Patents Issued in December 15, 2020
  • Patent number: 10865572
    Abstract: A building is constructed by providing a subfloor and forming a hole in the subfloor. A hole protector includes a cylinder, a skirt disposed around the cylinder, and a cap disposed on the cylinder. The hole protector is disposed over the hole with the cylinder extending into the hole. The hole protector is fastened to the subfloor. The cap is removed from the hole protector. An MPE is disposed through the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Dima Building Innovators LLC
    Inventors: Manuel Altero-Marquez, David Cruz, Issael Altero-Marquez, Andres Sandoval, Aaron Watson
  • Patent number: 10865573
    Abstract: A hand held combined tool for drywall taping including a drywall tape applicator attached to a smoothening blade is described. The dry wall tape applicator includes a gated protrusion for feeding a dry wall tape through a ridged slot and to be held securely in position by a user before dipping the dry wall tape in a joint compound container to coat the dry wall tape with the joint compound on both side of the dry wall tape. The user then pulls the dry wall tape through the gated protrusion and the ridged slot to obtain a uniformly dual side coated drywall tape ready to be placed on a joint and to be immediately smoothened with the smoothening blade attached to the dry wall tape applicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: John Verhaar
  • Patent number: 10865574
    Abstract: The platform includes a base support that can be clamped to a boat railing and extendable support arms that support a work platform. Methods of manufacturing the platform are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Joaquin Speaks
  • Patent number: 10865575
    Abstract: A bracket scaffold for arrangement on a curved surface of a structure includes a first securing element arranged on the structure. The bracket scaffold has an end-side first coupling element which is, in particular in a limited manner, pivotably arranged on a first carrier of the bracket scaffold. A rotation axis of the first coupling element preferably intersects with the support location of the first coupling element on the first securing element. The pivot radius of the first coupling element describes in particular a concave pivot arc on the first carrier. The rotation axis is located from the first guide preferably in the direction of the free end of the first coupling element. Extension torques in the articulation, which is formed by the first guide, are minimized by the bracket scaffold being pulled away from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: PERI GMBH
    Inventor: Josef Schmid
  • Patent number: 10865576
    Abstract: The scaffold securing clip and strap comprises a ratchet strap, a scaffolding jib and a bracket. The scaffold securing clip and strap is configured for use with a stanchion. The ratchet strap attaches the scaffolding jib to the stanchion. The bracket attaches the scaffolding jib to the stanchion. A first instantiation of the scaffold securing clip and strap works in conjunction with a second instantiation of the scaffold securing clip and strap to support one or more planks. Specifically, the scaffolding jib of the first instantiation and the scaffolding jib of the second instantiation combine to raise one or more planks to an elevation above a supporting surface of the stanchions to which the first instantiation and the second instantiation are attached. The elevated one or more planks form a raised horizontal surface capable of supporting a load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventors: Kenneth Kats, Edward Deleon
  • Patent number: 10865577
    Abstract: A fastening unit for attaching a first beam to a second beam is provided, wherein the second beam is arranged substantially perpendicularly to the first beam, the fastening unit having a first axis and a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The fastening unit comprises a connecting member extending in a direction parallel to the first axis of the fastening unit and having a first edge portion, a second edge portion and a central portion, the connecting member further comprising a coupling element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Mon.Zon Development AB
    Inventors: Johan Lindberg, Lars Carlbom
  • Patent number: 10865578
    Abstract: A telescoping extendable boom and a foldable telescoping extendable boom for transporting an item, are disclosed. The foldable telescoping extendable boom having tubular elements (12) and (14) and (15, 17, 18, 19) and (20) each arranged with a longitudinally extending track (25, 29) inside the tubular element. Each longitudinally extending track (25, 29) supports a single shuttle (26) and (30) respectively, internally inside its tubular element (17) and (15), respectively, for movement therealong. Each shuttle (26) and (30) is equipped with a clamp (27) and (30) to selectively clamp the item (298). The longitudinally extending tracks (25, 29) of immediately connecting telescoping tubular elements (17) and (15) are located opposite each other. The inner tubular elements inside said telescoping extendable boom are arranged at their near ends to allow their shuttles to access shuttles of outer tubular elements to enable the clamps (27) and (31) thereof to transfer a said item (298) therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Mark Pivac
  • Patent number: 10865579
    Abstract: A cover for a spa includes a first cover member and a second cover member hingedly connected to one another about a seam. The cover further includes a sleeve associated with of one of the cover members at an approximate midpoint between an outer edge of the cover member and the seam. The sleeve is configured to receive a connecting rod of a lifting mechanism therethrough for transmitting an uncovering and/or covering force from the lifting mechanism to the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: STRONG INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Wade Spicer, Charles Woods, Ryan Force
  • Patent number: 10865580
