Well Logging Patents (Class 166/254.2)
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Patent number: 9702632Abstract: An apparatus and a method for the treating gases, such as natural gas extracted as shale gas, has a heat-insulated protective housing with a stratified liquid reservoir. An outer heat exchanger outside the protective housing has a primary side about which ambient air flows as heating medium and a secondary side for cold stratified reservoir liquid to be heated and fed back to the stratified reservoir. A defined quantity of gas flows through an inner heat exchanger inside the housing and is heated to a defined gas temperature by heated stratified reservoir liquid. The cooled stratified reservoir liquid leaving the inner heat exchanger feeds back to the stratified reservoir. The heated gas leaving the inner heat exchanger flows to a gas analysis apparatus inside or outside the heat-insulated protective housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2013Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Inventor: Martin Hess
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Patent number: 9651476Abstract: A method for downhole fluid analysis by optical spectroscopy with photoacoustic detection includes positioning a photoacoustic system within a wellbore, applying a laser pulse to the fluid sample using the pulsed laser system, detecting, by the acoustic sensor, a time-resolved acoustic pulse generated by absorption of the laser pulse by the fluid sample, and determining a property of the fluid sample using the detected time resolved acoustic pulse. The photoacoustic system includes a pulsed laser system and an acoustic sensor.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2014Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Andrew J. Speck, Andrew E. Pomerantz, Oliver C. Mullins
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Patent number: 9523254Abstract: A capillary delivery system includes a capillary pump down tool. The capillary pump down tool is pumped into a well until it engages a landing sub that is positioned in a lateral section of the well. The capillary may be a fiber optic cable secured to the pump down tool. When the pump down tool reaches a desired location in the well the fiber optic cable and/or sensors in the pump down tool will sense parameters in the well.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2012Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: SageRider, IncorporatedInventors: Ryan Barton, Tyler Wall, William Shroyer, Steven Lee Jackson
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Patent number: 9435191Abstract: A sensor flap for a downhole tool. The downhole tool is positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The sensor flap includes a sensor housing and at least one sensor. The sensor housing is operatively connectable to the downhole tool. The sensor housing is movably positionable between a retracted position in the downhole tool and an extended position in contact with a wall of the wellbore. The sensor is positionable in the sensor housing, and may include a seismic detector to measure seismic activity when the sensor housing is in contact with the wall of the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2013Date of Patent: September 6, 2016Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Tatsuki Endo
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Patent number: 9435198Abstract: Compositions and methods for improving wellbores stability of a hydrocarbon bearing shale formation using nanoparticles to decrease swelling and plug pore throats.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2014Date of Patent: September 6, 2016Assignee: BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEMInventors: Martin E. Chenevert, Mukul M. Sharma
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Patent number: 9382792Abstract: A method and system for determining information about a wellbore with coiled tubing. A downhole device may be positioned within coiled tubing and run down the wellbore to determine diagnostic information about a location with the wellbore. The downhole device may store diagnostic information in a storage device that may be analyzed when the device is returned to the surface. A downhole device may be connected to the end of a string of coiled tubing that includes a diagnostic device and memory sealed in a chamber. A flow path past the chamber is in communication with the coiled tubing string permitting the flow of fluid past the chamber. A downhole device including a diagnostic device may be connected to a recess in an exterior of a coiled tubing string.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2014Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventor: Juan Carlos Flores
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Patent number: 9275009Abstract: Variable volume systems and methods of use thereof described herein are capable of making calibrated determinations of fluid properties and phase behavior of a fluid sample. The determinations can be calibrated based on one or more calibration functions, such as system volume corrected for pressure and temperature variations. Cross-checking the results of measurements can be used to determine accuracy of the calibration or monitor for leaks or other anomalies of the variable volume systems. The variable volume systems can be implemented in a well logging tool and are capable of being calibrated downhole.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2012Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kai Hsu, Kentaro Indo, Sihar Marpaung, Peter S. Hegeman, Michael Toribio
