Patents Issued in March 31, 2016
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Publication number: 20160090785Abstract: Adjustable ladders may include a pair of side rails having a plurality of rungs extending therebetween, and a pair of adjustable legs associated with the side rails. A pair of swing arms may include a first end pivotally coupled with a side rail, or a bracket associated with the side rail, as well as a second end pivotally coupled with an adjustable leg. The swing arm may be configured as a nonlinear structure. In one embodiment, the swing arm may include a first section that extends from a second section at a defined angle. The first and second sections may exhibit different lengths. Adjustment mechanisms may be pivotally coupled with an upper end of the adjustable legs. In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanisms may be configured such that, when actuated, they may be displaced in one direction while resisting displacement in a second, opposite direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Wing Enterprises, IncorporatedInventors: Gary Landon Worthington, Gary M. Jonas, Sean R. Peterson, N. Ryan Moss, Benjamin K. Jackson
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Publication number: 20160090786Abstract: A top drive well drilling installation comprising a drilling tower, vertical rails supported by the drilling tower, a trolley guided along said one or more vertical rails, and a hoisting device for moving the trolley up and down. The installation further comprises a tubular stem which is to be connected to the upper end of a drill string for rotation therewith about an axis of the drill string, and a top drive unit including a motor adapted to rotate the tubular stem and thereby the connected drill string to drill a well, wherein the top drive unit is supported by the trolley. Furthermore an elevator is provided which is adapted to—in an operative position—suspend the drill string, e.g. during tripping, and an elevator support assembly is provided which is adapted to absorb the load of the suspended drill string and adapted to move the elevator between an operative position on the drill string axis and a retracted position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: ITREC B.V.Inventors: Joop ROODENBURG, Diederick Bernardus WIJNING
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Publication number: 20160090787Abstract: An apparatus for use in a borehole may include a rotor having at least one set of magnetic elements and a cylindrical stator having a winding flowing current in a direction transverse to a long axis of the stator. The polarity of each magnetic element of the rotor may be arranged to alternate along a long axis of the rotor. The stator may be in sliding engagement with the rotor and have a core formed at least partially of laminations aligned along a plane co-planar with the long axis of the stator. Energizing the winding principally causes relative sliding between the rotor and the stator. A method for performing an operation in a borehole includes forming a well tool having at least one linear motor as described above, conveying the linear motor into the borehole, and operating a well tool by activating the linear motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Sebastian Tegeler, Steffen Toscher, Otto N. Fanini
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Publication number: 20160090788Abstract: A mobile drilling rig is mountable on a separate drive chassis having running gear. A separate main frame may be having elongated members, each having outer end extensions and vertically adjustable support posts thereon. A slide chassis is slidable on one end of the main frame mounting a power plant, and a mast pivot support pivotally mounted on the other end of the main frame. An elongated mast has a drill head movable thereon, with the mast pivot support slidably mounting the mast thereon so that the mast may be pivoted between vertical and horizontal orientations thereon while being movable in lengthwise directions. The slide chassis, the mast and drill head are moved to positions improving the stability of the rig when traversing grades in an up or down hill direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Andrew Niemczyk
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Publication number: 20160090789Abstract: The present disclosure describes a dynamic geo-stationary actuation technique that may be incorporated into a rotary steerable system 200. An example method described herein may include receiving a first angular orientation of a rotating housing 201 disposed in a borehole. The first angular orientation may be received from a sensor assembly 205 coupled to the housing 201, and the housing 201 may be coupled to a drill bit 203. A desired drilling direction for the drill bit 203 may also be received. A first trigger signal to a first actuator 206 coupled to the rotating housing 21 may be generated based, at least in part, on the first angular orientation and the desired drilling direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2013Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Bhargav Gajji, Rahul R. Gaikwad, Ratish Kadam, Ankit Purohit
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Publication number: 20160090790Abstract: There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for providing a laser beam to borehole surface in a predetermined and energy deposition profile. The predetermined energy deposition profiles may be uniform or tailored to specific downhole applications. Optic assemblies for obtaining these predetermined energy deposition profiles are further provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2013Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Foro Energy Inc.Inventor: Foro Energy Inc.
