Patents Issued in May 12, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160130910
    Abstract: A downhole tool is responsive to passing objects and applied fluid pressure. A plugless valve in the tool is operable from an unobstructed condition to an obstructed condition unobstructing the tool's bore to an obstructed condition obstructing the tool's bore to the applied fluid pressure. An indexer counts the objects passing through the tool's bore and permits operation of the plugless valve from the unobstructed to the obstructed condition in response to the counted number. The applied fluid pressure in the bore obstructed by the plugless valve can then communicate outside the tool via at least one port. The plugless valve can have a movable insert that moves relative to a flapper. The indexer can use ratcheting dogs, collet, J-slot, electronic sensor, and other components to count the passing objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Dick S. Gonzalez, Cesar G. Garcia
  • Publication number: 20160130911
    Abstract: In one aspect an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes an assembly deployable in the wellbore that includes a first fluid flow path for supplying a first fluid from a surface location to a formation zone along the wellbore and a second fluid flow path for supplying a second fluid from a surface location to the formation zone and a flow control device that combines the first fluid and the second fluid before supplying the combined fluid to the zone and may controls the proportions of such fluid to the formation zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Jason A. Allen
  • Publication number: 20160130912
    Abstract: A production casing string including a plurality of propellant sleeves positioned on an exterior of the production casing string, and each propellant sleeve includes a firing mechanism and a firing sleeve for selectively covering and uncovering the firing mechanism. The casing string also includes an identifiable marker associated with each propellant sleeve and at least one selective bi-directional valve assembly associated with each propellant sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventor: Barry K. Holder
  • Publication number: 20160130913
    Abstract: A subsea production cooler module comprising: a core; a coiled tubing disposed around the core, wherein the coiled tubing comprises an inlet and an outlet; and a shroud at least partially encasing the core and the coiled tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Gregory John HATTON, Claud Eugene LACY, Howard Steven LITTELL, Andrew ONSTAD, John Lucas PEARSON, Scott Edward STOMIEROWSKI, George John ZABARAS
  • Publication number: 20160130914
    Abstract: An assembly configured to be disposed within a well at an intersection of a parent bore of the well and a lateral bore of the well is provided. The assembly includes a junction having a mainbore leg and a lateral leg, as well as a passage in the mainbore leg configured to receive a flowing fluid. A port in the mainbore leg is in fluid communication with the passage such that the flowing fluid in the passage creates a suction at the port to draw debris in the well through the port and into the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David Joe Steele
  • Publication number: 20160130915
    Abstract: A trigger mechanism for a ball activated device (100) comprises a seat sleeve (130) with seat defining members (132) forming a fluid tight seal with a ball (300) in an initial state and allowing the ball (300) to pass in a final state. An alternating member (125) can move radially in an aperture (124) through an inner sleeve (120) and abuts an outer surface on the seat sleeve (130) in the initial state, is received in a recess (134) on the seat sleeve (130) in an intermediate state, and is received in a groove (114) in the outer sleeve (110) in the final state. A protective sleeve (150) may extend axially from the seat sleeve (130) over a seat receiving area (115). The mechanism is suitable for cementing and fracturing as particles cannot penetrate to its moving parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Kristoffer BRÆKKE, Roger ANTONSEN
  • Publication number: 20160130916
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, and program product utilize a buffer defined relative to a wellbore trajectory to generate a work zone around a wellbore for use in connection with formation modeling. In some embodiments, for example, a closed curve such as a non-rectangular, polygonal work zone may be defined around a wellbore based upon a buffer that extends generally transverse to the trajectory of a length of a wellbore a predetermined distance. In addition, boundaries may be defined in a work zone to effectively split the work zone into multiple closed curves or polygons in response to user editing, e.g., to create one or more subsurface layers in the work zone. In such instances, points defining a subsurface layer may be shared by adjacent layers such that editing of such points will affect each of the layers sharing such points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Joan Abadie, Adrien Chassard, Mohammad Taghi Salehi, Shahzad Asif, Christopher Edward Morriss, Koji Ito
  • Publication number: 20160130917
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for estimating global rig state. The system comprises a model incorporating multiple variables related to rig state, at least one camera operably connected to at least one processor wherein said camera is capable of gathering visual data regarding at least one variable of rig state and said processor is capable of compiling rig state data, estimating global rig state, or both. The system further comprises multiple sensors for measuring variables related to global rig state wherein said sensors are operably connected to said processor. The method comprises sensing various aspects of the rig state, collecting visual data corresponding with said sensor data, compiling multiple sources of rig data, and estimating the overall rig state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: COVAR APPLIED TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Peter A. Torrione
