Patents Issued in April 7, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160097223
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle door lock arrangement with a motor vehicle lock, wherein a force transmission chain is provided and wherein an actuation movement may be transmitted via the force transmission chain for opening of the motor vehicle lock, which force transmission chain is designed for a longitudinal force transmission along a longitudinal extension of movement, wherein a crash coupling arrangement is provided between two force transmission chain sections, which comprises a coupling element in the form of a coupling spring element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: David Rosales, Michael Wittelsbuerger, Stepan Hanke
  • Publication number: 20160097224
    Abstract: An automated child safety unlocking system for automobiles which disengages the child safety locks and unlocks the doors at appropriate times during events such as vehicle crashes. The vehicle ECU continually monitors the status of the vehicle to check if a crash event has occurred via various methods such as the status of airbag deployment, accelerometers placed in the car, and crumple points. In the event of a crash the vehicle ECU transmits one of at least two CSL command signals a child safety lock ECU. The command signals are each specific to an event severity and event type, and the child safety lock ECU then interprets the signal and acts according to the signal type. If the data interpreted indicates a crash, the child safety lock ECU unlocks the child safety locks, and if it does not determine a crash has not occurred, the locks remain engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: David Fernandez-Aguilera, Arturo Carlos-Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20160097225
    Abstract: An embodiment provides a lock-release apparatus including: a rotation member to actuate a locking member; a case member rotatably supporting the rotation member; an operation member slidable in a direction substantially in parallel to a rotation plane of the rotation member; and a spring member urging the rotation member in a given rotation direction. The lock-release apparatus further includes a link structure converting a sliding movement of the operation member into a rotational movement of the rotation member. More specifically, the case member includes: an accommodation section slidably accommodating the operation member to allow an operation face thereof to be exposed; and a support section rotatably supporting the rotation member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Satoru TAMAKI
  • Publication number: 20160097226
    Abstract: Described are trimless door frames and energy absorbing door stops. The energy absorbing door stop allows for relative movement between the door stop and the surrounding door frame. The relative movement of the energy absorbing door stop helps to distribute and dissipate forces and vibrations from opening and closing a door, reducing the levels of force transferred into the surrounding wall. The reduction in forces applied to the wall allows for the elimination of heavy door framing and trim. Since door trim is no longer necessary, trimless door frames may be installed with a smooth appearance without cracks appearing in the surrounding wall due to stress or fatigue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: William J. Timko, Mark E. Brinkman
  • Publication number: 20160097227
    Abstract: A hinge device includes two rotation units and a base capable of relatively rotating; one radial side of the base is formed with an arc-shaped recess in which an axial connection part is formed, one axial side of the arc-shaped recess is formed with an action space; the rotation units are respectively disposed in the action space and the arc-shaped recess, and axial sides thereof are respectively formed a first axial connection part and a second axial connection part and an arc-shaped structure and an arc-shaped channel, each axial connection part is connected to each other for allowing the rotation units to respectively move along the action space and the arc-shaped recess for being rotated in or out of the base; the rotation units can only be in contact at the axial side for forming a sequentially rotating status but also at a radial lateral circumference for synchronously rotating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Yu-Tsun HSU
  • Publication number: 20160097228
    Abstract: A method of installing a storm door is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: attaching a track to a door head; attaching one or more rollers to the track; and attaching the storm door to the one or more rollers. After the storm door is installed, the storm door can be slid along a length of the track between an open position and a closed position. While sliding the storm door between the open position and the dosed position, the storm door remains generally parallel to the door head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Zdzislaw Stanislaw Wypych
  • Publication number: 20160097229
    Abstract: A slide rail assembly includes first and second rails, a retaining member, and a bracket. The second rail is movable to a retracted position relative to the first rail. The retaining member is connected to the second rail. The bracket includes a side plate connected to the first rail, an end plate bent from the side plate, and a movable member movably connected to the side plate. The movable member has at least one retaining portion corresponding to the end plate. When the second rail is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the retaining member faces the movable member so that the second rail can, via the retaining member, restrict displacement of the movable member relative to the retaining member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: KEN-CHING CHEN, SHUN-HO YANG, CHUN-YI HO, CHUN-CHIANG WANG
