Patents Issued in February 14, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080035308
    Abstract: The invention relates to a constructional unit for a heat exchanging device, which comprises at least one housing (7) in which a gaseous medium is at least partially guided on a predetermined path, an inlet device (23) for gaseous medium, at least one first heat exchanging device (3), at least one second heat exchanging device (4), at least one controller (9) that influences the direction of flow of the gaseous medium in at least some sections and that can be adjusted to at least two different positions, and an outlet device (13, 14, 15, 16, 18) for the gaseous medium. The invention is characterized in that in at least one first position of the first controller (9) substantially no portions of the gaseous medium are guided through the first heat exchanging device (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Pierre Tonnelier
  • Publication number: 20080035309
    Abstract: The invention relates to a heat exchanger (10), in particular, for exhaust coolers on internal combustion engines. The aim of the invention is to provide a separation of the carrier medium flow into two partial flows as leak free as possible, by suitable embodiment of the baffle plate (40). A heat exchanger (10) as used, in particular, as exhaust gas cooler for internal combustion engines, comprises a heat exchanger channel (14) and a bypass channel (11), whereby a switching flap (20) is arranged upstream of the heat exchanger (10) in the flow channel (25), which divides the incoming carrier medium into the heat exchanger channel (14) and the bypass channel (11). A baffle plate (40) is provided to maintain the separation between the partial flow through the bypass channel (11) and the partial flow through the heat exchanger channel (14), which, according to the invention, extends from the switching flap (20) to the beginning of the bypass channel (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: BEHR GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Claus Beck, Herve Palanchon, Martin Schindler
  • Publication number: 20080035310
    Abstract: An isothermal plate module includes an isothermal plate body and a plurality of heat pipes. One surface of the isothermal plate body has first recesses extending along a first direction and second recesses extending along a second direction. The first recesses extending along the first direction and the second recesses extending along the second direction are staggered to one another. A level difference is formed between each first and second recess. The heat pipes can be disposed in the first recesses and the second recesses, respectively. The isothermal plate body adheres to the heat source. With the plurality of staggered heat pipes and the working fluid and capillary structure within the heat pipes, an isothermal plate module can be formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Hul-Chun Hsu
  • Publication number: 20080035311
    Abstract: A cooler system includes a metal holder base, a mounting structure that secures the metal holder base to a circuit board, a curved heat pipe, which has a mounting portion fastened to one through hole on the metal holder base and a cooling portion extending from the mounting portion to the outside of the metal holder base and the circuit board at an angle, and a heat sink fastened to the cooling portion of the heat pipe outside the metal holder base and the circuit board in a parallel relationship relative to the circuit board for dissipation heat absorbed by the heat pipe from a heat source at the circuit board into the outside open air far from the circuit board efficiently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: KWO GER METAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Ting-Wei Hsu
  • Publication number: 20080035312
    Abstract: Various embodiments of air conditioning systems are disclosed. The systems may include an air conditioner whose energy source is provided by heating of a first fluid. The first fluid may be in a liquid state contained in a reservoir hydraulically connected to a first chamber. The first chamber may be configured to receive thermal energy utilized to convert the first fluid into a vapor. The system may also include a second chamber hydraulically connected to the first chamber to receive the vaporized fluid from the first chamber. The second chamber may be configured to condense the vaporized first fluid, causing depressurization in the second chamber. The system may be configured such that the depressurization of the second chamber may drive an external fluid through an expanding valve in addition to an energy converter (e.g. Turbine Generator) overall able to convert the first fluid condensing energy into cooling and mechanical or electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Claudio Filippone
  • Publication number: 20080035313
