Detents Or Clutches Patents (Class 166/237)
  • Patent number: 8201623
    Abstract: A positioning tool engages a profile with retaining members such as dogs so that a pulling force can be applied for a predetermined time as a signal that the tool is at the proper location. The time delay is a fluid system that drives fluid through a narrow restriction. The restriction is variable to allow unloading of the resistance from the fluid system while the dogs are still adequately supported. As a result the dogs are released from the profile without regional overstressing. A lock can prevent the tool from resetting to limit its use to locating at a single location. The lock holds the hydraulic system in a defeated position so that even if the dogs engage another profile when locked they will immediately exit that profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Robert S. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 8191639
    Abstract: The present invention provides a swivel sub for connection in a work string between a workstring and a downhole apparatus. The swivel sub includes a first substantially cylindrical body, including a sleeve portion having one or more teeth and a second substantially cylindrical body being partially located within the sleeve portion. The bodies are arranged to rotate relative to each other. The swivel sub also includes a sliding sleeve, having one or more teeth arranged mutually engage with the first teeth is axially moveable between disengaged and engaged positions, in one embodiment by a pressure differential being created in the sub. Further, the present invention provides methods for of running the tool, with particular application to setting and hanging of liners and screens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Tercel Oilfield Products UK Limited
    Inventors: Paul Howlett, James Bain
  • Patent number: 8109339
    Abstract: A zero backlash downhole setting tool including a mandrel; a body lock ring at the mandrel; a setting sleeve in operable communication with a device to be set; a rotary take-up in tensile force transmissive contact with the device to be set; and a follower housing configured to follow the rotary take-up in a first mode of operation and extend away therefrom in another mode of operation, the follower being engaged with the body lock ring and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard YingQing Xu
  • Patent number: 8069925
    Abstract: A top sub of a clutch swivel for connection to a production well tubing string is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position relative to a mandrel. The engaged position allows an anchor to be set in a well casing by rotating the tubing string. Tension can be applied to the tubing string to move the top sub to the disengaged position, allowing the tubing string to be rotated without rotating the mandrel. The anchor can be moved to a different position, without pulling the tubing string to the surface, by removing tension from the tubing string to move the top sub from the disengaged position to the engaged position, rotating the tubing string in an opposite direction to release the anchor, and resetting the anchor by again rotating the tubing string. The top sub may also include a sealed internal volume of the swivel remains constant are.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Star Oil Tools Inc.
    Inventor: Marcel Obrejanu
  • Patent number: 7975784
    Abstract: A drill bit assembly for fluid-operated percussion drill tools. The assembly comprises a percussion bit (1) having a head portion (3) formed with an axially extending stub shank (32). A drive bush (2) is releasably connectable to the bit head portion (3). Axially extending splines (35) on the drive bush (2) are slideably engageable with complementary splines (36) formed on a drive chuck (4) whereby rotational drive from the chuck (4) may be transmitted to the drive bush (2). The assembly further comprises engagement means on the chuck (4) adapted for connecting the chuck (4) to a drive means (5) of the fluid-operated percussion drill tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Minroc Technical Promotions Limited
    Inventor: Joseph Purcell
  • Patent number: 7946348
    Abstract: A downhole rotation tool comprises a housing rotatable and axially slideable in relation to a gear shaft. The gear shaft is located interior of the housing. A tube gear is located intermediate the gear shaft and the housing. Helical threading on the gear shaft exterior interacts with helical threading interior of the tube gear to impart rotation of the tube gear upon linear movement of the gear shaft. A gear face at a lower end of the tube gear interacts with a corresponding gear face on the housing. Face gear teeth of the tube gear and the housing include axially-aligned engaging surfaces to rotate the housing in a preferred direction on downward stroke of the gear shaft and include inclined slip surfaces to allow relative rotation of the housing gear face and the tube gear face upon upward stroke of the gear shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry L. Swinford
  • Patent number: 7921926
