Abstract: A technique for connecting expandable tubulars. The technique comprises an expandable connector system that facilitates the connection of tubular components, such as tubulars used in wellbore environments.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for obtaining information regarding a formation, a casing, or fluid within the casing are provided which utilize an interrogator and one or more sensing devices attached to a casing in a wellbore. The interrogator is located within and may be movable inside the wellbore. The sensing device is positioned and fixed in an opening in the casing. The sensing device includes a housing and a sensor with associated electronic circuitry. The interrogator and sensing device include a magnetic coupling therebetween that is operable when the interrogator and sensing device are positioned in close proximity to one another. Preferably, the magnetic coupling is realized by at least one solenoid winding for the interrogator and at least one solenoid winding for the sensing device, which provide a loosely-coupled transformer interface therebetween. The interrogator and sensing device communicate in a wireless manner over the magnetic coupling therebetween.

Abstract: A method and a plant for simultaneous production of a gas for injection into an oil field and production of methanol, dimethyl ether and/or other oxygenated hydrocarbons or production of higher hydrocarbons from natural gas is disclosed. An air separation unit (ATR) for production of pure nitrogen for injection and pure oxygen for production of synthesis gas (“syngas”) by authermal reformation of a natural gas is an essential part of the method and plant.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of reducing the viscosity of a viscosified treatment fluid comprising contacting the viscosified treatment fluid with an acid generated from an orthoester composition that comprises an orthoester. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of reducing the pH of a viscosified treatment fluid comprising providing an orthoester composition that comprises an orthoester; contacting the viscosified treatment fluid with the orthoester composition; allowing the orthoester to generate a generated acid; and allowing the generated acid to at least partially reduce the pH of the viscosified treatment fluid. Embodiments of fracturing and gravel packing methods also are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to servicing fluids for use in subterranean operations. More particularly, the present invention relates to improved servicing fluids comprising optimized hydrocarbon blends and methods of using such servicing fluids in subterranean formations. One embodiment of the preset invention provides a method of treating a subterranean formation comprising the steps of providing a servicing fluid comprising a hydrocarbon blend wherein the hydrocarbon blend comprises at least about 65% hydrocarbons having from 6 carbons (C6) to eleven carbons (C11); and placing the servicing fluid into the subterranean formation. Another embodiment of the present invention provides a subterranean servicing fluid comprising a hydrocarbon blend wherein the hydrocarbon blend comprises at least about 65% hydrocarbons having from 6 carbons (C6) to eleven carbons (C11).

Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for pumping operations that may be used to form perforations in the casing of a well, clean perforations and drill drain holes through perforations. A plunger is placed in a reference perforation and the pumping operations may be performed through a nozzle at a known location with respect to the reference perforation. The nozzle may be attached to a flexible hose to drill a drain hole or may be inserted in a body on the bottom of a tubing string. Addition apparatus and method are provided to insure that the plunger or plungers are maintained in a reference perforation or perforations when pumping operations are carried out through tubing.

Abstract: The invention relates to downhole wellbore apparatus and particularly, but not exclusively, to apparatus for use in wellbore cleaning operations. A downhole tool (2) comprises a body (4) having a bore extending longitudinally therethrough, wherein the tool (2) further comprises a one-way valve (24,26) for allowing a flow of fluid in a first direction through the tool bore and preventing a flow of fluid in a second direction through the tool bore, the second direction being opposite to the first direction. The tool further comprises mandrel (38) for rendering the one-way valve (24,26) inoperable so as to be ineffective at preventing fluid flow; and a shear pin assembly (44,40) for selectively making the one-way valve operable so as to be effective at allowing fluid flow in the first direction and preventing fluid flow in the second direction.

Abstract: A hydraulic tool assembly for a downhole tool comprises a body (12), first and second members (14, 16) mounted for independent movement with respect to the body, and first and second control fluid chambers (24, 26) associated with the respective first and second members. Movement of the first member (14) between a first position and a second position in response to an applied force displaces control fluid from the first chamber (24) into the second chamber (26), to move the second member from a first position towards a second position to execute a tool function.

