Abstract: A leg/elbow fixing device including a support bar having two connecting sections and two bracket assemblies fixable on the leg or elbow of a user. The bracket assemblies are adjustably located on the connecting sections of the support bar. Each bracket assembly includes a locating mechanism having a cavity in which the connecting section of the support bar is fitted. A receptacle is formed on top face of the cavity. A locating assembly is received in the receptacle. Each connecting section of the support bar is formed with notches. The locating assembly includes two arresting members each having a projecting block engaged with any of the notches of the support bar. The locating assembly further includes a restoring member compressed between the arresting members and a stop section. The stop section includes an upper cover and a cover member. The cover member is fixed in the receptacle for preventing the arresting members and restoring member from bounding out.

Abstract: A vaporizer device that uses a flame for vaporizing flavor and psychoactive compounds from smoking materials such as tobacco. The present device has a filter unit 34 with a porous flame filter 36. The flame filter 36 can be made of open-cell ceramic or metal foam, sintered ceramic or metal granules or other porous, heat resistant materials. In use, flame is supplied to the flame filter, and inhalation causes ambient air to enter the flame filter as well. The flame exhaust and ambient air are mixed within the flame filter and produce an air stream of intermediate temperature. The intermediate temperature air stream is hot enough to vaporize desirable components from the smoking material, but generally is not hot enough to burn the smoking material. The temperature of the air stream can be controlled by adjusting the amount of flame supplied to the flame filter 36.

Abstract: An additive material is applied to a substrate, such as a paper web used as a wrapping material for cigarette manufacture. A predetermined pattern of additive material is applied to the outer surface of the wrapping material of a formed cigarette, and most preferably of a formed filtered cigarette. In particular, an application system for applying additive material of a controlled type, in a controlled manner and in a controlled location on the wrapping material of a formed two-up filtered cigarette rod is located within a tipping machine. During controlled rotation of each such formed rod (e.g., due to cooperation of a transfer drum and a laser cam), additive material is applied to the outer surface of a desired location of the wrapping material of each such rod.

Abstract: A tobacco odor deodorant contains the components of at least two component groups selected from five component of (I) octanal, nonanal and/or decanal, (II) linalool, (III) carvone, (IV) methyl anthranilate and/or N-methyl anthranilate, and (V) sinensal and/or orange peel essential oil sinensal fraction.

Abstract: A water guide of a dishwasher checks the flow of water draining from the dishwasher. The water guide includes a drain passage having one end communicating with an outer atmosphere and another end communicating with a sump for receiving washing water, at least part of the drain passage being routed via a point higher than a water level in the sump, and a valve assembly, disposed above the drain passage, for selectively introducing external air into the drain passage.

Abstract: The present invention provides a spin cleaning and drying apparatus of single-wafer processing type which cleans a substrate with a cleaning liquid from a rinse nozzle while rotating the substrate and dries the substrate after cleaning while rotating the substrate, comprising: a spin chuck which holds and rotates the substrates; a cup which has an opening on an upper side, a water discharge port and an exhaust gas port in a bottom portion, and encloses the spin chuck; a flow regulating plate which has a gas injection port in a middle and is provided so as to be able to move backward and forward to a position opposed to the substrate and spaced therefrom at a prescribed distance and to an upward or sideward retracted position; and an exhaust cover, having multiple slit holes each with a hood which opens to an upper surface, is provided below the spin chuck.

Abstract: Apparatus for and a method of cleaning or processing a wafer anticipates a malfunction of a pump and avoids an abrupt shutting down of the pump during the cleaning or processing of the wafer. The apparatus includes a tank vessel containing a liquid used in the cleaning or processing of the wafer, a pump that pumps the liquid chemical from the vessel, a filter that filters impurities contained in the liquid pumped by the pump, a heater that heats the filtered liquid to a predetermined temperature and supplies the heated liquid back into the tank vessel, and a pump malfunction anticipation unit that operates at the same time as the pump. The pump malfunction anticipation unit calculates the flow rate of the liquid pumped by the pump using a program, and based on the flow rate anticipates when it is time to replace the pump.

