Downhole Coupling Or Connector Patents (Class 166/242.6)
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Patent number: 7284613Abstract: A method for assembling a stackable perforating gun system inside a well bore is provided that includes attaching a first gun section of the stackable perforating gun system to a tracking assembly, and transporting the first gun section within the well bore using the tracking assembly. The method also includes disengaging the first gun section from the tracking assembly; retrieving the tracking assembly to the surface; attaching a second gun section of the stackable perforating gun system to the tracking assembly; transporting the second gun section within the well bore using the tracking assembly; and coupling the second gun section with the first gun section using the tracking assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2006Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Matthew Billingham, Robert Algie
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Patent number: 7255183Abstract: The gap sub assembly comprises a pair of electrically conductive subs. Each sub has a threaded pin and box. A pin and box are threaded together to form a connection. An electrically insulating, woven fabric overlies and conforms with the threads of the connection pin. An electrically insulating, annular washer separates the seal faces of the connection. The assembly functions to provide an electrical discontinuity when incorporated into a conductive drill string.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2005Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: Phoenix Technology Services, LPInventor: David Cramer
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Patent number: 7252160Abstract: A compact, robust, wear resistant, and high performance electrically insulating gap sub for use with borehole EM Telemetry is disclosed. In one embodiment, the gap sub may include an externally threaded mandrel separated from an internally threaded housing by a dielectric material. Additionally, some embodiments may include an external gap ring for separating the upper and lower electrical halves of the sub which offers structural support, acts as the primary external seal, and provides an abrasion resistant non-conductive length on the exterior. Some embodiments may include torsion pins to prevent the possible unscrewing of the dielectric filled threaded sections should the dielectric material become damaged or weakened.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Tony Dopf, Derek William Logan, Paul Leonard Camwell, Michael Nero, Clemens L. Horst, Robert E. Smallwood
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Patent number: 7249633Abstract: A bottom hole assembly for use with fracturing or fracing a wellbore using coiled tubing is described having a first packing element and a second packing element on a mandrel. The bottom hole assembly may be run into the wellbore such that the packing elements straddle the zone to be fraced. Also described is a timing mechanism to prevent the closing of dump ports before the bottom hole assembly may be flushed of the sand. A release tool is described that allows an operator to apply combination of force for a given amount of time to the coiled tubing to dislodge a bottom hole assembly without completely releasing the bottom hole assembly. Also disclosed is a collar locator capable of being utilized in a fracing process. Methods of using the above-described components are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2004Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: BJ Services CompanyInventors: John Edward Ravensbergen, Andre Naumann, Lubos Vacik, Mitch Lambert, Graham Wilde
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Patent number: 7243728Abstract: Devices and methods for releasably securing components of a device having a sliding sleeve arrangement to prevent premature actuation due to vibration. In a currently preferred embodiment, standard elastomeric O-rings are used as shear members. The O-ring shear members reside within spaces formed between two slidable sleeve members. The O-rings are sheared cross-sectionally to allow the sleeve members to move axially with respect to one another. An exemplary coiled tubing shear release joint is described that incorporates a shear disconnect assembly which uses elastomeric O-rings as shear members. Multiple O-ring seals can be used as shear members to increase the shear value of the device. The use of O-rings as shear members helps prevent premature sliding of sleeve components in response to high vibration. Because the O-rings are resilient, they absorb vibration and do not shear during vibration, the connection between the two sleeve components will not be released prematurely.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Carl W. Stoesz, Calvin J. Stowe
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Patent number: 7240735Abstract: A subsea wellhead including a wellhead housing having a bore with a grooved profile. An upper portion of the bore has a greater diameter than a lower portion of the bore, and a central conical portion of the bore joins the upper portion of the bore and the lower portion of the bore. A connector body lands in the wellhead housing. The connector body has a conical section that interfaces with the central conical portion of the bore. A seal is secured between the central conical portion of the bore of the wellhead housing and the conical section of the connector body at the interface of the wellhead housing and the connector body. A locking element is carried on the connector body. The locking element has an outer side that engages the grooved profile of the wellhead housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Alistair D. Crozier
