Patents Issued in October 20, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160305199
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brake, shear and cable management system and method for effectively braking and cutting cable from a rotatable drum, such as drilling line, boring line, electrical line, fiber optic line or the like. The brake, shear and cable management system includes a cable management assembly, a cable brake assembly and a cable cutting assembly used in conjunction to manage, retain and sever a spent portion of cable upon the drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Frank Fetters, III, Mark Dunbar
  • Publication number: 20160305200
    Abstract: A tool for use in suspending operation of an oil or gas well driven by an artificial lift with a polished rod connected to a sucker rod in a tubing string includes a body having a lower narrow portion dimensioned to fit within the interior cavity of a tubing string inlet or an upper extension thereof; an upper wide diameter portion defining a substantially horizontal landing surface dimensioned to rest upon the top edge of the tubing string inlet or the upper extension thereof; one or more sucker rod-engaging structures; and one or more longitudinal slots extending through the lower narrow portion and the upper wide diameter portion to allow passage of fluid or gas through the tool when the tool is supported on the top edge of the tubing string inlet or the upper extension thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: 1904296 ALBERTA LTD.
    Inventors: Kenneth Nicholas GORDEY, Leslie Joan KOHNEN, Dennis Francis RANKS, Jeffery Errol DICKIE, William G. GROVES
  • Publication number: 20160305201
    Abstract: Present embodiments are directed to a catwalk system that includes a base, a plurality of columns extending from the base, where each of the plurality of columns is rigid in an erected position, and a carriage and trough assembly configured to translate along the plurality of columns to lift a tubular element from a lowered position to a raised position in a substantially horizontal orientation, where the plurality of columns is configured to remain stationary as the carriage and trough assembly is translated from the lowered position to the raised position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Ryan Thomas Bowley, Leon Keith Jantzen, Brent James-William Coombe
  • Publication number: 20160305202
    Abstract: A rotary slip bowl includes a tubular body having a central bore with an internal surface. The internal surface includes a tapered profile extending from a top surface to a generally straight profile. The rotary slip bowl also includes one or more umbilical grooves in the internal surface, wherein each umbilical groove is dimensioned to partially house an umbilical line. A rotary slip system includes the rotary slip bowl and a rotary slip set configured to be partially housed within the central bore. The rotary slip set includes two or more slip segments separated by spaces. One of the spaces is aligned with each umbilical groove of the rotary slip bowl. A handle is affixed to an upper end of a slip segment with the handle positioned adjacent to one of the spaces. The rotary slip system may further include a carrier for transporting the rotary slip bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Bryan Duhon
  • Publication number: 20160305203
    Abstract: A tubular handling system comprising a catwalk having a trough, a tailing member coupled to the trough, and a catcher coupled to the tailing member. The catcher is moveable relative to the tailing member. The system further includes a support structure coupled to the tailing member at one end and coupled to the trough at an opposite end. The support structure is configured to move the tailing member relative to the trough to guide a tubular from a substantially horizontal or slightly angled position to a substantially vertical position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Gerardo GUERRA, Aaron BRYANT
  • Publication number: 20160305204
    Abstract: A system and method for building and handling oilfield tubular stands while drilling operations are simultaneously and independently occurring with one drilling deck, one derrick, and one rotary system. An offline guided path horizontal to vertical arm lifts and moves in the same plane tubulars stored horizontally on the catwalk and positions the tubulars vertically directly into a preparation hole for assembling and disassembling tubular stands while online drilling operations are simultaneously being conducted. A stand arm lifts and lowers the tubulars into and out of the adjustable preparation hole, and transports the tubulars for storage to an auxiliary tubular racking station in the upper part of the derrick. A bridge racker crane moves tubular stands from the auxiliary tubular racking station to the top drive or another tubular racking station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicants: Atwood Oceanics, Inc., Friede Goldman United, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Alan Childers, Harvey Mark Rich, Barry M. Smith, Brendan William Larkin
  • Publication number: 20160305205
    Abstract: A natural gas hydrate drilling simulation device, includes a hydrate rock core simulation system, a drilling system, a drilling fluid injection system and a drilling fluid treatment system. The hydrate rock core simulation system includes a hydrate formation simulation wellbore, an artificial rock core, a water bath jacket and low temperature water bath. The drilling system includes a bracket, a high pressure rotary connecting device, a hydraulic device and a drilling device. The drilling fluid injection system includes a mud tank, a drilling fluid flowmeter, mud pumps and an overflow valve. The drilling fluid treatment system includes a high pressure sand remover, a back pressure and overflow control system, a gas-liquid separator, a dyer, a gas flowmeter, a liquid flowmeter and a mud treatment tank. This natural gas hydrate drilling simulation device performs simulation experiments under a variety of downhole working condition environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: GUANGZHOU INSTITUTE OF ENERGY CONVERSION, CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