    Abstract: A isothermal plate includes a heat-conducting base and a plurality of heat pipe. After the heat-conducting base is combined with the heat pipes, they are subjected to a pressing action. The heat-conducting base has a first plate body provided thereon with a plurality of hollow ribs extending from its one side to another side. The hollow rib is arranged at an interval with each other, so that a hollowed section is formed between any two adjacent hollow ribs. Each hollow rib is provided therein with a deep hole extending along its lengthwise direction, so that the heat pipes are respectively inserted into each deep hole and accommodated therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Hul-Chun Hsu
  • Publication number: 20080035314
    Abstract: A reflux condenser and a method for conducting away liquid from the lower region of reflux passages, is disclosed. The reflux condenser has at least one heat exchanger block which has reflux passages and refrigerant passages, and a pressure container which encloses the heat exchanger block at the top and laterally. The reflux passages communicate at their lower end with a header which is arranged below the heat exchanger block and has a phase-separating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas HECHT, Sepp Schuhbeck
  • Publication number: 20080035315
    Abstract: Devices for removing heat from electronic components. A device includes a heat sink for attachment to an electronic component and multiple miniature fans. Each miniature fan includes an elongated, generally tubular outer housing member adapted to receive end closure plugs or caps at each end, a miniature electric motor mounted within one of the end caps, and a generally cylindrical shaped rotor/impeller disposed within the tubular housing and extending along the length thereof between the end caps, one end thereof being coupled to the motor. The housing member is provided with openings that extend longitudinally along one side thereof to provide an entrance port, and openings that extend along another side to provide an outlet or exit port. With the exception of the motor, all other parts can be made of an injection molded plastic, metal, or a combination of plastic and metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: EVGA Corporation
    Inventor: Tai-Sheng (Andrew) Han
  • Publication number: 20080035316
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cooling device (1) for a motor vehicle with a combustion engine (2) comprising a coolant radiator (5) through which air can flow, an axial blower (3) which is arranged behind the coolant radiator (5) in the airflow direction (L), [and] a shroud (6), arranged between the coolant radiator (5) and the axial blower (3), with a shroud ring (7) in which the axial blower (3, 3b) is arranged so it can turn. It is proposed to widen the shroud ring (7) on the air outflow side radially into a flow guidance device (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: BEHR GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Uwe Blass, Ulrich Vollert
  • Publication number: 20080035317
    Abstract: An air conditioner including a housing and a fan within the housing is provided. The fan may be configured to draw air into the housing and direct air radially outward. A heat exchanger may be configured to exchange heat with the air drawn into the housing. Also, at least one airflow guide may be configured to extend into a flow path of the air so that the flow of air is guided through the heat exchanger along a surface of the airflow guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: In Ho CHOI, Dong Soo MOON, Jung Woo LEE, Nam Sik YIM, Seok Ho CHOI, Jeong Yong KIM
  • Publication number: 20080035318
    Abstract: An air conditioner comprises an outdoor heat exchanger having a plate fin whose surface is treated to have water-sliding properties and water repellency and a drain pan arranged under the outdoor heat exchanger. There is a gap throughout between the lower end portion of the outdoor heat exchanger and the upper surface of the drain pan. Water droplets condensed when the outdoor heat exchanger operates as an evaporator fall on the drain pan from the lower end portion of the plate fin. Since the plate fin and the drain pan are not in contact with each other, there is no such case that ice adheres to the contact portion and frost develops therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Toshimitsu Kamada, Shun Yoshioka, Haruo Nakata, Shinichirou Kobayashi, Teruo Kido
  • Publication number: 20080035319
    Abstract: A heat exchanging core for a micro-channel heat exchanger includes at least one heat conducting plate, which has at least one channel formed between a first side and a second side of the heat conducting plate. The at least one channel has a channel length to hydraulic diameter ratio of less than 100, wherein the channel length is defined as a distance between the first and second sides of the heat conducting plate. A micro-channel heat exchanger includes a housing defining a cavity therein, the housing including an inlet and an outlet coupled to the cavity, and a heat exchanging core positioned within the cavity between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet. The present invention provides, among other features, improved heat transfer, reduced pressure drops, and reduced jitter. The present invention can be implemented for laminar flow and/or turbulent flow environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: ASML Holding N.V.
