Patents Assigned to INTELLISERV
  • Patent number: 7193527
    Abstract: A swivel assembly for a downhole tool string comprises a first and second coaxial housing cooperatively arranged. The first housing comprises a first transmission element in communication with surface equipment. The second housing comprises a second transmission element in communication with the first transmission element. The second housing further comprises a third transmission element adapted for communication with a network integrated into the downhole tool string. The second housing may be rotational and adapted to transmit a signal between the downhole network and the first housing. Electronic circuitry is in communication with at least one of the transmission elements. The electronic circuitry may be externally mounted to the first or second housing. Further, the electronic circuitry may be internally mounted in the second housing. The electronic circuitry may be disposed in a recess in either first or second housing of the swivel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David S. Pixton, Michael Briscoe, Kline Bradford, Michael Rawle, David B. Bartholomew, James McPherson
  • Publication number: 20070056723
    Abstract: A hanger mounted within a bore of a tubular string component has a split ring, a tapered key and a passageway formed in the hanger. The split ring has interfacial surfaces cooperating with interfacial surfaces of the tapered key. The bore may be located within a tubular string component selected from pipe, drill pipe, doubled shouldered pipe, single shouldered pipe, drill collars, reamers, production pipe, composite pipe, well casing, risers, underground utility lines, rotors, positive displacement rotors, jars, shock absorbers, heavy weight drill pipe, hammers, and turbines. A conduit or electronic equipment may be disposed within the passageway. The passageway may be formed in the tapered key or in the split ring. A transmission element may also be disposed within a groove formed in the hanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Publication date: March 15, 2007
    Applicant: INTELLISERV, INC.
    Inventors: David Hall, Michael Briscoe
  • Patent number: 7190280
    Abstract: A transmission line network system for transmitting and/or receiving data from a downhole tool. The invention is achieved by providing one or more transceiving elements, preferably rings, at either end of a downhole tool. A conduit containing a coaxial cable capable of communicating an electrical signal is attached to the transceiving element and extends through a central bore of the downhole tool and through the central bore of any tool intermediate the first transceiving element and a second transceiving element. Upon receiving an electrical signal from the cable, the second transceiving element may convert such signal to a magnetic field. The magnetic field may be detected by a third transceiving element in close proximity to the second transceiving element. In this manner, many different tools may be included in a downhole transmission network without requiring substantial modification, if any, of any particular tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox
  • Patent number: 7165633
    Abstract: A drilling fluid filter for placement within a bore wall of a tubular drill string component comprises a perforated receptacle with an open end and a closed end. A hanger for engagement with the bore wall is mounted at the open end of the perforated receptacle. A mandrel is adjacent and attached to the open end of the perforated receptacle. A linkage connects the mandrel to the hanger. The linkage may be selected from the group consisting of struts, articulated struts and cams. The mandrel operates on the hanger through the linkage to engage and disengage the drilling fluid filter from the tubular drill string component. The mandrel may have a stationary portion comprising a first attachment to the open end of the perforated receptacle and a telescoping adjustable portion comprising a second attachment to the linkage. The mandrel may also comprise a top-hole interface for top-hole equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox, Kory Garner
  • Patent number: 7142129
    Abstract: A method and system for use in synchronizing at least two clocks in a downhole network are disclosed. The method comprises determining a total signal latency between a controlling processing element and at least one downhole processing element in a downhole network and sending a synchronizing time over the downhole network to the at least one downhole processing element adjusted for the signal latency. Electronic time stamps may be used to measure latency between processing elements. A system for electrically synchronizing at least two clocks connected to a downhole network comprises a controlling processing element connected to a synchronizing clock in communication over a downhole network with at least one downhole processing element comprising at least one downhole clock. Preferably, the downhole network is integrated into a downhole tool string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David B. Bartholomew, Monte Johnson, Justin Moon, Roger O. Koehler
  • Patent number: 7139218
    Abstract: A high-speed downhole network providing real-time data from downhole components of a drilling strings includes a bottom-hole node interfacing to a bottom-hole assembly located proximate the bottom end of a drill string. A top-hole node is connected proximate the top end of the drill string. One or several intermediate nodes are located along the drill string between the bottom-hole node and the top-hole node. The intermediate nodes are configured to receive and transmit data packets transmitted between the bottom-hole node and the top-hole node. A communications link, integrated into the drill string, is used to operably connect the bottom-hole node, the intermediate nodes, and the top-hole node. In selected embodiments, a personal or other computer may be connected to the top-hole node, to analyze data received from the intermediate and bottom-hole nodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., Joe Fox, David S. Pixton
  • Patent number: 7135933