  • Publication number: 20160097230
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the force in a door operator or closer includes a tube rotatable about a longitudinal axis and a coil spring therein connected to door operator/closer. A fixed adjusting screw extends along the longitudinal axis of the housing through the coil spring and a spring collar is threaded onto the adjusting screw and rotatable with the tube. The spring collar bears on the distal end of the spring to vary the spring compression upon rotation of the housing and thereby vary force applied by the door operator or closer. The housing has an opening though which the spring is visible, and the tube has markings indicating the degree of spring compression. An indicator is moveable along and visible outside the housing to indicate the compression of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Peter Zasowski, Dustin Lawhon, Robert M. Bell
  • Publication number: 20160097231
    Abstract: An impact reduction device includes a pressing mechanism in an open-close device to press a first member in a direction in which the first member returns to an initial state. The open-close device includes the first member independently rotatable around a shaft from the initial state to a first angle, and a second member integrally rotatable with the first member around the shaft from the initial state to a second angle greater than the first angle. The pressing mechanism presses the first member in the direction in which the first member returns to the initial state using a first force until the first angle is reached, and presses the first member in the direction in which the first member together with the second member returns to the initial state using a second force greater than the first force between the first angle and the second angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventor: Keiichi SHIMIZU
  • Publication number: 20160097232
    Abstract: A paper currency saving device that includes: a housing, where the housing includes a plurality of sides; an opening in one of the plurality of sides, where the opening enables paper currency to pass into the housing; and a plurality of tiles on the housing, where the plurality of tiles are arranged to completely cover the housing. The housing may be cuboidal in shape and include a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a top side, a bottom side, a front face and a back face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Tracy Spencer
  • Publication number: 20160097233
    Abstract: A door frame member made from Celuka PVC is provided for use as the jambs and upper transverse member of a garage door frame. The door frame member has a first structural element and a second decorative facing element which are attached by means of fusion welding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Trevor Thomas Esler
  • Publication number: 20160097234
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a capped stile for an entry door having an interior backer element and an exterior cap element secured thereto. The exterior cap element is formed from a moisture resistant, foamed polymer composite and has a specific gravity of about 0.9 or less. A door having the disclosed capped stile, and a method of forming a door, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Gary T. FAGAN, Matthew D. WHITE, Daniel FULTON
  • Publication number: 20160097235
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a window frame comprising a rigid framework cross-section comprising a truss structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventor: Dragan Charlie Curcija
  • Publication number: 20160097236
    Abstract: Provided is a photoreactive smart window. The photoreactive smart window includes a liquid crystal layer of which light transmittance changes according to the presence of ultraviolet (UV) light and which is combined with a solar cell. The photoreactive smart window is in a transparent condition in the daytime when UV light is generated from the sun, and accordingly sunlight passing therethrough is converted into electric energy. Also, the photoreactive smart window is in an opaque condition in the evening and at night when no UV light is generated from the sun, and accordingly no curtains are necessary on the windows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Doo-Hyun KO, Byoung-Kwon MIN, Hyun-Keun KWON, Kyu-Tae LEE, Hyungduk KO, Ilki HAN
  • Publication number: 20160097237
    Abstract: A drill bit for use in a wellbore is disclosed, including a bit body having a longitudinal axis; and at least one moveable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body, wherein the at least one moveable member is configured to translate in a member axis that is substantially longitudinal. Further, a method of drilling a wellbore is disclosed, including providing a drill bit including a bit body having a longitudinal axis and at least one movable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body; conveying a drill string into a formation, the drill string having the drill bit at the end thereof; drilling the wellbore using the drill string; and selectively translating at least one movable member in a member axis that is substantially longitudinal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Reed W. Spencer, Chaitanya K. Vempati
