Patents Issued in December 24, 2020
  • Publication number: 20200399986
    Abstract: A subsea valve system for use in a subsea landing string includes a subsea valve and an external manifold in fluid communication with the subsea valve. The external manifold includes a cylinder, a split manifold piston, an above bore inlet that is configured to be exposed to an above bore pressure, a below bore inlet that is configured to be exposed to a below bore pressure, and an open chamber outlet. The split manifold piston is configured to move within the cylinder fluidly couple the above bore inlet to the open chamber outlet to enable pump through functionality while a respective force exerted on the manifold piston by the above bore pressure is greater than a respective force exerted on the manifold piston by the below bore pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Mahesh Shenoy, John Kobersky, Christopher Irvine
  • Publication number: 20200399987
    Abstract: A system and method for generating a PVT model capable of predicting well behavior across a play is described. The method can comprise the step of obtaining, for each well of a subset of wells, a measured API gravity, a measured gas-to-oil ratio (GOR), and one or more lab experiments. The lab experiments can measure one or more PVT characteristics. The method can also comprise the step of training a PVT model to match the measured API gravities and the measured GOR with the PVT characteristics. Further, the method can comprise the step of inputting a PVT input into the PVT model and receiving a PVT output from the PVT model. The PVT input can be related to an additional hydrocarbon sample. The PVT input can comprise an API gravity and a GOR. The PVT output can be based on the API gravity and the GOR.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: Ashish Dabral
  • Publication number: 20200399988
    Abstract: A method includes performing a first rig operation using rig equipment, the first operation includes a make-up connection operation, a touch-bottom operation, or both. The method includes measuring operating parameters while performing the first rig operation, generating a baseline dataset based on measurements of the operating parameters taken while performing the first rig operation, performing a second rig operation using the rig equipment, measuring the operating parameters while performing the second rig operation, generating a current dataset based on measurements of the operating parameters, determining a health index value for the rig equipment by comparing the baseline dataset and the current dataset; and adjusting drilling rig parameters based on the health index value. Adjusting the one or more drilling rig parameters includes adjusting a level of operational load of the rig equipment, adjusting a throttle of the rig equipment, or adjusting a drilling technique employing the rig equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Alejandro Camacho Cardenas, Juan-Carlos Yepez
  • Publication number: 20200399989
    Abstract: The disclosure improves the analysis of the hydraulic fracturing (HF) break down process of a well system. The analysis can use as inputs collected HF data such as the HF fluid pressure, HF fluid flow rate, and HF fluid composition over one or more time intervals. In some aspects, the perforation parameters and stratigraphic well placement can also be used as inputs. The analysis can also use as inputs the HF model inputs that were used in collecting the HF data. The analysis can determine an effectiveness parameter of the received inputs. HF model inputs can be selected that would best fit a HF job plan goal for the current well system. In some aspects, the HF model inputs can be communicated to a well system controller of the current well system to further direct HF job plan operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Vladimir Nikolayevich Martysevich, Ronald Glen Dusterhoft, Jianfu Ma
  • Publication number: 20200399990
    Abstract: Dynamically combining graphical information from multiple windows displayed in a graphical user interface includes displaying a first window including a first graphic representation of a first data set, and a second window including a second graphic representation of a second data set. An overlap condition is detected by constantly monitoring a boundary of the first window and a boundary of the second window. In response to detecting the overlap condition, the first data set and the second data set are processed to identify a first and second set of attributes of the first and second data sets, respectively. A third set of attributes is determined, whereby the third set of attributes is common to the first set of attributes and the second set of attributes. A third window including a third graphic representation is generated and displayed based on the first graphic representation and the third set of attributes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2016