    Inventors: Xiaosen Li, Yu Zhang, Yi Wang, Gang Li, Zhaoyang Chen, Ningsheng Huang
  • Publication number: 20160305206
    Abstract: A liner hanger and packer are set at different times in a single trip without intervention. The running tool has a ball seat that accepts a ball for pressuring; up which results in movement of a mandrel with a magnet mounted to it past a valve triggered by the magnetic field. Potential energy is released to set the liner hanger. Further mandrel movement then releases the running tool once the liner is supported by the hanger. After a cement job that starts with confirmation of release of the running tool, the same magnet is moved past another valve adjacent the liner top packer. Another valve is triggered open to release potential energy and move parts that set the packer. The running tool is removed from the liner and brought to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Mario Moreno, James M. Fraser, Sidney K. Smith, JR., Abbie J. Palmieri, Daniel C. Ewing, Matthew J. Kruger, Eric Halfman, Jarandon J. Adams
  • Publication number: 20160305207
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole-tool stop device (1) and a method of using the same, the stop device (1) comprising a first collar (4) attached to an elongated body (9), characterized by the stop device (1) including a second collar (6) attached to the elongated body (9), and the second collar (6) being displaceably attached to the elongated body (9), and the first collar (4) and the second collar (6) being placed a distance (A1) apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Steffen EVERTSEN
  • Publication number: 20160305208
    Abstract: A method includes deploying an assembly in a contracted state on a tool into a well. The assembly includes segments that are adapted to be radially contracted in the contracted state. The method further includes expanding the assembly downhole in the well using the tool to transition the assembly between the contracted state and an expanded state. Expanding the assembly includes using linkages to guide the segments during the expansion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Gregoire Jacob
  • Publication number: 20160305209
    Abstract: A wellbore isolation device comprising: a substance; and a pH maintainer, wherein the pH maintainer maintains the pH of a wellbore fluid surrounding the isolation device at a desired pH or range of pH values for a desired period of time, and wherein the substance is capable of decomposing at the desired pH or range of pH values. A method of removing the wellbore isolation device comprises: placing the isolation device into the wellbore; and causing or allowing at least a portion of the substance to decompose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Michael L. FRIPP, Zachary W. WALTON, Zachary R. MURPHREE
  • Publication number: 20160305210
    Abstract: An apparatus can include a well treatment system that supplies a treatment fluid, a conveyance device and a well tool conveyed by the conveyance device. The well tool can include a perforator configured to form at least one hole in the wellbore tubular and a restrictor projecting from an outer surface of the well tool and adjacent to the perforator. A gap may separate the restrictor and the wellbore tubular. The well tool may also include a flow space that provides fluid communication between a location uphole of the restrictor and a location downhole of the restrictor. The flow space is sized to be restricted by particles in the treatment fluid. The restrictor at least restricts fluid flow through an annulus between the restrictor and the wellbore tubular, and the well tool diverts a substantial amount of the treatment fluid through an at least one hole formed by the perforator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Juan C. Flores, Luis A. Castro, SR., Andre J. Porter
  • Publication number: 20160305211
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a blowout preventer housing including a bore extending therethrough and a cavity intersecting the bore. The apparatus further includes grooves in the outer profile of the blowout preventer housing, the grooves being on opposite sides of the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Charles Gibbs, Steven F. Shimonek
  • Publication number: 20160305212
    Abstract: The present invention is a new and improved bladder for use with a piston accumulator apparatus, system and method of using same that provides a dispersion tube in the bladder to allow fluid to be communicated under a vacuum from the bladder to the accumulator seawater chamber and back again.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Tom Frey, Doug Compton, Nathan Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20160305213
    Abstract: A tool insert is removable from a fluid passage in a drill tool body by pressurizing fluid in a removal volume defined between the tool insert and the drill tool body, to by exerting a net fluid pressure bias on the tool insert in a removal direction along the fluid passage. The tool insert can be an annulus sealing assembly mounted in a rotating control device (RCD), with the removal volume being defined radially between a body of the RCD and a bearing assembly of the annulus sealing assembly. A common hydraulic liquid may be used for lubricating the bearing assembly and for hydraulically actuated removal of the annulus sealing assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Craig William Godfrey, Owen Ransom Clark, Derrick W. Lewis
