Patents Issued in August 1, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130192805
    Abstract: A method for forming a manifold for use with a heat exchanger is disclosed. The method may involve forming a plurality of vanes. Opposing surfaces of each of the vanes may define a pair of adjacent flow channels for receiving portions of first and second fluids to be flowed through the flow channels. Each of the flow channels may have a changing aspect ratio along its length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: The Boeing Company
  • Publication number: 20130192806
    Abstract: In a multilayer heat exchanger of the present invention, a plurality of heat exchange units for performing heat exchange of a fluid fed from a plurality of compressors is stacked. Each of the heat exchange units has a structure that pluralities of flow passage plates and cooling plates are stacked. Concave grooves formed on surfaces are formed as flow passages of the fluid in the flow passage plates and cooling plates. The flow passage plates and cooling plates are made of metal, the flow passages are formed by chemical etching, and the stacked metal flow passage plates and cooling plates are bonded to each other by diffusion-bonding. Further, each of the heat exchange units is in one-to-one correspondence with each of the compressors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd.)
    Inventor: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd.)
  • Publication number: 20130192807
    Abstract: Systems are disclosed for battery modules with cooling systems. In accordance with disclosed embodiments, the cooling system may be disposed against an external surface of a housing of the battery module. The cooling system may utilize a coolant to remove heat generated by cells within the battery module, to prevent the cells from aging prematurely. Embodiments of the cooling system may include cold plates, tubes, fins, and plates, or a combination thereof, which may route the coolant along the surface of the battery module housing. Such features may create a large effective cooling surface against the battery module housing to promote a high heat transfer rate from the cells to the coolant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventor: Johnson Controls Technology Company
  • Publication number: 20130192808
    Abstract: A refrigerant guiding pipe having a pipe wall in which an inner chamber is formed, an opening formed in the pipe wall, and a refrigerant guiding portion. At least a part of the refrigerant guiding portion is disposed to be substantially inclined with respect to an axial direction of the refrigerant guiding pipe to guide refrigerant passing through the opening. The refrigerant guiding pipe can distribute and guide refrigerant well to help avoid non-uniform distribution of refrigerant due to layering of gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicants: DANFOSS A/S, SANHUA HOLDING GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Huazhao Liu
  • Publication number: 20130192809
    Abstract: An air conditioner includes a compressor and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a first header pipe to have a refrigerant compressed by the compressor to flow therein, a heat exchange unit including a plurality of first refrigeration tubes and a plurality of second refrigeration tubes to thermally exchange the refrigerant with air, a plurality of first header branch pipes coupling the first header pipe with corresponding first refrigeration tubes in the heat exchange unit, a bypass pipe to have the refrigerant, thermally exchanged in the heat exchange unit, passing therethrough in the air cooling operation, and a second header pipe to have the refrigerant passing through the bypass pipe to flow therein. A plurality of second header branch pipes couples the second header pipe with corresponding second refrigeration tubes in the heat exchange unit, where at least two first refrigeration tubes have at least one second refrigeration tube therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: LG Electronics Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130192810
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a once-through evaporator comprising an inlet manifold; one or more inlet headers in fluid communication with the inlet manifold; one or more tube stacks, where each tube stack comprises one or more inclined evaporator tubes; the one or more tube stacks being in fluid communication with the one or more inlet headers; where the inclined tubes are inclined at an angle of less than 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees to a vertical; one or more outlet headers in fluid communication with one or more tube stacks; and an outlet manifold in fluid communication with the one or more outlet headers; and a baffle system comprising a plurality of baffles; the baffle system being disposed adjacent to a tube stack so that the baffle system contacts a tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: ALSTOM TECHNOLOGY LTD.
    Inventor: Alstom Technology Ltd.
