Patents Issued in February 8, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180038147
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a body and a door that is movably mounted to the body. The door has a powered latch and an electrically-powered actuator that extends and retracts a plunger from an inner side of the door. A controller unlatches the powered latch and actuates the electrically-powered actuator such that the plunger contacts the body and pushes the door open. The controller then controls the electrically-powered actuator to retract the plunger while the door is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: H. Paul Tsvi Linden, Christopher Matthew Radjewski, Constantin Manolescu, James Parsons Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20180038148
    Abstract: A system for a vehicle includes: a door; an electric actuating motor that opens and closes the door, the electric actuating motor configured for actuating at a hinge of the door; a push-open actuator mounted at a rear of the door, the push-open actuator configured for pushing against a body of the vehicle; and a wireless device configured for communications to the vehicle. A system for a vehicle includes: a front door; a rear door behind the front door, the rear door having a dual-hinge design that opens and closes in a substantially vertical direction; an electric actuating motor that opens and closes the front door, the electric actuating motor configured for actuating at a hinge of the front door; and a wireless device configured for communications to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Applicant: Tesla, Inc.
    Inventors: David Wheeler, Chris McCarthy, Jacob Warman, Austin Newman, John Hughes
  • Publication number: 20180038149
    Abstract: A metal door frame for a door opening comprising at least one first door frame segment for upper or side portions of the door opening, the at least one first door frame segment having a first molding flange, a first jamb face adjacent to the molding flange, and a first stop flange adjacent to the jamb face. The metal door frame includes at least one second door frame segment for upper and side portions of the door opening, the at least one second door frame segment having a second molding flange, a second jamb face adjacent to the molding flange, a second stop flange adjacent to the jamb face, a second stop face adjacent to the stop flange, and a third stop flange adjacent to the stop face. The metal door frame includes a thermally insulative layer between the first door frame segment and the second door frame segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Bobby Neal Strickland, Jeffrey R. Badgett, Charles Prentice Stewart, Vince A. Hughes, Dale R. Childers
  • Publication number: 20180038150
    Abstract: A method for producing a triple insulating glazing unit is presented. According to the method, one pane is inserted into a groove of a spacer that is peripherally shaped to form a spacer frame to enframe the pane. A first pane and a second pane are connected to corresponding contact surfaces of the spacer frame by way of an upper edge and lateral edges of the first and second panes. Lower edges of the first and second panes are bent outward. Formed interpane spaces are filled from below with a protective gas, and the arrangement of the panes and the spacer frame is sealed and pressed together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Hans-Werner KUSTER, Walter SCHREIBER
  • Publication number: 20180038151
    Abstract: A glass unit including a spacer, a front glass pane attached to a front side of the spacer, a back glass pane attached to a back side of the spacer, and a pressure equalization conduit defined by and within the spacer, wherein the pressure equalization conduit has a first end and a second end, wherein the pressure equalization conduit contains a desiccant and is in fluid communication with an exterior of the glass unit at a first end port adjacent to the first end and with an interior space of the glass unit at a second end port adjacent to the second end. The glass unit may further include one or more intermediate layers contained within the interior space and one or more floating suspension systems for supporting the intermediate layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Applicant: LITEZONE TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventor: Gregory L. Clarahan
  • Publication number: 20180038152
    Abstract: A first glass substrate and a second glass substrate which are placed to face each other with a seal member in-between are bonded to each other with the seal member. Subsequently, the first glass substrate, the seal member, and the second glass substrate are cut collectively along a cut plane passing through the seal member from one of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate bonded to each other. Thereby, a glass panel unit is manufactured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Masataka NONAKA, Eiichi URIU, Tasuku ISHIBASHI, Hiroyuki ABE, Haruhiko ISIKAWA, Kenji HASEGAWA, Kazuya HASEGAWA
  • Publication number: 20180038153
    Abstract: A dosage device for extruding a bicomponent or a monocomponent sealant, particularly for an automatic machine for sealing a perimetric edge of an insulating glazing unit constituted by at least two glass sheets and by at least one spacer frame, having a finite width, is arranged proximate to the perimeter at a finite distance from the margin of the glass sheets, includes a first dosage assembly and a separate second dosage assembly for the dosage and feeding of the sealant, which can be activated alternately, in a first feeding step and in a third feeding step, so that one of them provides flow continuity to an extrusion nozzle while the other one is in the reloading step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Fortunato VIANELLO, Riccardo VIANELLO
