Well Logging Type Patents (Class 367/69)
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Patent number: 11517393Abstract: An illumination system for a lighting assembly comprises a light assembly configured to selectively illuminate an operating region in a surgical suite and a plurality of light sources positioned within the light assembly and configured to emit light. The system further comprises at least one imager configured to capture image data and a controller. The controller is configured to scan the image data in at least one region of interest for a shaded region and identify a location of the shaded region within the region of interest. The controller is further configured to control the light assembly to activate at least one of the light sources to emit light impinging on the shaded region within the region of interest.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2021Date of Patent: December 6, 2022Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATIONInventors: Jason D. Hallack, Joshua D. Lintz, David M. Falb, Kurtis L. Geerlings, William L. Tonar, Bradley R. Hamlin, Jeremy A. Schut, Mark A. VanVuuren, Steven J. Veenman, Jordan Miller, Heidi Nelson
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Patent number: 11112513Abstract: A method for estimating sonic slowness comprising: obtaining (700) a plurality of sonic waveforms are received by a plurality of receivers of a logging tool after emission of a source sonic wave by a transmitter, obtaining (710) slowness models of the subterranean formation, a slowness model being defined by a at least one cell of constant slowness for at least one wave energy mode, computing (720), for each slowness model, a set of candidate travel times, a candidate travel time of a set of candidate travel times being computed for a wave energy mode and a position of a receiver of the plurality of receivers, computing (730) a relevance indicator for each set of candidate travel times based on the recorded sonic waveforms; searching (740) a match between the sets of candidate travel times and the recorded sonic waveforms by searching a relevance indicator which is optimum, computing (750) a sonic slowness estimate for the subterranean formation from a set of candidate travel times for which the relevance indType: GrantFiled: March 21, 2017Date of Patent: September 7, 2021Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Bassem Khadhraoui, Saad Kisra
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Patent number: 11112526Abstract: The disclosure is directed to waveform processing methods for collected sonic logging data. The data can be collected from various types of well systems. The methods utilize an amplitude analysis, utilizing the collected data, to build an adaptive data mask. The adaptive data mask can then be applied to a semblance analysis of the collected data to suppress or partially suppress alias data elements. A threshold parameter can be utilized to eliminate intensity values that do not satisfy the threshold criteria. The adaptive data mask can utilize amplitude or instantaneous amplitude analysis. Also, disclosed is a computer program product capable of executing the methods and algorithms described herein. A waveform processing system is disclosed that can perform the methods and algorithms as described herein.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2019Date of Patent: September 7, 2021Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Ruijia Wang
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Patent number: 10378318Abstract: The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a wearable computer device positionable on a human body. The wearable computer device is configured to receive sensor information from a collection of sensors that includes a first sensor and a second sensor, the first sensor attached to the human wearable device and the second sensor connected to the human wearable device, the sensor information describing operational attributes of the oil and gas drilling or production operations that either implements a hydrocarbon recovery process or a hydrocarbon recovery machine at a time of obtaining the sensor information, identify baseline sensor information describing operational attributes during normal operation of either the hydrocarbon recovery process or the hydrocarbon recovery machine, compare the sensor information and the baseline sensor information, and provide a notification indicating an operational condition of the oil and gas drilling or production operation.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2014Date of Patent: August 13, 2019Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Daniel David Gleitman, Saad Saeed, Kristy Bell, Florin Anghelescu, David Crawshay
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Patent number: 9703005Abstract: Systems and methods for performing downhole analysis within a well bore employ a swept source laser that can be sent downhole to generate high resolution images of the well bore. Various embodiments can also determine other physical properties of a below ground structure. The swept source lasers can create images using low-coherence interferometry or optical coherence tomography. Systems and methods may also be used to determine fluid flow rates towards the sensor at discrete points, such as individual perforations, by measuring the Doppler effect on the light back-scattered from the fluid. Fluid flow information could also be extracted by measuring the phase shift of the light between subsequent light scans if a phase sensitive detection scheme is utilized.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2016Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: JP3 Measurement, LLCInventors: Joseph Paul Little, III, Jordan Dwelle, William Howard