    Abstract: A system for setting and adjusting a frequency of electrical output pulses derived from an oscillator in a network is disclosed. The system comprises an accumulator module configured to receive pulses from an oscillator and to output an accumulated value. An adjustor module is configured to store an adjustor value used to correct local oscillator drift. A digital adder adds values from the accumulator module to values stored in the adjustor module and outputs their sums to the accumulator module, where they are stored. The digital adder also outputs an electrical pulse to a logic module. The logic module is in electrical communication with the adjustor module and the network. The logic module may change the value stored in the adjustor module to compensate for local oscillator drift or change the frequency of output pulses. The logic module may also keep time and calculate drift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventor: David B. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 7132904
    Abstract: An apparatus for electromagnetically connecting surface equipment to a rotating downhole tool string comprises a plurality of electrical conductors, first and second differential interfaces, and at least one electromagnetic shield. The plurality of electrical conductors have first ends terminating at the surface equipment and second ends terminating at the downhole tool string. The first differential interface is electrically connected to the first ends and the second differential interface is electrically connected to the second ends the electrical conductors. The first and second differential interfaces are adapted to transmit and receive a reference-independent differential signal. The electromagnetic shield surrounds and shields the electrical conductors and is connected to ground at one end. The apparatus is stationary relative to rotation of the tool string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Michael Rawle, David B. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 7123160
    Abstract: A method for triggering an action of at least one downhole device on a downhole network integrated into a downhole tool string synchronized to an event comprises determining latency, sending a latency adjusted signal, and performing the action. The latency is determined between a control device and the at least one downhole device. The latency adjusted signal for triggering an action is sent to the downhole device. The action is performed downhole synchronized to the event. A preferred method for determining latency comprises the steps: a control device sends a first signal to the downhole device; after receiving the signal, the downhole device sends a response signal to the control device; and the control device analyzes the time from sending the signal to receiving the response signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David B. Bartholomew, Monte L. Johnson, Justin Moon, Roger O. Koehler
  • Patent number: 7116199
    Abstract: An inductive coupler for downhole components. The inductive coupler includes an annular housing having a recess defined by a bottom portion and two opposing side wall portions. At least one side wall portion includes a lip extending toward but not reaching the other side wall portion. A plurality of generally U-shaped MCEI segments, preferably comprised of ferrite, are disposed in the recess and aligned so as to form a circular trough. The coupler further includes a conductor disposed within the circular trough and a polymer filling spaces between the segments, the annular housing and the conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Scott Dahlgren, Cameron Sneddon, Joe Fox, Michael A. Briscoe
  • Publication number: 20060214421
    Abstract: Threaded connections are provided with a thread form that permits the construction of enlarged root radii between adjacent threads. Relatively coarse thread leads formed along conical surfaces with relatively extended tapers cooperate with relatively tall thread heights and an enlarged root radius (or radii) to produce a fatigue resistant, rotary-shouldered connection that can be assembled with reasonably attainable high torque forces. The ratios between the thread lead, measured in threads per inch, as the numerator, and denominators comprising the untruncated thread height of the thread, and/or the root truncation and/or the root radius (or radii) are maintained at low values compared to those existing in conventional prior art connections. The ratio of the untruncated thread height to the root radius (or radii) is also retained at a relatively low value as compared to that existing in many prior art configurations. The connection design produces an unexpectedly high resistance to fatigue damage or failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Applicant: INTELLISERV
    Inventor: Andrei Muradov
  • Patent number: 7098802
    Abstract: A signal transmission connection for a tool string used in exploration and production of natural resources, namely: oil, gas, and geothermal energy resources. The connection comprises first and second annular elements deployed in cooperative association with each other. The respective elements comprise inductive transducers that are capable of two-way signal transmission between each other, with downhole components of the tool string, and with ground-level equipment. The respective inductive transducers comprise one or more conductive loops housed within ferrite troughs, or within ferrite trough segments. When energized, the conductive loops produce a magnetic field suitable for transmitting the signal. The second element may be rotational in drilling applications. The respective elements may be fitted with electronic equipment to aid and manipulate the transmission of the signal. The first element may also be in communication with the World Wide Web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Kline Bradford, Joe Fox, Michael Briscoe
  • Patent number: 7098767
    Abstract: The present invention includes an element for use in an inductive coupler in a downhole component. The element includes a plurality of ductile, generally U-shaped leaves that are electrically conductive. The leaves are less than about 0.0625? thick and are separated by an electrically insulating material. These leaves are aligned so as to form a generally circular trough. The invention also includes an inductive coupler for use in downhole components, the inductive coupler including an annular housing having a recess with a magnetically conductive, electrically insulating (MCEI) element disposed in the recess. The MCEI element includes a plurality of segments where each segment further includes a plurality of ductile, generally U-shaped electrically conductive leaves. Each leaf is less than about 0.0625? thick and separated from the otherwise adjacent leaves by electrically insulating material. The segments and leaves are aligned so as to form a generally circular trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Scott Dahlgren, Joe Fox, Cameron Sneddon
  • Patent number: 7093654
