Patents Issued in April 5, 2016
  • Patent number: 9303487
    Abstract: Materials are delivered within an expanded string before the string is subsequently compressively loaded such that the heat given off by the reaction of the delivered materials raises the fluid temperature in the recently expanded string to temperatures in a range of about 150-300 degrees Centigrade. The materials can be separated for delivery and then allowed to contact to initiate the reaction. Alternatively the materials can be delivered in separate conveyances for more immediate start of the exothermic reaction at the needed location or locations. To the extent there is curing cement about the expanded tubular, then the heat generated also reduces curing time to full setup of the sealing material. The applied heat counteracts or eliminates the Bauschinger effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Elisabeth Wilamowitz, Joerg Lehr
  • Patent number: 9303488
    Abstract: A method for removing hydrate plugs in a hydrocarbon production station, the method comprising: fluidically isolating the production station; diverting production flow to a bypass line; and adjusting the pressure in the production station to a level sufficient to melt the hydrate plugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Framo Engineering AS
    Inventor: Stig Kanstad
  • Patent number: 9303489
    Abstract: The present invention relates to subsea control modules (SCMs). According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a subsea control module (10) comprising a hydraulic manifold (12) and two separately retrievable subsea electronic modules (24a, 24b). The present invention also relates to a method of maintaining a subsea control module, and to a method of modifying an existing subsea control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: SUBC SOLUTIONS AS
    Inventors: Asgeir Salen, Bjørn Endresen
  • Patent number: 9303490
    Abstract: A multilateral junction system includes a multilateral junction device including a first bore leg; a second bore leg; a joint section having a first opening connected to the first bore leg and a second opening connected to the second bore leg. A main body extending from the joint section and including a third opening; and, a tube connected to the third opening. The tube configured to enable an upper completion to be run into a borehole together with the multilateral junction device. Also included is a method of improving multilateral operations in a borehole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Bryan P. Pendleton
  • Patent number: 9303491
    Abstract: There is disclosed a subsea cooler for the cooling of a fluid flowing in a subsea flow line. The subsea cooler comprises an inlet and an outlet which are connectable to the subsea flow line and at least two cooling sections arranged in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet of the subsea cooler. Each cooling section includes a plurality of cooling pipes which are configured such that they exchange heat energy with the surrounding sea water when the subsea cooler is in use. The subsea cooler is further provided with valve means such that the flow of fluid through the cooling sections may be regulated individually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Framo Engineering AS
    Inventors: Stig Kare Kanstad, Nils-Egil Kangas, Asmund Valland, Atle Berle
  • Patent number: 9303492
    Abstract: The device of the present disclosure comprises a holder (80) fixed to the first element and a connection element (82) borne by the holder (80). The connection element (82) is intended to engage on the second element (24). It is mounted with radial mobility in relation to the holder (80) between a separated placement configuration and a contracted configuration for holding the connection elements (82) on the second element (24). The or each connection element (82) comprises a self-locking system (100) and a mobile catching member (102), the catching member (102) being mounted with the ability to move in the self-locking system (100). The fixing device (22) comprises an actuator (104) for moving the catching member (102) in the self-locking system (100) between a deployed position and a position in which it is retracted in the self-locking system (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: TECHNIP FRANCE
    Inventors: Frédérick Vergne, Sylvain Routeau
  • Patent number: 9303493
    Abstract: A method of forming a slotted liner, having a wall comprising a plurality of non-axial bending members axially separated by non-axial slots and circumferentially interspersed with bases, for providing strain relief, the method comprising: forming the bending members and the non-axial slots by one of: cutting non-axial slots, and winding a rod; configuring the circumferential lengths of the plurality of non-axial slots and bases relative to the liner circumference; wherein positioning a first base axially adjacent to a non-axial slot; configuring the non-axial slot circumferential length longer than the circumferential length of the first base; and positioning a second base axially adjacent to a first base; providing connections between the pair of bases or leaving uncut the wall between the base pair; configuring the plurality of non-axial slots and adjacent base pairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: VAST POWER PORTFOLIO, LLC
    Inventor: David L. Hagen
  • Patent number: 9303494
    Abstract: The proposed hydro-mechanical slot-type perforator enables simultaneously performing at least two slots in a production column. The perforator includes a casing, upper and lower pistons movable within the casing, a cutting unit driven by the pistons and carrying extendable cutting tools, and, optionally, a retractable mechanism fixing the perforator for transportation. The extension is provided by rotatable shackles, or balance beams, or a combination thereof. The lower piston is moved by pressurized fluid supplied through hydraulic channels or a hydraulic system, made in the casing. The shackles rotate around axles being spaced apart, or coincided. The cutting tools can be mounted on the shackles' movable parts, and, when mutually interacted, oppositely extend the cutting tools during countermovement of the pistons. The cutting tools can be mounted in the balance beam's shoulders, or can represent sharp edges thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Passerby Inc.
