Downhole Coupling Or Connector Patents (Class 166/242.6)
  • Publication number: 20150060087
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a connector apparatus for a semi-flexible tubing. The connector apparatus includes an inner sub having a first end disposable within a semi-flexible tubing and a second end connectable to various other downhole tools. The first end of the inner sub includes at least one depression disposed thereon that is generally alignable with at least one depression disposed on the semi-flexible tubing. The connector apparatus also includes an external sleeve disposable outside of the semi-flexible tubing. The external sleeve having at least one opening disposed therein generally aligned with the at least one depression in the first end of the inner sub. This disclosure is also directed to a method of installing the connector apparatus on a semi-flexible tubing and a method of running the semi-flexible tubing and a downhole tool into a wellbore via the connector apparatus disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Schultz, Brett Fears
  • Patent number: 8967279
    Abstract: A shear component for releasably securing a first component to a second component, the shear component comprising a body having a first end, a second end, an outer wall surface, an inner wall surface defining a cavity, a shear plane, and a core disposed within the cavity and in sliding engagement with the inner wall surface of the body. The core comprises a first position in which the core is disposed in alignment with the shear plane, and a second position in which the core is disposed out of alignment with the shear plane. The shear component can be included in a downhole tool to maintain the downhole tool in the run-in or initial position until being compromised by a stimulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: William A. Hered, Jason J. Barnard
  • Patent number: 8967277
    Abstract: A method of installing a wellbore junction assembly in a well can include connecting at least two tubular strings to one opposite end of a tubular string connector with similarly dimensioned oriented connections, whereby the tubular strings are interchangeably connectable to the connector by the oriented connections. A wellbore junction assembly can include at least two tubular strings and a tubular string connector having opposite ends. Each of the tubular strings may be secured to one opposite end of the connector by oriented connections, whereby each of the tubular strings has a fixed rotational orientation relative to the connector. A well system can include a tubular string connector, each of first and second tubular strings being secured to the connector, and a support which reduces bending of the second tubular string which results from deflection of the second tubular string from one wellbore section into another wellbore section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Steele, Jean-Michel Ranjeva
  • Patent number: 8967246
    Abstract: An actuator for connecting to and displacing of a component in a well tubular is disclosed. The actuator includes a tool shaft provided with a radial direction spring-loaded gripping device which are complementary fitting in the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Altus Intervention AS
    Inventors: Espen Osaland, Lasse Haugland
  • Patent number: 8960287
    Abstract: A well screen system comprises a wellbore tubular and a coiled shunt tube disposed along the wellbore tubular. The coiled shunt tube is configured to be unwound from a reel. A method of gravel packing comprises passing a slurry through a coiled shunt tube, passing the slurry from the coiled shunt tube to an annulus between an outside of a sand screen assembly and a wellbore wall, disposing the slurry about the sand screen assembly, and forming a gravel pack in response to disposing the slurry about the sand screen assembly. The coiled shunt tube is disposed along the sand screen assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Luke William Holderman, Todd Richard Agold, John Charles Gano
  • Patent number: 8960288
    Abstract: A system and method of perforating by stacking a perforating string within a wellbore, then deploying the perforating string to a designated depth for detonating shaped charges in the perforating string. The string can be formed by anchoring a single perforating gun in the wellbore, then landing subsequent guns on one another atop the anchored gun. Wet connects on the ends of the perforating guns enable mechanical engagement of each adjacent gun as well as signal communication through the connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Tim W. Sampson
  • Patent number: 8955603
    Abstract: A system of couplings and method of use of the couplings to locate a downhole tool connected to coiled tubing, such as a bottom hole assembly, within a selected segment of a casing string. The selected segment of casing may be a ported collar or ported housing that permits the treatment and/or stimulation of the adjacent well formation. The system of couplings may be two, three, or four couplings spaced apart at predetermined lengths. The predetermined lengths may be shorter than typical lengths of casing segments. The distance between the first and second coupling may be substantially identical to the distance between the third and fourth coupling. The use of distances between the couplings that are shorter than the length of conventional casing segments may provide surface indicators as to the location of the bottom hole assembly with a higher confidence than relying on a traditional tally sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John Edward Ravensbergen, Lyle Laun, John Misselbrook
