Patents Issued in June 25, 2019
  • Patent number: 10329829
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides an opening/closing detection device, including: a plurality of sensors configured to be arranged along a predetermined portion of a mark attached to a vehicle; and a control unit configured to output an action trigger signal for instructing an opening action of an opening/closing body of the vehicle when detection signals representing a trace order of the predetermined portion are input from the plurality of sensors that detect an order of a motion of tracing the predetermined portion of the mark by a user of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignees: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Seika Matsui, Takeshi Katsuda, Satoru Ishizaki, Yuji Nishi
  • Patent number: 10329830
    Abstract: A portable, universally fitting, stylish, lockable security box that integrally affixes to an object such as the support or cross bar on a frame of a beach lounge chair, a stroller, bike or similar member where it is desirable to protect your valuables on a stationary or a larger movable object. The security box is a device preferably comprised of a main top component having a solar panel thereon and a main bottom component which are hinged together and able to be securely closed by a RFID locking mechanism. When the security box is positioned over an elongate object, such as the support bar of a chair, stroller or other object, the security box can be affixed to the elongate object by employing an integral hasp or integral locking mechanism to close the security box around the support object, such that the support object extends through the security box by passing through specially configured openings in the security box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventors: Robert Michael Peck, Jonathan Bradley Kinas, Avin Samtani
  • Patent number: 10329831
    Abstract: A laminated glass retention system for securing a laminated glass subassembly within a window sash or frame member or door panel or similar component includes a retention member applied to the laminated glass subassembly. The retention member generally can include a leg portion that engages of the laminated glass subassembly, and can further include a base portion that is coupled to the frame member in which the laminated glass subassembly is seated. The retention member helps retain the insulating glass subassembly within its frame member when subjected to high winds and wind-borne debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Andersen Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Weiss, Clifford W. MacDonald, Loren M. Jacot, Joseph Guy Reithmeyer, James Guhl, Duane Fier, Scott Thom
  • Patent number: 10329832
    Abstract: This invention describes a process flow and method to assemble triple IG units without contaminating the center glass lite. A non-contact vacuum pad is used to lift a glass lite off from a horizontal or vertical support that conveys it from a glass washer to an assembly station. Each of multiple pads has a capacity to lift approximately seven to ten pounds. Use of multiple pads per glass sheet or lite allows lites having dimensions up to 70 by 100 inches (assuming glass thickness of one quarter inch) to be assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: GED Integrated Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Briese, John Grismer, Timothy B. McGlinchy
  • Patent number: 10329833
    Abstract: The fire-protection glazing includes at least two glass panes, between which a transparent layer of a fire-protection layer is arranged, wherein the fire-protection layer includes a hydrogel. The educts of the fire-protection layer include water-soluble, non-toxic monofunctional monomers in an acid environment as well as at least one bifunctional or polyfunctional monomer and, as the case may be, an initiator, in an aqueous salt solution or in an aqueous salt dispersion. The monofunctional and the bifunctional or polyfunctional monomers are not toxic, not carcinogenic and not mutagenic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS FRANCE
    Inventors: David Te Strake, Udo Gelderie
  • Patent number: 10329834
    Abstract: A weatherseal has a stiffener and a foam profile. A first portion of the foam profile is connected to the stiffener. A second portion of the foam profile is joined to the first portion at a hinge. The first and second foam profile portions have inner surfaces facing substantially towards each other and outer surfaces facing substantially away from each other. The foam profile defines at least one continuous elongate lumen. A portion of the foam profile has a resin coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Amesbury Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Mertinooke, John Huntress
  • Patent number: 10329835
    Abstract: An inflatable, window-covering system is described. The inflatable, window-covering system may include an inflatable cushion and a drive assembly, the drive assembly including a power source; one or more sensors, where the one or more sensors may be configured to detect a triggering event; and an air pump configured to inflate the inflatable cushion based, at least in part, on the detected triggering event. In some cases, the triggering event may include any of sensing a predetermined temperature, sensing a predetermined level of light intensity, sensing a predetermined time, or receiving an instruction, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventor: Conrad Geyser
  • Patent number: 10329836
