Patents Issued in September 18, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030173079
    Abstract: The invention relates to the oil industry and can be used for testing the intake capacity of a well and perform an action on a bottom zone thereof. Said invention makes it possible to increase the number of measured parameters and improve the accuracy of characterisation of the well, the well bottom zone and a formation. The inventive method consists in performing a pulse nonstationary injection of a reagent and measuring the injection pressure and the reagent flow on the measuring section of an injection line before the wellhead. A cumulative consumption of work supplied for nonstationary flow of the reagent consumption unit in the well bottom zone is defined. Skin-effect factor is calculated taking into consideration the current conductivity of the formation. The injection mode is modified when required filtration properties of the bottom well zone determined according to the skin-effect are obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Andrey Yegorovich Chikin
  • Publication number: 20030173080
    Abstract: A oil shale formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat sources may be used to heat the formation. The heat sources may be positioned within the formation in a selected pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Ilya Emil Berchenko, Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, Thomas David Fowler, John Michael Karanikas, Robert Charles Ryan, Gordon Thomas Shahin, George Leo Stegemeier, Harold J. Vinegar, Scott Lee Wellington, Etuan Zhang
  • Publication number: 20030173081
    Abstract: An in situ process for treating an oil containing formation is provided. The process may include providing heat from one or more heaters to at least a portion of the formation. The heat may be allowed to transfer from the one or more heaters to a part of the formation such that heat from the one or more heat sources pyrolyzes at least some hydrocarbons within the part. Hydrocarbons may be produced from the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Ilya Emil Berchenko, Eric P. de Rouffignac, Thomas David Fowler, Robert Charles Ryan, Scott Lee Wellington, Etuan Zhang
  • Publication number: 20030173082
    Abstract: An in situ process for treating a diatomite formation is provided. The process may include providing heat from one or more heaters to at least a portion of the formation. The heat may be allowed to transfer from the one or more heaters to a part of the formation such that heat from the one or more heat sources pyrolyzes at least some hydrocarbons within the part. Hydrocarbons may be produced from the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Ilya Emil Berchenko, Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, John Michael Karanikas, Kevin Albert Maher, George Leo Stegemeier, Gordon Thomas Shahin,, Scott Lee Wellington
  • Publication number: 20030173083
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved well cementing compositions for use in cold environment, where the circulating temperature of the cement is typically within the range of 5 to 20° C. The improved well cementing compositions are essentially comprised of an aqueous fluid, a hydraulic cement binder and a set-accelerating admixture comprising an alkali or alkaline earth metal nitrate and an alkali or alkaline earth metal nitrite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Jack Maberry, Greg Garrison, Stephan Harris, Andre Garnier
  • Publication number: 20030173084
    Abstract: A system for retrieving stray radioactive marker bullets from a borehole in a subterranean formation during placement of the radioactive marker bullets in the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Mehmet Fidan
  • Publication number: 20030173085
    Abstract: A method for treating a coal formation to alter properties of coal in the formation is provided. In one embodiment, heat from one or more heaters may be provided to at least a portion of the formation. Heat may be allowed to transfer from the one or more heaters to a part of the formation. In certain embodiments, the heat from the one or more heaters may pyrolyze at least some hydrocarbons within the part of the formation. The method may include producing a fluid from the formation. In some embodiments, the produced fluid may include at least some pyrolyzed hydrocarbons from the formation. In an embodiment, after at least some coal has been treated at least a portion of such coal may be produced from the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Kevin Albert Maher, Scott Lee Wellington
  • Publication number: 20030173086
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides a method and apparatus for injecting a compressible fluid at a controlled flow rate into a geological formation at multiple zones of interest. In one aspect, the invention provides a tubing string with a pocket and a nozzle at each isolated zone. The nozzle permits a predetermined, controlled flow rate to be maintained at higher annulus to tubing pressure ratios. The nozzle includes a diffuser portion to recover lost steam pressure associated with critical flow as the steam exits the nozzle and enters a formation via perforations in wellbore casing. In another aspect, the invention ensures steam is injected into a formation in a predetermined proportion of water and vapor by providing a plurality of apertures between a tubing wall and a pocket. The apertures provide distribution of steam that maintains a relative mixture of water and vapor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: William F. Howard, Jackie C. Sims, Dudley L. Robinson, Ronald W. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20030173087
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for the inhibition of salt formation in oil and gas wells are disclosed. In particular, nitrilotriacetamide and its salts are effective at treating existing salt formations, and in inhibiting formation of new deposits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: BJ SERVICES COMPANY
