With Disparate Below Ground Feature Patents (Class 166/55.1)
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Publication number: 20040206504Abstract: A system and method for fracturing a hydrocarbon producing formation in which a tool assembly is inserted in a wellbore adjacent the formation, and fracturing fluid is introduced into the annulus between the tool assembly and the wellbore and flows to the formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2002Publication date: October 21, 2004Inventor: Michael J. Rosato
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Publication number: 20040206503Abstract: Disclosed is a casing conveyed perforating system and methods for externally perforating a wellbore and casing. The perforating system is attached to the outside of the casing and is conveyed along with the casing when it is inserted into the wellbore. The perforation may be accomplished using two groups of charges, which are contained in protective pressure chambers, however, may use only one group of bi-directional charges. Each pressure chamber may be positioned radially around the outside of the wellbore casing. The pressure chambers form longitudinally extending ribs, which conveniently serve to center the casing within the wellbore. One group of charges may be aimed inward in order to perforate the casing, while the other group of charges is aimed outward in order to perforate the formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2004Publication date: October 21, 2004Applicant: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Matthew Robert George Bell, Christopher Burres, Aron Ekelund
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Patent number: 6779605Abstract: A safety system controls the activation of one or more downhole tools by providing selective transmission of an activation signal or an energy stream. In a preferred embodiment, transmission of the activation signal or the energy stream is allowed after the tool has passed below a known pre-determined depth. A preferred safety system includes a first device in fixed relationship with the downhole tool and a second device fixed at the stationary location. The first device permits, after reaching the pre-determined depth, either (a) an initiation signal to reach an initiation device associated with a downhole tool upon or (b) the energy stream to reach a downhole tool. The second device positively engages the first device to provide an indication that the specified depth has been reached.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2002Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Owen Oil Tools LPInventor: Cameron Jackson
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Publication number: 20040159434Abstract: An apparatus and method includes positioning a string in a wellbore, the string having a surge chamber. A closure member is provided below the well surface, with the surge chamber defined at least in part by the closure member. At least one port to the chamber is opened to create a fluid surge into the surge chamber and a local low pressure condition in a wellbore region.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2004Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventors: Ashley B. Johnson, Lawrence A. Behrmann, Wenbo Yang, Fokko Harm Cornelis Doornbosch
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Publication number: 20040144539Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for using that apparatus to orient a perforating gun or system to minimize or eliminate the damage which may be caused to exterior control conduits, conductors or devices, or to adjacent interior well control lines, conduits or tubing by attaching the perforating system to a device which has a resilient cam or guide which engages a slot formed on the interior of a specially fabricated tubular member attached at a spaced distance from the perforating systems blast and which is so oriented as to permit the attachment of the lines or conduits or devices in the opposite radial direction from the blast of the perforating system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2004Publication date: July 29, 2004Inventors: David Randolph Smith, Gary O. Harkins
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Publication number: 20040140090Abstract: A shock absorbing tool for use in pipelines and oil wells, particularly in combination with perforation guns comprises a central mass supported on two springs between the end terminal members. The shock wave is absorbed in the free oscillation of the mass. The mass is constituted by a piston assembly. A steel rope permits the shock absorbing tool to be maneuvered within the bore hole without damage to the springs.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventors: Guy Harvey Mason, William Peter Stuart-Bruges, Thomas Lempriere Searight, Ian Hitchcock
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Patent number: 6763883Abstract: A method and apparatus for acoustically actuating wellbore tools using two-way acoustic communication is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Robert R. Green, John W. Harrell
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Publication number: 20040134658Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for externally perforating a well-bore casing. The perforating apparatus is attached to the outside of the casing itself and is conveyed along with the casing when it is inserted into the well bore. The perforation is accomplished using two groups of charges which are contained in protective pressure chambers which are arranged radially around the outside of the wellbore casing. The pressure chambers form longitudinally extending ribs which conveniently serve to center the casing within the well bore. One group of charges is aimed inward in order to perforate the casing. A second group is aimed outward in order to perforate the formation. In an alternative embodiment, only one group of bi-directional charges is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventors: Matthew Robert George Bell, Eugene Murphy, Edward Paul Cernocky, Christopher Burres, Aron Ekelund, Allen Lindfors