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Patent number: 7228898Abstract: A gravel pack completion with fluid loss control and fiber optic wet connect. In a described embodiment, a system for completing a subterranean well includes multiple assemblies installed in a wellbore. Each assembly has a fiber optic line. The fiber optic lines are operatively connected to each other after the assemblies are installed in the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Tommy Grigsby, Bruce Techentien
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Patent number: 7219727Abstract: A wear resistant casing connection including a wear resistant portion on its exterior surface is taught. A casing connection having a controlled bend angle is also taught.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Tesco CorporationInventors: Maurice William Slack, Robert M. Tessari, Per G. Angman, Tommy M. Warren
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Patent number: 7216719Abstract: An apparatus includes a weld coupling and a thermal insulator. The weld coupling is adapted to be welded to an outer housing of a first cable segment to couple the first cable segment to a second cable segment. The thermal insulator is adapted to prevent thermal damage to a communication line of the first cable segment when the weld coupling is welded to the outer housing.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Hebah Ahmed, Harjit S. Kohli, Ben A. Donnell
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Patent number: 7213655Abstract: A hands-free connection system is provided for coupling downhole tools for use in well operations. The connection system includes two downhole tools connectable together in threaded engagement. The connection system further includes a compressible locking sleeve positioned between the coupled downhole tools for maintaining the tools in threaded engagement and in a predetermined alignment for deployment downhole.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Robert A. Parrott
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Patent number: 7198101Abstract: A downhole apparatus permitting separation of one part of downhole equipment from another part thereof includes a first part connected to a second part by a connecting member which limits axial and rotational movement of the first and second parts and has first and second ends connected respectively to the first and second parts. The connecting member includes a cross bar extending between the first and second ends having an aperture therein that results in a region of weakness, a portion of the cross bar spaced from the aperture minimizing stress at the region of weakness when torque is transmitted in use between the first and second parts via the connecting member.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Smith International, Inc.Inventors: Bruce McGarian, Ian Alexander Gillies
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Patent number: 7195073Abstract: A tie back assembly that uses expansion for connection and sealing is disclosed. The male component does not have any wall portions removed to hold a resilient seal. A seal is an option as anchoring and sealing can be accomplished by the expansion alone. The pressure rating of the connection is not reduced by material removed to accommodate a seal. A variety of expansion techniques can be used and the expansion can be done in a single trip with the insertion of the tie back assembly into the receptacle or in a separate trip.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: James M. Fraser, III
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Patent number: 7193526Abstract: A double shouldered downhole tool connection comprises box and pin connections having mating threads intermediate mating primary and secondary shoulders. The connection further comprises a secondary shoulder component retained in the box connection intermediate a floating component and the primary shoulders. The secondary shoulder component and the pin connection cooperate to transfer a portion of makeup load to the box connection. The downhole tool may be selected from the group consisting of drill pipe, drill collars, production pipe, and reamers. The floating component may be selected from the group consisting of electronics modules, generators, gyroscopes, power sources, and stators. The secondary shoulder component may comprises an interface to the box connection selected from the group consisting of radial grooves, axial grooves, tapered grooves, radial protrusions, axial protrusions, tapered protrusions, shoulders, and threads.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.Inventors: David R. Hall, Andrei Muradov, David S. Pixton, Scott Steven Dahlgren, Michael A. Briscoe
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Patent number: 7185700Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a tool for use in a wellbore. In one aspect, a method of performing an operation in a wellbore is provided. The method includes running a selectively separable plug member accommodating a tool into the wellbore on a continuous rod. Next, a first portion of the plug member is separated from a second portion and then the continuous rod is used to position the second portion with the tool below the first portion to perform the operation. In another aspect, a method of logging a wellbore is provided. In yet another aspect, a plug assembly for use in a wellbore is provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Ronald B. Collins, Wayne Richard Jolly
