Patents Issued in October 25, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180305972
    Abstract: A vacuum insulated glass unit comprises first and second glass panes, each defining interior and exterior surfaces and lateral edges. The interior surfaces of the panes are opposing and spaced apart to define an inter-pane gap. A band of metal solder extends continuously between the interior surfaces and continuously around the peripheries of the panes but is inset from the lateral edges, thus defining an inter-pane cavity surrounded by the solder band and a channel disposed between the band and the lateral edges. The solder band is attached with hermetic glass-to-metal bonds to the interior surfaces of the panes, whereby the cavity is hermetically sealed with respect to the panes. A plurality of stand-offs is disposed within the cavity and extends between the interior surfaces. An adhesive material is disposed within the channel, extending between the interior surfaces and structurally bonding the panes across the inter-pane gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: ASTRAVAC GLASS, INC.
    Inventors: DAVID H. STARK, SCOTT V. THOMSEN, JAMES E. ELLIS
  • Publication number: 20180305973
    Abstract: A method for forming a closed frame-shaped spacer for an insulating glass pane by applying a paste-like and subsequently hardening strand has at a beginning of the strand a ramp in which the thickness of the strand increases from zero to a nominal thickness. An end of the strand's thickness is complementary to the rising ramp on the same path, overlapping the ramp, decreasing from the target thickness to zero, the surface of the ramp forming an interface between the beginning and the end of the strand. The beginning and end of the strand are pressurized on either side by placing it between a first jaw and a second jaw. The exerting surface of the first jaw has a property enabling the material of the strand which comes into contact with the surface of the first jaw to be removed therefrom by lifting the first jaw from the strand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Peter Schuler
  • Publication number: 20180305974
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments relate to vacuum insulating glass units having edge seals formed in connection with solder alloys that, when reactively reflowed, wet metallic coatings pre-coated on the glass substrates' perimeters, and/or associated methods. The alloys may be based on materials that form seals at temperatures that will not de-temper glass and/or decompose a laminate, and/or remain hermetic and lack porous structures in their bulks. Example alloys may be based on inter-metallics of Sn and one or more materials selected from post-transition metals or metalloids; Zintl anions (e.g., In, Bi, etc.) from Group 13, 14, 15, or 16; and transition metals (e.g., Cu, Ag, Ni, etc.); and excludes Pb. Thin film coatings in certain example embodiments work with the solder material to form robust and durable hermetic interfaces. Because low temperatures are used, certain example embodiments can use compliant and visco-elastic spacer technology based on lamellar structures and/or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Vijayen S. VEERASAMY, Patricia TUCKER, Martin D. Bracamonte
  • Publication number: 20180305975
    Abstract: A gasket for an entryway is described that includes a compliant sealing portion having an uncompressed gasket thickness and a less compliant compression control portion having opposing exposed surfaces. A perimeter of the less compliant compression control portion is surrounded by the compliant sealing portion. A thickness of the less compliant compression control portion is less than the uncompressed gasket thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Endura Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Tomasz Jaskiewicz
  • Publication number: 20180305976
    Abstract: This electric screen device is provided with an electric motor that causes slidable screen mounting frame part(s) to automatically slide. Torque generated by rotation of a rotation shaft of the electric motor is transmitted to a tension member that is provided inside the screen mounting frame parts, that connects screen guiding frame parts to each other at free ends thereof, and that forms a loop. The tension member moves in a state of being hung around the folded portions which apply tension to the tension member. The slidable screen mounting frame part(s) automatically slide in association with movement of the tension member. Thus, the screen automatically opens and closes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: METACO, INC.