  • Publication number: 20160305214
    Abstract: In one aspect, an isolation system is disclosed that in one embodiment contains a lower wet connect portion; a central production tubing; an isolation device associated with the central production tubing, and at least one control line, wherein the at least one control line is associated with the lower wet connect portion and is disposed through an inside diameter of the isolation device. In another aspect, a method for isolating a lower completion is disclosed that includes conveying an isolation assembly to the lower completion, the isolation assembly including a lower wet connect portion, at least one control line, a central production tubing, and an isolation device, and routing the at least one control line through an inside diameter of the isolation device. In another aspect, a completion system is disclosed that in one embodiment contains a lower completion system and an isolation system associated with the lower completion system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: David S. Bishop, John E. Britt, Kim Tijerina, Kirby Glen Schrader, Conner S. George, Marc N. Samuelson, Kelly D. Ireland, Rockni Van Clief, Christian F. Bayne, David A. Bilberry
  • Publication number: 20160305215
    Abstract: A compact and simplified frac plug apparatus is provided with improved drillability. The frac plug includes an annular wedge, a sealing ring, and an annular slip. An adapter kit apparatus is provided for connecting the plug assembly to a setting tool. Methods of operation for setting the plug apparatus in a well are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Michael J. Harris, Kenneth J. Anton
  • Publication number: 20160305216
    Abstract: A surface well choke system has a flow chamber and a fluid switch. The flow chamber has a first flow chamber inlet with more resistance to flow to an outlet than a second flow chamber inlet has to flow to the outlet. The fluid switch has a first flow path from a fluid switch inlet to the first flow chamber inlet, a second flow path from the fluid switch inlet to the second flow chamber inlet, and a movable flow deflector upstream of the first and second flow paths. The movable flow deflector is actuable to deflect flow from the fluid switch inlet to the first flow path or the second flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Christopher Michael McMillan, Gregory Thomas Werkheiser
  • Publication number: 20160305217
    Abstract: A technique provides a simplified and cost-effective approach for deployment and operation of completion systems. The construction of the overall completion system and the deployment methodology provide an efficient approach for placement and operation of completion systems in a variety of wellbores. In many applications, the system and methodology may be used for sand control applications in which the completion equipment comprises sand control features, such as sand screens deployed along well zones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Dinesh Patel
  • Publication number: 20160305218
    Abstract: The present application teaches fire-resistant structures and methods for wellhead outlets, and methods of using same. In one embodiment, the fire-resistant structure includes a plurality of spacing assemblies (32a-f) that space a plurality of fire-resistant panels (42, 44, 46, 48, 49, 50, 53, 55) away from the exterior surface of a wellhead outlet (1), such that a space or volume is created between the fire-resistant panels (42, 44, 46, 48, 49, 50, 53, 55) and the exterior surface of the wellhead outlet (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: George Frank Denardo, Jr., Brian Dennis Moyer, Robert D. Cook, Jr., Jonathan Allen Hartman
  • Publication number: 20160305219
    Abstract: A one trip method of cleaning a portion of the borehole and then setting a tool such as a packer or a bridge plug locates the cleanup tools above the plug with a ported sub to allow circulation of loosened debris. The debris is directed uphole from above the plug and does not have to pass around the sealing element of the plug or through bypass ports in the plug body. The plug is then positioned in the cleaned portion and set. The cleaning tools are released from the set plug and brought to the surface. These tools could be used to clean the portion of the borehole where the tool is set or clean the entire section above the tool on the trip out of the borehole. Cleaning tools can be filter, scrapers both fixed and movable, magnets, brushes and associated tools that centralize the assembly for more effective operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: James L. Holloway, Samuel K. Kruger, Christopher R. Matthews-Ewald
  • Publication number: 20160305220
    Abstract: A deformable cleaning element is encased within soluble packaging to maintain deformation. The deformed cleaning element is launched into the bore of a drill pipe/conduit or tubular. Contact with fluids within the bore dissolves the soluble packaging allowing the cleaning element to expand to its original shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: CORETRAX TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: John Fraser, Cherish Bodman, Jason Fong
  • Publication number: 20160305221
    Abstract: The present invention relates to drilling lateral wells or sidetrack wells from a primary wellbore to enhance the efficiency and productivity of oil and gas wells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: David G. HEARN, Lamar L. GANTT, Dan E. VENHAUS, John G. ELLER