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Hallgrim LUDVIGSEN, Mark Gerrard DOUGLAS
  • Publication number: 20200399991
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for placing a member in a wellbore. The apparatus includes member conveyable downhole, a component of the member configured to perform an action in the wellbore, a potential energy source, a locking device and a heat source. The potential energy source is capable of activating the component. The locking device constrains the potential energy source from activating the component when the locking device is in a first state. The heat source changes the locking device from the first state to a second state in which the locking device allows the potential energy source to activate the component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Duggan, Jeffrey C. Williams
  • Publication number: 20200399992
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to equipment utilized and operations performed in conjunction with a subterranean well and, more particularly, to an improved liner hanger system. A downhole expandable liner hanger positioned in a subterranean wellbore may comprise a liner. The downhole expandable liner hanger may further comprise an expansion element. The expansion element may comprise one or more annular seals bonded to the expansion element, a first spike; and a second spike. The downhole expandable liner hanger may further comprise a woven mesh, wherein the woven mesh is disposed around the expansion element between the first spike and the second spike, wherein the woven mesh comprises a first material layer and a second material layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Emile Edmund Sevadjian, Chad William Glaesman, Gary Allen Kohn
  • Publication number: 20200399993
    Abstract: A downhole tool for perforating a borehole includes a gun body and charges arranged in a helix around the gun body and evenly spaced from both a nearest neighbor along the helix and a nearest neighbor in an adjacent wrap of the helix. Further, placement of the charges is based on a specified diameter of the borehole and specified charge density.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Brenden Michael Grove
  • Publication number: 20200399994
    Abstract: A firing stand (30) for mounting a plurality of shaped charges. The firing stand (30) can be configured by a user between a transport configuration in which shaped charges are stored for transport, and at least a first firing configuration from which shaped charges can be deployed. Inter-connected rotating panels (31) may be used to provide user configurability to the firing stand (30), with shaped charges optionally being mounted in panel apertures (36). The firing stand provides for rapid and configurable deployment of multiple shaped charges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: DAVID TIMOTHY NEWELL
  • Publication number: 20200399995
    Abstract: A tandem seal adapter (TSA) for use with a wellbore tool may include a TSA body including a first end and a second end opposite the first end in an axial direction, a bore extending through the TSA body from the first end to the second end, an electrical contact assembly provided within the bore, the electrical contact assembly being configured to provide electrical connectivity through the bore. The electrical contact assembly may include a bulkhead provided within the bore. An axial position of a maximum outer diameter of the TSA body may overlap with the bulkhead in the axial direction. A portion of the bore overlapping in the axial direction with an entirety of the TSA body having an outer diameter equal to the maximum outer diameter may have a constant bore diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: DynaEnergetics Europe GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Haron Preiss, Thilo Scharf, Liam McNelis, Eric Mulhern, David C. Parks
  • Publication number: 20200399996
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for extracting and producing heavy crude oil from subterranean oil fields is provided. The method utilizes a specially designed mixing mandrel to facilitate the combination and mixing of a high API gravity diluent with heavy crude oil from a subterranean oil reservoir, such that the resulting heavy oil mixture can be efficiently pumped to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: O. Duane Gaither, JR.