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Patent number: 6761219Abstract: A process and apparatus for completing a subterranean well bore in at least one subterranean formation. At least one perforating gun assembly is positioned on the outside of casing in a subterranean well bore. A suitable signal, such as a hydraulic, electric or wave signal, is transported to the perforating gun assembly so as to detonate one or more explosive charges in the perforating gun assembly which are aimed toward the casing. At least one wall in the casing is perforated thereby establishing fluid communication through the wall of the casing. Usually, cement surrounding the casing and a subterranean formation surrounding the casing are also perforated to establish fluid communication between the formation and the interior of the casing.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2002Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Marathon Oil CompanyInventors: Philip M. Snider, Eldon G. Williams, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040129415Abstract: The invention relates to a perforating device comprising one or more perforating gun (1) installed in a perforating body (9), a perforating gun head (2) in the uppermost end of the perforating body (9), a perforating gun base (7) in the lowermost end of the perforating body (9) and a detonating device (3) installed inside or outside the perforating head (2), in which a charge frame (10, 22) is installed inside of the perforating body (9). A plurality of perforator unit connected each other by a detonating cord (15) are provided on the charge frame (10, 22). Every perforator unit comprises an explosive box (11) in a charge socket, a charge (13) in charge housing (12) and energy-bearing media (14). Moreover, an energy-bearing media sleeve (28) is provided outside of the perforating device. The perforating device is easy to manufacture with low cost and can be used securely in the operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Inventors: Zhang Xi, Tinghan Zhang
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Publication number: 20040089451Abstract: A method and apparatus for cutting one or more longitudinal members, external to a downhole tubular conduit, by pulling upward on a cutter body attached to the tubular conduit, where the longitudinal members are run between cutter knives within the cutter body. The cutter knives are attached to one external longitudinal member. After the main tubular conduit is cut below the cutter body, the tubular conduit is pulled, lifting the cutter body, thereby engaging the cutter knives with sloping surfaces on the cutter body to force the knives together, severing the external longitudinal members.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Larry T. Palmer, James S. Trahan
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Patent number: 6732798Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a transient underbalance condition is provided. Transient underbalance can be enhanced by using a porous material, such as a porous solid, around the explosive device. The porous material contains a volume to receive wellbore fluids in response to activation of the explosive device. This causes a local drop in pressure, which enhances the transient underbalance effect. In another application, it is desired to reduce the transient underbalance effect. This is accomplished by reducing the pressure drop generated as a result of explosive detonation. In one arrangement, the shot density is reduced by using solid masses.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ashley B. Johnson, Lawrence A. Behrmann, Wenbo Yang, Fokko Harm Cornelis Doornbosch
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Patent number: 6722424Abstract: A downhole tool hydraulic firing head includes an automatic drain that is opened when the piston is driven to fire. The automatic drain includes a vent opening from the bore and a sleeve disposed within the bore to move axially with the piston. The sleeve is moveable from a position covering the vent opening to a position clear of the vent opening. A locking collet is disposed between the sleeve and the housing, which locks the sleeve into the position, clear of the vent opening, when the sleeve is moved into that position. This locks the sleeve against returning to the position covering the vent opening when it is urged to move in that direction such as, for example, by venturi forces of the evacuating fluid or by pressure generated from the explosive charges. The firing head is useful to detonate downhole explosive charges, such as those in a perforating gun.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Innicor Subsurface Technoloiges, Inc.Inventor: Ross Broad
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Publication number: 20040060734Abstract: This invention relates to the field of oil wells and in particular to the explosive and other devices that are used to perforate oil well casings and hydrocarbon bearing rocks in order to create channels through which oil and gas can flow into the well bore. Existing oil well perforators are either termed “big hole” perforators which are designed to produce large holes in the oil well casing only or “deep hole” perforators which are designed to perforate the casing of the well into the surrounding rocks. This invention proposes a novel “dual action” perforator capable of substantially performing the same functions as both deep hole and big hole perforators.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2003Publication date: April 1, 2004Inventor: Brian Bourne
