Freeing Stuck Object, Grappling Or Fishing In Well Patents (Class 166/301)
  • Patent number: 8201629
    Abstract: A staging tool arrangement for gas well production assistance, comprising an elongated staging tool having an elongated upper portion and an elongated lower portion. The upper portion has a sliding relationship with the lower portion thereof. A displaceable annular seal is arranged about the lower portion. A displaceable enclosure is arranged on the elongated lower portion so as to slidably expose and to slidably enclose the annular seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Well Master Corp.
    Inventor: David A. Green
  • Publication number: 20120145395
    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: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: JAMES R. STREATER, JR., Troy M. Hudson, Michael S. Krauel
  • Publication number: 20120145396
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for selectively releasing a first wellbore component to a second wellbore component using a disconnect device. The method includes coupling a disconnect device to a workstring and a downhole tool; performing a downhole operation using the downhole tool, and selectively releasing an upper portion of the disconnect device from a lower portion of the disconnect device, thereby releasing the downhole tool from the workstring. The method may also include reconnecting the upper portion of the disconnect device to the lower portion of the disconnect device. The disconnect device is capable of transferring torque to the wellbore component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: Jerry W. Fisher, Thomas M. Redlinger, Carl J. Wilson, Mary L. Laird
  • Patent number: 8191623
    Abstract: A shifting tool is run on slickline and has an on board power supply. Rotary motion of the motor is converted to linear motion of the shifting tool using a ball screw device. The grip is obtained with longitudinal motion of a grip linkage and an on board jar then can do the shifting. Alternatively a linear motor can be used to extend and retract the grip assembly and shift using the jar tool. Optionally the tool can be anchored and linear motion from the on board power source operating a motor can do the shifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Gerald D. Lynde, Yang Xu
  • Patent number: 8191626
    Abstract: A tool having a first lower sub end, a second upper sub end, and an extensible joint connecting the first and second sub ends. The joint has a first inner latch piece connected to the lower sub end, and a second outer latch piece connected to the upper sub end, and a stationary restraining collar. The joint, in a latched position, has the outer latch piece latched to the inner latch piece and the inner and outer latch pieces restrained from unlatching by the restraining collar. The joint, under tensile force, unlatches into an unlatched position by the inner latch piece pulling the outer latch piece through the restraining collar into a position where the inner and outer latch pieces are free to separate. An impact force is generated from the tensile force when the joint unlatches and reaches a maximum extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Impact Selector, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason A. Hradecky
  • Publication number: 20120125612
    Abstract: A device with an overshot including a first part with an elongated body adapted to be connected to a hoisting line in one end and with a tubular opening arranged/designed to receive a spearhead in the other end. The overshot further includes a second part with a scissor like mechanism including two lifting dogs arranged to pivot around a common pivot pin. The lifting dogs are connected via a biasing unit and the elongated body includes a central, axially extending slot. The scissor like mechanism is arranged with the common pivot pin sliding in the slot between a first end position where the biasing unit is arranged to close the lifting dogs such that a spearhead received in the tubular opening is locked and a second end position where an opener including an opening pin is arranged to force the lifting dogs open against the force of the biasing unit, such that a spearhead received in the tubular opening is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: ATLAS COPCO CRAELIUS AB
    Inventor: Patrick Salvador
  • Publication number: 20120118571
    Abstract: A downhole tool incorporates a junk catcher with full body casing drift. It is made of an inner tubular member that conveys the hydraulic power or circulating fluid to rearward and outward facing jet nozzles for directly flushing downhole junks in front of the tool (if encountered) into a junk collecting barrel equipped with individual magnets to retain magnetically attractive metal junks. The barrel is made of high grade steel material with outer diameter matching the full drift of wellbore casing. The front, or the lower end of the outer body is addressed with tungsten carbide cutters to effectively handle metal junks in case of milling action is required. The back, or upper end of the barrel has return flow ports equipped with a filter screen to retain small, medium and large size junks while fluid is pumped through the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Shaohua Zhou
  • Publication number: 20120090843