  • Publication number: 20200399997
    Abstract: A system for energy recovery from a rod pump includes a reversible hydraulic pump; a variable speed reversible motor-generator connected to the reversible hydraulic pump; and a variable speed drive that operates the motor-generator to rotate the reversible hydraulic pump in a forward direction to pump hydraulic fluid to the rod pump during an upstroke, and to operate the motor-generator in a generator mode in which a weight of a rod string lowers a piston in the rod pump during a downstroke to pump hydraulic fluid to rotate the hydraulic pump in reverse such that the motor-generator generates electricity, and the variable speed drive modulates a speed of the motor-generator during the downstroke to modulate a speed of the reversible hydraulic pump to control a rate of flow of hydraulic fluid through the reversible hydraulic pump and thereby modulate a rate of downward motion of the rod string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: Micheal Neil SCOTT
  • Publication number: 20200399998
    Abstract: A pump system and method for producing fluids from a reservoir using a wellbore having a vertical section with a casing defining a wellbore annulus, a horizontal section in fluid communication with the wellbore annulus, and a production tubing having a vertical section, a horizontal section and a toe end, the production tubing defining a continuous flow path from the toe end to the vertical section, the system comprising a plurality of horizontal pump assemblies operating in parallel in the production tubing horizontal section. Each horizontal pump assembly includes a pump having an intake exposed to the reservoir and an outlet in the continuous flow path, and a fluidseeker which has an inner conduit forming the continuous flow path and defining an inlet chamber, and including an axially rotatable inlet extension disposed in the inlet chamber. The inlet extension has a weighted keel defining inlet ports which are in fluid communication with the inlet chamber and a fluid inlet for the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Eric LAING, Geoff STEELE, Pawandeep KHAIRA, John BARRETT, Mathew BARRETT
  • Publication number: 20200399999
    Abstract: A method for producing hydrocarbons in a gas lift well is disclosed. A gas lift rate of the well is monitored while producing hydrocarbons according to an initial gas lift performance curve. One or more well performance parameters for the well are monitored. Disturbances in the well are detected while monitoring the well performance parameters. Transience in the well is modeled. A new gas lift performance curve is derived based on the detected disturbances, the modeled transience, and the initial gas lift performance curve. An optimal allocation of gas lift is determined from the new gas lift performance curve. Hydrocarbons are produced using the determined optimal allocation of gas lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Marco De Mattia, Mahsa MEMARZADEH, Curtis J. HOLUB, Amr S. EL-BAKRY
  • Publication number: 20200400000
    Abstract: A pumping system that includes a reciprocating isobaric pressure exchanger (reciprocating IPX) designed to exchange pressures between a first fluid and a second fluid. The first fluid includes a substantially particulate free fluid and the second fluid includes a particulate laden fluid. The reciprocating IPX includes a valve having a first and second piston. The value further includes a shaft coupling the first piston to the second piston and a drive coupled to the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Farshad Ghasripoor, Jeremy Grant Martin, Prem Krish, Baji Gobburi
  • Publication number: 20200400001
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an improved method for the production of hydrocarbons from shales. A mixture of heated water vapor and solvent gases are injected into the formation through the wellhead, and the well and fracture network are filled with steam. The injection is ceased and the heated water vapor and solvent gases are allowed to soak, allowing the rock to take in the heat of the steam in the fractures via thermal conduction. The well is then opened allowing the well to produce hydrocarbons, and pressure of fluid in the fractures to drop. Oil and gas from the reservoir will then flow into the well and to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Kenneth Kibodeaux, Ivan Edward Terez
  • Publication number: 20200400002
    Abstract: A system and apparatus for plasma blasting comprises a borehole, with a novel blast probe, the probe comprising a high voltage electrode and a ground casing tube separated by a dielectric separator except for an evacuated area where the plasma blast occurs, wherein the opening in the ground casing and the dielectric separator constitute a sliced and elliptical probe shape. The sliced and elliptical shape of the opening focuses a plasma blast in a specific direction and contours, wherein at least a portion of the high voltage electrode and the ground electrode are submerged in the blast media. The blasting media comprises water alone or in combination with other materials. The sliced and elliptical blast probe permit directional aiming of the blast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Petram Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank A. Magnotti, II, Brian Wells, Stevie R. Best