  • Patent number: 8950478
    Abstract: Two well tools (100, 200) having centrally mounted drive shafts (160, 260) are provided with a mechanism to remove debris from a coupling between them. Thereafter, the tools can be coupled by inserting a first outer sleeve (110) on the first tool into and rotationally lock it to a second outer sleeve (210) on the second tool. The drive shafts (160, 260) are coupled in a similar manner. The mechanism for removing debris can displace the debris and/or a flushing device (170) using well fluid to stir up debris. The coupling has space for debris that is not removed, e.g. in the form of a chamber 264. The female part of the coupling may comprise a spring loaded lid (271) to reduce pollution by debris when the coupling is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: I-Tec AS
    Inventor: Kristoffer Brække
  • Publication number: 20150027734
    Abstract: An example double shoulder threaded tool joint connection includes a pin with external threads formed between a pin external shoulder and a pin nose. The tool joint also includes a box with internal threads formed between a box face and a box internal shoulder. The box internal shoulder may have a different pitch that the pin external shoulder. The internal threads and the external threads may be arranged and designed for connection with each other so that the box and the pin are connected with a common center-line and with a primary seal formed by the pin external shoulder forced against the box face and a secondary seal formed between the pin nose forced against the box internal shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Cain Pacheco
  • Publication number: 20150030374
    Abstract: A shearing mechanism in which a male component mates into a female component, the male component having a first groove extending around the male component and the female component having a second groove extending around the female component, the first groove and the second groove cooperating when the male component is inserted into the female component to define an annular recess. A shearing component is provided within the annular recess, the shearing component having a shear load that is controlled by the material and size of the shearing component. An opening is provided within one or both of the male component and female component, the opening being aligned with the annular recess. Stress relief is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Mark A. Lea-Wilson, Shane McAssey
  • Publication number: 20150021046
    Abstract: Threaded couplings and methods for use in drilling with casing can include first and second male members having exterior threads engaged with interior threads of a female member. Exterior shoulders of the male members can abut interior shoulders of the female member to facilitate placement of the male members such that pin noses thereof are positioned at the center of the female member, where abutment between the pin noses of the male members can form a seal. The shoulders can be provided with negative angles to prevent disengagement. Tapered surfaces can be provided on the male members, to contact tapered surfaces on the female member to form metal-to-metal seals for enhancing the integrity of the connection, a straight thread configuration can be used to maximize the thickness of the coupling, and bearing journals or guides can be used to facilitate engagement of the threads and retention of the engagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Warren Harold Schulte, Aubrey Coy Reece
  • Patent number: 8936078
    Abstract: Disclosed are shearable control line connectors. One control line connector includes an upper coupling element, a lower coupling element communicably coupled to the upper coupling element, and a connector cap securing the upper coupling element to the lower coupling element and being configured to shear upon being subjected to an axial force, thereby effectively separating the upper coupling element from the lower coupling element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: William Mark Richards
  • Patent number: 8931548
    Abstract: A modular tool for use in subterranean formations includes a first module, a second module and one or more connectors for connecting the first and second modules. In particular, the first module includes a first collar that at least partially defines an exterior of the tool and that includes a first engagement mechanism at a first end of the collar and a second engagement mechanism at a second end of the collar. The first module also includes a fluid passageway for passing drilling fluid therethrough. The second module has a similar configuration as includes similar architecture. The one or more connectors facilitate the connection of at least one flowline fluidly connected to an exterior of the tool, and an electrical pathway for transmitting power and/or data between the modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Ashers Partouche, Steven G. Villareal, Julian J. Pop, Albert Hoefel, Kent D. Harms