    Inventor: Joseph W. KIRK
  • Publication number: 20030173088
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for drilling a well bore in a hydrocarbon formation using concentric drill string having an inner pipe and an outer pipe defining an annulus there between. A drilling means such as an air hammer or a rotary drill bit and driving system is provide at the lower end of the concentric drill string and drilling medium is delivered through the annulus or inner pipe for operating the drilling means to form a borehole. Drilling medium, drilling cutting and hydrocarbon are removed from the well bore by extracting the drilling medium, drilling cutting and hydrocarbon through the other of the annulus or inner pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: James I. Livingstone
  • Publication number: 20030173089
    Abstract: A full bore selective location and orientation system includes a nipple installable in a tubular string and having internal location and orientation features of known configuration and a locating device runable within the tubular string and having location and orientation features engageable with said internal features of said nipple. A method of locating and orientating a downhole tool including installing a tubular nipple having a particular inside dimensions configuration in a tubular string running a locating device having a complementary outside dimensions configuration to engage with said inside dimensions configuration and rotating said locating device to a position where a biased member extends from said locating device into a recess in said tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: David J. Westgard, Luca Varchetta
  • Publication number: 20030173090
    Abstract: An expansion mandrel includes a lubrication system for lubricating the trailing edge portion of the interface between the expansion mandrel and a tubular member during the radial expansion of the tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Shell Oil Co.
    Inventors: Robert Lance Cook, David Paul Brisco, R. Bruce Stewart, Reece E. Wyant, Lev Ring, James Jang Woo Nahm, Richard Carl Haut, Robert Donald Mack, Alan B. Duell, Andrei Gregory Filippov
  • Publication number: 20030173091
    Abstract: An interventionless bi-directional barrier device of a downhole tool for use in a wellbore and a method of utilizing the barrier device to control the flow of production fluids in the wellbore are described herein. The barrier device includes a flapper mechanism having first and second flappers articulably linked together and articulably linked to a base member that is slidable within the downhole tool. The flapper mechanism provides a seal between opposing uphole- and downhole ends of the downhole tool upon actuation thereof. The method of controlling the flow of production fluids in the wellbore includes closing the barrier device to block flow through the tool, supporting the barrier device from a pressure exerted from a first direction, and supporting the barrier device from a pressure exerted from a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Benjamin Horne, David Cameron
  • Publication number: 20030173092
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sealing well bores is disclosed. The apparatus comprises plates which initially have a width smaller than the diameter of the well bore to be sealed or plugged. The plates are fabricated from a mineral substance which has the property of swelling into an expanded state upon contact with and absorption of a liquid. The apparatus further comprises means for placing the plate within the well bore. Among the mineral substances which may be utilized for forming the plate are members of the group of clay minerals known as smectites, including sodium montmorillonite, calcium montmorillonite, sodium bentonite, and calcium bentonite. A method sealing a well bore with the apparatus is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Mary Jane Wilson, Jesse D. Frederick, Fredrick Woody
  • Publication number: 20030173093
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fire extinguisher with a compressed gas generator for fighting fires and nascent explosions, which has two bursting membranes with predetermined breaking points for closing the fire extinguishing material container. In accordance with the invention, the predetermined breaking points of the bursting membranes are designed with differences in resistance in order to achieve a time delay between the breaking occurrences of the two predetermined breaking points. This ensures a non-deformed and rotationally symmetrical expulsion of the fire extinguishing material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Karl Bauer, Joachim Sans, Steffen Schilling
  • Publication number: 20030173094
    Abstract: A removable protector for protecting a thermally responsive member of a sprinkler head includes first and second shields each having protective surfaces. The protective surfaces are positioned to protect portions of the thermally responsive members that are exposed to potential contact with objects that are external to the sprinkler head. Each of the shields has a receiving end which slides over the sprinkler head during attachment of the protector. Each of the shields also has a connecting end attached to a cross member which connects the two shields and which provides an appropriate amount of spacing between the shields to permit clearance for accommodating various sprinkler head components when the protector is attached to the sprinkler head. A releasable fastener attaches the protector to the sprinkler head and secures the major protective surfaces of the first and second shields proximate the exposed portion of the thermally responsive member of the sprinkler head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Chris A. Vinson, Thomas E. Dorich