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Patent number: 9022129Abstract: A method and system are described for identifying a geologic object through cross sections of a geologic data volume. The method includes obtaining a geologic data volume having a set of cross sections. Then, two or more cross sections are selected and a transformation vector is estimated between the cross sections. Based on the transformation vector, a geologic object is identified within the geologic data volume.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Mark W. Dobin, Chul-Sung Kim, Ross Whitaker
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Patent number: 8913461Abstract: Measurements made by a transducer assembly for downhole imaging are affected by reverberations between the transducer and the window on the outside of the assembly. The reverberations result in a stationary noise on the image. Hardware solutions to improve signal-to-noise ratio includes using a composite transducer, adjusting the distance between the transducer and the window. SNR can also be improved by processing techniques that include stacking, fitting a sinusoid to the reverberation, by envelope peak detection, and by applying a notch filter.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2013Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Roger R. Steinsiek, Jason M. Harris, Jinsong Zhao, Douglas J. Patterson, James B. Domnanish
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Patent number: 8831886Abstract: Embodiments of this invention relate to compositions and methods of processing a subterranean formation including collecting microseismic data from one wellbore, collecting amplitude ratio information for the microseismic data, comparing the amplitude ratio to an expected ratio, generating a representation of a formation based on the microseismic data and the comparison of the amplitude ratio and expected ratio, and performing an oil field services activity based on the representation.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Michael John Williams
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Patent number: 8634272Abstract: Measurements made by a transducer assembly for downhole imaging are affected by reverberations between the transducer and the window on the outside of the assembly. The reverberations result in a stationary noise on the image. Hardware solutions to improve signal-to-noise ratio includes using a composite transducer, adjusting the distance between the transducer and the window. SNR can also be improved by processing techniques that include stacking, fitting a sinusoid to the reverberation, by envelope peak detection, and by applying a notch filter.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2010Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Roger R. Steinsiek, Jason M. Harris, Jinsong Zhao, Douglas J. Patterson, James B. Domnanish
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Patent number: 8614713Abstract: A computer implemented method to create a well log by forming an editable well log template, importing user information, continuously importing well sensor information, well event based observation data; well fluid testing data, scaling the imported data, forming scaled values, computing a microview log plot and a macroview log plot simultaneously using the scaled values; creating an executive dashboard, inserting real time well logging information into the executive dashboard as the well logging information is detected forming an executive dashboard, monitoring the well drilling using the executive dashboard while viewing both the macroview log plot and the microview log plot simultaneously on a real time basis enabling safety interpretations for drilling, geological interpretations for drilling, operational interpretations for drilling, and combinations of these interpretations, in real time.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2013Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Selman and Associates, Ltd.Inventors: Thomas H. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings
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Patent number: 8270250Abstract: In some embodiments, apparatus and systems, as well as methods, may operate to select an amount of imaging coverage associated with a substantially tubular object and a rotary scanner coupled to a telemetry system. Determining circumferential and longitudinal scan sampling intervals to provide substantially full coverage of the substantially tubular object may be included. Waveform sampling and transducer driving waveform parameters may also be determined according to an available data transmission bandwidth associated with the telemetry system.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2006Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Clovis Bonavides, Batakrishna Mandal
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Patent number: 8228758Abstract: The present invention is a method of creating an image in a wellbore that includes receiving input data from a wellbore at one or more measured depths. The input data including geometry of wellbore, tool setting, survey data, trajectory of wellbore (button angle) etc. One dimensional arrays are constructed for a measured depth in one direction by a) calculating maximum positive amplitudes from input data and b) obtaining a sinusoidal line at a measured depth from the maximum positive amplitudes and assigning the sinusoidal line physical property. The calculations of a) and b) are repeated to obtain multiple arrays. A synthetic image is constructing from the multiple arrays and a synthetic image is outputted.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: RuiXia Liu