  • Publication number: 20200400003
    Abstract: A frac tree coupled to a wellhead is connected to either flowback equipment or zipper modules using a single straight-line connection of pipes, valves, and/or frac iron that define a straight-line pathway for fluid, gas, or flowback materials. The disclosed single straight-line connections referenced herein may be used in pressure pumping operations to deliver hydraulic fracturing fluid (“frack fluid”) to a frac tree for delivery to a wellhead or for carrying flowback from the wellhead to a flowback-collecting equipment. Using the single straight-line connections referenced herein dramatically reduces the complexity of connections needed to deliver frack fluid to or carry flowback away from a well, thereby reducing the cost, improving the efficiency, and increasing the safety of pressure-pumping and flowback operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: Matthew Thomas Robinson Webster
  • Publication number: 20200400004
    Abstract: Methods disclosed improve the cluster efficiency during stimulation treatment, such as fracturing treatments. The methods incorporate any combination of the following: slurry rate ramp, proppant ramp and hold, and constant apparent viscosity during the stimulation treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Jeremy Blair Magness, Neil Modeland, Ubong Inyang, Jason Eric Maxey
  • Publication number: 20200400005
    Abstract: The present invention discloses electro-hydraulic hybrid drive sand-mixing equipment, including a skid base, an electric motor, a hydraulic pump, a discharge centrifugal pump, a suction centrifugal pump, a mixing tank, a dry additive system, a liquid additive system, and a sand auger system. The electric motor, the hydraulic pump, the discharge centrifugal pump, the suction centrifugal pump, the mixing tank, the dry additive system, the liquid additive system, and the sand auger system are integrally skid mounted on the skid base. There are two electric motors, including a first electric motor and a second electric motor. The first electric motor drives the discharge centrifugal pump, and the second electric motor actuates the hydraulic pump, to drive the suction centrifugal pump, the mixing tank, the dry additive system, the liquid additive system, and the sand auger system. The electric motor is an integrated variable-frequency drive electric motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Maomao Han, Weiwei Liu, Yongcheng Liu, Yipeng Wu, Shuwei Li, Shijun Song, Lianpan Duan
  • Publication number: 20200400006
    Abstract: The invention discloses a method of solution mining trona by injecting an aqueous solvent into an underground cavity comprising trona to dissolve trona in the aqueous solution and removing the aqueous solution from the cavity at about the WTN triple point (the temperature at which solid phase wegscheiderite, trona, and nahcolite can co-exist in an aqueous solution). Alkaline values from the removed aqueous solution are recovered to produce a barren liquor. The method further includes either (i) treating the barren liquor to produce an aqueous solvent or (ii) treating injected aqueous solvent to reduce clogging at the trona dissolution surface caused by supersaturation of sodium bicarbonate, and precipitation of nahcolite and wegscheiderite as the aqueous solution in the cavity approaches saturation of both dissolved sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: SESQUI MINING, LLC
    Inventors: Roger L. DAY, James A. HERICKHOFF
  • Publication number: 20200400007
    Abstract: A model of a control loop for a variable-frequency drive (VFD) and a top drive (TD) is generated. The VFD and the TD are part of a VFD-TD system of a well drilling system. Expected magnitude and phase frequency responses are determined utilizing the model. The VFD and TD are tested by injecting a sequence of sine wave signals with different, predetermined frequencies from an external controller to the VFD as TD speed setpoint inputs on top of a constant base speed, and logging the test data. Magnitude and phase delay for the different frequency sine inputs to the VFD-TD loop are determined based on the logged data. Health of the VFD-TD system is assessed by comparing the determined magnitude and phase responses with the expected magnitude and phase responses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Jian WU, Nathaniel WICKS
  • Publication number: 20200400008
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method includes receiving a plurality of sensor signals, each signal of the plurality of sensor signals being tagged with an associated time and depth. The method also includes selecting a baseline signal. The method further includes comparing a selected sensor signal, of the plurality of sensor signals, to the baseline signal. The method also includes determining a difference between the baseline signal and the selected sensor signal exceeds a threshold. The method includes identifying, based at least in part on the difference, a feature of interest associated with the selected sensor signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
    Inventors: Sushant Dutta, Joseph Olaiya, Otto Fanini
