Abstract: A bent sub for use in a bottom hole assembly, between the power section of a mud motor and the drill bit, which can have its bend angle altered from the surface while remaining downhole, and a method for adjusting the bend of a bent sub. A biasing mechanism includes a number of linear actuators radially positioned about the tool centerline and oriented for axial motion. The linear actuators are connected to travelling blocks, which engage the upper end of the inner race a pivoting bearing assembly. The lower end of the inner race is connected to the mud motor bearing assembly. The linear actuators and can be actuated in coordination to tilt the inner race, and hence, the mud motor bearing assembly, to various selectable angles in any radial direction for control of tool face. In an embodiment, the actuators are battery-powered motor-driven lead screws.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for generating fluid pulses in a fluid column, such as within a downhole well, are disclosed. A described example fluid pulse generator utilizes a moveable flow conduit through which at least a portion of a downwardly flowing fluid column will pass. The moveable flow conduit can be moved, such as by pivoting, in and out of registry with other components defining the fluid flow path to provide resistance to flow of a selected duration and pattern, and thereby to generate pressure pulses within the fluid column detectable at the surface. In some examples, magnetic actuators will be used to perform the described pivoting of the moveable flow conduit.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for generating fluid pulses in a fluid column, such as within a downhole well, are disclosed. A described example fluid pulse generator utilizes a moveable flow conduit through which at least a portion of a downwardly flowing fluid column will pass. The moveable flow conduit can be moved, such as by pivoting, in and out of registry with other components defining the fluid flow path to provide resistance to flow of a selected duration and pattern, and thereby to generate pressure pulses within the fluid column detectable at the surface. In some examples, magnetic actuators will be used to perform the described pivoting of the moveable flow conduit.

Abstract: A bent sub for use in a bottom hole assembly, between the power section of a mud motor and the drill bit, which can have its bend angle altered from the surface while remaining downhole, and a method for adjusting the bend of a bent sub. A biasing mechanism includes a number of linear actuators radially positioned about the tool centerline and oriented for axial motion. The linear actuators are connected to travelling blocks, which engage the upper end of the inner race a pivoting bearing assembly. The lower end of the inner race is connected to the mud motor bearing assembly. The linear actuators and can be actuated in coordination to tilt the inner race, and hence, the mud motor bearing assembly, to various selectable angles in any radial direction for control of tool face. In an embodiment, the actuators are battery-powered motor-driven lead screws.