Patents by Inventor Louis J. Wardlaw

Louis J. Wardlaw 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).

  • Publication number: 20160273464
    Abstract: An assembly for managing an engine in the presence of hydrocarbons may include a first hose, a second hose, a tank, a sensor, a shutoff valve, and a flapper valve. The first hose may provide pressurized air to the valve. The valve may be closed when receiving the pressurized air and opened when receiving pressurized air below a threshold. The tank may comprise carbon dioxide and may be connected to the valve. The second hose may provide the carbon dioxide from the valve to the manifold of the engine when the valve is opened. The sensor may be configured to detect the presence of hydrocarbons in the pressurized air. The shut off valve may be configured to reduce a pressure of the pressurized fluid at the valve when the sensor detects the presence of hydrocarbons. The flapper valve may provide air to a manifold of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 8436277
    Abstract: An emergency shut off system for a workspace enclosure, wherein a sensor array is provided for detecting hazardous conditions within the workspace enclosure. A control module is coupled to the sensor array. A pneumatic shutoff line is provided, extending between the control module and a hot work apparatus used in connection with the workspace enclosure. The hot work apparatus is responsive to pressurization of the pneumatic shutoff line to remain in an operational state. The control module is responsive to a signal from the sensor array indicating the existence of a hazardous condition inside the workspace enclosure to depressurize the pneumatic shutoff line. The hot work apparatus is responsive to depressurization of the shutoff line to be rendered non-operational.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Publication number: 20110204032
    Abstract: An emergency shut off system for a workspace enclosure, wherein a sensor array is provided for detecting hazardous conditions within the workspace enclosure. A control module is coupled to the sensor array. A pneumatic shutoff line is provided, extending between the control module and a hot work apparatus used in connection with the workspace enclosure. The hot work apparatus is responsive to pressurization of the pneumatic shutoff line to remain in an operational state. The control module is responsive to a signal from the sensor array indicating the existence of a hazardous condition inside the workspace enclosure to depressurize the pneumatic shutoff line. The hot work apparatus is responsive to depressurization of the shutoff line to be rendered non-operational. In one embodiment, an external sensor is provided for detecting a hazardous condition outside of the workspace enclosure. A second pneumatic shutoff line is provided between the control module and an intake blower for the workspace enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 7628532
    Abstract: In a method and system for testing the integrity of pressure vessels, or welds on flanges or the like, at elevated temperatures, a pressurized mixture of a gaseous environmentally safe composition is formed within an indicator chamber in a housing receiving a pressurized gas and containing a surface in the chamber upon which is placed an indicator composition including a marker component, whereby the marker component is carried by the carrier gas from within the chamber and through a conduit to the pressure vessel or weld area. The carrier gas and the indicator or marker component are injected in an area between the inner and outer weld of a terminal flange welded to a tubular pipe section or casing. The pressurized composition includes a marker component or sub-composition which is detected by a detection apparatus which scans the pressure vessel area to be tested, or weld area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Publication number: 20090134995
    Abstract: An emergency shut off system for a workspace enclosure system, wherein the shutoff system comprises an emergency shut-off module disposed within a workspace enclosure. A plurality of sensors are disposed within the workspace enclosure to detect the presence of undesirable gases or other undesirable conditions within the workspace enclosure. A control module external to the workspace enclosure is coupled to receive output signals from the plurality of sensors, and in response thereto to selective initiate a shut-down of operations taking place within the enclosure. In one example, the control module sends control signals to the emergency shut-off module causing the latter to close one or more valves restricting the flow of gases from external gas supply canisters. A blower is provided to create a flow of air into the enclosure, thereby maintaining a positive pressure within the enclosure. An air intake/sensor module is connected via a closed conduit or the like to the intake of the blower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw, III
  • Publication number: 20080282652