  • Publication number: 20200400009
    Abstract: A method to estimate the likely downhole conditions in the wellbore and reservoir by Inverse modeling well flow simulation history matched with field sensor data. The invention presents a method for automating sensor data processing through cleaning, transformation, and identification of stable states. This process is crucial for the selection of data to be simulated and matched without human review. The matched simulations are subjected to a state-space model in order to assign a probability to a given unknown state. This probability is updated at each time step. As the well undergoes transition over time including decline, the drift of the likely state of operation is orchestrated to allow physically constrained movement to a proximate space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Chan Nhan Le, Venkataramana Balamurugan Srikanth Putcha, Michael Ransom Pennell
  • Publication number: 20200400010
    Abstract: A method to estimate the likely downhole conditions in the wellbore and reservoir by Inverse modeling well flow simulation history matched with field sensor data. The invention presents a method for automating sensor data processing through cleaning, transformation, and identification of stable states. This process is crucial for the selection of data to be simulated and matched without human review. The matched simulations are subjected to a state-space model in order to assign a probability to a given unknown state. This probability is updated at each time step. As the well undergoes transition over time including decline, the drift of the likely state of operation is orchestrated to allow physically constrained movement to a proximate space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Chan Nhan Le, Venkataramana Balamurugan Srikanth Putcha, Michael Ransom Pennell
  • Publication number: 20200400011
    Abstract: Generally, a sonde, associated components and methods are described which can be used in conjunction with an inground tool having an inground tool housing that defines an inground tool cavity such that the inground tool cavity is exposed to an ambient pressure environment which surrounds the inground tool during an inground operation. A sonde housing assembly includes an exterior configuration that is receivable within the inground tool cavity. The sonde housing assembly at least partially defines a sonde interior and is further configured for receiving the pressure sensor body of a pressure sensor in a pressure sealed engagement. A sonde electronics package is supported within the sonde interior and is at least configured to receive the pressure signal and transfer a corresponding pressure signal from the sonde.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Albert W. Chau, Dmitry Feldman, Benjamin John Medeiros
  • Publication number: 20200400012
    Abstract: The invention relates to a maintenance device (1) for determining the position of a blockage point (2) of a tubular member (3), characterized in that it includes a fiber-optic cable (40) and a plurality of holding guides (20), each holding guide (20) being attached to the fiber-optic cable (40) and including a means (21) for attaching to the tubular member (3). The invention also relates to a method and a system for determining the position of a blockage point of a tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Vincent LANTICQ, Pierre CLÉMENT, Tarek Marion LAMAZOUADE, Raphaël SOUCHAL, Cédric CABÉ
  • Publication number: 20200400013
    Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus for determining the location of a tool traveling down a wellbore by measuring a first borehole magnetic anomaly with respect to time at two known locations on a tool, comparing the time difference between the two measurements, then calculating the velocity of the tool based on the comparison, then further calculating the distance traveled by the tool in the wellbore based on the velocity calculation, then executing a series of commands at a predetermined location in the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Hunting Titan, Inc.
    Inventors: Gene McBride, Garrett M. Hohmann, David Dobsky, Faraidoon Pundole
  • Publication number: 20200400014
    Abstract: Provided here are methods and system to detect an untethered device in a wellhead. The untethered device includes a housing, a transducer, and one or more sensors configured to measure data along the subterranean well. The transducer emits acoustic signals that are received by microphones on the surface of the wellhead. Based on these acoustic signals, the location of the untethered device is determined and appropriate valves may be opened or closed by an operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Huseyin Rahmi SEREN, Max DEFFENBAUGH
  • Publication number: 20200400015