    Inventors: Yasubumi Okachi, Yuichiro Nishioka, Kazumasa Noda
  • Publication number: 20180305977
    Abstract: A closure locking design is presented that is more resistant to a displacement/dislodgement force. A closure end strip is fixed to a closure end and received by a closure guide first section. A rotatable tube and hook assembly run vertically within a closure guide second section. When rotated to a locking position a hook member of the tube and hook assembly rotates through a slot cut in the guide and through a cutout in the closure end strip to restrictively engage the closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: CIW Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Balay, Joseph L. Balay
  • Publication number: 20180305978
    Abstract: A window covering assembly includes a roller to which a window cover is attached and a motorized assembly. The motorized assembly imparts a force via a power transmission system to the roller, thereby causing the roller to rotate and the window covering to raise or lower. The roller and motorized assembly are modular and are not permanently joined to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: J. Porter Whitmire, Mark Huggins, Tanvi Singh, J. Luke Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20180305979
    Abstract: A window covering assembly includes one or more powered modules, such as a light, temperature sensor, fan, heater, or motion detector. The window covering assembly is configured so that the modules may be attached to the window covering assembly in numerous configurations, thus permitting tailored features of the window covering assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: J. Porter Whitmire, Mark Huggins, Tanvi Singh, J. Luke Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20180305980
    Abstract: Potential for remote interaction with various architectural features has increased dramatically with recent technological developments. For example, modular spaces may allow an occupant to quickly and effortlessly modify an existing space to the occupant's needs. One of the challenges of remotely operating devices is energy efficiency. An apparatus is described herein that addresses this issue. The apparatus may include a flexible panel, a roller tube, one or more mounting brackets, a braking mechanism, and a torsion spring. The torsion spring may be pre-torsioned with a number of rotations. The number of rotations may be determined by various formulas, and/or the apparatus may have a trough-shaped torque profile. This may minimize external energy requirements of the apparatus, such as by a motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox, Andrew Priddis, Jackson Priddis
  • Publication number: 20180305981
    Abstract: It is disclosed a nivellation device making it possible to place ladders horizontally on sloping ground. Such a device comprises a foundation (1) onto which there is secured/placed an elevated area (2), said elevated area (2) functioning as a fulcrum/see-sawing point for a plate (3) onto which plate (3) there may be placed or secured a ladder (I), and said plate 3 being equipped with securing devices (4) that may stay the position of the plate (3) in relation to the foundation (1). Additionally it is disclosed a tightening device for a wire that may be used for securing the nivellation device in a correct horizontal orientation and a device for ensuring that the ladder is not displaced in relation to a house wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Bendik Bø
  • Publication number: 20180305982
    Abstract: A top drive system is provided comprising a top drive, a torque tube, and a traveling block, wherein the torque tube is connected to the travelling block on one side and to the top drive on the other side. A method to install the top drive system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Brynjulv Aas
  • Publication number: 20180305983
    Abstract: A Buckling-resistant Sucker Rod for well pumps. The present invention comprises a sucker rod assembly in which the rod itself is held in tension between opposing fittings, and in which a sleeve surrounds the rod, occupying the space between the fittings. In one version, the buckling-resistant rod is assembled such that the end fittings are placed under tension prior to the installation of the sleeve, In another version, the sleeve is designed to be extendable until it places the rod segment under tension by pressing outwardly on the end fittings. Thus, the sleeve, or the combination of the sleeve and its extension, can absorb all compressive forces transmitted through the fittings, while the rod remains in a condition of tension. The invention enhances the efficiency of oil well operation, by using light-weight sucker rods, while minimizing down time due to breakage of the rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Megalex LLC
    Inventor: Mitchell Hale
  • Publication number: 20180305984
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include an apparatus for forming a tubular fitting includes an annular body having an axial height and radial thickness. The apparatus also includes an inner arm forming at least a portion of the annular body, the inner arm positioned at a first end of the annular body with an inner arm thickness that is less than the radial thickness. The apparatus includes an outer arm forming at least a portion of the annular body, the outer arm positioned at a second end of the annular body with an outer arm thickness that is less than the radial thickness. Also, the apparatus includes one or more self-limiting features that control movement of the inner arm and the outer arm relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Baozhi Zhu, Luke Andrew McElmurry, Daniel Barnhart, David L. Ford, Gregory Matthew Dunn
  • Publication number: 20180305985