  • Publication number: 20130192811
    Abstract: Heat exchanger tube (100), in particular the condenser of a motor vehicle air conditioning system, is disclosed. The tube comprises a folded wall (105) defining a housing (115), and an internal separator (130), inserted into said housing, said internal separator defining a plurality of fluid circulation channels (136), said wall (105) having large surfaces connected by radii. The tube (100) is configured so that the clearance between the wall (105) and the internal separator (130) is filled along at least one radius (110).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: VALEO SYSTEMES THERMIQUES
    Inventors: Laurent Moreau, Alain Bauerheim, Philippe Metayer, Yoann Naudin, Kevin Gahon
  • Publication number: 20130192812
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger with die-cast elements, comprising a die-casting step for die-casting at least one element of a heat exchanger by means of at least one die, further comprising a positioning step for positioning at least one contoured duct inside the die, performed prior to the die-casting step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Mario Morini
  • Publication number: 20130192813
    Abstract: Disclosed is a heat radiation sheet, including a thermoconductive adhesive layer, a thermal diffusion layer, an adiabatic adhesive layer formed on the thermal diffusion layer, and a graphite layer. The thermoconductive adhesive layer is formed by mixing a metal powder with a nonconductive resin adhesive, the thermal diffusion layer is formed of metal foil, and the adiabatic adhesive layer is formed by mixing a metal powder with a nonconductive resin adhesive. The heat radiation sheet is effective in that high-temperature heat generated from heat sources of various kinds of electronic appliances is rapidly absorbed by a thermoconductive adhesive layer and a thermal diffusion layer, and the absorbed heat rapidly spreads over the entire area of the heat radiation sheet, is stored, and is then slowly discharged to prevent the external temperature of the electronic appliance from rapidly increasing, preventing the deterioration of reliability attributable to the high-temperature heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Il Ku YOON
  • Publication number: 20130192814
    Abstract: A tire temperature control device includes a temperature control unit that controls at least one of a tire temperature of front wheels and a tire temperature of rear wheels based on a temperature difference between the temperature of the tire on the front wheel and the temperature of the tire on the rear wheel of a vehicle. The temperature control unit controls, for example, the tire temperature corresponding to predetermined temperatures based on temperature characteristics that are related to maneuverability of the vehicle, fuel economy of the vehicle, and a friction coefficient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Ryosuke Okubo
  • Publication number: 20130192815
    Abstract: In order to reduce the risk of accidents in mechanically drilling through a stratum and to expand the range of applications of the device for drilling through a stratum, the invention provides that the control elements which ensure the in-feeding of the cutting rod and the return of the device to the position for being transported by means of interacting the ball-and-socket joint with the control bushing and the body—are embodied as two-stage figure projections on the lateral truncations of the ball-and-socket joint, which cooperate with cutouts in the control bushing and the body; and the line of pipes and the hydraulic motor of the suspension and of the pivot point are optionally replaced by a cable and by an electric motor combined with a hydraulic pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Stanislav Tolstihin, Segey Kharitonov
  • Publication number: 20130192816
    Abstract: A renewable energy, single well, primarily self-flow, geothermal heat/power production system that acquires naturally occurring sub-surface geothermal heat to heat water and/or produce mechanical/electrical power using a heat exchangers or a turbine/generator. The sub-surface structures defining a working fluid flow path may be insulated, such as with vacuum insulation, to increase system efficiency and ensure a substantially self-generating working fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: DEEP WELL POWER, LLC
    Inventor: B. Ryland Wiggs
  • Publication number: 20130192817