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Patent number: 6712151Abstract: A method of expanding tubing comprises locating an expansion tool in a section of tubing to be expanded, applying a fluid pressure to the tubing to create a fluid pressure expansion force and induce a hoop stress in the tubing, and applying a mechanical expansion force to the tubing via the expansion tool. The combined fluid pressure expansion force and mechanical expansion force is selected to be sufficient to induce expansion of the tubing.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson, David Michael Haugen
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Patent number: 6708769Abstract: A method and system of forming a lateral wellbore in a time and trip saving manner using a mill/drill to locate and place a casing window. In one aspect of the invention, a lateral wellbore is drilled with liner which is subsequently left in the lateral wellbore to line the sides thereof. In another aspect, the mill/drill is rotated with a rotary steerable system and in another aspect, the mill/drill is rotated with a downhole motor or a drill stem.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David M. Haugen, Frederick T. Tilton
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Patent number: 6708762Abstract: The present invention discloses and claims methods and apparatus for forming an opening or a window in a downhole tubular for the subsequent formation of a lateral wellbore. In one aspect of the invention, a thermite containing apparatus is run into the wellbore on a wire line and a widow is subsequently formed in casing wall. In another aspect of the invention, the apparatus includes a run-in string or drill stem with a drill bit attached to a lower end thereof. A diverter, like a whipstock is attached temporarily to the drill bit with a mechanically shearable connection. At a lower end of the whipstock, a container is formed and connected thereto. The container is designed to house a predetermined amount of exothermic material at one side thereof adjacent the portion of casing where the window or opening will be formed. A telescopic joint extends between the bottom of the container and an anchor therebelow and the telescopic joint is in an extended position when the apparatus is run into a wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2003Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David M. Haugen, Frederick T. Tilton, Neil A. A. Simpson, Kevin L. Gray, Robert Badrak, David J. Brunnert
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Patent number: 6695065Abstract: A method of expanding tubing comprises the steps: providing a length of expandable tubing; locating an expansion tool, such as a cone, in the tubing; and applying impulses to the tool to drive the tool through the tubing and expand the tubing to a larger diameter. The tubing may be located downhole and may have a solid wall or a slotted wall.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson, David H. Grant, Grant Adams
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Patent number: 6684954Abstract: A bi-directional explosive transfer subassembly (56) for coupling two explosive tools (52, 54) comprises first (74, 78) and second (76, 80) explosive carrying members that respectively define first (82, 86) and second (84) explosive cavities. A ball end (102) of the first explosive carrying member (74, 78) is slidingly received in a socket (114) of the second explosive carrying member (76, 80) such that the first (74, 78) and second (76, 80) explosive carrying members are rotatable and angularly displaceable relative to one another. A first explosive device (130) is disposed in the first explosive cavity (82, 86) and a second explosive device (132) is disposed in the second explosive cavity (84). The first (130) and second (132) explosive devices are spaced apart such that when one of the explosive devices (130, 132) is initiated, the other of the explosive devices (130, 132) will in turn be initiated.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Flint R. George
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Patent number: 6679323Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention discloses a system for use with a downhole tool while perforating deviated portions of subterranean wellbores. The system involves a swivel connection attaching subsequent segments of the downhole tool which increases the overall flexibility of the downhole tool. The swivel connection allows sections of the downhole tool to pivot with respect to the next adjacent section.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2001Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignee: Baker Hughes, Inc.Inventors: Kristian Vargervik, Colby W. Ross, Tim W. Sampson
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Patent number: 6675893Abstract: A single placement well completion system wherein a perforating gun is vertically positioned alongside a filter in a cased subterranean well. The position of the filter and perforating gun remains fixed relative to the casing during perforating, fracturing and/or packing, and production of the well.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: ConocoPhillips CompanyInventor: Hans-Jacob Lund
