Patents by Inventor Steven M. Hutchinson

Steven M. Hutchinson 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: 20240141768
    Abstract: A Dynamic Manifold Locking System (DMLS) enables remote-controlled disconnections and reconnections of pumping units from a pressurized (“hot”) fracking fluid manifold while the manifold remains pressurized and serving a well. The DMLS's connector assemblies integrate high-pressure and low-pressure connections, and remote testing of those connections, in order to enable the disconnections and reconnections of pumping units while the manifold remains pressurized. A Universal Positioning System (UPS) enables remote alignment and connection of two fluid connector assemblies integrated into the DMLS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2023
    Publication date: May 2, 2024
    Inventors: Matthew E. Kibler, Nicolas G. Snoke, Steven M. Hutchinson, Kyle W. Scholl, Srikar S. Nittala
  • Publication number: 20230272687
    Abstract: A remotely-operated fluid connection assembly to hold higher internal pressures in larger diameters. The assembly comprises a fluid connection adapter and a fluid connection housing assembly. When the adapter enters the housing assembly: (A) locking elements on the housing assembly constrict about the adapter; and (B) a first seal section on the adapter sealingly contacts a first seal bore on the housing assembly. Progressive engagement of a locking ring tightens the locking elements against the adapter. Internal pressure further tightens the adapter against the locking elements and the first seal section against the first seal bore. The fluid connection adapter also provides a release collar in adapter release embodiments. Extension of the locking ring away from the fluid connection housing during disengagement contacts the release collar and separates the fluid connection adapter from the fluid connection housing assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2023
    Publication date: August 31, 2023
    Inventors: Matthew E. Kibler, Kyle Scholl, Keith C. Johansen, Nicolas G. Snoke, Steven M. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 10794137
    Abstract: A remote operator interface and control unit configured to monitor status of, and control over, fluid connections at wellheads. Independent and concurrent status monitoring and control communication with fluid connections is provided at each of a plurality of wells. The operator interface and control unit allows a remote operator to lock and unlock fluid connection assemblies on wellheads, while at the same time viewing wellhead conditions accompanying such actions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: FHE USA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew E. Kibler, Kyle Scholl, Nicolas G. Snoke, Steven M. Hutchinson
  • Publication number: 20190338613
    Abstract: A remote operator interface and control unit configured to monitor status of, and control over, fluid connections at wellheads. Independent and concurrent status monitoring and control communication with fluid connections is provided at each of a plurality of wells. The operator interface and control unit allows a remote operator to lock and unlock fluid connection assemblies on wellheads, while at the same time viewing wellhead conditions accompanying such actions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2019
    Publication date: November 7, 2019
    Inventors: Matthew E. Kibler, Kyle Scholl, Nicolas G. Snoke, Steven M. Hutchinson