  • Publication number: 20180038154
    Abstract: A dosage device for extruding a monocomponent or a bicomponent polymeric product, particularly for an automatic machine for forming a spacer frame, includes a first dosage assembly and a separate second dosage assembly for the dosage and feeding of the product, which can be activated, in a first feeding step and in a third feeding step, alternately so that one of them provides continuity of flow to an extrusion nozzle while the other one is in the reloading step. The first and second dosage assemblies are activated, in a second swapping step that is intermediate with respect to the first and third feeding steps, simultaneously and jointly, one of them having a flow-rate ramp that passes from the steady-state value to zero and the other one complementarily having a flow-rate ramp that passes from zero to the steady-state value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Fortunato VIANELLO, Riccardo VIANELLO
  • Publication number: 20180038155
    Abstract: A cover for closing an access opening that leads to an infrequently used space within a building, such as an attic, that generally provides an air seal, thermal insulation and/or acoustic insulation at the access opening. The cover may be in one or two portions, including a closure alone or a closure and a frame having an aperture that can be closed by engagement between the closure and the frame. When the cover is used alone it engages a frame or a wall circumscribing the access opening. The cover is sized and shaped to close a stairwell, or the opening at one end of a stairway, an opening in a generally vertical wall, a hatch, or a pull down ladder. The closure and frame are each made of one or more components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: James B. Melesky
  • Publication number: 20180038156
    Abstract: Protective glazing systems, apparatus, and associated methods for the protection of structural openings against impacts from projectiles, intruders, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the system may comprise a protective panel positioned over a structural glazing. A means for creating a standoff between the protective panel and the structural glazing, such as a structural standoff component, may be used to create a gap and/or prevent the protective panel from contacting the at least one structural glazing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Gary Robert Trott
  • Publication number: 20180038157
    Abstract: A fire door includes an intermediate member formed in the shape of a plate and arranged between a first plate member and a second plate member; a first heat insulating material arranged between the first plate member and the intermediate member; a second heat insulating material arranged between the second plate member and the intermediate member; a first coupling member for coupling the first plate member and the intermediate member, arranged so as to extend through the first heat insulating material; and a second coupling member for coupling the second plate member and the intermediate member, arranged so as to extend through the second heat insulating material. The first coupling member is arranged so as to be spaced away from both of the second plate member and the second coupling member. The second coupling member is arranged so as to be spaced away from the first plate member, and the first plate member and the second plate member are arranged so as to be spaced away from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Yukihisa Matsuo, Kouji Yasuda, Yoshihiro Hosaka, Naoki Kawabe, Nobuo Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20180038158
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and device capturing and converting solar heat from infrared absorbing coatings on transparent surfaces, such as glass or polycarbonate, into electricity through the use of at least one thermoelectric generator. This electrical energy can then be used or stored for future access.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Camille Charles Chidiac, Kailey Rae Bradt
  • Publication number: 20180038159
    Abstract: A position sensing system and method for detecting the displacement of a door from a reference position, such as, for example, from a closed position. The system includes a magnetometer that may be operably connected to the door, and which measures positional location relative to a reference magnetic field, such as, for example, a magnetic field provided by a magnet of a lock device. The system may also include an accelerometer that detects acceleration of the door, and thereby provides an indication of when location is to be measured by the magnetometer. Measurement information from the magnetometer is used to derive a position indicator that is compared to a reference indicator, the reference indicator being associated with the reference position. Differences between the position and reference indicators may provide an indication that the door has been moved from the reference position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Ryan C. Kincaid, Gabriel D. Focke, Brian A. Telljohann, Raymond F. Rettig, Matthew Dexter, Ryne Rayburn
  • Publication number: 20180038160
    Abstract: A magnetic track assembly including an elongate channel having an open side, an end wall, and two parallel side walls; a first magnet disposed within the elongate channel near an interior side of the end wall; a compartment defined within the elongate channel spaced from the first magnet; and a screen receiver disposed within the compartment and including a second magnet arranged facing the first magnet. In the magnetic track assembly, the first and second magnets are of opposite polarity and the screen receiver is loosely disposed within the compartment such that a magnetic bond is intact between the first and second magnets when the first and second magnets are close together and the magnetic bond is broken when the first and second magnets are pulled apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Arthur James, Jan Gross