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Patent number: 9238960Abstract: A method for using markers with a drilling plan uses a first log file of a first well in order to identify and store one or more markers that have a name, a true vertical depth (TVD) and a waveform. Second well log data generated while a second well is being drilled is monitored in real time. The second well log data is compared to the one or more markers to located a match to at least one marker in a predetermined TVD range. An estimated TVD value and an uncertainty range value are assigned to each of the at least one planned marker. When a matching marker is located for one of the one or more markers in the predetermined TVD range a report is generated.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2015Date of Patent: January 19, 2016Assignee: Hunt Advanced Drilling Technologies, LLCInventors: Todd W. Benson, Brian Eugene Stokeld, Dwight A. Lockhart
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Patent number: 9181784Abstract: An apparatus for characterizing well effluents comprises coiled tubing, an artificial lift mechanism attached to the coiled tubing and a logging tool fitted with sensors capable of characterizing well effluents associated with operation of the artificial lift mechanism. Also a method for characterizing well effluents that includes lowering a logging tool fitted with a multitude of sensors capable of characterizing well effluents with a cable and lowering an artificial lift mechanism on coiled tubing capable of flowing well effluent past the logging tool. Further a method for treating a well including characterizing well effluents by lowering a logging tool fitted with a multitude of sensors capable of characterizing well effluents on a cable and lowering an artificial lift mechanism on coiled tubing capable of flowing well effluent past the logging tool; and injecting a treatment into a desired formation selected using information obtained while characterizing the well effluents.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: November 10, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Bruno Barbosa Alves, Hisham Abou El Azm
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Patent number: 9157287Abstract: A technique facilitates conveyance of equipment along a wellbore or other tubular structure. A tractor is provided with a plurality of wheels oriented to engage a surrounding wall. Rotation of the wheels drives the tractor and causes longitudinal movement of the tractor with respect to the surrounding wall via a tangential force created between each wheel and the surrounding wall. Each wheel comprises teeth having a wheel tooth geometry which enhances cooperation with the surrounding wall. For example, the wheel tooth geometry may be designed to cooperate with the tangential force to push debris out of the teeth of each wheel during rotation of the wheel along the surrounding wall. In some applications, the wheel tooth geometry is designed to present a plurality of raised, rounded surfaces which engage the surrounding wall with a low stress impact.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Alexander Slocum, Keith Nelson, Irene Gabler, James Bayless
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Patent number: 9051817Abstract: A pipe conveyed extendable well logging assembly includes a pipe end protector for preventing wellbore debris from entering an opening at the end of the pipe from which a logging tool is extendable. Plugging of the opening is prevented to ensure proper deployment of the extendable logging tool.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2009Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: John Hudson Hales, Timothy Gordon Schacherer
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Patent number: 9000942Abstract: A telemetry apparatus and method for communicating data from a down-hole location through a borehole to the surface is described including a light source, an optical fiber being placed along the length of the wellbore and receiving light from the light source, a transducer located such as to produce a force field (e.g. a magnetic field) across the optical fiber and its protective hull without mechanical penetration of the hull at the down-hole location, one or more sensors for measuring down-hole conditions and/or parameters, a controller to provide a modulated signal to the magnetic field generator, said modulated signal being under operating conditions representative of measurements by the one or more sensors, and an optical detector adapted to detect changes in the light intensity or polarization of light passing through the fiber.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ian Atkinson, Yuehua Chen, Arthur Hartog, Franck Monmont, Rogerio Ramos, Robert Schroeder, Jeffrey Tarvin
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Publication number: 20150090444Abstract: A wellbore instrument system includes a pipe string extending from earth's surface to a selected depth in a wellbore. The pipe string includes at least one of an electrical conductor and an optical fiber signal channel. A power sub including an electric power source is coupled proximate a lower end of the pipe string. At least one electrically powered wireline configurable wellbore instrument is coupled to the power source in the sub.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2013Publication date: April 2, 2015Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ashers Partouche, Harold Steven Bissonnette, Shyam B. Mehta, Reza Taherian, Gbenga Onadeko, Shardul J. Sarhad