    Abstract: A window covering includes a positional adjustment mechanism connected to a first rail that includes a spring motor unit, a first lift cord pulley connected to the spring motor unit, a first lift cord collection mechanism having a first roller positioned in the first rail, and a first lift cord that extends from the first lift cord pulley through window covering material such that a portion of the first lift cord passes along the first roller. The first roller is configured so that it only rotates a pre-selected number of revolutions when the window covering material is moved from the extended position to the retracted such that the first roller no longer rotates in the second rotational direction as the window covering material is moved from an extended position to a retracted position after having rotated the pre-selected number of revolutions in the second rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Whole Space Industries LTD
    Inventor: Tzu-Yen Lin
  • Patent number: 10329837
    Abstract: A roller shade assembly comprising a roller tube having an inner surface defining an axial bore, a spindle including an outer threaded portion defining a helical groove, the spindle configured to be received in the axial bore of the roller tube for axial movement in the roller tube at one end roller tube and at least one tracking element operatively associated with the roller tube, the at least one tracking element configured for riding in the helical groove to convert axial rotation of roller tube into axial movement of the roller tube on the support tube. The tracking element engages the helical groove from a position more proximal to one end of the roller tube. The starting axial position of the roller tube in relation to the support tube is configured to be adjustable by manually rotating the spindle without rotating the support tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: AUTO-MOTION SHADE INC.
    Inventor: Hans Grützner
  • Patent number: 10329838
    Abstract: A smart window controller includes circuitry configured to establish a representative model of one or more building zones based on occupancy, construction, lighting, or cooling properties of a building. A lighting control strategy is implemented for the one or more building zones based on the representative model or one or more user preferences input at a first user interface screen of an external device. Automatic operations of one or more smart windows, cooling systems, or artificial lighting systems are controlled based on trigger points associated with the lighting control strategy, and a performance level of the lighting control strategy for the one or more building zones is determined based on one or more predetermined financial metrics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventors: Mohammed Abdul Fasi, Ismail Mohammad Budaiwi
  • Patent number: 10329839
    Abstract: A smart window controller includes circuitry configured to establish a representative model of one or more building zones based on occupancy, construction, lighting, or cooling properties of a building. A lighting control strategy is implemented for the one or more building zones based on the representative model or one or more user preferences input at a first user interface screen of an external device. Automatic operations of one or more smart windows, cooling systems, or artifcial lighting systems are controlled based on trigger points associated with the lighting control strategy, and a performance level of the lighting control strategy for the one or more building zones is determined based on one or more predetermined financial metrics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventors: Mohammed Abdul Fasi, Ismail Mohammad Budaiwi
  • Patent number: 10329840
    Abstract: An operating mechanism is provided for a screen assembly having an elongate endless pull cord hanging from the screen assembly in a loop. The operating mechanism has a housing having an opening at an upper end thereof. At least a lower portion of the pull cord can pass into the housing to be enclosed therein. A guide means for guiding passage of the pull cord through the housing. The guide means has a locking means adapted to selectively restrain first or second sides of a loop defined by the pull cord. The guide means includes a cord-retaining member engaging a lower end of the looped pull cord. The cord-retaining member is moveable within the housing between vertically spaced first and second positions, the second position being above the first position, the cord-retaining member being biased towards the first position by biasing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Fourds Limited
    Inventor: Cormac Diamond
  • Patent number: 10329841
    Abstract: A method for removal of a top drive device in a wellbore drilling installation, e.g. for servicing and/or exchanging a top drive device. The frame of the trolley and the top drive device are provided with cooperating vertical guide members so that the top drive device is vertically displaceable and guided relative to the frame. The top drive device has an operative position above the rotatable head clamp assembly carrier, which is releasably connected to first and second vertical frame members. In order to service and/or exchange of the top drive device, the method includes releasing the rotatable head clamp assembly carrier from the first and second frame members, removing the rotatable head clamp assembly carrier, lowering the top drive device relative to the frame of the trolley until the cooperating vertical guide members thereof disengage, moving the lowered and disengaged top drive device to a service and/or storage location remote from the firing line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: ITREC B.V.