    Abstract: A method of connecting an end part of a pipe attachment device to a part of a function element, includes: aligning longitudinal axes of a substantially tubular end part of a pipe attachment device and a substantially tubular part of a function element; applying a force that moves the end part of the pipe attachment device relatively towards the part of the function element along the longitudinal axis. Contact between the end part of the pipe attachment device and the part of the function element causes each of a plurality of fingers on the end part to elastically deflect. Applying the force so that each of the plurality of fingers on the end part returns from their deflected position and is retained in one or more holes in the part of the function element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Ace Oil Tools AS
    Inventors: Ken Erik Steine, Lasse Hetland, Morten Klausen
  • Publication number: 20180305986
    Abstract: Connectors and connection systems for connecting two tubing sections together are provided. The connectors can include: a first end having an outer surface and adapted for insertion into an end of the tubing section and a second end adapted for connection to a second connector. The connector can have an attachment block in one aspect with a first threaded aperture and a second threaded aperture passing through it so that axial screws and radial screws can secure the connector to the end of a tubing section before it is connected to another connector. In another aspect, the connector can have an attachment slot provided in an outer surface of the first end of the connector sized to fit a retaining clips so that axial screws can secure the connector to an end of a tubing section before the connector is connected to another connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Patrick Robert Derkacz, Justin Christopher Logan, Luke Anthony Stack, Gavin Gaw-Wae Lee, Aaron William Logan
  • Publication number: 20180305987
    Abstract: A downhole tool includes a circumferential band having a plurality of axially adjacent weld beads forming a wear resistant surface along a particular axial length of the tool and at least one circumferential multi-layer coating applied axially adjacent the band on either end. The multi-layer coating includes a first layer, exhibiting a first color, applied directly onto the tool surface, and a second wear-resistant layer, exhibiting a second color different from the first color, applied directly onto the first layer. The second layer wears or is removed by a certain amount, such that the first color of the first layer is revealed to indicate the extent of wear and/or that the tool should be removed from service and refurbished by applying a new wear-resistant coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: SUPERIOR SHOT PEENING, INC.
    Inventors: Van Blasingame, Albert Johnson
  • Publication number: 20180305988
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for retaining components in a downhole motor in the event of a mechanical separation or failure of one or more components therein. As described, the retention mechanism does not require a threaded connection to components of the mud motor drivetrain. Downhole motor assemblies including the new catch mechanism also include a structural element to engage the catch assembly and the components to which it is attached in the event of a mechanical failure within the mud motor assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Hossam Gharib, John Keith Savage
  • Publication number: 20180305989
    Abstract: System and methods for optimizing coiled tubing string configurations for drilling a wellbore are provided. A length of a rotatable segment of a coiled tubing string having rotatable and non-rotatable segments is estimated based on the physical properties of the rotatable segment. A friction factor for the rotatable segment is calculated based on the estimated length. An effective axial force for one or more points of interest along the non-rotatable and rotatable string segments is calculated, based in part on the friction factor. Upon determining that the effective axial force for at least one point of interest exceeds a predetermined maximum force threshold, an effective distributive friction factor is estimated for at least a portion of the non-rotatable segment of the string. The rotatable and non-rotatable string segments are redefined for one or more sections of the wellbore along a planned trajectory, based on the effective distributive friction factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Oluwafemi I. Oyedokun, Robello Samuel, Gareth M. Braund
  • Publication number: 20180305990
    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: June 28, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: ADVANCED TOOL AND SUPPLY, LLC
    Inventor: Bryan Duhon
  • Publication number: 20180305991
    Abstract: Methods for monitoring the movement of latch members using wireless sensors include receiving wireless sensor data that indicates the rate of movement of a latch member toward an open or closed position. Based on correspondence between the rate of movement and latch function data that associates movement rates with functionality and life expectancy of latch members, the health and useable life expectancy of the latch member may be estimated. Additionally, if the movement of the latch member does not fall within threshold minimum and maximum values, or if the movement of a latch does not correspond to a command, output indicating a malfunction may be generated or pipe moving operations associated with the latch member may be canceled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: HUBERT LEE RICE, II
  • Publication number: 20180305992
