Bottom Hole Pressure Patents (Class 166/250.07)
  • Patent number: 11835675
    Abstract: The present device and technique relates to measuring geological formation permeability, such as by injection/withdrawal of conductivity-permeability doped fluid and measuring the magnetic permeability and/or conductivity of the surrounding formation. Before, during and/or after injection or withdrawal, pluralities of electromagnetic measurements of the radial distribution of magnetic permeability and/or conductivity of the surrounding formation may be made. The rate of change of the radial distribution of magnetic permeability and/or conductivity of the formation is generally directly proportional to the permeability of the surrounding formation. In implementations, magnetic permeability and electrical conductivity can be measured independently in time domain or frequency domain, such that the magnetic permeability mapping is not disturbed by other confounding electromagnetic parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Val Riachentsev, Robert Adams, Max Deffenbaugh, Howard K. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 11702931
    Abstract: A system includes a processor(s), and a memory coupled to the processor(s) having instructions stored therein. When executed by the processor(s), the instructions cause the processor(s) to perform functions to: apply a treatment for stimulating production to at least a first well in a subterranean formation; determine a flow distribution based on at least one of a first-well measurement or a second-well measurement, the first-well measurement taken at the first well, and the second-well measurement taken at a second well; determine a length of a fracture between the first and second wells, based on the determined flow distribution; determine if the applied treatment at the first well interferes with the second well, based on the determined length of the fracture; and apply a diverting material at the first well if it is determined that the applied treatment interferes with the second well, in order to control well bashing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Ubong Inyang, Srinath Madasu
  • Patent number: 11674372
    Abstract: A method can include flowing fluid from a formation from an inlet of a tool to an annulus; flowing spacer fluid from a conduit to the annulus; flowing the fluid and the spacer fluid in the annulus to a station; and collecting the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hadrien Dumont, Francois Xavier Dubost, Bertrand Claude Theuveny, Adriaan Gisolf, Pierre-Yves Corre
  • Patent number: 11649389
    Abstract: A collection of compressible particles. The compressible particles are intended to be used for attenuating pressure build-up within a confined volume such as a trapped annulus in a wellbore. Each of the compressible particles is fabricated to collapse in response to fluid pressure within the confined volume, and comprises carbon. Particularly, each of the particles comprises a plurality of peripheral openings, permitting an ingress of wellbore fluids in response to an increase in pressure within a trapped annulus. The collection of compressible particles together has a reversible volumetric expansion/contraction of ?10% and up to 25% at pressures up to 10,000 psi. A method of attenuating annular pressure buildup within a wellbore using the collection of compressible particles is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Peter A. Gordon, Thomas A. Petersen, Spencer A. White, Elizabeth L. Templeton-Barrett, Christian Mayer
  • Patent number: 11499423
    Abstract: Systems and methods include a method providing automated production optimization for smart well completions using real-time nodal analysis including comingled production calibration. Real-time well rates and flowing bottom-hole pressure data are collected at various choke settings for multiple flow conditions for each lateral of a multilateral well during regular field optimization procedures. Surface and downhole pressures and production metrics for each of the laterals are recorded for one lateral at a time during production of the well. Flowing parameters of individual laterals are estimated using the multilateral well production model. An optimum pressure drop across each downhole valve is determined using the multilateral well production model. Each lateral of the multilateral well is calibrated during the commingled production at various choke valves settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Amer Alanazi, Abdulaziz Al-Qasim, Ahmed Y. Bukhamseen
  • Patent number: 11299968
    Abstract: A system and a method for reducing annular pressure with a casing annulus pressure release system are described. The casing annulus pressure release system includes a controller, multiple sensors, and a pressure release sub-system disposed a wellbore annulus. The sensors sense wellbore conditions in the annular space and transmit signals representing the sensed wellbore conditions to the controller. The pressure release subsystem releases pressure in the annular space into the wellbore in response to a signal from the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Victor Carlos Costa de Oliveira, Khaled K. Abouelnaaj