    Abstract: The invention relates to oil and gas industry and can be used in well drilling as a part of a Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) to releasing stuck tools or equipment by applying axial and torque impacts. The claimed jar allows to increase the effectiveness of BHA operation in well drilling, especially when BHA comprises a telescopic system, since exception of unauthorized accidental operations of a jar substantially reduces the risk of failure in telescopic system electronic components, make the drilling process more predictable and enhance endurance of a jar itself. In case of emergency, the probability of retrieving stuck assembly will be incomparably higher, since the claimed jar provides the possibility to make simultaneously axial and torque impacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Yunir Gafurovich VAGAPOV, Gniyatulla Garifullovich ISHBAEV, Samat Yunirovich VAGAPOV
  • Patent number: 8141634
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for selectively releasing a first wellbore component to a second wellbore component using a disconnect device. The method includes coupling a disconnect device to a workstring and a downhole tool; performing a downhole operation using the downhole tool, and selectively releasing an upper portion of the disconnect device from a lower portion of the disconnect device, thereby releasing the downhole tool from the workstring. The method may also include reconnecting the upper portion of the disconnect device to the lower portion of the disconnect device. The disconnect device is capable of transferring torque to the wellbore component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry W. Fisher, Thomas M. Redlinger, Carl J. Wilson, Mary L. Laird
  • Publication number: 20120048553
    Abstract: A fishing tool includes a grapple and an exciter in vibration transmissive communication with the grapple and method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Richard YingQing Xu
  • Publication number: 20120048552
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for fishing a wellbore with wired drill pipe are provided. Embodiments of the invention advantageously identify objects for removal and signal proper attachment therewith. In an embodiment, a method of fishing with wired drill pipe comprising attaching a fishing apparatus to the end of a wired drill pipe string, extending the wired drill pipe string into a wellbore, monitoring signals received through the wired drill pipe string from one or more sensors coupled to the fishing apparatus, and determining proper coupling of the fishing apparatus with one or more objects intended for removal based on the signals received from the sensors is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Tom MacDougall, Gbenga Onadeko
  • Patent number: 8122960
    Abstract: Coiled tubing spears for retrieving a section of cut coiled tubing comprises a mandrel having attachment members, e.g., spears, at upper and lower ends for facilitating connection of the upper end of the mandrel to a spooled section of coiled tubing and the lower end of the mandrel to a section of cut coiled tubing disposed in a wellbore. Coiled tubing spears comprise one or more centralizers that are releasably secured to the mandrel. The centralizer(s) facilitate lining up a lower attachment member, or spear, with the bore of the section of cut coiled tubing so that the mandrel can be secured to the cut coiled tubing for retrieval. During retrieval of the cut coiled tubing, the centralizer(s) are released from the mandrel so that the mandrel and attachment members can continue through an injector head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Alasdair MacDonald, Graeme Kelbie
  • Publication number: 20120037369
    Abstract: Fishing tools for retrieving objects, i.e., “fish,” lodged within a wellbore are disclosed. The fishing tool comprises a tubular member having a tubular member bore with at least one profiled surface or insert disposed within or along the inner wall surface of the tubular member bore. The profiled surface or insert provides a fishing profile shaped to allow a portion of the fish to move past the fishing profile so that the fishing profile is disposed below the portion of the fish. The tubular member can then be actuated, such as through rotation, to align the portion of the fish with a shoulder of the fishing profile. Upward movement of the tool engages the shoulder with the portion of the fish. Continued upward movement of the tool facilitates retrieval of the fish from the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventors: JOE PHILLIP MOIDEL, Jimmy D. Ryan, Clyde F. Akers, James A. Sonnier, Eric P. Rogers
  • Patent number: 8091935
    Abstract: A tubing connection release system. The system includes, a male connector having a profile at one end thereof and receptive to a tubular at the other end thereof, a female connector receptive to a tubular at one end thereof and receptive to the male connector at the other end thereof. The system further includes, a sleeve disposed radially inwardly of the female connector, and a collet having at least one deflectable collet finger disposed radially inwardly of the sleeve. The collet is biased to a position within the female connector whereat the at least one collet finger is supported against radially outward deflection. The collet is further movable by the push-in connector against the bias to a position where the at least one collet finger is radially outwardly unsupported such that the profiled end of the male connector is movable into engagement with the at least one collet finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Barnes Moyes