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for aligning tubulars when a drilling rig is used to lower a string of tubulars into a well. A joint of tubular can be moved to a vertical position above a connector to which it is to be joined and placed at the angle where threads on the joint and connector can be joined at low torque without damage to the threads. The apparatus can be used on a variety of drilling rigs and provides a safer environment for workers on the rig.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: EXPRESS ENERGY SERVICES OPERATING, LP
    Inventor: EXPRESS ENERGY SERVICES OPERATING,LP
  • Publication number: 20130192818
    Abstract: Systems and method for improving down hole operations of well casings are disclosed herein. Systems and methods disclosed herein can comprise brushes, high pressure fluid outlets, and skids. Other systems and methods are disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: WELL GROUNDED ENERGY, LLC
    Inventor: WELL GROUNDED ENERGY, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130192819
    Abstract: Disclosed is a drag block assembly for use on a downhole tool for location in a cased wellbore. The tool has a hollow mandrel for suspension from a tubing string. The drag block, slips and packing elements mounted on the mandrel are moveable between the run and set positions by movement of the drag block, while engaging a lug on the mandrel. The drag block assembly comprises longitudinally spaced rings comprising resilient material connected together by longitudinally extending members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Chieh Yin
  • Publication number: 20130192820
    Abstract: The device has at least one electrical conductor loop formed of a feed conductor, a return conductor and an inductor connected therebetween. At least the inductor is at least partially or completely disposed in the oil sand deposit. The device further has an alternating current generator that is electrically connected to the at least one conductor loop by at least two electrical contact points. The alternating current generator has a transformer with at least one primary and at least one secondary winding. The at least one secondary winding comprises a center tap to which a ground potential Ue is electrically connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Dirk Diehl
  • Publication number: 20130192821
    Abstract: An electric machine assembly and a method of installing an electric machine assembly, the electric machine including a downhole electric machine; and a fiber operatively arranged at least partially through a housing of the electric machine for sensing at least one parameter of the electric machine assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Carl W. Stoesz
  • Publication number: 20130192822
    Abstract: A system and method for efficiently and effectively removing water from mine areas is presented. In one embodiment, one or more directionally drilled dewatering wells are drilled into the geologic formation such that at least a portion of the dewatering well is positioned underneath the mine. In one embodiment, one or more of the dewatering wells may originate outside the perimeter of the mine so as not to interfere with mine operations. In one embodiment, a hydrogeologic assessment along with mine dewatering requirements may be used to generate a mine dewatering plan. In one embodiment, a hydrogeologic assessment along with a determination of the dewatering requirements of the mine and surrounding areas may be used to create a mine dewatering plan. In one embodiment, the mine dewatering plan provides design information pertaining to each dewatering well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jeremy Dowling, Geoff Beale
  • Publication number: 20130192823
    Abstract: A method includes releasing a flow device into a wellbore to travel towards a target device that is positioned in the wellbore and that is actuated by the flow device, monitoring for communications transmitted by the flow device. The method further includes identifying a condition of the wellbore from the communications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Francis Barrilleaux, Gary Hurst
  • Publication number: 20130192824
    Abstract: A motor includes two or more sections. Each section includes a submersible tubular housing and a stator core disposed within the housing. The stator core has one or more lobes and each lobe has a winding wrapped therearound. The motor further includes a rotor disposed within the housing and including a shaft and a rotor core. The rotor core has two or more lobes. Each section is incrementally oriented so that the sections may be operated to mimic a multi-phase motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Zeitecs B.V.
    Inventor: Zeitecs B.V.