    Inventor: Herman Vogel
  • Publication number: 20080035320
    Abstract: The invention is a heat exchanger system suitable for iron making furnaces and their supporting exhaust and cooling system. The heat exchanger has at least one panel of sinuously winding piping having an inlet and an outlet, an input manifold in fluid communication with the inlet of the at least one panel, an output manifold in fluid communication with the outlet of the panel, a cooling fluid flowing through the piping, and a stream of hot exhaust gases flowing over the piping. In application, the heat exchanger system has at least one panel that is mounted to an interior side of a wall, and is in fluid communication with the output and the input manifolds that are on an exterior side of the wall. The wall typically is a wall of a steel making furnace, a furnace roof, a smoke ring exhaust port, a straight section of an exhaust duct, and a curved section of an exhaust duct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: AMERIFAB, INC.
    Inventors: Richard Manasek, David Kincheloe
  • Publication number: 20080035321
    Abstract: In a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between fluid such as refrigerant and air, an object of the present invention is to extend the surface area of fins while suppressing an increase in ventilation resistance, thereby improving performances of the heat exchanger. Corrugated sheet fins (70) are provided as the fins of the heat exchanger (60). The corrugated sheet fins (70) are each shaped like a corrugated sheet. The ridgeline direction of the waveform of the corrugated sheet fins (70) is orthogonal to front edges and rear edges. In the heat exchanger (60), the plurality of corrugated sheet fins (70) are arranged at constant pitches in the axial direction of the heat transfer tube (61).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Shun Yoshioka, Shuji Ikegami
  • Publication number: 20080035322
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle air conditioning unit (1) which is used to temper the front area of a motor vehicle. Said motor vehicle air conditioning unit comprises one first blower (2), an evaporator (4) and a heater (5) and, optionally, an additional heater (6) and an air channel (10) which is used to ventilate the rear. At least one additional, second blower (13) comprising a blower housing (14) is arranged in the air channel (10) which is used to ventilate the rear. Said air channel (10), which is used to ventilate the rear, is a cold air channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Henri Klein
  • Publication number: 20080035323
    Abstract: The present invention provides an internal and external connecting liquid cooled heat sink device, which includes a holding case, a water tank facility, a heat dissipating unit, pipes and a water cooled head. The holding case retains the water tank facility and the heat dissipating unit connected in series using the pipes. The pipes are connected to a water cooled head to enable circulating and dissipating of heat. The holding case can be removable inserted into a retaining slot of a host computer or independently connected to an outer case of the host computer. Moreover, a plurality of through holes are defined in each heat dissipating fin of a liquid cooled exchange device, thereby enabling the heat dissipating unit to effectively achieve increased heat dissipation effectiveness when circulating and dissipating heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Wen-Han Chen
  • Publication number: 20080035324
    Abstract: A measurement system is provided that includes an integrated optics unit which measures at least one variable of the movement of a conveyance system relative to an oil well during an oil well operation, wherein the at least one variable is a direction of motion, a speed of movement, or a length of movement of the conveyance system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Reinhart Ciglenec, Peter Swinburne
  • Publication number: 20080035325
    Abstract: Under low reservoir pressure in oil well bores, oil extraction is carried out by using pumping equipment, which activates submerged pump through up and down reciprocating sucker rods. Tubing rotators and rod rotators are utilized to increase the efficiency of this pumping equipment. The purpose of rod rotators is to prevent unwanted unscrewing of sucker rods, increase longevity of tubing and sucker rod strings that continually wear against each other, decrease deposits on the walls of tubing during the extraction of oil with high wax or paraffin content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Vagif Ali-zada, Narguiz Ali-zada
  • Publication number: 20080035326
    Abstract: A wear-resistant sealing system for introducing fracturing fluids to a wellhead comprising a tubular connector having a retaining shoulder and bridging a flange interface created between a frachead and a lower tubular structure. The tubular connector has upper and lower sealing elements above and below the flange interface and forms a contiguous bore for fluid communication of the fracturing fluids from the frachead to the lower tubular structure and wellhead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: ISOLATION EQUIPMENT SERVICES INC.