    Abstract: A jointed spearhead assembly can include a base portion that is adapted to be connected to a down-hole object and a spearhead portion having a first end and a second. The second end includes a follower tab with a non-convex first follower interface. The spearhead portion can be pivotally coupled to the base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Longyear TM, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher L. Drenth, George Ibrahim, Anthony Lachance
  • Patent number: 7918273
    Abstract: A torque head for gripping tubular members, in at least some aspects, has a housing, grip mechanism secured within the housing, the grip mechanism for selectively gripping a tubular member, the grip mechanism including at least one jaw selectively movable toward and away from a portion of a tubular member within the housing, the at least one jaw having mounted thereon slip apparatus for engaging the portion of the tubular member, the slip apparatus including die apparatus movably mounted to the at least one jaw, the die apparatus movable with respect to the at least one jaw so that relative movement of the tubular with respect to the torque head is possible to the extent that the die apparatus is movable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Gene Snider, David Othman Shahin, John Timothy Allen, Kevin Leon Gray, Gary Thompson
  • Publication number: 20110056678
    Abstract: A positioning tool engages a profile with retaining members such as dogs so that a pulling force can be applied for a predetermined time as a signal that the tool is at the proper location. The time delay is a fluid system that drives fluid through a narrow restriction. The restriction is variable to allow unloading of the resistance from the fluid system while the dogs are still adequately supported. As a result the dogs are released from the profile without regional overstressing. A lock can prevent the tool from resetting to limit its use to locating at a single location. The lock holds the hydraulic system in a defeated position so that even if the dogs engage another profile when locked they will immediately exit that profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Robert S. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7861776
    Abstract: A coiled tubing connection system is used in a well. A connector having an engagement end is used to couple a wellbore device to the end of a coiled tubing. The connector is spoolable, and the engagement end comprises engagement features that facilitate formation of a connection that is dependable and less susceptible to separation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: L. Michael McKee, Bart Thomeer, Harold Steven Bissonnette, Michael Ramsey, Robert Bucher, Michael H. Kenison, Robert Greenaway
  • Patent number: 7819186
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device that relates to a downhole tool. The tool comprising, a tool body having first and second support portions, and at least one extendable assembly pivotally mounted between the first and second support portions. The extendable assembly is reconfigurable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration by relative movement of the support portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Barnes Moyes
  • Publication number: 20100212884
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, a tool comprises a fluid path defined by a bore formed within a tubular body. A guided sleeve and a reciprocating sleeve are both disposed within the bore. A gearwheel is located on an outer surface of the guided sleeve and at least one pawl located on an inner surface of the reciprocating sleeve. When the reciprocating sleeve translates axially, it rotates in a first direction. As the reciprocating rotates, the at least one pawl pushes the gearwheel and causes the guided sleeve to rotate in the first direction into a new position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Scott Dahlgren, Jonathan Marshall
  • Publication number: 20100206552
    Abstract: An actuator device for moving a tool within a borehole in the ground, the actuator being positioned between a coiled tubing and a tool, and the actuator being arranged to move the tool at a substantially constant axial speed and the actuator including a motor-operated mandrel which is moved outwards in the actuator by means of a releasable nut, the nut being locked in its active position by means of a hydraulically operated locking piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: Pipetech International AS
    Inventor: Vidar Wollum
  • Publication number: 20100170680
    Abstract: A well tool is adapted to couple to at least one of a wireline service tool and a tubing string and has an adapter component engaging portion adapted to couple to an adapter component. At least a first and a second interchangeable adapter components are operable to couple to the adapter component engaging portion. The first adapter component is adapted to perform a first function and the second adapter component is adapted to perform a second function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: Ronald W. McGregor, David G. Dearing
  • Patent number: 7681637