    Inventor: Marie Pasvandi
  • Patent number: 9303495
    Abstract: An apparatus that includes a guiding tool for transferring fluid pressure to movement of a cutting tool relative to the guiding tool while the cutting tool is cutting slots in a casing or formation via at least one nozzle disposed in the cutting tool. Furthermore, a method of cutting a slot in a casing or formation using the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock Watson, Roger Schultz
  • Patent number: 9303496
    Abstract: A submersible pump system that is operable to permit selective access into a production zone of a well bore while a submersible pumping device is operating includes a Y-tool, a submersible pumping device, a control valve assembly and a power conduit. The control valve assembly is also operable to selectively permit access between the interior of the submersible pumping system and the exterior of the submersible pumping system. The valve is operable to form a dynamic seal. The power conduit is operable to convey both power and a pre-designated control signal simultaneously. A method for accessing the production zone of the well bore with a well bore tool uses the submersible pump system while the submersible pump system is producing production zone fluid. The submersible pumping device continues to operate without interruption after transmission of the pre-designated pump control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Jinjiang Xiao, Randall Alan Shepler
  • Patent number: 9303497
    Abstract: Non-halogenated molecules having 10-30 carbons including aliphatic, aromatic, saturated, unsaturated (and combinations thereof) alcohols, ketones, organic acids, organic acid salts, sulfonated derivatives, and/or other derivatives are used as tracers to measure oil and/or water fluid returns, such as from a hydraulic fracturing job. The non-halogenated molecules may be combined with substrates and introduced into a subterranean location, desorbed and recovered from the subterranean location with a fluid, reacted with a reagent (e.g. pentafluoro benzyl chloride) to give a derivatized tracer. Alternatively, the tracer molecule release can be delayed by use of an emulsion or a coating that allows slower diffusion of the tracer into the fluid. The presence of the derivatized tracer is then detected in the recovered fluid. A different non-halogenated tracer may be used for each hydraulic fracturing stage, e.g. to determine from which fracturing stage water is produced and from which oil is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Ronald M. Matherly, Grahame N. Taylor
  • Patent number: 9303498
    Abstract: Subsea apparatus (10) for processing a well stream (2) and a method of processing a well stream subsea is described. In an embodiment, liquid (5) and gas (3) contained in the well stream (2) is separated. The separated gas (3) is cooled and the cooled gas (32) is combined with the separated liquid (5) to form a wet gas (52) for a compressor (90). An active cooling arrangement (30) may be used in one example to enhance the cooling effect provided by the cooler (30). Advantageously, the apparatus (10) can be arranged compactly, and may be provided on a subsea retrievable module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: STATOIL PETROLEUM AS
    Inventors: Tom Grimseth, William Bakke, Tor Bjørge, Håvard Torpe, Håvard Eidsmoen, Birgitte Nordheim Tveter, Harald Underbakke, Lars Brenne
  • Patent number: 9303499
    Abstract: A method for enhancing the recovery of hydrocarbon deposit includes the step of sensing a material property of an underground volume. A three-dimensional map identifying the spatial variation in the sensed material property of the underground volume is generated. Propagating electromagnetic radiation is transmitted in the volume based on the map. The propagating electromagnetic radiation transmission is varied in at least one of frequency, polarization, wavelength, frequency, amplitude, mode, and phase in response to the variation in the material property of a region within the volume to which the propagating electromagnetic radiation is directed. Accordingly, the volume is heated in a spatially varying manner to heat material in the volume and thereby induce the flow of hydrocarbon deposits from the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9303500
    Abstract: A method for initiating steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) mobilization and recovery of hydrocarbons in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation includes initially forming a circulation path by connecting SAGD injection well and a circulation well. The circulation well can be a SAGD production well or a separate well completed adjacent a toe of the injection well. Initially, a thermal carrier such as steam or flue gases, is circulated, forming a thermal chamber about the injection well. One initial start-up is complete, the circulation path is decoupled for further propagating the thermal chamber and establishing steady-state SAGD operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: R.I.I. NORTH AMERICA INC
    Inventors: Fred Schneider, Greg Kuran, Lynn P. Tessier
  • Patent number: 9303501