  • Publication number: 20130192825
    Abstract: A device for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having at least one pair of laterally extending upper and lower wellbores therein may include a radio frequency (RF) source. The device may also include an upper wellbore RF radiator to be positioned in the laterally extending upper wellbore and including a plurality of first terminals. The device may further include a lower wellbore RF radiator to be positioned in the laterally extending lower wellbore and comprising a plurality of second terminals. The device may also include an interconnection arrangement configured to couple the RF source and the first and second terminals so that at least one of the upper and lower wellbore RF radiators heat the hydrocarbon resource in the subterranean formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Harris Corporation
    Inventor: Francis Eugene Parsche
  • Publication number: 20130192826
    Abstract: A composition comprising crosslinked expandable polymeric microparticles capable of hydrolysis at or below neutral pH and a method of modifying the permeability to water of a subterranean formation by introducing such compositions into the subterranean formation is disclosed and claimed. This invention further relates to compositions and methods for the recovery of hydrocarbon fluids from a subterranean reservoir or formation subjected to CO2 or CO2 Water Alternating Gas flooding at low pH and increases the mobilization and/or recovery rate of hydrocarbon fluids present in the subterranean formations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Pious Kurian, Mingli Wei, Kin-Tai Chang
  • Publication number: 20130192827
    Abstract: A pressure actuation enabling method includes plugging a passage that fluidically connects an inside with an outside of a tubular with a plug, building differential pressure across the plug, actuating an actuator with the differential pressure and removing the plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Luis A. Garcia
  • Publication number: 20130192828
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for substantially sealing an opening defined by a hydrocarbon well downhole component, wherein an interior portion of the downhole component is in fluid communication with a formation surrounding the hydrocarbon well. The apparatus includes a deformable plug adaptable to being injected into the wellbore and carried through the wellbore in a fluid. The fluid carrying the deformable plug can flow through the opening and the deformable plug is sized and configured such that at least a portion of the deformable plug can deform to the contour of the opening and seat in the opening. The deformable plug is capable of swelling, hardening, or compressing such that the deformable plug forms a substantially sealed relationship with the hydrocarbon well downhole component such that the interior portion of the downhole component ceases to be in fluid communication with the formation surrounding the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: JJBM Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Glen Mitchell Kniffin, John David Harkrider, William Lee Anthony, Jeff S. Jordan
  • Publication number: 20130192829
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are presented for a “disappearing” perforator gun assembly. In a preferred method of perforating a well casing, inserted into the well casing is a tubing conveyed perforator having an outer tubular made from a metallic glass alloy having high strength and low impact resistance. An inner structure is positioned within the outer tubular and holds one or more explosive charges. Upon detonating the explosive charges, the outer tubular is fragmented. The inner structure is preferably also substantially destroyed upon detonation of the one or more explosive charges. For example, the inner structure can be made from a combustible material, corrodible, dissolvable, etc., material. A disintegration-enhancing material is optionally positioned between the outer tubular and the inner structure. Additional embodiments are presented having gun housings which dematerialize upon detonation of the charges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130192830
    Abstract: Tools and methods for abrasively cutting downhole pipes and casing. The tools and methods are ideally suited for situations where the pipe to be cut or perforated is positioned partly or wholly inside another pipe and damage to the outer pipe must be avoided. The jet nozzles are positioned at a non-normal angle to the target surface to reduce the jets' effective cutting distance. While pumping the abrasive fluid, the jets are supported at a selected radial distance from the target surface so that within a predetermined operating time the jets will cut or perforate the inner pipe but leave the outer pipe substantially intact. The tool may be rotated with a motor to perform cutoff operations or held in a fixed position for perforating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventor: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130192831
    Abstract: A device is provided for extracting a hydrocarbon-containing substance from a reservoir. Thermal energy can be applied to the reservoir in order to reduce the viscosity of the substance. The device includes at least one conductor loop for inductively supplying electric current, to provide electric and/or electromagnetic heating, and a fluid conducting device for transporting and introducing a solvent fluid into the reservoir, to further reduce the viscosity of the substance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Dirk Diehl, Norbert Huber, Muris Torlak, Bernd Wacker