  • Patent number: 11193371
    Abstract: A method of formation fluid sampling that includes setting a dual packer tool in a wellbore. The dual packer tool is used to isolate an interval between an upper packer and a lower packer. The method also includes drawing fluid from the interval with a lower inlet, until an oil fraction increases over a base line reading, and drawing oil from by pumping at a low rate with an upper inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Pfeiffer, Vladislav Achourov, Ashers Partouche, Pratik Halani, Simon Edmundson
  • Patent number: 11125061
    Abstract: Fluids are pumped into the wellbore by pulsing the fluids at a variable, positive pressure relative to the geologic formation until a first pressure threshold in the first fracture zone is satisfied. The pumping results in a first pressure profile in the first fracture zone representing pressures in the first fracture zone over time responsive to the pumping, and a second pressure profile in the second zone representing pressures in the second zone over time responsive to the pumping. In response to determining that the first pressure threshold is satisfied, the fluids are ceased to pump into the wellbore for a duration of time. After the duration of time, the fluids are re-pumped into the wellbore by pulsing the fluids at the variable, positive pressure relative to the geologic formation until a second pressure threshold in the first fracture zone in the first fracture zone is satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Mohamed Larbi Zeghlache, Mark Proett
  • Patent number: 11091969
    Abstract: A well tool includes a first component, a second component, an orientation assembly, and a coupling device. The first component has a first device and the second component has a passage for receiving the first component and a second device. The orientation assembly causes a predetermined relative orientation between the first and the second component. The coupling device operatively couples the first device with the second device upon the orientation assembly orienting the first component with the second component in the predetermined relative orientation. The coupling device also communicates at least one of power and information between the first and the second device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventor: Heiko Eggers
  • Patent number: 11047218
    Abstract: Fluids are pumped into the wellbore by pulsing the fluids at a variable, positive pressure relative to the geologic formation until a first pressure threshold in the first fracture zone is satisfied. The pumping results in a first pressure profile in the first fracture zone representing pressures in the first fracture zone over time responsive to the pumping, and a second pressure profile in the second zone representing pressures in the second zone over time responsive to the pumping. In response to determining that the first pressure threshold is satisfied, the fluids are ceased to pump into the wellbore for a duration of time. After the duration of time, the fluids are re-pumped into the wellbore by pulsing the fluids at the variable, positive pressure relative to the geologic formation until a second pressure threshold in the first fracture zone in the first fracture zone is satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Mohamed Larbi Zeghlache, Mark Proett
  • Patent number: 11008853
    Abstract: A method and system for performing a pressure test. The method may comprise inserting a formation testing tool into a wellbore to a first location within the wellbore, identifying one or more tool parameters of the formation testing tool, performing a first pre-test with the pressure transducer when the pressure has stabilized to identify formation parameters, inputting the formation parameters and the one or more tool parameters into a forward model, changing the one or more tool parameters to a second set of tool parameters; performing a second pre-test with the second set of tool parameters; and comparing the first pre-test to the second pre-test. A system may comprise at least one probe, a pump disposed within the formation testing tool, at least one stabilizer, a pressure transducer disposed at least partially in the at least one fluid passageway, and an information handling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Michael Jones, Bin Dai, James M. Price, Anthony Herman van Zuilekom, Darren George Gascooke
  • Patent number: 10941632
    Abstract: A system and method of controlling a dynamic time-pressure profile associated with a perforation event that includes extending a perforation assembly within a casing string; firing a perforation gun of the perforation assembly; measuring, using a sensor of the perforation assembly, pressure within the casing string, wherein the measured pressure forms the dynamic time-pressure profile; identifying a first measured pressure within the dynamic time-pressure profile; identifying, using a controller of the perforation assembly, a first difference between the first measured pressure and a first reference pressure; and adjusting, using a first pressure generator of the perforation assembly, the pressure in response to the first difference to control the dynamic time-pressure profile; wherein the sensor, the controller, and the first pressure generator provide a feedback control loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Ellis Robey, James Marshall Barker, Kuo-Chiang Chen