Abstract: A disposable downhole tool comprises a material that dissolves when exposed to a chemical solution, an ultraviolet light, a nuclear source, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the material comprises an epoxy resin, a fiberglass, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the material comprises a fiberglass and a binding agent. The material may also be customized to achieve a desired dissolution rate of the tool. In an embodiment, the disposable downhole tool further comprises an enclosure for storing the chemical solution. The tool may also comprise an activation mechanism for releasing the chemical solution from the enclosure. In an embodiment, the disposable downhole tool is a frac plug. In another embodiment, the tool is a bridge plug. In yet another embodiment, the tool is a packer.

Abstract: A casing-engaging wellhead isolation and method of the tool protects wellheads from lifting pressures induced by high fluid pressures and high flow rates used to stimulate low pressure wells. A releasable packer assembly mounted to a bottom end of a mandrel of the tool grips the casing and transfers the lifting pressures directly to the casing. Well treatment safety is thereby significantly enhanced.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming or repairing a wellbore casing by radially expanding a tubular liner.

Abstract: A method of providing a downhole seal, such as a packer, in a drilled bore between inner tubing and outer tubing comprises: providing an intermediate tubing section defining a seal arrangement for engaging with the inner tubing; and radially plastically deforming the intermediate tubing section downhole to form an annular extension. The extension creates a sealing contact with the outer tubing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transferring torque on a rig. The apparatus comprises a central body having a central passage, and a first plurality of splines formed within the central passage and a second plurality of splines formed on a bottom sub, and wherein the first plurality of splines and the second plurality of splines cooperate to engage and transfer the torque applied to the central body. A third plurality of splines may be formed within the central passage, and a fourth plurality of splines formed on a top sub may be included that cooperates to engage and transfer the torque applied to the cental body with the third plurality of splines. In one of the preferred embodiments, the top sub is connected to a top drive of a rig. The apparatus may further comprise a first threaded cap engaging that contains an opening in communication with the central passage. A wireline is disposed within the opening.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for coupling a tubular member to a preexisting structure.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for removing oil, extinguishing fire and containment for oil spills using crushed glass.

Abstract: A rotor system for ground milling or mine milling comprising a base rotor provided with a number of support plates for accommodating tools. The tool support plates are detachably joined to the base rotor in the rotor system. A number of segments are radially arranged around a central axis (M) and a number of retaining plates are provided in an axially interspaced manner between the individual segments.

Abstract: An electric power tool has a motor-driven circular tool that can be clamped by means of a clamping device. A mechanical braking device (2) serves to brake the tool. A safety element (4) prevents improper handling of the electric power tool. In a safety position, the safety element (4) prevents the motor from being turned on and activates the braking device (2). In a release position, the safety element (4) allows the motor to be turned on and the braking device (12) is released. An additional locking mechanism prevents that a clamping lever, needed to actuate the clamping device, can be actuated in the clamped state in the safety position. In the release position of the safety element, the locking mechanism is unlocked.

Abstract: A power hand tool includes a housing that houses a motor, a transmission gear set, a torque control mechanism and an impact mechanism. The torque control mechanism has an adjustment device that is movable between a first position and a second position inside the housing by a rotation action to set a predetermined output torque of the power hand tool. The output torque of the power hand tool is at the minimum condition and the adjustment device stops the impact mechanism from working to prevent destruction to the torque setting of the power hand tool when the adjustment device is in the second position.

Abstract: A rotary hammer and a power tool. The rotary hammer is operable in an idle mode and a hammer mode and comprises a housing and a barrel positioned in the housing and having a forward portion. A ram is positioned within the barrel and is movable relative to the barrel between hammering positions and an idle position. In some aspects, a ram catcher assembly is positioned along the axis adjacent the forward portion of the barrel to releasably hold the ram in the idle position. The ram catcher assembly includes a friction member frictionally engageable with the ram and a damping member at least partially surrounding the friction member. As the ram moves to the idle position with a force, the damping member absorbs at least a portion of the force and the member applies friction to the ram.

Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide an effective technique for reducing wear of sliding contact areas in an engagement clutch of a rotary tool. According to the invention, a representative rotary tool may comprise a motor, a tool bit, a driving-side clutch element, a driven-side clutch element, a biasing spring, a rotation preventing member and an enclosure. The biasing spring biases the driven-side clutch element toward the power transmission prevented position. The biasing spring is disposed in a compressed state on the outer peripheral side of the driving-side clutch element and the driven-side clutch element and extends between the driving-side clutch element and the driven-side clutch element. At least part of the biasing spring is enclosed by the enclosure.

Abstract: The invention includes, in its various aspects and embodiments, a method and apparatus for multiplexing data on-bit in a drilling operation. The apparatus comprises a bit; a plurality of transducers situated on the bit; and an analog multiplexer situated on the on the bit and capable of receiving the output of the transducers, multiplexing the received outputs, and transmitting the multiplexed outputs. The method comprises taking a plurality of measurements of at least one down-hole drilling condition at a bit of a drill string; generating a plurality of analog signals representative of the measurements; and multiplexing the analog signals at the bit.

Abstract: In downhole drilling tools, a first set of inexpensive and/or relatively small sensors that typically have lower accuracy and higher drift than conventional downhole sensors are located in the drill string adjacent to the bit. A second set of highly accurate sensors is located in a more protected location higher in the drill string away from the drill bit. As drilling progresses these sensors pass through the same portion of the formation measured by the first set of sensors. Key properties are measured by the second set of sensors which allow a calibration offset to be applied the data measured by the first set of sensors.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for downhole coring while receiving logging-while-drilling tool data. The apparatus includes core collar and a retrievable core barrel. The retrievable core barrel receives core from a borehole which is sent to the surface for analysis via wireline and latching tool The core collar includes logging-while-drilling tools for the simultaneous measurement of formation properties during the core excavation process. Examples of logging-while-drilling tools include nuclear sensors, resistivity sensors, gamma ray sensors, and bit resistivity sensors. The disclosed method allows for precise core-log depth calibration and core orientation within a single borehole, and without at pipe trip, providing both time saving and unique scientific advantages.

Abstract: A percussive drill bit or reamer having a plurality of bit segments formed into a circular pattern suitable for drilling or reaming a hole. The bit segments are close-fitted and shaped to increase the cutting area and improve efficiency. Pressurized air exhausted from driving the percussion mechanism, or provided from a separate source, is passed into the bit segment and exits from a side face thereof into the gap formed between adjacent bit segments, thereby driving out any debris present in the gap and preventing binding of the bit segments. When utilized with mechanically-driven percussive bit assemblies, where air is only needed to remove debris from a rock face, separately-provided air is delivered to the bit segments of the present invention as described above to clear the gaps of debris.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for the communication of power or data signals across the rotating gap of two tubular members, such as the stator and rotor of a mud motor, and between said rotating members of a drill string through inductive couplers located axially along the drill string.

Abstract: A rotary drill bit insert that includes an elongate body that is rotatable about a central axis wherein the elongate body has a pair of symmetrical halves symmetrical about the central axis. The elongate body contains a central notch disposed between the symmetric halves of the elongate body. Each symmetrical half includes a leading face and a top surface that has a leading surface and a trailing relief surface wherein the leading surface and the trailing relief surface are contiguous and non-coplanar. Each half also has a leading cutting edge at the intersection of the leading face and the leading surface of the top surface. The leading surface is inclined at a constant angle of inclination in a radial direction with respect to a first radial line projecting from the central axis, and the leading surface being inclined downwardly and rearwardly from the leading cutting edge.

Abstract: A cutting insert 1, 1?, comprising opposite insert planes E1, E2 of a base 2 of one base area 3 wherein a conical surface section 4a of a lateral face 4 and the base area 3 facing the same form an acute angle alpha while forming a cutting edge 5, while a planar surface section 4b of the same lateral face 4 forms an obtuse angle beta with the opposite base area 3. The cone axis 6 of the conical surface area 4a lying in the insert plane E1, E2 runs off-set in parallel to the center insert axis 7 lying in the same insert plane E1, E2 while forming an off-center arcuate profile of the cutting edge 5. A milling cutter 17 comprising a number of such cutting inserts 1, 1? is characterized in that a cutting insert 1, 1? preferably disposed on the periphery of the center line M of a tool support 16 is off-set from the center line M by an angle phi equal to 5±3 degrees.