  • Publication number: 20160130918
    Abstract: A jumper line system comprising: a first subsea device; a second subsea device; and a jumper line providing fluid communication between the first subsea device and the second subsea device, wherein the jumper line does not comprise a valley.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Gaurav BHATNAGAR, Gregory John HATTON
  • Publication number: 20160130919
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole pumping assembly for being introduced in a well inside a casing and submerged in well fluid, the downhole pumping assembly extending in a longitudinal direction and being adapted for connection with a wireline. The downhole pumping assembly comprises a pump section comprising a tubular pump housing providing a pump chamber, an inlet provided in the tubular pump housing, the inlet being in fluid communication with the pump chamber, a first valve which is a one-way valve arranged for opening and closing the inlet to allow fluid to flow into the chamber, a plunger slidably disposed in the pump chamber, a pump rod operably connected to the plunger and extending from the plunger through the tubular pump housing, an outlet provided in the tubular pump housing, the outlet being in fluid communication with the pump chamber, a second valve which is a one-way valve arranged for controlling a flow of fluid out of the chamber through the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventor: Ricardo Reves VASQUES
  • Publication number: 20160130920
    Abstract: An apparatus including a sealing device for sealing a wellbore, a first pump for pumping fluids from a lower wellbore section, a pump drive powered using wellbore gas, a gas inlet for supplying the pump drive with wellbore gas, and a gas outlet for exhausting wellbore gas to an upper wellbore section from the pump drive. The apparatus may further include a second pump for pumping fluids from the upper wellbore section into the lower wellbore section, a vent for venting wellbore gas to the upper wellbore section, and a switch for controlling the pump drive. A method for moving fluids in a wellbore including sealing the wellbore, supplying wellbore gas to a pump drive and driving a first pump with the pump drive. The method may further include driving a second pump with the pump drive and venting the wellbore gas to an upper wellbore section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: LIFTECK INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Guy William FAREBROTHER, Serge Gilbert BONNET, Rodney K. Ridley
  • Publication number: 20160130921
    Abstract: A pump seating nipple for retaining a downhole pump assembly in a fixed position within a production tubing string has a generally cylindrical body defining a nipple bore for receiving the downhole pump assembly. The pump seating nipple attaches to the production tubing string. At the bottom end of the body, the nipple bore is open to the bore of the production tubing string. An upper portion of the body surface engages a pump assembly seating cup. The body has a lower skirt which defines openings which allow gas flow from the nipple bore into the casing annulus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: GLOBAL OIL AND GAS SUPPLIES INC.
    Inventor: David GRONNING
  • Publication number: 20160130922
    Abstract: A centrifugal well fluid pump has a pump intake and a pump discharge conduit extending upward from the pump. A barrier between the motor and the pump intake seals to casing in a well. A bypass tube extends from below the barrier, alongside the pump and has an outlet at an upper end of the pump. A riser surrounds the pump discharge conduit, the riser having a riser inlet in fluid communication with the bypass tube outlet. Liquid portions of the well fluid flow upward through the riser to discharge from the riser outlet and flow down to the pump intake. Gaseous portions of the well fluid flow upward through the riser and continue flowing upward into the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Brown Lyle Wilson, Donn J. Brown
  • Publication number: 20160130923
    Abstract: An electric submersible pump (ESP) inverted shroud assembly is described. An ESP assembly includes an inverted shroud separating an ESP pump from a well casing, the ESP pump rotatably coupled to an ESP motor, the inverted shroud having an opening on an upstream terminal side, at least a portion of the ESP motor extending through the opening, the portion of the ESP motor extending through the opening exposed to working fluid, and the opening sealed to the working fluid. An ESP assembly includes an inverted shroud, and an ESP motor including a head, housing and base, the head of the ESP motor at least partially inside the inverted shroud, and the housing and base of the ESP motor at least partially outside the inverted shroud.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Wesley John Nowitzki, Joseph Stewart, Randy S. Roberts, Michael Edward Sterling
  • Publication number: 20160130924
    Abstract: Vessels including an enclosure having an outer perimeter and an interior space, a channel disposed in the interior space, a first port disposed on a surface of the first enclosure at or proximate to a first end of the channel, and a second port disposed on a surface of the first enclosure at or proximate to a second end of the channel, where the channel has a length greater than the shortest distance between the first port and the second port, and where the first port and the second port are in fluid communication with one another. In some cases, the length of the channel is greater than a length of the outer perimeter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Hau Pham, Rajesh Luharuka
  • Publication number: 20160130925