  • Publication number: 20160097238
    Abstract: A machine comprising a frame including a front-right portion, a front-left portion, a rear-right portion, and a rear-left portion. The machine includes a first jack coupled with the front-right portion for raising or lowering the front-right portion, a second jack coupled with the front-left portion for raising or lowering the front-left portion, a third jack coupled with the rear-right portion for raising or lowering the rear-right portion, and a fourth jack coupled with the rear-left portion for raising or lowering the rear-left portion. The machine includes a front jack leveling system operatively coupled with the first jack and the second jack. The front jack leveling system controls the first jack and the second jack such that a first movement of the first jack in a first direction corresponds to a second movement of the second jack in a second direction that is opposite from the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Marek
  • Publication number: 20160097239
    Abstract: A method and device are for making lateral openings out of a wellbore in a ground formation where at least one laterally directed drill string is movable in the axial direction inside a motherbore tubular, and where the leading end portion of the drill string is equipped with the drill bit that is driven by a rotatable drill string. The method includes connecting a fluid driven engine to the rotatable drill string inside the motherbore tubular, and directing flow in the motherbore tubular through the fluid driven engine to create rotation of the drill bit via the drill string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: Fishbones AS
    Inventor: Rune Freyer
  • Publication number: 20160097240
    Abstract: A system is described herein for performing off shore field operations. The system includes a number of process measuring devices that measure real-time process data. The system can further include a wellhead stack positioned at a sea floor, where the wellhead stack performs managed pressure drilling (MPD) as part of the field operations. The system can also include a dynamic process module executing on a hardware processor and providing first real-time output during the MPD using the real-time process data, where the dynamic process module includes a first off-the-shelf software package communicably coupled to a first model. The system can further include a dynamic integration engine executing on a hardware processor and receiving a first real-time output from the first model of the dynamic process module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.
    Inventors: Henry H. Ren, Amitkumar C. Jain, John B. Trenery, Dale G. Straub, Pete A. James
  • Publication number: 20160097241
    Abstract: A cutting element for an earth-boring drilling tool and its method of making are provided. The cutting element may include a substrate, a superhard layer, and a sensing element. The superhard layer may be bonded to the substrate along an interface. The superhard layer may have a working surface opposite the interface and an outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface may extend between the working surface and the interface. The sensing element may comprise at least a part of the superhard layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Joel Vaughn, Steven W. Webb, Patrick Georges Gabriel Dapsalmon
  • Publication number: 20160097242
    Abstract: The polycrystalline diamond compact cutter includes a diamond table and a carbide substrate. Different zones of the diamond table with relative thermal stability and toughness to each other are arranged for a particular cutting efficiency and working life. A thermally stable zone has a metal formation agent removed and forms a top outer ring. A base zone bonds to the carbide substrate on the bottom surface of the diamond table. An anchor zone sets between the thermally stable zone and the base zone, and an absorbing zone extends from the top surface to the base zone. The absorbing zone is circumscribed by the thermally stable zone and the anchor zone. The weight percentage metal content of the anchor zone is less than weight percentage metal content of the base zone. The weight percentage metal content of the base zone is less than weight percentage metal content of the absorbing zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Liang ZHAO, Xiaomin CHENG
  • Publication number: 20160097243
    Abstract: A pumping system useful for pumping fluids from a subterranean formation to a surface facility includes a first component and a second component connected to the first component with a neck flange. The pumping system further includes a motor lead cable that provides electrical power from the surface facility to the pumping system and a cable protector connected to the neck flange that secures the motor lead cable to the first and second components. The cable protector includes a first clamp section and a second clamp section. The second clamp section includes a lead cable recess that extends in a longitudinal direction along the exterior of the second clamp section and a band recess that extends in a circumferential direction along the exterior of the second clamp section. A tie or band resides in the band recess and extends around the circumference of the cable protector to secure the motor lead cable within the lead cable recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Aaron Noakes, James Le
  • Publication number: 20160097244
