Patents Issued in April 12, 2011
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Patent number: 7921879Abstract: A pilot valve (3) is designed as a directional control valve in which a control slide (20) is movably disposed in a longitudinal bore (22) of the valve body (21) so as to control the flow of hydraulic oil between two working connecting bores (A, B), a pump connecting bore (P), and a reservoir connecting bore (T). A check valve (32) which is biased with the aid of a bias spring (33) is disposed within the control slide (20). The check valve (32) is connected to an auxiliary control groove (28) via a first transversal bore (29) while being connected to the B-reservoir groove (23) via a second transversal bore (31). The check valve (32) is to be opened from working connecting bore B while the auxiliary control groove (28) is arranged between the B control groove (24) and the B reservoir groove (23) and is delimited on both sides by means of sealing cylindrical areas (35, 36).Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Bucher Hydraulics AGInventor: Markus Eschweiler
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Patent number: 7921880Abstract: An integrated three-way poppet valve is disclosed with an intermediate pilot port and an integral load holding check valve. The valve incorporates a reverse flow check poppet for load hold capability, which enables a lower cost solution compared to a combination of valves of similar functionality. A control method is also disclosed using an integrated three-way poppet valve to control the flow of hydraulic oil to a cylinder, hydraulic motor, or other hydraulic device in proportion to the amount of a current applied to a solenoid coil. Depending on the current applied, the valve blocks all flow or else permits flow from one inlet port to two outlet ports proportional to the current applied.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: HydraForce, Inc.Inventors: Randall S. Jackson, Anthony Casale, Jeff Oligmueller
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Patent number: 7921881Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fluid conduit assembly. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the inventive fluid conduit assembly includes a fluid conduit having an inlet, at least one outlet and a fluid flow passageway therebetween configured to allow for fluid to be communicated between said inlet and said at least one outlet. The inventive fluid conduit assembly further includes at least one damper disposed within the passageway of the fluid conduit. The damper includes a sealed vent configured to vent gases captured by the damper during a brazing process performed on the fluid conduit when unsealed.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Millennium Industries CorporationInventors: Michael J. Zdroik, Robert J. Doherty
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Patent number: 7921882Abstract: The feed line for a hydraulic system, in particular of a motor vehicle, is formed, at least over part of its longitudinal extent, by a dimensionally variable body. The wall of the dimensionally variable body is elastically deformable, at least in regions, so that, when the flow passes through the dimensionally variable body, the cross section of the dimensionally variable body can be varied as a function of the pressure of the hydraulic medium.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AGInventor: Rainer Gebhardt
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Patent number: 7921883Abstract: A hydrogen dispenser comprises a programmable controller and a user interface operably connected to the programmable controller. The programmable controller has a plurality of user-selectable hydrogen dispensing rate algorithms. The user interface offers the plurality of user-selectable hydrogen dispensing rate algorithms and is used for setting a user-selected dispensing rate algorithm from among the plurality of user-selectable hydrogen dispensing rate algorithms.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Perry Cohen, David John Farese, Keith David Gourley
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Patent number: 7921884Abstract: An injection-molded load line connection spillage container for catching and retaining liquid spilled when liquids are pumped between storage tanks and tankers provides an injection-molded reservoir and an injection-molded cover attached to the reservoir by hinges. Reinforcing ribs molded into the reservoir provide strength and ruggedness without the need for reinforcing steel collars and saddles. Gussets molded into the reservoir hinge brackets ensure repeated stresses produced by energetic opening of the cover does not result in failure of the hinge brackets. An optional load line mounting assembly permits secure mounting of the load line container directly onto the load line. An optional cleanout assembly provides a valved suction line for removing retained spillage, and an optional sampling assembly provides a valved sample line for sampling the liquid being transferred.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Anti-Pollution Technology, L.P.Inventors: Jack G. Brewer, Steven L. Shroyer, Darrel B. Fruit, Darrel G. Fruit
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Patent number: 7921885Abstract: A filling machine assembly having supports for supporting any suitable fixture. At least one of the supports includes a plurality of modules with each of the modules including at least one coupling member for interlocking adjoining modules to form a continuous uninterrupted support. The modules can include sides with at least one coupling member mounted to each side. The coupling members are preferably complementary in configuration with each other for interlocking the first and second modules.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Adcor Industries, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Brown, Demetrios Stavrakis