    Abstract: Systems and methods for oil recovery from oil shale are described. Systems and methods may include a method for in-situ conversion of oil shale. The method may include providing one or more magnetic probes within an oil shale formation; providing magnetic nanoparticles into the oils shale formation; and alternating the magnetic field of the one or more magnetic probes to heat the oil shale formation. A system for in-situ conversion of oil shale may include one or more magnetic probes within an oil shale formation and magnetic nanoparticles within the oils shale formation. A magnetic field may be applied by the one or more magnetic probes to the magnetic nanoparticles to heat the oil shale formation. A composition for a fracture fluid may include a fracturing fluid and magnetic nanoparticles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Pubudu H. Gamage, Ali Alwattari, Philip D. Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20160130926
    Abstract: A method for improving and maintaining well productivity is disclosed. The method comprises placing acoustic devices within wells of a geological formation, measuring parameters for initial pulsed acoustic impact, and continuing to measure parameters in order to change impact parameters during production to optimize the acoustic effect. The method may be used to restore, maintain, or increase the productivity of an entire geological formation (oil or gas), and to reduce the water cut in the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Yevgeny B. LEVITOV, Ernest ORENTLIKHERMAN, Isaak ORENTLIKHERMAN
  • Publication number: 20160130927
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus and products for separating oil and mud filtrate down hole and production of each to the surface via separate tubing, that includes custom engineered drill pipe for which two types of openings called ports have been cut or drilled: production ports and isolation ports. The production port produces formation fluid (normally hydrocarbons) from a perforation. In one non-limiting embodiment, a tube is welded to the inside of the casing at each production port to transmit the formation fluid to the top of the drill pipe section where it is attached to a custom engineered casing collar (described below) designed to allow flow to the next drill pipe section of the device. The isolation port produces mud filtrate from the adjacent borehole wall exterior to the casing, and these isolation ports are arranged in a pattern around each production port to keep mud filtrate in the invaded zone from reaching the production port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: MARGARET COWSAR WAID, CHARLES CARTER WAID
  • Publication number: 20160130928
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method of for measuring the characteristics and volume of drill cuttings. The system comprises at least one camera operably connected to a processor for recording characteristics of drill cutting particles wherein said processor is configured to perform particle detection, extract features of said particles, or both. The processor is typically configured to initiate, interrupt or inhibit an automated activity based on the particle characteristics. The method comprises acquiring visual data from at least one camera, performing particle detection using said data, extracting feature data of any detected particles, alerting an operator and/or initiating, interrupting, or inhibiting automated activity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: CoVar Applied Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter A. Torrione
  • Publication number: 20160130929
    Abstract: A nonpenetrated barrier system includes: one or more elements and a component having properties configured to reliably respond to impetus downhole of the one or more elements of the barrier system in a way that is measurable uphole of the one or more of the one or more elements of the barrier system. The system further includes one or more sensors positioned in operable communication with the component uphole of the one or more elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Philip Matthew Gregurek, Antonio C. Ruffo, Earl G. McDonald
  • Publication number: 20160130930
    Abstract: The present disclosure introduces methods and apparatus for acquiring a borehole image corresponding to a sidewall surface of a borehole that penetrates a subterranean formation, wherein the subterranean formation comprises structural elements and a varying geophysical characteristic. The borehole image comprises structure corresponding to the structural elements, texture corresponding to the varying geophysical characteristic, and coverage gaps (605) in which the structure and texture are missing. Trends corresponding to the structure are extracted from the borehole image. Missing structure within the gaps (605) is reconstructed based on the extracted trends. Missing texture within the gaps is simulated based on the borehole image and the reconstructed structure. A fullbore image is constructed based on the borehole image, the reconstructed structure within the gaps, and the simulated texture within the gaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Andriy Gelman, Tuanfeng Zhang, Neil F. Hurley
  • Publication number: 20160130931
    Abstract: Systems and methods for evaluating cement in the annulus of a wellbore are provided. In one embodiment, the cement may be evaluated using a casing arrival measurement sensor that measures casing arrival signals resulting from firing a signal from a cement bond logging acoustic source. Signals other than casing arrival signals may be attenuated using grooves between the transmitter and receiver in the drill collar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Yucun Lou, Jahir Pabon
  • Publication number: 20160130932
    Abstract: An assembly for use in subsurface drilling includes a drill collar section having a bore extending longitudinally through an inner surface of the drill collar section. A pocket is formed in a section of the inner surface of the drill collar section. A holster is located in the pocket and a sleeve is snuggly fitted inside the bore in order to secure the holster inside the pocket. The sleeve may be sealed to the drill collar section for example by seals such as O-rings such that the holster is sealed from the bore. O-rings may be located on one or both of the inside of the inner surface of the collar or on the outside of the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: EVOLUTION ENGINEERING INC.