  • Publication number: 20180038161
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a flood vent panel includes a plurality of insulation pieces positioned together, and a panel frame surrounding the plurality of insulation pieces. The flood vent panel is configured to be coupled to a frame positionable into an opening in a structure, so as to at least partially block a fluid passageway through the opening in the structure. One or more of the plurality of insulation pieces are configured to uncouple from the flood vent panel when at least a predetermined amount of pressure is applied to a portion of the flood vent panel by one or more of a fluid or an object carried by the fluid, so as to reduce an amount of blockage of the fluid passageway provided by the flood vent panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Applicant: Smart Vent Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Winfield Scott Anderson, JR., Tom Little, Michael J. Graham
  • Publication number: 20180038162
    Abstract: Example architectural opening coverings powered by rotary motors are described. An example an architectural covering comprises a rotatable member, a covering mounted to said rotatable member, a motor to rotate a drive shaft, and a drive shaft coupling structured to: couple the drive shaft to said rotatable member to rotate said rotatable member to raise said covering when said motor is energized to rotate the drive shaft in a first direction, and substantially prevent the drive shaft from applying torque to said rotatable member when said motor is energized to rotate the drive shaft in a second direction to lower said covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Wendell Colson, Daniel Fogarty
  • Publication number: 20180038163
    Abstract: A linear actuator having a power rod supported by movable supports is disclosed. The movable supports can provide support to the power rod to avoid buckling of the power rod under large compressive forces. The movable supports are designed to move towards (e.g., by a biasing mechanism) a first position that minimizes the unsupported length of the power rod, but are capable of being displaced by the power rod during extension of the power rod. Examples of movable supports include slidable bearings (e.g., axially slidable) or rotating braces (e.g., rotatable form a supporting position to an out-of-the-way position). Examples of suitable biasing mechanisms include springs and spring members. In some embodiments, hydraulic force is used to move the movable supports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Nikhil Manmadham Kartha, Mark S. Holly
  • Publication number: 20180038164
    Abstract: Systems and methods divide flow in a wellbore into a plurality of flow paths. A first one of the flow paths extends to a down-hole turbine that is responsive to fluid flow to provide rotational motion to an electric generator or other down-hole tool. A second flow path may extend to an independent down-hole tool, to a port communicating with the wellbore, to a bypass channel extending around the turbine, or to any other down-hole location. The turbine includes a stator having adjustable blades such that an open flow area through the turbine may be selectively controlled. A flow distribution between the first and second flow paths can be controlled where specific flow areas are needed at specific flow rates, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Olumide O. Odegbami, Stephen Christopher Janes
  • Publication number: 20180038165
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a core drill apparatus which is mounted to a working boom of an excavator so as to drill rock or a concrete structure and, more particularly, to a core drill apparatus for installation in an excavator, which comprises a ring gear and a plurality of elevation cylinders that are connected to and installed in a working support frame mounted to the end of a working boom of an excavator so as to rotate the working support frame, and at the same time, is configured to support the working frame while adjusting the height of the slope using the elevation cylinders when the working frame is supported on an inclined work surface. Therefore, the present invention enables a drilling bit provided in the working support frame to stably drill a structure regardless of the inclination of a work surface to be drilled, and can thus significantly improve the efficiency of a drilling operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Jae-Mun PARK
  • Publication number: 20180038166
    Abstract: The disclosure of this application is directed to a downhole tool comprising a central element/member and a sleeve that is rotatably and orbitally disposed around the central element/member. The sleeve rotates and orbits around the central element/member responsive to fluid flowing through the downhole too. The disclosure is also related to a method of advancing the downhole tool in a well by flowing fluid through the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Roger Schultz, Brock Watson, Andy Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20180038167
    Abstract: An additive manufacturing method for making a metal matrix composite component includes melting a powdered mixture with an electron beam. The powdered mixture comprises powdered tungsten carbide in an amount of 45 wt % to 72 wt % of the powdered mixture and a powdered binder in an amount of 28 wt % to 55 wt % of the powdered mixture. The powdered binder comprises boron, silicon, and nickel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Applicant: Seed Technologies Corp.,Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuehua Xu, Yuan Yuan, Bin Liu