    Abstract: An artificially-lighted waterfall fixture apparatus includes a fixture housing having a lower housing part and an upper housing part overlying and fitted with the lower housing part so as to define a water-distributing channel and a passageway extending forwardly from and in communication with the water-distributing channel to receive a flow of water therefrom and produce an artificial waterfall flowing from an outlet of the passageway. The apparatus also includes an elongated baffle disposed in the fixture housing along a top portion of the water-distributing channel to receive and convert the flow of water to a laminar flow through the passageway, and an artificial light-focusing module supported centrally in the fixture housing proximate the water-distributing channel and aligned with the passageway so as to generate a beam of light through the passageway that produces a predetermined configuration of light in the laminar flow of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: WATER WORKS TECHNOLOGIES GROUP, LLC
    Inventors: David W. Elder, Clynton Doyle, Kevin Doyle
  • Patent number: 10865581
    Abstract: Swimming pool cleaners may operate autonomously within pools and spas. The cleaners need not include any external hoses or cords, and their bodies may be oriented at pool waterlines so as to make their on-board filters readily accessible for removal. The cleaners may dock at docking stations for various purposes, including (but not limited to) for charging any on-board battery and communicating electronically with the docking station or other external equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL CARE EUROPE
    Inventors: Arnaud Lancry, Simon Duffaut, Remi Deloche, Louis Favie, Philippe Pichon
  • Patent number: 10865582
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a flashing system is provided for fortifying seams between a first blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module and a second blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module. The system includes a first side flashing assembly for fortifying a first side seam between the first blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module and the second blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module, a top flashing assembly for fortifying a top seam between the first blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module and the second blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module, and a second side flashing assembly for fortifying a second side seam between the first blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module and the second blast, ballistic, and forced entry resistant shelter module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
    Inventors: Justin M Roberts, Craig R Ackerman
  • Patent number: 10865583
    Abstract: A land-based drilling rig includes a first substructure and a second substructure, the second substructure being positioned generally parallel to the first substructure. The land-based drilling rig also includes a drill rig floor coupled to the first and second substructures, the drill rig floor including a V-door. The side of the drill rig floor has the V-door defining a V-door side of the drill rig floor, where the V-door side of the drill rig floor is parallel to the first substructure. The first and second substructures pivotably support the drill rig floor. The land-based drilling rig also includes a mast, the mast mechanically coupled to one or more of the first substructure, the second substructure, and the drill rig floor. The mast is pivotably coupled to one or more of the first substructure, the second substructure, and the drill rig floor by a mast pivot point. The mast includes a V-door side, the V-door side of the mast parallel to the first or second substructure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: NABORS DRILLING TECHNOLOGIES USA, INC.
    Inventors: Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta
  • Patent number: 10865584
    Abstract: A portable ground blind having a plurality of pole-supported dual-mesh panels with openings formed along bottom sides of one or more of said panels, providing optimized concealment for the user, while also enhancing the user's ability to see and engage potential targets at multiple locations around the user. The dual-mesh panels include an outer mesh webbing and an inner mesh webbing, the outer mesh webbing having mesh openings of larger size than the mesh openings of the inner mesh webbing. Ghillie threads and/or other concealment enhancement objects are attachable on the outer mesh webbing, increasing the overall concealment of the user and allowing the user to customize the nature of concealment of the portable ground blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Ethan Hulsey
  • Patent number: 10865585
    Abstract: The subject matter described herein includes a tube for use in creating a support for a roof line of a structure. The tube comprises an inner flexible bladder, a seamless woven cylinder formed from fibers woven to form a seamless tubular arch shape when the cylinder is inflated, the cylinder engaged with the flexible bladder, and an outer weather shield coating engaged with the cylinder, wherein, in operation a plurality of tubes are used to form the roof line of a structure to define a housing for containing an article, wherein the plurality of tubes maintains flexibility so that the plurality of tubes can be inflated, deflated, and re-deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Textum Weaving, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Crawford, Jr., John N. Pepin
  • Patent number: 10865586
    Abstract: A door, a door module therefor, and a method of constructing a door for a motor vehicle is provided. The door module includes a carrier; an electrical latch secured to the carrier, and a latch control system. The latch control system has an inside micro-switch operably connected to the electrical latch via an inner electrical connector, and an outside micro-switch operably connected to the electrical latch via an outer electrical connector. Electrical communication between the electrical latch and latch control system, initiated via selective actuation of the inside and outside micro-switches, provides full normal operation of a vehicle door without need for mechanical linkages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: MAGNA CLOSURES INC.
