Patents by Inventor Lara E. Heister

Lara E. Heister 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).

  • Methods For Containment and Improved Recovery in Heated Hydrocarbon Containing Formations By Optimal Placement of Fractures and Production Wells
    Publication number: 20130292114
    Abstract: A method for containing and capturing liquids and gases generated during in situ pyrolysis that migrate through pyrolysis generated or natural fractures includes placing a row of horizontal hydraulic fractures above and below the heated zone and completing production wells within the horizontal hydraulic fractures. The method serves at least two purposes: 1) provides a local zone of weak mechanical strength to blunt the propagation of vertical pyrolysis generated fractures and 2) provides a drainage point for fluids to relieve pressure in the formation and improve recovery. Preferably, the organic-rich rock formation is an oil shale formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: Michael W. Lin, Lara E. Heister, Nazish Hoda, William P. Meurer