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Patent number: 7921886Abstract: A filling valve apparatus for filling a container with a fluid. The apparatus includes a body portion and a stem. A sleeve is disposed over the stem and is removable from the stem and the body portion when the filling valve apparatus is serviced. A seal is mounted to the bottom of the sleeve. At least one component is movably connected to the sleeve and remains connected to the sleeve when the sleeve is removed from the stem and the body portion during the servicing of the filling valve apparatus. Similarly, a valve assembly, having a housing and a movable plunger is removable from the body portion. At least one member is mechanically connected to one of the housing and plunger for creating a unitary valve assembly that remains intact when the valve assembly is removed from the body portion during servicing of the filling valve apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Adcor Industries, Inc.Inventors: Demetrios Stavrakis, Edwin K. Ruble, Michael J. Brown
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Patent number: 7921887Abstract: A guide system for cutting return bends directly into the underlayment panels of a radiant floor heating system is provided that eliminates the need for the installation of separate return panels. The guide system includes a guide panel having a guide rail on its bottom surface and a pivoting guide on its top surface. The pivoting guide is pivotally movable through a 180-degree arc relative to the guide panel and is configured to receive a router with a plunge or dovetail bit installed therein. In this manner, the router is pivotably movable through a controlled 180-degree semi-circular arc from a point that is aligned with a groove in which the guide rail is installed to a groove in an adjacent underlayment panel allowing the user to pivot the router to cut a return bend into the underlayment in the desired location.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventors: Michael K. Ellery, Dale Buckey
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Patent number: 7921888Abstract: Various example embodiments are disclosed. According to one example embodiment, a router table may comprise a table top, a mounting can, a sleeve, and an adjustment mechanism. The table top may have an aperture and a plurality of support members; the support members may be configured to support the table top. The mounting can may be attachable to the table top in a vicinity of the aperture. The sleeve may be engaged to the mounting can, and may be configured to receive a router and to position a router bit of the router along an axis extending through the aperture. The adjustment mechanism may be configured to move the sleeve within the mounting can and relative to the table top to thereby move the router along the axis and position the router bit at one of a plurality of positions relative to the table top.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Thomas Sommerville, Sean Hill, Anthony Smith
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Patent number: 7921889Abstract: A power tool comprises a base unit and a motor unit. The base unit includes a handle and a first electrical connector. The motor unit includes an electric motor and a second electrical connector. The motor unit is configured to be releasably connected to the base unit. An electrical connection is established between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when the motor unit is properly connected to the base unit. A sensor is configured to determine whether the motor unit is properly connected to the base unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: David Pozgay, Charlie Ren, Jeff Schreiner
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Patent number: 7921890Abstract: A credit card case mainly has a case body and two self-restoring parts disposed within the case body. The case body is formed with an inlet disposed at one end thereof and has two nicks disposed respectively at the upper and lower ends of the inlet. Each of the two self-restoring parts has a locking point disposed at the end thereof that is near the inlet. By means of such a structure, the credit card can push the locking points toward the side ends of the inlet after being placed into the case body till it is fully contained in the containing space within the case body, and the self-restoring parts can be restored elastically and thus lock the edges of the credit card with the locking points.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventor: Wei-Teh Ho
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Patent number: 7921891Abstract: In a pneumatic tire for traveling on an off road, including a tread pattern in which a plurality of blocks are formed by at least three vertical grooves extending along a tire circumferential direction and a lateral groove intersecting the vertical grooves, each of the lateral groove arranged among the three vertical grooves and the vertical groove arranged in a middest portion has a groove wall surface forming a step portion, and a projecting stripe continuing approximately at an identical height is provided at a whole of each groove bottom thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Toyo Tire & Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tetsuji Miyazaki