    Inventor: Mario Magazzini
  • Patent number: 10865587
    Abstract: A deadbolt securing assembly includes a restraint that has a rounded portion being positionable around a stem of a doorknob on a door. The restraint has a rhombus portion that is spaced from the rounded portion. The rhombus portion is positionable around a deadbolt knob on the door when the rounded portion is positioned around the stem of the doorknob. Thus, the restraint inhibits the deadbolt knob from being rotated when the restraint is positioned between the doorknob and the deadbolt knob. In this way the restraint inhibits the door from being unlocked with a key. A doorknob pad is coupled to the rounded portion of the restraint to frictionally engage the stem of the doorknob. A deadbolt pad is coupled to the rhombus portion of the restraint to frictionally engage the deadbolt knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventors: Joseph Russell, Valerie Russell
  • Patent number: 10865588
    Abstract: A sliding door includes a panel configured to slide along a path; a holding member including an abutting portion and defining a channel configured for receiving therein at least a segment of the panel; and a stop member being displaceable between an engaged state in which a first end of the stop member engages the abutting portion and a second end of the stop member engages the segment thereby precluding sliding of the panel in a direction away from the holding member and a disengaged state in which the stop member allows sliding of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Dan Raz Ltd.
    Inventor: Amir Raz
  • Patent number: 10865589
    Abstract: A motor vehicle door latch is equipped with a locking mechanism including a catch and a pawl, a release element for the locking mechanism, and a memory element that effects an unimpeded opening movement of the catch from a closed to an open position and maintains the release element in an ineffective position in respect of the locking mechanism during the opening movement of the catch. The memory element includes at least two components with a control lever and a blocking lever interacting with the release element located thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Kiekert AG
    Inventors: Robert S. Pettengill, Robert J. Hunt
  • Patent number: 10865590
    Abstract: A method for detecting the approach and/or contact of a user's hand close to a motor vehicle door handle. The handle including: an electrode having a capacitance, and a device for measuring the variation in capacitance, a low-frequency antenna situated close to the electrode, the emissions of the low-frequency antenna bringing about disturbances in the operation of the device for measuring the variation in the capacitance. The method proposes that a new adaptive approach detection threshold be calculated, depending on an average of the previous measured variations in the capacitance, calculated over a predetermined time interval, the measured variations being weighted by a factor depending on a difference between each measured variation and the average of the variations calculated previously over a previous predetermined time interval, the approach detection being confirmed if the measured variation is higher than the new adaptive threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventors: Gabriel Spick, Olivier Gerardiere, Carlos Eduardo Rodrigues
  • Patent number: 10865591
    Abstract: An emergency release system is disclosed for use with a side door of an automobile. The emergency release system may include a latch, a cable, and a handle connected to the latch via the cable. The handle may be pivotal through a first range to a stop, translatable to surmount the stop, and pivotal through a second range after surmounting the stop to release the latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: FARADAY & FUTURE INC.