    Abstract: A guide shoe that utilizes an eccentric nose attached to a cylindrical body that has spiraled, ridged blades extending outward from the body. An orientation system is attached between the body and a hollow shaft. The orientation system is designed to allow free rotation of the body and nose about the shaft during the insertion of the tubing into the hole. It does this by providing clearance between a pawl and notches on the cylindrical body. Indexing of the eccentric nose is provided by a slight retraction of the tubing string in the well hole. Friction between the well hole and ridged blade causes the cylindrical body to rotate about the shaft and lock into an oriented position. The guide shoe is attached to the tubing string by a threaded female connection mating to the matching male connection on the tubing string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventors: Bradley L Frazier, Ronald G Schlappy
  • Patent number: 7677304
    Abstract: A downhole valve has a flow tube hydraulically actuated to open and close a flapper. The flow tube moved to a first position closes the flapper to restrict flow through the valve. The flow tube moved to a second position opens the flapper. A passable no-go device disposed in the valve permits or restricts mechanical passage through the valve in response to the position of the flow tube. The apparatus has a support and one or more dogs supported in windows of the support and biased by springs. The flow tube in the first position pushes the dogs to an extended position that restricts mechanical passage through valve so that a tool cannot be passed through the valve while the flapper is closed. When the flow tube is in the second position, however, the dogs retract so the tool can be passed through the valve while the flapper is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: Roddie R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7669672
    Abstract: The present application is directed an apparatus for installing boreholes in the formation surrounding a main wellbore, the apparatus comprising an indexing tool comprising an indexing deflector and a deflector shoe; the deflector shoe comprising an opening therethrough configured to receive a borehole forming member; wherein the indexing deflector is configured to direct the deflector shoe from a first setting to at least a second setting for the installation of boreholes at each setting through said opening; to methods employing the apparatus, and methods for using the indexing tool to locate and access boreholes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventors: Charles Brunet, Michel Bouchard
  • Publication number: 20090314492
    Abstract: A protection sleeve (12) for locking over a seal (72) in a wellbore is described. The sleeve (12) is adapted for releasable engagement to a running tool (14) and has a locking mechanism (28) comprising first and second tubula members and a collet (56) is provided. One tubular member includes a profile adapted to mate with a profile of the seal (72). The sleeve (12) may be located on a work string (14), including a rotary drill string, and the invention also relates to methods of running in, setting, carrying out an intervention operation and retrieving the sleeve in a single run. The invention has particular application in Through Tubing-Rotary Drilling (TTRD).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Michael A. Reid, Irvine C. Brown
  • Publication number: 20090223669
    Abstract: A method and a device for solvent injection in a subsurface well (1) where the solvent flows towards the formation wall (4) of the subsurface well (19) via a releasable duct (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Rune Freyer
  • Patent number: 7503390
    Abstract: A locking device prevents stressing of other components used to hold tool portions against relative movement until a desired location is reached. A locking dog holds a first component, such as a sliding sleeve to a second component, such as a mandrel until pressure can move a piston and remove support for the dog. The same pressure that removes support for the dog to unlock the lock also forces a retainer, such as a shear pin that holds a sleeve to break to allow the sleeve to shift. The locking dog keeps stress off the shear pin when the locking dog is supported in the run in configuration. An alternative design uses a grease filled cavity to dampen shocks that could load a shear pin to the point of failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Alfredo Gomez
  • Publication number: 20080296015
    Abstract: A downhole tool string, comprising a tool string bore and a drill bit located at the bottom of the tool string. The drill bit comprises a body intermediate a shank and a working surface. The working surface may comprise a substantially coaxial rotationally isolated jack element with a portion of the jack element extending out of an opening formed in the working surface to engage a subterranean formation. The tool string may comprise a driving mechanism adapted to rotate the jack. The clutch assembly disposed within the tool string bore may comprise a first end in communication with the jack element and second end in communication with the driving mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: David R. Hall, David Lundgren