    Abstract: A method of increasing a roughness of coiled tubing injector blocks that includes providing a pair of gripper blocks each having a gripper surface configured to grip coiled tubing within an injector head and increasing a first roughness on the gripping surfaces to a second roughness. A coating may be applied to the gripping surfaces to increase the roughness. The coating may be chromium carbide, molybdenum boride, iron boride, titanium boride, or a transitional metal boride. The gripping surfaces may be treated to increase the roughness to a second roughness. The gripping surfaces may be blasted by abrasives or shot peened to increase the roughness. The second roughness may be greater than 20 ?m. A system to inject coiled tubing into a wellbore may include an injector head, coiled tubing, and at least two gripper blocks having a gripping surface with a roughness of at least 20 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Silviu Livescu, Vivekanand Sista, John Delorey, Thomas J. Watkins
  • Publication number: 20160097245
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for disconnecting an end rod from a drill string coupled together by a threaded connection is provided. A rod handling apparatus includes a gripper unit having a floating sled with a sensor unit configured to monitor relative axial position of the sled relative to a frame of the gripper unit to determine a decoupling of the threaded connection and a separation of an end rod from the drill string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Johan JELGERT, Lars-Erik LARSSON, Per VILEN, Kent EVERMARK
  • Publication number: 20160097246
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a pipeline wrench, that includes a housing which has a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a roller coupled with the housing near the first end of the housing, an idler pulley coupled with the housing, a belt between the roller and at least a portion of an opening, the belt extending beyond the first end of the housing, wherein a position of the idler pulley is adjustable such that a change in position results in a change in an amount of the belt that extends beyond the first end, and a first motor coupled with the axle of the roller, wherein operation of the first motor causes the axle to rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Harvey B. Youngquist, JR., Timothy Youngquist
  • Publication number: 20160097247
    Abstract: A recovered fluid may be flowed through a portable fluid filtration apparatus for filtering the recovered fluid and forming a filtered fluid. The portable fluid filtration apparatus may have or include a fluid filtration platform in fluid communication with at least one self-cleaning filter component. The fluid filtration platform may have at least two segments where a first segment is configured to be attachable to a second segment. Each segment may include at least one inlet, at least one outlet, and at least one valve. In a non-limiting embodiment, the portable filtration apparatus may be in fluid communication with an oilfield fluid filtration system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: TIMOTHY MARCO, LARRY HUPPERT, ROBERT ARIMOND
  • Publication number: 20160097248
    Abstract: A subsea wellbore system is disclosed in which a return fluid flows from a wellbore to the surface via an annulus between a drill string and a casing and then between the drill string and a riser, wherein the system includes a device configured to prevent flow of the return fluid flowing through the annulus between the drill string and the riser, and a bypass line configured to divert the flow of the return fluid from the annulus between the drill string and the riser to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Derek Mathieson, Colin Bickersteth
  • Publication number: 20160097249
    Abstract: A pulser driver assembly of a measurement-while-drilling tool that includes an improved flow switch is disclosed. The flow switch uses multiple accelerometers of different types that measure acceleration changes in a system. The accelerometer data is then filtered and processed by an onboard microcontroller. The filtered data is then passed to a fuzzy logic voting algorithm which systematically and robustly characterizes the signal, and identifies the flow state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: REME, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Abraham Erdos, Kenneth Miller, Brad Munoz, Joshua Carter, James Mathieson
  • Publication number: 20160097250
    Abstract: A shear ram assembly for use in a BOP stack. The shear ram assembly includes a ram block disposed within the shear ram housing and having a forward end facing the bore, the ram block movable between an open position, in which the ram block is retracted away from the bore, and a closed position, in which the ram block is extended toward the bore. The blade has a forward surface, a rear surface, a lower shearing edge, and an upper edge, the blade attached to the forward face of the ram block by fasteners extending at an angle relative to an upper surface of the ram block through a portion of the ram block and into the rear surface of the blade, the rear surface of the blade angled so that it is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Julia Anne Bleck, Brian Scott Baker, Devasish Choudhury, Richard Lee Stringfellow
  • Publication number: 20160097251