  • Publication number: 20030173095
    Abstract: A post driving implement for use with a vehicle, such as a tractor or a skid loader, is disclosed. The post driving implement is comprised of a hammer, a hammer channel, and a hammer cylinder. The hammer travels longitudinally within the hammer channel and is lifted by the hammer cylinder mounted to a closed end of the hammer channel. The hammer cylinder and its associated plumbing is of sufficient size to function as a hydraulic reservoir for the post driving implement, thus eliminating the need for a third hydraulic line to the reservoir on the vehicle and to avoiding need for alteration of the vehicle's reservoir. The post driving implement of the present invention may also include a back plate for mounting the implement to a vehicle. Additionally, the post driving implement may include adjustment mechanisms to vary the positional and angular relationship between the vehicle and the implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Neil Boley, Archie Carrico
  • Publication number: 20030173096
    Abstract: A rotary motor driven tool comprising a motor, and a driven part, the motor being adapted to rotate the driven part, and a torque limiting device adapted to limit torque output of the driven part to a maximum output torque magnitude, wherein the tool further includes a switching apparatus which operates automatically to initiate switching of the maximum output torque set by the torque limiting device from a first lower magnitude to a second higher magnitude when a predetermined threshold is reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Joel Setton, Philippe Fort
  • Publication number: 20030173097
    Abstract: The invention is based on a hand power tool having a tool mount capable of being driving in an at least rotating fashion via a drive motor and a drilling spindle (13), which said tool mount comprises a clamping device for securing tools that is capable of being operated in the direction of rotation of the drilling spindle (13), and having an arresting mechanism (38), via which the drilling spindle (13) can be coupled in torsion-resistant fashion relative to a part (27) of the machine housing (26) to tighten and loosen the clamping device of the tool mount (12), and which opens automatically when torque is transferred from the drive motor to the tool mount (12) and locks automatically when torque is transferred from the tool mount (12) to the drive motor. The arresting mechanism (38) is located on an intermediate shaft (17) and combined with a safety clutch (58) that is also located on the intermediate shaft (17) (FIG. 2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Peter Holzer, Robert Simm
  • Publication number: 20030173098
    Abstract: A hand held portable multipurpose demolition tool is powered by bottled compressed gas operating a pneumatic impact mechanism with interchangeable tools. The compressed gas, gas supply pressure and gas flow rate are variable allowing application of the tool to a large variety of demolition, construction, forcible entry, and ancillary functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Evergreen Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin R. Miner, David J. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20030173099
    Abstract: An electrically conductive inside structure of a standing wave barrier surrounds a section of a conductor in a sub-region. It can be displaceably arranged on the conductor section and galvanically separated from it but can be inductively coupled to it. A basic wave trap surrounds the inside structure on a part of its length. It is galvanically connected to the inside structure and to a capacitor. The capacitor is galvanically connected to the inside structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Arne Reykowski
  • Publication number: 20030173100
    Abstract: A combination EMI shielding and environmental sealing gasket construction and method for its manufacture. The gasket includes at least one electrically-conductive EMI shielding gasket member, and at least one environmental sealing gasket member. The shielding gasket member, which may be in the form of a strip, has a lengthwise extent and an outer periphery having interstitial spaces, such as between the fibers of a metal wire or other fiber mesh or fabric, through a widthwise extent thereof. The sealing gasket member extends along the lengthwise extent of the shielding gasket member and is formed, such as by being dispensed to foam or otherwise formed-in-place along an adjacent side of the strip, of an elastomeric foam or other material which penetrates into at least a portion of the interstitial spaces of the shielding gasket member to bond the shielding gasket member and the sealing gasket member into an integral structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Brian F. Flaherty, Jonathan E. Mitchel, John M. Perkins, Ronald P. Romano
  • Publication number: 20030173101
    Abstract: An optical linkage device includes a trimmable resistance for controlling output characteristics of a laser diode; a board having the trimmable resistance mounted thereon; and a case at least covering the board, the case provided with an adjustment hole for adjustment of a resistance value of the trimmable resistance. This arrangement permits the adjustment of the output of the laser diode to be performed with the case fixed to place. Thus is provided the optical linkage device capable of maintaining a more stable product quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Yasuyuki Kawanishi
  • Publication number: 20030173102