    Abstract: An inflatable modularly constructed for use over cites near welding or other operations upon, for example, one or more conduit members, in order to retain within the interior structure unwanted gases, flake, slags, sparks and other debris. The modules may be shaped and provided in such numbers as to provide a specific contour with each member being re-usable in combination with other members for subsequent operations. The modular members are selectively secured together so as to be substantially air tight to provide effective inflation of the unit. A framework may also be provided to assist in enhancing effective inflation during work operations. Fans and filter units may be provided for continuous inflation and to filter the intake inflation gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Publication number: 20080259991
    Abstract: In a method and system for testing the integrity of pressure vessels, or welds on flanges or the like, at elevated temperatures, a pressurized mixture of a gaseous environmentally safe composition is formed within an indicator chamber in a housing receiving a pressurized gas and containing a surface in the chamber upon which is placed an indicator composition including a marker component, whereby the marker component is carried by the carrier gas from within the chamber and through a conduit to the pressure vessel or weld area. The carrier gas and the indicator or marker component are injected in an area between the inner and outer weld of a terminal flange welded to a tubular pipe section or casing. The pressurized composition includes a marker component or sub-composition which is detected by a detection apparatus which scans the pressure vessel area to be tested, or weld area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Publication number: 20080076341
    Abstract: An enclosure and method of its use are disclosed. An inflatable body has a central opening at each end. First and second gloved armatures extend into the interior and for receipt of the hand of a human operator. A viewing section is disposed through the enclosure between the armatures for observing the operation. An inflation conduit may be received through the enclosure for initiating inflation. The openings are sealing secured against the conduit after the enclosure is inflated and the conduit properly inserted therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 7290609
    Abstract: A secondary plugging tool is disclosed for use in a subterranean plug, such as in a plugged and/or abandoned well. The repaired plug may be of a cementicious material, or a mechanically, hydraulically or electrically set plug or packer. The plugging tool includes an outer housing containing an eutectic metal alloy. A thermitic reaction charge is contained within chambers within an inner tubular member and a lower housing. The lower end of the outer housing being ported circumferentially there around, the thermitic reaction charge activates the eutectic metal charge such that the eutectic charge melts and pours out of the outer housing and across and upon the initial plug to repair any failure areas therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Cinaruco International S.A. Calle Aguilino de la Guardia
    Inventors: Louis J. Wardlaw, Jack Michael Fraelick, Manuel Eduardo Gonzalez, Robert B. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 7249630
    Abstract: A well tool and method for heating and depositing first and second charges of selective temperature melting metal alloys for repairing failure spots along a section of a tubular conduit, such as casing, in a subterranean well. A fuel charge is provided and is ignited to first melt the lower temperature melting metal alloy charge and thereafter the higher temperature metal alloy charge, such that a metal precipitate is formed from the heated higher temperature melting metal alloy charge. The housing defines a sacrificial wall which is opened or cleared as the higher temperature metal alloy charge melts, thus enabling the precipitate of the higher temperature melting alloy charge to be discharged from the housing to form a bridge for subsequent movements thereacross of the lower temperature melting alloy charge, into the well immediate the area of the failure spots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Cinaruco International S.A. Calle Aguilino de la Guardia
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 7124820
    Abstract: An exothermic well tool and method of use for the repair of failure spots along a section of a first tubular conduit, such as casing, wherein the housing of the tool is heated to at least a temperature approximately in excess of that required to activate and melt an exothermic metal alloy composition and may include an ignitable starter fuel charge with a series of solid activation fuel charges spaced throughout the chamber. The tool may also include a length of a second tubular conduit for positioning around the exterior of the housing to define an annular area relative to the first tubular conduit for deposit of a low temperature metal alloy therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 6758668
    Abstract: A preheating apparatus is disclosed which supports a hollow, cylindrical combustible heating element. A solid fuel mixture is used to generate hot gases for the heating of metal surfaces for pre-welding purposes. A grooveway is imbedded radially around the upper portion of the solid fuel mixture. An oxygen liberating pre-starter compound is housed in the grooveway for uniformity of ignition of the combustible solid fuel to permit a more uniform and consistent burn of the solid fuel during hot gas generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 6237689