  • Patent number: 7373988
    Abstract: A liner running system for placing a liner in a well bore comprises a latch sleeve connected to the liner and a running tool releasably attached to the latch sleeve. The latch sleeve has a wall thickness substantially the same as the wall thickness of the liner, and the running tool has an outer diameter less than or equal to the inner diameter of the liner. The latch sleeve may be connected into the liner at any location along its length. The running tool is releasable from the latch sleeve via hydraulic actuation or mechanical actuation. Optionally, a swivel may be connected to the liner. The swivel has a wall thickness substantially the same as the wall thickness of the liner. The method for lowering the liner into the well bore via the liner running system comprises rotating the liner, pushing the liner, pulling the liner, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Campbell, Charles H. Dewey, Brian W. Cruickshank
  • Patent number: 7360609
    Abstract: A general housing encloses a drilling motor that can be disabled to permit optimum rotary drilling practice. A mode selector responds to manipulation of the drilling fluid flow rate and permits activation of the drilling motor to drive a drill bit. The general housing is a two part arrangement that is connected by a deflection arrangement that is activated by start-up of the motor. A one-way clutch allows the lower housing to drive the drill bit when the motor is disabled and the clutch, with drill bit rotation resistance, changes the deflection arrangement for straight rotary drilling when the drill string is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas E. Falgout, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20070284116
    Abstract: Memory tool deployment method, system, and apparatus include a landing ring fit on a pipe deployed in a well. A drop-off tool has a landing collar and has a tool string with one or more memory tools. The drop-off tool is connected to a wireline and is deployed through the pipe in the well with the wireline. The drop-off tool is landed on the landing ring on the pipe so that the memory tools extend beyond the pipe. The wireline is released from the drop-off tool and is removed from the pipe so that logging operations can be performed. After logging, the wireline is redeployed in the pipe in the well and is reconnected to the drop-off tool to retrieve the memory tools from the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Applicant: PRECISION ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Joe Hall, Sam Ash, Scott Campbell, Tim Marsh, Leonard Casey
  • Patent number: 7287607
    Abstract: A drilling motor is housed in the upper portion of a housing, with a drive shaft extending through a lower portion of the housing. The two portions are coupled by bearing that has an axis of rotation that is tilted a small amount relative to the axes of both portions. The lower portion is rotationally coupled to the lower housing until a small amount of drilling fluid flow, or a preselected amount of motor torque, forces a clutch to disengage the motor, rotationally, from the lower housing. The lower portion is allowed limited rotation relative to the upper portion. At one rotational limit, the housing is in the straight configuration. At the other limit, the housing is in the deflected configuration. Conversion to the straight configuration is achieved, while drilling fluid flows, when the drill string is rotated, by formation drag, which rotates the lower portion to the straight configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas E. Falgout, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7252150
    Abstract: A downhole tool including a selectively releasable joint, a downhole drilling assembly including the downhole tool, and a corresponding method. In one embodiment of the invention, a downhole drilling assembly includes a downhole tool having a first body and a second body mounted for relative rotation; a joint part for use in forming a selectively releasable joint between the second body and a part of the assembly coupled to the second body; and one or more locking member(s) for locking the first and second bodies relative to one another against relative rotation so as to allow a release force to be applied through the first body to release the releasable joint and allow the tool to be separated from the part of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew McPherson Downie, Edward Docherty Scott, Roy Powell
  • Patent number: 7228910
    Abstract: A safety trip button (12) is described for a weight-set downhole tool. The button operates between the tool body (36) and a sleeve (34) of the tool, locking them initially together. When the tool reaches a selected formation (44) in a well bore, the button engages the formation (44) which unlocks the body and sleeve. The button is kept in the unlocked position by virtue of the formation while the tool is set. The button prevents premature setting of the tool and finds application on weight set tools such as packers and circulation tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Group Limited
    Inventor: Paul David Howlett