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Patent number: 8086408Abstract: A method for positioning a wire having nodes and streamers is provided herein. The wire can be secured to tow lines secured to a floating vessel for detecting near surface geology formations. The method can use in-water sensors deployed proximate to the wire near the tow lines, and a processor with data storage in communication with the in-water sensors. The method can use a data array, a library of data formats, a library of wires, a library of preset limits, and a network. The method can include receiving sensor information, filtering sensor information, verifying filtered signals, constructing and modifying a mathematical model, obtaining a list of coordinates, constructing a real-time display of the wire, identifying a location of at least one streamer, transmitting alarms, creating a trend analysis over time and event-by-event, and creating a log file using the industry standard data formats.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2011Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: NCS Subsea, Inc.Inventors: Edward Majzlik, Alfred L. Hise, Brian Hardy
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Publication number: 20110188347Abstract: Methods and systems are described for measuring effects of a hydraulic fracturing process. The techniques can utilizes cross-well seismic technology, such as used in Schlumberger's DeepLook-CS tools and service, or in some case surface to borehole or borehole to surface seismic technology. The downhole seismic sources at known locations can be conventional sources or can be other types of equipment operating at known locations such as perforation guns. The source is activated or swept creating energy which is transmitted through the formation. The energy is recorded at the receiver array and processed to yield a tomographic image indicating changes in the subterranean formation resulting from the hydraulic fracturing process. The process can be performed pre and post hydraulic fracture stimulation to generate a difference image of propped fractures in the reservoir.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Marc Thiercelin, Joel Le Calvez, Javaid Durrani, Mark McCallum, Bruce P. Marion, Luke Wilkens, Gisele Thiercelin
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Patent number: 7925483Abstract: A method for displaying a formation model while drilling a wellbore in the formation includes operating a well logging instrument at a measurement point in the formation along a wellbore while the wellbore is being drilled. Measurement data regarding the formation are obtained from the well logging instrument. An actual orientation of a geological structure is determined from the measurement data. A trajectory of the wellbore is displayed in three dimensions as it is being drilled through the formation. While drilling the wellbore, the geological structure is displayed along the trajectory of the wellbore according to the determined actual orientation of the geological structure. The actual orientation reflects an azimuth angle of planes corresponding to the geological structure. The trajectory of the wellbore is changed in response to displaying the determined actual orientation of the geological structure relative to the trajectory.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Peiwen Xia, Jan W. Smits, Lawrence Chou, Qiming Li, Dzevat Omeragic, James F. Bristow, Paul A. Wand, Jean-Michel Denichou
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Patent number: 7885142Abstract: An acoustic logging system that measures distribution of foam cement and other material in a casing-borehole annulus. The distribution is preferably displayed as map. A borehole tool utilizes at least one acoustic transducer with a known frequency response and mounted on a rotating scanning head that is pointed essentially perpendicular to the borehole wall. The response of the transducer is used to measure an original impedance map of material within the borehole-casing annulus. A fast Fourier transform is used to generate a FFT map from the data comprising the original impedance map. The original impedance map is then combined with the FFT map using logic rules to obtain a final impedance map that is indicative of material within the casing-borehole annulus.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Precision Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Lucio N. Tello, Sarah D. Molder
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Patent number: 7834519Abstract: A precise and high load resistance moving method to perform fine movement positioning of the moving body, by fixing a piezoelectric element which generates a shear deformation, to a bottom surface of a wedge-shaped moving element placed on a base, and deforming the piezoelectric element by driving the piezoelectric element with drive pulses to move the wedge-shaped moving element along a first axis in which the wedge-shaped moving element drives into or away from a moving body to move the moving body along a second axis in upward and downward direction relative to the base. Also, a precise and high load resistance moving device including a wedge-shaped moving element, a pulse source, and a moving body vertically movable in upward or downward direction relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Japan Science and Technology AgencyInventor: Hideki Kawakatsu
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Patent number: 7676326Abstract: A method and system of detecting and mapping a subsurface hydrocarbon reservoir includes determining ratio data for a plurality of orthogonal spectral components of naturally occurring low frequency background seismic data. The ratio data may be compared, plotted, contoured and displayed as a subsurface hydrocarbon reservoir map or a hydrocarbon potential map. The ratio data may represent a vertical spectral component of the seismic data over a horizontal spectral component of the seismic data. The subsurface hydrocarbon reservoir map may include contouring the ratio data over a geographical area associated with the seismic data.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2007Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Spectraseis AGInventors: Yuri Podladchikov, Marc-André Lambert, Rodolphe Dewarrat, Stefan Schmalholz