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Patent number: 7921892Abstract: The invention relates to a machine for the manufacture of a web of corrugated board which is conveyed in a working direction and comprises at least one smooth liner and at least one corrugated medium that has corrugation tips and corrugation troughs, the corrugated medium being applied by adhesion to the at least one liner at least in the vicinity of the corrugation troughs, wherein a quality assessment device for assessment of the quality of the adhesive bond between the at least one liner and the at least one corrugated medium is provided, which comprises at least one ultrasonic transmitter that is disposed on one side of the web of corrugated board and at least one ultrasonic receiver that is disposed on the opposite side of the web of corrugated board and is allocated to the at least one ultrasonic transmitter; and a control anti evaluation unit which, in a manner for data transmission, is connected to the at least one ultrasonic receiver for evaluation of the signal of the ultrasonic receiver.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: BHS Corrugated Maschinen-und Anlagenbau GmbHInventors: Klaus Baierl, Norbert Stadele
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Patent number: 7921893Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for joining of composites with thermoplastic surfaces. The process includes the location of the said components within a load bearing frame, and bringing the thermoplastic surfaces to be joined into contact. Pressure application devices, in the form of fluid filled bladders, are also located within the frame, and are located such that pressure is applied evenly to said thermoplastic surfaces. Where components have a high level of curve or twist, form blocks that have the approximate shape of the component surface are located between the frame and bladders. Pressure and heat are applied to the joint area, and heat removed while the joint area is maintained under some pressure. A feature of the present invention is the option of using opposing pressure application devices, reducing the need for substantial tooling in order to maintain component location accuracy.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Advanced Composite Structures LimitedInventors: Andrew Beehag, Kenneth Douglas Horton, Bruce Cartwright
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Patent number: 7921894Abstract: A tire molding machine includes a pair of bead core supporting devices for holding respective bead cores, which are arranged on radially outer side of a carcass band, so that the bead core has a center axis with a controllable inclination angle. The bead core supporting device (4), which controls the inclination angle of the bead core center axis, includes an annular upright plate 32), a bead holder ring (13) secured to the annular upright plate, for holding the bead core (B) in parallel manner, and bead holder ring posture control means (14) for controlling the inclination angle of the center axis of the bead holder ring relative to the center axis of the annular upright plate, within an angular range including zero degree.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2004Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Bridgestone CorporationInventor: Tomohiro Irie
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Patent number: 7921895Abstract: An adhesive chuck, and an apparatus and method for assembling substrates using the same are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a chamber, a first adhesive chuck inside the chamber and having a plurality of adhesive protrusions to adhere to a first substrate conveyed from an outside into the chamber via an intermolecular attractive force, and a driving unit to move the first substrate adhered to the first adhesive chuck and a second substrate toward each other to be compressed and assembled to each other. The apparatus can achieve adhesion and separation of a substrate with minimal power consumption, enhancing an operating efficiency. Additionally, the adhesive chuck can overcome a problem of spot generation on a display panel caused by remaining static electricity. Furthermore, since the adhesive chuck is almost free from a problem of electric instability, it can exhibit high stability and efficiency and can be fabricated at lower costs.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Advanced Display Process Engineering Co., LtdInventor: Seok-Hee Shim
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Patent number: 7921896Abstract: A device that dispenses tape structures comprising multiple lengths of overlapping tape. Rolls of tape are attached to the device in a manner that allows the device to unroll lengths of tape into at least one guide and pressing mechanism. In the event that multiple lengths of tape pass through or against the guide and pressing mechanism the lengths of tape overlap and combine into a tape structure comprising multiple lengths of overlapping tape. In a preferred embodiment of the device, the dispensed tape structure comprises adhesive on its opposing surfaces. After creating the tape structure, a blade cuts the tape structure and allows the device to dispense a portion of the tape structure. In addition, the device combines a length of paper with the tape structure by overlapping the length of paper and the tape structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventor: Benny Krog Andersen
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Patent number: 7921897Abstract: A ladder drum for adjusting and regulating the angular orientation and closure of horizontal slats of a venetian blind, of the type incorporating ladder cords or tape ladders, having a polygonal profiled structure comprising a series of planar sidewalls defining a substantially hollow interior. The number of sidewalls defining the polygonal structure is greater than four sidewalls, and less than or equal to twelve sidewalls, with each adjacent plane sidewall having an internal angular orientation in the range of 90° to 150°. To enhance the uniform closure of the slats of a horizontal blind, the polygonal ladder drum is more preferably in the form of an uneven hexagon that is formed from injection molded plastics. The opposing top and bottom sidewalls are greater in dimension than the mediate sidewalls, and have attachment means to insert various widths of ladder tape. The mediate sidewalls have at least two opposing access slots to insert and retain ladder cords in a counter balanced relation.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventor: Tser Wen Chou