    Inventors: Pieter Dirk Melis Van Duivendijk, Diederick Bernardus Wijning, Nicolaas Thijs Pieter Max, Jasper Hendrik Frank Bakker, Adriaan Van Swieten, Joop Roodenburg
  • Patent number: 10329842
    Abstract: A wellbore or other type of hole in a geologic formation or other material, such as concrete or other manmade structures, may be formed by accelerating perforating charges containing detonable material through a tubular string. Movement of a fluid, such as drilling mud, may be used to transport perforating charges to a bottom hole assembly. In the bottom hole assembly, a propellant material may be used to accelerate the perforating charges, such as by using a ram acceleration mechanism. The perforating charges may be shaped to at least partially penetrate a surface of the hole. Detonation of the perforating charge may displace, stress, or fracture the geologic material. Movement of the fluid may remove displaced geologic material and detonated material from the perforating charge from the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: HYPERSCIENCES, INC.
    Inventor: Mark C. Russell
  • Patent number: 10329843
    Abstract: A drill bit includes a shank having a threaded coupling formed at an upper end thereof; a bit body mounted to a lower end of the shank and having a plenum; a gage section forming an outer portion of the drill bit; a cutting face forming a lower end of the drill bit and including: a core receptacle formed at a center of the cutting face, operable to receive a core of earth, and including: a concave core cutter mounted to a bottom of the bit body; and a core port extending from the plenum through the bottom of the bit body and operable to discharge drilling fluid onto the core and core cutter; a plurality of blades protruding from a bottom of the bit body and extending from a periphery of the core receptacle to the gage section; and a plurality of leading cutters mounted along each blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: VAREL EUROPE S.A.S.
    Inventors: Sebastien Reboul, Bruno Cuillier De Maindreville, Alfazazi Dourfaye, Gilles Gallego
  • Patent number: 10329844
    Abstract: An anchor rod multi-section reaming machine tool and an application thereof are provided. The machine tool is used cooperatively with an anchor rod drill rig. A hydraulic cylinder is fixed at a lower end of a drill rod of the anchor rod drill rig. A lower end of the piston rod is fixed at an upper portion of an arch pressing device fixing disc. An arch pressing device comprises a pair of upper arch arms and a pair of lower arch arms, upper ends of the upper arch arms are rotatably connected with a central position of a lower portion of the arch pressing device fixing disc, lower ends of the upper arch arms are rotatably connected with upper ends of the lower arch arms, and lower ends of the lower arch arms are rotatably connected with a central position of an upper portion of a base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: HONGYUAN ZHONGKE FOUNDATION ENGINEERING (BEIJING) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chunlong Wang, Chunhu Wang
  • Patent number: 10329845
    Abstract: A multi-layer downhole drilling tool designed for drilling a wellbore including a plurality of formations includes a bit body and a plurality of primary blades and secondary blades with respective leading surfaces on exterior portions of the bit body. The drilling tool further includes a plurality of first layer cutting elements and second layer cutting elements located on the leading surfaces of the primary blades and secondary blades, respectively. Each second layer cutting element is under-exposed with respect to the corresponding first layer cutting element. The amount of under-exposure is selected according to each second layer cutting element having an initial critical depth of cut greater than an actual depth of cut for a first drilling distance and a critical depth of cut equal to zero at a target drilling depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Shilin Chen
  • Patent number: 10329846
    Abstract: A downhole drilling tool designed for drilling a wellbore is disclosed. The drilling tool includes a bit body and a first plurality of blades and a second plurality of blades on exterior portions of the bit body. A first group of track-set cutting elements is on exterior portions of the first plurality of blades and a second group of track-set cutting elements is on the second plurality of blades. The first and second plurality of blades and the first group and second group of track-set cutting elements cooperate with each other to form a composite bit face profile such that each respective group of at least three neighbor cutting elements on the composite bite face profile is force balanced with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Shilin Chen
  • Patent number: 10329847
    Abstract: A cutter for a downhole bit includes a first face oriented in the direction of rotation of the bit and a second face oriented toward the borehole wall. A substrate supports the first face and second face and the substrate is received in a recess of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Ulterra Drilling Technologies, L.P.
