Magnetic Patents (Class 166/66.5)
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Patent number: 7032670Abstract: A method of winning oil from a source via a bored well, wherein a magnetorheological fluid is introduced into the source via the bored well to reduce the water content of the oil won. Oil drilling is resumed in the presence of a magnetic field, thereby increasing the oil yield and/or decreasing the water content of the drilled oil.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2004Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Technische Universiteit DelftInventor: Pacelli Lidio Jose Zitha
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Patent number: 7021406Abstract: A method of drilling a bore hole into a stratum, wherein via the drill hole drilling fluid is introduced and fed to the drill head. In order to avoid dilution or leak-off of the drilling fluid the same is in accordance with the invention a magnetorheological drilling fluid, and when an undesirable pressure difference occurs between the drilling fluid at the height of the drill head and a fluid present in the stratum surrounding the drill head, a magnetic field is applied. The inventions also provide a permanent solution.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2004Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: Technische Universiteit DelftInventor: Pacelli Lidio Jose Zitha
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Patent number: 7012545Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring a well. In a described embodiment, the method uses annulus pressure to communicate between a downhole system and a remote location. The method may use intermittent electrical power generated by changes in annulus pressure to power the downhole system. Various sensors and well tools may be monitored and actuated by the downhole system, and acquired data may be transmitted to the remote location.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2002Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Neal G. Skinner, Michael L. Fripp, Roger L. Schultz
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Patent number: 6991045Abstract: A method for forming one or more openings in a hydrocarbon containing formation is described. The method may include forming or providing a first opening in the formation. A plurality of magnets may be provided into the first opening. The plurality of magnets may be positioned along a portion of the first opening. The plurality of magnets may produce a series of magnetic fields along the portion of the first opening. A second opening in the formation may be formed using magnetic tracking of the series of magnetic fields. The second opening may be spaced a desired distance from the first opening. Alternate embodiments include use of an energized conduit to create a magnetic field. Such energized conduit can be used alone or with the plurality of magnets.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Christopher Kelvin Harris, Robin Adrianus Hartmann, Christopher Arnold Pratt, Gordon Bruce Lepper, Randolph Rogers Wagner
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Patent number: 6988556Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for actuation of downhole tools. In one example, a deep set safety valve uses a magnetic coupling which permits a portion of the safety valve at control line pressure to be isolated from tubing string internal pressure, without requiring the use of a dynamic seal therebetween. A piston of the safety valve may be displaced in response to a differential between control line pressure and pressure in an annulus surrounding the tubing string, pressure in another control line, or pressure in the tubing string. Other types of well tools may benefit from actuation using principles of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2002Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: James D. Vick, Jr.
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Patent number: 6926089Abstract: Downhole wellbore tools are actuated by electrically controllable fluids energized by a magnetic field, for example. When energized, the viscosity state of the fluid may be increased by a degree depending on the fluid formulation. Reduction of the controllable fluid viscosity by terminating a magnetic field acting upon the fluid may permit in situ wellbore pressure to actuate a downhole device, such as a wellbore packer.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: James Edward Goodson, Jr., Michael Carmody
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Patent number: 6899174Abstract: An instrument insert for a tool of the type comprising an inner member extending within an outer member, the inner and outer members being capable of relative longitudinal movement. The insert includes a first insert portion comprising a first instrument component of an instrument, a second insert portion comprising a second instrument component of the instrument and a coupling mechanism for connecting the first and second insert portions and for maintaining the first and second insert portions in a fixed relative longitudinal position. Further, the first and second insert portions are each adapted to be connected with one of the inner and outer members and the insert is adapted for mounting within the tool at a radial position between the inner and outer members such that the insert is capable of longitudinal movement relative to at least one of the inner and outer members.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Terrance Dean Maxwell, John Ransford Hardin, Jr.