  • Publication number: 20180038168
    Abstract: An installation of bottom-to-surface connections of at least two undersea pipes (11-1, 11-2) resting on the sea bottom (10), and a rigid pipe (1-1, 1-2) constituted by a vertical riser having its bottom end (1a) fastened to a base (9-1, 9-2) at the sea bottom (10), and having its top end (1b) tensioned by an immersed float (4-1, 4-2); and a flexible connection pipe (2-1, 2-2) providing the connection between a common floating support (12) and the top end (1b) of the vertical riser via a junction device (3-1, 3-2; wherein two hybrid towers are connected together by at least one rigid separator bar (5) having a length not less than the diameter of the larger-diameter float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Giulio FATICA, Gianmarco ROTA, Roberto PALLADINI
  • Publication number: 20180038169
    Abstract: A releasable locking mechanism 20 for use in a downhole well 10 is provided. The releasable locking mechanism 20 is suitable for use in a cable termination assembly 11. The cable termination assembly 11 is coupled to a downhole apparatus 12 and is configured for coupling a cable line 13 thereto. The releasable locking mechanism 20 includes an extension tube 21 adapted to be coupled to the cable line 13, and a base assembly 23 adapted to be coupled to the cable termination assembly 11. The extension tube 21 and the base assembly 23 are adapted to releasably engage each other in such a manner that when a tensile load in the cable line 13 exceeds a predefined threshold value, the extension tube 21 and the base assembly 23 are disengaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Joseph Allan Nicholson
  • Publication number: 20180038170
    Abstract: A double drill rod section has an outer drill rod section and an inner drill rod section. The inner drill rod section has at least one conductor. In order to bring about an electrical connection of the conductor, the inner drill rod section has an essentially annular outer contact, and, in the annular space between the outer drill rod section and the inner drill rod section, a pick-up is in contact with the annular outer contact of the inner drill rod section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Volker Boike
  • Publication number: 20180038171
    Abstract: Connections between drill pipe sections and drill bits used for boring into the earth may comprise two elements threadably attachable one to another. A first element may comprise a rotor rotatable with respect to a stator. A second element may thread to the stator. As it does so, the second element may rotationally fix itself to the rotor allowing for connecting elements on the second element and the rotor to align. These connecting elements may remain aligned while the second element and rotor rotate with respect to the stator. Such alignment may allow for a connection to be kept clean and free from contamination in otherwise wet and dirty environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Jonathan D. Marshall, Scott Dahlgren, Malcolm Taylor
  • Publication number: 20180038172
    Abstract: The invention provides a centralizer for use with downhole operations. The centralizer is formed of a hollow, cylindrical body having an exposed outer surface and formed of a non-metallic material, a plurality of non-metallic blades protruding from the outer surface of the cylindrical body, and a plurality of wear buttons positioned on each of the plurality of blades, each of the wear buttons having a surface designed to reduce grabbing or sticking and wear of the hollow cylindrical body, such as a smooth, oval surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Nicholas Frederick Budler, Jimmy Dale Sandsness
  • Publication number: 20180038173
    Abstract: A bell design crown block for a top mounted compensator includes a removable, tilting sheave block mounted within the outside perimeter of a crown block yoke. An actuator installed in the crown block actuates the tilt function. No hinge adaptor is required and the sheave block does not hang past or below the crown block yoke. When used in a floating platform application, idler sheaves are mounted on the crown block yoke and an optional interface beam may be provided for the active heave cylinder head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Tiago Manuel Fernandes Nunes, Nils Christian Hagen, Hakon Frank Bergan
  • Publication number: 20180038174
    Abstract: A device and drilling rig are disclosed for suspending loads from a bail or an elevator of such drilling rig, and method therefor. The device includes an upper bail clamp for clamping around the bail, a lower bail clamp for clamping around the bail, and a connecting part which is connected to the upper bail clamp by means of upper connecting means and connected to the lower bail clamp by means of lower connecting means. The connecting part is further provided with a coupling means for connecting the connecting part to the load to be suspended from the bail. At least one of the upper connecting means allow translational movement of the connecting part with respect to one of the upper bail clamps, while another of the connecting means are arranged to prevent translational movement of the connecting part with respect to the other of the lower bail clamps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Jan Noord
  • Publication number: 20180038175