  • Patent number: 8074716
    Abstract: A fluid bypass tool that can be incorporated into a fishing arrangement between a fluid-operated latching tool and a fluid-operated jarring tool. The latching tool is actuated with fluid from the surface to be latched to and unlatched from a stuck tool in the wellbore. The bypass tool permits fluid flow to the latching tool to be interrupted so that the jarring tool may be operated without risk of inadvertently causing the latching tool to unlatch from the stuck tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Jace E. Melder, Johnny N. Champagne, David W. Coleman
  • Publication number: 20110297380
    Abstract: Methods of jarring include communicating between a surface command device and jars in a drill string, the drill string composed of spaced apart jars positioned in a corresponding plurality of wired and/or wireless pipe sections. The methods include selectively controlling charging, firing, amount of force, and/or direction of force of the jars using digitally-controlled surface command devices. One method includes firing a sub-set or all of the jars in a controlled manner and determining depth of a stuck drill string section through analysis of behavior or performance of the fired jars. Other methods include subsequently firing one or more of the jars again below the stuck drill string section. Other methods include selectively firing, using digital signals from the surface command device, jars sequenced in time so that their forces meet in a constructive or destructive manner at a preselected point in the drill string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicants: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: Mark William Alberty, Warren J. Winters, Nigel Last
  • Patent number: 8066078
    Abstract: An overshot tool is provided for interconnecting and sealing between a lower tubular (C) in a well and an upper tubular (30). A tubular expander sleeve (36) and an overshot sleeve (26) are supported in a well on an upper tubular. The tool housing (60) encloses a plurality of axially stacked pistons (58, 68, 74), which generate an axial force to move the expander sleeve downward and radially expand a portion of a lower tubular to seal between an outer diameter of the lower tubular and an inner diameter of the overshot sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: TIW Corporation
    Inventor: Britt O. Braddick
  • Patent number: 8048828
    Abstract: Fluids and associated methods useful in subterranean applications are provided. More particularly, methods of reducing drill string sticking are provided, which include: providing a spotting fluid composition comprising a water insoluble external phase fluid, a water soluble internal phase fluid, and an ether carboxylic acid emulsifying agent; introducing the spotting fluid to the vicinity of a desired portion of a drill string; and allowing the spotting fluid to interact with a portion of material surrounding the desired portion of the drill string spotting fluid. Compositions are provided that may be useful in subterranean applications for addressing, among other things, drill string sticking problems. Additional optional components may be used, such as viscosifiers, weighting agents, and wetting agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventor: Jay P. Deville
  • Patent number: 8048829
    Abstract: Fluids and associated methods useful in subterranean applications are provided. Compositions are provided that may be useful in subterranean applications for addressing, among other things, drill string sticking problems. More particularly, spotting fluid compositions are provided having a water insoluble external phase fluid; a water soluble internal phase fluid; and an ether carboxylic acid emulsifying agent. Additional optional components may be used, such as viscosifiers, weighting agents, and wetting agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventor: Jay P. Deville
  • Publication number: 20110226478
    Abstract: A wellbore plug and method for retrieving two or more wellbore plugs simultaneously from the wellbore. The wellbore plug can be actuated to an open position and released from engagement in the wellbore. The plug can be locked in an open position, and remain in an open position without regard to weight or tension applied to the plug. The released and locked open plug can be lowered to next plug to be retrieved. Prior to connecting to the next plug, reverse and/or normal fluid circulation can be utilized to clean the next plug. Upon connecting the first plug to the second plug, the second plug can be locked open and released in by applying tension in the same manner as the first plug. The process can continue to retrieve multiple plugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: J. Dale Horton
  • Publication number: 20110220358
    Abstract: A sugar-based assembly is provided for the removal of a component from a reservoir or process fluid. The sugar-based assembly comprises a sugar optionally bound to a support, and where the support is present, the sugar is bound directly to the support or via a linker group, and the use of the sugar-based assembly in methods of purification of reservoir or process fluids, including subterranean reservoir and process fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Kay Robinson, Nathan Lawrence, Andrew Meredith