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Patent number: 6866306Abstract: A first flux-loop inductive coupler element electrically couples with a second flux-loop inductive coupler element. The first flux-loop inductive coupler element comprises a first ring-like core having high magnetic permeability and a conical-section annular first face transverse to the plane of the first core. The first face has a first annular groove separating a first conical-section larger-diameter face and a first conical-section smaller-diameter face. A first coil is wound within the annular groove. The first and second cores form a low-reluctance closed magnetic path around the first coil and a second coil of the second flux-loop inductive coupler element. A first current-loop inductive coupler element electrically couples with a second current-loop inductive coupler element.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2001Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Bruce W. Boyle, Raghu Madhavan, Jacques Jundt
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Patent number: 6863124Abstract: The present invention provides a submersible motor and pump system for use in a wellbore. More specifically, the present invention provides a submersible system having a sealed motor and a magnetic coupling to transmit torque from the sealed motor to the pump.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Grigory L. Araux, Steven E. Buchanan
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Patent number: 6852235Abstract: A method and apparatus provide fluid treatment at a plurality of distinct points using a length of energized magnetically conductive conduit in fluid communication with non-magnetic coupling devices. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Inventor: Herbert W. Holland
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Patent number: 6848503Abstract: A power generating system (100) for a downhole operation (10) having production tubing (40) in a wellbore (12) includes a magnetized rotation member (110) coupled to the wellbore (12) within the production tubing (40), the rotation member (110) having a passageway (112) through which objects, such as tools, may be passed within the production tubing (40). Support braces (170, 172) couple the rotation member (110) to the production tubing (40) and allow the rotation member (110) to rotate within the production tubing (40). Magnetic pickups (150, 152) are predisposed about the rotation member (110) within the wellbore (12) and a power conditioner (200) is provided to receive currents from the magnetic pickups (150, 152) for storage and future use.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Fripp, Brock W. Watson
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Patent number: 6843318Abstract: A method and system for activating a device at a particular orientation in a casing are disclosed. The casing has a bias, for example a lower side due to tilt, that defines a default angle in the casing, for example a point along a wall of the casing where objects will rest due to gravity. The method includes providing a magnetic sensor at a known angle in the device relative to the angle at which a device function occurs. For example, the angle at which a perforating gun perforates the casing is a device function angle. The method further includes lowering the device into the casing. The method further includes determining the offset of the device from the casing at the known angular position from an output of the magnet sensor. The device can then be activated.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Gregory S. Yarbro
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Patent number: 6817415Abstract: A method of sealing an annulus surrounding a slotted liner in a well includes the steps of generating a magnetic field in the annulus in a region to be sealed; and injecting into the region a sealing fluid including magnetic particles such that the fluid is confined to fill the annulus in the region to be sealed by the interaction of the magnetic particles and the magnetic field.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jacques Orban, Claude Vercaemer, Erik Nelson, Dominique Guillot
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Publication number: 20040206492Abstract: A borehole device having proximal and distal ends comprises an enclosure at the proximal end for accepting an aircraft cable containing a plurality of insulated conductors from a remote position. A water sensing enclosure is sealingly attached to the enclosure and contains means for detecting water, and sending a signal on the cable to the remote position indicating water has been detected. A bottom sensing enclosure is sealingly attached to the water sensing enclosure for determining when the borehole device encounters borehole bottom and sends a signal on the cable to the remote position indicating that borehole bottom has been encountered.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2003Publication date: October 21, 2004Inventors: Joseph C. Skalski, Michael D. Henke
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Publication number: 20040194951Abstract: An instrument insert for a tool of the type comprising an inner member extending within an outer member, the inner and outer members being capable of relative longitudinal movement. The insert includes a first insert portion comprising a first instrument component of an instrument, a second insert portion comprising a second instrument component of the instrument and a coupling mechanism for connecting the first and second insert portions and for maintaining the first and second insert portions in a fixed relative longitudinal position. Further, the first and second insert portions are each adapted to be connected with one of the inner and outer members and the insert is adapted for mounting within the tool at a radial position between the inner and outer members such that the insert is capable of longitudinal movement relative to at least one of the inner and outer members.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Terrance Dean Maxwell, John Ransford Hardin