  • Patent number: 8910721
    Abstract: A method of use of a quick connect liner latch system assembly (QCLL). The QCLL latches each joint of a slick line deployed liner together quickly. This system can set an anchor in an existing well bore at a shallow depth and run a new liner in the well with a wire line unit using the QCLL system. The QCLL has two main sections that are locked together to form the full QCLL. The upper and lowers sections are locked together using a body lock ring. The units are not threaded together. The QCLL it has a latch with an inside diameter (ID) that is large enough to accommodate a standard liner wiper plug for the weight of the liner being run into the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Harris, Carl Diller, Candice English
  • Publication number: 20140352975
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing method includes positioning a tubing string within a wellbore. The tubing string comprises a lower tubular coupled to an upper tubular via a disconnectable assembly having a lower section connected to the lower tubular and an upper section connected to the upper tubular. The method also includes disconnecting the lower tubular from the upper tubular via the disconnectable assembly. Disconnecting the lower tubular from the upper tubular comprises introducing a releasing member into the upper tubular and conveying the releasing member through the upper tubular to engage the disconnectable assembly. The method also includes retracting the upper tubular upwardly within the wellbore. Upon retracting the upper tubular, the releasing member is retracted along with the upper section of the disconnectable assembly. Also, upon retracting the upper tubular, a route of fluid communication out of the upper tubular is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Eugene ROGERS, Earl Don WEBB
  • Patent number: 8899338
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and a method to insert a wireline through a blow out preventer to log an underbalanced open hole well without killing the well or causing formation damage while maintaining well control during the process. A dual throated blow out preventer (10) provides a moveable sealing element (1210, 1402) to allow a wireline (13) and a drill string (25) to be placed in a well for assembly, then seals off the dual throat to isolate the drill string from the wireline, thereby permitting pressure to be maintained on both the wireline through a standard packoff arrangement (1218) and on the drill string using the rams of the blow out preventer (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Salem Lotfi Elsayed, Waqar Khan
  • Patent number: 8893827
    Abstract: A drilling apparatus including a hydraulically powered hammer having a piston to impact a drill bit; a shuttle valve to control reciprocation of the piston; and an accumulator for hydraulic fluid; at least one drill rod having a first connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the connection valve of the hammer; and a second connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the first connection valve of a like drill rod or to a rotation device. The piston and shuttle valve are positioned substantially in-line to the axis of movement of the hammer. The accumulator is positioned proximate to the shuttle valve; and the first connection valve, and second connection valve having at least one poppet valve positioned proximate to a corresponding valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: JFK Equipment Limited
    Inventor: John Kosovich
  • Patent number: 8887835
    Abstract: A drilling apparatus including a hydraulically powered hammer having a piston to impact a drill bit; a shuttle valve to control reciprocation of the piston; and an accumulator for hydraulic fluid; at least one drill rod having a first connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the connection valve of the hammer; and a second connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the first connection valve of a like drill rod or to a rotation device. The piston and shuttle valve are positioned substantially in-line to the axis of movement of the hammer. The accumulator is positioned proximate to the shuttle valve; and the first connection valve, and second connection valve having at least one poppet valve positioned proximate to a corresponding valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: JFK Equipment Limited
    Inventor: John Kosovich
  • Patent number: 8887817
    Abstract: This tool comprises an upper portion and a lower portion able to move relative to each other between a connected position and a completely disconnected position. The tool comprises an immobilization member that can be freed from the upper portion relative to the lower portion, a member for releasing the immobilization member, and a mechanism for moving the release member housed in the tool. The movement mechanism comprises an actuator and a receptor for receiving a control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Geoservices Equipements
    Inventors: Bruno Le Briere, Clement Laplane, Abdelkader Didi, Vincent Chatelet
  • Publication number: 20140332234