    Inventor: Boris (Bruce) P. Cherewyk
  • Publication number: 20080035327
    Abstract: A method of installing equipment subsea comprising the steps of: assembling the equipment within a frame; submerging in the sea at least a part of an assembly comprising the frame and the equipment; coupling the at least partially submerged assembly to a vessel; transporting the at least partially submerged assembly proximate a subsea installation site; coupling the assembly to an installation device; and installing the equipment at the installation site using the installation device. A frame for supporting equipment is also disclosed wherein the frame is shaped to match the dimensions of the equipment to be supported. The frame comprises at least one clamp having a first half clamp member for releasably engaging a second half clamp member of a second structure and a full clamp member for clamping around and supporting the equipment. The first half clamp member and the full clamp member can be integrally formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Mick Fowkes
  • Publication number: 20080035328
    Abstract: Apparatus if provided for use in wells, particularly wells that have high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in the well. The shells of completion equipment that is required to withstand the rigorous conditions in such wells are increased in strength by laminate layers that are formed of materials having higher yield strength than the yield strength of materials that can be used in well fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas G. Hill, Cecil G. McGavern, Winfield M. Sides, Jason Mailand
  • Publication number: 20080035329
    Abstract: A device for coupling a driver system to a downhole string of sucker rods in a petroleum well employs a polish rod construction in which the polish rod is strengthened by an attached sleeve providing a transverse should in a predetermined plane. The sleeve is shrink fit in place and mechanically adhered to withstand the stresses and shocks encountered in long-term cyclic operation. The device provides specific benefits for an improved sucker rod connection which prestresses the sucker rod pin ends and the coupling in a fashion to resist the development of microcracks and fatigue failures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth Carstensen
  • Publication number: 20080035330
    Abstract: Disclosed is a well screen assembled on a base pipe and having an improved drainage layer disposed between the outer filter material and the base pipe. The improved drainage layer can be formed from a variety of materials and shapes. The drainage layer can be manufactured separately from the base pipe in the form of a tube severed along its length and subsequently assembled on the base pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: William Mark Richards
  • Publication number: 20080035331
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an apparatus, an assembly, and a kit for securing a web collar to a tubular member. According to one embodiment, a sleeve has a plurality of apertures selectively sized and spaced to form a web collar. The web collar is positioned on a segment of casing and is secured in place with set screws. Epoxy is disposed into the apertures and cured. The cured epoxy deposits on the casing are analogous to keys welded to a shaft, extending outwardly into the apertures to secure the web collar and the centralizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Jean Buytaert
  • Publication number: 20080035332
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to perform measurements on fluid in a wellbore fluid sample tool in which at least a portion of the flowline of the sample tool is made of a non-magnetic and non-conductive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert Freedman, Krishnamurthy Ganesan, Douglas W. Grant
  • Publication number: 20080035333
    Abstract: An instrument, such as a wall-thickness, rod-wear, or pitting sensor, can monitor tubing as a field service crew extracts the tubing from an oil well or inserts the tubing into the well. A digital system can process data from the instrument to improve the data's fidelity, quality, or usefulness. Digital signal processing can comprise filtering or otherwise manipulating the data to provide refined data that a person or machine can readily interpret. For example, a graphical representation of the refined data can help an operator evaluate whether a segment of tubing is fit for continued service. Processing tubing data can comprise applying a flexible level of filtering, smoothing, or averaging to the data, wherein the level changes based on a criterion or according to a rule. The level can vary in response to a change in tubing speed, noise in the raw data, or some other parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
  • Publication number: 20080035334
    Abstract: An Instrument, such as a wail-thickness, rod-wear, or pitting sensor, can monitor tubing as a field service crew extracts the tubing from an oil well or inserts the tubing into the well. A computer-based system can process data from the instrument to evaluate the validity of the data. Validating the data can comprise determining whether any features, structures, or patterns present in the data correlate with actual tubing defects or were caused by a condition unrelated to tubing quality, such as signal noise. The computer-based system can also analyze the data to deduce information about the performance of the well or to determine the well's operating state or status. For example, the data analysis can determine whether the well's fluids have a chemical condition that should be treated or whether a detrimental harmonic oscillation has been occurring in the well's mechanical pumping system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