  • Patent number: 7066264
    Abstract: A service/completion liner having a plurality of downhole selectable indicating tools and being used in sand control (gravel pack) placement systems in conjunction with a straddle packer service tools or with conventional crossover type service tools. Each indicating collar has a downhole selectable indicating collar providing a robust, landing profile for precisely locating and maintaining service tool position during well treatment operations. The landing collars accommodate hydraulic and/or thermal effects commonly referred to as tubing move effects which are the principle cause of tool position error and excessive seal wear. The landing collar is downhole convertible between a pass through (Go) and non pass through (No-go) condition by simple upward and downward cycling via the tool running and treatment fluid tubing and a shifting tool, which may also be referred to as a set down collet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventors: H. Steven Bissonnette, L. Michael McKee, Ezio Toffanin
  • Patent number: 7011156
    Abstract: A percussion apparatus and method of using the percussion apparatus. The apparatus may be used for delivering an impact to a tubular string. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical member having an internal bore containing an anvil and a first guide profile. The apparatus further includes a rotor disposed within the internal bore, and wherein the rotor member comprises a body having an outer circumference with a second guide profile thereon, and wherein the rotor contains a radial hammer face. In a first position, the second external guide profile of the rotor will engage with the first guide profile of the cylindrical member so that the radial hammer face can contact the anvil. In a second position, the second guide profile of the rotor will engage with the first guide profile of the cylindrical member so that the radial hammer face is separated from the anvil shoulder. Multiple rotors and multiple stators may be employed. The rotor may be operatively associated with a stator that directs flow into the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Ashmin, LC
    Inventor: Gunther H H von Gynz-Rekowski
  • Patent number: 7004250
    Abstract: A sealing system for the interspace in the transition region between two well pipes of different diameters, and a mounting tool for producing the sealing connection. The mounting tool is lowered via a drilling string through a larger diameter pipe and, with a sealing system, is placed on a holding docket on the upper end of a lower, smaller diameter, pipe. A rotation exerted on the mounting tool via the drilling string; causes the sealing system to be fixed to the lower pipe. Via the drilling string, the mounting tool is pressed vertically downwards against a sealing ring of the sealing system which, as a result, bears in a sealing manner against the inner wall of the upper pipe of larger diameter. This sealing position is fixed by rotating the mounting tool in one direction and by rotating the mounting tool in the other direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: H. Butting GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Friedrich Henneicke
  • Patent number: 6997252
    Abstract: A hydraulic setting tool for packers capable of mechanically setting the packer and opening a valve in the packer in one trip. The tool comprises an outer sleeve and an inner mandrel coaxially disposed within the outer sleeve and adapted to move axially relative to the outer sleeve. The tool further comprises three locking mechnisms that unlock under different fluid pressure loads. Two of the locking mechanisms lock the inner mandrel to the outer sleeve in a run-in position. Once a sufficient fluid pressure has been reached to unlock both of these locking mechanisms, the inner mandrel moves upward relative to the outer sleeve to set the packer. A spring forces the inner mandrel into a third position relative to the outer sleeve, which is maintained by the third locking mechanism. This third position is used to open the packer valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jesse C. Porter, Brian K. Wilkinson, Donald R. Smith, Donald F. Hushbeck
  • Patent number: 6889765
    Abstract: The invention generally concerns a submersible well pumping system comprising an axially elongated housing and a multi-chamber hydraulically driven diaphragm pump suspended in a well. The pump is driven by a self-contained, closed hydraulic system, activated by an electric, pneumatic or hydraulic motor. Several embodiments are used to reverse the flow of working fluid into and out of the working fluid sub-chambers of a two chambered diaphragm pump to operate the diaphragm pump over all operating conditions including starts and stops, and low speed. Generally, the embodiments sense the end of the pumping stroke, either directly or by time. When the end of the pumping stroke is sensed, the direction of flow is reversed by changing the state of a directional valve, operating a reversing clutch, or by deactivating one prime mover-auxiliary pump and activating a second that operates in the reverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Smith Lift, Inc.