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a release device (10) for releasably connecting a downhole object (80), such as a running tool or a plug, to a setting tool, the release device extending between a proximal end (10a) adapted to be coupled to the setting tool and a distal end (10b) adapted to be coupled to the downhole object, the release device comprising a base element (16) extending in a longitudinal direction and a connecting element arranged in continuation of the base element, the connecting element (11) constituting the distal end of the release device and being adapted to be coupled to the downhole object, wherein the connecting element is releasably coupled to the base element by an activatable release mechanism (60). Further, the invention relates to a downhole setting tool for setting an object in a wellbore and to a method for disconnecting a downhole object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventors: Jørgen Hallundbæk, Rasmus Sommer
  • Publication number: 20140326448
    Abstract: A double shoulder threaded tool joint connection comprising: a pin with external threads formed between a pin external shoulder and a pin internal shoulder, the pin having a nose section between the pin internal shoulder and the pin external threads; a box with internal threads formed between a box external shoulder and a box internal shoulder; wherein the internal threads and the external threads are arranged and designed for connection with each other so that the box and the pin are connected with a common center-line and with a primary seal formed by the pin external shoulder forced against the box external shoulder and a secondary seal formed between the pin internal shoulder forced again the box internal shoulder and wherein the internal threads and the external threads comprise: stab flanks having stab flank angles of between 20° and 40° measured from the thread axis and load flanks having first load flank angles of between 60° and 80° measured from the thread axis and second load flank angles of betwee
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventor: Cain Pacheco
  • Patent number: 8875791
    Abstract: A fiber optic coiled tubing assembly of multiple segments and coupling mechanism therefor. The assembly may be assembled from multiple coiled tubing segments which are pre-loaded with fiber optic line. Thus, the coupling mechanism may be employed for physical coupling of the coiled tubing segments as well as communicative coupling of the lines of the separate segments to one another. As such, pumping of a single fiber optic line through the coiled tubing assembly following coupling of the segments may be avoided. This may be of particular benefit for offshore operations where the joining of multiple coiled tubing segments is likely due to crane load capacity limitations and where such pumping may consume vast amounts of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Zafer Erkol, Jamie Cochran, Maria Yunda, Kellen Wolf
  • Publication number: 20140318809
    Abstract: A wireline connector device (10) for use in wireline intervention operations comprises a housing (18) connected to a first wireline conduit (L), a piston sleeve (46) located within the housing, and a collet device (60) configured to receive and retain a second wireline conduit, the collet device having a plurality of collet fingers (58) arranged within the piston sleeve, which is movable within the housing to open and close the collet fingers. Optionally a restrictor (57) can be configured to control the movement of the piston sleeve, and can be adjustable to lock the piston sleeve in the second position when the collet fingers are closed around the second wireline conduit. Typically at least one indicator rod (55) projects from the housing, and the piston sleeve engages indictor rod in the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: National Oilwell Varco UK Limited
    Inventors: Runi Joensen, Christopher McLaren
  • Patent number: 8869887
    Abstract: Downhole tools, such as MWD modules (or components), may be coupled together with a coupler (or coupling device) having a shaft housing with slidable electrical connectors disposed at each end. The electrical connectors may each be supported in connector housings disposed with springs or other movable devices. In a first position, the electrical connectors may extend past the ends of the shaft housing. The slidable connector housings allow the electrical connections to be made before the sleeves connecting (or mechanically connecting) the MWD modules with the coupler are begun to be threadedly attached with the coupler. Each of the connector housings may have a key configuration on their exposed end. The shaft housing may also have key configurations on its ends. The key configurations of the connector housings and the shaft housing may be configured to mate with compatible ends of MWD modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Tolteq Group, LLC
    Inventors: R. Paul Deere, Abraham Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20140311754