    Abstract: The subject disclosure provides for a method of eccentricity correction of a borehole shape computation. The method includes deploying a caliper tool into a borehole penetrating a subterranean formation and acquiring field measurements with the deployed caliper tool. The method includes applying, in a processor circuit, an eccentricity correction algorithm to one or more standoff samples from the obtained field measurements, wherein the eccentricity correction algorithm produces a shape fitted curve that represents a measured borehole with a least number of points outside of the shape fitted curve and a least amount of error. The method includes determining eccentricity-corrected borehole coordinates with the applied eccentricity correction algorithm and determining a borehole shape from the eccentricity-corrected borehole coordinates. The method includes determining tool location coordinates relative to the borehole with the determined borehole shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Yao Ge, Jing Jin, Xiang Wu
  • Publication number: 20200400016
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for producing a foundation element in the ground by means of a construction apparatus, wherein by means of a ground working tool a hole is formed in the ground, in which the foundation element is produced, wherein by means of a control and evaluation unit at least one operating variable of the construction apparatus, which changes depending on a ground composition, is detected as a function of a working depth. According to the invention provision is made in that in the control and evaluation unit a ground profile to be expected is entered, which indicates a layer structure of the ground with ground layers of different ground composition, and in that by the control and evaluation unit the detected, at least one operating variable is set in correlation with the stated ground profile in order to establish, at which working depth a transition between ground layers of different ground composition is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH
    Inventor: Hans REGLER
  • Publication number: 20200400017
    Abstract: A method may comprise positioning a downhole fluid sampling tool into a wellbore, performing a pressure test operation within the wellbore, performing a pumpout operation within the wellbore, identifying when a clean fluid sample may be taken by the downhole fluid sampling tool from at least the pressure test operation and the pumpout operation, and acquiring the clean fluid sample from the wellbore. A system may comprise a downhole fluid sampling tool and an information handling machine. The downhole fluid sampling tool may further comprise one or more probes attached to the downhole fluid sampling tool, one or more stabilizers attached to the downhole fluid sampling tool, and a sensor placed in the downhole fluid sampling tool configured to measure drilling fluid filtrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Ojo Olapade, Bin Dai, Christopher Michael Jones, Jimmy Price
  • Publication number: 20200400018
    Abstract: A gas extraction device includes a housing having a drilling fluid inlet and a drilling fluid outlet. A drilling fluid path can extend between the drilling fluid inlet to the drilling fluid outlet. Moreover, a plurality of drilling fluid disruptors, e.g., baffles, can be installed along the drilling fluid path. The drilling fluid disruptors liberate entrapped gas in the drilling fluid as the drilling fluid flows across the drilling fluid disruptors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Albert NEUBERT, Jeremy WHITT
  • Publication number: 20200400019
    Abstract: A drum-type shearer loader for the extraction of mineral material in the mining sector, has at least one shearer drum (1), which is mounted rotatably on a pivotable support arm (2) and which is driven by a drive motor (4) arranged at an end of the support arm (2), in the region of a support arm head (3). A compact drive unit for all operating states is provided with the drive motor (4) in the form of a permanent-magnet-excited synchronous machine which, during operation of the shearer drum (1), provides the entire drive power required for rotating the shearer drum (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Volker QUAST, Sepp LACHENMAIER, Falk LAUBE, André MARCIC, Jörg RECKTENWALD
  • Publication number: 20200400020
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting a person servicing a longwall shear such changing bits on a drum, embodiments relating to a base plate to be secured to an underside of a shield canopy and a slide plate movably connected to the underside of the base plate such that the slide plate can advance out from the shield canopy to allow a person to service a longwall shear while being protected by the slide plate from falling rock and other debris, and the slide plate can then retract back under the shield canopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Edward Protiva, Jessica Larew, Peter Singleton
  • Publication number: 20200400021
    Abstract: A combination for an opposed-piston engine includes an intake piston and an exhaust piston, each with a top land height. The intake piston top land height is less than the exhaust piston top land height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: ACHATES POWER, INC
    Inventor: Fabien G. REDON
  • Publication number: 20200400022