  • Patent number: 10908007
    Abstract: A method of measuring two or more fluid phases in a downhole well bore that comprises measuring a flow of each of the two or more phases at respective ports at which the two or more phases are unmixed within the well bore. In certain implementations, the well bore is inclined at 20 degrees or less to a horizontal axis. Each of the two or more phases can flow at a rate to achieve low Reynolds numbers in a laminar flow regime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Ahmed Y. Bukhamseen, Brett W. Bouldin, Robert John Turner, Moataz Abu AlSaud
  • Patent number: 10802168
    Abstract: Predicting hydraulic fracture treatment uses well log data and core data from one well in a given subsurface region to create a petrophysical properties model for the subsurface region. The petrophysical properties model yields fluid volumes and mineral volumes in any given well passing through the subsurface region using only well log data as inputs. The fluid and mineral volumes are used with dipole sonic data from a second well to create an elastic rock properties model for the given subsurface that yields elastic properties in any well passing through the subsurface region using only well log data and mineral and fluid volumes. For wells in the subsurface having only well log data, the petrophysical properties model and the elastic rock properties model are used with the well log data to predict an amount of recoverable hydrocarbons within wells that will respond to hydraulic fracture treatments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: CGG SERVICES SAS
    Inventor: Ted Holden
  • Patent number: 10794133
    Abstract: A downhole system includes a conveyance member having a body including an outer surface, an inner surface, and an interior portion. An actuator is arranged in the interior portion and a fluid trap is provided on the outer surface and operatively connected with the actuator. The fluid trap is selectively positionable in a first configuration establishing a continuously annular surface projecting radially outwardly of the body when being guided downhole and a second configuration allowing fluid to bypass the body when being withdrawn from a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Elias Pena, Bryan Tindall
  • Patent number: 10795044
    Abstract: A method and system for downhole, real-time determination of relative permeability with nuclear magnetic resonance and formation testing measurements is provided. The method includes introducing a nuclear magnetic (NMR) tool and a formation testing tool into a well bore penetrating a subterranean formation. The method also includes measuring a saturation of a fluid in the subterranean formation from the NMR tool, measuring a mobility of the fluid from the formation testing tool, and measuring a viscosity of the fluid. The method includes calculating a relative permeability of the subterranean formation based on the measured saturation, the measured viscosity and the measured mobility. The method also includes providing a reservoir production prediction metric based on the calculated relative permeability of the subterranean formation for facilitating a well completion operation in the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Lilong Li, Songhua Chen, Abdolhamid Hadibeik, Sami Eyuboglu, Waqar Ahmad Khan
  • Patent number: 10704369
    Abstract: Fluids are pumped into the wellbore by pulsing the fluids at a variable, positive pressure relative to the geologic formation until a first pressure threshold in the first fracture zone is satisfied. The pumping results in a first pressure profile in the first fracture zone representing pressures in the first fracture zone over time responsive to the pumping, and a second pressure profile in the second zone representing pressures in the second zone over time responsive to the pumping. In response to determining that the first pressure threshold is satisfied, the fluids are ceased to pump into the wellbore for a duration of time. After the duration of time, the fluids are re-pumped into the wellbore by pulsing the fluids at the variable, positive pressure relative to the geologic formation until a second pressure threshold in the first fracture zone in the first fracture zone is satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Mohamed Larbi Zeghlache, Mark Proett
  • Patent number: 10689972
    Abstract: Dynamic segmentation model to divide bottom hole net pressure curve into different stages based on slope of curve includes: step S1, establish calculation model of bottom hole net pressure: according to wellhead pressure during hydraulic fracturing in shale gas reservoir, calculate bottom hole net pressure based on fluid dynamics theory; step S2, establishing dynamic segmentation model to divide bottom hole net pressure curve into different stages based on slope of curve by numerical analysis theory; step S3, establish recognition model to recognize extension behavior of underground fracture network based on rock mechanics and fracture mechanics; and step S4, combine step S1, S2, and S3 to realize automatic diagnosis for wellhead pressure curve of hydraulic fracturing in shale gas horizontal well. A diagnosis and analysis method of the wellhead pressure curve of hydraulic fracturing in shale gas horizontal well is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: SOUTHWEST PETROLEUM UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jinzhou Zhao, Lan Ren, Ran Lin, Kuidong Li, Yuanzhao Li