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for preventing the uncontrolled release of fluid materials from a well string during decoupling are provided. The apparatus includes an elongated body having an internal passage running along the longitudinal axis thereof, wherein the internal passage is configured to conform to the outer perimeter of a portion of a pipe and coupling of a well string such that fluid released from the coupled pipes during a decoupling operation is controllably redirected downward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Lee Gordon Crane
  • Publication number: 20180038176
    Abstract: Methods include deploying a downhole tool into a wellbore with a conveyance apparatus by mounting a tool to a distal end of a spooled conveyance apparatus, routing the conveyance apparatus around a powered sheave assembly, which includes a plurality of grooves disposed on the outer surface of the sheave to accommodate the conveyance apparatus, and providing a power source for applying torque to the powered sheave. The powered sheave assembly then deploys the conveyance apparatus into the wellbore. In some cases a traction device may be disposed between the powered sheave and the wellbore to provide axial force in both directions. The conveyance apparatus is moved through a sealing apparatus, a blowout preventer, and a wellhead, with the powered sheave, after the routing the conveyance apparatus around a powered sheave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Rod William SHAMPINE
  • Publication number: 20180038177
    Abstract: A riser assembly includes a main body which encloses a main body main passage extending from a first end to a second end which is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis, the main body being mounted in a riser so that that the main body main passage forms a part of a main passage of the riser. A first port and a second port extend through the main body to connect the main body main passage with an exterior of the main body. A tubular extends along the main body main passage. A first sealing assembly is arranged in the main body between the first port and the second port. The first sealing assembly provides a seal between the main body and the tubular. At least two diversion lines extend from the first port to the second port. A pump is arranged within each diversion line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Applicant: MANAGED PRESSURE OPERATIONS PTE. LTD
    Inventor: CHRISTIAN LEUCHTENBERG
  • Publication number: 20180038178
    Abstract: Methods including introducing a running fluid into a subterranean formation, the running fluid comprising a base fluid and a weighting agent and having a specific gravity in the range of about 1.05 to about 3.0, and a 600 rpm shear stress of less than about 26.3 Pa, wherein the 600 rpm shear stress is measured at a shear rate of 600 rpm and a temperature of about 48.9° C.; and running a tubular into the subterranean formation comprising the running fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Philip Wayne LIVANEC, Chesnee Lae DAVIS, William Walter SHUMWAY
  • Publication number: 20180038179
    Abstract: A flow monitoring device for monitoring mud flow in a return line of a bore hole drilling operation, including a mounting bracket mounted to the return line with a viewing port for access to an interior of the return line. A light source illuminates, through the viewing port, a portion of the mud flow in an observation zone within the return line. A camera creates a plurality of images of the mud flow in the observation zone. A controller is configured to analyze the plurality images to: determine a level of the mud flow in the return line and the presence of at least one irregularity, track a movement of the irregularity across the plurality of images to determine a rate of movement of the irregularity, and calculate a flow rate of the mud flow through the return line based on the movement rate and the determined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas M. Canty, Miles Priore, Colin Dalton
  • Publication number: 20180038180
    Abstract: A device for limiting the flow of drilling fluid through a section of drill string is described. The device includes a cylindrical tube with holes in its periphery. Flow enters the device through an upper end of the tube and a portion of the flow exits through the lower end of the tube. In addition, some of the flow is diverted through the peripheral holes. A valve piston is supported near the lower end of the tube by a spring of approximately constant force through its range of travel. The valve piston moves axially as the flow rate through the tube changes flow rate to ensure that a substantially constant amount of flow exits through the lower end, while the excess flow is diverted from the tube through the peripheral holes. A means of damping or stopping the axial movement of the valve piston is included in the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: David S. CRAMER, Michael J. HARVEY, David D. DEVLIN
  • Publication number: 20180038181
    Abstract: A valve assembly (10) comprises a flow path extending from an assembly inlet (20) to an assembly outlet (22), a valve (24a/26a) arranged within the flow path and a filter assembly arranged within the flow path between the assembly inlet and the valve. The filter assembly comprises a filter chamber defining a particle settlement region, a filter chamber inlet for facilitating inflow of a fluid into the chamber, and a filter chamber outlet for facilitating outflow of fluid from the chamber towards the valve, wherein the filter chamber outlet includes a particle filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Daniel George Purkis, William Murray
  • Publication number: 20180038182