    Abstract: A method for fracturing a hydrocarbon-containing formation includes running a tubing string into an open hole and uncased, non-vertical section of the wellbore, and expanding first, second, and third solid body packers until each sets and seals against the wellbore wall. The method also includes applying a first pressure within the tubing string inner bore such that the hydraulically actuated sliding sleeve moves from a closed port position to an open port position without engaging any fluid conveyed sealing device. The method also includes conveying a sealing device through the tubing string, passing through a first sliding sleeve and landing in and sealing against a second sliding sleeve's seat moving the second sliding sleeve to an open port position permitting fluid flow through a second port. And the method includes pumping fracturing fluid through the second port and into an annular wellbore segment to fracture the hydrocarbon-containing formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Packers Plus Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Fehr, Daniel Jon Themig
  • Patent number: 9303502
    Abstract: Water production from a subterranean formation is inhibited or controlled by pumping a fluid containing coated particles through a wellbore into the formation. The particles have been previously coated with a relative permeability modifier (RPM). Upon contact with water, the RPM coating expands or swells and inhibits and controls the production of water. The RPM may be a water hydrolyzable polymer having a weight average molecular weight greater than 100,000. The particles may be conventional proppants or gravel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Tianping Huang, James B. Crews, John R. Willingham
  • Patent number: 9303503
    Abstract: Three-phase separation is achieved downhole in a production well by forming an oil/liquid separation zone in the well between two packers which are positioned between producing and disposal zones. Gas is permitted to separate above the top packer. A pump is used to pump an oil/water mixture from above the top packer into the separation zone. Adequate residence time is permitted in the separation zone to achieve the separation. A check valve in the bottom packer is used to provide pressure to raise the oil to the wellhead. A control valve at the wellhead is used to control pressure in the separation zone and the relative sizes of the streams issuing therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventors: Michael C. Ramsey, Michael L. Finley
  • Patent number: 9303504
    Abstract: Systems and methods utilize bicarbonate and acid to form carbon dioxide in a well (e.g., an oil well) to increase pressure in the well to facilitate production of oil and other resources, such as hydrocarbons, from the well. The well can be a closed system that facilitates absorption of the carbon dioxide into the oil resource. After the carbon dioxide is absorbed within the oil, the oil containing the carbon dioxide can be produced by the well. The carbon dioxide can be recycled after the resource is mined from the well to create bicarbonate that subsequently can be used with acid to facilitate the production from the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignees: James K. and Mary A. Sanders Family LLC
    Inventors: James Kenneth Sanders, Duck Joo Yang
  • Patent number: 9303505
    Abstract: A method of generating a directional response of a drill bit based on one or more drilling parameters includes performing actual or simulated tests with a drill bit in a test material having a strength under different experimental drilling parameters and recording the results of the plurality of tests. A representation of an expected directional response of the drill bit is formed based on the results. Current drilling parameters are receiving current drilling parameters at a computing device and the directional response is generated based on the current drilling parameters by utilizing the representation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Reed W. Spencer, Jonathan M. Hanson
  • Patent number: 9303506
    Abstract: A measurement system for collecting data. The measurement system includes a tubular suspended downhole, the tubular having an outer surface and a flowbore extending therethrough, the flowbore conveying a fluid, a first recess formed in the outer surface of the tubular, a first detection system mounted in the first recess, a second recess formed in the outer surface of the tubular, and a second detection system mounted in the second recess. The second recess is offset relative to the first recess by at least one of an axial distance and a circumferential distance. The first detection system is operable to measure a portion of the data, and the second detection system operable to measure another portion of the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Adan Hernandez Herrera, James H. Dudley, Michael Dewayne Finke, Christopher Allen Golla
  • Patent number: 9303507
    Abstract: This present invention generally relates to the issue of signal obstruction in down hole applications. This invention relates to conformal coatings and down hole transmission systems to aid in transmission of wireless signals down hole. The conformal coating includes a substrate material that has an array of rods embedded therein. These embedded rods are made of a Mie Resonance based dielectric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Michael John Black, Brett Wayne Bouldin, Mohamed N. Noui-Mehidi
  • Patent number: 9303508