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Patent number: 6762601Abstract: Detector circuitry for detecting magnetic field disturbances resulting from the movement of equipment through a pipe of magnetic material, the detector circuitry comprising a difference circuit fed with the outputs of two longitudinally spaced sensor means via respective DC blocking means, a saturating difference amplifier feeding an integrator and fed with the outputs of the difference circuit and the integrator, and indicating means fed from the integrator. The detector circuitry may also including level setting means and a comparator fed with the outputs of the integrator and the level setting means and feeding the indicating means. A second comparator may be connected in parallel with the first comparator and fed with the inverse of the output of the level setting means and the output of the integrator.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Antech LimitedInventors: Antoni Miszewski, Simon Duckett
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Patent number: 6736222Abstract: Apparatus and Methods are disclosed for determining the direction between a rotating magnetic field and alternating magnetic field sensors at a remote location. The curvature of a borehole drilling assembly between a rotating drill bit carrying a permanent magnet and sensors behind a drilling motor is measured to provide early indication of changes in drilling direction. A second application concerns measurement of the convergence and divergence and the skewness of two approximately parallel well bores to provide information for correcting the drilling direction to maintain parallelism. A third application measures the direction and distance to a point target to provide data for guiding drilling toward that target. The primary apparatus are an oriented, rotating permanent magnet and an oriented, three component alternating magnetic field sensor.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: Vector Magnetics, LLCInventors: Arthur F. Kuckes, Rahn G. Pitzer, Anthony G. Nekut
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Patent number: 6733668Abstract: An apparatus for magnetically treating fluids produced from a hydrocarbon well includes a hydrocarbon section and a reactor section. The hydrocarbon section is designed to treat crude oil to inhibit the deposition of paraffins, asphaltines, and the like. The reactor section is designed to treat aqueous fluids to inhibit the deposition of mineral scale, and in particular the deposition of barium sulfate. The magnets in the two sections are arranged in a linear, co-axial relationship. Radial focusing magnets provided in the reactor section distort the magnetic field and inhibit dissolved minerals from forming scale on the production tubing. The apparatus is effective at preventing fouling by barium sulfate deposition.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Omni-Tech 2000 Inc.Inventors: Dwight Pedersen, Clark Humphreys
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Publication number: 20040084184Abstract: A method of sealing an annulus surrounding a slotted liner in a well includes the steps of generating a magnetic field in the annulus in a region to be sealed; and injecting into the region a sealing fluid including magnetic particles such that the fluid is confined to fill the annulus in the region to be sealed by the interaction of the magnetic particles and the magnetic field.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Jacques Orban, Claude Vercaemer, Erik Nelson, Dominique Guillot
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Patent number: 6720764Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting ferrous changes passing axially through a cylindrical space. In one embodiment, the method comprises surrounding the cylindrical space with a nonmagnetic cylinder having an outer wall and a cylindrical axis; creating an alternating magnetic field in the cylindrical space, the magnetic field created by a rotatable permanent magnet; monitoring the magnetic field with magnetic flux sensors placed outside the outer walls; and detecting changes in the magnetic field as ferrous matter passes axially through the cylindrical space. In other embodiments, the apparatus identifies ferrous changes as the tool joints that connect a jointed tubing string as the tubing string is moved in or out of a well bore, or as the presence or absence of a coiled tubing string in the well bore.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Thomas Energy Services Inc.Inventors: Mahendran S. Relton, John S. Burrington, Jason P. MacInnis, Jonathan J. Falcon
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Patent number: 6698516Abstract: In the method of providing for well tubular member magnetization, the steps include providing a magnetizing structure comprising an electrical coil defining an axis, relatively displacing the member and the structure, with the coil positioned and guided in close, centered proximity to the member, while supplying electric current to flow in the coil, thereby creating magnetic flux passage through the member and core to magnetize the member, or a part of the member, and displacing the member in a wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Scientific Drilling InternationalInventors: Donald H. Van Steenwyk, James N. Towle
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Publication number: 20040020635Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for locating joints in coiled tubing operations. The apparatus is adapted for running into a well on coiled tubing and for use during reverse circulating and fracturing operations. The apparatus having a central passageway for fluids, a collar locator module, a one-way valve coupled to the central passageway to allow for the flow of fluids in one direction but not the other, a port coupled to the central passageway to allow fluids to exit when the one-way valve is functioning, a movable cover module to cover the port to build up pressure in the central passageway, and a flow diverting module for permanently diverting the flow of fluids from the port to the central passageway.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Robert G. Howard, James C. Tucker, Douglas N. Love
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Patent number: 6681849Abstract: Sealing elements for well packers and bridgeplugs may be constructed with magnetorheological elastomers or foams disposed about electromagnet windings set in an internal mandrel. The elastomer or foam stiffness properties are formulated for a low setting force compliance in the absence of a magnetic field. After deployment, the tool winding is energized to engage the magnetic field and raise the stiffness properties of the elastomer or foam. When the magnetic field is activated, the packer or bridgeplug has greater structural resistance to unwanted pressure displacement. When the field is de-energized, the sealing element relaxes to permit resetting or removal.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2001Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: James Edward Goodson, Jr.
