Abstract: The present invention is a composition for forming seals. The composition includes a base material and a hydrogel. The base materials is preferably an elastomer or a thermoplastic. Seals formed with the composition are particularly suited for use in a wellbore environment. The inclusion of hydrogel in the seals allows the seals to be manipulated or altered through certain environmental factors. For instance, temperature, oil/water ratio, pH and the electronic field may all be used to alter the characteristics of the hydrogel. In this way, the seal may be caused to swell in response to a specific stimulus, thereby preventing or sealing a leak without requiring additional work or input from the operator.

Abstract: A method for perforating a wellbore comprises placing a perforating device in a cased wellbore that passes through a subterranean formation. The perforating device comprises at least one explosive perforating charge that can be detonated in order to perforate the casing and allow the formation fluids to enter the wellbore. A perforating fluid is placed in the wellbore between the perforating device and the casing. The ratio of the critical temperature of the perforating fluid in ° K and the temperature of the subterranean formation adjacent to the casing in ° K is between about 1.0-1.3. When the at least one explosive charge in the perforating device is detonated, at least one perforation is formed in the casing, and at least a portion of the perforating fluid is forced into the subterranean formation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for completing a lateral channel from an existing oil or gas well includes a well perforating tool for perforating a well casing at a preselected depth, and a lateral alignment tool for directing a flexible hose and blaster nozzle through a previously made perforation in the casing to complete the lateral channel. The disclosed apparatus also is effective to provide an expanded groove within the earth strata beyond the well casing. The apparatus eliminates the need to maintain the precise alignment of a downhole “shoe” in order to direct the flexible hose and blaster nozzle through a previously made perforation through the well casing.

Abstract: A technique is provided to facilitate a well related procedure involving perforation and fracturing processes. A crane is used to lower fracturing equipment into a wellbore. Additionally, a wireline winch is mounted on the crane to facilitate a perforation process. The wireline winch uses a conductive wireline that may be run into the wellbore to enable the firing of a perforating gun.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for selectively and safely reversing flow in coiled tubing used for wellbore cleanouts are disclosed. One apparatus includes a section of coiled tubing having a main flow channel, at least two flow-preventing valves in the section of coiled tubing, each adapted to close the main flow channel upon attempted flow reversal; and at least one actuator adapted to deter closing of the flow-preventing valves. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for intercepting and connecting underground formations containing hydrocarbons, so as to make the production and injection of hydrocarbons technically and financially feasible in land and offshore oil production zones. It is claimed to be a method for the production and/or injection of hydrocarbons through thusly connected underground formations.

Abstract: An adaptor for a top tensioned riser that allows the riser to be tied in with wellheads beyond the normal range of the top tensioned riser. An adaptor spool attaches between the top tensioned riser and the subsea wellhead. An adaptor spool hanger may land in the adaptor spool. The adaptor spool is provided with a side penetration to which a flow line may be connected. The flow line is provided with a connector that connects to a production line from a remote location. This allows the fluid production to flow from the remote location through the existing top tensioned riser to the host facility. The tieback connector/stress joint may also be provided with a flow line prepared to accept remote field tiebacks, which are also piggable.

Abstract: Assembly and method for extracting fluids, preferably crude oil, from a drilled well within a geological formation by means of reciprocating pumping with hollow sucker rods. The assembly includes: a) a stationary bottom set attached to the casing at the desired depth and providing the rod pump anchoring system; b) a reciprocating axial movement rod pump having an anchoring system and a centralizer; c) a centralized hollow rod string extending within the well, which is connected to the mobile member of the pump; d) a hollow polished rod connected to the hollow rod string and linked to a system that imparts the reciprocating axial movement to the pump; e) a production bridge connecting the polished rod to the driving tubing through rotating joints, and f) a rigid head that provides a venting exit of the annular space formed between the string and the casing.

