Patents by Inventor Don Thornton Macune

Don Thornton Macune has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6157893
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for obtaining samples of pristine formation or formation fluid, using a work string designed for performing other downhole work such as drilling, workover operations, or re-entry operations. An extendable element extends against the formation wall to obtain the pristine formation or fluid sample. While the test tool is in a standby condition, the extendable element is withdrawn within the work string, protected by other structure from damage during operation of the work string. The test apparatus is mounted on a sliding, non-rotating, sleeve on the work string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Per Erik Berger, Don Thornton Macune
  • Patent number: 6047239
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for obtaining samples of pristine formation or formation fluid, using a work string designed for performing other downhole work such as drilling, workover operations, or re-entry operations. An extendable element extends against the formation wall to obtain the pristine formation or fluid sample. While the test tool is in standby condition, the extendable element is withdrawn within the work string, protected by other structure from damage during operation of the work string. The apparatus is used to sense or sample downhole conditions while using a work string, and the measurements or samples taken can be used to adjust working fluid properties without withdrawing the work string from the bore hole. When the extendable element is a packer, the apparatus can be used to prevent a kick from reaching the surface, adjust the density of the drilling fluid, and thereafter continuing use of the work string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Per Erik Berger, Nils Reimers, Don Thornton Macune
  • Patent number: 5803186
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for obtaining samples of pristine formation fluid, using a work string designed for performing other downhole work such as drilling, workover operations, or re-entry operations. An extendable element extends against the formation wall to obtain the pristine fluid sample. While the test tool is in a standby condition, the extendable element is withdrawn within the work string, protected by other structure from damage during operation of the work string. The apparatus is used to sense downhole conditions while using a work string, and the measurements taken can be used to adjust working fluid properties without withdrawing the work string from the bore hole. When the extendable element is a packer, the apparatus can be used to prevent a kick from reaching the surface, adjust the density of the drilling fluid, and thereafter continuing use of the work string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Per Erik Berger, Nils Reimers, Don Thornton Macune