Abstract: A legged robot having a robot structure (20) in the form of a closed kinematic chain and an actuator (26) that contracts when activated. The contraction of the actuator extends a foot element (30) such that it can excerpt a pushing force against a ground surface. When the foot element excerpts sufficient force the legged robot can separate from the ground surface and achieve a dynamic hopping motion.

Abstract: A materials handling device includes a chassis, handle shaft pivotally mounted to the chassis for maneuvering the device, two rollers rotationally mounted to the chassis, battery pack supported on the handle shaft, electric motor and gearbox fitted in one roller in-line with a rotational axis thereof, and a controller supported on the chassis and having capacitors charged by the battery pack so as to have available when needed a store of electrical power. The controller is electrically connected between the battery pack and electric motor such that the store of electrical power can be supplied to the electric motor which, via the gearbox, can transmit a high torque driving output, when needed and instantaneously, to the one roller to thereby enable the device to move across a surface and to manipulate and move a heavy load.

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle drive system including (a) an engine, (b) an electric motor, (c) a planetary gear device having a first rotary element connected to the engine, a second rotary element connected to the electric motor and connected through a first clutch to an output member connected to vehicle drive wheel, and a third rotary element connected through a second clutch to the output member, (d) a forward motor drive control device for engaging the first clutch and releasing the second clutch to thereby establish a forward motor drive mode in which the vehicle is driven in a forward direction by the electric motor, (e) a forward-engine-drive control device for engaging at least the second clutch to establish an engine-drive mode in which the vehicle is driven in the forward direction by the engine, and (f) a second-clutch control device operable upon switching of a vehicle drive mode from the forward motor drive mode to the forward engine drive mode, for engaging the second clutch only after the engine speed has

Abstract: An air cleaner device for a vehicle is provided with an air cleaner body containing an air cleaner element and a snorkel connected to the air cleaner body to introduce the outside air into the air cleaner body. The snorkel extends forward of the vehicle past a side of a cylinder portion which projects upward from an engine, and a front end of the snorkel opens between right and left seats of the vehicle. With this configuration, even if the air cleaner body of the air cleaner device should be flooded, it is difficult for water to enter into the interior. Further, it is difficult for the air cleaner body to be influenced by heat, and difficult for dust to get into the air cleaner body.

Abstract: A throttle valve opening control device includes a drum which is connected to a throttle grip by a wire, an input shaft which is integrally mounted in the drum, an output shaft which is connected to the input shaft by a power transmission device, a link mechanism which connects the output shaft to a forward valve shaft and a rear valve shaft, and a drive motor which drives the power transmission device to provide the relative rotation of the output shaft with respect to the input shaft. The input shaft and the output shaft have respective axes arranged along a straight line. The drive motor is arranged parallel to the output shaft, and the output shaft and the drive motor are juxtaposed vertically and substantially along a centerline of an intake passage. The throttle valve opening control device is relatively compact to reduce engine size.

Abstract: A multi-wheel-drive vehicle has at least six wheels, a transmission with a first brake, and a transaxle device for the front drive wheels. The transaxle device includes a drive axle, an input shaft rectangular to the drive axle for receiving power from the transmission, a drive train connecting the drive axle to the input shaft, a second brake, and a clutch device in the input shaft. The drive axle may be a pair of drive axles connected by a differential unit. The clutch device can selectively isolate the drive axle from the rotation of the input device. Further, the clutch device is engaged when the first brake is applied. Additionally, the first and second brakes may be connected such that their operation may be synchronized.

Abstract: A switch mounting assembly that adapts a switch to detect a position of a vehicle control, such as the position of a drive control actuator of a lawn and garden tractor or similar vehicle. The switch mounting assembly includes a switch support member and a lever pivotally connected to the switch support member. The switch support member mounts a switch that includes an actuator that is biased to an extended position and a may be selectively depressed to a retracted position. The lever is pivotable between a first position that allows the actuator to be biased to the extended position and a second position that depresses the actuator to the retracted position.