    Abstract: The present disclosure is for a vibratory downhole rotary apparatus. The apparatus includes a cylindrical hollow body, a stator disposed within the cylindrical hollow body and a rotor disposed within the stator. The apparatus also includes a flow resistance system to vary the resistance of fluid flow through the apparatus to increase and decrease backpressure across the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Roger Schultz, Brock Watson
  • Publication number: 20180038183
    Abstract: A fluid handling system comprising an annular sealing device and a flow control system to divert fluid flow from an annulus of a riser package to a control system located on a rig. A method of installing a fluid handling system on a riser package from a rig comprises connecting the fluid handling system to an upper end of a riser string, supporting the fluid handling system and the riser string using a first tubular handling device, and lowering the fluid handling system and the riser string to an operating position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Martin TINDLE, Brian Patrick GARRETT, Nicholas Blake SCHOLZ
  • Publication number: 20180038184
    Abstract: An assembly includes a first hub having a body and an end surface, first and second openings defined in the body and a plurality of segmented collets positioned around the body. A locking mandrel is operatively coupled to the body, wherein the locking mandrel is adapted to engage the plurality of segmented collets, and a latching/release mechanism is positioned at least partially within the first and second openings defined in the body, wherein the latching/release mechanism is adapted to be positioned in a first position wherein the locking mandrel is in an unlocked and loaded position and in a second position wherein the locking mandrel is released and engages the plurality of segmented collets so as to couple the first hub to a second hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Chance R. MULLINS
  • Publication number: 20180038185
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tool and associated method for making closed operation in subsea wells possible, without the use of cable or coiled tubing up to the rig or ship. The object of this solution is to move such operations to lighter and more cost efficient vessels or ships which are not necessarily required to handle hydrocarbons up to the deck of the vessel. The basis of maintaining two independent well barrier envelopes is met even if the tool and the method for operation does not require cutting functions for isolating the well from the environment. The tool comprises a hoist arrangement, a seal element and connection points. The localization and arrangement of these are essential for the invention. The invention also adapts for use of traditional workover systems as alternative, independent operation, if the new technique should not complete the operation as planned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Tor-Øystein Carlsen, Trond Løkka
  • Publication number: 20180038186
    Abstract: A tubing hanger system for suspending a tubing string within a wellbore is provided. The system is designed to place the tubing string in tension. The tubing hanger system comprises a tubing hanger and a tubing anchor. Both the tubing hanger and the tubing anchor are designed to reside in series with the production tubing. The tubing hanger is threadedly connected to the tubing string at the top of the wellbore. The tubing anchor is also threadedly connected to the tubing string but is configured to be set within a string of casing downhole. Beneficially, the tubing hanger and the tubing anchor is each uniquely configured to be set through a rotation of the tubing string that is less than one full rotation. This enables use of a stainless steel chemical injection line extending from the tubing hanger to the tubing anchor. A method for hanging a string of production tubing in a wellbore, in tension, is also provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Jerry D. Ross
  • Publication number: 20180038187
    Abstract: Disclosed here are systems and methods for modular blowout preventer (BOP) control. A modular BOP control unit system of one embodiment includes a group of modular control units mounted on a skid. The modular control units can include a main control unit module for an annular BOP, a diverter valve module for a diverter, and a BOP valve module for one or more ram BOPs. In some instances, the modular control units are received in pockets of the skid. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Konstantin Bieneman, Cedric Morin, Wei Kwan Toh, Yee Kang Tam
  • Publication number: 20180038188
    Abstract: Methods include providing a first portion of a tool string including a tool, a deployment bar, and at least one deployment valve, where the deployment valve includes a valve therein which is operable under wellbore pressure and further comprises a fluid passageway there through. The first portion of the tool string is connected to a conveyance device in a riser, and then moved into a blowout preventer body having at least one sealing ram for engaging with a neck on the deployment bar, where the valve is in an open position and the riser is under wellbore pressure during the moving. The at least one sealing ram is closed on the neck, valve closed, and pressure reduced in the riser. In some cases, the valve is pressure tested before pressure is reduced in the riser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Rod William SHAMPINE
  • Publication number: 20180038189
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured tool body assembly having valving members (e.g., safety or kelly values) and valving members holding plugs, balls, or darts to be dropped. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. An optional indicator indicates to a user or operator that a ball or plug has passed a selected one of the valving members. A transmitter (or transceiver) provides an ability to generate a wireless signal that is received by receivers (or transceivers) on the tool body assembly. Each receiver (or transceiver) controls an electrical actuator that engages a valving member or the indicator. Wireless signals can be used to open or close a valve or to reset a “tripped” indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Phil Barbee, Michael Mire, Joey Naquin