    Abstract: A protector 10 is secured to a vehicle body member by clips 12. A wire harness is inserted into a protector body 11 having a concave configuration in cross section and an opening at an upper side. At least one of the clips 12 is separate from the protector body 11. The clip 12 includes a base plate 12e, a pole 12d projecting from the base plate 12e, and a pair of engaging wings provided on the top of the pole 12d. The protector body 11 includes a guide frame 17 having a U-shaped cross section on each of its opposite sidewalls. The guide frames 17 oppose one another. The opposite ends of the base plate 12e of the clip 12 are slidably inserted into the guide frames 17. The ends close the opening in the protector body 11 and adjust a position of the clip with respect to an engaging hole in the vehicle body member. The protector 10 includes a plurality of thin hinges 16 so that the protector 10 can be bent at plural positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Hidenori Kishizawa
  • Publication number: 20030173103
    Abstract: Electrical connection of superconducting lines can be achieved by using a low-melting point metal, by mechanical contact of superconducting lines or by welding. According to these methods, however, critical current and critical magnetic field at the connection point are low, and stable connection in a superconducting state has been difficult. The present invention solves these problems and provides a structure and method for connecting superconducting lines. The present invention provides high-performance, high-stability connection of superconducting lines through magnesium diboride (MgB2) powder arranged between superconducting lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Morita, Kazuhide Tanaka, Yasuo Suzuki, Michiya Okada
  • Publication number: 20030173104
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing a cable, particularly for medium or high voltage electrical power transmission or distribution, said process comprising the step of making at least one coating of said cable from an oriented thermoplastic polymeric material, said thermoplastic polymeric material comprising a homopolymer of propylene or a copolymer of propylene and selected olefinic comonomer. In detail, this process comprises the steps of feeding at least one conductor of said cable to an extruding machine, extruding said at least one coating into a position radially external to said at least one conductor, orienting said at least one coating during said extrusion step. The present invention also relates to a cable, particularly for medium or high voltage electrical power transmission or distribution, provided with a coating of oriented thermoplastic polymeric material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Gaia Dell'Anna, Cristiana Scelza, Luca Catellani, Alberto Bareggi, Enrico Albizzati
  • Publication number: 20030173105
    Abstract: In a manufacturing method of a rigid-flexible printed circuit board, slits for defining two sides of a removing portion are formed in a part of plural resin films, and the plural resin films are stacked and bonded to form a circuit board. Then, a product portion is cut from the circuit board. Before the bonding, a separation sheet is disposed between predetermined adjacent layers of the plural resin films to separate the removing portion from a residual portion of the product portion. Accordingly, while the product portion is cut from the circuit board, the removing portion is separated from the product portion, because the removing portion are defined by the separation sheet, the slits, and a cutting outline of the product portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Koji Kondo, Satoshi Takeuchi, Tomohiro Yokochi, Katsumi Yamazaki, Masakazu Terada
  • Publication number: 20030173106
    Abstract: A simplified manufacturing process for fabricating transparent conductive panels with a low contact surface impedance employs a yellow light and etching technique to form a wiring structure on a single layer transparent conductive film that requires high transparency, and form a wiring structure on a double layer metal film and transparent conductive film for a connecting area to externally connect to a driver circuit. The invention can achieve a higher reliability and lower cost in the processes of fabricating high resolution products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Chin-Pei Hwang
  • Publication number: 20030173107
    Abstract: A connection component including a flexible substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface, a layer of a compliant, dielectric material overlying the top surface of the substrate, the compliant material layer having a top surface remote from the substrate, an array of flexible, conductive leads having first ends attached to terminals accessible at the second surface of the substrate and second ends adjacent the top surface of the compliant layer, wherein each the lead comprises a core of a first conductive material surrounded by a layer of a second conductive material, the second conductive material having a greater yield strength than the first conductive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Tessera, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Smith, Bruce McWilliams
  • Publication number: 20030173108
    Abstract: A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor chip on which bumps are formed; and a substrate on which the semiconductor chip is mounted, the substrate including an interconnecting line to which each of the bumps is bonded. Surfaces of the bumps and a surface of the interconnecting line are formed of the same metal, and the interconnecting line is formed of a metal softer than nickel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Michiyoshi Takano
  • Publication number: 20030173109