  • Patent number: 8002032
    Abstract: A hydraulic overshot apparatus designed to slide over plain end tubing and set by applying hydraulic fluid, under pressure, via a hydraulic setting port, into a center chamber which allows pressure to direct to two different piston areas. The setting piston compresses packer elements and tubing slips against the outer diameter (O.D.) of the tubing. The test piston compresses tubing test elements against the inner diameter (I.D.) of the tubing. The setting pressure is ported through the upper setting and test portion to allow pressure to move from the center chamber to the lower outer portion. The lower outer portion includes a body lock ring and a setting piston for setting the packer elements. Setting pressure moves the setting piston down through the body lock ring. As the setting piston moves down, it ratchets down through the body lock ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Blowout Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Cenac, Fredrick Wong
  • Patent number: 8002036
    Abstract: A tubing connection release system. The system includes, a male connector having a profile at one end thereof and receptive to a tubular at the other end thereof, a female connector receptive to a tubular at one end thereof and receptive to the male connector at the other end thereof. The system further includes, a sleeve disposed radially inwardly of the female connector, and a collet having at least one deflectable collet finger disposed radially inwardly of the sleeve. The collet is biased to a position within the female connector whereat the at least one collet finger is supported against radially outward deflection. The collet is further movable by the push-in connector against the bias to a position where the at least one collet finger is radially outwardly unsupported such that the profiled end of the male connector is movable into engagement with the at least one collet finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Barnes Moyes
  • Patent number: 7992636
    Abstract: A device for use in retrieving debris from a well, including an elongate body; a main bore extending part way along a length of the body; an opening towards a lower end of the body; a main fluid chamber in the body in fluid communication with the main bore; a flow restriction provided in the main bore, through which fluid flows from the main bore and into the main fluid chamber; at least one chamber outlet for directing fluid from the main fluid chamber into an annulus defined between the device and a well borehole wall; a return flow passage extending between the body opening and the main fluid chamber, for return flow of fluid from the annulus to the main fluid chamber, to facilitate retrieval of debris from the well; and at least one fluid exit, for flow of fluid out of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Group Limited
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Patent number: 7980311
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for equalizing pressure in a gas well are provided. A jar device is coupled to a pump deployed in a gas well between areas of low pressure and high pressure. The jar device includes a mandrel and a no-go sleeve. A jarring tool is operated to transfer an axial force onto the jar device that is large enough to shear a shearable connection between the mandrel and no-go sleeve and thereby cause the mandrel to slide from a first position to a second position with respect to the no-go sleeve. A seal that seals between the no-go sleeve and mandrel when the mandrel is located in the first position is unsealed as a result of the movement of the mandrel and thereby fluid communication is allowed between the area of high pressure and low pressure. This allows for easier retrieval of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Dowling, Jason Kamphaus, Harryson Sukianto, Alain P. Dorel, Joseph Varkey
  • Patent number: 7980310
    Abstract: A backoff sub includes a housing and a backoff facilitator at least partially within the housing. The backoff sub is a part of the string that is stuck and is capable of adding energy to the string within which the sub is disposed to facilitate backing off of a portion of that sting close to a stuck point of that string. A method is included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Carl W. Stoesz, Terry R. Bussear
  • Publication number: 20110146990
    Abstract: A backoff sub includes a housing; and a backoff facilitator at least partially within the housing. Capable of adding energy to a system within which the sub is disposable. A method for managing a stuck string in a wellbore is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: CARL W. STOESZ, TERRY R. BUSSEAR
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20110114317
    Abstract: A grapple for use in an overshot has a tension ring with a reduced helix diameter. However, the helix diameter is not reduced on either sides of the control finger slot to allow the grapple to remain in contact with the control. In the alternative, a composite helix member may be utilized. Another embodiment comprises the inclusion of expansion blades on the inner diameter (“ID”) of the tension ring which allow the grapple to expand substantially before the fish reaches the segments. Another embodiment provides for a control with an offset finger to allow the guide thread ID to be smaller than the bowl helix major ID. Yet another embodiment provides a spiral grapple having grooves along its axis to provide the ability to catch a larger range of fish.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: JAMES R. STREATER, JR., Daniel Hernandez, JR., Jose Saldana