    Inventors: Chris McCarthy, Cian John Francis Brogan
  • Patent number: 10865592
    Abstract: A sash window fastener includes: a latch assembly; a sash lock assembly mounted upon the meeting rail; and a stop member mounted to the master window frame. The lock assembly includes a pivotable cam to engage a keeper on the master frame to lock the window, and a pivotable follower arm. The arm interconnects with the latch assembly within the meeting rail, so cam rotation that drives arm rotation also causes translation of the latch. The cam may occupy: an extended position to secure the cam to the keeper, with the latch engaging the master frame to prevent tilting, and being positioned below a protrusion on the stop member to redundantly lock the window; a first retracted cam position permitting sliding of the window; and a second retracted position permitting tilting of the sash window. Additional protrusions may be used on the stop member to serve as vent stop positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: VISION INDUSTRIES GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Luke Liang, David Chen, Glen Paesano
  • Patent number: 10865593
    Abstract: A door guard assembly is provided comprising: a first part that is attachable to a door; a second part that is attachable to a door frame; an elongate member; a slidable plate that comprises a receiving means; wherein the first part and/or the second part and/or the elongate member further comprise(s) a dampening means; and, wherein the elongate member is attached to the first part or the second part and in use can be engaged with the receiving means of the plate located on the other first or second part respectively when the plate is slid into an operating position such that the receiving means engages the outer surface of the elongate member as the door is opened and the receiving means and elongate member thus limit the opening of the door, and the dampening means absorbs an impact force that may be applied to the door whose opening has been limited in this way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Patrick John Doherty
  • Patent number: 10865594
    Abstract: A shower enclosure sliding door mechanism (1) includes a first member provided on a door (3) of a shower enclosure, and a second member provided on a frame (5) of the shower enclosure, the first and second members slidably engaged with each other such that a first bearing surface (33) of the first member slidably engages a second bearing surface (27) of the second member. The first bearing surface is formed from a first low friction material and the second bearing surface is formed from a second low friction material, such that a low friction interface is formed between the first member and the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventors: José Luis Beltrán Romero, Adolfo Placencia Mendia
  • Patent number: 10865595
    Abstract: Certain embodiments relate to a hold-open assembly for a door closer including a pinion operable to rotate in a closing direction and an opposite opening direction. The hold-open assembly includes a ratchet wheel, a pawl, a controller, and a driver. The ratchet wheel is structured to be mounted to the pinion for joint rotation therewith. The pawl has an engaged position in which the pawl prevents rotation of the ratchet wheel in the closing direction, and has a disengaged position in which the pawl permits rotation of the ratchet wheel in both the opening direction and the closing direction. The controller is operable to determine a release condition and is configured to transmit a release signal in response to determining the release condition. The driver is configured to move the pawl from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to the release signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventor: Michael D. Coleman
  • Patent number: 10865596
    Abstract: A damping device includes a housing, a piston and a controller. The housing defines a chamber filled with a damping medium. The piston is movable in the chamber and includes a passage for allowing the damping medium to pass through. The controller includes a control member and a resilient member. The control member is capable of being moved toward the passage of the piston or closing a portion or all portions of the passage of the piston in response to a speed of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignees: KING SLIDE WORKS CO., LTD., KING SLIDE TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD.
    Inventors: Ken-Ching Chen, Hsiu-Chiang Liang, Chun-Chiang Wang
  • Patent number: 10865597
    Abstract: A damping device includes a housing and a piston. The housing has an inner wall, and a chamber is defined by the inner wall. The chamber has a damping medium filled therewith. The piston is movable in the chamber, wherein the inner wall has a plurality of inner diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignees: KING SLIDE WORKS CO., LTD., KING SLIDE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ken-Ching Chen, Hsiu-Chiang Liang, Chun-Chiang Wang
  • Patent number: 10865598
    Abstract: Hinged window drive systems and window assemblies incorporating them provide for a combination of powered or motorized operation in addition to manual operation using a hand crank, with the opportunity for a user to switch between motorized operation and manual operation as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Andersen Corporation
    Inventors: Chad Wernlund, David Plummer
  • Patent number: 10865599
    Abstract: A seal assembly for use with a door within a frame of a galley of an aircraft includes a seal configured to be movably coupled to the door and a seal holder holding the seal. The seal assembly includes a biasing mechanism coupled to the seal holder and configured to hold the seal in an open position by applying a biasing force to the seal holder. An activation mechanism is operably coupled to the seal holder that overcomes the biasing force to move the seal from the open position to a sealed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Thomas Joseph Moran, Wayne Joseph Stanley
  • Patent number: 10865600