  • Publication number: 20130192832
    Abstract: Oil shale and/or oil sands are utilized to generate electricity and/or steam at the site of the oil shale/sands deposit in an in situ process for recovering oil from the deposit. Bulk shale/sands material is removed from the deposit and combusted to generate thermal energy. The thermal energy is utilized to heat water to generate steam. The steam can be used directly in the in situ process or utilized to drive a steam turbine power generator located in close proximity to the deposit to generate electricity. The electricity generated on-site may be utilized to drive an in situ conversion process that recovers oil from the oil shale/sands deposit. Also, the exit steam generated by the on-site turbine generator can be used on-site to drive the in-situ conversion process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: William B. Hendershot
  • Publication number: 20130192833
    Abstract: A device for opening or closing a fluid flow path comprises: a fluid inlet, wherein the fluid inlet comprises one end of the fluid flow path; an inlet covering, wherein the inlet covering is adjacent to the fluid inlet; and a material, wherein the material is capable of expanding or contracting via a change in temperature; wherein the expansion or contraction of the material causes movement to the inlet covering, and wherein the movement of the inlet covering either opens or closes the fluid flow path. A method for opening or closing a fluid flow path using the device comprises: allowing or causing a change in temperature to the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130192834
    Abstract: A method and system of controlling the temperature of fluids produced from a reservoir to prevent overheating of an adjacent geological formation. A cooling fluid is supplied through an annulus formed between a production tubing and a production casing, which are in fluid communication with the reservoir. The cooling fluid is mixed with the reservoir fluid, and the fluids are produced through the production tubing. The temperature of the produced fluids is controlled or reduced by heat exchange with the cooling fluid supplied through the annulus to prevent excessive heat dissipation to the geological formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Marvin J. Schneider
  • Publication number: 20130192835
    Abstract: Well treatment particulates are coated with polyionic material and a composite is formed comprising multiple layers of polyelectrolyte, each layer composed of polyionic material counter to the polyionic material of the polyelectrolyte layer to which it is adjacent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Baker Hughes Incorporated
  • Publication number: 20130192836
    Abstract: A water treatment method includes: filtering water in a membrane filtration unit including at least one membrane filtration module; collecting a permeate and collecting a retentate at the outlet of the membrane filtration module; withdrawing solid materials and/or hydrocarbons contained in the retentate, in order to provide a treated retentate; recycling the treated retentate at the inlet of the membrane filtration module; providing a treated water flow from the permeate from membrane filtration module(s). An installation adapted for applying this method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: TOTAL S.A.
    Inventors: Samuel Heng, Pierre Pedenaud
  • Publication number: 20130192837
    Abstract: Multiple zones of a subterranean formation penetrated by a multi-zoned completed well may be fractured by pumping into one or more zones an acidizing solution at or above the fracturing pressure of the subterranean formation. After fractures are created or enhanced in the formation, a displacement fluid is pumped into the formation to farther advance the acidizing solution into the fractures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: James Andrew Curtis, Julio Rodolfo Gomez Casanova
  • Publication number: 20130192838
    Abstract: Methods and systems of fracturing subterranean formations to are provided comprising pumping metacritical phase natural gas into a subterranean formation to create or extend one or more fissures in the formation. Methods and systems may further comprise maintaining or increasing pressure of the metacritical phase natural gas in the formation by pumping more metacritical phase natural gas into the fissures to hold the fissures open. Methods and systems may further comprise delivering a proppant into the subterranean formation. Disclosed methods and systems may be used to extract hydrocarbons from subterranean formations without the use of liquids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Expansion Energy, LLC
    Inventor: Expansion Energy, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130192839
    Abstract: A method is given for acid fracturing a subterranean formation for improving the flow of fluids. The principal source, optionally the sole source, of the acid is a solid acid-precursor, optionally injected with an additional solid that is inert and that masks a portion of the newly created fracture faces so that the fracture face etching by the acid is not uniform. The method ensures a good flow path for fluids between the fracture tip and the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: J. Ernest Brown, John W. Still