Abstract: A servo-assisted steering system for a motor vehicle, in which the steering system includes a steering wheel for presetting a desired steering angle for the wheels of the motor vehicle, a driving-dynamics means for superimposing a correction angle on the steering angle, the correction angle being determined with a view toward increasing the driving stability and/or the driving comfort of the motor vehicle, and a servo drive. To keep the efficiency of the driving-dynamics means nearly constant over the entire road-speed range of the vehicle, the servo drive is implemented as a variable torque assistance system, the degree of torque assistance being dependent on the road speed of the vehicle and on at least one variable of the driving-dynamics means that characterizes the correction angle.

Abstract: A tree stand hitch assembly includes a ladder assembly having a tubular base member and a top section, a platform secured to the top section of the ladder assembly, and a non-pivoting, generally rectangular hitch adapted to be secured to the rear of a vehicle. Ladder assembly may be adjustably secured to the hitch. The orientation of the platform in relation to the top section of the ladder assembly may be adjusted. The ladder assembly may be folded or collapsed when not in use.

Abstract: A crane mechanism for raising a hunting blind or similar large object up along the side of a tree trunk, the crane using the vertical tree trunk as its support tower. The crane is generally L-shaped in use, having a vertical trunk-securing arm adapted to be temporarily secured directly against the side of the tree trunk above the installation height of the object to be raised, a perpendicular boom extending away from the tree trunk, and a hoist mechanism on the boom spaced from the tree trunk. A separable hoist drive can be used, for example mounted to the base of the tree trunk in the same manner as the vertical trunk-securing arm.

Abstract: A suspended step assembly that is attachable over the tire of a motor vehicle and which can support a mechanic working in the engine compartment. It has a frame that can be broken down into sub-parts for compact storage in a motor vehicle, is easy and fast to assemble and disassemble, is adjustable to differing tire widths, has an upper configuration that securely hooks over the top of the tire, has a strong and simple closed-loop tubular structure that resists parallelogram deforming while under load, has a step that is secured into a fixed position on the frame without fasteners, and has a bottom stirrup under its step. Applications may include, but are not limited to, use by mechanics to more easily and efficiently perform engine work, and use by those needing to clean or otherwise have access to the upper portions of high-profile vehicles.

Abstract: A system for improved collection and containment of fluids such as oils that commonly drip from an aircraft during service maintenance operations and during normal periods of storage. The system comprises a ground-supported drip pan incorporating a peripheral cutout adapted to accommodate a landing wheel of the aircraft to permit effective positioning under the engine. An embodiment for exterior use utilizing the weight of the aircraft to prevent movement of the system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A self-checkout system includes a graphical user interface for self-checkout of non-bar-coded items. The interface displayes a predetermined image corresponding to a non-bar-coded item, and means for the user to select the image. A product look up (PLU) entry device provides a PLU corresponding to the item selected by the user and a processing unit uses the selected PLU to retrieve price information from a database. The processing unit may also maintain a list of most frequently sold items and the image of at least on item on the list is provided on the display screen. The processing unit may update the display screen when the list of most requently sold items changes. Images of other non-bar-coded items can also be displayed.

Abstract: This patent relates to a machine for transporting people and cargo with three-dimensional and infinite movement along properly positioned rails. The main application is for transporting people between two points with different coordinates, for example between one floor of one building and another floor of another building, kilometres away. It is composed essentially of: a set of wheels (1 and 2) that roll on the rails (8 and 9); a cabinet (7) where the people and cargo are transported; a chassis that connects the wheels to a “T” beam (10); this “T” beam (10) connects the chassis to the cabinet (7); electrical engines that move the wheels. The set of parts allows the cabinet to have a non-straight, three-dimensional and infinite movement, the cabinet always being in the vertical position.

Abstract: A wheel torquing assisting device for allowing lateral movement of a suspended vehicle wheel while preventing rotation of the suspended vehicle wheel, including anti-slip teeth on the wheel-engaging face, a forefoot portal and means for varying the height and/or width of the device.