    Inventors: Aaron W. LOGAN, David A. SWITZER
  • Publication number: 20160130933
    Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of computational modeling for tracking ball scalers in a wellbore is disclosed. The method may include, for a time step, calculating a number of ball sealers to inject into a wellbore, injecting the ball sealers, determining a length of the wellbore occupied by a fluid, and computing a spacing between each ball sealer in the length of the wellbore occupied by the fluid. The method may include calculating a first position of a ball sealer, determining a velocity the ball sealer, and computing a second position of the ball sealer. The method may include recording a number of active ball sealers and open perforations in the wellbore, calculating a ball sealer skin per division, and determining a fluid flow rate. The method may include selecting parameters for a stimulation operation in the wellbore based on the fluid flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Srinath Madasu, Avi Lin
  • Publication number: 20160130934
    Abstract: The invention relates to the area of borehole acoustics, in particular, to monitoring a logging tool position in a borehole, namely detection and estimation of a borehole logging tool eccentricity based on the measurement and analysis of mixed surface waves waveforms. The method is characterized by the steps of registering acoustic signals generated by passage of acoustic waves in the borehole while logging and detecting the misalignment of the logging tool to the axis of the borehole by the presence of mixed surface waves. A system for monitoring a looging tool position in a borehole comprising means for registering acoustic signals generated by passage of acoustic waves while logging and data processing means for detecting mixed surface waves propagating along the borehole wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Timur Vyacheslavovich Zharnikov, Masafumi Fukuhara, Igor Vitalievich Borodin, Dimitri Vladilenovich Pissarenko
  • Publication number: 20160130935
    Abstract: A logging tool for use downhole includes sensor modules that monitor fluid flow in a wellbore. The sensor modules are disposed on flexible arms that project radially outward from the logging tool, so that the modules are located at discrete radial positions in the wellbore. The sensor modules include a flow sensor, an optical sensor, and a fluid conductivity sensor. The rate and type of fluid flowing in the wellbore can be estimated due to employing the different sensor types. A location sensor estimates the radial location of the modules so that a flow profile of the flowing fluid can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Muhammad A. Manzar, Hayward Atkinson, Jeffrey C. Neely
  • Publication number: 20160130936
    Abstract: An apparatus for interrogating a subsurface material includes a carrier configured to be conveyed through a borehole penetrating the earth, an array of acoustic transducers disposed on the carrier and configured to be compensated for ambient pressure in the borehole, and electronics coupled to the array and configured to operate the array to interrogate the subsurface material. Each acoustic transducer in the array includes a substrate, a bottom electrode disposed on the substrate, a top electrode disposed above the bottom electrode, an insulation layer disposed between the bottom electrode and the top electrode and defining a cavity into which the top electrode may deflect, and a pressure compensating fluid disposed in the cavity and in pressure communication with ambient pressure of the array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Ehsan Khajeh, Valiallah Zomorrodian
  • Publication number: 20160130937
    Abstract: This invention comprises systems, methods and apparatus for mud pulse telemetry involving sending benchmark pulses with known characteristics (such as amplitude or duration) from the surface to the BHA, measuring those characteristics at the BHA, using those measurements to predict the likely attenuation of downhole-to-surface mud pulse transmissions, and adjusting those transmissions to compensate for high attenuation or to obtain energy savings (or transmission rate increases) during low-attenuation conditions. Further refinements on these systems and methods, particularly concerning the use of signal-to-noise ratio measurements at the surface to more efficiently predict attenuation, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: EVOLUTION ENGINEERING INC.