Abstract: A multi-drop flow control valve system having a plurality of hydraulically actuated flow control valve, each valve set in an initial operating position. The flow control valves are connected to a hydraulic control line in sequence, wherein the second flow control valve is below the first flow control valve and so on. Wherein a first hydraulic pressure in the control line will operate at least the first flow control valve to an actuated position and a second hydraulic pressure greater than the first hydraulic pressure will operate at least the first and second flow control valves to actuated positions. It may be desired for each of the control valves to be biased in the initial position when the hydraulic pressure is less than a base pressure.

Abstract: A four-cornered, open frame, connected either to a top drive or to a traveling block, has an elevator at its lower end used to support the weight of the tubular string, and has a mud tool, a stabber, a guide, a spinner, a tong, a stabbing guide and a backup tong carried by the frame. A manipulator arm picks up a horizontal tubular, manipulates the tubular to vertical, and moves the tubular into the interior of the frame, allowing the tubular to be made up in the string while the string is being lowered into the wellbore.

Abstract: A coiled tubing connector for connecting tools together when they are inserted into a well bore. The connector includes a disposable element that may be severed along with the connected portion of the coiled tubing. This provides for quick disconnect and reuse of the remainder of the connector.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for adapting a combination of well tubulars in a string to accept a single filling and circulation apparatus and to eliminate the need for bails and elevators. In addition an adapter and a new filling and circulation apparatus are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of lining a bore section, the method comprises providing a first tubing section and an expandable thin-walled second tubing section. The first tubing section is run into a section of a bore. The second tubing section is then run into the bore section, within the first tubing section, and expanded to a larger diameter, such that the bore section is lined by at least two tubing sections.

Abstract: A liner hanger includes an annular slip seat that radially surrounds a section of the liner being hung. The slip seat contains a plurality of windows that each accommodates at least one intermediate slip seat. The intermediate slip seats, in turn, each contain windows that accommodate a slip element. There are tongue and groove arrangements between the slip seat and the intermediate slip seat as well as between the intermediate slip seat and the slip element that allow axial movement of the slip element to be translated by camming surfaces into radial outward movement of both the intermediate slip seat and the slip element. The imposition of one or more intermediate slip seats, in an embedded or nested relationship, allows for greater radial expansion of the slip elements with respect to the interior liner.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the insertion of a tool into a wellbore, especially a non-vertical wellbore. In one embodiment a tool is fixable in a wellbore and includes centralizing, friction-reducing members that serve to keep the body of the tool off the walls of the wellbore. In another embodiment the tool includes a wiper ring that partially fills an annular area formed between the centered tool and the wellbore walls. The surface of the ring facing the upper end of the wellbore provides fluid resisting piston surface and permits the centered tool to be pumped down the wellbore more effectively.

Abstract: A blowout preventer to hydraulically seal a wellbore includes a housing configured to be positioned above a wellhead and to surround a drillstring, a plurality of rams positioned perpendicular to an axis of the drillstring to engage the drillstring and hydraulically isolate an annulus between the wellbore and the drillstring when in a closed position, and a roller lock positioned about a thrust rod of each ram configured to maintain the rams in the closed position.

Abstract: A flexible horseshoe which attaches to a horse hoof by threaded attachment screws. The invention also includes the device for cutting the flexible horseshoes, and the method of mounting the flexible horseshoes.

Abstract: A set of horseshoes for race horses made of Zytel®211 nylon with an embedded metal toe grab, and having front horseshoes with a relieved toe portion on the bottom side contacting the ground, and having rear horseshoes with a gradually thickening toe portion on the top side contacting the hoof.

Abstract: A fire suppression system for producing an inert gas mixture having a minimal amount of carbon monoxide, particulates, or smoke. The inert gas mixture may be generated by combusting a gas generant. The gas generant may be a composition that includes hexa(ammine)-cobalt(III)-nitrate. The fire suppression system also includes a heat management system to reduce a temperature of the inert gas mixture. In one embodiment, the system includes multiple gas generators and is configured to ignite the respective gas generant of each gas generator in a predetermined, time based sequential order. For example, the gas generant of each gas generator may be ignited in a sequential order at specified time intervals. Methods of extinguishing fires are also disclosed.