  • Publication number: 20080035335
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for displaying depth of positional data with tubing analysis data obtained by instruments analyzing tubing sections being withdrawn from a well includes an apparatus for communicably linking an encoder or other positional or depth sensors to the tubing analysis data processor. In addition, sensors capable of detected collars holding pieces of tubing section together can transmit signals to the analysis data processor that a collar has been detected and insert collar location information into the analysis data. Furthermore, information based on the length of the individual pieces of tubing or the data from the encoder or other positional sensor can be analyzed or associated with the analysis data and displayed with the analysis data by overlaying a depth component on a display of the analysis data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
  • Publication number: 20080035336
    Abstract: Three phase separator systems for separating mixtures downhole are provided that utilize fluid isolation devices or packers to allow sections of casing to separate water, oil, and gas through gravity separation. By utilizing two or more vertical sections of a downhole casing, gravity separation of multiple phases may be accomplished. For example, one vertical section of casing may be used to allow the gravity separation of a liquid mixture and a gas therein while a second vertical section of casing may be used to separate the liquid mixture into a water phase and an oil phase. Numerous other components such as pumps, piping, and valves may form part of the separation system depending on the particular embodiment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Louis Cognata
  • Publication number: 20080035337
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a silicone-tackifier matrix composition that comprises at least one silicone polymer component, at least one tackifying agent, and at least one curing agent and/or at least one cross linking agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: B. Reddy, Michael Segura, Philip Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20080035338
    Abstract: Many methods and compositions are provided. One of the methods provided comprises the steps of: providing an aqueous treatment fluid that comprises a polysaccharide and a dual functional component, the aqueous treatment fluid having a first viscosity; allowing the dual functional component to interact with the polysaccharide such that the viscosity of the aqueous treatment fluid increases to a second viscosity, the second viscosity being greater than the first viscosity; placing the aqueous treatment fluid into a subterranean formation; and allowing the dual functional component to interact with the polysaccharide so as to reduce the second viscosity of the aqueous treatment fluid to a third viscosity, the third viscosity being less than the second viscosity. An example of a composition is a viscosified treatment fluid for treating subterranean formations comprising: an aqueous base fluid and an apparent cross linked reaction product of a polysaccharide and a dual functional component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Richard W. Pauls, Thomas D. Welton, David E. McMechan, Jason Bryant
  • Publication number: 20080035339
    Abstract: Among many things, compositions and methods relating to the prevention and remediation of surfactant gel damage are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a treatment fluid comprising a carrier fluid and at least one component selected from the group consisting of a chelating agent and a scale control agent, and introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation that has been treated with a viscoelastic surfactant fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas D. Welton, Jason E. Bryant, David E. McMechan
  • Publication number: 20080035340
    Abstract: Among many things, compositions and methods relating to the prevention and remediation of surfactant gel damage are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a treatment fluid comprising a carrier fluid; at least one component selected from the group consisting of a chelating agent and a scale control agent; at least one component selected from the group consisting of an alcohol, a glycol, a pH modifier, a hydrocarbon, a mutual solvent, an oxidizer, a reducer, an enzyme, a transition metal, a combination thereof, and a derivative thereof; and at least one component selected from the group consisting of a nonemulsifier, a demulsifier, a combination thereof, and a derivative thereof, and introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas D. Welton, Jason E. Bryant, David E. McMechan
  • Publication number: 20080035341
    Abstract: Methods of acidizing subterranean formations or well bores, and more specifically, to acidizing systems involving acid-generating fluids that comprise acid-generating compounds and associated methods are provided. An example is a method that comprises: providing an acid-generating fluid that comprises an acid-generating compound; placing the acid-generating fluid into a subterranean formation; and allowing an acid to generate from the acid-generating fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Rajesh K. Saini, Bradley L. Todd, David E. McMechan, Thomas D. Welton, Richard W. Pauls
  • Publication number: 20080035342