  • Publication number: 20160305222
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed that may include providing a wellhead gas burner to burn wellhead gas produced from a wellhead to heat water and/or other chemicals used in hydrocarbon production and/or well completion processes, including, but not limited to hydraulic fracturing (fracking). The wellhead gas burner may include a pressure regulator and an expansion chamber that permit the wellhead gas burner to continuously operate and accommodate wellhead gas pressure fluctuations. The wellhead gas burner may also be configured as a primary heat source and integrated with a traditional propane/diesel gas burner system configured as a supplemental heat source. The wellhead gas burner may also be mounted to a mobile superheater truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Paul Briggs
  • Publication number: 20160305223
    Abstract: Methods and systems wherein a first setpoint is used with a controller to translate the setpoint into a desired flow rate from a pump and used to determining an optimized command signal associated with the first setpoint with a process control system, the process control system configured to incorporate at least a first setpoint and a measurement signal to produce the optimized command signal. The optimized command signal is then stored in a memory of the computer. When the first setpoint is again desired, the optimized command signal associated with the first setpoint is read from the memory and transmitted to the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Max L. Phillippi, Mehdi Mazrooee, Chad A. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20160305224
    Abstract: A gravel packing apparatus has first and second joints each including a sand control screen assembly a slurry delivery subassembly positioned exteriorly of the sand control screen assembly. Each slurry delivery subassembly includes a transport tube extending longitudinally along the sand control screen assembly. A jumper tube extends between and is sealably coupled to the transport tube of the first joint and the transport tube of the second joint. A first locking assembly is operably coupled between the jumper tube and the transport tube of the first joint and a second locking assembly is operably coupled between the jumper tube and the transport tube of the second joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Brandon Thomas Least, Gregory Scott Cunningham, Jean Marc Lopez, Jan Veit
  • Publication number: 20160305225
    Abstract: Reducing the diameter of a well bore has many advantages. To achieve this a subsurface well bore is provided comprising one or more expandable sleeve components, preferably expandable liners, each expandable sleeve component being fully overlapped by one or more non expandable sleeve component, preferably conventional liners, such that the interior of the well bore is cased entirely by non expandable sleeve components. In addition the through holes for downhole lines can be provided within the well head rather than the tubing hanger. As the tubing hanger does not need to provide space for through holes and associated mounting couplings, its diameter can be reduced, thus reducing the internal diameter of the well bore by several inches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: STATOIL PETROLEUM AS
    Inventors: Audun FAANES, Halvor KJØRHOLT, Torstein VINGE
  • Publication number: 20160305226
    Abstract: A multi-perforating assembly can include a housing containing a rotor. The rotor can be axially stroked by a multi-stroker tool. Upon axial movement, the rotor can cooperate with the housing to incrementally rotate. Axial movement of the rotor can cause a multi-perforating cartridge to radially pierce. Rotation of the rotor combined with piercing of the multi-perforating cartridge can enable multiple piercings to be easily and quickly performed in a single run. A multi-perforating cartridge can include a blade pivotally attached to a slider. The blade can be pulled past ports in a cartridge housing whereupon biasing springs can push the blade into the ports and a support pin can push the blade into piercing positions before pushing the blade into transitional positions, after which the blade can be biased into the subsequent port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Mark S. Holly, Nikhil Manmadhan Kartha
  • Publication number: 20160305227
    Abstract: Embodiments provide a system, apparatus and method for artificial lift including a hydraulic downhole rodless pump actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Ed Purcell, Mark W. Rose, William W. Jackson, Cole W. Dunnam
  • Publication number: 20160305228
    Abstract: An injection sleeve and apparatus for injecting fluid into a well includes a flow tube having a piston which upon fluid flow opens one or more outlet ports. The injection sleeve is adapted to include a variable orifice insert which prevents flow through the tool at a first selected pressure level until the outlet ports are in an open position, thereby protecting packing seals on either side of the outlet ports from undue wear and tear, and prolonging the life of the tool. At a second pressure level, the variable orifice insert permits flow through injection sleeve to the formation injection zones. A plurality of the sleeves may be used for sequentially injecting fluid into a plurality of injection formation zones surrounding a well. When injection fluid flow is terminated, the injection sleeves act as a dual barrier valve for preventing flow from the injection formation zones back to the well head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: Tejas Research & Engineering, LLC
    Inventors: Jason C. Mailand, Thomas G. Hill, JR.