    Abstract: A printed circuit board unit comprises an insulated film disposed between a printed circuit board and an electronic component so as to define a through hole for receiving the solder bump. The through hole may be designed to form a constriction in the solder bump. Electric connection can reliably be established between the printed circuit board and the electronic component since the solder bump is allowed to penetrate through the through hole in the insulated film. When the insulated film is brought away from the printed circuit board, the insulated film serves to tear the solder bump in two pieces at the constriction, so that the electronic component can easily be detached from the printed circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Mitsuo Suehiro
  • Publication number: 20030173110
    Abstract: Apparatus (20) for injection of a substance (28) through the stratum corneum of skin (26) is provided. The apparatus includes a reservoir (42), containing the substance. The reservoir preferably has at least one outlet. A pressure generator (22) applies a pressure to eject the substance through the at least one outlet. One or more electrodes (32, 34) in a vicinity of the outlet are placed on the skin. Energy is conveyed through the electrodes to the skin, to facilitate passage of the substance through the stratum corneum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Yosef Gross, Zohar Avrahami
  • Publication number: 20030173111
    Abstract: An electronic assembly includes one or more conductive clamps (302, 304, FIG. 3), which are used to supply current to an integrated circuit (IC) package (308). The conductive clamps are attached to a printed circuit (PC) board (312), which supplies the current to the IC package over one clamp, and receives returned current from the IC package over another clamp. Each clamp contacts a contact pad (330) on the surface of the PC board, and contacts another contact pad (334) on the top surface of the IC package. Vias (338, 339) and conductive planes (340, 342) within the package then carry current to and from an IC (e.g., IC 306) connected to the package. In another embodiment, the clamp (904, FIG. 9) holds a conductive structure (902) in place between the PC board contact pad (908) and the IC package contact pad (914), and current is carried primarily over the conductive structure, rather than over the clamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Kristopher Frutschy, Glenn E. Stewart, Farzaneh Yahvaei-Moayyed, Geoffrey L. Reid
  • Publication number: 20030173112
    Abstract: A shielded interconnect bus crossover useful in interconnecting MEM devices with control signal sources or the like and a method of fabricating such a shielded interconnect bus crossover are disclosed. In one embodiment, a shielded interconnect bus crossover (10) includes a plurality of base pads (44A-C) and a plurality of support columns (74) extending upward from the base pads (44A-C) through holes formed in an interconnect bus shield (78) overlying a plurality of interconnect bus lines (42). The support columns (74) support a two layer elevated crossing line (92/112) in a spaced relation above the interconnect bus shield (78). The two layer elevated crossing line (92/112) is oriented transverse to the direction of the interconnect bus lines (42) and is located within the perimeter of a two layer rectangular crossing line shield wall (96/116).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen Matthew Barnes, Murray Steven Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20030173113
    Abstract: A system and method provide for electronic development of a bore plan for use in connection with an underground boring machine. Electronically developing a bore plan involves providing topographical information representative of topography of the bore site and providing bore path information representative of an intended bore path for the bore site. The bore path information includes at least two target points through which the intended bore path is to pass. The intended bore path can define a pilot bore path or a backream path. The target points comprise an entry point and an exit point, and each of the target points is defined by at least a distance value, lateral value, and a depth value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Kevin L. Alft, Fred G. Delonti, Christopher Dean Rettig, Paul A. Cartwright
  • Publication number: 20030173114
    Abstract: Enhanced stabilization is provided for an eccentric reaming tool when a pilot borehole is undersized with respect to a following pilot stabilization pad (PSP). Alternatively, offset of a rotational axis of at least a portion of the assembly including the reaming tool is employed to accomplish stabilization of the reaming tool. In either case, a reamed diameter larger than a physical diameter of the reaming tool may be drilled. More specifically, an enlarged PSP relative to pilot bit diameter or PSP offset or even pilot bit offset is employed in order to engage a PSP with the wall of a pilot borehole of greater diameter than a physical diameter of the pilot bit. The PSP or pilot drill bit, or both, may be laterally offset, angularly offset, or a combination thereof in order to effect substantially continuous PSP contact with the pilot borehole wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: W. Gregory Presley, Christopher S. Charles, D. Jay Clinkscales, Jeffrey B. Lund, Matthew J. Meiners, Steven R. Radford, Robert A. Laing, Matthew D. Mumma
  • Publication number: 20030173115
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for use in a well borehole drilled into a formation. The apparatus comprises a work string disposed in the borehole. The work string includes at least one modular body portion having at least one receptacle. A modular tool is disposed in the at least one receptacle for carrying out a drilling operation. The modular tool may be a tool for use in drilling a well borehole, it may be a tool for testing a formation surrounding a borehole, or the modular tool may be a combination. For example, one aspect of the present invention provides a modular steering rib. The modular steering rib may also include modular components for sampling and testing formation fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Inc.