    Abstract: Example in-situ stress measurements in hydrocarbon bearing shales are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes lowering a downhole tool into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean shale formation, logging via the downhole tool, a portion of the wellbore adjacent the shale formation to generate logging results, processing the logging results to select test intervals along the portion of the wellbore, performing a stress test at one or more of the selected test intervals to generate stress test results for the shale formation, and adjusting a model representing at least one property of the shale formation based on the stress test results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hariharan Ramakrishnan, George Waters, Edward C. Boratko, Ahmad Latifzal, Doug Bentley
  • Patent number: 9303509
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising first and second fluid intakes, a pump, and a sample chamber, may be positioned in a borehole penetrating a subterranean formation. A method of use thereof may comprise drawing fluid from the subterranean formation and into the first and second fluid intakes using the pump, discharging into the borehole at least a portion of the fluid drawn into the second fluid intake, and selectively diverting at least a portion of the fluid drawn into the first fluid intake to the sample chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Milkovisch, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Simon Ross
  • Patent number: 9303510
    Abstract: Fluid analysis measurements may be performed during withdrawal of a downhole tool to the surface. Fluid may be collected within a fluid analysis system of the downhole tool and the collected fluid may be exposed to the wellbore pressure during withdrawal of the downhole tool. Measurements for the collected fluid, such as optical density, the gas oil ratio, fluid density, fluid viscosity, fluorescence, temperature, and pressure, among other, may be recorded continuously or at intervals as the downhole tool is brought to the surface. The measurements may be employed to determine properties of the collected fluid, such as the saturation pressure and the asphaltene onset pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hadrien Dumont, Michael O'Keefe, Beatriz E. Barbosa, Oliver C. Mullins, Youxiang Zuo, Vinay Mishra
  • Patent number: 9303511
    Abstract: A flat cutter bit for engaging an earth strata material includes a non-rotatable shank portion, a head portion integrally formed with the non-rotatable shank portion and including a tip region distal from the non-rotatable shank portion, and a cutting insert mounted at the tip region of the head portion. The cutting insert includes a body having an angled leading face, a top surface having a relief surface, a T-land surface extending between the angled leading face and the relief surface of the top surface and a cutting edge formed at the intersection of the T-land surface and the relief surface of the top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: KENNAMETAL INC.
    Inventors: Nicholas J. Paros, Stephen M. George, Glenn W. Sheffler, Don C. Rowlett
  • Patent number: 9303512
    Abstract: A vane pump includes a vane cam mounted in a recess of a rotor, and configured to move with eccentricity with respect to an axis of rotation of the rotor. A cam port is formed in a surface of a pump body facing the vane cam, and configured to hydraulically communicate with the recess of the rotor. The vane cam includes an outer peripheral surface configured to contact a proximal end of each of vanes, and configured to cause projection of the vanes along with rotation of the rotor. The vane cam hydraulically separates the proximal end portion of a first slot in a suction region from the proximal end portion of a second slot in a discharge region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventor: Masaaki Iijima
  • Patent number: 9303513
    Abstract: A turbomachine including at least one blade-row group that is arranged in the main flow path and at least two rows of blades that are adjacent to each other in the main flow direction, each row having a plurality of blades, whereby the trailing edges of the blades of the upstream row of blades and the leading edges of the blades of the downstream row of blades are arranged at an axial edge distance that decreases from the center of the main flow path in the direction of at least one main flow limiter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: MTU Aero Engines GmbH
    Inventors: Sergio Elorza Gomez, Tim Schneider
  • Patent number: 9303514
    Abstract: A fluid working apparatus (130) includes a housing structure (130) with an inlet (132), an outlet (133), an outer housing member (134) defining a tubular portion with an inner surface and an inner housing member (138) within the outer housing member (130) and having an outer surface spaced from the inner surface such that a working flow chamber (141) is defined between the radially inner most portions of the outer and inner surfaces and a return chamber (140) is defined between the radially outer most portions of the outer and inner surfaces. A working assembly is positioned in the housing with a rotor (114) thereof rotatably supported in the housing structure (130) and extending into the working flow chamber (141). At least one return assembly (140, 142) is positioned within the tubular portion and configured to return fluid flow from an outlet side to an inlet side of the working assembly (141). A method of defining a re-circulating working fluid apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Harris Corporation
    Inventors: William Robert Palmer, Kenneth E. Brace
  • Patent number: 9303515