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Patent number: 7185721Abstract: A male portion for percussive rock drilling includes sections of reduced cross-sectional area. At least one thread for percussive rock drilling is provided at an end of the male portion. The end of the male portion comprises an abutment surface for the transfer of impact waves. The length of the portion is defined as the length of an imaginary cylinder from a plane of the impact surface to a point where the plane ceases to contact a crest of the thread, wherein the length divided by the external diameter of the cylinder lies within a range of 1–2.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2003Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: Sandvik Intellectual Property ABInventors: Bo Carlström, Anders Brungs, Christer Lundberg, Per-Olof Liljebrand
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Patent number: 7182131Abstract: A dual diameter centralizing sub for maintaining stand-off and/or centralizing a tubular member inside a larger diameter tubular member, for instance, in a wellbore. The centralizer is provided with bow springs that compress into grooves between radially outwardly-extending vanes that are spaced around the outer diameter of the sub when compressive force is applied to the bow springs. The vanes extend radially outwardly far enough that the effective diameter of the sub in the area of the vanes is greater than the diameter of the sub and/or the tubing to which it is mounted to provide stand-off even under conditions in which the bow springs are fully compressed while still maintaining fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: CaseTech International, Inc.Inventor: Maximillian S. Gremillion
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Patent number: 7182158Abstract: In a drilling device with a drive unit for rotation and advance the rod assembly has a plurality of pipe sections interconnected by means of plug-type connections torque proof in both directions. A tension rod protrudes through the interior of the rod assembling. The pipe sections are braced among each other with aid of the tension rod. The tension rod can be made of pipe sections or of a tension rope and allows the possibility, that the rope assembly can be moved in its integrity against the drilling direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Tracto-Technik GmbHInventor: Gerhard Völkel
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Patent number: 7178601Abstract: Methods of and apparatus for drilling, casing and/or completing a borehole wherein one or more portions of the borehole are drilled into a formation at a single diameter along the entire length or depth of the or each portion of the borehole. An expandable tubular member is then located within the or each portion of the borehole and radially expanded in the or each portion to line and/or case it or them. Optionally, a corrosion resistant member and/or a service string can be located in the borehole. An advantage of certain embodiments is that a single diameter borehole is formed along the entire length or depth thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2002Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: e2Tech LimitedInventor: Philip Michael Burge
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Patent number: 7168486Abstract: A technique for connecting expandable tubulars. The technique comprises an expandable connector system that facilitates the connection of tubular components, such as tubulars used in wellbore environments.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Matthew R. Hackworth, Craig D. Johnson, Patrick W. Bixenman
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Patent number: 7163054Abstract: The invention is directed to breechblock connections to and between oil field equipment and oil field lines for use with oil field equipment associated with oil and gas exploration, drilling, and production. The oil field lines and oil field equipment of the invention include a breechblock connection for quick and easy removal and installation of the oil field lines to oil field equipment and to other oil field lines, and connections between different pieces of oil field equipment. Methods of connecting lines to oil field equipment and connecting one piece of oil field equipment to a second piece of oil field equipment are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Control Flow Inc.Inventor: James Murph Adams
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Patent number: 7159667Abstract: First and second members, representatively first and second portions of a collet assembly, are removably coupled to one another by aligning slots in the first member with slots in the second members to form opposing slot pairs into which coupling members are inserted in first directions. The inserted coupling members are removed from the slot pairs, in second directions opposite from the first directions, in response to the generation of a fluid pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Robert Lance Cook, David Paul Brisco, R. Bruce Stewart, Lev Ring, Richard Carl Haut, Robert Donald Mack, Alan B. Duell