Abstract: A fire suppression system is disclosed. The system includes a source of pressurized gas and a source of pressurized liquid. At least one emitter is in fluid communication with the liquid and gas sources. The emitter is used to establish a gas stream, atomize and entrain the liquid into the gas stream and discharge the resulting liquid-gas stream onto the fire. A method of operating the system is also disclosed. The method includes establishing a gas stream having first and second shock fronts using the emitter, atomizing and entraining the liquid with the gas at one of the two shock fronts to form a liquid-gas stream, and discharging the stream onto the fire. The method also includes creating a plurality of shock diamonds in the liquid-gas stream discharged from the emitter.

Abstract: A fire extinguishing or explosion suppression device comprises a chamber and a nozzle. The nozzle defines a discharge pathway from the chamber. The chamber has an inlet for pressure-driven introduction of a liquid into the chamber. The chamber is shaped so that a gas contained in the chamber before the introduction of the liquid is entrained into the liquid during the pressure driven introduction of the liquid such that a mixture of the liquid and the gas is discharged through the nozzle to create a mist for extinguishing a fire or suppression of an explosion. After the gas has been discharged from the chamber, the nozzle produces a spray having a core of larger liquid droplets with the core being surrounded by smaller liquid droplets.

Abstract: A vehicle having a tire fire suppression system includes a vehicle body for transportation of occupants or cargo. A plurality of combustible tires is connected to the body. The tires are susceptible to auto-ignition in response to exposure to an elevated temperature condition. The fire suppression system is connected to the body and includes a container of a fire suppressant. At least one temperature sensor is positioned in close proximity to at least one of the tires. The temperature sensor is adapted to be activated in response to the elevated temperature condition and before the auto-ignition. At least one nozzle is positioned to direct the suppressant toward the tire. An actuator connects the container to the nozzle for the suppressant to be dispersed from the nozzle in response to activation of the sensor.

Abstract: A three point hitch is provide for a tractor used for viticulture and/or fruit culture. The hitch (10) includes an upper link and two lower links (12, 14). One end of the upper link is pivotally coupled to the tractor at tractor connection point (16) in an upper central area of the three point hitch. An end (18, 64) of each lower link (12, 14) is permanently pivotally connected to the tractor at a pivot point (22) in a lower area of the three point hitch. The pivot points (22) of lower links (12, 14) are positioned adjacent to each other.

Abstract: Device for rock bolting with an adapter device (10) for connection of a drilling machine (3) to a self drilling rock bolt (7), said adapter device including an adapter element (14) which is sealingly surrounded by a swivel sleeve (13) for connection to (one) external (source) sources for flushing medium (8) and bolt grouting medium (9), wherein the adapter element includes a thread for connecting to a corresponding thread on the rock bolt (7), and an integral connection portion for connection to the drilling machine (3). The invention also concerns a device for automatized rock bolting and a method for rock bolting.

Abstract: A pneumatic impact tool and method include a cylinder pipe or housing part closed with a cover, as well as an impact piston that can move in the cylinder pipe for forming a first pressure chamber between an impact plate and the impact piston. A second pressure chamber is formed between a cover and the impact piston. The cover is provided with at least one opening, the surface of which is smaller than the piston surface, whereby the impact piston seals the opening when it is in its fully retracted position. The impact piston is driven into its sealing position by applying a relatively low excess pressure in the first pressure chamber while the second pressure chamber is relatively free of pressure. The pressurizing of the impact piston occurs with relatively high pressure in the area of a partial surface of the end surface of the impact piston through the opening.

Abstract: A center portion of a handle housing portion 3 is arranged with a pressure reducing valve mechanism portion 50 for reducing a pressure of high pressure compressed air to be surrounded by an exhaust chamber 40, in a state of making a trigger 37 ON, air pressure P22 of a secondary pressure side port 52 of the pressure reducing valve mechanism portion 50 is made to be higher than air pressure P21 of a secondary pressure side port 52 of the pressure reducing valve mechanism portion 50 in a state of making the trigger 37 OFF by communicating a hermetically closed chamber 59a of a pressure control spring 56 and the exhaust chamber 40 by way of a relief hole 59b such that an exhaust air pressure of an air motor mechanism portion 10 is added to a spring force. F of the pressure control spring 56 of the pressure reducing valve mechanism portion 50.