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Publication number: 20030230406Abstract: A single placement well completion system wherein a perforating gun is vertically positioned alongside a filter in a cased subterranean well. The position of the filter and perforating gun remains fixed relative to the casing during perforating, fracturing and/or packing, and production of the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2002Publication date: December 18, 2003Inventor: Hans-Jacob Lund
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Publication number: 20030213595Abstract: A safety system controls the activation of one or more downhole tools by providing selective transmission of an activation signal or an energy stream. In a preferred embodiment, transmission of the activation signal or the energy stream is allowed after the tool has passed below a known pre-determined depth. A preferred safety system includes a first device in fixed relationship with the downhole tool and a second device fixed at the stationary location. The first device permits, after reaching the pre-determined depth, either (a) an initiation signal to reach an initiation device associated with a downhole tool upon or (b) the energy stream to reach a downhole tool. The second device positively engages the first device to provide an indication that the specified depth has been reached.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2002Publication date: November 20, 2003Applicant: Owen Oil Tools LP.Inventor: Cameron Jackson
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Publication number: 20030213599Abstract: A method of anchoring a whipstock on the mill or drill body using an anchor extendible to engage an eyelet formed or provided on the whipstock to run in a mill and whipstock in one trip. The anchor is retractable into the body of the drill so that the drill can pass by the whipstock during lateral drilling and out the casing wall without interference. The anchor preferably is extended and retracted by hydraulic force controlled remotely by the operator. The anchor is preferably shaped to match and conform to the outer wall of the drill so that in the closed position, the anchor is contiguous with and does not extend beyond the outer diameter of the drill body. Part of the drill body is preferably removed to allow the anchor to nest within the space provided by the removal of the drill body.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2003Publication date: November 20, 2003Inventor: Donald W. Tinker
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Patent number: 6637507Abstract: The invention relates to a process for continuously perforating in a wellbore comprising the following steps of determining a location to be perforated in the wellbore proximate an oil formation; placing an apparatus comprising a plurality of charges to said location in the wellbore; and continuously conducting perforation at said location with said charges in the apparatus. The invention also provides an apparatus for specifically performing the process, which comprises a transmitting system, a positioning system and a controlling system. The process and the apparatus can be used in a poor condition of the formation.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Beijing Jinsuodao Investment and Consulting Co., Ltd.Inventor: Xueyi Cong
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Publication number: 20030196806Abstract: The present invention provides for a perforating gun having stackable sections that latch, enabling the gun string to carry both compressive and tensile loads. This allows for the downhole assembly of guns of any desired length, and for the entire gun string to be removed after firing.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2003Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventors: Joe C. Hromas, Mark Vella
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Publication number: 20030192696Abstract: A well completion procedure and apparatus comprises a first assembly that includes production tubing combined with a production packer and an internal bore latching profile. A second assembly comprises an explosive perforating gun secured to a latching mechanism. The perforating gun and latching mechanism are dimensioned to freely traverse the flow bore of the production tubing for downhole retrieval and return after the packer is set. The latching mechanism may be released by discharge of the gun.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: William D. Myers, Colby W. Ross
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Publication number: 20030183388Abstract: A one-trip through tubing window milling system is disclosed. The whipstock is delivered with the mill and downhole motor in a downhole assembly which further includes MWD equipment for proper whipstock orientation. The entire assembly is run through tubing and the MWD equipment orients the whipstock. A motor lock prevents the downhole motor from turning as fluid pressure is applied to properly anchor the whipstock below the production tubing. The motor lock is defeated and the milling commenced using the downhole motor. At the conclusion of the window milling, the bottom hole assembly, including the mill, is removed and a retrieving tool releases the whipstock for retrieval through the production tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: Jeffrey E. Toulouse, Malcolm D. Pitman