    Abstract: A system and method for splicing a non-spoolable tool anywhere along a coiled tubing string. A removable tubing section may be connected along a coiled tubing string by two spoolable connectors. The coiled tubing string may be unspooled from a reel until the removable tubing section and connectors are positioned within a work window. The removable tubing section may be disconnected from the tubing string through the work window and a tool may be connected to the coiled tubing string via the two connectors. The tool may then be positioned within a wellbore by insertion of the coiled tubing string. The tool may aid in the insertion of the coiled tubing string into the wellbore. A portion of the wellhead may be disconnected and raised to expose the connectors to permit the removal of the removable tubing section and the connection of a non-spoolable tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: JOHN G. MISSELBROOK, CRAIG CHABERT
  • Patent number: 8851189
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods of producing from multiple production zones with a single trip multi-zone completion system. One single trip multi-zone completion system includes an outer completion string having at least one sand screen arranged thereabout and a flow control device movably disposed within the at least one sand screen between an open position and a closed position, and an insert string arranged within the outer completion string and having at least one control and data acquisition module disposed thereon, the at least one control and data acquisition module having one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms extending therefrom and configured to locate and move the flow control device between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy R. Tips, William Mark Richards
  • Patent number: 8844625
    Abstract: Perforating gun connectors are provided with a small diameter inner tube to house the detonating cord and an outer load-bearing tube that is ported to be in pressure balance. The inner tube controls the volume in the gun for the well fluids to enter after the guns are fired and the initial pressure surge dissipates. The smaller diameter also increases pressure rating and diminishes the chance of plastic deformation. Since the inner tube is inset even some deformation is tolerated without distorting the outer tube due to the space between the tubes. A bored rod is used as a housing member or a layered single outer wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Nauman H. Mhaskar, William D. Myers
  • Publication number: 20140284065
    Abstract: A component for a drill stem including a tubular body with at least one first end zone and a second end zone. The component includes a sheath for passage of a cable extending inside the tubular body between the first end and the second end zone and at least one liner which lines at least a portion of the inside of the tubular body in the first end zone. At least a first end portion of the sheath includes a first threading. The liner supports a second threading. The first and second threading are screwed together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: Vallourec Drilling Products France
    Inventors: Alexandre Fraignac, Francois Millet
  • Patent number: 8839880
    Abstract: A method of forming a wellbore includes providing a drilling assembly comprising one or more lengths of casing and an axially retracting assembly having a first tubular; a second tubular at least partially disposed in the first tubular and axially fixed thereto; and a support member disposed in the second tubular and movable from a first axial position to a second axial position relative to the second tubular, wherein, in the first axial position, the support member maintains the second tubular axially fixed to the first tubular, and in the second axial position, allows the second tubular to move relative to the first tubular; and an earth removal member disposed below the axially retracting assembly. The method also includes rotating the earth removal member to form the wellbore; moving the support member to the second axial position; and reducing a length of the axially retracting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Jose A. Trevino, Albert C. Odell, II, Eric M. Twardowski, Tuong Thanh Le, Wei Jake Xu, Guy F. Feasey
  • Publication number: 20140262332
    Abstract: A well screen assembly has a base pipe and one or more screen sections attached to the outer surface of the base pipe. The assembly also has one or more shunt tubes attached to the base pipe via top and bottom rings. The shunt tubes can be attached to the screen sections via B-rings and may be transport tubes or packing tubes. Connections are used for securing a jumper tube to adjoining shunt tubes of adjoining screen sections of the wellscreen assembly, which may be used in open or cased holes. At a well site, the joints of the wellscreens have timed threads so that the various shunt tubes can be aligned with one another along the assembly as the joints are made up. The connections of the present disclosure allow operators to install a jumper tubes between shunt tubes at the joint without needing to tighten fasteners or assembly components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen McNamee, Michael J. Rodrigue, Floyd R. Simonds
  • Patent number: 8833472