  • Publication number: 20160305229
    Abstract: Methods relating to using fracturing fluids in fracturing process for fracturing of subterranean formations are provided. The methods comprise sequentially injecting into a wellbore, alternating stages of a low-viscosity fracturing fluid having a first viscosity and a high-viscosity fracturing fluid having a second viscosity, wherein there is a viscosity difference such that the first viscosity is lower than the second viscosity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Jesse Clay Hampton, Aaron Gene Russell
  • Publication number: 20160305230
    Abstract: A system and method for surface steerable drilling are provided. In one example, the method includes monitoring operating parameters for drilling rig equipment and bottom hole assembly (BHA) equipment for a BHA, where the operating parameters control the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment. The method includes receiving current inputs corresponding to performance data of the drilling rig equipment and BHA equipment during a drilling operation and determining that an amount of change between the current inputs and corresponding previously received inputs exceeds a defined threshold. The method further includes determining whether a modification to the operating parameters has occurred that would result in the amount of change exceeding the defined threshold and identifying that a problem exists in at least one of the drilling rig equipment and BA equipment if no modification has occurred to the operating parameters. The method includes performing a defined action if a problem exists.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: TODD W. BENSON, TEDDY C. CHEN, DAVID LEE SIMPSON
  • Publication number: 20160305231
    Abstract: A system and method for drilling a borehole in a subsurface formation. A method includes rotating a drill bit to remove formation material from the subsurface formation at an end of the borehole. A value of mechanical specific energy applied to remove the formation material is calculated. A value of drilling efficiency is calculated based on the value of mechanical specific energy. Pore pressure of the subsurface formation in contact with the drill bit is calculated as a function of calculated drilling efficiency. Real-time operational decisions (such as adjusting density of drilling fluid or determining the final depth of the hole section) are made based on calculated pore pressure of the subsurface formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Reza Majidi, Martin Albertin
  • Publication number: 20160305232
    Abstract: A system for monitoring equipment in an oil well, the system including a first sensor attached to a first well component, a second sensor attached to a second well component, a transducer attached to one of the first or the second sensors, for generating a pulse, a transceiver for measuring parameters of the pulse generated by the transducer, and a processor in communication with the transceiver that receives information about parameters of the pulse as measured by the transceiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Derrell Wade Bird, Chad Eric Yates
  • Publication number: 20160305233
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an inspection assembly (10) for inspecting the interior of a pipe (12). The inspection assembly (10) comprises a sensor assembly (20) adapted to receive a sensor signal and a housing (22) within which the sensor assembly (20) is at least partially arranged. The inspection assembly (10) comprises a seal (24) at a first housing end (31). Moreover, the inspection assembly (10) is adapted to assume a transport condition in which the sensor assembly (20) is positioned in a first position in the housing (22) and in which the seal (24) is closed. The inspection assembly is further adapted to assume an inspection condition in which the inspection assembly (20) is positioned in a second position, closer to the first housing end (31) as compared to the first position, and in which the seal (24) is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Øyvind HOVLAND, André HOGNESTAD
  • Publication number: 20160305234
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drilling apparatus for producing a cased bore with a first drill drive for driving a drill rod in a rotating manner, at the lower end of which a drilling tool for removing ground material is arranged, a mast, along which the first drill drive is movable with a sledge, and a second drive, with which a support tube for the bore can be introduced into the ground. According to the invention a computer unit is provided, in which a current drilling depth of the drilling tool and a depth of introduction of the support tube are indicated. Furthermore, a monitor is provided, on which the current drilling depth in relation to the depth of introduction of the support tube can be displayed by the computer unit. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a drilling apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: BAUER Maschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Werner KORHERR, Werner Josef HARTHAUSER
  • Publication number: 20160305235