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Patent number: 7156171Abstract: A centralizer for maintaining stand-off and/or centralizing a tubular member inside a larger diameter tubular member, for instance, in a wellbore. The centralizer is provided with bow springs that compress to a minimal diameter around the outer diameter of the sub to which the centralizer is concentrically mounted when compressive force is applied to the bow springs to facilitate insertion of the centralizer into restricted openings and/or flow control or wellhead equipment. The minimal diameter of the centralizer is provided by mounting the bow springs to a reduced diameter portion of the collar that is mounted to the sub, and even greater reduction in diameter is achieved by mounting the bow springs in notches formed in the reduced diameter portion of the collar.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: CaseTech International, Inc.Inventor: Maximillian S. Gremillion
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Patent number: 7152674Abstract: A disconnect device for use as part of a tubing string downhole in an oil or gas well and which comprises a tubular body, at least one slip held within the tubular body, and a sleeve housed within the tubular body to hold the at least one slip in coupling engagement with at least one of a coupling component of an upper sub and a coupling component of a lower sub, in use, the sleeve being selectively moveable relative to the at least one slip to release the slip and thereby release the coupling, wherein the slip cooperatively engages with at least one of the coupling component of the upper sub and the coupling component of the lower sub by means of at least one localized protrusion on the slip or on the coupling component extending into a corresponding shaped local depression or hole in the other of the at least one slip and the coupling component whereby tensile load and torque may be transmitted by the coupling, that part of the device which is to be released and left downhole by releasing the coupling engagType: GrantFiled: November 27, 2001Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Rodney Gordon Bowles
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Patent number: 7140446Abstract: A tubing connection arrangement that includes two expandable tubing sections is disclosed. In one embodiment, each of the tubing sections includes a filter screen sandwiched between inner expandable tubing and outer expandable tubing. On expansion of the tubing sections, the outer tubing provides resistance to radial expansion of the inner tubing in order to ensure that the integrity between the tubing sections is maintained. The filter screen of one of the tubing sections overlaps the filter screen of the other tubing section, and the outer expandable tubing of at least one of the tubing sections extends over the overlapping filter screens.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2005Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/ Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Paul David Metcalfe
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Patent number: 7140432Abstract: A dual diameter centralizing sub for maintaining stand-off and/or centralizing a tubular member inside a larger diameter tubular member, for instance, in a wellbore. The centralizer is provided with bow springs that compress into grooves between radially outwardly-extending vanes that are spaced around the outer diameter of the sub when compressive force is applied to the bow springs. The vanes extend radially outwardly far enough that the effective diameter of the sub in the area of the vanes is greater than the diameter of the sub and/or the tubing to which it is mounted to provide stand-off even under conditions in which the bow springs are fully compressed while still maintaining fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2005Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: CaseTech International, Inc.Inventor: Maximillian S. Gremillion
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Patent number: 7128147Abstract: A liner hanger having a mechanical coupling between a liner hanger body and one or more cones is disclosed. The cones are coupled to the liner hanger body to resist axial and relative rotational movement without welding the cones to the hanger body, and without the need to use integral cones. In general, the mechanical coupling includes a hanger body or casing mandrel, a cone assembly journaled on the casing mandrel, at least one slot or groove in an outer wall of the casing mandrel, and at least one partially or fully annular slot on the inside surface of the cone assembly oriented to correspond with the groove(s) in the outer wall of the hanger body. At least one wire, or one or more bearings, is situated in the corresponding slot and the groove. The wire engages the flanks of the slot and groove sufficiently to resist axial or rotational movement of the cones relative to the hanger body.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: Watherford/Lamb Inc.Inventors: Jozeph R. Marcin, James F. Wilkin
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Patent number: 7124825Abstract: A crimpable wear band (105) tool has been invented for installation on casing (6), used in well bore drilling. A wear band (105) is provided having a cylindrical body which when coaxially placed over a pipe and substantially radially inwardly displaced at a plurality of points (i.e. crimped) about the circumference of a section of cylindrical body, attaches to the pipe to create a connection having structurally significant axial and torque load transfer capacity. When crimped according to the methods of the present invention, the load transfer capacity of the connection between the wear band (105) tool and the pipe (6) can be arranged to substantially prevent significant relative movement of the wear band tool on the pipe under loads that may be encountered when using one or more of the pipes as components of a tubular string used for drilling or running the casing in to complete a well bore.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Assignee: Tesco CorporationInventor: Maurice William Slack