    Inventor: Ryan K. Matthews
  • Patent number: 10329848
    Abstract: A super hard polycrystalline construction comprises a body of polycrystalline super hard material, said body having an exposed working surface, a substrate attached to the body of polycrystalline super hard material along an interface and a plurality of apertures or channels. One or more of said apertures or channels extend(s) from the exposed working surface of the body into the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: ELEMENT SIX (UK) LIMITED
    Inventors: Maweja Kasonde, Mehmet Serdar Ozbayraktar, Valentine Kanyanta, Teresa Rodriguez Suarez
  • Patent number: 10329849
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-functional drilling experiment platform, which consists of a gantry, a hydraulic cylinder, a power swivel and a platform base. The gantry mainly realizes the control of the drill string during the drilling-in process. In order to simulate the vertical well, the inclined well, and the horizontal well, the drilling machine needs to rotate between 0° and 90°. The rotation of the gantry is realized by the extension and contraction of the hydraulic cylinder. The platform base is used to set up the gantry and the hydraulic cylinder, bearing the pulling, pressing and twisting loads of drilling experiments. Also, the platform base can move along the track to achieve different types of experiments. The multi-functional drilling experiment platform of the present invention realizes the load simulation experiment of the drilling machine at different angles using the gantry and the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: SOUTHWEST PETROLEUM UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jialin Tian, Zhi Zhu, Ping Chen, Dejie Chen, Yanniu Ren, Qiang Wang
  • Patent number: 10329850
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: ONESUBSEA IP UK LIMITED
    Inventor: Joseph Allan Nicholson
  • Patent number: 10329851
    Abstract: A sub, downhole tool, and method for manufacturing thereof, are disclosed. The sub may include one or more flow channels, each of which may be defined in part by a longitudinal groove formed along an exterior of a collar. One or more flow channel cover may be connected to the collar. The longitudinal grooves position the flow channels further outward to provide more volume within the collar that may be used for housing one or more devices. Upper and lower blind bores are fluidly coupled to the longitudinal grooves by angled through bores to complete the flow channels. A medial bore, which may be fluidly isolated from the flow channels, may be provided to house a device, such as an instrument, detector, or circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Cull, Stephen Daniel Lloyd, David James Laban
  • Patent number: 10329852
    Abstract: An offshore well system for a subsea well includes an internal riser tension device configured to apply tension to an internal riser and an external riser tension device configured to apply tension to an external riser such that the external riser is supported at least partially independent of the internal riser tension device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: William Puccio, David Cain, Vijay A. Cheruvu, Shian Jiun Chou
  • Patent number: 10329853
    Abstract: A motion compensator system for use on a floating vessel including a compensator cylinder assembly, a guide cylinder assembly, an upper carriage affixed to an upper end of both cylinder assemblies, a lower carriage affixed to a lower end of both cylinder assemblies, and a safety shutoff assembly. The compensator cylinder assembly includes three or more compensator cylinders. The safety shutoff assembly includes a compensator manifold and three or more compensator valves. Each compensator valve is in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source through the compensator manifold and in fluid communication with a lower chamber of one of the compensator cylinders. The safety shutoff assembly is configured to isolate a failed compensator cylinder by setting the associated compensator valve to a vent setting and continuing normal operation of the remaining compensator cylinders. The motion compensator system optionally includes a lock system for securing the system in a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventors: Bryan Duhon, Yury Remedio
  • Patent number: 10329854
    Abstract: A tubular transfer system comprising a boom structure having a first frame telescopically coupled to a second frame. A first actuator is configured to extend and retract the first frame relative to the second frame. A clamp mechanism is coupled to the first frame and configured to grip and lift a tubular. A second actuator is configured to raise and lower the clamp mechanism relative to the first frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: FORUM US, INC.