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Publication number: 20150047837Abstract: A well completion system having (i) a completion assembly; (ii) a service tool positioned within the completion assembly, wherein the service tool includes a substantially straight bore central passage from an upper end of the service tool to a lower end of the service tool; and (iii) a one-way valve positioned in an assembly annulus formed between the service tool and an inner surface of the completion assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2014Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventors: Dewayne Turner, Jed Landry, Anthony Thomas, David Walker
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Publication number: 20150021020Abstract: A production logging tool (PLT) is conveyed within production tubing containing production fluid flow established by zonal fluid flow from formation zones. The PLT measures a flow rate of the production fluid flow at each of a plurality of depths associated with a corresponding one of the zones. A flow rate of the zonal fluid flow from each zone is determined based on the flow rates of the production fluid flow measured at each of the depths. The PLT measures proportions of compositional components of the production fluid flow at each of the depths. A flow rate of each compositional component of the zonal fluid flow from each zone is determined based on the determined flow rate of the zonal fluid flow from each zone and the proportions of compositional components of the production fluid flow measured at each of the depths.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2013Publication date: January 22, 2015Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Andrew Colin Whittaker, A. Ballard Andrews, Andrew Speck
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Patent number: 8917094Abstract: Downhole tools and techniques acquire information regarding nearby conductors such as pipes, well casing, and conductive formations. At least some method embodiments provide a current flow along a drill string in a borehole. The current flow disperses into the surrounding formation and causes a secondary current flow in the nearby conductor. The magnetic field from the secondary current flow can be detected using one or more azimuthally-sensitive antennas. Direction and distance estimates may be obtainable from the azimuthally-sensitive measurements, and can be used as the basis for steering the drillstring relative to the distant conductor. Possible techniques for providing current flow in the drillstring include imposing a voltage across an insulated gap or using a toroid around the drillstring to induce the current flow.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2011Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Michael S. Bittar, Jing Li
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Patent number: 8893808Abstract: A self-centering tool for use in a wellbore includes a centering mechanism, a biasing mechanism, and a release mechanism. The centering mechanism includes at least one arm that is configured to move from a first position to a second position. The arm urges a centerline of the tool towards a centerline of the wellbore when in its second position. A biasing mechanism is coupled to the centering mechanism and urges the arm from its first position to its second position. The release mechanism is electro-mechanically actuated. In its locked position, the release mechanism prevents the arm from moving towards its second position, while in its released position the arm is able to move towards its second position. The release mechanism is a split-spool type mechanism. A control system that includes one or more sensors controls the operation of the release mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2014Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Inventor: Cary A. Valerio
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Patent number: 8875808Abstract: A method for conveying logging tools (LT) and obtaining well log data from a wellbore is disclosed. The method includes running a drill string (DS) including a landing sub (LS) disposed near the lower end into a wellbore. A logging tool string (LTS) is inserted into the upper end of the DS bore. A fluid is pumped into the upper end of the DS bore to assist movement of the LTS. As the fluid is pumped behind the LTS, the cable at the surface is spooled out and the fluid pressure is monitored. The landing assembly of the LTS is landed in the LS. A diagnostic test is activated and run to determine proper functioning of the LT. A release mechanism releases the running tool portion of the LTS. The cable is spooled in. The drill pipe string is pulled upward in the wellbore as the LT are recording data.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Ronald Eugene Cherry, Andrew Albert Hrametz, Nathan James Harder
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Patent number: 8863836Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and systems for obtaining log data on a cased wellbore concurrently with wellbore cleanout operations. In some such embodiments, a combination of at least one cleaning means and at least one logging tool are integrated or otherwise affixed to a common workstring, such that both wellbore cleanout and logging operations can be accomplished without having to remove the workstring from the well between such operations. In some such embodiments, the one or more logging tool(s) transmit information about the cased wellbore to the surface wirelessly. In some or other such embodiments, such information is transmitted via cable, in real-time or in batch mode. In some or still other such embodiments, such information is stored in memory and accessed subsequent to the workstring being extracted from the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2010Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventor: Earl J. Coludrovich, III