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Patent number: 6672409Abstract: A generator assembly for generating power in the downhole end of a drill string used to form a borehole in horizontal directional drilling. The drill string provides a fluid passageway in which the downhole generator is receivingly disposed, at least in part, to subject a rotatable turbine to a pressurized fluid flowing in the fluid passageway, thereby imparting a mechanical rotation to the turbine. The turbine is coupled to a generator so that the mechanical rotation of the turbine is transferred to a power output of the generator.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.Inventors: Matthew L. Dock, Brent G. Stephenson
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Patent number: 6655462Abstract: Apparatus which can collect loose debris, particularly ferrous debris, has a body 2 with upper 3 and lower 4 stabiliser sleeve. The body 2 has a one or more integral magnets or magnetic areas 5. In one embodiment the magnets are located in a first and second row on a split sleeve 6 and are covered by a protective stainless steel sleeve7. The apparatus may alternatively comprise magnetic scraper blades or a magnetic sub. The magnets are selectively activated. There is also described a method of trapping or retaining debris in a well bore.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2000Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: SPS-AFOS International LimitedInventors: Mark Carmichael, Paul Howlett
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Publication number: 20030192687Abstract: Downhole wellbore tools are actuated by electrically controllable fluids energized by a magnetic field for example. When energized, the viscosity state of the fluid may be increased by a degree depending on the fluid formulation. Reduction of the controllable fluid viscosity by terminating a magnetic field acting upon the fluid may permit in situ wellbore pressure to displace a tool actuating piston. Displacement of the tool actuating piston is prevented by the controllable fluid in a viscous state. The viscous state of the fluid is energized by a magnetic field environment. When the field is de-energized, the controllable fluid viscosity quickly falls thereby permitting the fluid to flow through an open orifice into a low pressure receiving volume. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, an expandable volume fluid may be used against a slip actuating element in the same manner as a fluid pressure motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: James Edward Goodson, Michael Carmody
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Patent number: 6629562Abstract: The invention is a system for retrieving loose metallic debris, such as stray radioactive marker bullets, from a borehole in a subterranean formation. The system can be used to retrieve stray radioactive marker bullets during placement of the radioactive marker bullets in the subterranean formation. The system utilizes a downhole fishing tool having at least one recessed magnetic surface for attracting and holding stray radioactive marker bullets. The recessed magnetic surface allows the fishing tool to be removed from the borehole without scraping off retrieved marker bullets that are held against the magnetic surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2002Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Assignee: ConocoPhillips CompanyInventor: Mehmet Fidan
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Publication number: 20030179651Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for sensing subsurface data. One embodiment of the invention comprises a shuttle attached to a conveyance where the conveyance and shuttle are adapted to be spooled downhole into a borehole for sensing seismic data. The shuttle contains a sensor package that is preferably acoustically isolated in the shuttle. The sensor package includes a sensor array and a magnet clamp. A sensor section can contain several shuttles, each shuttle containing at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the sensor can be a fiber optic sensor. The magnet clamp is operable to controllably clamp and acoustically couple together the sensor package, the shuttle, and the adjacent structure which is typically the borehole casing. The magnet clamp is likewise operable to unclamp and uncouple the shuttle from the adjacent structure so as to be retracted uphole for subsequent use.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2002Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventors: Les Nutt, Tsutomu Yamate, Masahiro Kamata
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Publication number: 20030173072Abstract: A method for forming one or more openings in a hydrocarbon containing formation is described. The method may include forming or providing a first opening in the formation. A plurality of magnets may be provided into the first opening. The plurality of magnets may be positioned along a portion of the first opening. The plurality of magnets may produce a series of magnetic fields along the portion of the first opening. A second opening in the formation may be formed using magnetic tracking of the series of magnetic fields. The second opening may be spaced a desired distance from the first opening. Alternate embodiments include use of an energized conduit to create a magnetic field. Such energized conduit can be used alone or with the plurality of magnets.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2002Publication date: September 18, 2003Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Christopher Kelvin Harris, Robin Adrianus Hartmann, Christopher Arnold Pratt, Gordon Bruce Lepper, Randolph Rogers Wagner