    Inventors: Rogelio Rios, Robert Arlen Holifield, Robert Dugal, Justin Wayne Triplett
  • Patent number: 10329855
    Abstract: A control line assembly and technique for fabricating the control line assembly are disclosed. The assembly includes drawn tubular segments through which a gas is flowed to purge contaminants. The outflow of contaminants due to the gas flow is monitored and the gas flow can be controlled and terminated when a sufficient quantity of contaminants has been extracted. The gas flow can be combined with a heat treatment cycle to further extract contaminants. The heat treatment cycle can include multiple heating stages that can be controlled based on the monitoring of the exiting contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Dominic Joseph Brady, Gary Oddie
  • Patent number: 10329856
    Abstract: A downhole communication system has a plurality of repeaters adapted to store segments of logging-while-tripping (LWT) data during tripping. The LWT data are transmitted to the repeaters during tripping and then read out from the repeaters at the surface. The segments and repeaters are read using one or more surface communication devices, such as a rack board, a stand verifier, a box cap, or a pin cap, each adapted to access and test segments of wired drill pipe each having one or more repeaters. The rack board includes an array of communication couplers that are each adapted to exchange signals with a pin coupler of a pipe segment. In turn, each communication coupler is connected with communication equipment adapted to process and display data stored in the one or more repeaters of the pipe segments during tripping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: Manfred G. Prammer
  • Patent number: 10329857
    Abstract: Methods for making a threaded connection between an upper tubular and a lower tubular using an oilfield tubular spinner and a torque wrench, including holding the lower tubular with the torque wrench, frictionally engaging the upper tubular with the tubular spinner, operating a motor of the tubular spinner to spin-in and shoulder-up a tubular connection between the upper tubular and the lower tubular, establishing a threshold hydraulic system pressure that indicates a shouldered-up condition, monitoring, with a detection system, a hydraulic system pressure of the motor during spin-in and shoulder-up, and maintaining the threshold hydraulic system pressure to operate the motor for a selected period of time after the threshold hydraulic system pressure is reached. An oilfield tubular spinner for an oilfield tubular wrench is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: NABORS DRILLING TECHNOLOGIES USA, INC.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Hunter
  • Patent number: 10329858
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of petroleum extraction equipment, and discloses a coiled tubing unit, which comprises a vehicle body (T), a control cab (30), a coiled tubing reel (10) configured to wind coiled tubing, and a power skid (20) configured to supply power to the coiled tubing reel (10) and transported separately, wherein, the coiled tubing reel (10) and the control cab (30) are mounted on the vehicle body (T). With the coiled tubing unit provided in the present invention, the total length and total weight of the vehicle body on which the coiled tubing reel is mounted are smaller and can meet the requirements for transportation in regions where smaller vehicle dimensions and weight are specified for transportation when coiled tubing in large diameter and/or great length is transported, and the coiled tubing unit is adaptive to the operating habits, and can be deployed flexibly so that it can be used in a well field where the space is limited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: JIANGHAN MACHINERY RESEARCH INSTITUTE LIMITED COMP
    Inventors: Huiqun He, Gao Yang, Shoujun Liu, Xuehui Li, Ge Xiong, Shibin Zhang, Jun Hao, Heping Cao, Wenyi Duan, Zhiqiang Hu, Jiafu Yan, Zhimin Yang, Fei Liu, Zhongcheng Zhou
  • Patent number: 10329859
    Abstract: Methods of treating a subterranean formation with treatment fluids containing novel fluid loss control additives comprising alkylpolyglucoside derivatives for treatment fluids are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise providing a treatment fluid comprising an emulsion comprising an oleaginous phase and a non-oleaginous phase, a fluid loss control additive comprising an alkylpolyglucoside derivative; introducing the treatment fluid into a wellbore. Fluid loss control additives, drilling fluids, and systems suitable for use therewith are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Nivika Rajendra Gupta, Sharad Bhimrao Gotmukle