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Patent number: 7111688Abstract: A clamp for clamping two concentric tubes, typically two concentric tubes in an oil or gas well. The clamp has two axially movable tapered components which can be pulled over one another in an axial direction to provide a contraction of internal diameter which grips the smaller diameter tube. In one embodiment, a spacer is fitted to allow the tapered components to be held apart until the tubes have been correctly positioned. The spacer is then removed, and the tapered components are drawn together to effect the clamping. A hydraulic ram can be provided to separate the tapered components should readjustment be required. In another embodiment, the larger diameter tube is made with a relatively thin wall, so that it can be distorted inwards to grip the smaller tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2003Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: Plexus Ocean Systems, Ltd.Inventor: Bernard H. vanBilderbeek
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Patent number: 7108063Abstract: Improved sucker rod joints for down hole petroleum pumping applications are provided within the form factor of standard API sucker rods, such that existing inventory in suitable condition is fully usable in more demanding applications. The pin ends are selected or processed such as to provide preselected axial distance between a flat pin end and at least one reference surface, such as a threaded region or reference shoulder or both. The coupler is dimensioned such that the pin ends are in abutment either with each other or with opposite sides of an intervening torque washer in the central region, when the connection is made to a selected level of thread engagement. Furthermore, the engagement is such as to put the pin ends in compression and the coextensive length of coupler in tension. This increases frictional restraints and locks the elements together to resist fatigue failure upon cycling and to insure together with an anaerobic adhesive sealant, against back threading.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2001Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Inventor: Kenneth J. Carstensen
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Patent number: 7100696Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a disconnect for use in a wellbore to separate a tubular string from a stuck wellbore component. In one aspect, the invention includes a disconnect with a first portion and a second portion and a lock nut preventing the separation of the two portions. When a predetermined fluid force is applied to a piston in the disconnect, a tensile sleeve fails and the first and second portions of the disconnect separate, thereby leaving a portion of the disconnect in the wellbore with the stuck component. In one embodiment, the tensile sleeve's failure permits an annular piston to dislodge a wedge sleeve from the lock nut, thereby permitting separation of the first and second portion of the disconnect.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Greg Marshall
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Patent number: 7093652Abstract: A plunger for use in tubulars in wells which produce fluids and/or gases under variable pressure. The plunger has at least two separate jackets comprised of segments mounted about one body or bodies joined by a connector, which collectively have increased sealing, holding, and lifting capabilities. A inner turbulent or labyrinth-type seal is accomplished by circumferential grooves on the core and/or fingers which project inwardly from the underside of the segments. The plunger body may also have an internal passage to facilitate more rapid descent, and a simplified stopper housed inside a chamber which is actuated when the plunger reaches a well stop or well bottom and which is held in a closed position by the build up of pressure below the plunger. When the pressure inside the tubulars above the plunger is reduced, the plunger and fluids move upwardly to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Inventors: William R. Gray, James H. Holt
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Patent number: 7093654Abstract: The present invention includes a downhole component adapted for transmitting downhole data. The downhole component includes a threaded end on a downhole component. The threaded end furthermore includes an interior region, and exterior region, and a mating surface wherein a cavity is formed. A data transmission element is disposed in the cavity and displaces a volume of the cavity. At least one passageway is formed in the threaded region between interior and exterior regions. The passageway is in fluid communication with both the interior and exterior regions and thereby relieves pressure build up of thread lubricant upon tool joint make up.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2004Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.Inventors: David R. Hall, David S. Pixton, Scott Dahlgren, Jay T. Reynolds, James W. Breihan, Michael A. Briscoe
