Including Particular Sensor Patents (Class 340/856.3)
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Patent number: 11414937Abstract: Systems and methods for control/monitoring of internal equipment in a riser assembly are disclosed. The method includes running a tool through at least a portion of an internal bore of a riser assembly associated with a well, and outputting a control signal from a first wireless communication interface disposed along the internal bore of the riser assembly. The first wireless communication interface is coupled to a communication system on the riser assembly. The method also includes receiving the control signal at a second wireless communication interface disposed on the tool, and actuating at least one equipment component of the tool in response to the second wireless communication interface receiving the control signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2020Date of Patent: August 16, 2022Assignee: DRIL-QUIP, INC.Inventors: Blake T. DeBerry, Morris B. Wade
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Patent number: 11268363Abstract: Sliding sleeve assemblies may include one or more sliding sleeve tools to stimulate one or more zones in a wellbore. The one or more sliding sleeve tools may be actuated based on an actuation sensor. A property sensor may be disposed adjacent to a sliding sleeve tool to collect data indicative of a wellbore property associated with one or more different zones of a fracture or the actuation sleeve. The property sensor may transmit data to the surface or to other property sensors associated with downhole tools. Configuring or disposing one or more property sensors to a downhole tool may provide real-time feedback regarding the rate of production for a particular zone or area downhole.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2017Date of Patent: March 8, 2022Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Zachary William Walton, Matthew James Merron
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Patent number: 10731459Abstract: A downhole system has a plurality of telemetry systems and a control system configured to obtain information from one or more sensors and transmit that information on one or more of the plurality of telemetry systems. The configuration of a controller may be changed so as to change which information is transmitted on a given telemetry system and how the information is to be transmitted on the given telemetry system.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2019Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.Inventors: Aaron W. Logan, David A. Switzer, Jili Liu, Justin C. Logan, Mingdong Xu
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Patent number: 9264003Abstract: An apparatus for modifying an audio signal has an envelope shape determiner, a filterbank processor, a signal processor, a combiner and an envelope shaper. The envelope shape determiner determines envelope shape coefficients based on the a frequency domain audio signal representing a time domain input audio signal and the filterbank processor generates a plurality of bandpass signals in a subband domain based on the frequency domain audio signal. Further the signal processor modifies a subband domain bandpass signal of the plurality of subband domain bandpass signals based on a predefined modification target. The combiner combines at least a subset of the plurality of subband domain bandpass signals containing the modified subband domain bandpass signal to obtain a time domain audio signal. Further, the envelope shaper is operative to obtain a shaped audio signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2012Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.Inventor: Sascha Disch
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Patent number: 8947256Abstract: An intelligent monitoring system for a sucker rod including a monitor center, a remote wireless communication equipment communicating with the monitor center and connected with a movement detection and storage equipment of the sucker rod, a radio frequency reader/writer, and a radio frequency storage chip. The movement detection and storage equipment of the sucker rod is connected with the radio frequency reader/writer. The radio frequency storage chip is disposed on the sucker rod to store the information of the sucker rod. The monitoring system can detect and record reciprocating or circumvolving movement of the sucker rod as well as the motion state of the sucker rod in an oil well.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2011Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Shandong Nine-Ring Petroleum Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventors: Minchang Xin, Haifeng Zhang, Tian Sang, Weihua Mao, Jialu Tang, Liang Yin, Juguo Zhang, Xinfang Yang
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Patent number: 8912916Abstract: Method and apparatus using at least one process to reduce a data set using a data adaptive down-sampling scheme comprising a plurality of non-uniform down-sampling factors. The method may include separating the data set into a plurality of data windows, where each of the plurality of data windows corresponds to one of the plurality of non-uniform data-sampling factors; applying the down-sampling factors, and transmitting the reduced data set from a downhole location to the surface. The data set may include an NMR echo train. The apparatus may include an NMR tool configured to acquire NMR data and at least one processor configured to perform the method.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2012Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Holger Tietjen, Mouin Hamdan
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Patent number: 8913952Abstract: In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a wireless sensor system is described. The wireless sensor system includes a near-field wireless power transfer component, at least one measurement sensor, and an antenna. The antenna is in communication with the measurement sensor and can transmit measurements from the measurement sensor. The near-field wireless power transfer component can wirelessly receive power to operate the measurement sensor.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2011Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: University of South CarolinaInventors: Mohammod Ali, Juan Caicedo, Xiaohua Jin