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Publication number: 20160090791Abstract: A percussive rock drill bit includes a head provided at one end of a rearwardly projecting skirt. The head has an outer collar that defines, in part, a rearwardly projecting recess formed in the forwardmost region of the head. Peripheral gauge buttons are provided at the collar to surround side and front facing buttons formed at the head recess. The drill bit is effective to provide stabilised cutting to minimise lateral deflection.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: SANDVIK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ABInventors: Magnus PERSSON, Per MATTSON
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Publication number: 20160090792Abstract: An auger blade includes a main body which defines a ground penetrating tip portion, a first blade and a second blade. The first and second blades extend from the tip portion towards an opposing end portion of the auger blade. The first and second blades are annularly arranged around a centerline of the auger blade. The first blade includes an arcuate inner surface and the second blade includes an arcuate inner surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Bhupinder Grewal
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Publication number: 20160090793Abstract: A mule shoe assembly for use in directional drilling which advantageously has releasable locking means to free the directional orienting tool from engagement with the outer mule shoe in situations where the drill bit may become stuck. The releasable locking means comprises a moveable pin which engages an aperture. A first configuration utilizes detent means and spring biasing of the pin. In a second configuration, the pin is adapted for locking engagement by pressurized downhole drilling mud, and may be disengaged from the aperture when pressure from drilling mud ceases. In a preferred embodiment the pin both has detent means and is spring biased, and also relies on drilling mud pressure to remain in locking engagement. The pin may be disengaged upon removal of drilling mud pressure and application of a positive separation force between the directional measurement tool and associated inner tool member, and outer mule shoe member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: HPC ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES LTD.Inventors: Quentin PARE, Adrien FORTUNATO
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Publication number: 20160090794Abstract: An offshore drilling rig configured for lowering and/or raising a string of tubular equipment into a subsea borehole. The drilling rig includes a drill deck; a first hoisting system being adapted for raising or lowering a first load carrier along a vertical first hoisting axis, wherein the first hoisting system is supported by a first support structure extending upwardly relative to the drill deck; a second hoisting system being adapted for raising or lowering a second load carrier along a vertical second hoisting axis located apart from the first hoisting axis, wherein the second hoisting system is supported by a second support structure extending upwardly relative to the drill deck; and a joint operations well centre on the drill deck. During joint operations, the first and second hoisting axes are preferably located apart from the joint operations well centre.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: MAERSK DRILLING A/SInventor: Jesper HOLCK
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Publication number: 20160090795Abstract: A pipe elevator handle clamp for securing to pipe elevator handles to hold them in place comprises a top clamp section hingedly connected at one end to a bottom clamp section and releasably secured to each the bottom clamp section at the other end. The top clamp section and bottom clamp section define elongated structures that, when positioned together in the closed position, include two receiving holes for receiving and securing elevator handles. The hinge connection is defined by a hinge aperture that passes through both the top clamp section and bottom clamp section and has a hinge pin for providing the fixed axis of rotation therein. The device is secured around bull horns by hinging the top clamp section and bottom clamp section into the closed position and inserting a clamp fastener into a fastener channel that extends through the top clamp section into the bottom clamp section.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Donald Haas, Justin Foust, Curtis Rogers, Kenneth Haas, Darryl Haas, Jason Rogers
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Publication number: 20160090796Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to a wellbore drilling system comprising a drilling tower and a tubular racking device having at least a lower first tubular racker assembly and at least a second tubular racker assembly operable at a greater height than the first tubular racker assembly. The system further comprises one or more well center tools, each adapted for operation above the well center of the drill floor, e.g. an iron roughneck tool for making up and breaking out of threaded tubular joints. According to the present invention, the tubular racking device comprises a third tubular racker assembly which is vertically mobile and which is operable for tubular transfer between the firing line and the drilling tubulars storage rack in combination with the second tubular racker assembly, e.g.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: ITREC B.V.Inventors: Joop ROODENBURG, Diederick Bernardus WIJNING, Hendrik HESSELS