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing at least one hub bore of a multi-bore fluid hub associated with a wellhead assembly includes a plug body having a plug bore opening on an outer mating surface. A plug bore extends from a first end of the plug body to the plug bore opening. The plug body is selectively insertable into a hub housing of the multi-bore fluid hub. An insert is in engagement with the outer mating surface and is moveable relative to the plug body between an unengaged position, and an engaged position where the insert seals across one of the hub bores. A stem member is coupled to the plug body and is moveable to selectively rotate the plug body within the multi-bore fluid hub so that the plug bore opening aligns with one of the hub bores and the insert aligns with another of the hub bores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Lloyd Ray Cheatham, Ben Calvin Holgate, Travis Kyle McEvoy, Christopher Michael Menard, Christopher Joseph Dibernardo
  • Publication number: 20160097252
    Abstract: A seal including a seal wall comprising a swelling polymer material having elastomeric properties so that the seal has a non-swollen state and an expanded state, the seal wall having a closed circumference that extends around a central longitudinal axis and that extends from a first end via an intermediate section to a second end along a length (L) in the direction of the central axis (A), wherein the first end of the seal sleeve wall is connected or connectable to the inner element and wherein the seal wall, apart from at and adjacent to the first end thereof, is freely radially expandable due to the fact that the second end and the intermediate section of the seal wall are not connected to any structural parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Sjoerd Resink
  • Publication number: 20160097253
    Abstract: A backup ring design for a packer sealing element features a folding shape where opposed legs are pushed together for extension in a radial direction toward the surrounding tubular to span the extrusion gap. The design can use a V-shape where the vertex is toward the mandrel and the legs are oriented toward the surrounding tubular. The legs in that instance can be thicker than the vertex thickness to aid in folding while providing enhanced strength at the surrounding tubular where shear forces apply as a result of seal compression against the surrounding tubular. The design features a single or multiple vertices that are similarly aligned or alternatingly oppositely aligned to create a zigzag shape in cross-section. Material selection can vary with the expected service conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Antonio C. Ruffo, Steve Rosenblatt
  • Publication number: 20160097254
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for creating a barrier across an annulus in a well bore. First and second morphable sleeves are arranged side by side on a tubular body and sealed thereto to. Adjacent ends of each sleeve meet at a valve housing having a valve arrangement with a first position in which fluid flows from the throughbore of the tubular body to the first and second sleeves and a second position which prevents the flow of fluid between the throughbore, the first chamber and the second chamber. At opposing ends of the sleeves rupturable barrier devices are positioned. The sleeves can be morphed together and by rupturing the barriers, each side of the barrier is active to pressure and collapse is prevented regardless of the pressure differential across the barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Peter Wood, William Luke McElligott
  • Publication number: 20160097255
    Abstract: A degradable seat arrangement consisting of a pusher; a cone having a tapered face; and a seal having a seal deformation face configured to contact the tapered face. A method for creating a seat in a borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: James Doane
  • Publication number: 20160097256
    Abstract: A system including a stem guide system, including a stem guide, and a sleeve coupled to the stem guide, wherein the sleeve is configured to rest within a valve stem groove of a valve stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Stephen Russell Allen, John David Williams
  • Publication number: 20160097257
    Abstract: A multi stage liner with cluster valves for completing and performing multiple fracture stimulations along a length of wellbore. Groups of cluster valves, with isolation between such groups of cluster valves, and a method of using same, are provided to achieve increased oil and gas flow to a wellbore in openhole or cased hole applications for oil and gas wells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: William JANI
  • Publication number: 20160097258
    Abstract: A subsurface safety valve and method for sealing an annulus within a tubular, including a valve housing having a first section having a hollow cylinder for receiving a piston, the hollow cylinder having a first portion, a second portion and a first circumferential ledge; a piston positioned within the hollow cylinder, the piston having a first end, a second end, a first radially extending circumferential land positioned therebetween, and a first reservoir for receiving a first fluid; a biasing element to assist in placing the valve in a sealed condition, the biasing element positioned between the first circumferential ledge of the hollow cylinder and the first radially extending circumferential land; and a flexible sealing member for selectively sealing the annular space when a hydraulic force is exerted thereupon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Marcel A. Grubert
  • Publication number: 20160097259