    Abstract: A turbomachine diaphragm includes a sealing section having a first end portion that extends to a second end portion through an intermediate portion. At least one rail member includes a first end section that extends from the first end portion of the sealing section to a second end section through an intermediate section having an inner surface section and an outer surface section. The second end section includes a machined surface having a repair coupon mounting element. A repair coupon is mounted at the repair coupon mounting element and operatively connected to the at least one rail member. A method of repairing a turbomachine diaphragm is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Anshuman Singh, Paul Lawrence Kalmar, Graham David Sherlock, Americo Zapata
  • Patent number: 9303516
    Abstract: A movable blade for a turbomachine, the blade including at its distal end a top portion including opposite first and second side edges and upstream and downstream sealing wipers. Each of the first and second side edges has a substantially Z-shaped profile between the upstream and downstream wipers. On a side of the first side edge, the platform includes a first outwardly projecting rim not connected to either of the upstream and downstream wipers. The platform includes a second outwardly projecting rim, the second rim including a downstream portion connected to the downstream wiper and extending along the second edge, and an upstream portion extending the downstream portion as far as the upstream wiper, and set back relative to the second side edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: SNECMA
    Inventors: Yannick Collin, Thomas Lardellier, David Mathieu, Denis Trahot, Christophe Remy, Xavier Godfrind
  • Patent number: 9303517
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the disclosure include a component, methods of forming components, and methods of cooling components. In some embodiments, a component is disclosed including: a body; a microchannel extending through a portion of the body; a thermal barrier coating (TBC) covering a portion of the microchannel; and a marker member extending from the microchannel through the TBC or from an end of the microchannel, the marker member indicating a location of the microchannel in the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Benjamin Paul Lacy, Srikanth Chandrudu Kottilingam, David Edward Schick, Brian Lee Tollison
  • Patent number: 9303518
    Abstract: A component for a gas turbine engine according to an exemplary embodiment can include a platform having an outer surface and an inner surface. A cover plate can be positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the platform. The outer surface of the platform can include a pocket and the cover plate is positioned relative to the pocket to establish a platform cooling channel therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Willey, Matthew S. Gleiner, Russell Deibel
  • Patent number: 9303519
    Abstract: A damper for a turbine rotor assembly of a gas turbine engine may include a forward plate including a forward face and an aft face, and an aft plate including a forward face and an aft face. The aft face of the forward plate may be connected to the forward face of the aft plate with a longitudinal structure. An area of the aft plate in a plane transverse to the longitudinal structure may be larger than an area of the forward plate in the plane transverse to the longitudinal structure. The damper may also include a nub projecting from a lower portion of the aft face of the aft plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Solar Turbines Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey Eugene Tarczy, Leslie John Faulder
  • Patent number: 9303520
    Abstract: The assembly has a first guide vane having a first end, a second end opposed to the first end, and a second guide vane having a first end, a second end opposed to its first end. A first end structure spans between the first guide vane first end and the second guide vane first end. A second end structure spans between the first guide vane second end and the second guide vane second end. The first guide vane, the second guide vane, the first end structure, and the second end structure are integrally formed together to form a double vane with a continuous outer surface, and a continuous inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: William Howard Hasting, Courtney James Tudor
  • Patent number: 9303521
    Abstract: An interstage coverplate assembly is provided for a rotor assembly. The coverplate assembly includes an annular first coverplate, an annular second coverplate and an annular coverplate lock that extends axially between and rotatably connects the first and the second coverplates. The first coverplate includes a plurality of coverplate tabs arranged circumferentially around an axial centerline. The coverplate lock includes a plurality of lock tabs arranged circumferentially around the centerline. A first of the lock tabs circumferentially engages a first of the coverplate tabs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Jason Arnold
  • Patent number: 9303522