Abstract: An overload clutch assembly for a power tool having two torque settings through which rotary drive is transmitted to a spindle. The overload clutch assembly is capable of being between switched between the two torque settings by at least one actuator. The clutch assembly comprises a carrier rotationally mounted on a output clutch spindle; a first clutch plate operational for transmitting torque below a first level; and a second clutch plate operational for transmitting torque below a second level higher than the first; and characterised in that, when the overload clutch is in the higher torque setting, the torque is transferred from the carrier to the output clutch spindle via the second clutch plate only.

Abstract: An articulated, modular, track-mounted, self-propelled, remote-controlled drilling apparatus is demountable into several heli-transportable components, including a drilling module and a drill support module, plus separate hydraulically-driven track carriages on which they are removably mountable. The track carriages are demountably coupled in tandem by a tri-axially articulated hitch mechanism incorporating a track steering mechanism. The drilling module carries a rotary drill, a hydraulic pump operatively connected to the track drive mechanisms, and a primary motor, which selectively drives either the drill or the pump. The use of multiple demountable modules reduces the weight of the components to be heli-transported, thus allowing the use of smaller and more economical helicopters.

Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in a face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A computer enclosure includes a cage (10) and a front bezel (20). The cage includes a top panel (18), a bottom panel (17), and a pair of side panels (11). The top panel, the bottom panel, and the side panels are connected with each other to define an opening (15). The front bezel has securing structures (222) at opposite sides thereof for securing the front bezel to the cage. The front bezel is secured to the cage for covering the opening. The computer enclosure with direct-mounting front bezel has simple structures and is inexpensive.

Abstract: A temporary protective cover which can be removably attached to a plaster ring which can be removably mounted onto an electrical box having an open front end includes a plate sized and shaped to be removably mounted onto the plaster ring, a pair of wings formed onto the plate for removably securing the cover onto the plaster ring and a pair of posts formed onto the plate for removably securing the cover onto the plaster ring. Each wing is shaped to include a flexible leg and a pair of feet one at each end of the wing. The posts are shaped and sized to be press fit into bores on the plaster ring. In use, the wings and the posts both serve to removably secure the cover to the plaster ring.

Abstract: A cover assembly for a floor box including an access door for covering at least a portion of the floor box. The access door includes an opening for passage of at least one cord therethrough. The cover assembly further includes a cord door positioned to cover the opening in the access door. The cord door is removeably securable to the access door in at least two mounting orientations.

Abstract: That portion of a wire harness, corresponding to an installation path region E1 where a cable is not required to have flexibility, includes rigid wires 1 each having a single conductor 1a, and a metal shielding case 2 covering outer peripheries of the rigid wires 1. Each of those portions of the wire harness, corresponding respectively to installation path regions E2 where the cable is required to have flexibility, includes flexible wires 4, and a flexible shielding member 5 covering outer peripheries of the flexible wires 4. Conductors 4a of the flexible wires 4 are connected to the conductors 1a of the rigid wires 1, and the metal protector 2 is connected to the flexible shielding members 5.

Abstract: A wiring harness holding device for holding a wiring harness laid between a stationary structure and a movable structure slidably provided to the stationary structure, includes a movable side holding portion that holds one portion of the wiring harness on the movable structure, and a stationary side holding portion that holds another portion of the wiring harness on the stationary structure. The movable side holding portion holds the wiring harness so that the wiring harness derived from the movable side holding portion towards the stationary side holding portion swivels around the movable side holding portion in association with the sliding movement of the movable structure.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a coated conductor comprises a conductor and a covering disposed over the conductor wherein the conductor comprises a thermoplastic composition. The thermoplastic composition comprises a poly(arylene ether); a polyolefin, a block copolymer; and flame retardant. The coated conductor has a long term chemical resistance to gasoline of greater than or equal to 100 days.