    Inventors: Aaron W. LOGAN, Jili LIU, David A. SWITZER
  • Publication number: 20160130938
    Abstract: A bottom hole assembly is configured with a drill bit section connected to a pulse generation section. The pulse generation section includes a relatively long external housing, the particular housing length being selected for the particular drilling location. The long external housing is positioned closely adjacent to the borehole sidewalls to thereby create a high speed flow course between the external walls of the housing and the borehole sidewalls. The long external housing includes a valve cartridge assembly and optionally a shock sub decoupler. While in operation, the valve cartridge assembly continuously cycles and uses downhole pressure to thereby generate seismic signal pulses that propagate to geophones or other similar sensors on the surface. The amount of bypass allowed through the valve assembly is selectable in combination with the long external housing length and width to achieve the desired pulse characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: TEMPRESS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Jack J. Koll
  • Publication number: 20160130939
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing lost circulation materials (“LCMs”) for use in a formation is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise a LCM cell that contains at least one formation simulation component. A pressurized tank may be in fluid communication with the LCM cell, and may force a sample LCM slurry into the LCM cell. An LCM receiver may also be in fluid communication with the LCM cell, and may receive the LCM slurry that flows through the LCM cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Robert J. Murphy, Dale E. Jamison, Matthew L. Miller
  • Publication number: 20160130940
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure can include systems and methods for formation fluid sampling. In one embodiment, a method can include monitoring a relationship between a first characteristic of a formation fluid extracted from a formation and a second characteristic of the formation fluid extracted from the formation, determining, based at least in part on the monitoring, that a linear trend is exhibited by the relationship between the first characteristic of the formation fluid extracted from the formation and the second characteristic of the formation fluid extracted from the formation, and determining a reservoir fluid breakthrough based at least in part on the identification of the linear trend, wherein the reservoir fluid breakthrough is indicative of virgin reservoir fluid entering a sampling tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Kai Hsu, Adriaan Gisolf, Youxiang Zuo, Yong Chang, Beatriz E. Barbosa
  • Publication number: 20160130941
    Abstract: A cutting head for hard rock mining applications is disclosed. The cutting head may have a base member. The base member may have a rotational axis and may include a center bore extending along the rotational axis. The cutting head may also have a drive bushing disposed within the center bore. The drive bushing may be configured to transmit torque from a driving device to the base member. The cutting may further have a plurality of annular tool supports. Each of the plurality of annular tool supports may be concentrically disposed about the rotational axis in a releasable manner. In addition, the cutting head may have a plurality of cutting bit carriers attached to each of the plurality of annular tool supports. Each of the plurality of cutting bit carriers may be configured to rotatably support a cutting bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim RASCHKA, Stefan BERGER, Jan ROHWER, Oliver KORTMANN
  • Publication number: 20160130942
    Abstract: A device and method for sinking a shaft during a sinking cycle, in which a support unit is moved once and a boring unit is moved at least twice by means of support cylinders and displacement cylinders. Due to such configuration, an efficient sinking operation is obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventor: Werner Burger
  • Publication number: 20160130943
    Abstract: A cable bolt comprising a plurality of flexible steel filaments formed around a central member, the cable bolt having spaced bulbous portions along the length of the bolt each bulbous portion defining a cavity containing a segmented ring that surrounds the central member to engage the filaments of the bulbous portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Jeremy Ross Arnot, Kenneth Sargood
  • Publication number: 20160130944
    Abstract: An axial piston machine (1) is shown, comprising: a shaft (2) having an axis (3) of rotation, a cylinder drum (4) connected to said shaft (2) and having at least a cylinder (5) parallel to said axis (3) of rotation, a piston (6) movable in said cylinder (5), a swash plate (13), a slide shoe (11) pivotally mounted to said piston (6), and holding means holding said slide shoe (11) against said swash plate (13), said holding means having a pressure plate (14) and a number of coil springs (15) arranged between said cylinder drum (4) and said pressure plate (14). The object is to have a reliable operation of said machine with a simple construction. To this end each coil spring (15) is at least at one end fixed by a protrusion (20) extending into said coil spring (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Frank Holm Iversen, Stig Kildegaard Andersen
  • Publication number: 20160130945