    Abstract: A method for repairing run-in coatings is provided. The method includes the steps of filling a damaged site of the run-in coating with a filling material having a material composition that corresponds to a material composition of the run-in coating or is comparable to the material composition of the run-in coating or having material properties that are comparable to material properties of the run-in coating; drying the filling material that has been filled into the damaged site; depositing a donor diffusion layer over an area of the damaged site and onto the dried filling material; and thermally treating the run-in coating at least in the area of the damaged site to locally diffuse at least one metallic element from the donor diffusion layer into the filling material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: MTU Aero Engines GmbH
    Inventors: Manfred A. Daeubler, Horst Mueller-Wittek, Renate Mendritzki, André Werner, Heinrich Walter
  • Patent number: 9303523
    Abstract: A sensor communication system includes an electromagnetic waveguide disposed adjacent to at least one component of a machine. The electromagnetic waveguide can be configured to convey a fluid within the machine. The sensor communication system can also include a sensor assembly, which includes a sensor operable to sense at least one condition and a transmitter at least partially positioned in the electromagnetic waveguide. The transmitter can be operatively coupled to the sensor and be operable to emit a signal corresponding to the at least one condition sensed by the sensor. The sensor communication system can also include a receiver at least partially positioned in the electromagnetic waveguide and operable to wirelessly receive the signal emitted by the transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce North American Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Rigoberto Rodriguez, Mark Blackwelder
  • Patent number: 9303524
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine (100) variable nozzle (460) includes an outer shroud (461), an inner shroud (462), a variable nozzle airfoil (463), and a position selector (470). The inner shroud (462) is located radially inward from the outer shroud (461). The variable nozzle airfoil (463) extends radially between the outer shroud (461) and the inner shroud (462). The variable nozzle airfoil (463) includes a vane shaft (464) extending radially outward from the variable nozzle airfoil (463) through the outer shroud (461). The position selector (470) is coupled with the variable nozzle airfoil (463) to fixedly lock the variable nozzle airfoil (463) into one of a plurality of preselected positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Solar Turbines Incorporated
    Inventors: John James Hensley, Ulrich Edmund Stang
  • Patent number: 9303525
    Abstract: A method for determining calibration data for at least two cameras (camera1, camera2) in a multi view position, includes a step of determining respective parameters ((h100, . . . , h122), (h200, . . . , h222)) for identifying at least one respective homographic transformation on respective images (image1,image2) taken by said cameras of a same scene, by performing respective geometry analyses on said respective images (image1, image2), a step of performing at least one respective combined homographic transformation/feature detection step on said respective images thereby obtaining respective sets (feature set1, feature set2) of features on respective transformed images, such that said calibration data are obtained from matches (ml, . . . , mk) determined between said respective sets of features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Alcatel Lucent
    Inventors: Maarten Aerts, Donny Tytgat, Jean-Francois Macq, Sammy Lievens
  • Patent number: 9303526
    Abstract: A cooling system is provided for cooling a turbine of a gas turbine engine. The system has first and second flow paths for guiding cooling air received from the compressor of the engine. The routes of both flow paths bypass the combustor of the engine. The system also has a preswirler for receiving the cooling air at the ends of the two flow paths, swirling the cooling air tangentially to the engine axis, and delivering the swirled cooling air to a rotor of the turbine. The first flow path is routed through a heat exchanger which cools the cooling air guided by the first flow path relative to the cooling air guided by the second flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE plc
    Inventors: Adam P. Chir, Andrew M. Rolt
  • Patent number: 9303527
    Abstract: A hub cooling apparatus adapted to a wind generator has a circulating fan module installed in a nosed end of a hub and a wind guiding module installed in a main shaft of a nacelle; wherein the circulating fan module is driven by the rotating hub, the wind guiding module is driven by the rotating main shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Jung-Kuei Lin, Yun-Yuan Chang
  • Patent number: 9303528
    Abstract: A thermal radiation shield comprises a first mounting base and a ring section. The first mounting base is disposed at a first axial end of the ring section for securing the shield ring section within a generally annular cavity defined at least in part by a hot fluid flow path boundary wall, and a radially adjacent and spaced apart cold fluid flow path boundary wall. The ring section is configured to substantially block a line of sight between the hot fluid flow path boundary wall and the cold fluid flow path boundary wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Paul K. Sanchez, Jorge I. Farah
  • Patent number: 9303529