  • Patent number: 10677028
    Abstract: A downhole artificial lift system comprises a production string for communicating fluid from a downhole location towards surface, a pump arrangement in communication with the production string for pumping fluid along the production string towards surface, and a gas lift arrangement deployed within the production string for delivering a lift gas into the production string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: Weatherford U.K. Limited
    Inventor: Martin Oliphant
  • Patent number: 10551367
    Abstract: A first wellhead fluid sample is collected from a petroleum well. Multiple geochemical water analysis (GWA) tests are preformed to form GWA water analysis data. The GWA tests determine physical properties of, and one or more geochemical water element (GWE) concentration values associated with, the first wellhead fluid sample. Correlation data associated with the GWA water analysis data is determined. A second wellhead fluid sample is collected from the petroleum well and only a water conductivity analysis is performed on the second wellhead fluid sample to determine water conductivity data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Ibrahim Mohamed El-Zefzafy, Mohammed Hassan Al Hanabi
  • Patent number: 10450824
    Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus, automatic down hole blow out preventer wherein external elastomer rings are placed on the exterior of a grooved section of drill pipe. Below the external elastomer rings is an external pressure deflector ring, which is designed to be lifted up in a kick. When a kick occurs, the increased pressure will force the external pressure deflector ring up, causing the external elastomer rings to flip up and out as to inhibit or block the further flow of fluid up the annulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Inventor: Mark Terry Sokolow
  • Patent number: 10428642
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method for transposition of logs onto a horizontal well path may include collecting vertical situational data from a plurality of depths of a vertical well in a geological formation and collecting horizontal situational data from a plurality of locations along the horizontal well path in the geological formation. The method further includes collecting geological data associated with the plurality of depths of the vertical well and generating pseudo-logs for the horizontal well path based on the plurality of depths and the associated geological data for the plurality of depths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Glenn F. Carpenter, Daniel Robert Buller, Travis Lee Jeffers, Charles Stringer, John Andrew Quirein, Yi Zhou
  • Patent number: 10358883
    Abstract: A downhole tool assembly includes a downhole tool and an anchor. The anchor is positionable at a downhole work site and includes a wet-connect port for engaging a battery pack. The tool operates until the battery runs low on power, when a low battery power alert is activated. The tool may be anchored at the work site while the battery is disconnected and retrieved to the surface for replacement. One or more charged batteries are then deployed and connected to the tool without having to remove the tool from the worksite or reposition the tool. The tool may be coupled to a wireline cable or a slickline cable or coiled tubing having a conductive wire for delivering low-voltage power to the tool. While the low-voltage power may not be adequate to operate the tool at full load, the power may be used to charge the tool during downtime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Sean Gregory Thomas, Jack Gammill Clemens, Matthew Craig Mlcak
  • Patent number: 10301894
    Abstract: An experimental device of polyphase separation of natural gas hydrate drilling fluid, and method of use thereof, comprising a solid-phase separator, a liquid injection module, a gas injection module and a gas-liquid separator. The solid-phase separator comprises a first filter device and a second filter device, the gas injection module injects gas into the solid-phase separator while the liquid injection module injects liquid into the solid-phase separator, and the gas-liquid separator is communicated with the solid-phase separator through a pressure control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: GUANGZHOU INSTITUTE OF ENERGY CONVERSION, CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
    Inventors: Xiaosen Li, Yu Zhang, Yi Wang, Gang Li, Ningsheng Huang, Zhaoyang Chen
  • Patent number: 10267145