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Patent number: 8851193Abstract: A self-centering tool for use in a wellbore includes a centering mechanism, a biasing mechanism, and a release mechanism. The centering mechanism includes at least one arm that is configured to move from a first position to a second position. The arm urges a centerline of the tool towards a centerline of the wellbore when in its second position. A biasing mechanism is coupled to the centering mechanism and urges the arm from its first position to its second position. The release mechanism is electro-mechanically actuated. In its locked position, the release mechanism prevents the arm from moving towards its second position, while in its released position the arm is able to move towards its second position. The release mechanism is a split-spool type mechanism. A control system that includes one or more sensors controls the operation of the release mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2014Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Inventor: Cary A. Valerio
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Publication number: 20140262250Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for inferring one or more physical property parameters of a sub-surface media by inverting converted wave data acquired during a seismic survey. Composite seismic traces are generated at a plurality of survey azimuths (step 609). These composite traces are composed such that their amplitudes are free of effects of subsurface anisotropy. At least one of the generated composite seismic traces is then inverted by isotropic inversion to determine a property parameter of the subsurface media (step 623).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2012Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventors: Reeshidev Bansal, Michael P. Matheney
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Patent number: 8823379Abstract: The invention relates to a logging tool (1) for determining properties of a fluid (2) surrounding the tool arranged downhole in a casing (3) comprising a wall (4) and having a longitudinal extension. The logging tool has a substantially longitudinal cylindrical shape with a longitudinal axis and, when seen in cross-section, a periphery (5). Moreover, the logging tool comprises a plurality of electrodes (6) arranged spaced around the longitudinal axis in the periphery of the tool so that the fluid flows between the electrodes and the casing wall and a means for measuring the capacitance between two electrodes in all possible combinations giving n*(n?1)/2 capacitance measurements for n electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2009Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Welltec A/SInventors: Jørgen Hallundbaek, Jimmy Kjaersgaard-Rasmussen
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Patent number: 8813869Abstract: Methods and related systems are described for measuring and analyzing refracted acoustic energy. A plurality of receivers mounted are on a downhole tool, and are arranged and adapted to receive refracted acoustic energy from a downhole formation. Measurements of refracted acoustic energy is analyzed such that information relating to an azimuthal direction relative to the downhole tool of an interface within the downhole formation can be estimated. The receivers can be mounted on a drill collar as part of a LWD tool and steering of the drilling trajectory can be based in part on the estimated formation information.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Nicholas Bennett, Jakob Brandt Utne Haldorsen, Hiroaki Yamamoto, Nobuyasu Hirabayasbi, Takeshi Endo, Richard Timothy Coates
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Patent number: 8800654Abstract: A wellbore machining device is proposed for machining a tubular component of a wellbore. The device includes a control unit at the surface level of the wellbore and a down-hole tool unit connected to the control unit through a wire line. The tool unit includes an elongated guide member, a tool member movably supported on the guide member with respect to at least three axes of motion and a plurality of actuators controlled by the control unit and adapted to move the tool member with respect to the axes of motion. The tool unit further includes two anchor members each mounted to an axial end of the guide member and adapted to releasably clamp the tool unit to the tubular component. The control unit and the tool unit form a computer numerical control device (CNC device) wherein the actuators are electric servo motors controlling an actual position of the tool member with respect to a path and/or a sequence of desired position defined by the control unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2008Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Statoil Petroleum ASInventor: Steinar Wasa Tverlid