Abstract: An isolated semiconductor wafer platen is disclosed for use in high pressure processing. The use of vacuum chucking for holding a semiconductor wafer during processing is well known in the art and can be applied to high pressure systems as well, but some difficulties can arise under high pressure processes. Small deflections in even very thick metal support platens can lead to backside wafer wear, platen abrasion, and even breakage of semiconductor wafers. This invention discloses a method to eliminate the transfer of flexure inherent in high pressure vessel walls, yet still retain the vacuum chucking method.

Abstract: A lightweight vertical attachment shield that forms a canopy like structure for protection from falling rain when the vertical attachment shield is attached underneath any conventional umbrella in an open arrangement. The vertical attachment shield is attached about the circumference of the conventional umbrella via spring-loaded plastic clips and elastic nooses. When attached to a conventional umbrella, the vertical attachment shield has a length that extends a few inches from the ground. The vertical attachment shield includes a clear view window, as well as vent and hand openings for added convenience and comfort for the user. Alternatively, the vertical shield attachment shield attaches to unique designed umbrella via snap buttons located around the upper rim of the vertical attachment shield and on the underside of the unique designed umbrella. A vertical umbrella stand is utilized to aid in assembling and disassembling the present invention.

Abstract: An ergonomic collapsible crutch for providing assistance with ambulatory movement of a user, the crutch including a supporting member having an underarm support surface and a hand grip portion, a gripping pad disposed remotely from the underarm support surface generally along a vertical axis and connected to the supporting member to provide stability and grip on surfaces of a walking environment, and a hand grip attached to the hand grip portion of the supporting member so that the handgrip extends from the supporting member at an angle from the vertical axis ranging from about 85° to about 60° and from about 95° to about 120°. The ergonomic collapsible crutch may also include a shock absorbing device and buttons for adjusting the height of the crutch as well as the position of the hand grip. The hand grip may also be ergonomically contoured for improved use by a user.

Abstract: A double check valve that generally includes a modular fluid casing having a main housing, a one-piece modular cage, and at least one in-line check valve removably housed in the modular cage.

Abstract: A valve assembly for a dunnage bag wherein in one embodiment of the valve a valve diaphragm is mounted on a shaft and is supported by a mounting bar such that the valve diaphragm may be reciprocally moved from the closed position to the open position by a simple axial push on the valve shaft. The valve shaft is retained in the mounting bar in an orifice and the shaft diameter is enlarged at its end distant from the valve diaphragm so as to generate a frictional force fit or lock in the open position to facilitate the removal of air from the bag. The valve may be released form the friction lock by the air pressure of a recharged bag and/or by the manual movement of the valve diaphragm and shaft axially toward the open end of the valve assembly. In an alternate embodiment, the valve diaphragm is mounted to a valve stem that it rotationally and axially moveably connected to the valve body.

Abstract: A valve assembly includes an automatic excess flow shut-off mechanism for preventing excess flow between an inlet and an outlet of the assembly. The excess flow shut-off mechanism is adapted to automatically stop fluid flow through the valve assembly when the flow exceeds a specified flow rate. The excess flow shut-off mechanism prevents flow when it's set and allows flow when it's reset. The valve assembly also includes a manual set mechanism for setting the excess flow shut-off mechanism even when there is no excess flow. The valve assembly additionally includes a manual reset mechanism for resetting the shut-off mechanism and for allowing excess flow.

Abstract: The invention relates to a non-return valve for a pump, in particular a fuel pump, with a housing (2) in which a valve seat (3) is embodied, a closing body (4) and a cage element. The closing body (4) is arranged within the cage element, whereby the cage body is embodied in two pieces. The cage element comprises a guide element (5) and a stop element (6), such that a functional separation of the regions of the cage element with various functions is possible.

Abstract: A valve is provided that comprises a valve body including an inlet, an outlet, and a check valve chamber having an opening through the side of the valve body. The valve has a cover secured within the side opening in the valve body. A first valve opening is disposed between the inlet chamber and outlet chamber. A control valve is movable relative to the first valve opening to regulate fluid flow through the first opening when fluid flow is in the inlet-to-outlet direction, and is movable to engage the first valve opening to restrict fluid flow in the outlet-to-inlet direction. The valve comprises a passageway between the inlet and check valve chambers, and a second valve opening disposed between the check valve and outlet chambers. A check valve is disposed within the check valve chamber, and is movable relative to the second valve opening to restrict forward flow and permit reverse flow through the second valve opening.