    Abstract: Methods of acidizing subterranean formations or well bores, and more specifically, to acidizing systems involving acid-generating fluids that comprise acid-generating compounds and associated methods are provided. An example of a method of the present invention comprises: providing an acid-generating fluid that comprises an acid-generating compound; placing the acid-generating fluid into a well bore penetrating a subterranean formation; and allowing the acid-generating compound to produce an acid that then acidizes at least a portion of the subterranean formation or damage contained in the formation or well bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Rajesh K. Saini, Bradley L. Todd, David E. McMechan, Thomas D. Welton, Richard W. Pauls
  • Publication number: 20080035343
    Abstract: A delayed gelling system useful in conformance control in the production of petroleum from subterranean formations, especially low permeability formations, is disclosed. The gelling system comprises a basic silica sol, an activator comprising a hydroxyl donor, and an optional syneresis inhibitor. In the disclosed method of using the gelling system, the gelling system may be pumped into formations with excessive water and/or gas production and thermally activated in the formation at downhole conditions to form a hard gel to reduce water and/or gas production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Nadir M.M. Odeh, Hassan Chaabouni, Keng Seng Chan, Philippe Enkababian
  • Publication number: 20080035344
    Abstract: A delayed gelling system useful in conformance control in the production of petroleum from subterranean formations is disclosed. The gelling system comprises an acidic aqueous solution of acid-soluble or cationic polyacrylamide, an at least partially neutralized acid aluminum salt, an activator comprising a hydroxyl donor, and an optional gel modifier. The gelling system may be pumped into formations with excessive water production and thermally activated in the formation at downhole conditions to form a co-gel of polyacrylamide interspersed in an inorganic gel network to reduce water production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Nadir Odeh, Mathew Samuel, Philippe Enkababian, Keng Seng Chan
  • Publication number: 20080035345
    Abstract: In a well stimulation method, a subsurface formation is fractured by freezing a water-containing zone within the formation in the vicinity of a well, thereby generating expansive pressures which expand or created cracks and fissures in the formation. The frozen zone is then allowed to thaw. This freeze-thaw process causes rock particles in existing cracks and fissures to become dislodged and reoriented therewithin, and also causes new or additional rock particles to become disposed within both existing and newly-formed cracks and fissures. The particles present in the cracks and fissures act as natural proppants to help keep the cracks and fissures open, thereby facilitating the flow of fluids from the formation into the well after the formation has thawed. Preferably, the freeze-thaw steps are carried out on a cyclic basis. Optionally, propagation of the freezing front into the formation may be enhanced by the introduction of low-frequency wave energy into the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Darrell S. KOSAKEWICH
  • Publication number: 20080035346
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and heaters for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. At least one method for producing transportation fuel is described herein. The method for producing transportation fuel may include providing formation fluid having a boiling range distribution between ?5° C. and 350° C. from a subsurface in situ heat treatment process to a subsurface treatment facility. A liquid stream may be separated from the formation fluid. The separated liquid stream may be hydrotreated and then distilled to produce a distilled stream having a boiling range distribution between 150° C. and 350° C. The distilled liquid stream may be combined with one or more additives to produce transportation fuel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Vijay Nair, Augustinus Roes, Ralph Cherrillo, Joanna Bauldreay
  • Publication number: 20080035347
    Abstract: Heaters for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. Such heaters can be obtained by using the systems and methods described herein. The heater includes a heater section including iron, cobalt, and carbon. The heater section has a Curie temperature less than a phase transformation temperature. The Curie temperature is at least 740° C. The heater section provides, when time varying current is applied to the heater section, an electrical resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Michael Brady, Joseph Horton, John Vitek
  • Publication number: 20080035348
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and heaters for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. Systems and methods for making heaters are described herein. At least one heater includes a ferromagnetic conductor and an electrical conductor. The electrical conductor is electrically coupled to the ferromagnetic conductor. The heater provides a first amount of heat at a lower temperature. The heater may provide a second reduced amount of heat when the heater reaches a selected temperature, or enters a selected temperature range, at which the ferromagnetic conductor undergoes a phase transformation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: John Vitek, Michael Brady, Joseph Horton
  • Publication number: 20080035349
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for perforating a liner, fracturing a formation, and injecting or producing fluid, sand-free. The tool has a plurality of outwardly telescoping elements for perforation, fracturing, and sand control. The tool also has a mechanical control device for selectively controlling the fracturing of the formation and the injection or production of fluids through the telescoping elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Bennett Richard