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Patent number: 8763695Abstract: A method of servicing a wellbore comprising placing an oil-based wellbore servicing fluid comprising an electrical conductivity enhancer into the wellbore and logging the wellbore by resistivity imaging. A method of servicing a wellbore comprising introducing an oil-based drilling fluid to a wellbore, identifying a subsection of the wellbore for imaging, introducing to the subsection of the wellbore a oil-based wellbore servicing fluid comprising a carbon nanotube wherein the servicing fluid comprising the electrical conductivity enhancer mixes with the oil-based drilling fluid; and imaging the subsection of the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2010Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Ryan van Zanten
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Patent number: 8726983Abstract: A method and an apparatus log an underbalanced open hole well without killing the well or causing formation damage to maintain well control during the process. The installation of the well logging equipment is accomplished while holding the underbalanced open hole at its optimal pressure, then conveying the logging string on a drill string into the open hole portion to total depth and logging while removing the logging string from the total depth to be logged with a cable side entry sub. The invention also provides a unique configuration of equipment to accomplish the logging using what is normally referred to as tough logging condition techniques.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Waqar Khan
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Patent number: 8708041Abstract: A wellbore instrument system includes a pipe string extending from earth's surface into a wellbore. At least a portion of the pipe string includes a signal communication channel having a cable, such as an electrical conductor or an optical fiber. At least one wireline configurable wellbore instrument is coupled to the pipe string and has at least one sensor therein for measuring a physical parameter. The at least one instrument is in signal communication with the signal communication channel in the pipe string. The system includes a controller functionally associated with the at least one instrument and configured to initiate operation of the at least one sensor upon detection of a command signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2009Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Laurent Villegas, Christopher S. Del Campo, Shyam B. Mehta, Reza Taherian, Jean-Marc Follini
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Patent number: 8689867Abstract: A well logging instrument deployment device according to this aspect of the invention includes a housing configured to be coupled to a pipe string. A latch disposed in the housing and is configured to retain a well logging instrument in a first longitudinal position inside the pipe string. An actuator is configured to release the latch to enable longitudinal movement of the well logging instrument inside the pipe string. A signal detector is operatively coupled to the actuator and is the configured to detect a command signal for operating the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2009Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Tom MacDougall, Harold S. Bissonnette
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Patent number: 8631867Abstract: A method for monitoring a fracturing operation in a target well comprising extending a seismic sensor in a tubing string to a first position in an well offset from the target well. A coolant fluid is circulated through the tubing string for a predetermined time. The tubing string is retracted to a second uphole position such that the cooled seismic sensor is exposed in the offset wellbore. A seismic signal emitted during the fracturing operation of the target well is sensed in the offset well.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2009Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Darrell Gordy, Dwight D. Fulton
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Publication number: 20140014333Abstract: In a method of evaluation of deposits and opening of productive formations in recovery of oil or gas, a previously drilled well is located and investigated to determine at least one first zone which is not productive for oil or gas extraction and at least one second zone which is productive for oil or gas extraction; the at least one first zone which is not productive for oil or gas extraction is skipped, while hydroslotting is performed in the at least one second zone by making a plurality of slots and thereby producing unloaded regions so as to provide again a flow of oil or gas in the previously drilled well which was not in operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: ARGOSY TECHNOLOGIESInventors: Leon Marmorshteyn, Peter Mouler
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Patent number: 8573298Abstract: A method for evaluating an earth formation from a well bore, that includes: collecting at least one of geochemical data, petrophysical data and geomechanical data from a wellbore; and identifying depositional facies of the earth surrounding the wellbore. A computer program product and a system are provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2008Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: David J. Jacobi, Mikhail N. Gladkikh, Brian J. LeCompte, Freddy E. Mendez, Gabor Hursan, See Hong Ong, John M. Longo
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Patent number: 8544534Abstract: A wellbore instrument system includes a pipe string extending from earth's surface to a selected depth in a wellbore. The pipe string includes at least one of an electrical conductor and an optical fiber signal channel. A power sub including an electric power source is coupled proximate a lower end of the pipe string. At least one electrically powered wireline configurable wellbore instrument is coupled to the power source in the sub.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2010Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ashers Partouche, Harold Steven Bissonnette, Shyam B. Mehta, Reza Taherian, Gbenga Onadeko, Shardul Sarhad