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Patent number: 7090008Abstract: An apparatus that is usable with a subterranean well includes a latch and an engagement mechanism. The latch is adapted to form a releasable connection between a first conduit section and a second conduit section in response to engagement of an actuator of the latch and maintain a first distance between an end of the first conduit section and an end of the second conduit section. The engagement mechanism is adapted to continuously engage the actuator to cause the latch to connect the first conduit section and the second conduit section despite the movement of the engagement mechanism between a first position and a second position. The second distance between the first position and the second position is greater than the first distance.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Sensor Highway LimitedInventor: Barry A. Read
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Patent number: 7082997Abstract: A crimpable centralizer has been invented for installation on pipe, such as would be useful in well bore drilling and casing operations. The present invention provides a centralizer having a cylindrical body which when coaxially placed over a pipe and substantially radially inwardly displaced at a plurality of points (i.e. crimped) about the circumference of a section of the cylindrical body, attaches to the pipe to create a connection having structurally significant axial and torque load transfer capacity. When crimped according to the methods of the present invention, the load transfer capacity of the connection between the centralizer and the pipe can be arranged to substantially prevent significant relative movement of the centralizer on the pipe under loads that may be encountered when using one or more of the pipes as components of a tubular string used for drilling or completing well bores.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Tesco CorporationInventor: Maurice William Slack
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Patent number: 7077210Abstract: A method of expanding tubing downhole comprises the steps of: providing tubing (14;44) of a first diameter; running the tubing into a bore (10;40); expanding a first section of the tubing to a second diameter, and expanding a second section of the tubing to a third diameter.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Alexander Craig MacKay, Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson
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Patent number: 7077197Abstract: A method and apparatus for a wellbore expandable connection is disclosed. The connection may include a pin having an outward tapered threaded section and a box having an inward tapered threaded section. The threaded sections form a connection of a predetermined integrity upon make-up. An embodiment of the connection includes at least one interface area of the connection that lacks intimate contact between the pin and the box upon initial make-up. Either the box or the pin, or both, have a friction surface at the interface area. Radial expansion of the connection places the pin in contact with the box at the interface area such that the friction surface between them locks the connection. In one embodiment, the connection includes a receptacle profiled in a portion of the box that provides space within the connection for material that extrudes from the pin during expansion of the connection.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Simon J. Harrall
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Patent number: 7069999Abstract: A method for routing a transmission line through a tool joint having a primary and secondary shoulder, a central bore, and a longitudinal axis, includes drilling a straight channel, at a positive, nominal angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, through the tool joint from the secondary shoulder to a point proximate the inside wall of the centtral bore. The method further includes milling back, from within the central bore, a second channel to merge with the straight channel, thereby forming a continuous channel from the secondary shoulder to the central bore. In selected embodiments, drilling is accomplished by gun-drilling the straight channel. In other embodiments, the method includes tilting the tool joint before drilling to produce the positive, nominal angle. In selected embodiments, the positive, nominal angle is less than or equal to 15 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2004Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Michael Briscoe, Jay Reynolds
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Patent number: 7064676Abstract: A system for transmitting data through a string of downhole components. In one aspect, the system includes first and second magnetically conductive, electrically insulating elements at both ends of the component. Each element includes a first U-shaped trough with a bottom, first and second sides and an opening between the two sides. Electrically conducting coils are located in each trough. An electrical conductor connects the coils in each component. In operation, a varying current applied to a first coil in one component generates a varying magnetic field in the first magnetically conductive, electrically insulating element, which varying magnetic field is conducted to and thereby produces a varying magnetic field in the second magnetically conductive, electrically insulating element of a connected component, which magnetic field thereby generates a varying electrical current in the second coil in the connected component.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2003Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S Pixton, Scott Dahlgren, Joe Fox