    Abstract: A system for signal transmission along a drill string is disclosed. A first drill pipe section and a second drill pipe section each comprise an inner pipe. A first repeater sub is coupled to the first drill pipe section and the second drill pipe section at a first position along the drill string. The first repeater sub comprises a first toroid corresponding to the first drill pipe section and a second toroid corresponding to the second drill pipe section. A signal transmitted through the first drill pipe section, an inner mandrel of the repeater sub and the inner pipe of the first drill pipe section is received by the first toroid. The first repeater sub processes the signal received by the first toroid to generate a processed signal and transmits the processed signal to the second drill pipe through the second toroid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard T. Hay
  • Patent number: 8826993
    Abstract: A damping assembly including a damping device including a body, a piston assembly having a piston rod disposed within the body, a biasing member biasing the piston rod to a position within the body, and a damping block connected to and movable with the piston rod; and, a connector associated with a downhole tool and connectable to the damping device; and wherein the damping device reduces effects of shocks experienced by the downhole tool via the damping block. Also included is a method of reducing impact of shocks on a downhole tool during tripping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Christopher W. Guidry, William A. Hered
  • Patent number: 8820403
    Abstract: A rope socket comprises a slip cone subassembly having a straight outer diameter and a tapered inner diameter. A plurality of slips is positioned within the slip cone body. A retainer ring holds the slips together. A guide plug is positioned within the slips to maintain the slips in an opening position during insertion of a cable. A spring stabilizer having a spring thereon is coupled above the slip cone assembly to ensure even compression of the spring. A safety slot is located on the body of the rope socket in order to provide a visual indication of the cable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: James R. Streater, Jr., Troy M. Hudson, Michael S. Krauel
  • Publication number: 20140238692
    Abstract: A tie back assembly and method of use is presented. In one method, a tie back seal mandrel is inserted into a tie back receptacle. Both the inner surface of the tie back receptacle and the outer surface of the seal mandrel are tapered to cooperate when mated. A seal assembly forms an annular seal between the tapered surfaces when the mandrel is inserted into the receptacle. Preferably the seal assembly has a burst seal and a collapse seal carried on one of the tapered surfaces, where the seals are spaced apart longitudinally. The seals are positioned at locations along the tapered surfaces to provide adequate wall thickness for support at pressure. Hydrostatic fluid in the wellbore increases the force necessary to withdraw the seal mandrel dues to creation of a lower pressure zone between the spaced apart seals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Brock Watson
  • Publication number: 20140238690
    Abstract: A casing pipe assembly can include a first casing pipe having a top coupling member and a pipe curvature, where the top coupling member has first threads in a first direction, and where the pipe curvature substantially corresponds to a wellbore curvature. The casing pipe assembly can also include a second casing pipe having a bottom coupling member and substantially the same pipe curvature, where the bottom coupling member has second threads in a second direction. The casing pipe assembly can further include a coupling device having a bottom coupling member and a top coupling member, where the bottom coupling member has third threads in the first direction that threadably couple to the first threads of the first casing pipe, and where the top coupling member has fourth threads in the second direction that threadably couple to the second threads of the second casing pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: George Taylor Armistead
  • Patent number: 8813839
    Abstract: A system for installing a powered device in a downhole tube, comprising a power line disposed along a production tube and terminating in a first power connector and an orientation profile disposed in the vicinity of the first power connector. An assembly includes a powered device having a second power connector and an extending orientation capable of radial outward movement from the assembly. The powered device being lowered down the production tube, causing the extending orientation to be urged radially outwards to engage with the orientation profile and orient the device, so that the first power connector and second power connector engage to connect the powered device to the power line in an automatic manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Artificial Lift Company
    Inventor: Philip Head
  • Patent number: 8794313
    Abstract: A debris barrier snap fits to a tubular groove of one of the tubulars that define the annular gap in which the barrier is to be mounted. It is loosely mounted so that it can center itself in the annulus as the relatively moving members go out of a concentric arrangement. The continuous carbon fiber material used for the debris barrier has lubricious qualities to act as a bushing when the annulus shape changes due to movement of the tubulars out of a concentric relationship. An outer or inner groove on the barrier acts to trap and retain small particles that manage to advance between the barrier and the outer tubular. The snap fit is accomplished with flexible spaced apart fingers with grip surfaces to engage a groove on one of the tubulars. The barrier has low expansion under thermal loads that acts to stop the entrance of debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donald T. Heckel, James R. Zachman