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Patent number: 8535026Abstract: A mechanism for moving elements in a fluid filled housing using a pump with the element to be moved attached rigidly to the pump or to a port assembly connected to the pump. The pump assembly or port assembly moves as a result of differential pressure created between a first and a second chamber separated from each other by the pump assembly or port assembly. Movement of the fluid in one direction increases or decreases pressure, the pressure change resulting in a net force in one direction or the other.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kuo-Chiang Chen, Aaron Jacobson, Nathaniel Wicks, Murat Ocalan
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Patent number: 8522869Abstract: A fiber optic based logging assembly deliverable via coiled tubing. The downhole portion of the assembly is directed to develop a logging profile of a well by way of the fiber optic line. Thus, a downhole battery may be provided with the tool. Further, opto-electric interfaces may be provided with the assembly to convert between electrical and optical communication signals. Additionally, with the reduced profile of an optical communication line through the coiled tubing portion of the assembly, an operator may elect to perform treatment applications in real-time. That is, in certain circumstances, the operator may direct a treatment application utilizing the downhole assembly in response to the developing well profile (i.e. without first requiring that the assembly be withdrawn and replaced with a solely dedicated treatment assembly).Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jose Vidal Noya, Soon Seong Chee, Sarmad Adnan
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Patent number: 8490693Abstract: A method for performing field operations is disclosed. The method includes obtaining a first set of acoustic radial profiles of a subterranean formation prior to induction of a fracture disposed about the wellbore, obtaining a second set of acoustic radial profiles of the subterranean formation subsequent to the induction of the fracture, comparing the first set of acoustic radial profiles and the second set of acoustic radial profiles based on a pre-determined criterion to generate a comparison result, determining, based on the comparison result, an orientation of one or more portions of the fracture, and adjusting the operations of the oilfield based on the orientation.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Richard A. Birchwood, Tom R. Bratton
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Patent number: 8485253Abstract: An anti-lock system, device and method for logging a wellbore are presented. The anti-lock system of a downhole tool preferably includes a first arm, a second arm, a pad, a swivel bearing between the first arm and the pad, and an anti-locking device. The first arm has an arm first end connected to the tool body of the downhole tool and an arm second end connected to a first end of the pad. The second arm has an arm first end connected to the tool body of the downhole tool and an arm second end connected to a second end of the pad. The swivel bearing between the first arm and the pad pivotally connects the first arm to the pad. The anti-locking device is coupled to the swivel bearing, and preferably includes an anti-lock biasing member for maintaining a connection between the first arm and the pad at the swivel bearing in an engaged position during normal logging and for allowing the connection to rotate toward a biased position when a binding force is encountered in the arm system.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Gregoire Jacob
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Patent number: 8464791Abstract: A method and apparatus for logging a wellbore with an arm system is provided. The arm system has a pad for measuring a downhole parameter and a first arm having an arm first end connected to a tool body of the downhole tool and an arm second end connected to the pad. The arm system has a second arm having an arm first end connected to the tool body of the downhole tool and an arm second end connected to the pad. The arm system has a sliding shuffle adapted to allow a portion of the arm system to translate relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool body and a first biasing member wherein the first biasing member and the sliding shuffle are for moving the pad between a closed position proximate the tool body and an engaged position proximate the wellbore wall.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Gregoire Jacob
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Publication number: 20130118733Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for estimating a downhole property of interest. The apparatus includes a carrier configured to be conveyed in a borehole penetrating an earth formation and carry a releasable sensor. The sensor is configured to be released by the carrier into drilling fluid and to sense the property. The sensor includes a memory to store sensed property data. The data can be downloaded from the memory wirelessly with the sensor in the drilling fluid or by retrieving the sensor from the drilling fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2011Publication date: May 16, 2013Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventor: Sunil KUMAR