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Patent number: 7921898Abstract: A pneumatic automation system (1) is disclosed for mobile screens (2) comprising at least one of the mobile screens (2), a device for compressing a control fluid, a device for channeling and checking the control fluid, a device for pneumatically actuating a movement of the mobile screen (2) equipped with at least one sliding cursor (4) controlled by the control fluid and supplied by the compressing device through said channeling and checking means, and a device for connecting the cursor (4) with the mobile screen (2).Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Gianus S.p.A.Inventor: Roberto Brioschi
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Patent number: 7921899Abstract: A method for fabricating a magnesium-based composite material, the method includes the steps of: (a) providing a magnesium-based melt and a plurality of carbon nanotubes, mixing the carbon nanotubes with the magnesium-based melt to achieve a mixture; (b) injecting the mixture into at least one mold to achieve a preform; and (c) extruding the preform to achieve the magnesium-based carbon nanotube composite material.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignees: Tsinghua University, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kam-Shau Chan, Cheng-Shi Chen, Guang-Liang Sheu, Qing-Chun Du, Wen-Zhen Li
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Patent number: 7921900Abstract: A process for forming an article includes locating a container containing a charge of semi-solid metal alloy in a passage in front of a plunger arranged to travel relative to the passage to force the charge of semi-solid metal alloy into a desired shape, and displacing the charge of semi-solid metal alloy from the container and forming it into the desired shape by causing relative travel between the plunger and the passage. The plunger can push a displaceable closure member to displace the closure member and the charge of semi-solid metal alloy along an interior volume of the container from a first opening proximal the plunger and closed by the closure member towards a second opening remote from the first opening.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: CSIRInventors: Hristov Lillian Ivanchev, Daniel Jeremias Wilkins
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Patent number: 7921901Abstract: Some die cast aluminum alloy articles have internal cylindrical surfaces such as the round internal cylinder surfaces of a cylinder block for an internal combustion engine. During casting solidification molten aluminum alloys shrink against the metallic permanent mold tools used to mold and define such internal surfaces, and tend to stick to the tool surfaces making it difficult to remove the casting. The tendency of some aluminum casting alloys to solder to the tool can further intensify sticking. In this invention, an aluminum alloy sleeve is placed on and over the tool surface before casting and the sleeve isolates the tool from the molten aluminum. The sleeve becomes bonded to the casting and facilitates removal of the casting from the tool. The sleeve may be (and preferably is) fully machined from the internal casting surface. The sleeve may be of the same composition as the casting, in which case handling and recycling of machining chips would be facilitated.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Jongcheol Shin, Jongwon B Park, Inwook Hwang, Bob R. Powell, Jr., Thomas A. Perry, Anil K. Sachdev, Jon T. Carter
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Patent number: 7921902Abstract: The invention relates to a frame part (10) for a tubular heat exchanger. The frame part (10) according to the invention is designed for being fastened (10) to a tubular body that is constituted of a number of parallel tubes through which a heat-exchange medium flows. The tubes run at both ends into a collecting tube which extends at an angle to the tubes. The tubular heat exchanger is provided with a frame part (10) on at least one of the sides of the tubular body that runs parallel to the tubes. Said frame part occludes the tubular heat exchanger from the exterior and can be at least indirectly linked with the collecting tubes. According to the invention, the frame part (10) has at least one predetermined breaking point (20).Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: BEHR GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Scott Horoho
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Patent number: 7921903Abstract: A heat exchange system for electronic devices, preferably data processing devices which include high-performance processors or have a high processor density, includes essentially a primary cooling circuit and a secondary cooling circuit both being thermally associated to the one or more processor units. The secondary cooling circuit is configured as a completely closed system, the coolant in the secondary cooling circuit being driven exclusively by mechanical or inductive coupling with the flow drive of the primary cooling circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventor: Jürgen Hertweck
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Patent number: 7921904Abstract: A heat exchanger including a tube having inlet ends and outlet ends and defining a flow path therebetween. The tube can have a first section and a second section arranged at an angle with respect to the first section. Each of the first section and the second section can include a first subsection and a second subsection arranged at an angle with respect to the first subsection.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Modine Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Jerome A. Matter, Gregory T. Kohler, Edward A. Robinson, Mark W. Johnson