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RISER HANDLING ON A DRILLING RIG AND A FLIP AND SERVICE MACHINE FOR RISER HANDLING ON A DRILLING RIG
Publication number: 20160090797Abstract: An offshore drilling rig including a drill floor deck having one or more holes, each defining a well centre; one or more masts upwardly extending relative to the drill floor deck, and one or more hoisting systems, each supported by at least one of the one or more masts and configured for hoisting and lowering tubular equipment through at least one of the one or more well centres; a storage area for accommodating marine riser joints in upright orientation side by side in respective upright storage positions; a riser handling apparatus, different from the hoisting systems, adapted to move at least one of said marine riser joints along a movement path between its upright storage position and a prostrate maintenance/transfer position on a maintenance/transfer area, which movement path does not intersect any of the well centres.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Mærsk Drilling A/SInventors: Jesper HOLCK, Frederik SMIDTH, Michael KANNEGAARD -
Publication number: 20160090798Abstract: A waste processing system includes a lower tank portion coupled to a first support frame with a guiding member. The waste processing system further includes an upper tank portion coupled to a second support frame, the second support frame including a leg defining a hole for receiving the guiding member to align the first support frame with the second support frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2013Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Philip David Burton, Gary Gray, Gary Rendall
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Publication number: 20160090799Abstract: This disclosure is generally drawn to systems, devices, apparatuses, and/or methods, related to monitoring a shaker used for separating solids from fluid. Specifically, the disclosed systems, devices, apparatuses, and/or methods relate to controlling an actuated arm to inspect, remove, replace, repair, clean, and/or install screen assemblies based on monitoring the shaker and its screen assemblies. In some examples, a system may include an actuated arm, a monitoring tool, and a controller. The actuated arm may be adjacent a shaker for separating one or more solids from a fluid. The monitoring tool may be coupled to the actuated arm and may monitor a screen assembly in the shaker. The controller may be in electrical communication with the actuated arm and the monitoring tool, and may control the actuated arm based on the monitoring of the screen assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Thomas Geehan, Bradley Jones, Eric Cady
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Publication number: 20160090800Abstract: Resuming communication along a wellbore after a drilling stand or other occurrence that reduces the flow rate of the drilling fluid into a borehole being drilled in a drilling procedure or causes perturbations in the pressure of the drilling fluid in the borehole by measuring a first flow rate of drilling fluid being pumped into the drillstring during the drilling procedure before adding a section of drill pipe to the drillstring or before the pressure perturbation and increasing the flow rate of the drilling fluid being pumped into the drillstring above the first flow rate after the section of drill pipe has been added to the drillstring or the pressure perturbation has occurred.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Benjamin P. Jeffryes
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Publication number: 20160090801Abstract: A high-axial load bearing assembly is provided for use with a radially expandable tool such as an expandable liner hanger. Exemplary embodiments of axial load bearing assemblies operate independently of external casing pressure and internal tubing pressure. The assemblies do not rely on movable slips or the physical characteristics of the sealing members to grip the casing and bear the axial load. The gripping and sealing functions are largely separated between gripping and sealing sub-assemblies. Hardened metal features which undergo radial expansion during deployment are provided with expansion stress-relief features.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2013Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Gary Lynn Hazelip, Sean Calahan, Todd R. Agold, Shane Furlong
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Publication number: 20160090802Abstract: A system including a load shoulder system, including a shoulder setting tool, including a shoulder coupling system configured to couple to a load shoulder, and a shoulder energizing system configured to couple the load shoulder to a tubular of a mineral extraction system.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
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Publication number: 20160090803Abstract: There is provided a locator configured for coupling to a workstring for locating a wellbore feature, The locator includes a protrusible member, a chamber, a hydraulic fluid supplying passage, and a hydraulic fluid supply source. The protrusible member is moveable, relative to the workstring, and biased for disposition, relative to the workstring, in an extended position. In the extended position, the protrusible member is engageable with the wellbore feature. The first chamber is disposed in fluid pressure communication with the protrusible member, and has a volume configured to change correspondingly with a change in position of the protrusible member such that expansion of the first chamber corresponds with an extension of the protrusible member and such that contraction of the first chamber corresponds with a retraction of the protrusible member. The hydraulic fluid supply source is fluidly coupled to the first chamber via the hydraulic fluid supplying passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Don GETZLAF, John Edward RAVENSBERGEN