    Inventor: Leland B. Traylor
  • Patent number: 6712134
    Abstract: A bi-directional jar with bit turning capability jars down when weight is set down on the tool and pressure is built up on a piston to move the body up while compressing a spring. When spring force opens the valve in the piston, the housing comes down striking an anvil as the flow rushes through the piston before the valve recluses for another cycle. The valve member features a hydraulic brake to slow its movement after the valve is forced open. Clutching action comes from an angled spline acting through a spirally cut cylinder, which reduces in diameter to engage the bit to turn. A single spring acts on a pair of pistons for bi-directional jarring. Modularity allows rapid conversion to uni-directional operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Carl W. Stoesz
  • Patent number: 6662886
    Abstract: A mudsaver valve is described that has a bi-directional snap action in opening and closing the valve. The mudsaver valve is adjustable for different mud weights and includes a preassembled valve cartridge for ease of assembly. Furthermore, elevated pressure from below is readily transmitted past the valve seat, so that the standpipe pressure of the well can be determined through the valve when the pumps are stopped and mudsaver is still connected to the drillstring. One embodiment of the mudsaver valve also contains a mechanism whereby the valve may be locked open by an accessory tube whenever a pipe gets stuck and becomes inaccessible, thereby permitting wireline operations through the valve so that the pipe may be freed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Larry R. Russell
  • Patent number: 6634424
    Abstract: A downhole control tool (20) comprises a first sleeve (22) defining a first profile (28), a second sleeve (24) axially and rotatably movable relative to the first sleeve (22) and defining a second profile (30) for selectively engaging the first profile (28), and a third sleeve (26) axially movable relative to the first sleeve (22) and defining a third profile (36) for selectively engaging the second profile (30). The profiles are engaged and disengaged by axial reciprocal movement of the third sleeve (26). The profiles are arranged such that on the second profile (30) engaging the first profile (28) and the second profile (30) engaging the third profile (36), the second sleeve (24) is rotated relative to the first sleeve (22). Thus, the tool (20) provides an arrangement which converts a reciprocal movement into a rotary movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Millennia Engineering Limited
    Inventor: David George Knowles
  • Patent number: 6631768
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose apparatus and methods that can be used to mechanically actuate a downhole tool with an expandable shifting tool. One embodiment of the invention is an expandable shifting tool comprising a housing having an outer diameter and a plurality of radially extendable elements. The radially extendable elements are longitudinally separated from each other and each extendable element is at least partially contained within the housing. The extendable elements are capable of moving between an extended position and a retracted position and are biased towards the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Dinesh R. Patel, Dennis M. Read, Jr., Ricardo Martinez
  • Patent number: 6598673
    Abstract: A wellhead load ring constructed in the shape of a C-ring is pre-installed in a wellhead in a storage position that maintains full bore of the wellhead. The load ring is secured in this position by shear pins. The shear pins are sheared by a tool that pushes the load ring into an operational position where it rests on a landing shoulder of a support ring. The load ring is further secured in this position by one of several latching methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley Hosie, Marc Minassian, Norman Brammer
  • Publication number: 20030075336
    Abstract: A communication tool (100) for communicating hydraulic fluid through a tubing retrievable safety valve (50) is disclosed. The tool (100) has a first section (102) and a second section (132) that are initially coupled together. A set of axial locating keys (112) is operably attached to the first section (102) and is engagably positionable within a profile (62). A radial cutting device (148) is radially extendable through a window (152) of the second section (132). A circumferential locating key (140) is operably attached to the second section (132) and is engagably positionable within a pocket (66) of the safety valve (50) when the first and second sections (102, 132) are decoupled, thereby circumferentially aligning the radial cutting device (148) with the non annular hydraulic chamber (60).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Stuart M. Dennistoun, Roddie Robert Smith, Imre I. Gazda
  • Patent number: 6516890