    Abstract: A drill string tool assembly, in some embodiments, comprises a punching tool that induces fissures to increase permeability in a localized region of a borehole wall. The assembly also comprises a sensor that detects spatial features of the fissures and processing logic, coupled to the sensor and punching tool, that adapts operation of the punching tool based on the spatial features. The assembly further comprises a fluid sampling probe, coupled to the processing logic, that samples fluid from the localized region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Reena Agarwal Chanpura, Reginald Van Mayo, Curtis John Jacks
  • Patent number: 10241232
    Abstract: In some aspects, a number of subsystem models is accessed by a computer system. Each subsystem model represents dynamic attributes of a distinct physical subsystem in a subterranean region. At least one of the number of subsystem models represents dynamic attributes of a mechanical subsystem in the subterranean region. A discrete fracture network (DFN) model representing a fracture network in the subterranean region is accessed at the computer system. The DFN model includes junction models. Each junction model represents interactions between a respective set of subsystem models associated with the junction model. Junction variables of the junction model can be defined based on dynamic attributes of the respective set of subsystem models associated with the junction model. A stimulation treatment for the subterranean region can be simulated by operating the DFN model including the junction variables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Avi Lin, Dinesh Ananda Shetty, Jie Bai, Srinath Madasu, Joshua L. Camp
  • Patent number: 10228325
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a downhole fluid analysis method that includes withdrawing formation fluid into a downhole tool at a plurality of stations within a wellbore, analyzing the formation fluid within a fluid analyzer of a downhole tool to determine properties of the formation fluid for the plurality of stations, and developing, based on the determined properties of the formation fluid, a relationship for predicting viscosity from a measured optical density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Youxiang Zuo, Hadrien Dumont, Richard Jackson, Ilaria De Santo, Oliver C. Mullins, Cosan Ayan
  • Patent number: 10072500
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for characterizing a water-flooded zone in an earth formation resulting from injection of water to the formation through an injector well borehole intersecting the formation. The method includes estimating horizontal elongation of the water-flooded zone using a gravity field change in the injector well borehole. Estimating horizontal elongation may include predicting a gravity field change for each of a plurality of model water-flooded zones for the borehole, wherein each model water-flooded zone is an elliptical cylinder having finite height and semi-axes; and fitting the gravity field change to one of the predicted gravity field changes corresponding to one of the plurality of elliptical cylinder model water-flooded zones. The gravity field change may comprise a difference between a first estimated gravity field in the injector well borehole before injection and a second estimated gravity field in the injector well borehole after injection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Gleb Vladimirovich Dyatlov, Yuliy Aleksandrovich Dashevsky, Alexandr Nikolaevich Vasilevskiy
  • Patent number: 9915141
    Abstract: A system and method for installing casing in a blind horizontal well for blind horizontal directional borings. The system and method may include an example of an offset transmitter sonde assembly that contains an open central passage through which well casing can be inserted, and an example of a drill bit assembly that may be remotely uncoupled from a drill string, leaving the bit in the bore created. Remote uncoupling of the drill bit assembly tends to allow a casing to be installed in the bore while the drill string and bit remain in the bore for support during casing installation. After installation of the casing the drill bit assembly may be uncoupled from the drill string, allowing the drill string to be withdrawn from the bore, with the drill bit assembly remaining in the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Inventors: Michael D. Lubrecht, James M Doesburg, Daniel Ombalski, James Ditto
  • Patent number: 9850737
    Abstract: Systems and methods for simulating the effects of syntactic foam on annular pressure buildup during annular fluid expansion in a wellbore to mitigate annular pressure buildup in the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: LANDMARK GRAPHICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Zhengchun Liu, Robello Samuel, Adolfo Gonzales, Yongfeng Kang
  • Patent number: 9702248
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to select a subset of sensor responses as inputs to each of a plurality of pre-calibrated models in predicting each of a plurality of formation fluid properties. The sensor responses are obtained and pre-processed from a downhole measurement tool. Each of the plurality of predicted formation fluid properties are evaluated by applying constraints in hydrocarbon concentrations, geo-physics, and/or petro-physics. The selection of sensor responses and the associated models from a pre-constructed model base or a candidate pool are adjusted and reprocessed to validate model selection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dingding Chen, Christopher Michael Jones, David L. Perkins, Jing Shen, Li Gao, Michael T. Pelletier