    Abstract: A method of completing a well involving remediating a condition of screen-out that has taken place along a zone of interest. The method includes forming a wellbore, and lining at least a lower portion of the wellbore with a string of production casing and placing a valve along the production casing, wherein the valve creates a removable barrier to fluid flow within the bore. The barrier is removed by moving the valve in the event of a screen-out. This overcomes the barrier to fluid flow, thereby exposing ports along the production casing to the subsurface formation at or below the valve. Additional pumping takes place to pump the slurry through the exposed ports, thereby remediating the condition of screen-out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Randy C. Tolman, Timothy I Morrow, Timothy G Benish
  • Publication number: 20160097260
    Abstract: A method of completing a well involving remediating a condition of screen-out that has taken place along a zone of interest. The method includes forming a wellbore, and lining at least a lower portion of the wellbore with a string of production casing and placing a valve along the production casing, wherein the valve creates a removable barrier to fluid flow within the bore. The barrier is removed by moving the valve in the event of a screen-out. This overcomes the barrier to fluid flow, thereby exposing ports along the production casing to the subsurface formation at or below the valve. Additional pumping takes place to pump the slurry through the exposed ports, thereby remediating the condition of screen-out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Randy C. Tolman, Timothy I Morrow, Timothy G Benish
  • Publication number: 20160097261
    Abstract: A tool for suspending in a well retrieves various metal debris from the well, and includes an elongated tool body with a plurality of magnets included in a plurality longitudinal ridges which are circumferentially spaced. In the method a plurality of magnets can be positioned within openings, recesses, or pockets in each ridge, and held in place by one or more retaining plates, the tool being connected to a drill string and lowered into a well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: Odfjell Well Services Norway AS
    Inventors: Simon Leiper, Kevin Robertson
  • Publication number: 20160097262
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid delivery tool for morphing a tubular downhole and a method of morphing a tubular downhole. The tool has spaced apart annular elastomer seal assemblies which operate by application of a piston against each elastomer to create a seal against the tubular. A first hydraulic fluid delivery line delivers fluid at a first pressure to operate the pistons. A second hydraulic fluid delivery line delivers fluid at a second pressure, lower than the first, to a location between the seals to morph the tubular and act on a second face of each piston to assist in maintaining the seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: David Glen Martin, Neil Thomson
  • Publication number: 20160097263
    Abstract: A pressure intensifier for morphing tubulars downhole. An elongate mandrel defines an inner bore, being co-axially located within an elongate hollow outer cylindrical body to form a co-axial annular bore therebetween. Pistons are mounted upon the mandrel with each piston having an annular fluid facing face extending across the annular bore, with fluid communication between the inner bore and the annular bore to act upon each face. Stops are located on an inner surface of the outer cylindrical body to limit travel of each piston. A morph fluid is located in the annular bore between an opposing face of a first piston and a first stop, with the first stop having delivery ports to deliver the morph fluid at a greater pressure than the pressure of fluid delivered through the inner bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventor: Neil Thomson
  • Publication number: 20160097264
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a perforating device includes a section having a window and a detonating cord disposed in a bore of the section. The apparatus may include a detonator configured to generate a high order detonation; and a clip connecting the detonator to the detonating cord. The clip may be formed as a ribbon having a base and a prong extending from opposing sides of the base. The base has an opening for receiving the detonator. The prongs have biased ends to secure the detonating cord against a face of the detonator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: OWEN OIL TOOLS LP
    Inventors: David E. Upchurch, Paul E. Noe, Benjamin O. Potter, Matthew C. Clay, Dan W. Pratt
  • Publication number: 20160097265
    Abstract: A two-piece well plunger is provided having an upper sleeve and a lower lance member that engages (e.g., unites) and disengages the upper member. The upper and lower member are sized for receipt within production tubing of a well and are configured to move upwardly in the production tubing when united and to fall separately when disengaged (e.g., separated). The upper sleeve is generally cylindrical and has an central bore. The lower lance member includes a dislodging rod that is sized to extend through central bore of the upper sleeve when the two pieces are united. The lance member and rod seal the central bore when the members are united. An upper end of the rod extends beyond a top end of the sleeve when the members are united and is utilized to disengage the members when the united plunger arrives in, a well head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: PCS FERGUSON, INC.