Abstract: A mounting fixture for mounting a piece of telecommunications equipment within an underground vault is disclosed. The mounting fixture includes a frame structure configured to be mounted to an upper edge of an open end of a vault. The mounting fixture also includes a can structure for receiving the piece of telecommunications equipment. The can structure includes a closed end, an open end, and a sidewall extending between the closed end and the open end, the can structure being mounted to the frame structure. A cover including a top end and a skirt portion extending downwardly from the top end is slidably received within the can structure, the skirt portion sized to fit around the piece of telecommunications equipment and sized to fit within the sidewall of the can structure, the top end of the cover forming a water tight seal with the top end of the can structure.

Abstract: A protective cable guide and separator assembly. A first handle is coupled to first ends of a plurality of RF cables and a second end is coupled to second ends of the plurality of RF cables. At least one resilient portion is between the first and second handle portions for receiving and retaining the plurality of RF cables. The resilient portion protects the RF cables and maintains consistent spacing between each RF cable relative one another.

Abstract: A portable terminal includes a first housing, a second housing, and a sliding module. The second housing is slidably connected to the first housing such that the second housing slides longitudinally on the first housing to open or close a face of the first housing. The sliding module is interposed between the first housing and the second housing to slidably combine the second housing to the first housing. The sliding module includes a pair of guide rods and a guide plate. The guide rods are mounted spaced apart on the rear face of the second housing along a sliding direction of the second housing. The guide plate is fixed to a face of the first housing. The guide plate is slidably connected to the guide rods.

Abstract: A multilayer circuit board is provided with at least one signal layer, at least one feedback layer, and at least one dielectric layer positioned between the signal layer and the feedback layer. The signal layer is connected to at least one plated hole. The feedback layer has a contact pad, which is positioned adjacent to the plated hole, but is electrically isolated from the plated hole. The contact pad is connected to a measurement unit. The dielectric layer is positioned between the signal layer and the contact pad of the feedback layer. A portion of the plated hole forms a stub portion, which extends a distance away from the signal layer and typically extends a distance away from the contact pad of the feedback layer. To remove the stub portion, a hole is bored or routed into the multilayer circuit board until electrical feedback is received by the measurement unit upon contact of a portion of the boring device with the contact pad.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a mid-plane. a multi-layer board having a connection assembly is provided and a layer with a channel formed therein to define a perimeter of a connector area is provided. The layer is bonded to the multi-layer board such that the connector area overlaps the part of the connection assembly of the multi-layer board. At least a portion of the connector area in the layer is removed to expose the connection assembly of the multi-layer board. A rigid multilayer is also disclosed. The rigid multilayer includes a multi-layer board and a layer. The multi-layer board has a connection assembly. The layer has a channel formed therein to define a perimeter of a connector area. The layer is bonded to the multi-layer board such that the connector area overlaps the connection assembly of the multi-layer board. The connector area can then be removed such as by depth controlled routing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for electrically interfacing between two or more distinct environments. The method and apparatus are directed to an electrical feedthru with exterior traces traversing a core. The electrical feedthru may be very small, facilitating its use in MEMS devices. The electrical feedthru may also include an over-mold shaped to create a mechanical seal between the two or more distinct environments without the use of an O-ring. The electrical feedthru is not limited to any particular geometry, it may be adapted to fit between any two environments, and thus the traces are not necessarily parallel to a central axis of the core.

Abstract: A rotary cutter assembly constructed in accordance with this method of securing a rotary cutter to a body has a cutter pocket with a first shoulder and a truncated second shoulder. A receptacle extends into the first shoulder. A first retainer retains a first axle end of the rotary cutter and engages the first shoulder to prevent axial movement in a first direction. A projection on the first retainer engages the receptacle to prevent removal of the first retainer radially from the cutter pocket. A second retainer retains a second axle end of the rotary cutter. The second retainer has a step down portion engaging the truncated second shoulder of the cutter pocket to prevent axial movement in a second direction. A locking ring overlies the truncated second shoulder and the step down portion of the second retainer to prevent removal of the second retainer radially from the cutter pocket.