Abstract: A machining method for an integrated piping plate, for example, composed of a plurality of plates joined together, and in which an instrument and a component constituting an apparatus, or the instrument, or the component are or is disposed on one surface or both surfaces of the integrated piping plate, and the instrument and the component, or the instrument, or the component are or is connected by fluid channel grooves formed in joining surfaces of the plates, and communication holes formed in the plates. The machining method welds the joining surfaces of the plates around the entire periphery of the fluid channel grooves, for example, by an FSW welding machine, to join the plates. Compared with joining of the plates by an adhesive, the machining method can increase the durability of the plate joining portion and increase pressure resistance. Also, the method can increase work efficiency and further downsize the integrated piping plate.

Abstract: A hose and a method of producing the same. The hose includes a tubular resin inner layer, a metal plating layer formed on an outer peripheral surface of the resin inner layer, and a resin outer layer formed on an outer peripheral surface of the metal plating layer, wherein a chromium oxide film is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the resin inner layer and a metal film is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the chromium oxide film between the resin inner layer and the metal plating layer and the metal plating layer is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the metal film. Further, a chromium oxide film is formed between the metal plating layer and the resin outer layer.

Abstract: A pressurized actuator system for simultaneously deploying a plurality of inflatable floatation devices or other structures for a rotorcraft or other mobile or stationary devices includes a plurality of primary sources of pressurized fluid adapted for deploying a corresponding number of inflatable structures, a plurality of primary valves that are each operatively associated with one of the primary sources, a plurality of pressure-responsive primary transducers operative to open a different one of the primary valves, and a secondary source of pressurized fluid adapted for simultaneously operating the primary transducers to thereby open the primary valves and simultaneously deploy the plurality of inflatable structures.

Abstract: A vacuum line connected to a robotic device is run into a reactor vessel. The robotic device has a rotating body, a cleaning arm, and stabilizing arms to stabilize the robotic device within the reactor vessel. The robotic device may be controlled/monitored from a remote control station in communication with the robotic device.

Abstract: A chamber dropper bottle is disclosed that is sized to contain medicine. The dropper bottle includes a central recess in a bottom wall of the bottle. The recess is sized to accommodate a single dose of medicine. A central tapered cylindrical dropper chamber extends into the recess, while an annular medicine chamber is positioned about the central tapered cylindrical dropper chamber. The central tapered cylindrical dropper chamber includes one or more apertures sized to allow fluid to flow between the annular medicine chamber, the central tapered cylindrical dropper chamber and the recess.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing apparatus and method for using same, including a dispenser for dispensing liquid such as water to a user. A liquid container is located below the dispenser and removably attachable to a pivoting cradle engaging the liquid container. The cradle may be pivoted about an axis located adjacent an exit location for liquid within the liquid container. A filling device may be located below the liquid container for removably engaging the liquid container in fluid communication.

Abstract: A jig apparatus for aiding in the formation of a variety of mechanically interconnecting structures or joints in workpieces. The jig apparatus may include a base and a template mounting system for adjustably positioning a template with respect to the base. A securing system for securing a workpiece in a desired position may be included. The jig apparatus may also include a repeatable template positioning system. Additionally, a quick-change template guide system may be used with a router and template for removing material from a workpiece. A router bit positioning system for aiding in establishing a pre-determined bit depth may be included.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tire for heavy vehicle of the agricultural or construction type, comprising a carcass reinforcement radially surmounted by a crown reinforcement, itself topped radially by a tread, said tread being joined to two beads by means of two sidewalls. According to the invention, the tire is such that the form ratio H/S is less than 0.75 and the ratio of the width of the tread A to the height of deflection B of the crown is greater than 17.