    Abstract: An improved flexible joint elastomer protection tool is described, which can be actuated and removed by a remote operated vehicle (“ROV”), the tool having pivot arms that can be rotated from a closed position to an open position. Rotation inward to the closed position results in the compression of the elastomeric component in an offshore flexible joint. Rotation outward to the open position results in the de-compression of the elastomeric component in an offshore flexible joint. Rotation of the arms can be accomplished using mechanical, hydraulic or other mechanisms that can be operated by an ROV.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: OIL STATES INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Inpeng Bouaphanh
  • Publication number: 20180305993
    Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to equipment utilized and operations performed in conjunction with a subterranean well and, in one example described below, more particularly provides for controlling the buoyancy in a monitoring apparatus disposed within the subterranean well. A monitoring apparatus for use in a well, the monitoring apparatus comprising: multiple segments interconnected to one another; a buoyancy control device disposed in at least one of the segments, wherein the buoyancy control device comprises: a reservoir comprising at least one chemical reactant for reacting to evolve a gas; and one or more ports configured to couple an interior volume of the buoyancy control device to an environment external to the buoyancy control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Perkins, Michael T. Pelletier
  • Publication number: 20180305994
    Abstract: A hydraulic anchoring assembly (10, 10a), and method of its use, for anchoring and sealing an insertable progressing cavity pump on rods in a well. The assembly (10, 10a) has one or more cup seals (42, 42a), upstream of one or more inflatable packers (14, 14a) upstream of one or more hydraulic slips (16). The cup seals (42, 42a) provide a pressure differential for inflation of the upstream most inflatable packer (14), which in turn provides a pressure differential for the downstream inflatable packer(s) (14a) to inflate to produce a fluid tight seal between the insertable progressing cavity pump and the well. In highly deviated wells the up seals (42, 42a) can be used to pump the hydraulic anchoring assembly (10, 10a) down the well in situations where the rods would otherwise buckle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: INFLATABLE PACKERS INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD
    Inventor: Francis John Guillena FORD
  • Publication number: 20180305995
    Abstract: A core barrel head assembly having at least one electronic instrument that is configured to obtain orientation data; a power source; and a communication means to receive and/or transmit orientation data for use in a core sample down hole surveying and sample orientation system that is configured to provide an indication of the orientation of a core sample relative to a body of material from which the core has been extracted, and also to a method of core sample orientation identification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: CHRISTOPHER L. DRENTH, GORDON STEWART, KHALED HEJLEH
  • Publication number: 20180305996
    Abstract: A sealing system for a flow channel comprises a mandrel; a swellable element disposed about the mandrel; and a degradable polymeric element disposed on a surface of the swellable element and configured to delay swelling of the swellable element; wherein the degradable polymeric element comprises one or more of the following: polyurethane; cured cyanate ester; an epoxy; polyimide; unsaturated polyester; or nylon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ping Duan, Anil Sadana, Wayne Furlan
  • Publication number: 20180305997
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a central shaft for a bridge plug, a bridge plug and a setting method for the bridge plug, and relates to the technical field of bridge plug. The present disclosure addresses the technical problems existing in the prior art that degradable plastics and degradable metal materials are unable to manufacture a bridge plug with a large inner diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Aimin Chen
  • Publication number: 20180305998
    Abstract: Examples of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for sealing a subterranean void in a wellbore. More specifically, embodiments relate to a device including an expandable material that is configured to be compressed in a first state while traveling through a wellbore and expanded in a second state to form a seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Hong Wang
  • Publication number: 20180305999
    Abstract: A system for control using a hydraulic fluid includes a hydraulic control line for flowing the hydraulic fluid, a fluid line in fluid communication with the hydraulic control line, a flow controller configured to regulate a flow of the hydraulic fluid in the fluid line, and a piezoelectric device in fluid communication with the hydraulic control line and configured to actuate the flow controller upon receiving a selected flow of the hydraulic fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jalpan Piyush Dave, Paul G. James, Pranay Asthana, Aswin Balasubramanian, Quanling Zheng
  • Publication number: 20180306000
    Abstract: A method of controlling fluid flow through a circulation valve disposed in a borehole includes flowing a fluid at a first flowrate through a first jet and a second jet disposed in a throughbore of a sliding sleeve disposed in a housing of the circulation valve, flowing the fluid at a second flowrate through the first jet and the second jet to actuate the sliding sleeve from a first position to a second position, and flowing the fluid from the throughbore of the sliding sleeve through a housing port of the housing in response to actuating the sliding sleeve from the first position to a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: DRLG Tools, LLC
    Inventor: Luc DEBOER