  • Publication number: 20080035350
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling inflow of fluid into a production string. In aspects, the invention provides a downhole sand screen and inflow control device with a gas or water shut-off feature that can be operated mechanically or hydraulically from the surface of the well. The device also preferably includes a bypass feature that allows the inflow control device to be closed or bypassed via shifting of a sleeve. In embodiments, the flow control device can be adaptive to changes in wellbore conditions such as chemical make-up, fluid density and temperature. Exemplary adaptive inflow control devices include devices configured to control flow in response to changes in gas/oil ratio, water/oil ratio, fluid density and/or the operating temperature of the inflow control device. In other aspects of the present invention, inflow control devices are utilized to control the flow of commingled fluids drained via two or more wellbores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Knut Henriksen, Craig Coull, Erik Helsengreen
  • Publication number: 20080035351
    Abstract: A fairing for the reduction of vortex-induced vibration and the minimization of drag about a substantially cylindrical element immersed in a fluid medium. The fairing also eliminates the galloping phenomenon typically associated with a teardrop-shaped fairing. The fairing having a U-shaped cylindrical shell with opposing edges defining a longitudinal gap and parallel fins extending outwardly from the opposing edges of the shell, the parallel fins being positioned so as to reduce vortex-induced vibration, minimize drag and to eliminate the galloping phenomenon on the cylindrical element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Rodney H. Masters, Randy W. Masters, Michael Sykes
  • Publication number: 20080035352
    Abstract: A device is provided, the device comprising a downhole tool comprising a wire comprising at least one strand comprising a low thermal expansion material. The low thermal expansion material may have a low electrical resistance material disposed thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Luis San Martin, Evan Davies
  • Publication number: 20080035353
    Abstract: An improved flapper valve is disclosed comprising a housing, a flapper pivotally engaged to the housing, and an actuator slidingly engaged in the housing and adapted to make initial contact with the flapper at a seat end. The seat end is an area surrounding a point on a flapper bottom surface that is furthest from the location of pivotal engagement of the flapper and the housing but not in contact with the housing. The flapper closes at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis of the housing. The actuator is hollow and the interior of the actuator forms a through bore. In the closed position the flapper prevents fluid from the passing through the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: William James Hughes, Richard W. Adams
  • Publication number: 20080035354
    Abstract: The instant invention relates to a super absorbent polymeric material which when added to water enhances the fire extinguishing properties of the water. In particular, a pre-measured quantity of the polymeric material is added to a conventional water based canister capable of holding 2.5 gallons of pressurized water. The aqueous solution provides enhanced Class A & B fire extinguishing properties and is capable of long term storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Peter Cordani
  • Publication number: 20080035355
    Abstract: A turf slicer includes a gang of six slicer wheels that “walk” through the turf in response to the forward motion of the turf slicer. In the meantime, the power takeoff from the tractor vertically oscillates the slicer wheels out of phase with one another, so that every sixth wheel is being thrust downwardly to bear most of the weight of the turf slicer as the other five wheels in the gang of six are either being withdrawn upwardly or moved downwardly and do not bear much weight, so that the weight of the turf slicer is concentrated on the downwardly moving slicer wheel that is approaching bottom dead center of its movement, thereby amplifying the effective weight of the turf slicer against the turf below.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Donald C. Jones, Carroll J. Whitfield, Robert Funk
  • Publication number: 20080035356
    Abstract: A utility vehicle includes front and rear wheel assemblies, a frame supported on the front and rear wheel assemblies, and an operator compartment supported on the frame and having operator controls. The frame includes a central, tubular frame member having a front end portion and a rear end portion. An engine is supported on the frame for providing power to the front and rear wheel assemblies. A cooling assembly mounted above the engine. An attachment arm is attached to the front portion of the frame and a rear interface mount is rigidly attached to the rear portion of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Dahl, Thomas J. Tokach, Jason Webster
  • Publication number: 20080035357
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connection between the lift arm and lift shaft of an implement hitch. There is a need for such a connection which is less subject to wear. The lift arm has an end with a opening which receives an end of the lift shaft. The ends of the lift shaft and the openings of the lift arm are of substantially complementary design to one another. The openings of the lift arms and the ends of the lift shaft have a polygonal cross sectional shape, thus forming a polygonal connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Martin Heitlinger