  • Patent number: 10329860
    Abstract: A method of drilling a subsea wellbore includes drilling the subsea wellbore and, while drilling the subsea wellbore: measuring a flow rate of the drilling fluid injected into a tubular string; measuring a flow rate of returns; comparing the returns flow rate to the drilling fluid flow rate to detect a kick by a formation being drilled; and exerting backpressure on the returns using a first variable choke valve. The method further includes, in response to detecting the kick: closing a blowout preventer of a subsea pressure control assembly (PCA) against the tubular string; and diverting the flow of returns from the PCA, through a choke line having a second variable choke valve, and through the first variable choke valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Said Boutalbi, Michael Brian Grayson
  • Patent number: 10329861
    Abstract: System and methods for engaging and disengaging running tools with a liner in a downhole system are described herein. The system and methods include a liner disposed in a borehole, the liner having at least one running tool engagement section, a running tool disposed within the liner, the running tool having at least one engagement module that is operable from a disengaged position to an engaged position and that is operable from an engaged position to a disengaged position, and an electronic device disposed at least one of in or on the engagement module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Carsten Weckend, Heiko Eggers, Fabian Mau, Henning Melles, Ingo Roders, Henning Rahn, Frauke Osterkamp
  • Patent number: 10329862
    Abstract: A coiled adaptive seat is held to a smaller diameter for delivery with a tool that can feature a locating lug for desired alignment of the seat with an intended groove in the inner wall of a tubular. The release tool retracts a cover from the seat allowing its diameter to increase as it enters a groove. Alternatively the adaptive seat is released near the groove and pushed axially in the string to the groove for fixation. Once in the groove the inside diameter of the string is a support for a blocking object so that sequential treatment of parts of a zone can be accomplished. The blocking object is removed with pressure, dissolving, milling or disintegration leaving a narrow ledge in the tubular bore from the seat that can simply be left in place or milled as well. An E4#10 from Baker Hughes is modified for adaptive seat delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventor: Stephen L. Crow
  • Patent number: 10329863
    Abstract: An automatic drilling apparatus having a tool body, a motive device connected to the tool body, and a drill bit connected to the tool body. The apparatus also includes a setting tool connected to the body, at least one sensor disposed on the tool body, and a computer disposed in the tool body, wherein the computer is configured to actuate the motive device, the drill bit, the setting tool, and the at least one sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: A&O TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventor: Alejandro Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 10329864
    Abstract: A connector assembly configured to join a first tubular member to a second tubular member of a mineral extraction system includes a first annular body, a second annular body, and at least one fastener extending through the first annular body and threadably coupled to the second annular body. A sealed space is defined between the at least one fastener and the first annular body. The connector assembly also includes a lock ring configured to contact the first annular body and the second annular body. A fluid pressure within the sealed space is configured to drive the first annular body and the second annular body toward one another, thereby driving the lock ring radially inwardly to engage the second tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10329865
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus, system and method that may provide a power supply for engaging blowout preventer rams to secure a subsea well bore of a subsea drilling system supply which is independent of the conventional control systems, shuttle valves, seals and plumbing of the conventional control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Reel Power Licensing Corp.