  • Publication number: 20180306001
    Abstract: A bridge plug deployed into a wellbore liner of a wellbore is described. The bridge plug includes a packing element and keys, which can be controllable expanded or retracted. The bridge plug is adapted to engage with a downhole tool and cause a sliding sleeve of the tool to open the tool port/s. The bridge plug is run-in on a wireline using a tractor that enables its displacement uphole or downhole. Also, the bridge plug is provided with sensors to monitor the operational parameters in the wellbore and communicate the measured parameters to the surface for enabling operators to monitor and control the downhole operation conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: DANIEL JON THEMIG
  • Publication number: 20180306002
    Abstract: An autonomous valve includes a fluid-sensitive actuator operable to automatically actuate the valve in response to being exposed to a target fluid. The target fluid may be a fluid whose presence is generally undesirable in a production fluid, such as water, and the valve may be actuated to stop flow from an interval within a wellbore that is no longer expected to produce hydrocarbon-bearing fluids. The valve further includes a protective layer disposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid-sensitive actuator, the protective layer being insoluble in the target fluid. The fluid-sensitive actuator may include a swellable piston that swells to actuate the valve in the presence of the target fluid, a soluble plug that isolates a hydraulic, closing piston until the soluble plug is dissolved into the target fluid, and an electromechanical actuator that closes the valve in response to detecting the target fluid using an electronic sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie R. Williamson, JR., Adam E. Beck
  • Publication number: 20180306003
    Abstract: A downhole tool (32) comprises a tool housing (34) defining a central bore (35) and including a fluid port (20), and a valve member (40) mounted within the housing (34) and being movable from a closed position in which the fluid port (20) is blocked to an open position in which the fluid port (20) is opened. The tool (32) further comprises a catching arrangement (41) mounted within the housing (34) and comprising one or more radially movable seat members (106), and being configurable from a free configuration in which the seat members (106) permit an object (48) to pass through the tool (32), to a catching configuration in which the seat members (106) catch an object (48) passing through the tool (32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Daniel George Purkis, Oliver Webster, Damien Gerard Patton, Matthew Manning, Steve Corbett, Ian Duncan, Santiago Galvez Porta
  • Publication number: 20180306004
    Abstract: System and methods are described that help to inhibit the formation of paraffin or wax within an oil well or pumping mechanism. Magnets can be integrated into a rod within the well tubing. The tubing can comprise metal portions such as bands or coils that can experience an induced electrical current as the rod magnets pass back and forth during pump operation. The induced electric current raises the temperature of fluids and materials in the well, inhibiting paraffin formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: John M. Raglin
  • Publication number: 20180306005
    Abstract: A system for cleaning a wellbore can include a bottom hole assembly that is designed to be run downhole into a wellbore after the wellbore has been drilled and before the wellbore has been cleaned. A control sub-assembly is mounted on and carried by the bottom hole assembly. The control sub-assembly is designed to be positioned within the wellbore. Multiple cleaning sub-assemblies are interchangeably mounted on and carried by the bottom hole assembly. Each cleaning sub-assembly is designed to be positioned within the wellbore. The multiple cleaning sub-assemblies include at least two of the following sub-assemblies: a scraping sub-assembly that scrapes an interior of the wellbore, a brushing sub-assembly that brushes the interior of the wellbore, or a magnetic sub-assembly that magnetically captures debris within the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Victor Carlos Costa De Oliveira, Mario Augusto Rivas Martinez, Khaled K. Abouelnaaj, Ossama Sehsah
  • Publication number: 20180306006
    Abstract: A method of treating a subterranean formation comprises forming a storable aqueous suspension comprising a carrier fluid, a superabsorbent polymer, a proppant the proppant being suspended in the carrier fluid as a substantially perfectly supported particulate; diluting the storable aqueous suspension in-line to a desired concentration; and introducing the diluted storable aqueous suspension into the subterranean formation. A sand control method is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Baker Hughes, a GE company, LLC
    Inventors: D.V. Satyanarayana Gupta, Scott G. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20180306007
    Abstract: This disclosure includes embodiments of a subsea open standard (SOS) control system and methods of operating and expanding the same that are suitable for controlling subsea production equipment directly from a topsides master control station (MCS). For example, this disclosure includes a network using an open and non-propriety networking protocol to send and receive control commands directly between the MCS and a subsea networked end device having a unique network address via a subsea network router module (SRM).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Darren MORRISON, Mark ERICKSON
  • Publication number: 20180306008