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting acoustic signals in housing is disclosed. The housing may be housing of a wellbore, riser, tubular or pipeline or the like for transporting fluids or housing of a vessel for storing fluids. The apparatus comprises a longitudinally extending tube having an internal surface and an external surface, a longitudinally extending fibre optic cable disposed within the tube, and one or more than one longitudinally extending outer fins radially extending outwards from and coupled with the external surface of the tube. The outer fin is configured to project towards the housing and allows fluid between the external surface of the tube and the housing when the apparatus is positioned in the housing. The apparatus may alternatively comprise a longitudinally extending fibre optic cable coated with a coating and one or more than one longitudinally extending outer fin radially extending outwards from and coupled with the coated fibre optic cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: Hifi Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: John Hull, Seyed Jalilian
  • Publication number: 20160305236
    Abstract: A method of managing data obtained in a borehole is provided. The method includes monitoring a characteristic with at least one sensor and obtaining raw data therefrom; indexing the raw data with the at least one sensor; recording the indexed data with the at least one sensor; forming a data packet with the at least one sensor, the data packet including at least a portion of the indexed data and index information; and transmitting the data packet in a predetermined segment of a communication protocol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Michael A. Forsberg, Mike Allen Swatek, James Joseph Freeman, Steve James Coulston, Thomas McClain Scott, Nicholas L. Bayard, Henry Chang
  • Publication number: 20160305237
    Abstract: A system and method for showing heterogeneity of a porous sample by evaluating the porous sample to generate a digital core image, performing segmentations on the digital core image using multiple approaches to obtain a segmented volume, dividing the segmented volume into one or more sub-volumes of differing size, calculating one or more petrophysical or fluid flow parameters or porosity from the one or more sub-volumes, and presenting data as a structure composed of grid blocks representing an exact representation of the one or more sub-volumes positioned according to a spatial location of the one or more sub-volumes based on selected parameters or values from the one or more petrophysical or fluid flow parameters or porosity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Denis Vladimirovich Klemin, Mark Andersen, Alexander Nikolaevich Nadeev
  • Publication number: 20160305238
    Abstract: Systems and methods for calculating reservoir characteristics, including well pressure and flow rates are disclosed. Plotting and monitoring a plot of pressure (p) and flow rate (q) as p/q on a y-axis and 1/q on an x-axis can provide insight into well characteristics with zero RMS error.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Varma Gottumukkala, Bobby Dale Poe, JR.
  • Publication number: 20160305239
    Abstract: A downhole logging tool, in an illustrative embodiment, includes an NMR measurement system with surface NMR microcoils located on an outer surface of the downhole logging tool. Each surface NMR microcoil has a central axis and is distributed around the outer surface of the logging tool with the surface NMR microcoil central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the logging tool. The NMR measurement system may have a central flow line in fluid communication with the drilling fluid. Additional surface NMR microcoils or a flow line microcoil may be disposed circumferentially around the central flow line with the surface NMR microcoil central axis and the flow line NMR microcoil central axis, respectively, perpendicular and parallel to the central flow line longitudinal axis. The NMR measurement system may include a bypass flow line in fluid communication with fluid in the wellbore annulus and/or the drill pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Timothy Andrew John Hopper, Yi-Qiao Song
  • Publication number: 20160305240
    Abstract: Systems and methods for downhole formation testing based on the use of one or more elongated sealing pads disposed in various orientations capable of sealing off and collecting or injecting fluids from elongated portions along the surface of a borehole. The various orientations and amount of extension of each sealing pad can increase the flow area by collecting fluids from an extended portion along the surface of a wellbore, which is likely to straddle one or more layers in laminated or fractured formations. Various designs and arrangements for use with a fluid tester, which may be part of a modular fluid tool, are disclosed in accordance with different embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Philip Edmund Fox, Michael E. Shade, Gregory N. Gilbert, Mark A. Proett, Christopher Michael Jones
  • Publication number: 20160305241
    Abstract: A method of making a strike construction for a pick tool, a strike construction for a pick tool and a pick tool. The strike construction comprises a strike tip (2) and a support body (20), in which respective attachment ends (10,22) of each of the strike tip and support body are joined to each other, the attachment end of the strike tip is coterminous with cemented carbide material comprised in the strike tip, and the attachment end of the support body is coterminous with cemented carbide material comprised in an end portion of the support body, the end portion being configured such that sides of the support body depend divergently from its attachment end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: DANIEL HLAWATSCHEK, BERND HEINRICH RIES
  • Publication number: 20160305242
