Abstract: A downhole signal generation system may include a main housing, a spring, and a valve plug configured to move along a central bore of the main housing between an open position and a closed position to selectively block fluid flow through the main housing. The downhole signal generation system may further include a ball housing insert with a ball slot and a ball release collar disposed about the ball housing insert. The downhole signal generation system may also include a latching feature configured to secure the valve plug to the ball housing insert with the ball release collar in a holding position, and to release the valve plug in response to the ball release collar moving to the release position. Moreover, the spring may be configured to drive the valve plug from the open position to the closed position in response to the latching feature releasing the valve plug.

Abstract: Disclosed is a downhole tool and method suitable for geosteering within a lateral formation. The downhole tool includes a gamma sensor for monitoring gamma radiation within the lateral formation. The method provides for monitoring of the location of the drill bit or a RSS within a borehole and correcting the angle of inclination to maintain the drill bit or RSS within the target zone of the lateral formation.

Abstract: A multi-activation reamer optionally includes modular activation and pulse confirmation blocks for activating the reamer and confirming activation. A reamer activation signal may be communicated downhole, optionally using an activation sequence of drill string flow and rotation detectable by downhole sensors. An on-board controller receives the activation signal and opens an activation flow path in the activation block to hydraulically actuate the reamer arms. A pulse flow path is also opened in the pulse confirmation block, optionally using pressure from the activation flow path. Flow along the pulse flow path is modulated to generate a flow pattern detectable uphole of the reamer to confirm activation of the reamer.

Abstract: A multi-activation reamer optionally includes modular activation and pulse confirmation blocks for activating the reamer and confirming activation. A reamer activation signal may be communicated downhole, optionally using an activation sequence of drill string flow and rotation detectable by downhole sensors. An on-board controller receives the activation signal and opens an activation flow path in the activation block to hydraulically actuate the reamer arms. A pulse flow path is also opened in the pulse confirmation block, optionally using pressure from the activation flow path. Flow along the pulse flow path is modulated to generate a flow pattern detectable uphole of the reamer to confirm activation of the reamer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a downhole tool and method suitable for geosteering within a lateral formation. The downhole tool includes a gamma sensor for monitoring gamma radiation within the lateral formation. The method provides for monitoring of the location of the drill bit or a RSS within a borehole and correcting the angle of inclination to maintain the drill bit or RSS within the target zone of the lateral formation.

Abstract: A process for fracturing a lined well uses a packer assembly in a liner string that provides a cement-free segment and interface with the formation. The device has multiple packers with inflatable elements that are run as an integral assembly. After the liner assembly is positioned, cement is circulated into the assembly and wiped from the interior of the liner string into the annulus. Pressure within the liner string is elevated to initiate time delays for the radial inflation of the packer elements. The inflation radially and axially displaces the cement surrounding the elements before the cement sets. Each packer is subsequently opened to expose the frac ports in the packer directly to the formation for frac operations.

Abstract: A drilling agitator tool, system and method facilitates axial movement of a drill string in a well. The tool has a valve assembly that provides pulses of fluid pressure in the drill string. A valve control assembly controls a frequency and pressure amplitude of the pulses induced by the valve assembly. The valve control assembly monitors real-time pressure and vibration levels of the drill string. An agitator assembly reciprocates in response to the pulses of fluid pressure to provide axial movement of the drill string in the well.

Abstract: A drill bit string has an internal steering module for measurement while drilling. A chassis is inserted into a modified drill collar from the axial end, rather than through the side. The chassis has external pockets machined into it from its outer diameter. The size of the longitudinally milled slots in the chassis is determined by the size of the components. The mud flow path is positioned off-center because of the component slots. The geometric shape of the flow path through the tool is shaped to optimize the flow area and maintain a wall thickness that can withstand the mud pressure. The wall thickness surrounding the flow area is proportional to the maximum hydrostatic pressure and the circulation pressure.

Abstract: A process for fracturing a lined well uses a packer assembly in a liner string that provides a cement-free segment and interface with the formation. The device has multiple packers with inflatable elements that are run as an integral assembly. After the liner assembly is positioned, cement is circulated into the assembly and wiped from the interior of the liner string into the annulus. Pressure within the liner string is elevated to initiate time delays for the radial inflation of the packer elements. The inflation radially and axially displaces the cement surrounding the elements before the cement sets. Each packer is subsequently opened to expose the frac ports in the packer directly to the formation for frac operations.

Abstract: A drill bit string has an internal steering module for measurement while drilling. A chassis is inserted into a modified drill collar from the axial end, rather than through the side. The chassis has external pockets machined into it from its outer diameter The size of the longitudinally milled slots in the chassis is determined by the size of the components. The mud flow path is positioned off-center because of the component slots. The geometric shape of the flow path through the tool is shaped to optimize the flow area and maintain a wall thickness that can withstand the mud pressure. The wall thickness surrounding the flow area is proportional to the maximum hydrostatic pressure and the circulation pressure.