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Patent number: 7638923Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a control unit for operating a hydraulic injection valve, which comprises at least one piezoelectric actuator (2), a displaceable component (3) and a hydraulic element (9) such as bearing or a transmission system. The use of a drive voltage (U) modifies the length of an actuator (2), which makes it possible to control the stroke of the displaceable component (a valve needle 3). The inventive control unit (10) produces a polarizing voltage (UB) which pre-stresses the actuator (2) and whose polarization direction is opposite to the polarization direction of said actuator (2). Said invention makes it possible to obtain the greater modification of the length when the actuator (2) operates in the polarization direction than the drive voltage starts at 0 volts, as it was in practice before. Said invention makes it possible to reduce energy consumption.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Georg Bachmaier, Bernhard Fischer, Bernhard Gottlieb, Andreas Kappel, Tim Schwebel
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Patent number: 7630872Abstract: A method for displaying a formation model includes displaying a trajectory representing a three-dimensional structure of the wellbore; and displaying objects representing a bed boundary along the trajectory, wherein the objects are displayed at distances from the trajectory according to measurement data, wherein the objects are displayed in orientations reflecting azimuth angles of planes corresponding to the bed boundary.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2005Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Peiwen Xia, Jan W. Smits, Lawrence Chou, Qiming Li, Dzevat Omeragic, James F. Bristow, Paul A. Wand, Jean-Michel Denichou
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Patent number: 7622847Abstract: A precise and high load resistance moving method to perform fine movement positioning of the moving body, by fixing a piezoelectric element which generates a shear deformation, to a bottom surface of a wedge-shaped moving element placed on a base, and deforming the piezoelectric element by driving the piezoelectric element with drive pulses to move the wedge-shaped moving element along a first axis in which the wedge-shaped moving element drives into or away from a moving body to move the moving body along a second axis in upward and downward direction relative to the base. Also, a precise and high load resistance moving device including a wedge-shaped moving element, a pulse source, and a moving body vertically movable in upward or downward direction relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2005Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Japan Science and Technology AgencyInventor: Hideki Kawakatsu
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Publication number: 20080253230Abstract: Exemplary systems and methods are directed to transmission of electromagnetic (EM) pulses in a downhole environment, which is located below a surface of a landform. A sequence of EM energy pulses is generated from a signal generator located at the surface of the landform. The energy pulses are reflected at a ring frequency by one or more downhole transducers. The reflected energy pulse is received at a receiver, which is located at the surface, during a predetermined time interval. The receiver detects the received energy pulses through a time domain or frequency domain technique. The detected ring frequency is correlated to a parameter or condition of the downhole environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2007Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: M. Clark Thompson, David W. Beck, Don M. Coates
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Publication number: 20080144439Abstract: Techniques for displaying sonic logging data that provide highly reliable, visual quality-control (QC) indicators. One aspect herein is directed to a display of sonic logging data corresponding to a slowness frequency analysis (SFA) projection log.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2008Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventors: Thomas J. Plona, Shu-Kong Chang
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Publication number: 20080037368Abstract: A method for analyzing a tubing section with multiple sensors at a consistent speed to improve the analysis and grading of tubing retrieved from an oil well. An analysis speed can be pre-set or input based on the tubing being analyzed and the sensors employed. The analysis data can be retrieved and charted based on whether the data was obtained within the required analysis speed. The data can then be displayed for grading and color-coded based on the data obtained within the required ranged and that obtained outside the range. Further, the display can remove the data obtained outside the required range and link together the remaining data to improve the grading process of the tubing sections.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2007Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