    Abstract: A cutter bit includes a wear resistant element replaceably mounted to a front surface immediately below the cutting surface of the cutter bit. The body of the cutter bit is generally formed of a hardened steel, the cutting surface can be a diamond composition fixed in a step in the upper end of the cutter bit including side edges that taper laterally outwardly toward a lower edge of the cutting surface situated adjacent to the wear resistant element and the wear resistant element is preferably formed of a carbide composition or a sintered diamond composition. The wear resistant element can have an upper edge that closely conforms to the shape of an adjacent lower edge of the cutting surface, and can be coupled to a front end of a stem passing through an opening in the cutter bit immediately below the cutting surface, the opening being perpendicular to at least a portion of the back surface of the cutter bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Winchester E. Latham
  • Publication number: 20160305243
    Abstract: A rock bolting system rock bolting system comprising a frame supporting a movable bolter feed rail, a bolter feed slidable on the bolter feed rail, the bolter feed having a bolt driver for driving a rock bolt into a drilled hole in a rock face, a plate magazine for storing a plurality of bolt plates, and a plate holder for holding a plate to enable the plate to function as a centralizer to centralize the bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventor: Yves Nelson
  • Publication number: 20160305244
    Abstract: The invention concerns a smoke extraction module (1), a smoke extraction system (20) and a method for using such a system which enables extracting of smoke (6) from tunnels, in particular large road tunnels. The module comprises a duct (2) for transportation of smoke, a suspension means (10) which is at least indirectly connected to the duct, thereby enabling suspended convection between the duct and the tunnel wall or tunnel ceiling (4) and a detachment mechanism (5), which, when activated, is arranged to detach the duct from the suspension means such that a displacement of the duct is enabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: Tunnel Air Systems AS
    Inventor: Rune Storrøsæter
  • Publication number: 20160305245
    Abstract: A transportation main roadway and stope branch roadways are arranged by adopting a wangeviry coal mining method. A plurality of stope branch roadways are divided into multiple mining stages, based on which the stope branch roadways are skip-mined; and coal pillars are not reserved among the stope branch roadways. The transportation main roadway is a main transportation channel, and the stope branch roadways are coal mining roadways. All the stope branch roadways are sequentially stoped in a skip-mining manner according to the designed mining sequence and are sequentially and timely filled. The coal never stoped or the filled stope branch roadways is/are used as supports for controlling roofs at the two sides of the stope branch roadways, and the stope branch roadways are sequentially stoped according to a plurality of mining stages, and finally the coal pillar-free mining is realized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Liqiang MA, Xiaomin YU, Yinzhong ZHANG, Jiaxue WANG, Junjie WANG, Maoping ZHAO, Jianbo CAO, Peng DI, Zhiyuan JIN, Fei WANG
  • Publication number: 20160305246
    Abstract: A method includes retrieving an engine fingerprint of engine components, wherein, for each of the engine components, the engine fingerprint includes a first identifier uniquely identifying each of the engine components. The method also includes querying a plurality of the engine components configured to be disposed in an engine system. Further, the method includes determining if a first engine component is a replacement component, a new component, or an originally installed component based on the engine fingerprint, the first identifier, and the query.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2015
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Lori Jean Meidenbauer Welch, John M. Burant
  • Publication number: 20160305247
    Abstract: A device includes an extractor structurally configured to extract energy from a fluid flow, an accelerator structurally configured to accelerate a fluid stream through the extractor thereby creating an accelerated fluid stream, and an extractor feature structurally configured to minimize blockage of the accelerated fluid stream. The extractor feature may include one or more of a linear cascade, an oscillating foil, and an axial extractor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Inventors: Robert M. Freda, Bradford Knight
  • Publication number: 20160305248
    Abstract: A coolant feed arrangement for delivering coolant to an axially facing surface of a rotor disc configured for carrying a row of turbine blades on its radially outer surface, the coolant delivered through a conduit upstream of the rotor disc, which has an outlet arranged radially inwardly of the blades and directed at the axially facing surface, the arrangement including two or more impediments; at least one impediment including a work extractor device arranged in the conduit to extract work from the coolant on route to a last impediment arranged at or adjacent the outlet, the last impediment including a row of static nozzles configured for accelerating the flow of coolant circumferentially in the direction of rotation of the axially facing surface of the disc whereby to match the speed and direction of rotation of the axially facing surface as the coolant is delivered to the axially facing surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Publication date: October 20, 2016
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE plc
    Inventors: Keith C. SADLER, Frederic GOENAGA, Andrew J. MYLREA