Abstract: A multi-sectional percussive drill bit assembly for drilling holes in earth formation primarily used in conjunction with a pneumatic percussive device. The drill bit assembly is comprised of an easily removable bit that is rotationally driven by a lug and pocket structure and axially limited in travel by means of retaining members.

Abstract: A device and the relative procedure are described, for the insertion of a new drilling string-element into a drilling-string essentially consisting of a short pipe-shaped body (C) having, at its ends, means suitable for screwing it onto drill pipes, in which two valves are housed, of which one (A) is radial to said short body, interceptable from the outside by means of an adaptor and equipped with a suitable safety plug, the other (B) axial to said body.

Abstract: A module is for use in drilling a borehole in face of a mine passage using a drilling element and installing a bolt in the borehole once formed. The module may include a bolt holder for holding a plurality of bolts and a drilling element holder for holding a plurality of different drilling elements. A manipulator moves along an arcuate path between the bolt and drilling element holders to deliver the respective components to a drill head positioned along the arcuate path. The drill head may also slide relative to the mast in two different directions, and includes a drill guide for determining the location of the face to be worked. Related aspects of control of the module and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A rotary drilling apparatus and method for drilling subterranean formations, including a body being provided with at least one cutter thereon exhibiting reduced, or limited, exposure to the formation, so as to control the depth-of-cut of the at least one cutter, so as to control the volume of formation material cut per rotation of the drilling apparatus, as well as to control the amount of torque experienced by the drilling apparatus and an optionally associated bottomhole assembly regardless of the effective weight-on-bit are all disclosed. The exterior of the drilling apparatus may include a plurality of blade structures carrying at least one such cutter thereon and including a sufficient amount of bearing surface area to contact the formation so as to generally distribute an additional weight applied to the drilling apparatus against the bottom of the borehole without exceeding the compressive strength of the formation rock.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a water-based drilling mud for utilization in the drilling of oil wells comprising an aqueous phase wherein the aqueous phase contains an oil soluble polymer in the form of a gel as a fluid loss reducer. The subject invention further reveals a method of lubricating a drilling bit during the drilling of a well which comprises circulating a water-based drilling mud in the vicinity of the drilling bit wherein the water-based drilling mud is comprised of an aqueous phase, and wherein the aqueous phase contains an oil soluble polymer in the form of a gel as a fluid loss reducer.

Abstract: A system to re-inject drill cuttings slurry into a well formation for the storage of the cuttings. The system may include a pressure containing conduit that creates a flow path to an annulus within the well formation. The system may include an injection inlet, a drilling guide base, an injection adapter having a circular gallery, an injection mandrel having at least one injection port, and an annulus created between the injection mandrel and an inner casing. The slurry may be injected into the annulus while still drilling the wellbore. The location of the injection inlet may be positioned relative to the circular gallery of the injection adapter such that a cyclone effect is created within gallery minimizing erosion due to the flow of the slurry. The injection mandrel may be adapted to allow the passage of drilling mud to a downhole drilling location while injecting slurry into the casing annulus.

Abstract: A thrust bearing assembly in which each thrust pad is individually mounted on a deflection element. An embodiment of the invention comprises a rotating bearing runner having a wear resistant face and a stationary bearing carrier defining a plurality of cavities disposed annularly around the carrier. A deflection element, such as a Belleville washer, is disposed in a cavity of the plurality of cavities and a pad is disposed over the deflection element. The pad is at least partially disposed within the cavity. The wear resistant face of the rotating bearing runner contacts the pad.

Abstract: A stabilizer comprised of a tubular body which has an exterior surface with selectively positioned indentations. A sleeve is positioned over the tubular body. The sleeve has an interior surface in contact with the exterior surface and a plurality of radial longitudinally oriented vanes. A plurality of radial apertures extend through the sleeve. The sleeve is secured to the body against rotation or axial movement by set screws. Each of the set screws extend through one of the apertures of the sleeve to engage on to the indentation in the exterior surface of the body.