    Abstract: A rotary piston engine comprises a housing (10), which forms an interior space (11), and at least two rotary pistons (20, 30), which are arranged in the interior space (11). Formed on the interior space (11) are an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (15) to guide a fluid through the interior space (11). The rotary pistons (20, 30) are thereby driven by fluid flowing through. Each rotary piston (20, 30) has on its outer circumference at least two sealing strips (21, 31). According to the invention each rotary piston (20, 30) comprises at least two cavities (27, 37), in each of which a tube (38B) or an elastic solid rod is arranged. The sealing strips (21, 31) project into the cavities and against the tube (38B) received therein or the elastic solid rod. Through the tube (38B) or the rod, the sealing strips (21, 31) are pushed radially outwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: Dirk HOFFMANN
  • Publication number: 20200400023
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising: a shaft (18) rotatable about a first rotational axis (30); an axle (20) defining a second rotational axis (32); a first piston member (22) extending from the axle (20) towards a distal end of the shaft (18); a rotor (16) carried on the axle (20); the rotor (16) comprising a first chamber (34a); a housing (12) having a wall defining a cavity (26); a first magnetic guide feature (52); a second magnetic guide feature (50); whereby: the rotor (16) and axle (20) are rotatable with the shaft (18) around the first rotational axis (30); the rotor (16) is pivotable about the axle (20) to permit relative pivoting motion between the rotor (16) and the first piston member (22) as the rotor rotates about the first rotational axis (30); and at least one of the first magnetic guide feature (52) and second magnetic guide feature (50) comprises an electromagnet to pivot the rotor (16) about the axle (20) relative to the first piston member (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: Jonathan FENTON
  • Publication number: 20200400024
    Abstract: A reconfigurable maintenance apparatus includes a body configured to operate within a cavity. The body has a first shape in a first configuration and a second shape in a second configuration. The first configuration facilitates the body entering the cavity. The reconfigurable apparatus also includes at least one maintenance device operably coupled to the body. The second configuration facilitates the at least one maintenance device of the reconfigurable apparatus performing a maintenance operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Todd William Danko, Mark John Zajkowski, Don Mark Lipkin
  • Publication number: 20200400025
    Abstract: Composite profiles, such as rotor blades, airfoils, I-beams, and box beams having non-uniform cross sections, and a system, method and process for pultrusion of composite profiles. The pultrusion of a heavier or thicker cross section portion of the composite profile is performed in-line and upstream from pultrusion of a thinner or lighter portion of the pultruded profile using a separate die for the thicker portion of the cross section, or leading edge slug, in order to optimize the processing conditions, productivity, and consistency of the composite profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: TSC, LLC
    Inventor: Rob Sjostedt
  • Publication number: 20200400026
    Abstract: A component adapted for use in a gas turbine engine includes an aerofoil configured to interact with gases flowing through the gas turbine engine along a gas path. The aerofoil is formed to include a first passage that extends radially at least partway into the aerofoil and a second passage that extends radially into the aerofoil at a trailing edge of the aerofoil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: James C. Smith, Emma C. Steedman, Michael J. Whittle, Edward M. Jones
  • Publication number: 20200400027
    Abstract: A composite blade formed by laying up composite layers containing reinforcing fiber and resin, the composite blade comprising: a blade root mounted in a blade groove; an airfoil extending from the blade root to a front end side; and a metal patch mounted between the blade groove and the blade root, and bonded to the blade root.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Ryoji OKABE, Masami Kamiya, Kentaro SHINDO
  • Publication number: 20200400028
    Abstract: A calcium-magnesium-alumino-silicate (CMAS)-reactive thermal barrier coating includes a ceramic coating and a CMAS-reactive overlay coating, wherein the CMAS-reactive overlay coating conforms to a surface of the ceramic coating and comprises a compound that forms a stable high melting point crystalline precipitate when reacted with molten CMAS at a rate that is competitive with CMAS infiltration kinetics into the thermal barrier coating. The ceramic coating phase is stable with the CMAS-reactive overlay coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Brian T. Hazel, Elisa M. Zaleski, Kaylan M. Wessels
  • Publication number: 20200400029
    Abstract: An aircraft nacelle arrangement includes a compression rod disposed between a first nacelle half and a second nacelle half, wherein the first nacelle half and the second nacelle half are rotatable about a hinge between a closed position and an open position, a compression rod disposed between the first nacelle half and the second nacelle half, and a mounting bracket coupled to an exhaust nozzle flange of the aircraft engine, wherein the compression rod extends through the mounting bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Applicant: ROHR, INC.