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Patent number: 7921905Abstract: A plastic intercooler assembly includes a plurality of plastic tubes that extend between plastic end plates. The plastic tubes are secured to the end plates to provide the desired seal between the end plates and the ends of the tubes. The plastic tubes are attached utilizing plastic welding methods that reduce assembly time and cost.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Mahle International GmbHInventors: Bobbye Kaye Baylis, Bruce J. Harvey, Ian R. McLean, Paul D. Daly
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Patent number: 7921906Abstract: In a temperature control method, a controlled part is arranged to contact a first principal surface of a heat conduction part. The heat conduction part has the first principal surface and a second principal surface opposite to the first principal surface. The first principal surface has a configuration corresponding to a configuration of the controlled part. The second principal surface is larger in surface area than the first principal surface. At least one of a heating unit and a cooling unit is driven to set the controlled part at a predetermined temperature. The heating unit and the cooling unit are disposed on the second principal surface of the heat conduction part so that the heating unit and the cooling unit are arranged side by side.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Fujitsu Semiconductor LimitedInventors: Shigeyuki Maruyama, Hiroshi Misawa, Naohito Kohashi
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Patent number: 7921907Abstract: A system and process for extracting hydrocarbons from a subterranean body of oil shale within an oil shale deposit located beneath an overburden. The system comprises an energy delivery subsystem to heat the body of oil shale and a hydrocarbon gathering subsystem for gathering hydrocarbons retorted from the body of oil shale. The energy delivery subsystem comprises at least one energy delivery well drilled from the surface of the earth through the overburden to a depth proximate a bottom of the body of oil shale, the energy delivery well extending generally downward from a surface location above a proximal end of the body of oil shale to be retorted and continuing proximate the bottom of the body of oil shale. The energy delivery well may extend into the body of oil shale at an angle.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: American Shale Oil, LLCInventors: Alan K. Burnham, Roger L. Day, P. Henrick Wallman, James R. McConaghy, Harry Gordon Harris, Paul Lerwick, R. Glenn Vawter
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Patent number: 7921908Abstract: A downhole pumping system includes a submersible pump assembly having a pump and a motor, and an inlet apparatus operably coupled to the submersible pump assembly. The inlet apparatus includes a tubular housing for connection to an intake of the pump, the housing having an axis and defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart apertures, a plurality of valve members, each valve member positioned within a corresponding aperture, and a plurality of spring members coupled to the housing, each spring member coupled to a corresponding valve member. At least a portion of one or more of the spring members and the valve members extend above the outer surfaces of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Steven K. Tetzlaff, Lance T. Robinson
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Patent number: 7921909Abstract: A method includes identifying application parameter(s) including a subterranean formation temperature, determining a breaker particle size in response to the application parameter(s), providing a treatment fluid including a carrier fluid and a granular breaker sized according to the breaker particle size, and treating the subterranean formation with the treatment fluid. The granular breaker is a metallic peroxide which may be an alkaline peroxide and/or zinc peroxide. The application parameter(s) may further include a flowback wait time, a composition of the metallic peroxide, a gel loading of the carrier fluid, and a permeability of the subterranean formation. The breaker particle size may include a breaker large particle size that is not greater than 25% larger than a breaker small particle size. At least 90% of the breaker particles may be sized between the breaker small particle size and the breaker large particle size.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Sylvie Daniel, Marie Noelle Dessinges
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Patent number: 7921910Abstract: A proppant composition comprises a non-radioactive, detectable tracer at least partially embedded in a ceramic composition. The composition may be prepared by agglomerating granules of the ceramic material and granules of the non-radioactive, detectable material to produce the particle by compression. Backflow of proppants in a fractured subterranean formation into which a plurality of particles of the proppant composition have been introduced may be tracked by analyzing a sample of the backflow by detecting for presence of the tracer in the sample.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Carbo Ceramics Inc.Inventors: Brett A. Wilson, Robert Duenckel, Thomas C. Palamara
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Patent number: 7921911Abstract: A method and composition for treating a subterranean formation with a fluid, including forming a fluid including a particulate and an organosilane with the chemical formula RnSiX4-n, wherein n is equal to 1, 2, or 3, R is an organic functional group, and X is a halogen, alkoxy, or acetoxy group, introducing the fluid into a subterranean formation with exposed surfaces, and modifying the wettability of a surface of the particulate or subterranean formation or both. A method and composition for treating a subterranean formation with a fluid including forming a fluid comprising a particulate and an organosilane, introducing the fluid into a subterranean formation with exposed surfaces, and modifying the wettability of the proppant or surfaces or both, wherein the wettability modification degrades.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Michael J. Fuller, Trevor Lloyd Hughes, Jill F. Geddes