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Publication number: 20030141063Abstract: The present invention discloses and claims methods and apparatus for forming an opening or a window in a downhole tubular for the subsequent formation of a lateral wellbore. In one aspect of the invention, a thermite containing apparatus is run into the wellbore on a wire line and a widow is subsequently formed in casing wall. In another aspect of the invention, the apparatus includes a run-in string or drill stem with a drill bit attached to a lower end thereof. A diverter, like a whipstock is attached temporarily to the drill bit with a mechanically shearable connection. At a lower end of the whipstock, a container is formed and connected thereto. The container is designed to house a predetermined amount of exothermic material at one side thereof adjacent the portion of casing where the window or opening will be formed. A telescopic joint extends between the bottom of the container and an anchor therebelow and the telescopic joint is in an extended position when the apparatus is run into a wellbore.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2003Publication date: July 31, 2003Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David M. Haugen, Frederick T. Tilton, Neil A.A. Simpson, Kevin L. Gray, Robert Badrak, David J. Brunnert
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Patent number: 6598682Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving reservoir communication includes, in one arrangement, use of one or more chambers to create an underbalance condition and/or a fluid surge in the wellbore. In another arrangement, a tool string comprises a packer, a circulating valve, and an atmospheric chamber, in which the circulating valve, when open, is adapted to vent a lower wellbore region below the packer when the packer is set, and the atmospheric chamber is capable of being operated to create an underbalance condition below the packer. In yet another arrangement, an apparatus comprises a subsea wellhead equipment including a blow-out preventer, choke line filled with a low density fluid, and a kill line filled with a heavy fluid. The choke line is adapted to be opened to create an underbalance condition in the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.Inventors: Ashley B. Johnson, James E. Brooks, Lawrence A. Behrmann, Adinathan Venkitaraman, Ian Walton, Anthony P. Vovers, Vladimir Vaynshteyn, Dinesh R. Patel, Michael W. Fruge
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Patent number: 6595289Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for plugging a wellbore in a trip saving manner. In one aspect, the invention includes a cement retainer disposed on a run-in string and a radially expanded perforating assembly disposed below the cement retainer. In a single run, the apparatus provides for perforating a wellbore and squeezing cement through the perforations and into the formation therearound. In another aspect, a method of plugging the wellbore includes running a cement retainer and a radially expanded perforating assembly into a wellbore on a run-in string. After the cement retainer is set, a firing head is actuated to cause the perforating gun to discharge. After perforations are formed, cement is introduced from the cement retainer into the isolated area and squeezed through the perforations. Thereafter, the run-in string disengages from the cement retainer leaving behind the plug formed.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David Moore Tumlin, Gene K. Fugatt, Sr., David Hosie, Mike Luke
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Patent number: 6595290Abstract: An internally oriented perforating apparatus and associated method of perforating provide increased reliability in orienting perforating charges to shoot in desired directions in a well. In a described example, a perforating gun includes a tubular gun carrier, multiple perforating charges, multiple charge mounting structures and multiple rotating supports. The rotating supports are attached between the charge mounting structures, or at least between the perforating charges.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Flint R. George, Melissa G. Allin
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Patent number: 6591912Abstract: A perforation gun is secured to the inside bore of a well completion tube by a releasable connection module. The connection module mechanism includes radially expanding anchor dogs that are retained at an expanded position by a latching mechanism that may be released, alternatively, by combustion gas or by wireline. When the perforation gun is discharged, gas from the discharge combustion displaces a retaining piston. Displacement of the retaining piston releases a latch pin and allows the gun weight to shift a secondary release sleeve. Shift of the secondary release sleeve releases a latch dog retention pin and hence, releases the anchor dogs from a meshed connection with the completion tube. The secondary release sleeve may also be shifted by the upward pull of a wireline.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Colby W. Ross, William D. Myers
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Publication number: 20030116353Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention discloses a shot indication device that indicates the orientation of a downhole tool that is inside of a wellbore at a particular time. The shot indication device can also be used to determine the orientation of a perforating gun with shaped charges at the instant the shaped charges are detonated. The shot indication device is comprised of an indicator housing secured within the downhole tool. Formed within the indicator housing is an annulus whose axis is parallel to the axis of the downhole tool. Disposed inside of the annulus is an indicator element that freely moves about the circumference of the annulus.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2001Publication date: June 26, 2003Applicant: BAKER HUGHES, INCORPORATEDInventors: Morten Iversen, Kenneth Latveit, Knut Henriksen, Kristian Vargervik, Tim Sampson