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Patent number: 8823543Abstract: Non-contacting means of measuring the material velocities of harmonic acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of drillpipe, production tubing or coiled tubing are disclosed. Also disclosed are contacting means, enabling measurement of accelerations or material velocities associated with acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of the tubing, utilizing as a detector either a wireless accelerometer system or an optical means, or both; these may also be applied to mud pulse telemetry, wherein the telemetry waves are carried via the drilling fluid, causing strain in the pipe wall that in turn causes wall deformation that can be directly or indirectly assessed by optical means. The present invention enables detection of telemetry wave detection in space-constrained situations. The invention also teaches a substantially contactless method of determining the time-based changes of the propagating telemetry waves.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry Inc.Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff, Douglas S. Drumheller
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Patent number: 8811951Abstract: In one example, a method includes receiving a first indication of an incoming communication and determining that the incoming communication includes private information. The method may also include outputting, for display at a wearable computing device, a second indication of the incoming communication, wherein the indication includes non-private information. The method may also include determining, based on motion data generated by the wearable computing device, that a user of the wearable computing device is likely viewing the wearable computing device. The method may also include outputting, for display at the wearable computing device, an indication of the private information.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2014Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Google Inc.Inventors: Alexander Faaborg, Joshua Robin Kaplan, Michael Steven Feldstein
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Publication number: 20130207814Abstract: Method and apparatus using at least one process to reduce a data set using a data adaptive down-sampling scheme comprising a plurality of non-uniform down-sampling factors. The method may include separating the data set into a plurality of data windows, where each of the plurality of data windows corresponds to one of the plurality of non-uniform data-sampling factors; applying the down-sampling factors, and transmitting the reduced data set from a downhole location to the surface. The data set may include an NMR echo train. The apparatus may include an NMR tool configured to acquire NMR data and at least one processor configured to perform the method.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2012Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Holger Tietjen, Mouin Hamdan
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Publication number: 20130154847Abstract: In one aspect the present invention provides a down-hole monitoring system, comprising one or more pieces of down-hole equipment, for example a down-hole logging tool, and at least one resonant sensor for obtaining physical and chemical parameters of a down-hole fluid in proximity to the sensor. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting material properties of a down-hole fluid, the method comprising placing a resonant LCR sensor within a piece of down-hole equipment, taking sensor readings down-hole, transmitting the sensor readings to a reader device, and analyzing the sensor readings.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Radislav Alexandrovich Potyrailo, Cheryl Margaret Surman, Nicholas Josep Ellson
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Publication number: 20130146359Abstract: A method of monitoring a well for unwanted formation fluid influx is disclosed. Measurements of well outflow are acquired during a period in which drilling operations are performed for the well. Occurrences of stagnant flow events during the period are determined. An outflow signature is generated from the well outflow measurements for each stagnant flow event. The outflow signatures are displayed sequentially in time of occurrence. Each outflow signature is analyzed for an anomaly.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2012Publication date: June 13, 2013Applicant: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.Inventor: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
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Patent number: 8456318Abstract: An occupancy sensor is provided with a housing having an interior cavity. A switch is mounted in the interior cavity of the housing and configured for placement in the open and closed positions. A fascia cover plate may be positioned on the housing to enclose the interior cavity. The fascia cover plate has a fascia rib on an interior surface thereof. The fascia rib is arranged to interfere with the switch in the disabled state to prevent positioning of the fascia cover plate on the housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2008Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventors: R. Kurt Bender, Jonathan D. Williams, Thomas J. Hartnagel, Vadim Konradi
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Patent number: 8451136Abstract: A sonde for installation in a well including a clamp (2) for engaging with the inner wall of a well casing (3) and securing device for securing the clamp to inner tubing of the well, whereby the securing device includes an attachment device (5, 6) for connection to the inner tubing and a rod (4) connected between the clamp and the attachment device.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Paul Steven Jaques, Robert Hughes Jones