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Patent number: 6616837Abstract: An apparatus for optimizing the rheological properties of a viscous fluid is particularly designed to reduce the viscosity of the fluid so that it may be more readily transported from a subsurface reservoir to the surface. The apparatus includes housing having a first through bore defining a cross-sectional flow area and longitudinal flow path for fluid through the bore. The housing has an inlet end and an outlet end and is designed for connection in a flow path from a subsurface reservoir. A flow restriction device is adjustably mounted in the through bore to define a reduced area orifice of adjustable size for restricted flow, so as to accelerate the fluid and produce shear. A magnetic unit may also be selectively connected to the housing to produce a magnetic field across the fluid, further reducing viscosity.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Innovative Engineering Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Juan Jose Tovar De Pablos, Philip Gilbert McCurdy
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Patent number: 6607030Abstract: A fluid-driven alternator for use in a downhole well bore having fluid flowing therethrough includes a housing and an internal impeller rotatably mounted in the housing. A stator and rotor are mounted within the housing, and the internal impeller is coupled to the rotor. Fluid flowing through the housing rotates the impeller which in turn rotates the rotor. A flow diverter can be provided to direct fluid into the housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1999Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Assignee: Reuter-Stokes, Inc.Inventors: William H. Bauer, Edward C. Fraser, Henry More
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Patent number: 6595285Abstract: A method and device for emitting radial seismic waves in a material medium by electromagnetic induction, used notably for generating seismic waves in cased or uncased wells or in a water mass is disclosed. Emission of radial waves is essentially obtained by radially expanding a metal tube (1) under the effect of a magnetic pressure generated by electromagnetic induction with elastic waves being created in the medium under the effect of this expansion. The magnetic pressure is obtained by connecting a coil (2) in line with the tube to a current generator (3). The winding pitch of coil (2) can be constant or variable. Tube (1) can for example be added into a well or hole or it can be a tube portion of a cased well.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Institut Francais du PetroleInventors: Jean-Claude Dubois, Patrick Meynier
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Publication number: 20030132003Abstract: The present invention provides a submersible motor and pump system for use in a wellbore. More specifically, the present invention provides a submersible system having a sealed motor and a magnetic coupling to transmit torque from the sealed motor to the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2002Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventors: Grigory L. Arauz, Steven E. Buchanan
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Publication number: 20030131986Abstract: A power generating system (100) for a downhole operation (10) having production tubing (40) in a wellbore (12) includes a magnetized rotation member (110) coupled to the wellbore (12) within the production tubing (40), the rotation member (110) having a passageway (112) through which objects, such as tools, may be passed within the production tubing (40). Support braces (170, 172) couple the rotation member (110) to the production tubing (40) and allow the rotation member (110) to rotate within the production tubing (40). Magnetic pickups (150, 152) are predisposed about the rotation member (110) within the wellbore (12) and a power conditioner (200) is provided to receive currents from the magnetic pickups (150, 152) for storage and future use.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2002Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Fripp, Brock W. Watson
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Patent number: 6568470Abstract: Downhole wellbore tools are actuated by electrically controllable fluids that are energized by a magnetic field. When energized, the viscosity state of the fluid may be increased by a degree depending on the fluid formulation. Reduction of the controllable fluid viscosity by terminating a magnetic field acting upon the fluid may permit in situ wellbore pressure to displace a tool actuating piston. When the field is de-energized, the controllable fluid viscosity quickly falls thereby permitting the fluid to flow through an open orifice into a low pressure receiving volume. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, an expandable volume fluid may be used against a slip actuating element in the same manner as a fluid pressure motor.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: James Edward Goodson, Jr., Michael Carmody
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Patent number: 6554074Abstract: A lift fluid driven downhole electrical generator and method for generating and controlling the electrical output from the electrical generator is disclosed. The electrical generator comprises a housing having a lift fluid port in a sidewall portion thereof for allowing the flow of lift fluids therethrough. A rotor is rotatably disposed within the housing. The rotor converts lift fluid pressure to rotary motion when the lift fluid travels through the lift fluid port and impinges the rotor. The electrical generator also includes an electromagnetic assembly having a first portion that is rotatable with the rotor and a second portion that is stationary with the housing. The electromagnetic assembly converts the rotary motion to electricity as the first portion of an electromagnetic assembly rotates relative to the second portion of the electromagnetic assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Jim Robert Longbottom