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Publication number: 20160090804Abstract: Methods and apparatus to reduce flow in front of the drill bit while milling improve milling debris size. Reducing flow on the drill bit face while milling allows the drill cuttings to remain at the drilling surface longer and reduce the size of the cuttings. The smaller cuttings increase the ease and speed of cutting removal.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Scott A. GRUBB, Jason M. SKUFCA, David D. HEARN
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Publication number: 20160090805Abstract: A cutting apparatus and method to facilitate milling of a casing window by improving the interaction between the mill and the casing. The cutting apparatus comprises a whipstock having a plurality of ramp sections that provide a ramp profile arranged and designed to cooperate with the cutting structure of a mill to achieve a desired loading on the mill cutting elements during milling of the casing window. The plurality of ramp sections, having specific lengths and oriented at specific angles, adjust the loading on the mill as the mill cuts through the casing during formation of the casing window. The improved whipstock maintains a more balanced loading across the cutting elements during milling operations. Additional mill cutting structures may also be selected and evaluated to further balance the cutting load during window milling.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Shantanu N. Swadi, John E. Campbell, Shelton W. Alsup
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Publication number: 20160090806Abstract: Apparatus useful for providing a liquid-tight seal around an opening formed in the earth's surface includes a reusable load-supporting surface having at least two sealingly interconnected mats surrounding and spaced-away from the borehole opening. At least one flexible, planar spanner is configured to extend between the borehole wall and mats. At least one elongated spanner support is used to mechanically couple one or more spanners to the borehole wall. At least one elongated lip support is used to mechanically couple one or more spanners to the mats.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Aaron William Dugas, Kenneth Edward Durio, James Kerwin McDowell, Randy Paul Bordelon, Richard Lamar Edwards, JR.
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Publication number: 20160090807Abstract: A mechanical lockdown system for a subsea wellhead connector includes a lockdown member or plate that engages with a tie rod that is connected to the wellhead assembly. The lockdown system includes a support member that is permanently secured to an annular ring through which the tie rod passes. The lockdown system also includes a first handle and a second handle that are installed using a plunger or spring loaded system such that mechanical lockdown system can be easily moved from a lockdown open position to a lockdown engaged position as and when desired with minimal ROV interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Rockford Dee Lyle, Irving Jair Villasenor, Viviana Resendiz, Sergio Romero
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Publication number: 20160090808Abstract: A subsea control unit is disclosed for a subsea control system. In an embodiment, the subsea control unit includes (a) a first interface for connecting to a subsea communication network, (b) a second interface for connecting to a subsea device, and (c) a processing unit adapted to process data received from the subsea device and generate control signals for the subsea device. The processing unit is further adapted to perform a master function. Further, a subsea control system is disclosed, including (a) a plurality of subsea control units, and (b) a subsea communication network. Each subsea control unit of the plurality of subsea control units is connected to a respective subsea device and to the subsea communication network. One of the subsea control units is configured to perform the master function. Yet further, a method of controlling a plurality of subsea devices and a corresponding computer program are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Andreas KARVONEN
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Publication number: 20160090809Abstract: A ram closing assembly for a blowout preventor has a main central bore and a radial bore normal to the main central bore and includes a ram body having a rotational pin proximate to an inner end. A pair of ram arm assemblies are located on opposite sides of the ram body. The ram arm assemblies have a shaped end and an elbow end. A rotating ram is pivotally connected to the rotational pin and to the elbow end of one of the ram arm assemblies. A ram actuator is movable relative to the ram body, to move the pair of ram arm assemblies to pivot the rotating rams about the rotational pin to a closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Mohammed Saud Al-Badran