    Inventor: Benton Frederick Baugh
  • Patent number: 10329866
    Abstract: A tool for use in a wellbore that includes a mandrel having an interior and an exterior with a plurality of keyed ring members along the exterior of the mandrel having an external line that runs the length of the tool. The tool may include a packing element positioned between at least a first keyed ring member and a keyed second ring member. A line is run between the exterior of the mandrel and an interior of the packing element, through an inner bore of the first ring, and through an inner bore of the second ring. Key members may be removed from the ring members to permit the insertion of the line through the packer system. The key members may be removed to removal of a ring component from the packer system. The key members and ring component enable a tool to be constructed onsite at a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Baker Hughes, a GE company, LLC
    Inventors: Clifford Thomas Frazee, Frank J. Maenza
  • Patent number: 10329867
    Abstract: There is provided a plurality of injection stations, wherein each one of the injection stations, independently, comprising: a housing; a port extending through the housing; a flow control member configured for displacement for effecting at least opening of the port such that, when the injection station is integrated within a wellbore string that is disposed within a wellbore of a subterranean formation, and treatment fluid is being supplied through a wellbore string passage of the wellbore string, injection of the supplied treatment fluid into the subterranean formation is effected through the port; and a deployable seat, mounted to the housing, and including an aperture, and configured such that, when the seat is deployed in a deployed position, the seat is configured for receiving a respective plug for seating of the respective plug over the aperture of the seat; such that a plurality of plugs are respective to the injection stations, wherein each one of the plugs is respective to a deployable seat of a one
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: NCS Multistage Inc.
    Inventors: Don Getzlaf, Tim Johnson, Brock Gillis
  • Patent number: 10329868
    Abstract: An articulated debris barrier folds on itself to extend radially to span a surrounding annular gap when the tool associated with it is set. The debris barrier can be used with a packer or bridge plug. The set position of the packer or plug is locked and another lock holds the extended position of the debris barrier. The debris barrier lock can be a snap ring that extends into a groove brought into alignment with it during the setting. Alternatively the lock for the debris barrier can be a body lock ring. In either case, release and retrieval of the packer or plug involves undermining of the locking feature for the debris barrier so that the debris barrier can extend while retracting from the borehole wall so that the barrier and the associated packer or plug can be removed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Limb, Frank J. Maenza, Nicholas S. Conner, Robert J. Taylor, Gary L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 10329869
    Abstract: A tool is provided for use in closing and sealing the cased bore of a well to be abandoned. The tool is run into the bore, the tool having a stack of pleated rings slidably mounted on a tubular mandrel. The tool is engaged with the casing and a charge of hot asphaltic sealant is discharged from a conveyed container to flood the stack and tool annulus. The stack is compressed axially to partly flatten and radially expand the rings to frictionally engage the surrounding casing, the rings and sealant sealing the bore. Further, the rings can expand the heated casing for sealing casing/cement interfaces. The sealant solidifies and creates an impermeable mass sealing against surfaces of the mandrel, stack and casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: WINTERHAWK WELL ABANDONMENT LTD.
    Inventor: Dale Kunz
  • Patent number: 10329870
    Abstract: A backup ring assembly has a base ring to support the plastically deformed extrusion barrier when the packer sealing element is set. The base ring has a thin walled tapered extending ring out of the base ring and into the direction of the sealing element. The sealing element fills the annular gap volume between an upper taper on the extending ring and the body of the backup ring such that on setting the pressure internally in the seal material helps to apply a force in a direction toward the mandrel and for the full circumference of the mandrel. This force and the flexibility of the extending ring helps push the extending ring toward the mandrel outer surface to close extrusion gaps between the mandrel and the base ring of the backup ring assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: YingQing Xu, Guijun Deng
  • Patent number: 10329871
    Abstract: A method of protecting a component in a wet environment includes disposing a component into a wet environment, deploying a granulated disintegrable material into the wet environment and temporarily covering a portion of the component with the granulated disintegrable material, at least partially disintegrating the granulated disintegrable material, and flushing the granulated disintegrable material away from the portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: James King, Marc Samuelson
  • Patent number: 10329872
    Abstract: Apparatus, in the form of a eutectic alloy plug (1) and a deployment heater (10) are provided. The plug (1) and the deployment heated (10) are provided with means (5, 13) for releasably retaining the deployment heater (10) within a cavity (4) in the plug (1). The nature of the retaining means is such that once the plug (1) is secured in a well the heater (10) can be recovered without the plug (1). An extraction heater (20), which is also receivable within the cavity (4) of the plug (1), is provided to re-melt the eutectic alloy and thus enable the extraction of the plug from a well. Various method of plugging abandoned wells are made possible by the control that the provided apparatus gives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: BiSN Tec Ltd
    Inventors: Paul Carragher, Leo Richards
  • Patent number: 10329873
    Abstract: A method for cementing a tubular member within a subterranean wellbore extending from a surface into a subterranean formation and through a hydrocarbon reservoir includes (a) injecting a gas from the surface into an annulus surrounding the tubular member within the wellbore. In addition, the method includes (b) flowing cement through a throughbore of the tubular member. Further, the method includes (c) displacing the cement from the throughbore of the tubular member into the annulus. Still further, the method includes (d) reducing a pressure of the gas in the annulus during (c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: EOG RESOURCES, INC.