  • Patent number: 9632488
    Abstract: An electronic device for deployment in a remote location such as a well-bore comprises two main device terminals for connection to a remote power supply and communication assembly via two electrical couplings; a power storage arrangement (C1) having two power input terminals; a device communication arrangement having two device communication terminals; a device switching arrangement (S2) for selectively connecting each of the two power input terminals or each of the two device communication terminals to a respective one of the main device terminals; and a device controller for controlling the operation of the switching arrangement. A power supply and communication assembly is also provided and arranged to be coupled to one or more of the devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Comcon Oil Limited
    Inventor: Philip Hockley
  • Patent number: 9581017
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring formation properties including coiled tubing fitted with a bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly includes apparatus to measure formation fluid properties, apparatus and methods to transmit the formation fluid properties to a surface monitoring system, apparatus and methods to isolate a section of a wellbore, and apparatus and methods to control the flow of fluid entering the coiled tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Douglas Pipchuk, Hubertus V. Thomeer, Christopher Sarvari
  • Patent number: 9556716
    Abstract: The need to have the housing of an ESP suspended by the discharge flange to allow room for downhole thermal expansion in a situation where there is no surface access to the lower end of the ESP when the discharge flange is bolted up is addressed by building the ESP on a support that is removable downhole without intervention. A controlled electrolytic material or CEM can be used or other materials that meet the structural support requirement for the ESP and then after a predetermined time lose their capacity to support leaving the ESP suspended by its discharge flange and capable of growing under thermal loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Charles Thomas Kirkpatrick
  • Patent number: 9404333
    Abstract: A well completion system in accordance with one or more embodiments includes a shallow set barrier installed in an upper completion section of a well, a deep set barrier installed in a lower section of the well, a first sensor disposed to gauge a pressure in a first area between the deep set barrier and the shallow set barrier and a communication device to communicate the gauged pressure. The lower section may be located below a production completion when it is installed in the upper completion section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dinesh R. Patel
  • Patent number: 9366134
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system includes a tool node disposed within a wellbore, and a transitory sensing node configured to be communicated through the wellbore, wherein the transitory sensing node is configured to measure a wellbore parameter, and wherein the transitory sensing node communicates with the tool node via a near field communication (NFC) signal. A wellbore servicing method includes positioning a tool node within a wellbore, moving a transitory sensing node through the wellbore such that the transitory sensing node comes into communication with the tool node, wherein the transitory sensing node is configured to measure a wellbore parameter during movement through the wellbore, and wherein the transitory sensing node communicates with the tool node via a near field communication (NFC) signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary William Walton, Matthew Todd Howell, Michael Linley Fripp
  • Patent number: 9243493
    Abstract: A system and method for determining at least one fluid characteristic of a downhole fluid sample using a downhole tool are provided. In one example, the method includes performing a calibration process that correlates optical and density sensor measurements of a fluid sample in a downhole tool at a plurality of pressures. The calibration process is performed while the fluid sample is not being agitated. At least one unknown value of a density calculation is determined based on the correlated optical sensor measurements and density sensor measurements. A second optical sensor measurement of the fluid sample is obtained while the fluid sample is being agitated. A density of the fluid sample is calculated based on the second optical sensor measurement and the at least one unknown value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Kai Hsu, Kentaro Indo, Oliver C. Mullins, Peter S. Hegeman
  • Patent number: 9068405