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Patent number: 7063143Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for controlling and/or powering downhole components without the need for control and/or power lines extending from the components to the surface of the well and without the need for power or control lines to be inserted into the wellbore along with the components. In one aspect of the invention, a borehole is lined with a casing, the casing having at least one aperture disposed. Adjacent the aperture, on the outer surface of the casing, is a docking station, which is permanently attached to the casing and includes a socket. After the casing is installed in the borehole, a downhole component can be lowered into the wellbore. The downhole component is equipped with a connector extending from an outer surface thereof. The connector assembly is disposable through the aperture in the casing and, the connector assembly can be connected to the socket of docking station.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2001Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb. Inc.Inventors: Frederick T. Tilton, Charles G. Brunet, David M. Haugen, Michel Bouchard, Clayton Plucheck, Doug Durst, David J. Brunnert, Clark Robison
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Patent number: 7051806Abstract: An internal slip connector useful for attaching tools or other devices to the inside wall of a conduit, the connector having a mandrel with a head end, a threaded end, a reduced-diameter shaft section disposed between the head end and the threaded end, two abutting slip segments loosely disposed around the mandrel between the head end and an upper extending portion of the threaded end, and a nut threaded onto the mandrel below the slip segments. When tightened following insertion of the slip segments into the conduit, the nut causes the slip segments to slide radially outward along an oblique interface between them. Gripping surfaces disposed on the outside of the slip segments are thereby pressed into engagement with the inside wall of the conduit. The internal slip connector can be used with coiled tubing of various wall thicknesses and is easily released after loosening the threaded nut.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Inventor: Rex A. Dodd
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Patent number: 7048052Abstract: At least a first expandable tubular and a second expandable tubular are connected to each other by a connector system. The connector system is expandable and utilizes a plurality of extensions that may be used to create an interlocking engagement. The system design enables both the tubulars and the connector system to be expanded to an increased diameter.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Matthew R. Hackworth, Craig D. Johnson, Patrick W. Bixenman
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Patent number: 7036580Abstract: The present invention relates to downhole apparatus for limiting rotation of a rotor (4) relative to a stator (8) associated with said rotor (4). Apparatus according to the invention is provided with a locking member (12) movable from a first axial position to a second axial position by the application of a static fluid pressure to a differential area of said locking member (12). The apparatus is characterised by means for selectively applying static fluid pressure to said differential area of said locking member (12).Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2002Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Smith International Inc.Inventors: Bruce McGarian, Ian A. Gillies
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Patent number: 7028788Abstract: Wear sleeve for a drill pipe coupling (10), where a sleeve (18) is arranged in a drill pipe coupling on one of the two adjoining, coupled together drill pipes (12, 14) in a drill string, where the sleeve has an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the drill pipe coupling (10) and which comprises an inner continuous bore. The inner bore comprises a threaded section (22a) arranged for joining together with a corresponding outer threaded section (22) at the one end of the drill pipe coupling (10), whereupon the sleeve (18) is arranged to be securely fastened in the drill pipe coupling to form a wear sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2002Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Tubular Protection Systems ASInventors: Stein Strand, Per Gunnar Nilsen, Atle Stlan Vaalana
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Patent number: 7028780Abstract: An apparatus for forming an expanded connection in a wellbore, whereby the apparatus includes a first tubular radially expandable outward into contact with an inner wall of a second tubular upon the application of an outwardly directed force supplied to an inner surface of the first tubular. The apparatus further includes a plurality of outwardly extending formations formed on an outer surface of the first tubular, the formations constructed and arranged to provide a frictional relationship between the first tubular and the second tubular while leaving a fluid path when the first tubular is expanded to engage the inner wall of the second tubular.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Patrick G. Maguire