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Patent number: 7921912Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 10, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Rajesh K. Saini, Bradley L. Todd, David E. McMechan, Thomas D. Welton, Richard W. Pauls
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Patent number: 7921913Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting temperature sensitive components from the extreme temperatures a hydrocarbon producing wellbore. The apparatus comprises an inner housing encompassed by an exterior housing, where a plenum is formed between the two housings. A vacuum is formed within the plenum. The temperature sensitive components are stored within the inner housing. An aerogel composition is placed on the outer surface of the inner housing thereby providing added insulation for protecting the temperature sensitive component. Optionally the aerogel composition can be added to the inner surface of the outer housing. Yet further optionally, a reflective foil may be disposed over the aerogel composition of the inner housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Borislav J. Tchakarov, Paul G. Junghans
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Patent number: 7921914Abstract: A three-in-one fracturing system is provided, which combines on a single trailer that can be pulled by a single tractor, a blending system for blending a fracturing fluid, a fluid pumping system for pumping the fracturing fluid into the well, and a data cabin for monitoring the operation of the blending system and the fluid pumping system.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Hitman Holdings Ltd.Inventors: Matt Bruins, Brendon Hamilton
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Patent number: 7921915Abstract: One or more valves can be run into a string to land near associated ports in the string for injection or/and production service. When multiple valves are installed they can be initially configured to balance flow into or from a zone. The position of each valve can be altered without removal from the string preferably by a wireline shifting tool. One or more valves can also be removed and replaced when worn preferably using a wireline run tool. The valves can come with an integral sand control feature to facilitate production. Sensors to monitor well conditions and to transmit data to the surface can also be incorporated into the valve module.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Bennett M. Richard, Michael H. Johnson, Sean L. Gaudette
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Patent number: 7921916Abstract: To communicate measurement data from a well, data corresponding to measurement data collected by multiple sensors in a well is transformed downhole and passed to an intermediate communications device, which device in turn passes a subset of that data to a destination communications device. The destination communications device applies a second transformation to the data received from the intermediate communications device. The first and second transformations are designed such that meaningful data can be recovered at the destination communications device even though only a subset of the original transformed data has been received.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: John R. Lovell, Christian Chouzenoux, Christophe Champagnon, Ashish Chaudhary
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Patent number: 7921917Abstract: Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Johnnie E. Kotrla, Melvyn F. Whitby, David J. McWhorter, Glenn J. Chiasson
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Patent number: 7921918Abstract: A rigless support for a downhole operation, such as cutting of an underwater casing in preparation for plug-and-abandonment. The unit has a movable base that can be positioned on a floating structure, such as a barge or a marine vessel and delivered to the site. A pair of piston rams support a swivel unit therebetween, with the swivel unit being driven by a hydraulic motor and driving a casing cutter.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventors: Charles Larue Bryant, Jr., David J. Ruttley
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Patent number: 7921919Abstract: A system comprising a surface installation in position above a plurality of subsea wells disposed within the watch circle of the surface installation. A plurality of flowlines directly couple at least one of the plurality of subsea wells to the surface installation. A control station, a hydraulic power unit, and an injection unit are disposed on the surface installation. A distribution body is disposed on the seafloor and is coupled to each of the control station, hydraulic power unit, and the injection unit via one or more umbilicals. A first wellhead component is disposed on one of the subsea wells and is coupled to the distribution body via one or more flying leads that provide electrical, hydraulic, and fluid communication. A second wellhead component is disposed on another one of the subsea wells and coupled to the distribution body via one or more flying leads that provide electrical, hydraulic, and fluid communication.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Horton Technologies, LLCInventor: Edward E. Horton, III