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Patent number: 8443458Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for tamper detection of electronic devices (110) in closed units which is robust and low cost. The object is achieved by a method in an electronic device (110) for detecting if a cover (100) enclosing the electronic device (110) has been opened. The cover (100) comprises an enclosing assembly (250) which is adapted to fasten the cover (100) into a closed position. The electronic (device 110) comprises a non volatile memory (120). The non volatile memory (120) comprises a stored reference signature associated to the enclosing assembly (250) when the cover (100) was fastened into a closed position. The method comprises the following steps: (Creating 1003) a signature associated to the enclosing assembly (250). Comparing (1004) the created signature with the reference signature. Detecting (1007) that the cover 100 has been opened when the comparing (1004) results in a difference.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2008Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)Inventor: Dan Anders Lindqvist
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Patent number: 8437220Abstract: An acoustic telemetry isolation system and method for use with tubular assemblies such as drillpipe and production tubing includes an acoustic wave transmitter and an acoustic isolator. A “down” wave propagated toward the isolator is reflected back substantially in phase with an “up” wave propagated from the acoustic wave source away from the isolator. Furthermore, the acoustic isolator is similarly effective in reflecting “up” propagating waves originating from below the isolator, hence further protecting the acoustic wave source from possible deleterious interference. The construction of the isolator utilizes a specified combination of waves traveling in parallel in materials whose properties aid the beneficial combination of reflected and transmitted waves. The design of the isolator is to generally provide a bandstop filter function, thereby aiding the frequency isolation of an acoustic transmitter over a passband that may be constrained by the geometry of drill pipe or components of production tubing.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2010Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Xact Downhold Telemetry, Inc.Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, David D. Whalen, Douglas S. Drumheller
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Patent number: 8427336Abstract: A subsea control module has a casing (1) inside which there is at least one pair of electrodes, there being electronic means (26-33) connected with the electrodes of the or each pair for monitoring at least one electrical characteristic between the electrodes as a result of a fluid to which the electrodes are exposed, the or each pair of electrodes comprising an array (19) in which each electrode of the pair has finger portions interleaved with finger portions of the other electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Julian R. Davis, Simon David Gill, Adrian John Derrick
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Publication number: 20130088364Abstract: During drilling of an earth borehole, resistance measurements may be made at the drill bit through use of a bottom hole assembly that includes a drill bit having a sensor, such as an electrode, located generally at an exterior surface of the drill bit. The current will be induced in the formation from multiple transmitters, at least one of which will be supported on, or very close to the drill bit. Connection mechanisms are described that enable the releasable engagement of electrical conductors to circuitry within the drill bits. The obtained resistivity measurements at the drill bit can be used for many purposes, including formation imaging and geosteering of the drilling operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2010Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Michael S. Bittar, Gary Weaver, Vadim Minosvan
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Patent number: 8305230Abstract: An apparatus for initializing a wellbore survey tool comprises a base portion and a first mounting portion mechanically coupled to the base portion. The first mounting portion can be adapted to be mechanically coupled to at least one directional reference system configured to provide data indicative of an orientation of the at least one directional reference system with respect to a reference direction. The apparatus of certain embodiments further comprises a second mounting portion mechanically coupled to the base portion, the second mounting portion configured to be mechanically coupled to a wellbore survey tool such that the wellbore survey tool has a predetermined orientation with respect to the at least one directional reference system.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2009Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: GYRODATA, IncorporatedInventors: John Lionel Weston, Roger Ekseth
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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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Publication number: 20120223839Abstract: A dynamometer measures applied weight and torque at a running tool location and transmits the measured information to a drilling rig operator. The system includes a dynamometer stem having a bidirectional torque and weight sensor coupled inline to the drill string, and further coupled to the running tool, so that the dynamometer stem will measure an applied torque and weight at the running tool and produce a signal in response. The dynamometer stem communicatively couples to a receptor stem, so that the receptor stem may receive the signal from the dynamometer stem. The receptor stem couples inline to the drill string at a rotary table of the drilling rig, and further communicatively couples to a display located proximate to an operator of the drilling rig, so that the receptor stem may transmit the signal to the display. The display presents the signal in real time to the operator.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2011Publication date: September 6, 2012Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Francisco Kazuo Kobata, Lucas Antonio Perrucci, Rafael Romeiro Aymone, Pedro Paulo Alfano
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Patent number: 8188882Abstract: A downhole device, position verifiable string includes a downhole device; a string in operable communication with downhole device; and a plurality of sensor units each sensing at least one of acceleration and strain in the string and spaced from each other along the string from downhole device to a remote location of the drill string and method.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2008Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Holger Mathiszik