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Publication number: 20160090810Abstract: A control system for a subsea blowout preventer (BOP) positioned in a lower stack, the lower stack releasably engaged with a lower marine riser package (LMRP). The control system includes a surface logic solver positioned at or adjacent the surface of the sea that generates commands for operating the subsea BOP, a first subsea logic solver attached to the LMRP and in communication with the surface logic solver so that the first subsea logic solver receives the commands from the surface logic solver, and a second subsea logic solver attached to a hydraulic control unit in the lower stack. The second subsea logic solver is in hydraulic communication with the subsea BOP, and the first subsea logic solver so that the second subsea logic solver receives the commands from the first subsea logic solver and implements the commands by activating the hydraulic control unit to operate the BOP.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: John S. Holmes, Douglas Milliman, Luis Huerta
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Publication number: 20160090811Abstract: A wellbore system includes a sealing assembly for creating an annular seal between wellbore members. The sealing assembly includes a wicker profile defined a first sealing surface for engaging and embedding into a radially adjacent, second sealing surface. The wicker profile includes a first section having a first hardness and a second section adjacent to the first section and having a second hardness greater than the first hardness. Both the first and second sections of wickers are embedded into the second sealing surface, and can thus provide a high degree of both sealing and lockdown performance.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Mayur Mansukh, Aniruddha D. Gadre, David Lawrence Ford, Baozhi Zhu, Robert Du
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Publication number: 20160090812Abstract: A method of deploying an apparatus in a wellbore comprises positioning a device at a predetermined location; wherein the device comprises a composition that contains an expandable graphite, and a metallic binder, and wherein the composition has a first shape; and exposing the composition to a microwave energy to cause the composition to attain a second shape different from the first shape. Alternatively, the composition further comprises an activation material comprising a thermite, a mixture of Al and Ni, or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing and a method of deploying an apparatus comprising such a composition includes exposing the composition to a selected form of energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Lei Zhao, Caleb R. Newman, Edward T. Wood, Zhiyue Xu
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Publication number: 20160090813Abstract: A packing element containment system includes a support member extending from a first end to a second end. One of the first and second ends includes a support ring engagement section. A support ring is carried by the support ring engagement section of the support member. The support ring is configured and disposed to shift relative to the support member converting an axial movement of one of the support ring and the support member to a radial expansion of the support ring to provide one of a support to an anti-extrusion ring and containment for a packing element.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Nicholas S. Conner, Gary L. Anderson, Frank J. Maenza, Adrian R. Castro
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Publication number: 20160090814Abstract: There is provided a valve apparatus for disposition within a wellbore that is disposed within a subterranean formation, wherein the valve apparatus includes a housing including: (a) an outermost surface, (b) a fluid passage defined within the housing, (c) a port extending through the housing for effecting fluid communication between the reservoir and the fluid passage, (d) a first groove disposed on the outermost surface and defining a first fluid channel, for conducting reservoir fluid to the port, and extending from an outermost surface portion of the outermost surface to the port, wherein the minimum distance between the outermost surface portion and the port is at least two (2) inches, and a closure member displaceable relative to the port for effecting opening and closing of the port.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Michael John WERRIES, John Edward RAVENSBERGEN, Don GETZLAF, Doug BRUNSKILL
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Publication number: 20160090815Abstract: In wellbore completions it is desirable to cement or otherwise seal the casing to the wellbore. Many times such operations include sealing the interior of the casing against flow. In those instances a means to open the interior of the casing to fluid flow and thereby establish circulation in the well upon command is needed. Additionally it is desirable to be able to pressurize the well several times prior to establishing circulation. In an embodiment of the current invention an interior sleeve block fluid flow through ports in the housing. The inner sleeve is coupled to a j-slot so that a pressurization cycle will move the inner sleeve and cause the inner sleeve to rotate a predetermined distance. Upon reaching the access position in the j-slot the sleeve is allowed to move to a fully open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: SHALE OIL TOOLS, LLCInventor: Brian Kennedy
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Publication number: 20160090816Abstract: A casing landing and cementing tool has a wellbore obstruction-clearing tool at a downhole end thereof and a check valve uphole of any fluid vulnerable components to isolate the vulnerable components from the threat of cement incursion. The check valve is manufactured of drillable materials, the plunger being axially actuable but non-rotatable, the valve body being threadably secured within the tool. In one aspect the tool is a sleeve bit rotatably and reciprocally coupled about a mandrel secured to a non-rotating casing string, the check valve located in the mandrel. In another aspect, the tool is a bit coupled to a rotatable casing string, the check valve located in the bit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Randall E. GOSSELIN