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Patent number: 6581690Abstract: The present invention provides an active downhole cutting tool guide device 14 for use in a hole 17 with sides between which a hole-cutting tool 15 mounted on a drill string and provided with said device may be disposed. The guide device 14 comprises at least one elongate longitudinally extending hole-side engagement member 20 mounted on a body 19 disposable, in use of the device, in-line with the drill string, so as to be movable relative to said body 19 between a retracted position and a radially outwardly displaced position for hole-side engagement. Each engagement member 20 has pressurized-fluid operable actuator mechanism 24 formed and arranged for driving said hole-side engagement member 20 between its retracted and hole-side engagement positions. The guide device 14 includes pressurized fluid supply mechanism 28, 18 formed and arranged for controlling the supply of pressurized fluid to the actuator mechanism 24, for operation thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Rotech Holdings, LimitedInventors: Hector F. A. Van Drentham-Susman, Kenneth Roderick Stewart
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Publication number: 20030102122Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention discloses a system for use with a downhole tool while perforating deviated portions of subterranean wellbores. The system involves a swivel connection attaching subsequent segments of the downhole tool which increases the overall flexibility of the downhole tool. The swivel connection allows sections of the downhole tool to pivot with respect to the next adjacent section.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2001Publication date: June 5, 2003Applicant: BAKER HUGHES, INCORPORATEDInventors: Kristian Vargervik, Colby W. Ross, Tim W. Sampson
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Publication number: 20030098157Abstract: A perforating gun assembly for use in a subterranean well incorporates therein an electromagnetic frequency receiver coupled to a motor section which, in turn, is coupled to the mechanically actuatable firing head portion of the perforating gun. The assembly is lowered into a cased wellbore to a subterranean formation location, and a surface-disposed transmitter generates encoded electromagnetic waves through the earth to the receiver. Upon sensing in the received waves a predetermined frequency and embedded firing code, the receiver electrically operates the motor which, in turn, mechanically actuates the firing head to initiate the firing of the perforating gun. While the assembly is illustratively lowered into the wellbore on a tubing structure, a variety of non-tubing structures may be alternatively utilized to lower the gun assembly into the wellbore and operatively support it therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2001Publication date: May 29, 2003Inventors: John H. Hales, Brian R. Duea, Rebecca A. McConnell
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Patent number: 6568474Abstract: A method of perforating and gravel packing a wellbore casing, having the following steps: (1) making-up to a pipe string: a packer, a screen, and a perforating apparatus; (2) running-in the pipe string until the perforating apparatus is at a depth of intended perforations; (3) setting the perforating apparatus in the wellbore casing at a depth of intended perforations; and (4) disconnecting the screen and perforating apparatus from the pipe string. A system for perforating and gravel packing a wellbore casing, having: a packer which is mechanically communicable with a service string: a screen in mechanical communication with the packer; a perforating apparatus in mechanical communication with the screen, wherein the screen and perforating apparatus are detachable from the packer; and a tool having at least one casing engaging slip segment, wherein the tool is matable with the perforating apparatus, and wherein the tool is settable in the wellbore casing.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: BJ Services, USAInventors: Kevin R. George, Stanley Wall, Marvin Bryce Traweek, Barry Ed Smith, David Joseph Walker, David A. Hebert
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Patent number: 6564868Abstract: A fluid cutting tool and method for perforating or severing tubular members from inside. The tool is especially suited for use with a rotational drive system, such as a downhole motor, to separate downhole structures, such as stuck production tubing. The cutting tool preferably takes the form of an elongate metal body with an open first end connectable to the end of a downhole motor. The downhole end of the tool may be conical. A fluid conduit within the body of the tool communicates with the fluid channel in the downhole motor. Ports in the sides of the tool body direct jets of cutting fluid out the side of the tool. The tool attached to the motor is fed downhole until the tool is at the desired location in the well. Then the motor is operated to rotate the tool while cutting fluid is pumped through it. This causes the jets of fluid to be directed at the inner surface of the production tubing (or other tubular structure). This process is continued until the tubing is perforated or severed, as needed.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2000Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Cudd Pressure Control, Inc.Inventors: Andrew M. Ferguson, Bryan F. McKinley, Mark S. Britton, Charles C. Overstreet