    Inventor: WEDITH BOB BISHOP
  • Publication number: 20160097266
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for preventing damage to a downhole pump impeller of a downhole pump such as a geothermal downhole pump, comprising the steps of setting a rotatable part of a downhole pump to a selected depth, monitoring the depth of the rotatable part, determining that the depth of the rotatable part has significantly changed, and taking a corrective action to return the depth of the rotatable part to said selected depth in order to prevent damage to an impeller that is liable to be caused by a change in depth of the rotatable part. The present invention is also directed to a downhole pump such as a geothermal downhole pump, comprising a line shaft, an impeller engaged with the line shaft for pressurizing fluid to be extracted from a well, and monitoring apparatus for monitoring the depth of a distal end of the line shaft in order to prevent damage to the impeller that is liable to be caused by a change in depth of the distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: Ormat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Nadav AMIR
  • Publication number: 20160097267
    Abstract: A method of deploying a multi-zone completion assembly in a wellbore is disclosed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the method includes: placing an outer assembly below a surface location, wherein the outer assembly includes an activation device; placing an inner assembly in the outer assembly, the inner assembly including a lower opening tool spaced from an upper opening tool; activating the lower opening tool using the activation device; and activating the upper opening tool independent of the lower opening tool using the activation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Jason A. Allen, Aaron C. Hammer, Robert S. O'Brien
  • Publication number: 20160097268
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for enhancing the extraction of hydrocarbons from an underground reservoir using a well is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a power source operable to supply periodic electrical power at a first frequency; at least one impulse generator unit operable to convert the periodic electrical power at the first frequency into periodic electrical power at a second frequency and to couple electromagnetic energy generated by the periodic electrical power at the second frequency into the reservoir, the second frequency being at least ten times higher than that of the first frequency; and a conducting cable being operatively coupled between the power source and the at least one impulse generator unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Michal M. Okoniewski, Jorgen S. Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20160097269
    Abstract: A frac plug system for use at the end of well drill string in a fractured underground formation, includes an elongated mandrel body, wherein the front portion of said elongated mandrel body includes a nose cone, the rear of said elongated mandrel body includes a mandrel head and the mid-portion of said elongated mandrel body includes a sealing assembly; a set of sensors positioned on said nose cone, said set of sensors being selected from a group including: temperature sensors, pressure sensors, pH sensors and fluid composition sensors; a battery operated microcontroller located within said mandrel body, said battery operated microcontroller constructed and arranged to periodically read the data output of said set of sensors and store said data from said set of sensors; a transmitter electrically connected to said battery operated microcontroller, said transmitter constructed and arranged to transmit said stored data from said set of sensors to a receiver when said receiver is in receiving range of said trans
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Dillon W. Kuehl, Charles M. Williams, Josiah J. Leverich
  • Publication number: 20160097270
    Abstract: A computerized control system performs controlled pressure drilling in a formation with a drilling system according to a plan. A setup of at least the plan, the formation, and the drilling system is configured in the control system, and the setup is integrated with the drilling system. Functioning of the set up can then be conducted using one of a plurality of control modes, including an operating mode and a simulating mode. The control system functions the setup according to the operating mode for operational interaction with the setup using the integration of the setup with the drilling system. The control system can switch from the operating mode to the simulating mode for simulated interaction with the setup. The control system simulates for at least a time period the functioning of the setup according to the simulating mode using the integration of the setup with the drilling system. Current operations continue as at least one simulated operation or event is projected in the future.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Ilia Pobedinski, Sanjit Roy, Ferhat Gumus, Koray Kinik, Iain Cook, Lev Ring, Guy Feasey
  • Publication number: 20160097271
    Abstract: A pressure testing unit for pressure testing equipment including a test cell having first and second side walls, a cell frame, a lid pivotally mounted on the first side wall, a first tie rod disposed through the cell frame, a second tie rod disposed through the cell frame, a first impact plate removably secured to proximal ends of the first and second side walls and proximal ends of the first and second tie rods, and a second impact plate removably secured to distal ends of the first and second side walls and distal ends of the first and second tie rods. The test cell may be lengthened by attaching a second test cell thereto. One of the impact plates may be removed from the test cell, and receptacles on the test cell may be connected to receptacles on the second test cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Gary Russell Garber, Kevin Michael Guidry, Dennis Penisson, Kirk Pepper
  • Publication number: 20160097272
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes a system. The system includes a current source and a ground terminal The ground terminal is electrically connected to the current source. The ground terminal is grounded at the surface of the Earth. The system further includes a reference conductor. The reference conductor is electrically connected to the current source, and the reference conductor is inserted into a reference wellbore. The system further includes a tubular. The tubular includes a tubular string electrical discontinuity, and the tubular is inserted into the reference wellbore. The tubular has a tubular bottom hole end, and the tubular is electrically conductive between the electrical discontinuity and the bottom hole end. The system further includes an electrical connection between the tubular and reference conductor between the tubular string electrical discontinuity and the tubular bottom hole end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Inventors: Clinton MOSS, Douglas RIDGWAY, Troy MARTIN