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Publication number: 20160090817Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure can relate to transportable energy storage devices for furnishing power to down-hole electrical devices of a drill string. In embodiments, a system for furnishing electrical power includes a vessel that can be transported through a drill pipe (e.g., from the surface) towards a down-hole tool coupled to an end of the drill pipe. An energy storage device can be disposed within or defined by the vessel. The energy storage device can have an output terminal that can be operably coupled with an input terminal of the down-hole tool or operably coupled with an input terminal of a second energy storage device that directly or indirectly furnishes power to the down-hole tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Rogerio Tadeu Ramos
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Publication number: 20160090818Abstract: A shifting tool for use in a wellbore includes a tubular housing having a bore formed therethrough; a tubular mandrel disposed in the housing and longitudinally movable relative thereto; and an engagement member moveable relative to the housing between an extended position, a released position, and a retracted position, wherein: the engagement member is movable from the retracted position to the extended position in response to movement of the mandrel relative to the housing, and the engagement member is further movable from the extended position to the released position in response to movement of the mandrel relative to the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Joe NOSKE, Roddie R. SMITH, Paul L. SMITH, Thomas F. BAILEY, Christopher L. MCDOWELL
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Publication number: 20160090819Abstract: A downhole power generation system includes a tubular power generation device configured to be disposed in an annular space around a portion of a production tubing, wherein the power generation device is switchable between a power generation mode and a bypass mode. The system also includes a power storage device electrically coupled to the tubular power generation device and configured to store power generated by the power generation device. The power generation device comprises at least one power generation path and at least one bypass path. The at least one power generation path comprises at least one power generation mechanism which generates power when traversed by fluid. The at least one power generation path is open in the power generation mode and closed in the bypass mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventor: Namhyo Kim
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Publication number: 20160090820Abstract: An autonomous downhole power generation system includes a power generation device configured to be disposed in an annular space around a portion of a production tubing, wherein the power generation device is switchable between a power generation mode and a bypass mode. The system further includes a power storage device electrically coupled to the power generation device and configured to store power generated by the power generation device. The system also includes a control processor communicatively coupled to the power storage device and the power generation device, wherein the control processor receives a measure of power stored in the power storage device and switches the power generation device between the power generation mode and the bypass mode based on the measure of power or an preprogrammed operational protocol.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.Inventor: Namhyo Kim
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Publication number: 20160090821Abstract: A downhole power generation device includes a tubular housing configured to be disposed within an annular space and around a portion of production tubing. The housing includes a flow compartment configured to receive a flow of fluid therethrough when the power generation device is in a power generation mode, and an electronics compartment comprising a controller and a power generation unit. The downhole power generation device further includes a turbomachinary system comprising a rotor disposed within the flow compartment and comprising a rotor hub and a plurality of rotor blades, wherein the rotor rotates when the flow of fluid traverses the flow compartment. The downhole power generation device also includes a port coupled to the flow compartment, through which fluid enters the flow compartment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.Inventor: Namhyo Kim
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Publication number: 20160090822Abstract: Collision detection may include identifying a planned trajectory of a planned well, selecting offset wells based on the planned trajectory, filtering the offset wells once selected to obtain filtered wells. The filtering includes generating first three dimensional bounding boxes along the planned trajectory. The filtering further includes performing a first removal process including for each offset well in a set of unprocessed wells in the offset wells by: generating second three dimensional bounding boxes along an offset trajectory of the offset well, and filtering the offset well from the offset wells when the first three dimensional bounding boxes satisfy a threshold distance from the second three dimensional bounding boxes. Collision detection may further include presenting at least a subset of the filtered wells.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Ping Lu