  • Publication number: 20130192840
    Abstract: A location and orientation assembly suitable for use in a multi-lateral wellbore may include a coupling portion, an upper muleshoe, a muleshoe spacer and a bottom muleshoe. The bottom muleshoe may connect to the coupling portion through a threaded connection. A method for locating and orienting in a multi-lateral wellbore includes providing a locating and orientation assembly. In the orientation assembly a coupling portion is provided and an upper muleshoe is inserted into the coupling portion. A muleshoe spacer is inserted into the coupling portion so as to matingly contact the upper muleshoe portion. Part of a bottom muleshoe is inserted into the coupling portion so as to matingly contact the muleshoe spacer. The coupling portion is jointed to the bottom muleshoe by a threaded connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: John C. Wolf, Michael Plooy, Victor Fridman, Hanif Dussie Hunter, Barton Sponchia, Lance Rayne
  • Publication number: 20130192841
    Abstract: A method of drilling a subsea wellbore includes drilling the wellbore by injecting drilling fluid through a tubular string extending into the wellbore from an offshore drilling unit (ODU) and rotating a drill bit disposed on a bottom of the tubular string. The method further includes, while drilling the wellbore: mixing lifting fluid with drilling returns at a flow rate proportionate to a flow rate of the drilling fluid, thereby forming a return mixture. The lifting fluid has a density substantially less than a density of the drilling fluid. The return mixture has a density substantially less than the drilling fluid density. The method further includes, while drilling the wellbore: measuring a flow rate of the returns or the return mixture; and comparing the measured flow rate to the drilling fluid flow rate to ensure control of a formation being drilled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Guy F. Feasey, David Pavel, Mark A. Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20130192842
    Abstract: A jack system may provide subsea or surface operation. The jack system includes a top plate and a base plate with at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate. The jack system also includes a bottom slip bowl assembly, a top slip bowl assembly, and rotary assembly. The top slip bowl and rotary assembly are rotateably coupled to the top plate wherein the rotary assembly and the top slip bowl assembly rotate relative to the top plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: CUDD PRESSURE CONTROL, INC.
    Inventors: Charles Curtis Overstreet, Scott Michael Cunningham, J.E. Skip Ward
  • Publication number: 20130192843
    Abstract: A method and system for rapid containment and intervention of a subsea well blowout that can be performed in a rapid and efficient manner, where containment will minimize the damage to the environment and assets. The method can include disconnecting a riser from a subsea well after a blowout has occurred and moving the mobile offshore drilling unit away from the subsea well. Connecting a lower marine riser package with a blowout preventer, and diverting the well. The pressure and flow of the well fluid can be observed. At least of portion of the diversion path can be closed off and kill fluid and or cement pumped to the subsea well to kill and control the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Leo William Abel
  • Publication number: 20130192844
    Abstract: A tensions compensator assembly for a slip type joint in an offshore work string. The assembly includes a chamber at the joint which is constructed in a manner to offset or minimize a pressure differential in a production channel that runs through the work string. Thus, potentially very high pressures running through the string are less apt to prematurely force actuation and expansiveness of the slip joint. Rather, the expansive movement of the joint is more properly responsive to heave, changes in offshore platform elevation and other outside forces of structural concern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130192845
    Abstract: A drilling apparatus including a first cylindrical layer including a plurality of cylindrical members, and a second cylindrical layer including a plurality of elongate members, the plurality of cylindrical members and the plurality of elongate members arranged to form a plurality of spaces between an outer diameter of the first cylindrical layer and an inner diameter of the second cylindrical layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130192846
    Abstract: A device to allow a single ball size to actuate at least two downhole tools. Typically when a large number of ball actuated devices are run in a single well the total number of devices is limited by the increasing size of the balls required to actuate each sequential device. By having a mechanism that allows at least two tools to be actuated by each ball size the total number of ball actuated devices may be at least doubled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Cesar G. Garcia, Patrick Zimmerman, Charles Parker
  • Publication number: 20130192847
    Abstract: Rotating control device related oilfield pressure control is accomplished by upper and lower seal members configured to seal around a tubular, a chamber defined between the upper and lower seal members; and wherein fluid enters and/or exits the chamber via some device or structure. Such a device or structure could be a relief valve, a first accumulator, a pressure control valve, an orifice, and/or a void space in a seal member in a location which contacts the tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas F. Bailey, Danny W. Wagoner, James W. Chambers, Andrew A.W. Barry, Simon J. Harrall