    Abstract: A protective member that is disposed within the longitudinal bore of a well tool, the well tool including an actuating mechanism adapted to be mechanically activated from the longitudinal bore. The actuating mechanism includes an engagement section, preferably a profile. The protective member, preferably a sleeve, substantially covers the actuating mechanism while leaving the engagement section exposed to the longitudinal bore. In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve is slidably disposed within the longitudinal bore between a first position and a second position. A biasing mechanism biases the sleeve into the first position, in which a sleeve first end is proximate the profile. Operation of the apparatus enables a method for preventing the inadvertent mechanical activation of the actuating mechanism of a well tool as peripheral equipment is passed through the longitudinal bore of the well tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen L. Jackson, John R. Whitsitt, David R. Mandeville
  • Patent number: 6505684
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydraulic actuator adapted for use in downhole well applications that enables control of several hydraulic devices from a single control line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Christophe M. Rayssiguier, Vong Vongphakdy
  • Publication number: 20020079103
    Abstract: A downhole control tool (20) comprises a first sleeve (22) defining a first profile (28), a second sleeve (24) axially and rotatably movable relative to the first sleeve (22) and defining a second profile (30) for selectively engaging the first profile (28), and a third sleeve (26) axially movable relative to the first sleeve (22) and defining a third profile (36) for selectively engaging the second profile (30). The profiles are engaged and disengaged by axial reciprocal movement of the third sleeve (26). The profiles are arranged such that on the second profile (30) engaging the first profile (28) and the second profile (30) engaging the third profile (36), the second sleeve (24) is rotated relative to the first sleeve (22). Thus, the tool (20) provides an arrangement which converts a reciprocal movement into a rotary movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Applicant: Millenia Engineering Ltd.
    Inventor: David George Knowles
  • Patent number: 6382324
    Abstract: A system for permitting deployment of a polished bore receptacle, seal stack and production tubing in a single downhole trip into a wellbore. The system includes a polished bore receptacle, production tubing, a seal stack disposed about the production tubing, and a one trip seal latch that couples the production tubing to the polished bore receptacle. The seal latch includes an outer latch housing and an inner latch housing. The outer housing and inner housing are connected by a releasable coupling device. Thus, the polished bore receptacle can be moved downhole for latching to a packer without insertion of the seal stack into the interior of the polished bore receptacle. Upon latching of the polished bore receptacle to the packer, the coupler may be selectively released to permit insertion of the seal stack into the polished bore receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Steven L. Anyan
  • Patent number: 6289986
    Abstract: A pump rod drive and torque release mechanism for use in association with a downhole pump positioned within a well. The pump rod drive and torque release mechanism comprises a central housing having a generally hollow interior, a drive shaft received within the central housing, a drive rod received within the central housing, and a torque transfer mechanism positioned within the central housing. The drive shaft may be operatively connected to a pump rod rotator to impart rotational movement to the drive shaft. The drive rod may be operatively connected to a downhole pump so as to enable transference of rotational energy from the drive rod to the downhole pump. The torque transfer mechanism has an engaged position wherein it operatively connects the drive shaft to the drive rod such that rotation of the drive shaft causes rotation of the drive rod. The torque transfer mechanism also has a disengaged position wherein it operatively disconnects the drive shaft from the drive rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Torque Control Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew J. Wright, Michael Wawrzynowski
  • Patent number: 6267180
    Abstract: The present invention provides a packer releasing tool for releasing a packer from a wellbore where the packer is coupled to a tubing string and has a releasing profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a packer downhole shoulder. The packer releasing tool preferably comprises a toplock assembly removably coupled to a downlock assembly. It also includes a toplock key that is movably coupled to the toplock assembly and that has a toplock key profile engageable against the packer releasing profile. Also present is a downlock lug that is movably coupled to the downlock assembly and that has a downlock lug profile engageable against the packer releasing profile. In one embodiment, the packer releasing tool has an outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the tubing string. This unique configuration allows the packer to be pulled without the need of first removing the production string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Imre I. Gazda, Marion D. Kilgore, Dennis D. Rood
  • Patent number: 6241023