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Patent number: 7025144Abstract: Wellbore apparatus has been invented which, in at least certain aspects, includes a wellbore apparatus having a tubular member with a top end, a bottom end, a hollow portion, and a window therethrough, a sleeve positioned within the hollow portion of the tubular member, the sleeve having a top end and a bottom end, a diverter apparatus within or outside the tubular member and, optionally, below the bottom end of the sleeve, the sleeve movable so that the diverter, and the diverter directs the sleeve to the window and through the window into a bore extending beyond the window, and the window having an edge therearound to which the top end of the sleeve is weldable to sealingly secure the sleeve at the windowType: GrantFiled: May 25, 2004Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David M. Haugen, Marc Kuck
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Patent number: 7011162Abstract: An apparatus for use in a wellbore, the apparatus comprises a top body, a bottom body, and a sleeve mechanically connected to the top and bottom bodies. The sleeve movable between a first position to a second position, whereby in the first position, the top and bottom bodies rotate as one unit and in the second position, the top body rotates independent of the bottom body in a first direction and with the bottom body in a second direction. A method for completing a wellbore, wherein the method comprises running an assembly and a liner disposed on a drill string into the wellbore. The assembly includes an expander tool, a hydraulically actuated swivel, and a running tool mechanically connected to the liner. The method includes rotating the assembly and the liner as one rotationally locked unit. The method further includes activating the expander tool, expanding the liner into the existing casing, deactivating the expander, and then removing the drill string and running assembly from the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2002Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Patrick G. Maguire
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Patent number: 7004250Abstract: A sealing system for the interspace in the transition region between two well pipes of different diameters, and a mounting tool for producing the sealing connection. The mounting tool is lowered via a drilling string through a larger diameter pipe and, with a sealing system, is placed on a holding docket on the upper end of a lower, smaller diameter, pipe. A rotation exerted on the mounting tool via the drilling string; causes the sealing system to be fixed to the lower pipe. Via the drilling string, the mounting tool is pressed vertically downwards against a sealing ring of the sealing system which, as a result, bears in a sealing manner against the inner wall of the upper pipe of larger diameter. This sealing position is fixed by rotating the mounting tool in one direction and by rotating the mounting tool in the other direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: H. Butting GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Friedrich Henneicke
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Patent number: 7002445Abstract: A robust transmission element for transmitting information between downhole tools, such as sections of drill pipe, in the presence of hostile environmental conditions, such as heat, dirt, rocks, mud, fluids, lubricants, and the like. The transmission element maintains reliable connectivity between transmission elements, thereby providing an uninterrupted flow of information between drill string components. A transmission element is mounted within a recess proximate a mating surface of a downhole drilling component, such as a section of drill pipe. To close gaps present between transmission elements, transmission elements may be biased with a “spring force,” urging them closer together.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Michael A. Briscoe, Scott Steven Dahlgren, Joe Fox, Cameron Sneddon
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Patent number: 6997264Abstract: A connector arrangement used for connecting a first tubular to a second tubular. The first tubular member has at least one circumferential ring profile, and the second tubular member has a corresponding number of matching circumferential ring profiles. When the ring profiles of the two tubulars are mated and interlocked, they form separate and independent fluid seals as well as a mechanical lock able to hold the tubulars together during future expansion of the entire tubular and joint. Further, selecting properties of the tubulars such as yield strength and modulus of elasticity or constraining a diameter of one of the tubulars during expansion or compression forms a tight connection due to elastic recovery of the tubulars.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Neil A. A. Simpson, Clayton Plucheck, Robert J. Coon
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Patent number: 6981547Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a connector arrangement for connecting a first tubular to a second tubular. In particular, the present invention relates to methods and apparatus for connecting the tubulars in such a way that the connection is prevented from becoming unmade in response to expansion of the tubulars. A connector mechanically mates a box end and a pin end of the tubulars together to form the connection. Additionally, mating castellations, surface finishes on the pin end and the box end, torque screws, and a variable pitch groove can provide resistance to relative rotation between the tubulars at the connection.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Patrick G. Maguire, David E. Hirth