  • Patent number: 8794337
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for controlling the connection speed of downhole connectors in a subterranean well are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first assembly having a first downhole connector and a first communication medium that is positionable in the well. A second assembly includes a second downhole connector and a second communication medium and has an outer portion and an inner portion that are selectively axially shiftable relative to one another. A lock assembly including at least one lug initially couples the outer and inner portions of the second assembly together such that, upon engagement of the first assembly with the second assembly downhole, the lug is radially shifted releasing the lock assembly to allow axial shifting of the outer portion of the second assembly relative to the inner portion of the second assembly, thereby operatively connecting the first and second downhole connectors to enable communication between the communication media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip Terry Thomas, William Mark Richards, Bryon David Mullen
  • Patent number: 8794314
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drill rod having at least two rod elements, which are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed and detachable manner, wherein the rod elements each have an inner pipe and an outer pipe, between which a ring-shaped receiving space is formed, the rod elements each have an energy and/or data line, which extends along a longitudinal axis of the drill rod, and the energy and/or data lines of the rod elements are each connected to an induction coil, wherein the induction coils can be coupled to each other inductively for energy and/or data transmission along the drill rod. A first rod element has an inner induction coil located at an outer circumference of its inner pipe and a second rod element has an outer induction coil located at an inner circumference of its outer pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Bauer Maschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Stimpfle-Ziegler
  • Publication number: 20140209296
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a transmission line in a downhole component includes: an element coupled to an exterior surface of the transmission line, the transmission line configured to be disposed in a communication conduit that extends through the downhole component, the element configured to restrict axial movement of the transmission line within the communication conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Henning Rahn, Ingo Roders, Detlev Benedict, Robert Buda, Rene Schulz, Stephan Mueller, Volker Peters, Helmut Floerke
  • Patent number: 8770300
    Abstract: A hydraulic connection mechanism for use in a wellbore comprises an upper connection tool, a lower connection tool configured to engage the upper connection tool and form a fluid communication pathway through the hydraulic connection mechanism, and a debris barrier disposed in the fluid communication pathway. The debris barrier comprises a body element, and a spring element configured to maintain the body element in a closed position when the upper connection tool is disengaged from the lower connection tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel D. Shaw, Greg Marshall
  • Publication number: 20140174749
    Abstract: A tool for releasably coupling a coiled tubing string to a primary tubing string includes: a tool body for coupling to a downstream end of the primary tubing string, the tool body comprising a locking mechanism for selectively coupling a coiled tubing end joint to the tool body, the locking mechanism being unlockable in response to fluid pressure inside the tool body exceeding a first threshold; a wellbore access mechanism openable in response to fluid pressure inside the tool exceeding a second threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Chad Barber, Denis Gilbert, Arnoud Struyk
  • Publication number: 20140166308
    Abstract: A key assembly is press fit into an annular space between a box and pin member to resist relative rotation of the box and pin members. The key assembly includes wedge like members that contact one another along complementary tapered surfaces, and when in contact generate radial forces into the box and pin member to secure the connection between the box and pin. The outer wedge is inserted first into the annular space between the box and pin members, and has rows of elongate teeth that project radially outward into contact with an inner surface of the box member. Because the outer wedge is pushed radially outward against the box member rather than axially sliding therebetween, the teeth protrude into the surface of the box member thereby increasing the anti-rotation force created by the outer wedge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Steen, John E. Nelson, Chau Hoang, Daniel C. Benson, Stephen D. Peters
  • Patent number: 8752635
