Patents by Inventor Thomas G. Szudajski

Thomas G. Szudajski 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).

  • Patent number: 10031148
    Abstract: An automated system for handling core samples in and out of an imaging device retrieves the samples from a staging area. During handling, the identity of each core sample is known to the system so that the imaging results are correlated appropriately. The system positions the core sample so the vertical and slab side orientations of the core sample discernable during handling. Core samples are staged in a location, and the automated system includes a robotic arm, which senses the core sample to discern its vertical and slab slot orientations, and then loads the core sample into the imaging device. When imaging is complete, the automated system removes the core sample from the imaging device; and in designated circumstances, transfers the core sample to a location for further analysis. In one example the further analysis is based on analyzing areas of interest identified in the core sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: GE ENERGY OILFIELD TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Szudajski, John C. Boot
  • Patent number: 9573434
    Abstract: A chassis that supports a scanning system that images core samples from a wellbore. The chassis provides a mounting base for the scanning system for transportation of the scanning system, and also while the scanning system is in use and stationary. A suspension system mounts between the chassis and wheels that facilitate transportation of the chassis. The suspension system isolates the scanning system from shock and vibration encountered by the wheels while transporting the chassis and scanning system. In an example the chassis is a trailer, and which is pulled by a tractor. Legs can telescope downward from the chassis and against the surface on which the chassis is disposed. Airbags are strategically located within the chassis that absorb the vibration and thereby isolate the scanning system from the shock and vibration. Locations of the airbags include paths of force transmission between the wheels and the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: GE ENERGY OILFIELD TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: John C. Boot, Thomas G. Szudajski, Mongquy V. To
  • Publication number: 20160187361
    Abstract: An automated system for handling core samples in and out of an imaging device retrieves the samples from a staging area. During handling, the identity of each core sample is known to the system so that the imaging results are correlated appropriately. The system positions the core sample so the vertical and slab side orientations of the core sample discernable during handling. Core samples are staged in a location, and the automated system includes a robotic arm, which senses the core sample to discern its vertical and slab slot orientations, and then loads the core sample into the imaging device. When imaging is complete, the automated system removes the core sample from the imaging device; and in designated circumstances, transfers the core sample to a location for further analysis. In one example the further analysis is based on analyzing areas of interest identified in the core sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Publication date: June 30, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas G. Szudajski, John C. Boot
  • Publication number: 20160187313
    Abstract: A system for analyzing a cote sample from a wellbore, where the analysis takes place in the field and proximate the wellbore. The system includes a trailer with a unit for scanning the core sample and obtaining information within the sample. The unit is housed in a cabinet having a cabinet interior that is maintained at a set temperature and humidity with conditioned air. The cabinet also has sidewalls that define a pressure barrier between the inside of the cabinet and an isolation space that is between the cabinet and inner surface of the trailer. The unit includes a manipulator system for moving the core sample through a rotating scan source in the scanning unit. A sample enclosure provides a barrier between the ambient zone surrounding the sample and the isolation space in the cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Publication date: June 30, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas G. Szudajski, John C. Boot
  • Publication number: 20160185174
    Abstract: A chassis that supports a scanning system that images core samples from a wellbore. The chassis provides a mounting base for the scanning system for transportation of the scanning system, and also while the scanning system is in use and stationary. A suspension system mounts between the chassis and wheels that facilitate transportation of the chassis. The suspension system isolates the scanning system from shock and vibration encountered by the wheels while transporting the chassis and scanning system. In an example the chassis is a trailer, and which is pulled by a tractor. Legs can telescope downward from the chassis and against the surface on which the chassis is disposed. Airbags are strategically located within the chassis that absorb the vibration and thereby isolate the scanning system from the shock and vibration. Locations of the airbags include paths of force transmission between the wheels and the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Publication date: June 30, 2016
    Inventors: John C. Boot, Thomas G. Szudajski, Mongquy V. To