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Publication number: 20120089379Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to enhance logging data images. Some system embodiments include a dowhole tool, at least one sensor, and a processing system. The downhole tool gathers two-dimensional logging data while moving through a borehole. The sensor(s) measure at least one characteristic of the downhole tool's operation or environment, such as tool motion, offset distance, borehole geometry, and/or properties of the borehole fluid. Such characteristics can cause smearing or spreading of the tool's logging data measurements. Accordingly the processing system determines a de-spreading function based at least in part on the measured characteristic(s) and applies the de-spreading function to the two-dimensional logging data to obtain an enhanced logging data image, which can be presented to a user via a user interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2009Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Christopher J. Conrad
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Patent number: 8096354Abstract: Methods and related systems for use with a wireline tool system. A wireline cable designed to deploy a wireline tool into a wellbore from a surface. The wireline cable includes one or more conducting members for communication between the wireline tool and the surface. A plurality of sensing elements located on the wireline cable in a spaced apart fashion along a length of the wireline cable, wherein each sensing element is in communication with one or more adjacent sensing element.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Martin E. Poitzsch, Pabitra N. Sen, Karen Wiemer, Guillemette Picard, Muthusamy Vembusubramanian
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Publication number: 20120007747Abstract: The invention relates to a method for transmitting data from a device, such as is used in endoscopy or microsurgery, for example, to a receiving unit, wherein a magnetic dipole disposed in or on the device is rotationally driven, the data are generated by a change in the rotational frequency of the magnetic dipole, and the changing magnetic field of the magnetic dipole is received and analyzed by the receiving unit, wherein the rotational speed range in which the magnetic dipole can be driven is divided into partial ranges, each associated with a type of data.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2009Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: Rayonex Schwingungstechnik GbmHInventors: Volker Boike, Elmar Koch
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Patent number: 8086265Abstract: A mobile communication device is configured to sense a plurality of ambient characteristics using a plurality of sensors. In an embodiment, one or more of the plurality of sensors, such as microphone or camera, can be used for other functions of the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device adjusts one or more user interface characteristics of the mobile communication device based on the sensed plurality of ambient characteristics. The mobile communication device thereby provides for automatic adjustment of various user interface characteristics based on the ambient conditions of the environment around the mobile communication device.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, LPInventor: Scott White
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Publication number: 20110253447Abstract: Methods, computer programs, and systems for detecting at least one downhole condition are disclosed. Forces are measured at a plurality of locations along the drillstring. The drillstring includes a drillpipe. At least one of the forces is measured along the drillpipe. At least one downhole condition is detected based, at least in part, on at least one measured force.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventor: Daniel D. Gleitman
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Patent number: 7987027Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for providing machine health information. In one embodiment, a machine may include a storage device that is configured to store collected machine health data. The storage device has a module that is configured to determine a data characteristic and a communication characteristic. The storage device is further configured to determine, based on the data characteristic and the communication characteristic, whether to transmit a set of machine health data to an off-board system. Further, the storage device is coupled to a transmitter that is configured to transmit the set of machine health data to the off-board system.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2006Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Jonny Ray Greiner, James Thomas McCarty, William Todd Hasty, Daniel Roy Hangartner
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Patent number: 7970544Abstract: Stoneley-wave data acquired in the LWD environment are used to characterize/estimate formation permeability. Real-time Stoneley-wave time-delay/slowness and center-frequency/attenuation data are used to indicate/characterize formation permeability even during drilling. The use of stabilizers mounted at the tool ends helps maintain the tool position from severe decentralization, reducing ambiguities in the permeability characterization/estimation.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Xiao Ming Tang, Douglas J. Patterson
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Publication number: 20110109470Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for relative positioning of wells. A method in accordance with an exemplary embodiment may include drilling a new well in a field having at least three completed wells using a drilling tool that includes a magnetometer. The method may further include driving current on a first pair of the at least three completed wells and then driving current on a second pair of the at least three completed wells, wherein the current is driven on each of the first and second pairs in a balanced mode. The method may also include measuring a direction of a first magnetic field generated by the current on the first pair using the magnetometer, measuring a direction of a second magnetic field generated by the current on the second pair using the magnetometer, and determining a location of the drilling tool relative to the completed wells based on the direction of the first magnetic field and the direction of the second magnetic field.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2009Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventors: Brian Clark, Jan S. Morley