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Patent number: 6823297Abstract: A multi-scale finite-volume (MSFV) method to solve elliptic problems with a plurality of spatial scales arising from single or multi-phase flows in porous media is provided. Two sets of locally computed basis functions are employed. A first set of basis functions captures the small-scale heterogeneity of the underlying permeability field, and it is computed to construct the effective coarse-scale transmissibilities. A second set of basis functions is required to construct a conservative fine-scale velocity field. The method efficiently captures the effects of small scales on a coarse grid, is conservative, and treats tensor permeabilities correctly. The underlying idea is to construct transmissibilities that capture the local properties of a differential operator. This leads to a multi-point discretization scheme for a finite-volume solution algorithm. Transmissibilities for the MSFV method are preferably constructed only once as a preprocessing step and can be computed locally.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignees: Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Patrick Jenny, Seong Lee, Hamdi A. Tchelepi
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Patent number: 6697710Abstract: A gas pipe explorer formed of a plurality of connecting elements, and an articulation element between the connected elements. The connected elements include drive capabilities, and the articulation element allows the connected elements to traverse gas pipes of arbitrary shapes and sizes. A sensor may sends the characteristics of the gas pipe, and the communication element may send back those sends characteristics. The communication can be wired, over a tether connecting the device to a remote end. Alternatively, the connection can be wireless, driven by either a generator or a battery.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2001Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventor: Brian Wilcox
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Patent number: 6671600Abstract: A method of producing a projected useful form from an existing body delimited by a three-dimensional envelope using a tool mounted on a machine cooperating with a global satellite positioning system of the bifrequency, differential, kinematic and real time type such as GPS, the machine having at least one global positioning receiver in order to be moved according to a theoretical model of the form, is provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: GTM ConstructionInventor: Gaëtan Hintzy
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Patent number: 6205087Abstract: A sonic logging method involves the pre-processing of a detection signal by a downhole processing device to determine the arrival time of a sonic signal at a receiver which is then transmitted to the surface. A suitable sonic logging downhole tool includes a control device for controlling generation and reception of the sonic signal, an A-D converter for digitizing the detected signal at a predetermined sampling interval, a first memory for storing the digitized waveform, a second memory for storing a program for processing the digitized waveform, and a microprocessor capable of executing the stored program so as to determine an arrival time of the sonic signal arriving at the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1998Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Masafumi Fukuhara, Mauricio Tejada
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Patent number: 6147929Abstract: A method for planning continuity logging surveys and for detecting the presence of a continuous or discontinuous low-velocity inclusion in a subterranean geological formation. To detect the presence of a continuous or discontinuous low-velocity inclusion, a seismic source is inserted into a source borehole located at either a boundary or a center of a low velocity inclusion. Seismic energy is generated coupled to the low-velocity inclusion using the seismic source. The seismic energy propagates as seismic waves through the low-velocity inclusion and is measured and recorded by at least one detector disposed in a receiver borehole. The seismic waves are analyzed for the presence of at least one seismic signature from which the distance of a discontinuity, if any, of the low-velocity inclusion with respect to the receiver borehole can be determined.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1998Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Gas Research InstituteInventor: Jorge Octavio Parra
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Patent number: 6078869Abstract: A Petragrid method and apparatus generates grid cell property information that is adapted for use by a computer simulation apparatus. An interpretation workstation includes at least two software programs stored therein: a first program called "Petragrid" and a second simulation program for generating a set of simulation results for display. The first Petragrid software program will: receive well log and seismic data which indicates each layer of a formation, grid each layer of the formation where the grid is comprised of a plurality of cells, and generate more accurate data associated with each grid cell, such as the transmissibility. The more accurate data for each cell will be transmitted to the second simulation program which will respond by generating a set of more accurate simulation results for each cell of the grid, and overlaying the more accurate simulation result for each cell onto each of the corresponding cells of the grid being displayed on the workstation display by the Petragrid software.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1999Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Assignee: GeoQuest Corp.Inventor: Dayal L. Gunasekera