  • Publication number: 20180038190
    Abstract: An apparatus for effecting injection of fluids into a subsea horizontal tree includes a fluid injection tree cap having a body with a bore extending therethrough so as to open at one end to a top of the body. An isolation valve is cooperative with the bore of the body so as to open or close fluid flow through the bore. The fluid injection tree cap is connected to the horizontal subsea tree. The horizontal subsea tree has only a single crown plug therein. The bore of the fluid injection tree cap communicates with an annulus of the horizontal subsea tree. The horizontal subsea tree has valving therein so as to selectively direct fluid from the bore of the tree cap to the annulus of the well or to the horizontal subsea tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: David OLDER
  • Publication number: 20180038191
    Abstract: A downhole tool suitable for use in a wellbore, the tool comprising a hybrid sleeve in the form of a mandrel sleeve; and a sleeve insert disposed within the mandrel sleeve. The tool further includes a first slip disposed about the mandrel sleeve; and a second slip disposed about the mandrel sleeve and proximate to a conical surface. There is a lower sleeve proximate to the second slip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Evan Lloyd Davies, Duke Vanlue, Yanan Hou, Liguo Li, David Hughes
  • Publication number: 20180038192
    Abstract: A wellbore isolation device includes an elongate body and a packer assembly disposed about the elongate body and including upper and lower sealing elements positioned axially between an upper shoulder and a lower shoulder, a spacer interposing the upper and lower sealing elements and having an annular body that provides an upper end, a lower end, and a recessed portion extending between the upper and lower ends. An upper cover sleeve is coupled to the upper shoulder, and a lower cover sleeve is coupled to the lower shoulder. An upper support shoe has a lever arm extending over the upper sealing element and a jogged leg received within a gap defined between the upper cover sleeve and shoulder. A lower support shoe has a lever arm extending over the lower sealing element and a jogged leg received within a gap defined between the lower cover sleeve and shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Todd Anthony STAIR, Gary Joe MAKOWIECKI, Michael Dale EZELL
  • Publication number: 20180038193
    Abstract: A wellbore isolation device includes a wedge member that defines an outer surface and a barrel seal having a cylindrical body that provides an inner radial surface and an outer radial surface. The inner radial surface is engageable with the outer surface of the wedge member. The barrel seal further includes a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves defined through the body in an alternating configuration at opposing ends of the body. A raised lip protrudes radially from the outer radial surface and circuitously extends about a circumference of the body. A plurality of slip buttons is positioned in a corresponding plurality of holes defined in the outer radial surface of the body. At least one of the wedge member and the barrel seal is made of a degradable material that degrades when exposed to a wellbore environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2015
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary William WALTON, Michael Linley FRIPP, John Charles GANO, Zachary Ryan MURPHEE, David Allen DOCKWEILER
  • Publication number: 20180038194
    Abstract: A valve arrangement in a tubular having a first one way valve configured to prevent fluid flow in the tubular in a first direction; and a second one way valve configured to prevent fluid flow in the tubular in a second, opposite direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventors: Eric M. TWARDOWSKI, Albert C. ODELL, II, Tuong Thanh LE
  • Publication number: 20180038195
    Abstract: Methods for deploying a coiled tubing string into a wellbore include providing a coiled tubing having a distal end and an opposing end connected with a reel, providing a tool including a tool body, a valve operable under wellbore pressure disposed within the tool body, and a first fluid passageway and a second fluid passageway defined within the tool body. Fluid communication is established through the distal end of the coiled tubing and the first fluid passageway and the second fluid passageway, and the coiled tubing and tool are deployed into the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Rod William SHAMPINE
  • Publication number: 20180038196
    Abstract: There is disclosed a tie back float collar for use with a working string to create an extension of a well liner. The tie back float collar consists of a cylindrical housing having upper and lower cylindrical plugs threaded therein, the upper cylindrical plug having a conical left hand threaded receiver coaxially formed thereon with opposite upper and lower openings, the upper opening being larger than the lower opening. The lower cylindrical plug has a conical opening coaxially formed therein with a conical plug coaxially positioned within the conical opening. A biasing spring is coupled to the conical plug and the lower cylindrical plug for biasing the conical plug towards a closed position, the biasing spring positioned above the conical plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 8, 2018
    Inventor: Riaz Ahmed Sahi