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for decreasing pressure of drilling fluid within a region between an impeller and a housing of a power generation module (PGM). The apparatus comprises a shaft extending from and rotatable relative to the housing; The impeller is coupled with the shaft external to the housing and includes a group of blades that rotate the impeller as the drilling fluid flows past the PGM. The impeller further includes another group of blades that decrease the pressure of the drilling fluid within the region between the impeller and the housing when the impeller is rotating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Vianney Rubio, Andrew Parry
  • Publication number: 20180306009
    Abstract: The present invention includes (a) dividing the reservoir in a coalbed methane (CBM) development area through computer modeling and thereby forming a three-dimensional grids having a plurality of cell, (b) actually forming drilling holes in the development area and thereby obtaining core samples for each depth, (c) modeling the amounts of ash, water, and gas in each of the cells, (d) modeling the pressure change over time in each of the cells under a premise in which a production well is formed in the grids, and (e) performing a Langmuir experiment for the core samples, determining a Langmuir function for a maximum amount of gas adsorption with pressure and amounts of ash and water as variables, and applying the Langmuir function to each of the cells to calculate an amount of gas detected due to pressure change over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Kihong Kim, Jeong-Min Han, Youngseok So, Il oh Kang, Junwoo Seo
  • Publication number: 20180306010
    Abstract: A perforating tool assembly may be modularized by providing modular charge segments to provide for multiple configurations of shaped charges without the requirement of excess inventory. The modular charge segments may comprise any number of modular charge holder segments and modular charge spacer segments which are configured to provide for different spacings and offsets of shaped charges disposed within the modular charge holder segments. The modular charge holder segments include slots and locking tabs to allow for the differing offsets between charges. The modular charge holder segments may comprise a slit that allows the modular holder segment to be flexed or deflected to permit the loading and downloading of shaped charges. The modular charge segments may comprise a plastic or rubber material to provide for safer deployment of shaped charges downhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Scott Randall Von Kaenel, Richard Ellis Robey
  • Publication number: 20180306011
    Abstract: A hydraulic oil well pumping system is provided. The system uses a pump to exert hydraulic pressure against a reciprocating piston over a wellbore. The piston is connected to a rod string and downhole pump for pumping oil from a wellbore. The system includes an electronic control system that controls movement of the piston as it moves between the upper and lower rod positions by cycling the hydraulic system between (i) an “upstroke” condition wherein the pump is pumping oil through the oil line into the hydraulic cylinder to move the piston to its upper rod position, and (ii) a “neutral” condition wherein the pump is no longer pumping oil into the hydraulic cylinder, but is allowing oil to flow back through the oil line in response to gravitational fall of the piston. The control system is programmed to cycle based upon a volumetric calculation of hydraulic oil in the cylinder without reference to position sensors along the wellhead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Hydraulic Rod Pumps, International
    Inventors: Christopher M. Hodges, Lance A. Mehegan, Timothy L. Hankerd, Nathan Terry, Walter Phillips
  • Publication number: 20180306012
    Abstract: A lube and bleed casing adapter and related systems and methods are provided for a lubricate and bleed operation in a wellbore where heavy fluids are directly deposited downwell. The casing adapter allows a hose to be positioned downwell and to be operably connected to a tank of heavy fluid. Once, the heavy fluid is deposited, the casing adapter receives lighter fluids from the wellbore, and the casing adapter is operably connected to a return tank that stores lighter fluids. As a result, the casing adapter and related systems and methods save time as the heavy fluid does not need to sink downwell before the lighter fluid rises upward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Bryce Elliott Randle
  • Publication number: 20180306013
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for generating a schedule for fluid placement. A computer-implemented method may include determining, for each zone of a plurality of zones of a treatment interval to be treated by the fluids placement system, a criterion value based on a heterogeneity parameter of the zone, sorting the zones into an ordered sequence based on the criterion value associated with each zone, and generating a schedule that designates an order of treating the zones in accordance with the order of the sequence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Chaitanya Mallikarjun Karale, Rama Subba Reddy Thavva
  • Publication number: 20180306014
    Abstract: Methods including introducing a solids-free high-viscosity fracturing fluid into a subterranean formation above the fracture gradient to create or enhance at least one dominate fracture. Introducing a first low-viscosity pad fluid (LVPadF) above the fracture gradient to create or enhance at least one first microfracture extending from the dominate fracture. The first LVPadF comprises an aqueous base fluid, high-density micro-proppants (HDMPs), and low-density micro-beads (LDMBs), the HDMPs having a specific gravity that is at least about 100% greater than the specific gravity of the LDMBs. Placing at least a portion of the HDMPs and LDMBs into the microfracture to form at least a partial monolayer. Introducing a low-viscosity proppant fluid (LVPropF) into the subterranean formation above the fracture gradient. The LVPropF comprises an aqueous base fluid and medium-sized proppants (MSPs). Placing at least a portion of the MSPs into the dominate fracture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Philip D. NGUYEN, Ronald Glen DUSTERHOFT, Matthew Lewis LAHMAN, Aaron Gene RUSSELL