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Patent number: 6557636Abstract: A method and apparatus for perforating tubular members coaxial outside and inside surfaces with a continuous wall extending therebetween attaches at least one explosive charge in direct contact with the wall of the tubular with at least one detonation device in communication with the explosive device. A control station in wireless and cableless communication with the at least one detonation device selects from radio waves, infrared waves, acoustic waves, optical light waves, seismic waves, and combinations thereof to activate the at least one detonation device.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Edward Paul Cernocky, Allen J. Lindfors
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Patent number: 6554081Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided to reduce interference resulting from activation of explosive devices. One type of interference is charge-to-charge interference, and another type of interference is pre-shock interference between a detonating cord and an explosive, such as a shaped charge. To reduce interference, one or more shock impeding elements are placed proximal one or more explosives to impede propagation of shock caused by detonation of the explosives. The shock impeding elements include a porous material, such as a porous liquid or solid. In another arrangement, a shock barrier may be positioned between a detonating cord and an explosive to reduce pre-shock interference. In yet another feature, an encapsulant may be provided around one or more shaped charges to enhance structural support for the shaped charges.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: James E. Brooks, Wenbo Yang, Brenden M. Grove, Ian C. Walton, Manish Kothari, Lawrence A. Behrmann, Alfredo Fayard, Daniel C. Markel, Wallace E. Voreck
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Publication number: 20030075325Abstract: An apparatus and method for progressively treating an interval of a wellbore (32) is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sand control screen (138) that is eccentrically positioned within the wellbore (32) and a fluid delivery tubular (140) that is disposed within the wellbore (32) adjacent to the sand control screen (138). During a treatment process when a treatment fluid is pumped into the fluid delivery tubular (140), the fluid delivery tubular (140) progressively allows the treatment fluid to exit from the interior of the fluid delivery tubular (140) to the exterior of the fluid delivery tubular (140) from a first end (46) of the interval (48) to a second end (44) of the interval (48) to progressively treat the interval (48) of the wellbore (32).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2001Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventors: Ronald G. Dusterhoft, Syed Hamid, Roger L. Schultz, Robert Ken Michael
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Publication number: 20030075317Abstract: A bi-directional explosive transfer subassembly (56) for coupling two explosive tools (52, 54) comprises first (74, 78) and second (76, 80) explosive carrying members that respectively define first (82, 86) and second (84) explosive cavities. A ball end (102) of the first explosive carrying member (74, 78) is slidingly received in a socket (114) of the second explosive carrying member (76, 80) such that the first (74, 78) and second (76, 80) explosive carrying members are rotatable and angularly displaceable relative to one another. A first explosive device (130) is disposed in the first explosive cavity (82, 86) and a second explosive device (132) is disposed in the second explosive cavity (84). The first (130) and second (132) explosive devices are spaced apart such that when one of the explosive devices (130, 132) is initiated, the other of the explosive devices (130, 132) will in turn be initiated.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2001Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventor: Flint R. George
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Publication number: 20030075316Abstract: A perforator apparatus for repeated punching of holes at a multiple of selected locations in tubing of a well bore. The apparatus is activated for repeated punching operations by a fluid control valve mechanism that controls opposed directional movement of a piston connected to a punch of the perforator apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2001Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventors: Brent Marsh, Robert Parker, Timothy David Pollock
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Publication number: 20030070811Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for perforating a subterranean formation so as to establish fluid communication between the formation and a wellbore, the wellbore having casing cemented therein, the casing having a cement sheath therearound. The casing is perforated with a mechanical perforator and thereafter a propellant material is ignited within the casing thereby perforating the cement sheath. The formation may thereafter be stimulated with an acid stimulator. The mechanical perforator may include use of a toothed wheel, or a needle-punch perforator. The propellant may be deployed in a sleeve and may comprise an abrasive material.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2001Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventors: Clark E. Robison, Robert C. Pahmiyer, Paul D. Ringgenberg