    Abstract: The present invention includes a downhole component adapted for transmitting downhole data. The downhole component includes a threaded end on a downhole component. The threaded end furthermore includes an interior region, and exterior region, and a mating surface wherein a cavity is formed. A data transmission element is disposed in the cavity and displaces a volume of the cavity. At least one passageway is formed in the threaded region between interior and exterior regions. The passageway is in fluid communication with both the interior and exterior regions and thereby relieves pressure build up of thread lubricant upon tool joint make up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David S. Pixton, Scott Dahlgren, Jay T. Reynolds, James W. Breihan, Michael A. Briscoe
  • Patent number: 7091810
    Abstract: An element for an inductive coupler in a downhole component comprises magnetically conductive material, which is disposed in a recess in annular housing. The magnetically conductive material forms a generally circular trough. The circular trough comprises an outer generally U-shaped surface, an inner generally U-shaped surface, and two generally planar surfaces joining the inner and outer surfaces. The element further comprises pressure relief grooves in at least one of the surfaces of the circular trough. The pressure relief grooves may be scored lines. Preferably the pressure relief grooves are parallel to the magnetic field generated by the magnetically conductive material. The magnetically conductive material is selected from the group consisting of soft iron, ferrite, a nickel iron alloy, a silicon iron alloy, a cobalt iron alloy, and a mu-metal. Preferably, the annular housing is a metal ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox
  • Patent number: 7080998
    Abstract: The invention is a seal system for a coaxial cable and is placed within the coaxial cable and its constituent components. A series of seal stacks including load ring components and elastomeric rings are placed on load bearing members within the coaxial cable sealing the annular space between the coaxial cable and an electrical contact passing there through. The coaxial cable is disposed within drilling components to transmit electrical signals between drilling components within a drill string. The seal system can be used in a variety of downhole components, such as sections of pipe in a drill string, drill collars, heavy weight drill pipe, and jars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Cameron Sneddon, Scott Steven Dahlgren, Michael A. Briscoe
  • Patent number: 7069999
    Abstract: A method for routing a transmission line through a tool joint having a primary and secondary shoulder, a central bore, and a longitudinal axis, includes drilling a straight channel, at a positive, nominal angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, through the tool joint from the secondary shoulder to a point proximate the inside wall of the centtral bore. The method further includes milling back, from within the central bore, a second channel to merge with the straight channel, thereby forming a continuous channel from the secondary shoulder to the central bore. In selected embodiments, drilling is accomplished by gun-drilling the straight channel. In other embodiments, the method includes tilting the tool joint before drilling to produce the positive, nominal angle. In selected embodiments, the positive, nominal angle is less than or equal to 15 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Michael Briscoe, Jay Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7064676
    Abstract: A system for transmitting data through a string of downhole components. In one aspect, the system includes first and second magnetically conductive, electrically insulating elements at both ends of the component. Each element includes a first U-shaped trough with a bottom, first and second sides and an opening between the two sides. Electrically conducting coils are located in each trough. An electrical conductor connects the coils in each component. In operation, a varying current applied to a first coil in one component generates a varying magnetic field in the first magnetically conductive, electrically insulating element, which varying magnetic field is conducted to and thereby produces a varying magnetic field in the second magnetically conductive, electrically insulating element of a connected component, which magnetic field thereby generates a varying electrical current in the second coil in the connected component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, H. Tracy Hall, Jr., David S Pixton, Scott Dahlgren, Joe Fox
  • Patent number: 7053788
    Abstract: A robust transmission element for transmitting information between downhole tools, such as sections of drill pipe, in the presence of hostile environmental conditions, such as heat, dirt, rocks, mud, fluids, lubricants, and the like. The transmission element maintains reliable connectivity between transmission elements, thereby providing an uninterrupted flow of information between drill string components. A transmission element is mounted within a recess proximate a mating surface of a downhole drilling component, such as a section of drill pipe. The transmission element may include an annular housing forming a trough, an electrical conductor disposed within the trough, and an MCEI material disposed between the annular housing and the electrical conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R Hall, Joe R Fox
  • Patent number: 7041908
    Abstract: The invention is a system for transmitting data through a string of downhole components. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the system includes a plurality of downhole components, such as sections of pipe in a drill string. Each component has a first and second end, with a first communication element located at the first end and a second communication element located at the second end. Each communication element includes a first contact and a second contact. The system also includes a coaxial cable running between the first and second communication elements, the coaxial cable having a conductive tube and a conductive core within it. The system also includes a first and second connector for connecting the first and second communication elements respectively to the coaxial cable. Each connector includes a conductive sleeve, lying concentrically within the conductive tube, which fits around and makes electrical contact with the conductive core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Tracy H. Hall, Jr., David S. Pixton, Scott Steven Dahlgren, Joe Fox, Cameron Sneddon, Michael A. Briscoe