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Patent number: 7928861Abstract: Non-contacting means of measuring the material velocities of harmonic acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of drillpipe, production tubing or coiled tubing are disclosed. Also disclosed are contacting means, enabling measurement of accelerations or material velocities associated with acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of the tubing, utilizing as a detector either a wireless accelerometer system or an optical means, or both; these may also be applied to mud pulse telemetry, wherein the telemetry waves are carried via the drilling fluid, causing strain in the pipe wall that in turn causes wall deformation that can be directly or indirectly assessed by optical means. The present invention enables detection of telemetry wave detection in space-constrained situations. The invention also teaches a substantially contactless method of determining the time-based changes of the propagating telemetry waves.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2007Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry Inc.Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff, Douglas S. Drumheller
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Publication number: 20110050453Abstract: An electronic control system for drilling devices, includes at least one pair of data-processing units (2a, 2b); a plurality of data-exchange lines, connected to the data-processing units (2a, 2b) for transmission of signals from and to control devices (4a-4c) of the drilling device; and accessories or sensors (5, 9) proper to the drilling device. Each of the data-processing units (2a, 2b) is redundated by the others with one and the same level of hierarchy, and all the data-processing units (2a, 2b) are connected to all the control devices (4a-4c) and to the accessories or sensors (5, 9) proper to the drilling device through the electronic data-exchange lines redundated in a number equal to the multiplicity of the data-processing units (2a, 2b).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2010Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: Soilmec S.p.A.Inventors: Pietro Fontana, Alberto Antonelli
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Publication number: 20100295703Abstract: An apparatus for initializing a wellbore survey tool comprises a base portion and a first mounting portion mechanically coupled to the base portion. The first mounting portion can be adapted to be mechanically coupled to at least one directional reference system configured to provide data indicative of an orientation of the at least one directional reference system with respect to a reference direction. The apparatus of certain embodiments further comprises a second mounting portion mechanically coupled to the base portion, the second mounting portion configured to be mechanically coupled to a wellbore survey tool such that the wellbore survey tool has a predetermined orientation with respect to the at least one directional reference system.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2009Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: Gyrodata IncorporatedInventors: John Lionel Weston, Roger Ekseth
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Publication number: 20100259416Abstract: A sensor used to determine the height of one or more fluids in a fluid column and to determine a location of an interface or boundary between a plurality of fluids in a fluid column is disclosed. The sensor includes a plurality of sensing elements comprising a capacitor and other components, such as resistors and inductors. The sensor also includes an oscillator that alters a frequency of an electrical current applied to the sensor, from which the dielectric constant of the fluid in which each sensing element is disposed can be determined. Methods of using such a sensor to determine the relative heights of various fluids in a fluid column are disclosed. In particular, methods of using embodiments of the invention in a well, such as water and petroleum wells, are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Inventor: Warren Michael Levy
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Publication number: 20100171639Abstract: A method of signal processing includes providing at least a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor spaced in a drilling system and using an algorithm to separate the downwardly propagating waves from the upwardly propagating waves. In one or more examples, an algorithm may include determining a velocity of pressure signals in a wellbore, time-shifting and stacking pressure signals from at least the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor to determine a downwardly propagating noise signal, and subtracting the downwardly propagating noise signal from at least the signal from the first pressure sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Inventor: BRIAN CLARK
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Publication number: 20100133833Abstract: A method and system for generating electrical power in a downhole well is disclosed. In an embodiment, the electrical power is generated by the rotational motion of a downhole tool and enables the charging or recharging of batteries in downhole sensors or sensors in other remote locations, such as in a water column. Magnets are arranged in a manner to provide a rotating magnetic field and are then coupled or attached to the rod/rotor assembly in close proximity to the rotating tool. By utilizing the rotational energy of a tool that uses or causes rotational motion during operations in conjunction with the windings of an electrical conductor and power conditioning circuitry, the rotation of the magnets induces an electrical current in the electrical conductor and power conditioning circuitry that can then be used to directly charge a tool and/or to instead charge or recharge the batteries that power the downhole or below-surface sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2009Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventor: Brock A. Williams