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Patent number: 6018497Abstract: A Petragrid method and apparatus generates grid cell property information that is adapted for use by a computer simulation apparatus which simulates properties of an earth formation located near one or more wellbores. An interpretation workstation includes at least two software programs stored therein: a first program called "Petragrid" and a second simulation program which is responsive to output data produced from the first "Petragrid" program for generating a set of simulation results. The set of simulation results are displayed on a workstation display monitor of the workstation. The first Petragrid software program will: receive well log and seismic data which indicates the location of each layer of a formation near a wellbore, and then grid each layer of the formation, the grid being comprised of a plurality of cells. The first Petragrid software will then generate more accurate data associated with each cell, such as the transmissibility of well fluid through each cell.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1997Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: GeoQuestInventor: Dayal L. Gunasekera
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Patent number: 5809163Abstract: A method of characterizing texture heterogeneities in a geological formation traversed by a borehole. The method records an image of the borehole wall such as that provided by Schlumberger's Formation Microscanner (FMS) apparatus, representative of variations in a physical parameter of the formation in the longitudinal direction of the borehole and around the periphery of the wall. Geological objects are extracted from the image corresponding to a determined morphological type of heterogeneity. The variation in at least one attribute defined for this type of heterogeneity in the longitudinal direction of the borehole is determined. The invention is particularly applicable to vug detection.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1995Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jean-Pierre Delhomme, Jean-Fran.cedilla.ois Rivest
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Patent number: 5594176Abstract: An ultrasonic scan assembly for use in inspecting downhole gas pipes comprises a sensor section which rotates in relation to an end section that remains essentially level forming a rotating interface. The sensor section includes at least one ultrasonic transducer for transmitting interrogating pulses into a pipe wall and for receiving return pulses that are analyzed for determining the maintenance and repair needs of the gas pipe. Provided in the scan assembly is a rotary transformer for magnetically coupling signals, such as return pulse data or power, across the rotating interface of the scan assembly. The rotary transformer includes a primary winding on one section of the scan assembly and a secondary winding on another section of the scan assembly. The primary windings and secondary windings associated with respective sections of the scan assembly can be placed in parallel or concentric relationship.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Assignee: Gas Research InstituteInventor: Karl F. Kiefer
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Patent number: 5519668Abstract: Methods for providing an image at the surface of a formation surrounding a borehole in real-time include associating resistivity measurements with a predetermined number of preselected toolface positions. The resistivity measurements are subjected to data compression and transmitted uphole by MWD telemetry. At the surface, the compressed resistivity measurements are associated with the preselected toolface positions and with a calculated translational distance value. The resistivity measurements are decompressed and/or converted to pixel information. The pixel information is arranged according to toolface position and translational distance to create a high resolution of the formation. These processes are repeated over time so that the image created represents the formation over a selected distance.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1994Date of Patent: May 21, 1996Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Bernard Montaron
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Patent number: 5239467Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method of processing and displaying geophysical data so as to enhance the evaluation and interpretation of subtle variations in the earth's geological and lithological structures. In particular, the dynamic range of geophysical data is compressed to more nearly approximate the inherent dynamic range limitations of visual displays of the geophysical data.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1992Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Assignee: Amoco CorporationInventors: Michael C. Kelly, Jean M. Rickert
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Patent number: 5237539Abstract: A system and method for processing and displaying well log data that provides real time and lag time data combined into a format which can be graphically printed using a printer interface to a computer during the drilling of an oil and gas well. Preselected monitors provide real time data such as weight on bit, mud pump pressure, revolutions per minute of the rotary table (drill string) and the like and lag data such as units of gas, porosity, and percent cut fluor. The monitored information is then processed by a microprocessor into digital real time textual data curves (CRVs) and digital lag textual data (LAG). These data are then processed by a central processing unit (CPU) of the system that automatically merges the CRV and LAG data, checks for completeness of file curve (curve and lag data), picks scales or enters user input scale and normalizes the data based on scale value, enters user comments for display, like change of mud weight, change of scale.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1991Date of Patent: August 17, 1993Inventor: Thomas H. Selman