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Publication number: 20030075321Abstract: A downhole device, adapted for use in wireline or stickline applications, is provided for incorporation into a downhole string and movement in a wellbore. The device comprises means to orient the device in a well-bore, and one or more conveying means arranged to engage the inner surface of the wellbore and reduce the frictional coefficient. It may also incorporate an eccentric weight and/or a vibrator.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2002Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventor: Robert Neil Hall
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Publication number: 20030024702Abstract: An apparatus and method of determining the point at which a tubular is stuck within another tubular or a wellbore by applying a tensile or torsional force to the stuck tubular and measuring the response of various locations within the tubular. In addition, the apparatus may be combined with a cutting tool to separate the free portion of the tubular from the stuck portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2002Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventors: Kevin L. Gray, James D. Estes
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Publication number: 20030019622Abstract: Downhole wellbore tools are actuated by electrically controllable fluids energized by a magnetic field for example. When energized, the viscosity state of the fluid may be increased by a degree depending on the fluid formulation. Reduction of the controllable fluid viscosity by terminating a magnetic field acting upon the fluid may permit in situ wellbore pressure to displace a tool actuating piston. Displacement of the tool actuating piston is prevented by the controllable fluid in a viscous state. The viscous state of the fluid is energized by a magnetic field environment. When the field is de-energized, the controllable fluid viscosity quickly falls thereby permitting the fluid to flow through an open orifice into a low pressure receiving volume. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, an expandable volume fluid may be used against a slip actuating element in the same manner as a fluid pressure motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2001Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventors: James Edward Goodson, Michael Carmody
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Patent number: 6491117Abstract: A tool for retrieving metal debris from a wellbore has a plurality of magnet assemblies spaced longitudinally along a tool body. Each magnet assembly has a magnet member, which forms a primary debris settling area. Each magnet member is protected by a magnet protector. A secondary debris settling area is formed between a magnet and an adjacent magnet protector to allow utilization of the residual magnetic force created by the magnet members. The secondary debris settling area occupies at least half of the surface area of the primary settling area.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Rattler Tools, Inc.Inventor: David J. Ruttley
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Publication number: 20020174981Abstract: There is provided a downhole device for controlling the flow of fluids through an oil and/or gas production well comprises a deformable chamber which contains an electromagnetic field or other stimuli responsive gel and a fluid passage which is closed off in response to a volume increase of the gel and the deformable chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: Johannis Josephus Den Boer, Astrid Hartwijk, Gerald Sommerauer, John Foreman Stewart
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Patent number: 6439303Abstract: A tool for removal of magnetic debris from a well bore, having a plurality of magnets retained in a plurality of recesses by a plurality of retainer caps which are threadable into the recesses. The retainer caps can be made of non-magnetic material, and non-magnetic spacers can be used, to isolate the magnets from the tool body and the surroundings. The retainer caps can be positioned entirely within the recesses, to streamline the tool body. The magnets can be removed from the recesses and replaced.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Atle Johnny Sorhus, Larry Thomas Palmer
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Publication number: 20020112856Abstract: In the method of providing for well tubular member magnetization, the steps include providing a magnetizing structure comprising an electrical coil defining an axis, relatively displacing the member and the structure, with the coil positioned and guided in close, centered proximity to the member, while supplying electric current to flow in the coil, thereby creating magnetic flux passage through the member and core to magnetize the member, or a part of the member, and displacing the member in a wellbore.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2002Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Donald H. Van Steenwyk, James N. Towle
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Publication number: 20020108747Abstract: The present invention is a surface controlled subsurface safety valve (SCSSV) for use in a well, preferably a hydrocarbon producing well. The SCSSV comprises a valve body having a longitudinal bore for fluid to flow through, a bore closure assembly, a pressure balanced drive assembly, and a fail safe assembly. The bore closure assembly is positioned and normally biased to close the bore to fluid flow. The drive assembly is coupled to the bore closure assembly for driving the bore closure assembly to an open position. The fail safe assembly is positioned and configured to hold the bore closure assembly in the open position in response to a hold signal and to release the valve to return to the safe, closed position upon interruption of the hold signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2001Publication date: August 15, 2002Inventors: Wesley P. Dietz, Robert A. Rademaker, Ron W. McGregor, Bruce E. Scott
