Patents by Inventor Tsutomu Yamate

Tsutomu Yamate 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: 20080047751
    Abstract: A downhole tool, configured to be suspended in a borehole traversing an earth formation, includes a downhole data acquisition system placed in the tool body and electrically connected to an electric power generator at the formation surface. The downhole data acquisition system includes a sensor for detecting local conditions in the borehole, and a transducer for transducing the voltage of an input signal from high to low or low to high. The transducer having a gallium nitride or silicon carbide based discrete semiconductor device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yamate, Hiroshi Inoue, Jiro Takeda, Yukio Sudo, Emmanuel Desroques, Satoru Umemoto
  • Patent number: 7336356
    Abstract: A downhole fluid analysis system comprises an input light signal that is directed through a fluid sample housed in a sample cell. The input light signal may originate from a plurality of light sources. A light signal output from the sample cell is then routed to two or more spectrometers for measurement of the represented wavelengths in the output light signal. The output of the spectrometers is then compared to known values for hydrocarbons typically encountered downhole. This provides insight into the composition of the sample fluid. Additionally, the input light can be routed directly to the two or more spectrometers to be used in calibration of the system in the high temperature and noise environment downhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Kentaro Indo, Go Fujisawa, Toru Terabayashi, Tsutomu Yamate
  • Publication number: 20070171413
    Abstract: A fluid analysis system for use downhole comprises an input light signal that is directed through a fluid sample housed in a sample cell. The input light signal may originate from a plurality of light sources. An output light signal from the sample cell is then routed to one or more spectrometers for measurement of the represented wavelengths in the output light signal. The output of the spectrometers is then compared to known values for hydrocarbons typically encountered downhole. This provides insight into the composition of the sample fluid. Additionally, the light from the light sources can be routed directly to the one or more spectrometers to be used in calibration of the system in the high temperature and noise environment downhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Akira Kamiya, Masaki Miyashita, Kentaro Indo, Reinhart Ciglenec, Tsutomu Yamate
  • Publication number: 20070171414
    Abstract: Spectral analysis system for downhole applications is provided utilizing an inorganic replica-type grating that is configured to operate as a diffractive element that provides broad spectral coverage in high temperature downhole environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Kentaro Indo, Toru Terabayashi, Tsutomu Yamate
  • Publication number: 20070171412
    Abstract: A downhole fluid analysis system comprises an input light signal that is directed through a fluid sample housed in a sample cell. The input light signal may originate from a plurality of light sources. A light signal output from the sample cell is then routed to two or more spectrometers for measurement of the represented wavelengths in the output light signal. The output of the spectrometers is then compared to known values for hydrocarbons typically encountered downhole. This provides insight into the composition of the sample fluid. Additionally, the input light can be routed directly to the two or more spectrometers to be used in calibration of the system in the high temperature and noise environment downhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Kentaro Indo, Go Fujisawa, Toru Terabayashi, Tsutomu Yamate
  • Publication number: 20070165487
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides, among other things, apparatuses and methods for sensing subsurface data. One embodiment comprises borehole conveyance system tool, the borehole conveyance system tool comprising a conveyance, a sensor array disposed on the conveyance, and an acquisition electronics section disposed on the conveyance distal of the sensor array. One embodiment includes at least one downhole tension sensor to help indicate when a tool is stuck and what part of the tool is stuck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: LES NUTT, TSUTOMU YAMATE, MASAHIRO KAMATA
  • Publication number: 20070143027
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for sensing subsurface data. One embodiment of the invention comprises a shuttle attached to a conveyance where the conveyance and shuttle are adapted to be spooled downhole into a borehole for sensing seismic data. The shuttle contains a sensor package that is preferably acoustically isolated in the shuttle. The sensor package includes a sensor array and a magnet clamp. A sensor section can contain several shuttles, each shuttle containing at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the sensor can be a fiber optic sensor. The magnet clamp is operable to controllably clamp and acoustically couple together the sensor package, the shuttle, and the adjacent structure which is typically the borehole casing. The magnet clamp is likewise operable to unclamp and uncouple the shuttle from the adjacent structure so as to be retracted uphole for subsequent use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Publication date: June 21, 2007
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: LES NUTT, TSUTOMU YAMATE, MASAHIRO KAMATA
  • Publication number: 20070109537
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing real-time analysis of a subterranean formation fluid includes a light source configured to transmit at least a sample signal through a sample of the subterranean formation fluid and a reference signal, at least one photodetector configured to continuously detect the sample and reference signals, and an electronics assembly configured to compensate for drift in the detected sample signal in real-time based on the value of the detected reference signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Publication date: May 17, 2007
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Takeaki Nakayama, Tsutomu Yamate, Toru Terabayashi, Akira Otsuka, Kentaro Indo
  • Patent number: 7215416
    Abstract: Methods for calibrating and making measurements using fiber optic sensors are disclosed using backscattered wavelengths and independent sensors. The disclosure sets outs methods applicable with fiber optic sensors either in a deployed in a loop and in a linear configuration and useful for measurements including temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yamate, Robert J. Schroeder, Rogerio T. Ramos, Oliver C. Mullins
  • Publication number: 20070062696
    Abstract: Subterranean oilfield sensor systems and methods are provided. The subterranean oilfield sensor systems and methods facilitate downhole monitoring and high data transmission rates with power provided to at least one downhole device by a light source at the surface. In one embodiment, a system includes uphole light source, a downhole sensor, a photonic power converter at the downhole sensor, an optical fiber extending between the uphole light source and the photonic power converter, and downhole sensor electronics powered by the photonic power converter. The photonic power converter is contained in a high temperature resistant package. For example, the high temperature resistant package and photonic power converter may operate at temperatures of greater than approximately 100° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: COLIN WILSON, SOON CHEE, LES NUTT, TSUTOMU YAMATE, MASAHIRO KAMATA