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Publication number: 20130105150Abstract: A well completion method provides for monitoring of reservoir pressure and saturation levels for two reservoirs from a single monitoring well. The well completion extends vertically through an upper and a lower reservoir. The well is cased, cemented, and perforated across the lower reservoir. A cement free zone is formed by cementing the casing string within the wellbore above an external casing packer above the upper reservoir. The casing string is perforated to allow fluid from the upper reservoir to flow through the cement free zone. A tubing string is landed and set within the casing string. The tubing string is sealed above and below the perforation at the cement free zone to prevent communication between fluid from the upper reservoir and the lower reservoir. The upper reservoir is monitored at the cement free zone, and the lower reservoir is monitored below an end of the tubing string.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2011Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANYInventor: Fahad Al-Ajmi
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Publication number: 20130081807Abstract: First equipment is provided in a first lateral branch of a well, and second equipment in a second lateral branch of the well. Cross-lateral logging is performed using the first and second equipment in the corresponding first and second lateral branches.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Stephen Dyer, John Algeroy, Marian Faur, Omer Gurpinar
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Patent number: 8408355Abstract: A downhole tool for subsurface disposal is provided. The tool comprises an elongated tool body, an enclosure attached to an exterior surface of the tool body. The enclosure comprises at least one transducer disposed at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the enclosure, and an electronics board coupled to and disposed adjacent to the at least one transducer. The enclosure also defines an internal cavity, and the internal cavity contains a fluid for insulating the at least one transducer from a downhole environment. The fluid is in direct contact with the at least one transducer and the electronics board.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2012Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Miguel F. Pabon, Fernando Garcia Osuna, David B. Ayers
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Publication number: 20130068453Abstract: A method for producing hydrocarbons in a subterranean well useful for observing properties of one or more subterranean zones, includes the steps of: (a) installing a lower straddle packer in a vertical well bore below a junction with a lateral well section; (b) installing an upper straddle packer in a vertical well bore above the junction with the lateral well section; (c) conveying hydrocarbons from the from the lateral well to the surface with a tubing; (d) observing pressure information in at least one zone with a pressure gauge located in the vertical well bore below the lower straddle packer; and (e) obtaining information in the at least one zone with logging equipment run through the tubing. A sidetrack window may be installed in the tubing between the lower straddle packer and the upper straddle packer for providing access to the lateral well section.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2011Publication date: March 21, 2013Applicant: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANYInventors: Abdulaziz A. Al-Ajaji, Fahad A. Al-Ajmi, Mohammad S. Kanfar
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Publication number: 20130062057Abstract: Subterranean formation locations/heights of tagged proppant doped with a high thermal neutron capture cross-section material are determined using data obtained from before and after frac logging passes through a well of a logging tool having near and far neutron dectors. Proppant location inaccuracies arising from changes in lithology between a zone of no interest and a proppant-containing formation zone are made, after any required normalization for a between-log change in borehole fluid, using an observed difference between the near/far detector count rate ratios in the two passes to determine a count rate differential correction to be applied to the before frac detector count rate. The corrected before frac count rate log is then overlaid with the after frac count rate log such that suppression in the after frac count rate log relative to the corrected before frac count rate log indicates the presence of proppant.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: CARBO CERAMICS INC.Inventor: Harry D. Smith, JR.
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Publication number: 20130056201Abstract: A method of evaluating a hydrocarbon-containing subterranean formation to identify potentially productive zones within the formation. The method may be particularly useful for evaluating formations penetrated by at least one directionally drilled wellbore. The method can include releasing, capturing, and measuring at least one property related to the hydrocarbon materials entrapped in rock samples obtained from the formation, and the results of the analysis can be used to perform at least one wellbore-related activity, such as drilling, stimulating, and/or producing a new or existing wellbore.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventor: William David Chandler, JR.