    Abstract: A sample bottle assembly. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are apparatuses including a first drill collar that includes: a first outer surface; a pocket accessible through an aperture in the first outer surface; a bottle assembly disposed within the pocket; a first end-clamp coupled within a first recess disposed at an upper end of the pocket to at least partially retain the bottle assembly in the pocket; and a second end-clamp coupled within a second recess disposed at the lower end of the pocket to at least partially retain the bottle assembly in the pocket. The bottle assembly further includes: a sample bottle having an axial length; and a sleeve comprising a bore, the sample bottle received within the bore, and the sleeve has an axial length substantially the same as the sample bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher V. Sherrill, Clive D. Menezes, David Welshans
  • Patent number: 9027640
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the operation of a well involves locating a pressure monitoring device downhole and arranging it to be operative: to monitor a characteristic pressure profile of a well during a certain time span controlled by a downhole clock associated with the device; to monitor the temperature downhole in the region of the clock; to calibrate a time reading of the downhole clock with reference to the monitored temperature to correct for drift between the clock time and real time resulting from the downhole elevated temperature; and to respond and generate a triggering output when a significant deviation to the pressure profile is introduced into the well as a control signal to the monitoring device, by comparing two separate pressure profiles within the time span, the device only generating the triggering output when the same pressure profile is monitored twice within the time span.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Omega Completion Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Buyers, David Forsyth
  • Publication number: 20140367093
    Abstract: A down-hole tool for pressure testing production tubing within a borehole of a well returning the well to production, includes an anti-rotational device comprising a tubular housing having a first end, a second end, an outer surface, and at least one anti-rotational wing disposed on the outer surface of the tubular housing, radially extendable to engage a radial surface of the borehole to anchor the production tubing thereto; a valve for controlling the flow of down-hole fluids within the production tubing, the valve comprising a first valve member fixedly positioned within the tubular housing of the anti-rotational device and a second valve member positionable between a closed position and an open position; and a reactivation device comprising means for axially engaging an axial surface of the borehole, the reactivation device affixed to the first end of the tubular housing, wherein the production tubing may be pressure tested when the valve is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: David A. Howell, John M. Lynk, Bill B. Blatnick
  • Patent number: 8899320
    Abstract: A formation testing method can include interconnecting multiple pressure sensors and multiple perforating guns in a perforating string, the pressure sensors being longitudinally spaced apart along the perforating string, firing the perforating guns and the pressure sensors measuring pressure variations in a wellbore after firing the perforating guns. Another formation testing method can include interconnecting multiple pressure sensors and multiple perforating guns in a perforating string, firing the perforating guns, thereby perforating a wellbore at multiple formation intervals, each of the pressure sensors being positioned proximate a corresponding one of the formation intervals, and each pressure sensor measuring pressure variations in the wellbore proximate the corresponding interval after firing the perforating guns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Cam Le
  • Publication number: 20140318768
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to control and exert a predetermined force back on the wellbore thereby controlling the hydrostatic force on the formation surrounding the well-bore, the inflow of fluids from the surrounding formation and the drilling circulating medium. The apparatus comprises and the method utilizes a pump having at least one pair of intermeshing and opposite-handed helical screws disposed within a chamber for restricting the flow of well bore returns. The speed of the pump may be varied to selectively restrict the flow of well bore returns from the well bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Boyd
  • Patent number: 8863833
    Abstract: A system monitors and controls the injection of additives into formation fluids recovered through a well may include a plurality of nozzles that receive the injection fluid from an umbilical disposed in a well. Each nozzle may have an associated flow control element that is configured to affect a flow of the injection fluid ejected through the associated nozzle. The umbilical may include one or more filters positioned in a first of two parallel conduits formed along the umbilical. An occlusion member restricts in a second of the two conduits. The occlusion member permits flow in the second conduit after a predetermined pressure differential exists in the second conduit. The system may include a plurality of pressure sensors disposed along the umbilical, and an injector unit that dispenses fluid into the umbilical. A controller operatively coupled to the injector unit operates the injector in response to measurements from the pressure sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Stephen Mescall, Matthew C. Stone, Louis F. LaFleur, James Joseph Freeman