Abstract: A tread surface 2 is divided by inner and outer longitudinal grooves 3a and 3b located on opposite sides of the tire equator into a central land portion 4i, intermediate land portions 4m and shoulder land portions 4o. The intermediate land portion 4i includes an inclined grooves 9 having an angle ? with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire, and the angle is increased from an inner end (mi) away from the inner longitudinal grooves 3a by a small distance La to an outer end (mo) where the intermediate land portion intersects with the outer longitudinal grooves 3b. An angle ?i in the inner end (mi) is 0 to 25°, and an angle ?o in the outer end (mo) is 60 to 80°. A pitch P1 of the inclined grooves 9 in the circumferential direction is greater than a pitch P2 of lug grooves 5 provided in the shoulder land portion 4o in the circumferential direction.

Abstract: A pneumatic tire comprises: a tread portion; a pair of sidewall portions; a pair of bead portions each with a bead core therein; a carcass having a main portion extending between the bead portions; a belt disposed radially outside the carcass in the tread portion; a bead apex disposed in each of the bead portions and extending radially outwardly from the bead core, wherein the radial height h1 of the radially outer edge of the bead apex rubber is not more than 28% of the tire section height H; and a sidewall reinforcing rubber layer disposed in each of the sidewall portions and extending along the carcass main portion at least between a radial position corresponding to the radial position of the radially outer edge of the bead apex rubber and an axial position corresponding to the axial position of the axially outer edge of the belt, wherein the sidewall reinforcing rubber layer has a thickness in a range of from 0.5 to 1.5 mm and a complex elastic modulus E* in a range of from 13 to 16 MPa.

Abstract: An air-blowing unit includes a blower unit including an irreversible fan, a first blower-side duct connected to an inlet port of the blower unit, a second blower-side duct connected to an air discharge port of the blower unit, a first air opening-side duct including a first air opening, a second air opening-side duct including a second air opening, and an air passage switching device disposed between the blower-side ducts and the air opening-side ducts. The air passage switching device switches air passage connection between the blower-side ducts and the air opening-side ducts.

Abstract: A system with an internal combustion engine which has a heat transfer circuit, a fuel cell and a climate control unit which is accommodated in the heat transfer circuit of the internal combustion engine. The system has a heat transfer arrangement for transferring the exhaust heat of the fuel cell to the heat transfer circuit and a bypass for bridging a segment of the heat transfer circuit which runs through the internal combustion engine so that, in the bypassed operating state, an isolated circuit is formed. In stationary operation, this enables an optimized operating mode since the internal combustion engine is no longer heated and the exhaust heat of the fuel cell is fully available for heating purposes.

Abstract: A heat dissipation apparatus (10) includes a heat-dissipating fan (14) and a fin assembly (12). The heat-dissipating fan includes a casing (141) and a plurality of blades (142) rotatably received in the casing. The casing defines an air outlet (148) through which an airflow generated by the blades flows. The fin assembly is disposed at the air outlet of the fan, and includes a plurality of first fins (121) and a plurality of second fins (122) disposed between the first fins and the blades of the fan. The second fins are so positioned that outer ends of the second fins are oriented toward a far side of the air outlet while inner ends of the second fins are oriented toward a near side of the air outlet. The outer ends of the second fins are located adjacent to the first fins. An airflow generated by the blades first flows to the near side and then to the far side of the air outlet.

Abstract: A roof module (10) for a motor vehicle, with an integrated climate control system (12, 14, 16, 18). Furthermore, the roof module (10) includes a fuel cell system (32, 34, 38). The roof module (10) is preferably a pre-mounted complete motor vehicle roof with bordering modules, preferably with extra integrated functions.

Abstract: A multiple zoned air conditioning system for providing air conditioning to the interior of an automotive vehicle. The air conditioning system includes a main air conditioning module with a first heat exchanger for cooling and with a second heat exchanger for heating, as well as a multiple zone module. The main air conditioning module creates, in cooperation with the multiple zone module, at least one first air flow conditioned for temperature. The multiple zone module is interchangeably disposed in the main air conditioning module, with the second heat exchanger engaging the multiple zone module so as to allow air flow therethrough, when the multiple zone module is disposed on the main air conditioning module.

Abstract: A surface controlled subsurface lateral branch safety valve provides flow control for each branch wellbore in a multilateral well. In a described embodiment, a completion system for a well having an intersection between parent and branch wellbores includes an apparatus having multiple passages formed therethrough. One passage provides fluid communication between opposite ends of the apparatus in the parent wellbore, and another passage provides guidance for drilling the branch wellbore. The apparatus further includes a flow control device, such as a surface controlled subsurface safety valve, which selectively controls fluid communication with the branch wellbore.