    Abstract: A lube spacer bearing for a lube and scavenge pump includes a bearing body defining a bore with a central axis. The bearing body has a first axial side, a second axial side, an outer radial side, and an inner radial side at the bore. The outer radial side includes an arcuate portion. A channel is defined in the arcuate portion of the outer radial side and extends a circumferential length about the outer radial side. The channel has a channel width (CW) defined between a first channel wall and a second channel wall and a bearing length (BL) defined between the first axial side and the second axial side. A ratio of CW/BL is between 0.45 and 0.70.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Michael D. Schelonka
  • Patent number: 9303530
    Abstract: A fan shroud assembly includes a first fan shroud and a second fan shroud. The first fan shroud includes a first segment, a second segment, and a flexible, gas impermeable seal interconnecting the first and second segments. The first segment includes an annular body. The flexible, gas impermeable seal is coupled to the first segment. The second segment includes a circumferential connecting wall and a flange extending from the circumferential connecting wall. The second fan shroud is coupled to the second segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: John M. Albert, Joseph H. Alexander, Sebastian Dinh Hoang
  • Patent number: 9303531
    Abstract: A quick engine change assembly, comprises a first circular frame member, a plurality of doublet supports spaced about the first circular frame member, the doublet supports being contoured along the axial direction, a flow surface defined between the plurality of doublet supports and, a plurality of cradles, each of the cradles including the doublet supports, the doublet supports from a lower portion of the cradle to the flow surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: William Howard Hasting, Courtney James Tudor
  • Patent number: 9303532
    Abstract: An article of manufacture includes a first member configured to be attached to a first support structure, a second member configured to be attached to the first member, and an externally threaded dowel configured to engage an internally threaded hole in the second member. The externally threaded member is also configured to contact the first member. Rotation of the externally threaded dowel adjusts a distance spanned by the first member and second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Brett Darrick Klingler
  • Patent number: 9303533
    Abstract: A method for producing work from heat including mixing a first working fluid F1 vapor with a second working fluid F2 vapor to form a third working fluid F3; atomizing and/or vaporizing a liquid into the third working fluid F3 to define a saturated working fluid; and expanding the saturated working fluid to perform useful work. A high pressure F1(2) portion of the first working fluid F1 may be expanded prior to the mixing step while the F2 vapor is compressed prior to the mixing step. The steps of compressing the F2 vapor and expanding the high pressure F1(2) portion of the first working fluid F1 may be carried out by an integral compressor and expander assembly (204/209). The integral compressor and expander assembly (204/209) may be positioned within a combined mixer assembly (300) with an internal mixing chamber (206) and outlets (375, 351) of both the compressor (204) and expander (209) are directed toward the mixing chamber 206.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Harris Corporation
    Inventor: William R. Palmer
  • Patent number: 9303534
    Abstract: A cylinder valve system in an engine is provided. The cylinder valve system includes a first oil pressurized bore corresponding to a cylinder valve and in fluidic communication with a control valve assembly, the control valve assembly comprising at least one hydraulic valve and a second oil pressurized bore corresponding to the cylinder valve and in fluidic communication with the control valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Charles Fabros
  • Patent number: 9303535
    Abstract: An oil control valve mounting arrangement includes a resin cover 5 with a metal cylindrical body 4 insert-molded therein, a valve sleeve 3 housed within the cylindrical body 4, and a spool 2 inserted in the valve sleeve 3. In at least at one end portion 14 of the cylindrical body 4 in the axial direction of the valve sleeve 3, the cover 5 includes an engaging portion 19 engageable with an interior-facing face 15b of the cylindrical body 4 facing the radially inner side of the valve sleeve 3 at an end of the cylindrical body 4 in the axis direction of the valve sleeve 3 so as to restrict displacement of the cover 5 away from the cylindrical body 4 in the radial direction of the valve sleeve 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Naoki Kira, Takahiro Inokuchi, Atsushi Nishigaki, Kenji Nonaka
  • Patent number: 9303536
    Abstract: A valve opening and closing time control apparatus includes; a relative rotation angle control unit performs most delayed angle setting control of setting a relative rotation angle between a driving side rotating body and a driven side rotating body to the most delayed angle when performing an automatic stop, and most delayed angle restriction control of maintaining the relative rotation angle in the most delayed angle from a beginning of the automatic start until reaching a set timing when the automatic start-up begins, and releasing a maintenance of the most delayed angle after the setting timing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shigemitsu Suzuki, Naoto Toma, Hiroki Mukaide