Abstract: In the invention there is provided a disk brake stack having disks with available wear portions of a first thickness, a second thickness and a third thickness. The disk(s) having an initial available wear portion of a first thickness are of a thickness so that at the first overhaul, the available wear portion of such disks are only partly worn away and disks are about equal to disks having an initial available wear portion of a second thickness. The disks having an initial available wear portion of a second thickness at the first overhaul are only partly worn away and such disks are about equal to the disks having an initial available wear portion of a third thickness. The disks initially having an available wear portion of a third thickness at the first overhaul are substantially fully worn and are replaced by new or refurbished disks having an available wear portion of a first, second or third thickness.

Abstract: This invention relates to a brake caliper adapted for use in a vehicle disc brake assembly and method and apparatus for producing the same. The method for producing the brake caliper comprises the steps of: (a) providing a mold member having at least two mold sections; (b) providing a core member having at least a first male extension which is adapted to form an integrally cast locating recess in the brake caliper which is used as a locating surface for subsequent machining of the brake caliper; (c) disposing the core member in the mold member in a predetermined position; (d) supplying a suitable material to the mold member so as to form a brake caliper within the mold; (e) removing the brake caliper from the mold, wherein the brake caliper includes an integrally cast locating recess formed therein by the first male extension of the core member; and (f) machining the brake caliper using at least the integrally cast locating recess formed therein as a locating surface.

Abstract: The invention discloses an improved drum brake hydraulic cylinder. In a preferred embodiment, the invention discloses an O-ring in an annular groove to seal the cylinder. One specifically disclosed embodiment shows an additional exterior seal over the piston and the opening of the cylinder chamber and an optional cup seal. Another specifically disclosed embodiment shows universal drum brake hydraulic cylinder that may be used in left side and right side applications.

Abstract: A self-contained trailer braking system comprises a fifth wheel hitch attached to a trailer frame, where the trailer hitch further comprises a kingpin to engage a fifth wheel of a towing vehicle. A sliding mechanism is attached to the kingpin, where the sliding mechanism is slidingly captured within the trailer frame and can move between a forward position and a rear position. A spring is attached to the sliding mechanism and the trailer frame, where the spring biases the sliding member to the forward position. A brake actuator is mounted to the trailer frame and linked to the sliding mechanism. A brake assembly is attached to the brake actuator, and a power supply is attached to the brake assembly, where power is applied to the brake assembly when the sliding mechanism is away from the forward position.

Abstract: A magnetic braking system for inhibiting excessive motion between a float and a column intended to be placed in a body of water; with the float and column moving relative to each other as a function of the waves present in the body of water. The braking system includes a permanent magnetic assembly (PMA) mounted on, and attached to, one of the float and column and a coil assembly (or a conductive plate) mounted on, and attached to, the other one of the float and column. The braking system is mounted such that motion between the float and the column is inhibited when the displacement of the float relative to the column exceeds a predetermined operating range.

Abstract: A rotor brake includes a braking force absorption element non-rotatably connected to a rotor shaft; a stationary brake actuator for actuating a braking force transmission element that is functionally coupled to the braking force absorption element so as to exert a braking effect; and at least one rotor speed-controlled, centrifugal force-actuated rotor brake deactivation device. In addition, a rotor having at least one such rotor brake, as well as rotary-wing aircraft, especially a helicopter, having at least one rotor as well as at least one such rotor brake.

Abstract: An improved clutch or brake device in which at least two members are mounted for relative rotation and engagement, the members having friction material rotatable therewith, and the friction material of the members having surfaces confronting each other, characterized in that the friction material has a solid density of greater than 30% and includes an open lattice of carbon ligaments forming a network of three dimensionally interconnected cells; and a pyrolytic carbon coating on the open lattice of carbon ligaments.

Abstract: A gas valve assembly for a shock absorber includes a first portion of a first material and a second portion of second material which is less rigid than the first material. The first portion defines a rigid valve assembly body having a threaded portion to mount the valve to the shock body. The second portion is resilient and defines an integral plug and annular seal interconnected by a connecting member. The annular seal is molded adjacent a step engagement surface to seal the gas valve assembly to the shock body. A head having a tool engagement surface compresses the annular seal when the gas valve assembly is threaded in place.