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Patent number: 7921920Abstract: A well intake with an anti-coning end portion provides for withdrawal of fluid hydrocarbons, such as oil and gas, from pockets that contain an underlying layer of water. The anti-coning end portion may include a tube having an upwardly turned or upwardly facing end or mouth, a tube having a non-circular cross section, a tube having one or more baffles, or a combination thereof, in order to prevent or block the formation of cyclonic or swirling flow patterns of water in the vicinity of the well intake.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventor: Ian Kurt Rosen
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Patent number: 7921921Abstract: A downhole backup system includes, a tubular positionable within a downhole structure such that an annular space exists between the tubular and the downhole structure. The downhole backup system also includes, a plurality of wedges that are radially movably positioned within the annular space, and each of two opposing ends of the plurality of wedges are configured to completely cover the annular space at all possible radial positions of the plurality of wedges.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: David S. Bishop, Marc N. Samuelson
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Patent number: 7921922Abstract: A formation saver sub or pump out sub incorporating an anti-surge feature. The sub includes a body, a mandrel, a piston (or an annulus fluid pressure chamber and a tubular pressure chamber), a sleeve, a spring, a releasable seat, and a plug. The plug and seat are released from the sub when one or more dogs releasably positioning the seat in the mandrel bore disengages from the seat due to a bleed off of fluid pressure in the well bore.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: PetroQuip Energy Services, LPInventors: William J. Darnell, Charles D. Wintill, Rodney W. Long
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Patent number: 7921923Abstract: A casing mandrel for an independent screwed wellhead includes a seal bore for receiving a fixed-point packoff connected to a high-pressure mandrel of a pressure isolation tool, and a pin thread adapted for engagement with a box thread of a tubing head supported by the casing mandrel.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc.Inventor: Bob McGuire
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Patent number: 7921924Abstract: A technique is provided for controlling actuation of a well component. A resistance device is deployed in a tool string and connected to a well tool to be actuated. The resistance device comprises a deformable body and a deforming member that move relative to one another during actuation of the well tool. Deformation of the deforming member provides constant resistance and consequent control over component actuation.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Zheng R. Xu, William D. Eatwell
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Patent number: 7921925Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and method for expanding a tubular. In one aspect, embodiments of the prevent invention provide an expander tool having at least two expansion members radially extendable from the expander tool into contact with a surrounding inside surface of the tubular, the at least two expansion members radially extendable at different times and axially spaced after radially extending. In another aspect, embodiments include a method for isolating a first portion of a wellbore from a second portion of a wellbore comprising locating an expandable tubular within the wellbore between the first and second portions, the expandable tubular having a weakened portion therein, isolating the first portion from the second portion of the wellbore, and expanding the expandable tubular proximate to the weakened portion to sever the expandable tubular.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Patrick G. Maguire, Robert J. Coon, Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson
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Patent number: 7921926Abstract: A jointed spearhead assembly can include a base portion that is adapted to be connected to a down-hole object and a spearhead portion having a first end and a second. The second end includes a follower tab with a non-convex first follower interface. The spearhead portion can be pivotally coupled to the base portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Longyear TM, Inc.Inventors: Christopher L. Drenth, George Ibrahim, Anthony Lachance
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Patent number: 7921927Abstract: A fire suppression system includes a gaseous extinguishing agent and a liquid extinguishing agent. At least one emitter is in fluid communication with the liquid and gas. The emitter is used to establish a gas stream, atomize and entrain the liquid into the gas stream and discharge the resulting liquid-gas stream onto the fire. The emitter has a deflector surface with a closed end cavity.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Victaulic CompanyInventors: William J. Reilly, Robert J. Ballard, Kevin J. Blease, Stephen R. Ide
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Patent number: 7921928Abstract: A horizontal dry fire protection sprinkler includes a housing having a vertical segment and a horizontal segment extending generally perpendicular to the vertical segment. The vertical segment defines an inlet opening. A plug member is disposed in the inlet opening for sealingly closing the inlet opening. A sprinkler is attached to the horizontal segment and includes a base having a passage extending therethrough and defining an outlet opening. A cap is disposed in the outlet opening and a heat sensitive trigger engages the cap. A translation mechanism is disposed in the housing and engaging the cap and supporting the plug member in the inlet opening, wherein when the heat sensitive trigger releases support of the cap, the translation mechanism is allowed to move within said housing to allow the plug member to dislodge from the inlet opening.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: Andrew T. Thompson, Scott T. Franson