    Abstract: A window blind includes a first rail, a second rail, a plurality of slats, a modulation mechanism, and an adjustment unit. The modulation mechanism includes a modulation shaft which can drive two warps of the ladder tape to make a relative movement in a vertical direction, whereby to modulate the slats to turn. When the slats are turned from a first position to a second position, the adjustment unit moves a rear cord which is used to move the second rail, whereby to change a length of a segment of the rear cord between a bottom edge of the first rail and a top edge of the second rail. In this way, the second rail could be turned along with the slats which are driven by the modulation shaft, and the problem of light leakage could be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: De-Jun Zhang, Lin Chen, Keng-Hao Nien
  • Patent number: 10865601
    Abstract: A window covering includes a fixed rail, a covering material, a lifting cord and a winding mechanism, wherein the covering material is positioned under the fixed rail, and the winding mechanism includes a reel, a rotating member and a stopper. The reel is adapted to wind up or release the lifting cord, in order to drive the covering material to move toward the fixed rail to fold, or to move away from the fixed rail to unfold. The rotating member passes through the reel. The stopper is operably pivoted relative to the rotating member. When the rotating member rotates independently from the reel, the stopper is driven to pivot, and is protruded from a surface of the rotating member, and the stopper would abut against a block of the fixed rail to stop the rotation of the rotating member. Therefore, when a covering material of the window covering is unfolded and meets an obstacle, the covering material could stop unfolding automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jian Zeng, Keng-Hao Nien
  • Patent number: 10865602
    Abstract: A ladder stabilization support assembly for lateral and vertical stabilization support to ladders in general and long span extension ladders in particular preventing the ladders from lateral movement such as tipping, overturning or slipping off the supporting grounds. The assembly is built to take advantage of a light-weight t-slotted aluminum profile and comprises two telescopic support legs pivotally mounted on opposite sides of a ladder to effectively support and level the ladder on any uneven supporting grounds. An adjustable sliding mechanism provides for a smooth, low tolerance and wobble-free telescopic sliding function with numerous length adjustments positions. A pivot joint provides for endless number of pivotal and swivel adjustment positions. The assembly can quickly and easily be mounted onto the ladder, remain permanently attached to the ladder or be taken off the ladder when not in use. The assembly also allows extension ladders to operate in a self-supporting stand-alone mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Jacob Varshavsky
  • Patent number: 10865603
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Jae-Mun Park
  • Patent number: 10865604
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments include an optical fiber having a graphene coating, a method to apply a graphene coating onto an optical fiber, and a fiber optic cable having a graphene coating. In one embodiment, the optical fiber includes an optical core that extends along a longitudinal axis. The optical fiber also includes a carbon based coating that covers the optical core along the longitudinal axis. The optical fiber also includes a layer of graphene formed on a first surface of the carbon based coating. The layer of graphene is formed from a laser induction process that includes focusing a laser beam at the carbon based coating to photothermally convert the first surface of the carbon based coating into graphene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Satyan Gopal Bhongale, Daniel Joshua Stark, Etienne Samson, Li Gao
  • Patent number: 10865605
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path is designed to produce alternating primary and secondary vortices—one clockwise and one counter-clockwise—where the primary vortex is stronger and produces higher backpressure than the secondary vortex. This in turn generates alternating weak and strong pressure pulses in the drill string. The weak pulses may be barely perceptible so that the effective frequency of the pulses is determined by the stronger primary vortices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 10865606
    Abstract: A downhole centralizer operable to be coupled with a tool string and conveyed within a downhole passage, wherein the downhole passage is a wellbore or a tubular member disposed in the wellbore. The downhole centralizer may have a plurality of arms that are operable to move against a sidewall of the downhole passage to centralize at least a portion of the tool string within the downhole passage, impart an intended force against the sidewall of the downhole passage, and maintain the intended force substantially constant while the tool string is conveyed along the downhole passage and an inner diameter of the downhole passage changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: IMPACT SELECTOR INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: James Patrick Massey, Brandon Martin
  • Patent number: 10865607
    Abstract: A tubular assembly for a well system includes a drill pipe joint including a first pair of couplers disposed at ends thereof and a central passage, a flow sub configured to couple with the drill pipe joint, wherein the flow sub includes a second pair of couplers disposed at each end thereof and a first receptacle disposed therein, a first inner tubular member configured to be suspended from the first receptacle of the flow sub, wherein the first inner tubular member extends through the passage of the drill pipe joint forming an annulus therein when the drill pipe joint is coupled to the flow sub and the first inner tubular member is suspended from the first receptacle of the flow sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Kryn Petroleum Services LLC
    Inventor: Luc Deboer
  • Patent number: 10865608