    Inventors: Jinqiu Lu, Frank Zabatta, Travis Michael Frazier, Karina Alejandra Hernandez
  • Publication number: 20200400030
    Abstract: A sealing system is described for effecting a seal of a gap (G1; G2) in a turbomachine (1) between a first structural member (21; 23) and a second structural member (31). The sealing system includes a sealing apparatus comprising a sealing member (47; 77) comprising a first edge portion (49; 79) and a second edge portion (51; 81). The two edge portions are parallel to one another and the first edge portion (49; 79) forms a pivoting connection to the first structural member (21; 23). The first structural member (21; 23) further comprises a seat (55; 85) rotatably housing the first edge portion (49; 79) of the sealing member (47; 77). The second edge portion (51; 81) comprises a curved contact surface (51.1; 81.1), in sealing contact with a contact surface (67; 97) of the second structural member (31).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Luciano MEI, Marco BONCINELLI, Egidio PUCCI
  • Publication number: 20200400031
    Abstract: A turbine vane, a turbine, and a gas turbine capable of reducing thermal stress are provided. The turbine vane may include an airfoil including a leading edge and a trailing edge, an inner shroud disposed at one end of the airfoil to support the airfoil, an outer shroud disposed at the other end of the airfoil to support the airfoil and configured to face the inner shroud, a first cooling passage and a second cooling passage configured to extend in a height direction thereof, and a first passage bending part configured to connect the first cooling passage and the second cooling passage, and the first passage bending part is positioned inside the inner shroud or the outer shroud.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventor: Hyun Woo JOO
  • Publication number: 20200400032
    Abstract: A blade outer air seal assembly includes a support structure. A blade outer air seal has a plurality of segments that extend circumferentially about an axis and mounted in the support structure. At least two of the segments have a first wall circumferentially spaced from a second wall. A base portion extends from the first wall to the second wall. A recess is arranged in at least one of the first wall and the second wall. An intersegment seal is arranged between the at least two segments. The intersegment seal has a circumferentially extending portion and a radially extending tab. The radially extending tab extends into the recess to define at least two cavities within the recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2020
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Ken F. Blaney, Thomas E. Clark
  • Publication number: 20200400033
    Abstract: An abradable structure (36) is provided, with regions (44, 45, 46) with lower resistance to wearing produced by labyrinth seal lips (4, 5), at specific points in the axial direction of the turbomachine, where lip interference could cause the rotor to block up, such as after a temporary shutdown of the turbomachine. These regions may be produced by local weakening (38) or by the abradable material having a structure that is less dense. Application, for example, to turbomachine turbines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Baptiste Marie Aubin Pierre JOUY, Mathieu Charles Jean VERDIERE
  • Publication number: 20200400034
    Abstract: A system for controlling gas turbine engine rotor blades tip clearance is described. A rotor is mounted to an engine shaft, supported by a thrust bearing, for rotation within a gas path shroud circumscribing blades of the rotor, the gas path shroud having a non-cylindrical shape in the vicinity of the rotor blades. A rotary actuator is associated with the thrust bearing and configured for axial translation of the thrust bearing, to thereby axially translate the engine shaft and the rotor blades relative to the gas path shroud. This translation is configured to vary the blade tip clearance of the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Timothy REDFORD, David MENHEERE, Richard KOSTKA
  • Publication number: 20200400035
    Abstract: An induction heater is employed with a gas turbine engine in order to heat a static component of the gas turbine engine. The heating of the static component is performed such that the clearance space between the static component and a rotating component remains constant during steady state conditions and transient conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Publication date: December 24, 2020
    Inventors: Harry Chohan, Sébastien Bouffard, Alexandre Malo, Hayden Smith