Abstract: An elevator having a safety lock is provided to prevent the inadvertent release of a tubular. In one embodiment, the elevator includes a body for supporting the tubular and a locking apparatus activatable by an upset portion of the tubular, the safety locking apparatus adapted to prevent the tubular handling apparatus from releasing the tubular when activated. In another embodiment, the elevator is provided with a secondary override locking device for the safety lock so that jarring operations may be performed using the elevator.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for preventing pollution of a groundwater borehole, which increase water-tightness. The apparatus for preventing pollution of a groundwater borehole has a structure that both sides of an underwater motor pump supported by a first intake pipe having a groundwater borehole for discharging groundwater to the outside are all supported inside a second intake pipe connected with the first intake pipe. The apparatus always maintains balance of the motor pump inside the intake pipes, thereby preventing displacement occurring by supporting only a side of the motor pump like the prior arts, and preventing water leakage and providing watertight efficiency by maintaining the close contact efficiency of an induction pipe connector mounted inside the second intake pipe.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a system and method for forming a seal within tubing is provided. A section of tubing is installed in a borehole. The tubing has an inflatable element disposed along an inner surface of the tubing. The inflatable element is predisposed to expand inwardly under fluid pressure. A fluid pressure is applied to the inflatable element using a tool within the tubing, and the inflatable element is expanded to form a seal within the tubing.

Abstract: A cup tool for use with a high-pressure mandrel of a wellhead isolation tool has a three-part packoff assembly that slides over a cup tool tube from an unset position to a set position. The three-part pack off assembly includes an elastomeric cup, a rigid alignment ring located above the elastomeric cup and an elastomeric packoff element located above the rigid alignment ring. The rigid alignment ring helps ensure that the elastomeric cup remains correctly aligned in a casing or tubing that is not straight, is out of round or is washed, and helps ensure that the elastomeric packoff achieves a high-pressure seal in the set position, even under adverse downhole conditions.

Abstract: An apparatus for expanding a tubular member comprising a support member, an expansion device for radially expanding the tubular member movably coupled to the support member for longitudinal displacement relative to the support member, at least one pressure chamber defined by and positioned between the support member and expansion device, and one or more releasable supports coupled to the support member adapted to support the tubular member, wherein the releasable supports are positioned above the expansion device.

Abstract: A method and associated apparatus continuously optimizes reservoir, well and surface network systems by using monitoring data and downhole control devices to continuously change the position of a downhole intelligent control valve (ICV) (12) until a set of characteristics associated with the “actual” monitored data is approximately equal to, or is not significantly different than, a set of characteristics associated with “target” data that is provided by a reservoir simulator (32). A control pulse (18) having a predetermined signature is transmitted downhole thereby changing a position of the ICV. In response, a sensor (14) generates signals representing, “actual” monitoring data. A simulator (32) which models a reservoir layer provides “target” data.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a method is provided for preventing formation of sludge in a subsurface cavity having particulate laden fluid disposed therein. The method includes positioning a downhole device having a fluid agitator into the fluid of the subsurface cavity and agitating the fluid using the fluid agitator.

Abstract: A system and a method for prediction and treatment of all kinds of slugs being formed in a flow line system or wellbore tubing transporting a multiphase fluid towards a downstream process including a separator or a slug catcher at the process inlet. The system includes a slug detector (1) located downstream of the point for slug initiation and upstream of the process and a computer unit (4) integrating the flow line system and the downstream process including software which determines the type of the slug, its volume and predicts its arrival time into the downstream process. The computer unit processes all its incoming data to obtain an optimum regulation of the process so that process perturbations due to incoming slugs are reduced to a minimum through the process.