  • Patent number: 7931085
    Abstract: A tubing connection release system. The system includes, a male connector having a profile at one end thereof and receptive to a tubular at the other end thereof, a female connector receptive to a tubular at one end thereof and receptive to the male connector at the other end thereof. The system further includes, a sleeve disposed radially inwardly of the female connector, and a collet having at least one deflectable collet finger disposed radially inwardly of the sleeve. The collet is biased to a position within the female connector whereat the at least one collet finger is supported against radially outward deflection. The collet is further movable by the push-in connector against the bias to a position where the at least one collet finger is radially outwardly unsupported such that the profiled end of the male connector is movable into engagement with the at least one collet finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Barnes Moyes
  • Publication number: 20110088903
    Abstract: A method and equipment for an instrumented tubular joint apparatus for use in a pipe string comprising an upper tubular section with a threaded connection thereabove and an axial passage for fluid to flow through connected to a lower tubular section with a threaded connection therebelow and an axial passage for fluid to flow through, a sensor to measure strain at the instrumented tubular joint, a data recording and transmitting unit operatively connected to the sensor, means to relate the data acquired by the sensor to a surface processing unit; and a mechanism to disconnect the upper section from the lower section after receiving a signal from the surface processing unit. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Olugbenga Adebola Onadeko, Luis Ochoa
  • Publication number: 20110083851
    Abstract: This invention relates to a jar used to dislodge tools stuck in a well. The jar includes two housing portions movable with respect to each other. A release collet forms a portion of one of the housings. A release sleeve is carried by a mandrel and is located within the release collet. After a given amount of movement of the housing with respect to the mandrel, the release mechanism is activated and the two housing sections rapidly move with respect to each other. A hammer portion of the mandrel then strikes an anvil in the anvil housing, thus applying an upward force to the tool lodged in the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Robert W. Evans
  • Patent number: 7905289
    Abstract: A double-acting compounder is disclosed having a first end and a second end, and comprising an outer housing, an upper mandrel, and a lower mandrel. The outer housing defines the first end. The upper mandrel is at least partially disposed telescopically within the outer housing to define an uphole fluid chamber between the upper mandrel and the outer housing, the upper mandrel defining the second end. The lower mandrel is at least partially disposed telescopically within the outer housing to define a downhole fluid chamber between the lower mandrel and the outer housing. The uphole fluid chamber and the downhole fluid chamber each contain fluid, have a variable stroke-dependent volume, and are sealed at an uphole end and a downhole end. The upper mandrel has a first shoulder engagable with and facing a second shoulder of the lower mandrel to move the lower mandrel during at least a portion of a stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventors: David Budney, Craig Budney, Glenn Budney
  • Patent number: 7900695
    Abstract: A well pump device is introduced into a well and connects to a wireline to receive electrical energy from the surface. An electrically driven feed pump connects to and delivers driving fluid to the driving side of an ejector. A hydraulic apparatus uses the well pump device as a pulling tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Tom Unsgaard
  • Patent number: 7894297
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides, among other things, apparatuses and methods for sensing subsurface data. One embodiment comprises borehole conveyance system tool, the borehole conveyance system tool comprising a conveyance, a sensor array disposed on the conveyance, and an acquisition electronics section disposed on the conveyance distal of the sensor array. One embodiment includes at least one downhole tension sensor to help indicate when a tool is stuck and what part of the tool is stuck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Les Nutt, Tsutomu Yamate, Masahiro Kamata
  • Publication number: 20110036564
    Abstract: A bridge plug can be deployed downhole and retrieved using a retrieval tool disposed on jointed or coiled tubing or on another bridge plug. Internally, the bridge plug has a sleeve that is movable on a stem of the plug's tailpiece. When in a first position, the sleeve prevents fluid communication through ports in the stem so that circulated fluid from the retrieval tool can be used to clear debris from the plug during retrieval. When the retrieval tool engages the sleeve in the plug, pulling up on the tool moves the sleeve to an intermediate position in which fluid pressure is equalized across the plug. Further pulling up on the tool locks the sleeve in a further position on the stem so that circulated fluid from the retrieval tool will pass directly to the stem's ports. Movement of the sleeve by the retrieval tool also releases the engaged slips and packing element on the bridge plug's mandrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventor: Scott Williamson