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Publication number: 20100102986Abstract: The invention provides for electromagnetic transmission and reception used in detecting relative changes associated with nano devices existing within an oil reservoir. The system enables monitoring of the relative movement of the nano devices in the oil and/or water over a given area based on the incremental or relative changes of the intensity of the reflections over time. In one embodiment, a source of electromagnetic energy from an array of antennae transmitting immediately in the far field recharges a power source embedded in the nano devices. In another embodiment, the return signals from the nano devices maps the morphology of ensembles of nano devices. In yet another embodiment the transmission controls the movement of the nano devices and controls the function preformed by the nano devices relative to effecting changes in the well to improve production of oil.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2009Publication date: April 29, 2010Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPRATIONInventors: Vincent Benischek, Michael Currie
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Patent number: 7638948Abstract: An apparatus and method adapted to detect a failure in at least one lamphead of an emergency lighting system includes a signal generator and a failure sensor. The lamphead receives power from a power connection. The signal generator generates a monitoring signal having a voltage, which is operatively coupled to the power connection. The failure sensor detects a failure in the lamphead and modifies the voltage of the monitoring signal. The emergency lighting system may also include a plurality of lampheads. In this case, the failure sensor may detect a failure in at least one of the lampheads, and identify which of the plurality of lampheads has failed. The failure sensor may also be adapted to reduce the voltage of the monitoring signal in response to detection of the failure.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2007Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventors: Camille Descarries, Christian Briere
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Publication number: 20090229820Abstract: An interface to provide coupling between a downhole sensor and wiring to other electrical equipment. The interface is configured to obtain voltage from a single power line and provide it to the downhole sensor while simultaneously converting sensor data to frequency form for transmission right back over the same power line. In this manner a substantial reduction in downhole wiring may be obtained. This may be particularly beneficial for sensors to be incorporated into downhole equipment where size and space issues are prevalent, particularly in the circumstance of equipment requiring a retrofit in order to accommodate the sensor capacity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2009Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventor: Gohar Saeed
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Publication number: 20090211754Abstract: A fluid can be tracked in a wellbore utilizing at least one WID tag, such as an LW tag or an RFID tag, entrained in the fluid. A WID tag reader can be disposed and/or displaced in the wellbore, for example, on a drill string or a casing string. A reader can be utilized to locate the at least one WID tag in the wellbore. A reader can be housed in a drill string sub. A fluid entrained with at least one WID tag can be utilized as a tracer fluid. A WID tag can be entrained in cement or a drilling or fracture fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2008Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: TURBO-CHEM INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Robin J. Verret, Michael J. Kilchrist
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Publication number: 20090207041Abstract: A method of measuring while drilling includes positioning at least one sensor downhole; and transmitting sensed data while drilling from the at least one sensor to surface without storing the sensed data downhole and system.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Ralf Zaeper, Michael W. King
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Publication number: 20090050368Abstract: An apparatus for measuring forces acting on a tubing string within a wellbore, comprising a body including a central passage and an internal void radially offset from the central passage. End portions extending from the body each include an internal passage and an interface configured to detachably couple to the tubing string for conveyance within the wellbore. A clamp is detachably coupled to one end portion, and first sensors coupled to the clamp are configured to detect strain induced by forces acting on the tubing string. At least one second sensor coupled to the body is configured to detect pressure and temperature within the wellbore. A memory device coupled to the body within the internal void is configured to log measurements detected by the first and second sensors. An electrical power supply coupled to the body within the internal void is configured to provide electrical power to the memory device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2007Publication date: February 26, 2009Applicant: PINNACLE TECHNOLOGIESInventors: Lawrence G. Griffin, Randy Blackmon, Philippe Legrand, Glenn McColpin
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Publication number: 20080289408Abstract: Methods and systems for investigating downhole conditions are described. One method comprises inserting a tubular into a wellbore, the tubular comprising a tubular section having upper and lower fluid injection ports, and having a thermally insulated fiber optic cable section positioned inside the tubular extending to the upper fluid injection port, and a non-insulated fiber optic cable section positioned outside of the tubular section and extending at least between the upper and lower fluid injection ports; positioning the tubular section having upper and lower fluid injection ports near a suspected thief or pay zone; injecting a fluid through the upper fluid injection port; determining a first differential temperature profile between the upper and lower fluid injection ports; injecting a fluid through the lower fluid injection port; and determining a second differential temperature profile at least between the upper and lower fluid injection ports.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2007Publication date: November 27, 2008Inventors: Sarmad Adnan, Stephen Nigel Davies, Jerome Maniere, Christopher Lenn