  • Publication number: 20140290941
    Abstract: A method for determining formation fluid sample quality includes analyzing sample capture data to identify distinguishing features indicative of whether a successful sample capture has occurred within a downhole tool. The method further includes prioritizing, based on the analysis, the sample capture data for transmission to a surface system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Steven Villareal, Julian Pop, Shahid A. Haq
  • Publication number: 20140290940
    Abstract: Systems and methods for the advance, real-time and/or post-event evaluation of inaccessible passive pressure containment barriers using an iterative process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: Ronald Earl Sweatman, Robert Franklin Mitchell
  • Patent number: 8844627
    Abstract: An intelligent well system and method has a sand face completion and a monitoring system to monitor application of a well operation. Various equipment and services may be used. In another aspect, the invention provides a monitoring system for determining placement of a well treatment. Yet another aspect of the invention is an instrumented sand screen. Another aspect is a connector for routing control lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Rodney J. Wetzel, Peter V. Howard, Craig D. Johnson, Sudhir Pai, David R. Smith, Jake A. Danos, Patrick W. Bixenman
  • Patent number: 8833448
    Abstract: A system for pressure testing the joints and walls of a production pipe includes a fluid system component that can be disposed at a first end of the production pipe so as to seal off the first end of the production pipe. The fluid system component prevents the flow of fluid out of the first end of the production pipe when the pressure within the production pipe is below a predetermined level. The fluid system component includes a sacrificial element that is adapted for preferential failure when the pressure within the production pipe exceeds the predetermined level. Upon failure of the sacrificial element, fluid is able to flow out of the production pipe through the fluid system component. The system may also include a test plug that prevents the activation of a drain component in the production pipe during the pressure testing of the production pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A. Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 8807212
    Abstract: A pressure measurement system for use with a subterranean well can include a chamber positioned in the well, the chamber having an upper portion and a lower portion as positioned in the well, and a device which, in response to gravity acting on the device, selects the upper portion of the chamber for communication with a line extending to a remote location. A method of measuring pressure in a well can include introducing a chamber into the well, then selecting a vertically upper portion of the chamber, and establishing communication between the upper portion of the chamber and a line extending to a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel D. Shaw
  • Patent number: 8783381
    Abstract: A method of testing an earth formation can include incrementally opening a choke while drilling into the formation is ceased, thereby reducing pressure in a wellbore, and detecting an influx into the wellbore due to the reducing pressure in the wellbore. Another method of testing an earth formation can include drilling into the formation, with an annulus between a drill string and a wellbore being pressure isolated from atmosphere, then incrementally opening a choke while drilling is ceased, thereby reducing pressure in the wellbore, detecting an influx into the wellbore due to the reducing pressure in the wellbore, and determining approximate formation pore pressure as pressure in the wellbore when the influx is detected. Drilling fluid may or may not flow through the drill string when the influx is detected. A downhole pressure sensor can be used to verify pressure in the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart M. Jeffries
  • Publication number: 20140196893
    Abstract: Many wellbore service operations involve placing a line in the wellbore. The line may be used to transmit power to downhole tools, convey signals from downhole-measurement instruments, or both. A problem associated with such operations involves drag forces experienced by the line as process fluids flow through the well, particularly the interior of a tubular body such as casing. The drag forces may cause the line to fail. Magnetizing the line solves this problem. During deployment, the line will migrate and become attached to the casing. Drag forces are significantly reduced because the line is no longer surrounded by moving fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Pierre Vigneaux