    Inventor: James C. Mullen, II
  • Patent number: 10329874
    Abstract: A safety valve handling apparatus for a well operation rig includes: a mounting structure for connection to the rig; a clamp for engaging a safety valve and configured to permit rotation of the safety valve within the clamp while the safety valve remains engaged by the clamp; and an arm connected between the mounting structure and the clamp, the arm being movable and adjustable to permit movement of the clamp relative to the mounting structure. The safety valve handling apparatus can be used for controlled safety valve handling on a well operation rig, even one oriented for a slanted operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: PROSTAR ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES (USA) LLC
    Inventors: Adam Wright, Daniel Harvard Kusler
  • Patent number: 10329875
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring valve operation. In one embodiment, an apparatus for monitoring valve operation includes a first acoustic sensor and a monitoring system. The first acoustic sensor is to couple to a valve to detect vibration of the valve. The monitoring system is communicatively coupled to the first acoustic sensor. The monitoring system is configured to receive a signal generated by the first acoustic sensor. The signal is representative of vibration of the valve. The monitoring system is also configured to identify leakage in the valve based on the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Salvador Reyes, III, Mark Saunders, Kody Carrillo, Andrew Jaffrey
  • Patent number: 10329876
    Abstract: A technique facilitates valve operations in many applications including well related applications. A valve utilizes a piston which moves along an arc. The valve has an outer housing and an inner housing spaced to create an arcuate pressure chamber which extends along the arc. A piston is mounted in the arcuate pressure chamber for movement along the arc. A hydraulic force or other force may be selectively applied directly against an end of the arcuate piston to shift the arcuate piston along the arc. In some applications, the piston comprises a cutting edge oriented to enable performance of a cutting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gary L. Rytlewski, David Carter Allensworth
  • Patent number: 10329877
    Abstract: A downhole tool includes a body, a mandrel slidably disposed in the body, a piston for moving the mandrel relative to the body, and a lock having a first configuration which permits movement of the mandrel by the piston and a second configuration which provides a fluid lock across the mandrel which prevents movement of the mandrel by the piston. The lock includes first and second fluid chambers filled with a substantially incompressible fluid and a control valve configurable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the control valve in the closed configuration providing the fluid lock preventing movement of the mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Hydralock Systems Limited
    Inventors: Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson, Michael Wardley
  • Patent number: 10329878
    Abstract: A downhole valve system includes a downhole valve positionable in a wellbore and a downhole valve actuator coupled to the downhole valve. An annulus is defined between the downhole valve and the wellbore. The downhole valve actuator includes a pressure chamber that encloses a pressurized fluid at a particular pressure and a breakable member. The downhole valve actuator is adjustable to a first position to close the downhole valve when the particular pressure is greater than an annulus pressure at a first pressure in the annulus, and the downhole valve actuator is adjustable to a second position to lock the downhole valve in an open position independent of the relative values of the particular pressure and the annulus pressure, with the annulus pressure set at a second pressure greater than the first pressure to break the breakable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul David Ringgenberg