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Publication number: 20080291048Abstract: The downhole tool disclosed herein comprises a body, a flexible member attached to the body, and a transducer housed in the body. The flexible member compresses against one side of the wellbore and urges the body against the other side. The transducer emits a signal to the flexible member reflectable from the flexible member back to the transducer. The signal travel time from the transducer to the flexible member and back is analyzed for estimating the distance between the body and the flexible member. The standoff distance can be estimated from the distance between the body and the flexible member. From the standoff distance, the wellbore diameter is estimated. The tool may also obtain wellbore dimensions by obtaining near side wellbore standoff and using a magnetic ruler to determine bowspring flexing. The magnetic ruler results may be used in conjunction with or without the far side standoff data.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2007Publication date: November 27, 2008Inventors: Cornelis Huiszoon, Homero C. Castillo, Shawn A. Olsen, Roger R. Steinsiek, Gabriel Villasmil
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Patent number: 7453768Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a high-speed measurement system has a first and a second well bore. A first and second plurality of network nodes is integrated into and spaced at intervals along the first and second well bore, respectively. A communications channel connects each plurality of network nodes forming a first and second downhole network. A signal source is in communication with the first downhole network and a signal receiver is in communication with the second downhole network; and a common clock source is in communication with both the signal source and the signal receiver over the first and second downhole networks, respectively. The signal source and signal receiver are synchronized with the clock source and the signal source is adapted to send a signal to the signal receiver through a subterranean formation.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2006Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox, Christopher Durrand
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Publication number: 20080252479Abstract: A downhole device, position verifiable string includes a downhole device; a string in operable communication with downhole device; and a plurality of sensor units each sensing at least one of acceleration and strain in the string and spaced from each other along the string from downhole device to a remote location of the drill string and method.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2008Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventor: Holger Mathiszik
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Publication number: 20080231466Abstract: A wellbore servicing computing network, comprising a first component with a first interface coupled to a connection device, and a second component with a second interface coupled to the connection device; wherein the first component is capable of communication with the second component through the connection device, and wherein the first interface and the second interface are dissimilar; and wherein the first component is oilfield equipment and the second component is a computer.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Mehdi Mazrooee, Ron Dant, Donald A. Belcher
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Publication number: 20080136665Abstract: A drilling system utilizing a plurality of independent telemetry systems. The drilling system uses a drill collar as a pressure housing for downhole components of the system. One or more sensors are disposed within the pressure housing. These sensors can be MWD sensors, LWD sensors, or both MWD and LWD sensors. A plurality of independent borehole telemetry systems is used to telemeter sensor response data to the surface of the earth. Each sensor cooperates with a downhole component of at least one of the independent telemetry systems. The plurality of telemetry systems can be of the same type, such as a mud pulse systems. Alternately, the telemetry systems can be of different types including a mud pulse system and an electromagnetic system.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2006Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: PRECISION ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Robert Anthony Aiello, Michael Louis Larronde, John Martin, Steven R. Farley, Kirk Towns
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Patent number: 7283060Abstract: A method and apparatus for a computer controlled apparatus for use in wellbore completions. A touch-screen is provided that facilitates commands and information that is entered by an operator ordering movement of a downhole tool. In another embodiment, real-time information about the status of the downhole tools is transmitted to the apparatus based upon operating variables within the system, like pressure, flow rate, total flow, and time.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2004Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Clark Robison, Scott Weatherill
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Patent number: RE40944Abstract: A telemetry system involving a shear-type mud pulser valve as the preferred embodiment is described. The control system includes a motor driver for the mud pulser which, in essence, moves one movable plate with respect to a stationary plate to create openings of various sizes. Pressure is sensed uphole of the pulser valve and is compared in real time to the desired pressure pulse amplitude. By allowing different relative rotational positions of the rotatable plate with respect to the stationary plate, different amplitudes can be achieved to further enhance the transmission of data to the surface. The control system compensates for wear in the mud pulser valve itself as well as drastic changes in mud flow and pressure. The configuration is simple and not prone to fouling from grit or other particles in the mud.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Terry A. Seyler, Macmillan M. Wisler