  • Publication number: 20110036574
    Abstract: Coiled tubing spears for retrieving a section of cut coiled tubing comprises a mandrel having attachment members, e.g., spears, at upper and lower ends for facilitating connection of the upper end of the mandrel to a spooled section of coiled tubing and the lower end of the mandrel to a section of cut coiled tubing disposed in a wellbore. Coiled tubing spears comprise one or more centralizers that are releasably secured to the mandrel. The centralizer(s) facilitate lining up a lower attachment member, or spear, with the bore of the section of cut coiled tubing so that the mandrel can be secured to the cut coiled tubing for retrieval. During retrieval of the cut coiled tubing, the centralizer(s) are released from the mandrel so that the mandrel and attachment members can continue through an injector head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventors: Alasdair MacDonald, Graeme Kelbie
  • Publication number: 20110030955
    Abstract: A hydraulically powered fishing tool is provided for retrieving another tool or tubular stuck in a well. A tool housing is supported in a well on a work string, and the housing encloses a plurality of pistons (16, 28, 34) each movable in response to pressurized fluid transmitted through the work string. An anchor (52) axially fixes the position of the tool in the well, and a tool mandrel (40) is axially movable relative to tool housing when the anchor is set. A fishing device (82) engages the another tool or tubular, so that axial movement of the mandrel in response to the plurality of pistons dislodges the stuck tool or tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Britt O. Braddick
  • Publication number: 20110024118
    Abstract: A well fishing method and system is described. In at least one example of the invention, a method of retrieval of material (e.g., a tubing string) having broken control or monitoring lines from a cased well is provided. The method comprises: isolating, from the well casing, broken lines above the material to be retrieved, thereby creating a substantially axial work passage; grasping the material to be removed through the substantially axial work passage; and pulling the material to be retrieved and the restrained lines from the well. Example shrouds, probes and other members are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: Hydrus Corporation, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert P. Davis
  • Publication number: 20110024119
    Abstract: A downhole debris recovery tool including a ported sub coupled to a debris sub, a suction tube disposed in the debris sub, and an annular jet pump sub disposed in the ported sub and fluidly connected to the suction tube is disclosed. A method of removing debris from a wellbore including the steps of lowering a downhole debris removal tool into the wellbore, the downhole debris removal tool having an annular jet pump sub, a mixing tube, a diffuser, and a suction tube, flowing a fluid through a bore of the annular jet pump sub, jetting the fluid from the annular jet pump sub into the mixing tube, displacing an initially static fluid in the mixing tube through the diffuser, thereby creating a vacuum effect in the suction tube to draw a debris-laden fluid into the downhole debris removal tool, and removing the tool downhole debris removal tool from the wellbore after a predetermined time interval is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicants: M-I L.L.C., M-I DRILLING FLUIDS U.K. LIMITED
    Inventors: John C. Wolf, George Telfer, James Atkins
  • Patent number: 7878242
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a method and/or apparatus for deploying wireline tools with a non-electric string. In one embodiment, a method of determining a free point of a tubular string stuck in a wellbore includes deploying a tool string in the stuck tubular with a non-electric string. The free point assembly includes a battery, a controller, and a free point tool. The method further includes activating the free point tool by the controller. The free point tool contacts an inner surface of the stuck tubular string. The method further includes applying a tensile force and/or torque to the stuck tubular string; and measuring a response of the tubular string with the free point tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Gray
  • Patent number: 7874364
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method of jarring with an overpull generator. In one aspect, a method of dislodging an object stuck in a wellbore is provided. The method includes the step of running an assembly into the wellbore on a conveyance member and attaching the assembly to the object, wherein the assembly comprises an overpull generator and a delay force release device. The method also includes the step of generating an overpull force in the wellbore by selectively activating the overpull generator. Additionally, the method includes the step of applying an impact force to the object by activating the delay force release device and releasing the generated overpull force, thereby dislodging the object stuck in the wellbore. In a further aspect, an assembly for dislodging an object stuck in a wellbore is provided. In yet a further aspect, an overpull generator for use in generating an overpull force in a wellbore is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Redlinger, Christopher M. Vreeland