  • Publication number: 20130192848
    Abstract: A completions assembly that includes an extendable and retractable shifting tool at a lower end of an upper completion. Outfitted with this type of tool, the upper completion may be sealably landed out at an installed lower completion without prematurely opening an isolation valve that ensures well control thereat. Rather, the full completions assembly may be finished out and the valve later opened by extending of the shifting tool from the upper completion toward the isolation valve at the lower completion. Once more, this type of well control is achieved through use of hydraulic lines that are dedicated to the upper completion even though the isolation valve is located therebelow. As a result, the extended use of hydraulic couplings and other complex or wear-prone well control architecture may be largely avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130192849
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasing gas pressure from a drill string includes a tubular housing having a circumferential sidewall, an axis, a first end, a second end and a central passage extending between the first end and the second end. A pressure member is positioned in the central passage along the axis of the housing. The pressure member is movable from a first position retracted within the housing to a second position extending past the second end of the housing. An actuator is provided to move the pressure member from the first position to the second position, where the pressure member exerts a force to move a valve member of a float valve to an open position, thereby allowing gas trapped in the drill string to flow through the central passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Adam Paul Blake
  • Publication number: 20130192850
    Abstract: A wireline extension assembly comprises a first tubing string housing a wireline extension electrically interconnecting wet connects at the upper and lower ends of the first string, with the lower wet connect being electrically connected to a downhole tool. The assembly is pushed into the horizontal leg of a deviated wellbore by forming a second tubing string extending upward from the upper end of the first string, thereby positioning the tool within the horizontal leg while leaving the upper wet connect disposed within the vertical leg. A primary wireline is then run from a surface wireline unit into the upper string and connected to the upper wet connect, thus providing electrical power, data communication, and/or other facilities to the tool. The tool can be repositioned within the horizontal leg by withdrawing the primary wireline, removing or upper string tubing sections, and then reinstalling the primary wireline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Ron CRAIK
  • Publication number: 20130192851
    Abstract: A system or method includes providing coupler portions along a structure. The coupler portions are communicatively engageable with equipment in the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: John Algeroy, Benoit Deville, Stephen Dyer, Dinesh Patel
  • Publication number: 20130192852
    Abstract: A downhole valve assembly including at least one membrane permeable to a flow of a downhole fluid, the at least one membrane defining a passage through a chamber. A quantity of particles is disposed in the chamber and the at least one membrane is impermeable to the particles. The particles are responsive to a magnetic field. At least one magnetic element is operatively arranged to produce the magnetic field for enabling the at least one magnetic element to selectively move the particles between a first position at which the particles impede the flow of the downhole fluid through the at least one membrane and a second position at which the particles do not impede the flow of the downhole fluid through the at least one membrane. A method of controlling a flow of fluid is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Oleg A. Mazyar
  • Publication number: 20130192853
    Abstract: A back-up ring assembly for a wellbore packer that acts as an extrusion limiter for a packing element and engages the wellbore bore, also operating as a slip to anchor the packer in place. A wellbore packer includes a single structure that acts both to back up the extrusion of the packing element and to engage the wellbore wall. For example, the structure is a back-up ring that includes a gripping structure on its outer wall-contacting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: PACKERS PLUS ENERGY SERVICES INC.
    Inventor: Daniel Jon Themig
  • Publication number: 20130192854
    Abstract: A draft sensing mechanism includes a draft frame adapted to be attached to a frame of a vehicle. The draft frame has left and right supports adapted to be coupled to corresponding left and right draft links. A draft strap has a left end fixed to a front side of the left support and a right end fixed to a front side of the right support. The draft strap is deflectable in response to draft forces applied to the left and right supports. A draft sensor is attached to the draft strap. The sensor generates a draft signal in response to deflection of the draft strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: PETER A. KOSMICKI, Benjamin J. Heimuch, Mark S. Earley, Edwin R. Kreis, Andrew M. Tilkes