    Inventors: Volker Krueger, Wolfgang Herberg, Gunnar Bothmann, Matthias Meister, Sven Krueger
  • Publication number: 20030173116
    Abstract: A core bit for cutting core samples in subterranean formations. The core bit has interior geometric features configured to control the quantity of drilling fluid, or flow split, flowing into a narrow annulus defined by an inside diameter of the core bit and an outside diameter of a core shoe. Reducing the flow split minimizes fluid invasion of a core being cut; thus, the core bit provides increased core quality and recoverability. The core bit is also adaptable for use with conventional core barrel assemblies and conventional coring techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Michael R. Wells, Luc Van Puymbroeck, Holger Stibbe
  • Publication number: 20030173117
    Abstract: A rotary slip for supporting a drill string having a plurality of slip segments connected to define an opening for insertion of the drill string, wherein each slip segment comprises a head region, a toe region, and an inner radial surface axially extending between the head and toe regions, and wherein the inner radial surface of each slip segment comprises a circumferential groove. A plurality of axially aligned drill string gripping inserts are attached to each slip segment between the head region and the circumferential groove, wherein each insert comprises a gripping surface for contacting the drill string. A load ring is disposed within the circumferential groove of each slip element, the load ring comprising at least one securing element which is engaged by one of the plurality of axially aligned inserts to secure the load ring within the circumferential groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: David Mason, Albert De Pont, Hans Van Rijzingen, Anton Krijnen, Cornelis De Laat
  • Publication number: 20030173118
    Abstract: A method for selectively printing different messages on labels printed by an in-store scale involves providing an in-store scale including a label printing mechanism with a supply of labels and a communications link for receiving information from a site external to the store. The scale label printing mechanism is configured in a first state and, during the first state, simultaneous printing of two types of information on a first label takes place. In particular, both (i) product information for a specified product to which the first label will be applied and (ii) a first message pertaining to a product which is different than the specified product to which the first label will be applied, are printed on the first label. The in-store scale receives a message control signal via the communications link which configures the scale label printing mechanism in a second state. During the second state, simultaneous printing of two types of information on a second label takes place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Robert J. Schuller
  • Publication number: 20030173119
    Abstract: In a method for manufacturing an annular scale from a measuring strip, the ends of a measuring strip are welded together, and the shortening of the scale-division marks in the joint region caused by the welding operation is compensated by a subsequent rolling operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Dieter Spark, Kurt Feichtinger
  • Publication number: 20030173120
    Abstract: This invention describes an occupant size and weight detection device consisting of a combination of force/load sensors (1), a head position sensor (2, 3), a multidirectional acceleration sensor (5), and a seat position sensor (4) used to determine the weight of an occupant based on weight distribution, body angle and foot position. The goal of the invention is to determine the weight of an occupant who is sitting in the front seat of a vehicle that is subjected to the dynamic forces resulting from the vehicle moving. This technology can be used in applications such as automotive occupant weight and position sensing for use with safety devices such as airbags.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Kristopher L. Desrochers, Brian Johnson, Fakhri Karray, Otman Adam Basir, Vladimir Filippov
  • Publication number: 20030173121
    Abstract: A digitizer pen system including: a pen having an elongated body terminating in a writing tip and at least one ultrasound transducer deployed adjacent to the writing tip. The digitizer pen also includes a writing element removably inserted into the writing tip. The writing element has an end protruding from the writing tip. The digitizer pen also includes an extraction tool including a plurality of flexible leaves deployed around a central position. The flexible leaves are spaced such that, when the extraction tool is pressed onto the protruding end of the writing element, the flexible leaves grip the protruding end so as to facilitate extraction of the writing element. The elongated body has a main grip surface. The elongated body includes at least one radial projection located between the ultrasound transducer and the main grip surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Pegasus Technologies Ltd
    Inventors: Yitzhak Zloter, Gideon Shenholz
  • Publication number: 20030173122
    Abstract: A motorized golf cart includes a motor for driving the golf cart, a driven actuator, and a first hitching device, the actuator connected to the first hitching device for moving the first hitching device between a first position and a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Robert P. Cassoni