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Patent number: 8390295Abstract: A system for measuring a resistivity parameter of an earth formation includes: at least one measurement electrode electrically connected to a first electrical source; at least one guard electrode; a shielding electrode interposed between the at least one guard electrode and the at least one measurement electrode, the shielding electrode being electrically connected to a second electrical source independent from the first electrical source, and the guard electrode being electrically connected to a third electrical source independent of the first and second electrical sources; at least one return electrode; insulators positioned between (i) the measurement electrode and the shielding electrode, (ii) the shielding electrode and the guard electrode and (iii) the measurement electrode, the guard electrode and the return electrode; and a processor configured to adjust at least one of the first electrical source and the second electrical source to minimize a current flow through the shielding electrode.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2008Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Matthias Gorek, Martin Folberth, Christian Fulda
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Patent number: 8365822Abstract: A logging tool, system and method for logging a wellbore are presented. The logging tool preferably includes at least two arm sets that are positionable on a downhole tool deployable into the wellbore. The two arm sets preferably include a first arm set, a second arm set, and an overlap tool body. The first arm set has at least two azimuthally spaced first arm systems with a sensor pad coupled to two arms. The two arms have an upper connection and a lower connection on a tool body of the downhole tool. The second arm set has at least two azimuthally spaced second arm systems with a sensor pad coupled to two arms. The two arms have an upper connection and a lower connection on the tool body, and wherein the upper connection of the second arm set are longitudinally overlapped between the lower connections of the first arm set. The overlap tool body portion for coupling the upper connection of the second arm set and the lower connections of the first arm set to the downhole tool.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Gregoire Jacob
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Patent number: 8360146Abstract: The invention is a method for inverting reservoir bi-axial anisotropy and identifying complicated fracture/cross-bedding system (104) by using tri-axial induction logs and wellbore survey/image log data. An inversion method is disclosed that uses all nine components that can be measured by tri-axial induction tools (101), plus borehole azimuth and deviation data, to solve for the tri-axial induction response in an arbitrary anisotropic formation due to the non-orthogonal bedding plane and fracture plane (or cross bedding plane). A mathematical formula is provided relating the conductivity tensor in the tool's reference frame to the conductivity tensor in a reference plane associated with the fracture/cross bedding planes (102). This equation is inverted (103) to yield the conductivity tensor components in the fracture/cross bedding coordinate system, along with dip and azimuth angles for both the fracture/cross bedding planes and the tool.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2008Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventor: Hezhu Yin
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Publication number: 20120298355Abstract: The disclosure includes a system, method, and tool for logging while pulling. The disclosed system includes a tool and a bottom hole assembly, and the tool engages with the bottom hole assembly. The tool includes an elongated body, a retarder positioned on the elongated body, and a locking ring positioned on the elongated body. The retarder has at least one point of contact with an interior surface of a drill pipe. The disclosed method includes assembling the tool, providing a landing ring on a bottom hole assembly, free dropping the tool to the bottom hole assembly, and engaging the landing ring of the bottom hole assembly with the locking ring of the tool so that a portion of the tool extends below the bottom hole assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: Adrian John Digby
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Patent number: 8294592Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for determining an orientation of a wellbore survey tool at a first position with respect to a reference direction. At least one first signal is indicative of an orientation of a directional reference system with respect to the reference direction. The directional reference system is positioned at a second position spaced from the first position. At least one second signal is indicative of a relative orientation of the wellbore survey tool with respect to the directional reference system. The orientation of the wellbore survey tool at the first position is determined in response at least in part to the at least one first signal and the at least one second signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2012Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: GYRODATA, IncorporatedInventors: John Lionel Weston, Eric Wright, Gary Uttecht, Roger Ekseth
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Patent number: 8286710Abstract: A valve assembly (10) comprises a drillpipe (11) defining a hollow, generally cylindrical interior having secured therein a valve member (12) that is moveable between an open position, permitting passage of an object through the valve (10), and a closed position preventing passage of fluids along the drillpipe (11). A resiliently contractile arm (17) interconnects the valve member (12) and the drillpipe (11) so as to urge the valve member (12) towards the closed position and such that when an object passes along the drillpipe (11) and engages the valve member (12) or the arm (17) the valve member (12) occupies the open position.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Reeves Wireline Technologies LimitedInventors: Michael John Chaplin, Simon Christopher Ash