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Patent number: 5179541Abstract: A system is provided for optimizing the output power of an acoustic wavetrain emitted from a transducer rotatably mounted in a downhole borehole televiewer for scanning the sidewall of the borehole. The purpose is to prevent destructive interference between the caudal portion of the outgoing wave train and the returning echo signals from the borehole sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1992Date of Patent: January 12, 1993Assignee: Western Atlas International, Inc.Inventor: Vincent C. Weido
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Patent number: 5164548Abstract: A borehole televiewer is modified to provide an improved signal-to-noise ratio by utilizing a series of receivers arranged in a planar array configuration with respect to a centrally located transmitting transducer. The array covers at least a 90.degree. quadrant of the tool, extending approximately 45.degree. on either side of the transducer to allow the receivers to capture all primarily reflected signals, both the specular component as well as the vertical and horizontal components of the scattered reflections. The signal-to-noise ratio is further enhanced by the use of a noise-dependent timing means, as well as signal conditioning and detection circuits for each of the receivers in the array.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1991Date of Patent: November 17, 1992Assignee: Chevron Research and Technology CompanyInventor: Jorg A. Angehrn
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Patent number: 5138585Abstract: A method is disclosed for using data from a borehole televiewer in an active well to determine fluid properties. That method involves determining the wall effects from the data, and factoring out the wall effects from the data to determine the fluid properties.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1990Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Assignee: Chevron Research & Technology CompanyInventors: Jorg A. Angehrn, Charles F. Magnani
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Patent number: 5134471Abstract: A borehole camera monitoring system comprises a camera head assembly adapted to be lowered into a borehole by means of a cable and control unit located above ground for generating a control signal for the operation of the camera. The camera head assembly comprises a fixed portion and a rotary portion containing the camera and associated equipment for examining the wall of the borehole. The fixed portion of the camera head assembly comprises a micro-controller for controlling the operation of the camera, a position encoder for detecting the angular rotation of the camera with respect to the fixed portion of the camera head assembly and a communication interface including means for multiplexing the video signal generated by the camera with an information signal generated by the micro-controller for transmission over the cable and means for extracting the control signal generated by the computer and transmitted over the cable.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1991Date of Patent: July 28, 1992Assignee: Noranda Inc.Inventors: Alain Gendron, Guy Chevrette, Pierre Senecal
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Patent number: 5121363Abstract: A method and apparatus by which fractured rock formations are identified and their orientation may be determined includes two orthogonal motion sensors which are used in conjunction with a downhole orbital vibrator. The downhole vibrator includes a device for orienting the sensors. The output of the sensors is displayed as a lissajou figure. The shape of the figure changes when a subsurface fracture is encountered in the borehole. The apparatus and method identifies fractures rock formations and enables the azimuthal orientation of the fractures to be determined.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1990Date of Patent: June 9, 1992Assignee: Conoco Inc.Inventor: William M. Benzing
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Patent number: 5038378Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for removing noise by smoothing fine resistivity measurements made with a tool from inside a borehole penetrating an earth formation. Pixel values representative of the resistivity measurements are examined to determine the directions of features in the measurements and a smoothing of the pixel values is then made along the measured directions. The orientations of the features are obtained with a similarlity investigation of pixels in sub-array windows along parallel lines whose slope is varied. Optimal slope lines along which the pixel values in a window best resemble each other are determined as the direction of the features. Smoothing is done along the optimal slope lines. Substantially noise free pixel measurements are obtained to enable subsequent automatic signal processing such as the detection of edges between layers of different resistivity. The edges are recorded with an emphasis on a visual display for enhanced visual analysis.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1988Date of Patent: August 6, 1991Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Min-Yi Chen
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Patent number: 4999817Abstract: A rotary ultrasonic transducer logging tool is set forth which has a transmitter connected to a transducer for transmitting pulses periodically, and a rotor with angle sensor connected thereto. One full revolution is divided into a specified number of incremental steps. The output of the receiver is supplied to an automatic gain control amplifier, then to an analog to digital converter. A gain control setting for the AGC amp is included. The AGC setting for the particular corresponding points in a first revolution of the transducer are used to provide settings for the AGC amplifier in the next revolution. A first buffer is used to store the data for the first revolution, a second buffer for the second revolution, and alternately back to the first buffer. These two buffers provide an output signal for a gain control buffer then input to the AGC amplifier. Alternate forms of gain control signal selection are used such as prior gain control settings.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1990Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Assignee: Halliburton Logging Services, Inc.Inventor: Mark D. Zimmer