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Publication number: 20160090823Abstract: Methods and systems for generating a fracturability index for use in identifying fracture locations and propagation in subterranean formations. A well path can be divided into a plurality of segments and the order of fracture locations along the path can be identified. Such an order is based on an optimal fracture stage from a production point of view followed by subsequent fracture stages. The above steps or operations can be repeated with respect to additional paths to generate data for use in determining prioritized segments and identifying fracture locations and propagation in subterranean formations. Such data can be compiled in the context of a fracturability index map.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Ahmed Alzahabi, Mohamed Y. Soliman, Noah Everett Berlow, Timothy Michael Spinner
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Publication number: 20160090824Abstract: A downhole tool for use in wellbores comprises a layer of hydrophobic material over a body, wherein the layer of hydrophobic material comprises a transition metal boride having a higher hydrophobicity than the body. The downhole tool may comprise a body having a composition and the layer of hydrophobic material comprising a discontinuous phase of the transition metal binder dispersed within a first continuous phase comprising a metal binder. The layer of material may be chemically bonded to the body. An interface between the body and the layer of material may comprise the transition metal boride dispersed within a second continuous phase comprising the metal binder and the composition of the body. Methods of forming downhole tools include forming such a layer of material at a surface of a body of a downhole tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: James L. Overstreet, Vivekanand Sista, Bo Yu
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Publication number: 20160090825Abstract: A method for examining uncertainty and risk associated with the development of a hydrocarbon resource by rapidly generating and analyzing variations of reservoir models realized from scenarios. The method and system may include instantiating realizations for objects based on the selected parameter ranges; and combining instantiated realizations of the objects into a reservoir model.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 3, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Matthias Imhof, Mary Ellen Meurer
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Publication number: 20160090826Abstract: A shaped-charge liner for a shaped-charge assembly is provided. The shaped-charge assembly includes a housing, a single liner, and explosive material between the housing and the liner. The single liner includes an apex portion constructed from a first material and a skirt portion made from a second material that is different than the first material.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2013Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Jerry Leroy Walker, Jason Paul Metzger
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Publication number: 20160090827Abstract: A plunger lift system has a plunger with a sleeve and a spear that dispose in tubing. The sleeve and spear can move in the tubing between a bumper and a lubricator. The sleeve has a passage for fluid to pass therethrough, and the spear can insert partially into the sleeve's passage. The sleeve and spear fall independently of one another from the surface to the bumper. When disposed on the bumper, the sleeve and spear mate together. Building gas pressure downhole can then lift the mated sleeve and spear, which can sweep liquid along the tubing and push the liquid along with them to the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Manish Agarwal, Michael S. Juenke
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Publication number: 20160090828Abstract: A system for removing methane from subterranean clathrates includes an oxidant source, a feed pipe, a recovery pipe, and an ignition source. The feed pipe includes an inlet end in fluid communication with the oxidant source and an outlet end configured to be disposed within a subterranean deposit that includes a stored methane gas disposed within a clathrate hydrate. The recovery pipe includes a first end disposed within the subterranean deposit and a second end opposite the first end configured to engage a storage device. The ignition source is configured to trigger a combustion reaction to melt the clathrate hydrate to produce a released methane gas. A first portion of the released methane gas travels along a recovery flow path through the recovery pipe and a second portion of the released methane gas combusts with the oxidant in-situ to perpetuate the combustion reaction.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: ELWHA LLCInventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
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Publication number: 20160090829Abstract: A system and method that uses fluid diversion to selectively re-fracture a location of a multizone horizontal wellbore. A tubing string is extended from the surface to a location within the wellbore that is to be re-fractured. The annulus between the tubing string and the wellbore contains a first fluid and a second fluid is contained within the tubing string. The annulus may be sealed off at or near the surface and the second fluid is pumped out of the tubing string to initiate the re-fracture of the first location. The annulus seal may then be unset and the first fluid may be pumped down the annulus simultaneous to pumping a third fluid down the tubing string to re-fracture the first location. After re-fracturing the first location, the first location may be hydraulically isolated from the wellbore to permit a second location to be re-fractured.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: ANGEL F. GONZALEZ