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for confirming the integrity of a seal system extending between a conduit disposed within a subterranean well and a surface or top Christmas tree assembly such that the confirmation steps do not adversely thereafter effect the sealing integrity of the system when exposed to high pressure and/or temperature environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 5101604
    Abstract: A fluid transmission conduit welding habitat is provided, having an outer air supportable arcuate dome which is mounted over a point to entrap welding slag, sparks, and the like. A fire-resistant shield is disposed around the interior of the dome. Air supplied to the dome for selectively suspending the habitat. A conduit, filter, or the like is provided through the top of the dome to permit discharge of smoke including particulate matter resulting from the welding procedure. The air supply may be in alignment with the smoke discharge whereby the supply of air forms a carrier fluid for transmitting the smoke and particulate matter out of the dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Assignee: Hot Hed, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw, III
  • Patent number: 5018321
    Abstract: A subterranean well fluid transmission welding habitat is provided, having an outer air supportable arcuate dome which is mounted over the well entry point to entrap welding slag, sparks, and the like. A fire-resistant shield is disposed around the interior of the dome. Air supplied to the dome for selectively suspending the habitat. A conduit, filter, or the like is provided through the top of the dome to permit discharge of smoke including particulate matter resulting from the welding procedure. The air supply may be in alignment with the smoke discharge whereby the supply of air forms a carrier fluid for transmitting the smoke and particulate matter out of the dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Hot-Hed, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw, III
  • Patent number: 4711300
    Abstract: A cementing tool assembly comprises a float collar, a cementing plug, and a wiper plug having interconnecting locking ends. The cementing tool assembly is non rotatable in the casing and includes internal frangible cutters which are breakable in compression to aid the shredding of the cementing tool assembly upon completion of the cementing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventors: Louis J. Wardlaw, III, Joe A. Young
  • Patent number: 4596135
    Abstract: In a method for testing the integrity of welds at elevated temperatures, a pressurized gas mixture is injected in an area between the inner and outer weld of a terminal flange welded to a tubular pipe section or casing. The pressurized gas mixture includes a marker gas which is detected by a detection apparatus which scans the weld. The pressure of the gas mixture is also monitored to observe losses in pressure indicative of flaws in the welds. The integrity of the welds is tested at elevated temperature permitting remedial repairs to be made without reheating the tubular pipe or casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1986
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw, III
  • Patent number: 4585158
    Abstract: A method of welding using a preheating insert is disclosed. The method includes the steps of positioning and igniting a combustible solid fuel mixture within a pipe to preheat the pipe by convection to a proper temperature and welding the pipe. The preferred and illustrated embodiment incorporates an encircling bottom support having a centralized hollow tube. It is made of a frangible material to be easily broken should it fall into the pipe. It supports a hollow, cylindrical, combustible heating element. The heating element is made of thermite as an example. It includes a top located deflector plate to deflect hot gases flowing upwardly from combustion against the wall of a pipe to be heated. The apparatus is concentrically located within the pipe in the vicinity of the pipe section to be heated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1986
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw, III
  • Patent number: 4507082
    Abstract: A preheating insert is disclosed. The preferred and illustrated embodiment incorporates an encircling bottom support having a centralized hollow tube. It is made of a frangible material to be easily broken should it fall into the pipe. It supports a hollow, cylindrical, combustible heating element. The heating element is made of thermite as an example. It includes a top located deflector plate to deflect hot gases flowing upwardly from combustion against the wall of a pipe to be heated. The apparatus is concentrically located within the pipe in the vicinity of the pipe section to be heated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1985
    Inventor: Louis J. Wardlaw, III
  • Patent number: RE33656
    Abstract: A cementing tool assembly comprises a float collar, a cementing plug, and a wiper plug having interconnecting locking ends. The cementing tool assembly is non rotatable in the casing and includes internal frangible cutters which are breakable in compression to aid the shredding of the cementing tool assembly upon completion of the cementing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Inventors: Louis J. Wardlaw, III, Joe A. Young