    Abstract: A dog sub is provided for use in an assembly for running liners with weight-set packers and/or other mechanically or hydraulically actuated devices that need to be located. The dogs are retained by a sleeve so that an applied pickup force to determine that the running string had released from the liner can be applied which even results in removal of the dog sub from the extension tube of the weight-set packer. The dogs are held in a retracted position, even if taken out of the extension tube initially. Thereafter, the dog sub is supported off the extension tube and the locking sleeve on the dogs is liberated, with the dogs inside the extension tube. A subsequent pickup force allows the dogs to move outwardly, whereupon a subsequent setdown force locates the dogs on the setting extension tube. A subsequent setdown force sets the packer and breaks a breakable member, such as a shear pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Christiaan D. Krauss, David E. Hirth
  • Patent number: 6241032
    Abstract: The apparatus has a housing arranged to function as a length of drill string, including a fluid tight fluid conducting bore, with means at each end for connecting to a continuing drill string. The housing has two principal portions bearingly connected for rotation and axial constraint. A spring loaded one way clutch connects the two portions such that torque can be conducted therethrough in only one rotational direction. The clutch has one, spring loaded, axially moving element to actuate the clutch unless locked by optional provisions. The axial movement, optionally, actuates a valve in the fluid conducting bore to create a pressure drop in the fluid stream when the clutch is disengaged to provide a pressure signal that can be detected at the surface to indicate that the clutch is disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas E. Falgout, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6230806
    Abstract: Temporary no-go assemblies for use in locating a downhole tool at a predetermined target depth in a well are disclosed. Certain ones of the assemblies include a no-go sleeve for interfacing with a no-go shoulder in a casing and an actuating system for releasing the assembly from the no-go sleeve. Other ones of the assemblies include a key for engaging a landing nipple in a casing and a key retractor for retracting the key from the nipple. Still other ones of the assemblies include a key for engaging a no-go shoulder in a casing and a key retractor for retracting the key from the no-go shoulder. The assemblies are particularly useful in drilling and completing wells from a floating drilling rig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Gano
  • Patent number: 6227313
    Abstract: A downhole tool for engaging a borehole wall of a well, with outwardly displacing gripping elements to engage the borehole wall in such a way as to prevent rotation of the tool relative to the borehole wall, thereby preventing a downhole motor from imposing a reactive torque on the workstring uphole from the tool. The gripping elements can have one or more rolling elements, such as wheels, to roll longitudinally along the borehole wall in either the uphole or downhole direction, or both, while preventing transmission of reactive torque to the workstring. The gripping elements can also be configured to prevent longitudinal motion of the tool, such as blades. Displacement of the gripping elements can be hydraulically actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John Phillip Davis, Gerald D. Lynde
  • Patent number: 6209649
    Abstract: A selective re-entry tool is provided that allows an operator at the earth's surface to perform intervention operations in one or more completion strings by allowing remote discrimination and orientation of a tool string to a target location in a single comingling completion string. The selective re-entry tool may broadly include a carrier body having a navigation port extending longitudinally therethrough, and an orienting key movably connected to the carrier body and releasably engageable with a discriminator groove in a tubing string to align the navigation port with a predetermined one of a plurality of branch tubings in the tubing string. The re-entry tool may further include a locking dog movably connected to the carrier body and releasably engageable with a locking recess in the tubing string to prevent rotation of the carrier body after the navigation port has been aligned with the predetermined one of the plurality of branch tubings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Camco International, Inc
    Inventors: Ronald E. Pringle, Clay W. Milligan, Jr., Dwayne D. Leismer
  • Patent number: 6202746
    Abstract: A fail-safe tubular receiving member for use in combination with a latch assembly to longitudinally support and rotationally orient the latch assembly in a wellbore. The latch assembly includes at least one outwardly biased, radially movable latch member which is receivable within a bore of the receiving member. A first recessed area and a second recessed area, accessible from the first recessed area, are defined by the bore. The first recessed area defines a first increased radial distance and is configured so that upon longitudinal alignment of the latch member and the first recessed area, the latch member moves radially outward for receipt in the first recessed area to support the latch assembly longitudinally such that longitudinal movement of the latch assembly relative to the receiving member further downhole is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Elis Vandenberg, Ian G. Gillis, Laurier E. Comeau