    Abstract: A mobile offshore drilling unit is converted to provide drilling, completion and workover access to multiple dry tree wells from a drilling derrick to allow production and export of oil and gas from high pressure, high temperature reservoirs in deep offshore waters. Existing practice has been for the drilling derrick on a production platform supporting dry tree wells to be moved over a fixed well slot. The present invention provides a movable wellbay that supports multiple top-tensioned subsea well tieback risers, which may be positioned directly below the derrick's rotary table and/or beneath another operating device. The use of top-tensioned subsea well tieback risers supported by the movable wellbay allows the converted facility to drill, complete, maintain, improve and produce from subsea wells through dry trees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: FRONTIER DEEPWATER APPRAISAL SOLUTIONS LLC
    Inventors: Roy B. Shilling, III, Charles N. White, Howard Day
  • Patent number: 10865609
    Abstract: A drilling rig system for obtaining high trip rates separates the transport of tubular stands in and out of their setback position into a first function, delivery and retrieval of tubular stands in well center position as a second function; and the functions intersect at a stand hand-off position where tubular stands are set down for exchange between tubular handling equipment. A drilling rig has a tubular delivery arm that vertically translates the mast in a non-conflicting path with a top drive. The tubular delivery arm is operable to deliver tubular stands between a catwalk, stand hand-off, mousehole, and/or well center positions. An upper racking arm moves tubular stands between a racked position in the racking module and a stand hand-off position between the mast and racking module. An upper support constraint stabilizes tubular stands at the stand hand-off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Melvin Alan Orr, Mark W. Trevithick, Joe Rodeny Berry, Robert W. Metz
  • Patent number: 10865610
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method for the implementation of a flexible tubular structure made of reformable composite material, designed for passing from a first folded configuration to a second longitudinally developed operating configuration using a tapered profile slidingly engageable inside the tubular structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: ENI S.p.A.
    Inventors: Stefano Carminati, Domenico Antonio Di Renzo, Mauro Favaretto, Massimo Zampato
  • Patent number: 10865611
    Abstract: A vertical cuttings dryer (“VCD”) can be used to separate solid particulate from entrained liquid. In some examples, the VCD includes a screen mounted coaxially with an internal wiper housing that carriers a wiper sweeping out an annular space between the screen and wiper housing. The VCD may have a first motor connected through drive shaft to the screen and a second motor connect through a separate drive shaft to the wiper housing. A controller can independently control the speed of the first motor and the second motor to independently a magnitude of centrifugal force applied to material being processed as well as a residence time of the material being processed in the annular space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Elgin Separation Solutions Industrials, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Rai Anderson, Emad Tariq Babri
  • Patent number: 10865612
    Abstract: A valve system utilizable with a downhole tool or pulsation assembly for controlling the assembly to reduce friction on a drill string by generating pressure pulsations. The system can include a mandrel cap, and a valve. The valve can include a first end section, a valve bore defined along a longitudinal axis therethrough, one or more ports defined laterally through a sidewall of the valve and in communication with the valve bore, and a second end section defining one or more cavity sections in communication with the valve bore. At least a portion of the valve can be receivable in the cap bore, and the valve bore can be configured to receive fluid from the sub bore or the drill string. The cavity sections can be configured between an open position allowing fluid to pass therethrough and a closed position preventing fluid to pass therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Talal Elfar
  • Patent number: 10865613
    Abstract: A method of latching a production tubing to a packer in a wellbore, an assembly, and a connection, of which the method includes lowering the production tubing into the wellbore, the production tubing being coupled to a first body comprising a slot and a blocking member. The production tubing is lowered until a lug on a second body contacts the blocking member, the second body being coupled to a packer. The method includes raising the production tubing relative to the packer which causes the lug to move out of contact with the blocking member, lowering the production tubing into the wellbore again until the lug contacts and removes the blocking member, and rotating the production tubing such that the lug advances into the slot, so as to latch the production tubing and the packer together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: INNOVEX DOWNHOLE SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Steven Hughes, Leonard Neatherlin
  • Patent number: 10865614
    Abstract: Systems and methods include an extreme range anchor, having extending assemblies configured to engage a wellbore, for providing a self-centering, reusable anchor location within a wellbore. The extending assemblies include a first set of arms connected to a first brace, a second set of arms connected to a second brace, and a set of footplates. Each footplate in the set of footplates is connected to the first set of arms and the second set of arms. Each footplate includes a fixator coupled to a radially external face and configured to securely engage the wellbore. The system also includes a pull rod rigidly coupled to the first brace and slidably connected to the second brace. Forcing the pull rod in an axial direction shortens a distance between the first brace and the second brace and forces the set of footplates to move in a radial direction toward the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Robertson Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Robertson, Antony F. Grattan, Douglas J. Streibich, Cory L. Huggins
