is capable of analyzing the stresses on the well system. Using an inverse problem framework for an open-hole situation, the far field stresses and well departure angle are determined once the pressure perturbations and stresses are measured on the wellbore casing. The number of wellbore measurements needed for the inverse problem solution also is determined. The technique is also capable of determining the optimal location for inducing a hydraulic fracture, the effect of noisy measurements on the accuracy of the results, and assessing the quality of a bond between a casing and a sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: University of Houston
    Inventors: Michael J. Economides, Wolfgang F. J. Deeg, Peter Valko, Michael Nikolaou, Sathish Sankaran
  • Publication number: 20030150263
    Abstract: A system and method for the measurement of the stresses and pressure perturbations surrounding a well, and a system for computing the optimum location for initiating a hydraulic stress fracture. The technique includes using sensors attached to the wellbore casing connected to a data analyzer. The analyzer is capable of analyzing the stresses on the well system. Using an inverse problem framework for an open-hole situation, the far field stresses and well departure angle are determined once the pressure perturbations and stresses are measured on the wellbore casing. The number of wellbore measurements needed for the inverse problem solution also is determined. The technique is also capable of determining the optimal location for inducing a hydraulic fracture, the effect of noisy measurements on the accuracy of the results, and assessing the quality of a bond between a casing and a sealant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Michael J. Economides, Wolfgang F.J. Deeg, Peter Valko, Michael Nikolaou, Sathish Sankaran