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Patent number: 4991095Abstract: A process using a stored program processor for modeling a geologic volume which has inclined, stacked layers of sedimentary deposits. The process employs a model volume with layers of cells which are inclined and stacked analogous to the layers of sedimentary deposits. The cells are also arranged in vertical columns.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 1988Date of Patent: February 5, 1991Assignee: Stratamodel, Inc.Inventor: Donald C. Swanson
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Patent number: 4984221Abstract: A borehole televiewer employs a transducer energized by repetitive voltage pulses for generating pulses of acoustic energy for transmission to the walls of a borehole and for detecting direct reflections of acoustic energy from the borehole walls. A detector converts the acoustic energy reflections into reflection signals. Those reflection signals are applied along with a reference signal representing a desired constant level for the peak amplitude of the reflection signals to an error amplifier. The output of the error amplifier controls the voltage pulses utilized to energize the transducer so as to maintain a constant level of peak amplitude for the reflection signals produced from the detected acoustic energy direction reflections from the borehole wall.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1990Date of Patent: January 8, 1991Assignee: Mobil Oil CorporationInventor: Charles L. Dennis
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Patent number: 4969128Abstract: An elongated borehole logging tool employs an acoustic energy transducer for directing acoustic energy pulses toward a borehole wall at a repetition rate synchronized with rotational speed of the tool within the borehole.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1990Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Assignee: Mobil Oil CorporationInventors: Charles L. Dennis, Will K. Lenhardt
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Patent number: 4962490Abstract: A deviated borehole penetrating a subsurface formation and intersected by a formation fracture is surveyed with a borehole televiewer acoustic logging system. Relative fracture dip angle and dip direction calculated from such survey with respect to the borehole axis is transformed into a true fracture dip angle and dip direction with respect to the vertical of the earth's coordinate system.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1990Date of Patent: October 9, 1990Assignee: Mobil Oil CorporationInventors: W. D. Lyle, D. Michael Williams
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Patent number: 4916673Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing a signal generated by a borehole scanning system of the type in which periodic electrical firing pulses initiate a plurality of corresponding acoustic energy pulses which are transmitted from the central portion of the borehole toward the borehole wall in a plurality of radial directions and at a plurality of different depths, thereby generating reflected acoustic pulses which are detected and converted to electrical pulses. The electrical pulse is periodically sampled with each sample level being converted to a digital number. A counter initiates counting in response to the firing pulse preceding the sample electrical pulse. Upon detection of the peak of the electrical pulse, the counter count is stored. Upon detection of the electrical pulse again falling below a preselected level, the count is again stored. Then the time midway between the two stored counts is determined.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1988Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Assignee: Amoco CorporationInventors: Steven A. Morris, Houston B. Mount
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Patent number: 4870627Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for generating a quick look display of an acoustic investigation of a borehole wherein a parameter of interest is derived from vertically spaced sonic receivers and displayed in a laterally continuous display log where the parameter values from respective receivers are recorded at preassigned positions. A fracture sensitive parameter is measured such as the energy in a low frequency Stoneley wave and when the parameter values are laterally recorded areas indicative of fractures become visually enhanced particularly with a laterally expanded display log. Techniques for the detection and evaluation of fractures are described.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1984Date of Patent: September 26, 1989Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kai Hsu, Alain Brie, Richard A. Plumb
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Patent number: H1289Abstract: A method and an apparatus for recording the depth of a well logging apparatus is provided. The method and apparatus include the direct acquisition of broad depth information from the logging system conversion of the broad depth information to an acceptable digital signal and recording that signal on the audio track of a video cassette recorder. A microcontroller is used to convert broad depth information from either the logging system or the video cassette recorder (in the playback mode) to actual depth and depth rate for use by other displays and plotters.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1992Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Co.Inventor: Donald G. Kyle