  • Publication number: 20180306015
    Abstract: An illustrative hydraulic fracturing flow simulation system includes: a data acquisition module collecting measurements from a subterranean formation; a processing module implementing a hydraulic fracturing simulation method; and a visualization module that displays the time-dependent spatial distribution. The simulation method includes: deriving from the measurements a network of fractures having junctions where two or more fractures intersect; ordering a set of corner points associated with each junction; calculating a junction area from each set of corner points; determining a current state that includes flow parameter values at discrete points arranged along the fractures in said network; constructing a set of linear equations for deriving a subsequent state from the current state while accounting for said junction areas; and repeatedly solving the set of linear equations to obtain a sequence of subsequent states, the sequence embodying a time-dependent spatial distribution of at least one flow parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Dinesh Ananda SHETTY, Avi LIN
  • Publication number: 20180306016
    Abstract: A method can include receiving stimulation treatment scenario definitions for stimulation treatment of a reservoir that includes hydrocarbons; receiving reservoir data; receiving imagery data of a proppant pack; generating a model of the proppant pack based at least in part on the imagery data; simulating physical phenomena associated with a plurality of the stimulation treatment scenarios based at least in part on the model to generate simulation results; and, based at least in part on the simulation results, selecting parameter values for a stimulation treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Sergey Safonov, Dean Willberg, Marina Bulova, Oleg Dinariev
  • Publication number: 20180306017
    Abstract: A method to reduce water production into a wellbore from a subterranean formation that includes placing a blocking material into the subterranean formation, forming at least one radially-oriented borehole exiting the wellbore at between 45 to about 90 degrees from the wellbore into the subterranean formation, and producing hydrocarbons through the at least one radially-oriented borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: James M Savage
  • Publication number: 20180306018
    Abstract: A modular skid mounted oil production system, comprising multiple skid sections that are connectable via alignment pins coupled to the skid beam structure. The alignment pins having a fork connector that is connected to a knife connector. When the skid sections are connected, the piping, electrical, and pneumatic tubing connectors are connectable to the other corresponding skid piping, electrical, and pneumatic tubing connectors without the need for welding or field construction of connecting components. The modular skid oil production system is capable of expansion or contraction as required by the operation of the system. For example the system includes removing a skid section having a larger separator and replacing it with a skid section having a smaller separator, without the need of welding or field construction of connecting components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventor: Michael RENICK
  • Publication number: 20180306019
    Abstract: A reservoir fluid production system for producing reservoir fluid from a subterranean formation is provided for mitigating gas interference by effecting downhole separation of a gaseous phase from reservoir fluids, while mitigating entrainment of liquid hydrocarbon material within the gaseous phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey Charles Saponja, Robbie Singh Hari, Tim Keith, Shawn Duego
  • Publication number: 20180306020
    Abstract: There is provided apparatuses, and related systems, for effecting production of oil from a reservoir. A separator is provided and configured to mitigate problems with solid debris accumulation within the wellbore. A system is also provided, including the separator, and is disposed within a wellbore. A pump is also provided, and disposed in fluid communication with, and downstream from, the separator, for receiving reservoir fluids from which gaseous and solid material have been separated by the separator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey Charles Saponja, Robbie Singh Hari
  • Publication number: 20180306021
    Abstract: A system for recovery of gas trapped by fluid and particulate matter in a gas or oil well includes a device having a body defining a cavity with a cap at its upper end and an opening for entry of fluid at its bottom end, a lower valve for controlling flow of fluid into the cavity and an upper valve for controlling flow of the fluid and suspended solids out of the cavity. The cap has a plurality of lines passing therethrough and into the cavity, which includes a gas line for providing a stream of pressurized gas to push downward on fluid in the cavity in a compression stroke which closes the lower valve and opens the upper valve. The gas line is used to exhaust contained gas from the cavity. An effluent line allows exit of the fluid and suspended solids during the compression stroke. A probe line provides electrical power to a pair of probes for initiating and halting entry of the stream of pressurized gas into the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Publication date: October 25, 2018
    Applicant: OPTIMUM PETROLEUM SERVICES INC.
    Inventor: James G. GETTIS