Abstract: An expander tool includes segments capable of deflecting inward in response to a restriction encountered while expanding a tubular downhole. The expander tool includes an inner mandrel having a tapered surface about its outside diameter, the segments disposed around the inner mandrel with corresponding tapered surfaces in contact with the tapered surface of the inner mandrel and a compression sleeve disposed around the inner mandrel. A compressive load on the compression sleeve applies a preload force biasing the segments to a raised position on the tapered surface and hence an extended position. This preload enables expansion of the tubular with the segments in the extended position. Upon reaching the restriction, an increased pull force on the expander tool forces the segments down the tapered surface of the inner mandrel against the bias of the preload to a retracted position such that the expander tool assumes a smaller maximum outer diameter.

Abstract: A percussion apparatus and method of using the percussion apparatus. The apparatus may be used for delivering an impact to a tubular string. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical member having an internal bore containing an anvil and a first guide profile. The apparatus further includes a rotor disposed within the internal bore, and wherein the rotor member comprises a body having an outer circumference with a second guide profile thereon, and wherein the rotor contains a radial hammer face. In a first position, the second external guide profile of the rotor will engage with the first guide profile of the cylindrical member so that the radial hammer face can contact the anvil. In a second position, the second guide profile of the rotor will engage with the first guide profile of the cylindrical member so that the radial hammer face is separated from the anvil shoulder. Multiple rotors and multiple stators may be employed. The rotor may be operatively associated with a stator that directs flow into the rotor.

Abstract: This invention provides a production riser system that enables fluid communication in a deepwater drilling environment through the use of a variable buoyancy device supporting both a hybrid riser tower and an steel catenary riser (SCR) system. Fluid communication is enabled between a surface production facility or unloading buoy and local and remote subsea (or remote non-subsea) production and export systems.

Abstract: The circulation tool 10 for use downhole in a well includes a housing 22 having one or more bypass ports 52 for circulation between a bore 33 in the housing and an annulus surrounding the housing. Sleeve 50 is axially movable within the housing, and axially spaced seals 36, 56 seal between the sleeve and the housing when the sleeve is in the closed position. A flapper 84 is pivotally mounted to the sleeve, and includes a seat about a central bore 85 in the flapper for engagement with the plug. A stop 40 prevents pivoting of the flapper to an open position until the sleeve has moved axially and the seals seal between the sleeve and the housing.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for actuation of downhole tools. In one example, a deep set safety valve uses a magnetic coupling which permits a portion of the safety valve at control line pressure to be isolated from tubing string internal pressure, without requiring the use of a dynamic seal therebetween. A piston of the safety valve may be displaced in response to a differential between control line pressure and pressure in an annulus surrounding the tubing string, pressure in another control line, or pressure in the tubing string. Other types of well tools may benefit from actuation using principles of the invention.

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 system for fighting a fire in an enclosed space has at least one container (3) for holding a fire extinguishing agent under pressure. A pipe system connects a container outlet to a discharge in the enclosed space. A controllable flow control valve (5) in the pipe system is responsive to a flow control signal generated by a control unit (4) in response to sensed characteristics (pressure and/or temperature) of the agent. A trigger action initially opens the container to the pipe system. The valve is initially held open until concentration (A) of fire extinguishing agent in the enclosed space is sufficient to suffocate a started fire. Thereafter, the valve is opened intermittently to maintain a lower concentration of fire extinguishing agent in the space sufficient to prevent rekindling. More than one container may be used but only one is equipped with a valve controllable by a control unit.

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: One embodiment includes an apparatus comprising a surface slip to support drill tubing and having a communications instrument.

Abstract: A system for controlling sensor motion during a time-dependent measurement, comprising a drilling assembly having a drill bit at one end and engaged with a drill string extending to a surface location at an opposite end thereof. A sensor is disposed in the drilling assembly for making a measurement of a formation parameter of interest. A non-rotating stabilizer is disposed in the drilling assembly proximate the sensor. The non-rotating stabilizer is adapted to reduce motion of the sensor below a predetermined level during the measurement. In one embodiment the rotational axis of the stabilizer is eccentric with respect to the borehole. In another embodiment, the non-rotating stabilizer has an extendable rib for changing the effective diameter of the stabilizer.

Abstract: Roller cone drill bits may be formed with cutting elements and cutting structures having cutting element profile angles selected to minimize cone wobble and improve life of associated bearings and seals. Normal force axes of the cutting elements may intersect with each other as a force center. Crest points of the cutting elements may be disposed on one or more circles extending from the associated force center.