  • Patent number: 10865615
    Abstract: An apparatus for delivering tools within a drill string may include an instrument line including a mechanically resistant external structure with an internal cavity. The instrument line may be configured to be deployed into the drill string. The apparatus may include one or more isolated wires positioned within the internal cavity. The apparatus may also include one or more tools removably coupled to the instrument line and positionable within the drill string. The one or more tools may be configured to provide measurements of conditions within a wellbore via the one or more isolated wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Jacques Orban
  • Patent number: 10865616
    Abstract: A system is disclosed as including an enclosed space within a seal for sealing an area between a hanger and a housing of a wellhead. The enclosed space traverses a first section of the seal, a middle section of the seal, and an opening at a second section of the seal. A port is provided as accessible from the housing. A tool positions the seal within the hanger and the housing so that the port is able to access the enclosed space from the housing to the hanger. A pressure applicator applies fluid into the port at a pressure, which is monitored to determine integrity of the seal. In a monitoring mode, a pressure is monitored at the port. A change in the pressure from an ambient pressure at the port may indicate an on-going issue with the seal. Methods applied to the system are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Ingram, Gregory Dunn, Alejandro C. Martinez
  • Patent number: 10865617
    Abstract: A one-way energy retaining device including a body, at least a portion of which comprises a degradable material; a protrusion extending radially from the body that allows movement of the device along a separate structure in a first direction and prevents movement along the separate structure in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Guijun Deng, Lei Zhao, Zhihui Zhang, Zhiyue Xu
  • Patent number: 10865618
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for filling and sealing a chamber with fluid at a predetermined pressure in a well bore. In a downhole assembly (10) comprising a tubular body (14) having a cylindrical throughbore (18) and a chamber (16) to be filled on an outer surface (26) of the body, a fill mechanism is provided to control fluid flow between the throughbore and the chamber. The fill mechanism includes a sliding seal (72) arrangement at the outer surface which is operated by the fluid flow in the throughbore to allow fluid flow into the chamber and then seal the chamber. Embodiments are described where the chamber is between a morphable sleeve (64) and the outer surface of the tubular, filling of the chamber morphs the sleeve and sealing the chamber at a predetermined fluid pressure secures the tubular within a borehole, creates an annular seal across an annulus or centralizes the tubing within a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Duncan James Meikle
  • Patent number: 10865619
    Abstract: A method of plugging a well in a plug and abandonment procedure includes providing a tubing in a wellbore, in a location for a well plug, the tubing is provided with an internal cable section placed inside of the tubing, and forming a plug in the well in said location for the well plug across the width of the tubing and a surrounding wellbore annulus to create a permanent barrier without pulling the tubing from the wellbore. The step of forming the plug includes substantially removing the internal cable section inside the tubing and forming a fluid-tight seal in the tubing where the internal cable section has been removed, for separating, on either side of the seal, first and second fluid volumes of the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: STATOIL PETROLEUM AS
    Inventors: Pål Viggo Hemmingsen, Gjermund Grimsbo
  • Patent number: 10865620
    Abstract: Method and systems for sealing a lost circulation zone of a subterranean well include extending a drill string into the subterranean well, the drill string having an ultraviolet system, an actuator, and a fluid flow path. The actuator is instructed to transmit an on signal to the ultraviolet system to switch the ultraviolet system to an on condition. In the on condition the ultraviolet system generates ultraviolet light directed towards the fluid flow path of the drill string. A loss circulation material is delivered into the fluid flow path of the drill string, the loss circulation material having an oligomer, a monomer, and a photo-initiator. The loss circulation material is exposed to the ultraviolet light to activate the loss circulation material. The loss circulation material is delivered to the lost circulation zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Jothibasu Ramasamy, Chinthaka Pasan Gooneratne
  • Patent number: 10865621
    Abstract: A method can include positioning a tubular string in a riser string including an outer housing of a pressure control device and an annular seal operable to prevent flow through an annulus between the tubular and riser strings, the tubular string including an equalization valve and a running tool operable to convey a releasable assembly of the pressure control device through the riser string, and opening the equalization valve, thereby permitting fluid communication between the annulus and a flow passage extending longitudinally through the tubular string. A system can include a riser string including an annular blowout preventer with an annular seal, a tubular string including a running tool and an equalization valve releasably attachable to a releasable assembly including an annular seal, and the equalization valve selectively preventing and permitting fluid communication between a flow passage of the tubular string and an annulus between the annular seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Tuong T. Le