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Publication number: 20030062153Abstract: A downhole tool hydraulic firing head includes an automatic drain that is opened when the piston is driven to fire. The automatic drain includes a vent opening from the bore and a sleeve disposed within the bore to move axially with the piston. The sleeve is moveable from a position covering the vent opening to a position clear of the vent opening. A locking collet is disposed between the sleeve and the housing, which locks the sleeve into the position, clear of the vent opening, when the sleeve is moved into that position. This locks the sleeve against returning to the position covering the vent opening when it is urged to move in that direction such as, for example, by venturi forces of the evacuating fluid or by pressure generated from the explosive charges. The firing head is useful to detonate downhole explosive charges, such as those in a perforating gun.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2001Publication date: April 3, 2003Applicant: INNICOR SUBSURFACE TECHNOLOGIES INC.Inventor: Ross Broad
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Publication number: 20030056953Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for plugging a wellbore in a trip saving manner. In one aspect, the invention includes a cement retainer disposed on a run-in string and a radially expanded perforating assembly disposed below the cement retainer. In a single run, the apparatus provides for perforating a wellbore and squeezing cement through the perforations and into the formation therearound. In another aspect, a method of plugging the wellbore includes running a cement retainer and a radially expanded perforating assembly into a wellbore on a run-in string. After the cement retainer is set, a firing head is actuated to cause the perforating gun to discharge. After perforations are formed, cement is introduced from the cement retainer into the isolated area and squeezed through the perforations. Thereafter, the run-in string disengages from the cement retainer leaving behind the plug formed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2002Publication date: March 27, 2003Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David Moore Tumlin, Gene K. Fugatt, David Hosie, Mike Luke
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Patent number: 6536525Abstract: The present invention discloses and claims methods and apparatus for forming an opening or a window in a downhole tubular for the subsequent formation of a lateral wellbore. In one aspect of the invention, a thermite containing apparatus is run into the wellbore on a wire line and a widow is subsequently formed in casing wall. In another aspect of the invention, the apparatus includes a run-in string or drill stem with a drill bit attached to a lower end thereof. A diverter, like a whipstock is attached temporarily to the drill bit with a mechanically shearable connection. At a lower end of the whipstock, a container is formed and connected thereto. The container is designed to house a predetermined amount of exothermic material at one side thereof adjacent the portion of casing where the window or opening will be formed. A telescopic joint extends between the bottom of the container and an anchor therebelow and the telescopic joint is in an extended position when the apparatus is run into a wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2000Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David M. Haugen, Frederick T. Tilton, Neil A. A. Simpson, Kevin L. Gray, Robert Badrak, David J. Brunnert
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Publication number: 20030051876Abstract: The invention discloses methods of, as well as apparatus and systems for, perforating and treating multiple intervals of one or more subterranean formations intersected by a wellbore by deploying within said wellbore a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) having a perforating device, a sealing mechanism and at least one pressure equalization means that establishes pressure communication between the portions of the wellbore above and below the sealing mechanism. The BHA is positioned within the wellbore such that the sealing mechanism, when actuated, establishes a hydraulic seal in the wellbore to positively force fluid to enter the perforations corresponding to the interval to be treated. A treating fluid is pumped down the wellbore and into the perforations created in the perforated interval. The sealing mechanism is released, and the steps are repeated for as many intervals as desired, without having to remove the BHA from said wellbore.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2002Publication date: March 20, 2003Inventors: Randy C. Tolman, Lawrence O. Carlson, David A. Kinison, Kris J. Nygaard, Glenn S. Goss, William A. Sorem, Lee L. Shafer
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Patent number: 6533040Abstract: A multi-function apparatus designated as a “Liner Stub Assembly”, run in and set in an existing cased well at the end of a work pipe string is used to add a liner-equipped branch well to an existing cased well in a way which provides full access to both wells. Pre-fabricated mobile straight tubular connectors (Liner Stubs) are installed and sealed by on-board explosive means which accurately cut a window of pre-determined shape and dimensions in the existing well casing and weld to it the Liner Stub's stop collar to make downhole a leak-proof tubular junction of the two wells, by means of such short connectors.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2000Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Inventor: Michael Gondouin