    Abstract: A technique is provided that utilizes one or both of a control line actuation mechanism and a connector protection mechanism for use in a wellbore environment. Upon landing a lower well assembly and an upper well assembly at a desired wellbore location, control line connectors are engaged. The control line actuation mechanism and/or connector protection mechanism facilitate the formation of a desirable control line connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: David Wei Wang, Michael Hui Du, Gary L. Rytlewski, David Verzwyvelt
  • Patent number: 8739865
    Abstract: An end ring for a swell packer for use in a wellbore, wherein the swell packer has a central metal tubular with a rubber exterior tubular disposed over the central metal tubular. The rubber exterior tubular can swell in the presence of a well completion fluid and the end ring can sealingly engage one end of the rubber exterior tubulars disposed over the central metal tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: LB Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Lee Morgan Smith, Betty A. Eastup-Smith
  • Patent number: 8739890
    Abstract: A release system comprises a torsional lock sleeve disposed about a mandrel, and a collet prop engaged with the mandrel. The torsional lock sleeve and the mandrel are configured to substantially prevent rotational movement of the torsional lock sleeve about the mandrel, and the torsional lock sleeve is configured to shift between a first position and a second position with respect to the mandrel. When the torsional lock sleeve is in the first position, the collet prop is retained in engagement with a collet and the collet prop is retained in a torsionally locked engagement with the torsional lock sleeve. The collet prop is configured to longitudinally translate in response to a rotational movement when the torsional lock sleeve is disposed in the second position. A shifting assembly is configured to engage the torsional lock sleeve and shift the torsional lock sleeve from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard P. Noffke
  • Patent number: 8739885
    Abstract: A hydraulic connection mechanism for use in a wellbore comprises an upper connection running tool, a lower connection tool configured to engage the upper connection running tool and form a fluid communication pathway through the hydraulic connection mechanism, and a debris barrier disposed in the fluid communication pathway. The debris barrier comprises a body element, and a spring element configured to maintain the body element in a closed position when the upper connection running tool is disengaged from the lower connection tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel D. Shaw, Greg Marshall
  • Patent number: 8733456
    Abstract: A monobore wellbore apparatus and method of construction. The apparatus includes a series of overlapping expandable liner sections. The overlapping liner sections may be expanded and pressed to provide no gaps along the length of the liner system. The liner sections may include centralizers and/or circumferential seals that provide sealing functions and spaces between the overlapping liner sections. The liner sections may be lined with a suitable sealing material, including an epoxy or may be filled with cement or another desired materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Joerg Lehr, Ines Gruetzmann, Detlev Benedict, Wiebke Schoenebeck, Keven O'Connor, Matthias R. Moeller
  • Patent number: 8733451
    Abstract: A safety joint for use in a subterranean well can include separable portions which, when separated, disconnect sections of a tubular string. Elongation of the safety joint can be permitted while longitudinal compression of the safety joint is prevented. A method of activating a safety joint in a subterranean well can include providing the safety joint with portions having end connectors which interconnect the safety joint between sections of a tubular string, permitting elongation of the safety joint, thereby facilitating disconnection of the tubular string sections, and then preventing longitudinal compression of the safety joint. Another safety joint can include separable portions, and a locking device which permits relative displacement between a generally tubular mandrel and a component of the safety joint in one direction, and prevents relative displacement between the mandrel and the component in an opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Reid E. Zevenbergen, Paul D. Ringgenberg
  • Patent number: 8727019
    Abstract: A method of releasing a safety joint in a subterranean well can include disconnecting a tubular string at the safety joint without rotation of the tubular string. A safety joint for use in a subterranean well can include sections which are separated from each other in response to a predetermined number of relative longitudinal and non-rotational displacements between the safety joint sections. Another method of releasing a safety joint in a subterranean well can include fully actuating a jar multiple times, the jar being interconnected in a same tubular string with the safety joint, and then disconnecting the tubular string at the safety joint in response to non-rotational displacement of the tubular string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul D. Ringgenberg