  • Publication number: 20070062274
    Abstract: The present invention provides packaging for MEMS devices and other sensors for downhole application. The MEMS devices and/or other sensors may aid in characterizing formation fluids in situ. The packaging facilitates high temperature, high pressure use, which is often encountered in downhole environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: Akihito Chikenji, Veronique Nouaze, Tsutomu Yamate, Toru Terabayashi, Tsutomu Sugimoto
  • Patent number: 7187620
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for sensing subsurface data. One embodiment of the invention comprises a shuttle attached to a conveyance where the conveyance and shuttle are adapted to be spooled downhole into a borehole for sensing seismic data. The shuttle contains a sensor package that is preferably acoustically isolated in the shuttle. The sensor package includes a sensor array and a magnet clamp. A sensor section can contain several shuttles, each shuttle containing at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the sensor can be a fiber optic sensor. The magnet clamp is operable to controllably clamp and acoustically couple together the sensor package, the shuttle, and the adjacent structure which is typically the borehole casing. The magnet clamp is likewise operable to unclamp and uncouple the shuttle from the adjacent structure so as to be retracted uphole for subsequent use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Les Nutt, Tsutomu Yamate, Masahiro Kamata
  • Publication number: 20070035736
    Abstract: The present invention contemplates implementation of transitory downhole video imaging and/or spectral imaging for the characterization of formation fluid samples in situ, as well as during flow through production tubing, including subsea flow lines, for permanent and/or long term installations. The present invention contemplates various methods and apparatus that facilitate one-time or ongoing downhole fluid characterization by video analysis in real time. The methods and systems may be particularly well suited to permanent and periodic intervention-based operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Publication date: February 15, 2007
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Ahmed Hammami, Toru Terabayashi, Tsutomu Yamate, Terry Sopkow, John Ratulowski, John Kerr, Francois Auzerais, Robert Schroeder, Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Andrew L. Kurkjian, Laurent Prouvost
  • Publication number: 20060243047
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for downhole analysis of formation fluids by isolating the fluids from the formation and/or borehole in a pressure and volume control unit that is integrated with a flowline of a fluid analysis module and determining fluid characteristics of the isolated fluids. Parameters of interest may be derived for formation fluids in a static state and undesirable formation fluids may be drained and replaced with formation fluids that are suitable for downhole characterization or surface sample extraction. Isolated formation fluids may be circulated in a loop of the flowline for phase behavior characterization. Real-time analysis of the fluids may be performed at or near downhole conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Publication date: November 2, 2006
    Inventors: Toru Terabayashi, Akihito Chikenji, Tsutomu Yamate, Oliver Mullins, Andrew Kurkjian, Hani Elshahawi
  • Publication number: 20060239330
    Abstract: Methods for calibrating and making measurements using fiber optic sensors are disclosed using backscattered wavelengths and independent sensors. The disclosure sets outs methods applicable with fiber optic sensors either in a deployed in a loop and in a linear configuration and useful for measurements including temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Publication date: October 26, 2006
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yamate, Robert Schroeder, Rogerio Ramos, Oliver Mullins
  • Patent number: 7126680
    Abstract: Methods for calibrating and making measurements using fiber optic sensors are disclosed using backscattered wavelengths and independent sensors. The disclosure sets outs methods applicable with fiber optic sensors either in a deployed in a loop and in a linear configuration and useful for measurements including temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yamate, Robert J. Schroeder, Rogerio T. Ramos, Oliver C. Mullins
  • Publication number: 20060209291
    Abstract: Methods for calibrating and making measurements using fiber optic sensors are disclosed using backscattered wavelengths and independent sensors. The disclosure sets outs methods applicable with fiber optic sensors either in a deployed in a loop and in a linear configuration and useful for measurements including temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Publication date: September 21, 2006
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yamate, Robert Schroeder, Rogerio Ramos, Oliver Mullins
  • Publication number: 20060152383
    Abstract: Hybrid electrical-optical telemetry systems and methods are disclosed. The methods and systems facilitate faster data transmission rates between the surface and downhole tools and sensors. The methods and systems may also include a downhole electrical bus for inter-tool and intra-tool communication to facilitate limited changes to existing downhole equipment. Some embodiments of the hybrid electrical-optical telemetry system include a light source at the surface and a downhole modulator. Some embodiments also include redundant, selectable optical systems. The methods and systems may operate via a single optical input/output cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2004
    Publication date: July 13, 2006
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yamate, Stephane Vannuffelen, Bruno Gayral, Soon Chee, Colin Wilson
  • Publication number: 20060133711
    Abstract: Single fiber optical telemetry systems and methods are disclosed. The methods and systems facilitate input and output via a single fiber optic interface. The optical telemetry systems and methods also facilitate faster data transmission rates between surface and downhole equipment in oilfield applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Inventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Tsutomu Yamate, Bruno Gayral, Soon Chee, Colin Wilson
  • Patent number: 6946645
    Abstract: High-resolution measurement of a parameter is provided at multiple different locations simultaneously along an optic fiber. Light within a predefined range of wavelengths is transmitted into an optic fiber that contains multiple birefringent fiber optic pressure transducers, each including a Fiber Bragg Grating. Each grating defines a spatially modulated index of refraction and a wavelength that is unique within the system. A sweeping comb filter is used to apply optical comb filtering to light reflected from the transducers so as to pass filtered light having multiple spectral portions, each spectral portion associated with one transducer. The free spectral range of the sweeping comb filter is set to be approximately equal to the spectral range of a single spectral portion. Wavelength division multiplexing is applied to the filtered light so as to separate the spectral portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Robert J. Schroeder, Rogerio T. Ramos, Tsutomu Yamate