  • Publication number: 20030173123
    Abstract: In a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) employing a hybrid system using both an internal combustion engine and a second motor/generator as a propelling power source for vehicle propulsion, and also employing a first generator driven by the engine for power generation, an integrated HEV control system is provided to control the engine, and the first and second motor/generators. The integrated HEV control system permits operation of only the second motor/generator as the propelling power source to establish a motor propelled vehicle driving mode and simultaneously basically inhibits operation of the engine, when satisfying at least a condition that the engine misfire occurs. If a power generation requirement or a battery recharge requirement is present during the misfire period, operation of the engine is temporarily permitted for driving the first motor/generator only for a battery recharge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jun Nakanowatari
  • Publication number: 20030173124
    Abstract: In an auxiliary machine drive system of an automatic engine stop-restart system equipped automotive vehicle capable of automatically stopping or restarting an engine depending on vehicle operating conditions, an electromagnetic clutch is disposed between the engine and at least one auxiliary machine for connecting and disconnecting an engine crankshaft to and from the auxiliary machine. An electromagnetic clutch control unit deenergizes the electromagnetic clutch at least in an engine running state, and energizes it only when a predetermined energizing condition is satisfied. The predetermined energizing condition includes at least an engine stopped state. The electromagnetic clutch is comprised of a normally-engaged electromagnetic clutch that is engaged when deenergized, and disengaged when energized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Okada, Shuji Iwao
  • Publication number: 20030173125
    Abstract: A driving power control device for a hybrid vehicle controls the engagement state of a lockup clutch so that high efficiency in regeneration is obtainable. The driving power control device for a hybrid vehicle comprises an engine and a motor-generator as power sources, an automatic transmission disposed between the power sources and driving wheels with an intervening torque converter having a lockup clutch, and an ECU for controlling selection of the power sources and for controlling a slip ratio of the torque converter. In this control device, a target slip ratio of the torque converter, which corresponds to a target amount of regeneration that is retrieved using regeneration amount determining factors, is obtained by executing a feedforward control operation using friction torque determining factors, and the slip ratio is controlled in a feedback manner based on the difference between the target slip ratio and the actual slip ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yutaka Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20030173126
    Abstract: Process, apparatus, media and signals are disclosed for controlling a supply of power from an electric generator in a hybrid electric vehicle having a prime mover supplying mechanical energy to the generator. The process carried out by the apparatus and defined by codes on the media and in codes in the signals involves locating, from among a plurality of sets of vehicle operating conditions associated with a requested generator power value, an optimal set of operating conditions that optimizes operating characteristics of the vehicle and producing signals for controlling the prime mover and the generator to operate the vehicle at the optimal set of operating conditions, to supply power at the requested generator power value. The present invention also provides a way of producing vehicle performance records for use in producing signals for controlling the prime mover and the generator to achieve the optimized operating characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Michael Gosselin
  • Publication number: 20030173127
    Abstract: In a method for regulating the distance between a vehicle and another vehicle traveling ahead, vehicle state variables, vehicle characteristic variables are determined together with the distance from and velocity of at least one other vehicle in the vicinity. The distance from the other vehicle and the vehicle's own velocity are set to permitted limiting values. To increase driving safety, the vehicle's own velocity or the setpoint distance from the other vehicle traveling directly ahead are determined as a function of the vehicle velocity of at least one other vehicle traveling to the side, or of the distance between a plurality of other vehicles traveling to the side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Gerhard Noecker
  • Publication number: 20030173128
    Abstract: An automobile running control system having “Fast follow-up” and “Slow follow-up” modes controls so that the automobile may cruise at an optimum car-to-car space between the automobile and an object which is selected among those detected and faster than a preset ground velocity in the “Fast follow-up” mode. When the fast follow-up velocity of the automobile falls under the preset velocity, the system automatically enters the “Slow follow-up” mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kuroda, Satoru Kuragaki, Tokuji Yoshikawa, Toshimichi Minowa