    Abstract: A sliding block for a scotch yoke reciprocating piston engine having a base body with a receiving opening for cooperating with a crankpin of a crankshaft and side surfaces, which are oriented toward slide ways of a scotch yoke during operation, with a supply of pressurized lubricant from the receiving opening for the crankpin to the side surfaces being provided during operation, characterized in that the base body is provided with sliding plates in the region of the side surfaces oriented toward the slide ways of the scotch yoke, characterized in that the sliding plates are supported in floating fashion relative to the base body and between the sliding plates and the side surfaces, there is a gap, which is at least partially filled with lubricant during operation of the scotch yoke reciprocating piston engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventor: Bertwin GEIST
  • Publication number: 20160130946
    Abstract: A variable vane having an airfoil, an inner trunnion shaft and an outer trunnion shaft, with the outer trunnion shaft having a threaded hole and a groove extending around a circumference of the outer trunnion shaft is repaired by removing a portion of the outer trunnion shaft leaving a shaft stub. A repair detail is prepared having an outer peripheral shaft portion with a nominal outer diameter. The repair detail further has a pilot portion extending forwardly and having a smaller outer diameter than an outer diameter of the nominal outer diameter. The shaft stub has a remaining bore portion, which is a portion of the threaded hole. The pilot portion is sized to be received within the remaining bore portion. The pilot is inserted into the remaining bore portion. The repair detail is welded to the shaft stub. A repaired variable vane is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: William M. Rose, Stephen P. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20160130947
    Abstract: A connection arrangement comprising a shaft having an axial through hole, a tie rod located inside the axial through hole, an impeller comprising a solid hub, a plurality of blades, and an integral stub protruding axially from the solid hub; at an end of the tie rod there is an integral body having a shape radially protruding from the tie rod; the stub has a cavity for receiving the body and an axial hole for inserting the body into the cavity; the stub axial hole has a shape corresponding to the shape of the body; the cavity is so sized and shaped as to allow rotation of the body inside the cavity and trapping of the body in the cavity once rotated; the shaft and the impeller are coupled together by a coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Gabriele MARIOTTI, Enrica Caterina BENEDETTO, Alberto SCOTTI DEL GRECO, Marco MENCAGLI
  • Publication number: 20160130948
    Abstract: A rotor for a turbine has a plurality of rotor components lined up in the axial direction and connected by a connecting rod, wherein a groove which extends in the circumferential direction and is open in the axial direction is disposed on one of the rotor components, wherein a coupling element running around the connecting rod in order to support the connecting rod is disposed in the groove. The rotor is adapted to enable particularly stable support of the connecting rod in order to prevent vibrations. The coupling element is disposed on a retaining element connected to the connecting rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Karin Costamagna, Sascha Dungs, Harald Hoell, Kevin Kampka, Karsten Kolk, Ulf Laudage, Peter Schröder, Vyacheslav Veitsman
  • Publication number: 20160130949
    Abstract: A turbine module according to an example of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a fan drive rotor having a plurality of blade rows each including a number of blades. A majority of the blade rows are capable of rotating at a rotational speed, so that when measuring the rotational speed in revolutions per minute: (number of blades×the rotational speed)/60?about 5500 Hz.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Bruce L. Morin, Detlef Korte
  • Publication number: 20160130950
    Abstract: A component according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, an airfoil that includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall joined together at a leading edge and a trailing edge and extending from a base to a tip. A plenum is defined inside the airfoil. A first cooling cavity merges into the plenum and a second cooling cavity merges into the plenum. A rib extends from at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall at least partially into the plenum to separate the first cooling cavity from the second cooling cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: San QUACH, Tracy A. PROPHETER-HINCKLEY, Matthew A. DEVORE
  • Publication number: 20160130951
    Abstract: The invention concerns a turbine blade for a gas turbine having a platform part and an aerofoil part. The platform part includes a platform surface arranged to be attached to a corresponding aerofoil surface of the aerofoil part. The turbine blade further includes a cooling duct for cooling the platform and aerofoil surfaces, the cooling duct having at least one cavity in the platform surface and at least one cavity in the corresponding aerofoil surface, and the platform and aerofoil surface cavities are aligned such that when the platform surface and the aerofoil surface are touching, the cooling duct remains open. This provides a reliable cooling of both the platform and aerofoil surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: ALSTOM TECHNOLOGY LTD.