  • Publication number: 20110011588
    Abstract: A fluid bypass tool that can be incorporated into a fishing arrangement between a fluid-operated latching tool and a fluid-operated jarring tool. The latching tool is actuated with fluid from the surface to be latched to and unlatched from a stuck tool in the wellbore. The bypass tool permits fluid flow to the latching tool to be interrupted so that the jarring tool may be operated without risk of inadvertently causing the latching tool to unlatch from the stuck tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Jace E. Melder, Johnny N. Champagne, David W. Coleman
  • Patent number: 7854258
    Abstract: A downhole tool is provided that includes a grip assembly for contacting a well formation. The grip assembly includes a gripper body; and a centralizer that is attached to and radially expandable with respect to the gripper body and that has a geometry which is lockable by a locking device. The grip assembly also includes a force amplifier in force transmitting relation with the centralizer, wherein the force amplifier transfers a force in a first direction to a much larger force in a second direction when the centralizer is locked by the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Todor K. Sheiretov, Dwight C. Chilcoat, Robin A. Ewan, Carl J Roy, Matthew Billingham, Franz Aguirre
  • Patent number: 7828062
    Abstract: An extension sub for a downhole fishing tool, the extension sub comprising a tubular having a threaded pin end and a threaded box end, the tubular having an interior wall defining a bore, and cutting elements fixed to the interior wall of the tubular and extending into the bore of the tubular. Such a device may be referred to as a string shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: David L. Budney
  • Publication number: 20100270018
    Abstract: A packer tool (10) for milling and retrieving a packer from the casing of a well bore is provided. The tool (10) comprises an upper milling portion (14), a lower attachment portion (16) at least partially located within the upper milling portion (14), and a debris retainer (28,128,228) for capturing milled cuttings within the tool (10). A method of milling and retrieving a packer using the tool is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Howlett
  • Publication number: 20100258314
    Abstract: An example of an apparatus for jarring a wellbore tool from an obstruction includes four sub-assemblies in communication with three springs such that the springs may be compressed forcing the subassemblies to become adjacent to one another. When the springs are actuated, the sub-assembly units spring apart from one another force dislodging the lower most sub-assembly component from the obstruction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Dwight Rose
  • Publication number: 20100236782
    Abstract: Following the treatment of formations surrounding an oil, gas or water well, various diameter ceramic balls are retrieved from the downhole equipment by creating a suction force at the earth's surface to cause such balls to be moved into a ball catcher at the earth's surface from which the balls can be collected. The suction force is created by a high pressure fluid intersecting a fluid path between the downhole equipment and the ball catcher. The high pressure fluid is preferably operated at, at least 1,000 psi, and even more preferably, between 5,000 and 10,000 psi.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher P. Bruegger
  • Publication number: 20100206568
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for equalizing pressure in a gas well are provided. A jar device is coupled to a pump deployed in a gas well between areas of low pressure and high pressure. The jar device includes a mandrel and a no-go sleeve. A jarring tool is operated to transfer an axial force onto the jar device that is large enough to shear a shearable connection between the mandrel and no-go sleeve and thereby cause the mandrel to slide from a first position to a second position with respect to the no-go sleeve. A seal that seals between the no-go sleeve and mandrel when the mandrel is located in the first position is unsealed as a result of the movement of the mandrel and thereby fluid communication is allowed between the area of high pressure and low pressure. This allows for easier retrieval of the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael A. Dowling, Jason Kamphaus, Harryson Sukianto, Alain P. Dorel, Joseph Varkey
  • Patent number: RE41759
    Abstract: A lockable swivel (4) for use in drilling applications which allows the operator to selectively engage and disengage the swivel (4). The lockable swivel (4) is comprised of a locking mandrel (7) carried in a body (3) which engages, upon actuation, splined surfaces (20, 21) within the swivel mandrel (5) thereby locking the two together. Various methods for the use of the lockable swivel (4) in wireline and other drilling operations are demonstrated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Charles M. Helms