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Patent number: 6431270Abstract: The present invention provides a system for performing a desired operation in a wellbore. The system contains a downhole tool which includes a mobility platform that is electrically operated to move the downhole tool in the wellbore and an end work device to perform the desired work. The downhole tool also includes an imaging device to provide pictures of the downhole environment. The data from the downhole tool is communicated to a surface computer, which controls the operation of the tool and displays pictures of the tool environment. Novel tactile sensors for use as imaging devices are also provided. In an alternative embodiment the downhole tool is composed of a base unit and a detachable work unit. The work unit includes the mobility platform, imaging device and the end work device. The tool is conveyed into the wellbore by a conveying member.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Intelligent Inspection CorporationInventor: Colin M. Angle
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Patent number: 6357539Abstract: A tool for retrieving metal objects from a wellbore has a plurality of magnet assemblies spaced longitudinally along a tool body. Each magnet assembly has a plurality of magnet members, which can be arcuate or longitudinal, covering a majority surface area of the tool body. In the embodiment of the invention having longitudinal members, magnet protectors are secured immediately adjacent to a corresponding magnet member for deflecting striking force of the metal particles being attracted to the magnet during rotation of the tool. A trap space if formed between the magnet and an adjacent magnet protector for retaining more metal particles within the magnet assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Rattler Tools, Inc.Inventor: David J. Ruttley
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Patent number: 6354386Abstract: A tool for retrieving metal objects from a wellbore has a plurality of magnet assemblies spaced longitudinally along a tool body. Each magnet assembly has a plurality of magnet members, which can be arcuate or longitudinal, covering a majority surface area of the tool body. In the embodiment of the invention having longitudinal members, magnet protectors are secured immediately adjacent to a corresponding magnet member for deflecting striking force of the metal particles being attracted to the magnet during rotation of the tool. A trap space if formed between the magnet and an adjacent magnet protector for retaining more metal particles within the magnet assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: Rattler Tools, Inc.Inventor: David J. Ruttley
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Method and apparatus of operating devices using actuators having expandable or contractable elements
Publication number: 20020023759Abstract: An apparatus and method of operating devices (such as devices in a wellbore or other types of devices) utilizes actuators having expandable or contractable elements. Such expandable or contractable elements may include piezoelectric elements, magnetostrictive elements, and heat-expandable elements. Piezoelectric elements are expandable by application of an electrical voltage; magnetostrictive elements are expandable by application of a magnetic field (which may be generated by a solenoid in response to an electrical current); and heat-expandable elements are expandable by heat energy (e.g., infrared energy or microwave energy). Expandable elements are abutted to an operator member such that when the expandable element expands, the operator member is moved in a first direction, and when the expandable element contracts, the operator member moves in an opposite direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2001Publication date: February 28, 2002Inventor: Thomas M. Deaton -
Patent number: 6321845Abstract: An apparatus and method of operating devices (such as devices in a wellbore or other types of devices) utilizes actuators having expandable or contractable elements. Such expandable or contractable elements may include piezoelectric elements, magnetostrictive elements, and heat-expandable elements. Piezoelectric elements are expandable by application of an electrical voltage; magnetostrictive elements are expandable by application of a magnetic field (which may be generated by a solenoid in response to an electrical current); and heat-expandable elements are expandable by heat energy (e.g., infrared energy or microwave energy). Expandable elements are abutted to an operator member such that when the expandable element expands, the operator member is moved in a first direction, and when the expandable element contracts, the operator member moves in an opposite direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: November 27, 2001Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Thomas M. Deaton
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Publication number: 20010035288Abstract: A method and apparatus that allows communications of electrical power and signaling from downhole component to another downhole component employs an inductive coupler assembly. In one arrangement, one portion of the inductive coupler assembly is attached to a production tubing section and the other portion of the inductive coupler assembly is attached to a casing or other liner section. The production tubing inductive coupler portion is electrically connected to a cable over which electrical power and signals may be transmitted. Such power and signals are magnetically coupled to the inductive coupler portion in the casing or liner section and communicated to various electrical devices mounted outside the casing or liner section. In other arrangements, inductive coupler assemblies may be used to couple electrical power and signals from the main bore to components in lateral branches of a multilateral well.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Mark W. Brockman, Herve Ohmer, David L. Malone