    Inventors: Marc HENZE, Joerg KRÜCKELS, Laura BOGDANIC
  • Publication number: 20160130952
    Abstract: A turbine engine component (100) comprises a fiber structure (125, 126) forming at least a portion of an airfoil (102). A matrix (128) embeds the fiber structure. A carbon nanotube filler (130) is in the matrix.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Sreenivasa R. Voleti, Christopher M. Quinn
  • Publication number: 20160130953
    Abstract: The invention concerns a turbine blade comprising a surface, a recess within the surface, and a damping inlay within the recess. The damping inlay comprises a chamber with a damping material, for example particles. The damping inlay should substantially maintain the aerodynamic profile of the blade to enable normal operation. A further embodiment of the invention describes the method of manufacture of a turbine blade with a damping inlay. The method comprises the steps of manufacturing a turbine blade having a surface and a recess in the surface, and providing one or more damping inlays within the recess such that the damping inlay substantially maintains the aerodynamic profile of the blade, the damping inlay comprising a chamber and a damping material disposed within the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: ALSTOM TECHNOLOGY LTD
    Inventors: Herbert BRANDL, Arrigo BERETTA-MÜLLER
  • Publication number: 20160130954
    Abstract: The invention provides a Ni—Fe-based alloy which is preferable for a welding of a joint between different materials such as a steel material and a Ni-based alloy, and a rotor for a steam turbine which is manufactured by using the same. The invention employs a Ni—Fe-based alloy including Cr: 14 to 18%, Al: 1.0 to 2.5%, Mo+W: 2.5 to 5.0%, C: 0.01 to 0.10%, B: 0.001 to 0.03%, and Fe: 15 to 20%, in mass, in which the remaining portion is constructed by an unavoidable impurity and Ni, as a welding metal. As a result, it is possible to provide a rotor for a steam turbine which can hold down a reduction of a ductility and a toughness generated in the case of welding the different materials, and is excellent in a strength and the ductility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Jun SATO, Shinya IMANO, Hiroyuki DOI
  • Publication number: 20160130955
    Abstract: Compressor blades constructed of composite materials are disclosed. Some example compressor blades may include a composite blade panel including an airfoil having a span extending radially outward with respect to an axis of rotation and/or a blade attachment feature radially inward from the airfoil with respect to the axis of rotation. The blade attachment feature may be circumferentially oriented with respect to the axis of rotation. The blade attachment feature may be arranged to releasably engage a generally circumferentially oriented spool attachment feature. The spool attachment feature may be generally shaped as a circumferential dovetail slot configured to slidably receive the blade attachment feature therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Joseph Nicholas KRAY, Gregory Carl GEMEINHARDT, Prakash Kashiram JADHAV, Douglas Edward KLEI, Phani NANDULA, Suresh SUBRAMANIAN
  • Publication number: 20160130956
    Abstract: A turbomachine assembly is shown, including a rotor and a ring of blades mounted on the rotor. Each blade includes an airfoil portion and a root portion inserted in a circumferential blade-retaining groove of the rotor. The blade-retaining groove includes an enlarged groove portion. The blades in the enlarged groove portion are rotatable around a respective, generally radial axis, to take a position of minimum tangential dimension. At least one removable insert is arranged along the enlarged groove portion, between the root portions of the blades located in the enlarged groove portion and a side wall of the blade-retaining groove, to force and lock the blades in a final assembled arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Applicant: NUOVO PIGNONE SRL
    Inventors: Lorenzo COSI, Damaso CHECCACCI
  • Publication number: 20160130957
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a disk, a coupling member and a set of blades. The coupling member has a first surface and a second surface, and defines a set of openings between the first surface and the second surface. The first surface is configured to be coupled to the outer surface of the disk. A portion of each blade from the set of blades is disposed within an opening from the set of openings when the first surface of the coupling member is coupled to the outer surface of the disk such that the blade is coupled to the disk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: Ted J. Freeman, Todd Z. Engel
  • Publication number: 20160130958
    Abstract: A structural guide vane is disclosed. The structural guide vane may include a first root, a second root positioned radially outward from the first root and a truss extending between the first root and second root. The truss may be made of a first material. The guide vane may further include an overmold made of a second material that surrounds the truss to form an airfoil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventors: William Richard Ganoe, Thomas B. Hyatt
  • Publication number: 20160130959
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine comprising in axial flow series: a fan having a fan rotor; a series passages defined between adjacent outlet guide vanes for guiding flow from the fan; and a bifurcation. The gas turbine engine further comprises a substantially annular fluid passageway extending from the fan to the bifurcation, the outlet guide vanes being positioned within the passageway. The passageway includes a profiled region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Publication date: May 12, 2016
    Inventor: Stephane Michel Marcel BARALON