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Publication number: 20160090830Abstract: A method is provided for lowering the migration of a hydraulic fluid additive within a hydrocarbon-bearing formation penetrated by a well when producing hydraulic fracturing. Many chemical agents currently in use with water/sand (or other proppants) mixtures could pose human and animal health risks if these chemicals migrate from the shale beds into the environment contaminating the water table, rivers, streams and lakes. The fracturing fluid chemical additives employed are designed to be retained or anchored in or near the deep shale layers and are prevented, or greatly delayed from upward migration. Specifically, chemical additives required for proper fracturing fluid performance are covalently chemically bonded to inert particulate materials (e.g. silica having a particle size less than 2000 microns).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: BATTELION ENERGY LLCInventors: Brian C. BENICEWICZ, Gordon W. CALUNDANN
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Publication number: 20160090831Abstract: An electric auger-boring machine. The machine has electric motors for auger rotation and thrust. The electric rotation motor rotates the auger at a constant rate when the current provided is constant. The motor may slow or stop in response to changes in torque due to obstructions to auger rotation. Electric motors allow for auger thrusters and actuators to precisely operate. A wireless remote control controls motor and auger rotation and thrust from a distance away from a launch pit. Multiple sizes of product casings may be utilized and the auger-boring machine comprises an adjustable adaptor and saddle for use with a plurality of casing sizes.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: William Malcolm, Reed Carpenter, Robert Michael Colangelo, David Hammond, Brian Hollis, Kalpeshkumar V. Patel, Rick Rockwell, Stuart Riggenbach
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Publication number: 20160090832Abstract: A method of operating a bottom hole assembly having a drill pipe, an anti-stall tool, a motor and a drill bit in real-time including entering an upper torque threshold and a lower torque threshold as operating parameters for the bottom hole assembly into the anti-stall tool, continuously sensing torque of the bottom hole assembly by a torque sensor in the bottom hole assembly, electronically determining if the sensed torque has exceeded the upper torque threshold or the lower torque threshold for a specified duration of time requiring an intervention by the anti-stall tool, and communicating instructions to the anti-stall tool for proper hydro-mechanical adjustment of the anti-stall tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventor: Philip Wayne Mock
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Publication number: 20160090833Abstract: A method of installing multi-trip completions in a borehole. The method includes interfacing a health monitoring system with a first section of the multi-trip completions, the health monitoring system configured to engage with at least one of a first control line and first equipment of the first section. Running the health monitoring system and the first section downhole to a selected position within the borehole; storing information about a health of the at least one of the first control line and first equipment of the first section within the health monitoring system. Removing the health monitoring system from the borehole while leaving the first section within the borehole; accessing the information from the health monitoring system; and, determining, based on the information, whether or not to run a second section having a second control line into the borehole. The second control line configured to connect with the first control line.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2014Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Marc N. Samuelson, Christian F. Bayne, David S. Bishop
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Systems and Methods for Monitoring a Condition of a Tubular Configured to Convey a Hydrocarbon Fluid
Publication number: 20160090834Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring a condition of a tubular configured to convey a fluid such as for use in producing hydrocarbons in relationship with a hydrocarbon system related wellbore operation. The methods include transmitting a data signal along the tubular with the communication network. The methods may include initiating a tubular operation responsive to the data signal indicating that the condition of the tubular is outside a predetermined condition range. The methods may include transmitting the data signal by propagating the data signal along the tubular via a plurality of node-to-node communications between communication nodes of the communication network and monitoring a signal propagation property of the plurality of node-to-node communications that is indicative of the condition of the tubular. The methods may include detecting the condition of the tubular and generating a condition indication signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Inventors: Timothy I. Morrow, Mark M. Disko