Automatic Patents (Class 166/53)
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Publication number: 20040084179Abstract: A pumpjack speed control system includes a user interface, a controller and a variable speed drive. The user interface includes a mathematical representation of the pumpjack geometry which permits the conversion of rod speed profiles to crank speed profiles.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Jeff Watson, Ramesh Aggarwal, Hari Upadhyay
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Publication number: 20040084180Abstract: Methods and systems for estimating multi-phase fluid rates in a subterranean well (10). Stored and measured static (40) and transient (44) well conditions are used to model well conditions for comparison against additional transient data (42) relating to temperature, pressure, and flow. Multi-phase fluid rates are estimated by iteratively comparing well conditions with the model (30) for the well (10). Multi-phase fluid flow estimates may be obtained for the various liquid and gaseous fluids in the well (10) at multiple well locations (24).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Piyush C. Shah, Kerry L. Kendrick
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Publication number: 20040069497Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an actuator system having an electrical actuator in hydraulic communication with a hydraulic actuator are described. The apparatus includes a controller module in communication with a source of electrical power and a transceiver. The transceiver is adapted for bi-directional wireless communication with a remote transceiver for the transfer of control data and feedback data. The controller module sends a control signal to the electrical actuator in response to control data received from the remote transceiver. The source of electrical power includes a hydraulic motor and an electrical generator to provide local electrical power from a hydraulic flow. Because the electrical power is generated locally and the control and feedback data are carried over the wireless link, no wires to remote locations are required.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventors: Franklin B. Jones, Stuart A. Jones
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Publication number: 20040065441Abstract: A system is provided for unloading accumulated liquids and enhancing the recovery of gas from a reservoir having diminished pressure. An annulus between a tubing string and casing is isolated by a packer and continually pressurized with a slipstream of compressed gas while the well continues to produce. A unique valve positioned in the tubing string is shuttled between a production position in which production fluids are permitted to bypass the valve to the surface and a lift position in which the bypass is blocked and an unloading port is opened to vent high pressure annulus gas to the tubing string above the valve, lifting accumulated liquids with it. Preferably, the valve is actuated to the lift position by the impact of a plunger dropped from a lubricator at the wellhead, when the pressure in the annulus has reached a predetermined threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2003Publication date: April 8, 2004Inventor: Gordon F. Bosley
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Patent number: 6715550Abstract: A gas-lift well having a controllable gas-lift valve is provided. The well uses the tubing and casing to communicate with and power the controllable valve from the surface. Induction chokes at the surface and downhole electrically isolate the tubing from the casing. A high band-width, adaptable communication system is used to communicate between the controllable valve and the surface. Additional sensors, such as pressure, temperature, and acoustic sensors, may be provided downhole to more accurately assess downhole conditions. The controllable valve is varied opened or closed, depending on downhole conditions, oil production, gas usage and availability, to optimize production and assist in unloading. While conventional, bellows-type, gas-lift valves frequently fail and leak—often undetected—the controllable valve hereof permits known precise operation and concomitant control of the gas-lift well.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2001Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Fred Gordon Carl, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040060703Abstract: A petroleum well having a well casing, a production tubing, a source of time-varying current, a downhole chemical injection device, and a downhole induction choke. The casing extends within a wellbore of the well. The tubing extends within the casing. The current source is located at the surface. The current source is electrically connected to, and adapted to output a time-varying current into, the tubing and/or the casing, which act as electrical conductors for providing downhole power and/or communications. The injection device having a communications and control module, a chemical container, and an electrically controllable chemical injector. The communications and control module is electrically connected to the tubing and/or the casing. The chemical injector is electrically connected to the communications and control module, and is in fluid communication with the chemical container. The downhole induction choke is located about a portion of the tubing and/or the casing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2002Publication date: April 1, 2004Inventors: George Leo Stegemeier, Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Frederick Gordon Carl, Jr., John Michele Hirsch
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Patent number: 6705397Abstract: A method of producing gas through liquid level detection in oil or gas wells uses various types of artificial lift systems that include sub surface gas lift, beam pumps, progressive cavity pump and submersible pumps. The artificial lift systems are controlled in response to a known liquid level within the well bore to prevent the well from pumping off and damaging the artificial lift system or from reducing the liquid level in the well bore to an unnecessarily low level to thereby increase the energy required by the artificial lift system to remove the liquid from the well bore.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Inventor: Michael D. Hershberger
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Publication number: 20040035571Abstract: An auto-cycling plunger including a hollow, longitudinally extending body, at least one first directional outer seal, at least one second directional outer seal and a valve stem. Both the at least one first directional outer seal and the at least one second directional outer seal are disposed on an exterior surface of the body for creating a seal between the body and a well bore. Portions of the seals extend in a direction substantially parallel to the length of the longitudinally extending body such that these portions are spread resiliently outwardly from the body with an applied pressure, thereby increasing the degree of sealing. The first directional outer seal extending in a direction substantially opposite to the direction of the at least one second directional outer seal. The valve stem includes a valve member, extends through the longitudinally extending body, and has actual ends extending from the body. The valve stem is operable to be shuttled between an open and a closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2003Publication date: February 26, 2004Applicant: Synco Tool Company IncorporatedInventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
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Patent number: 6691801Abstract: A load compensator is disclosed for use in connection with a pipe running tool. The load compensator includes an outer housing connected to the portion of the pipe running tool that holds the pipe segment. A piston is disposed within the housing, and is connected to a top drive system of the pipe running tool. The housing is formed with a first port through which pressurized air is delivered inside the housing to drive the piston within the housing. A second port is disposed at a selected location on the housing, such that when the piston is advanced past the second port, pressurized air passes through the port, and causes the control circuit to stop delivering air through the first port. Once pressurized air no longer flows through the second port, the control circuit causes air to be delivered to the first port.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Juhasz, George Boyadjieff, Brian L. Eidem, Hans Van Rijzingen
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Patent number: 6688385Abstract: In a plunger lift oil/gas well a prior art plunger is replaced with a metal ball.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: Otto A. Moe
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Publication number: 20040020860Abstract: A method and an apparatus for separating and measuring solids from multi-phase well fluids. The apparatus comprises a separator; an upper solids level and a lower solids level sensor, both connected to the separator; a dump valve operatively connected to the separator; and a control module operatively connected to the dump valve to move the dump valve between an open and a closed position. The upper solids level sensor generates a first signal when the upper level of accumulated solids within the separator reaches a pre-determined upper level. The lower solids level sensor generates a second signal when the upper level of accumulated solids within the separator reaches a pre-determined lower level. The control module receives the first and second generated signals such that upon receipt of the first signal the control module causes the dump valve to open and upon receipt of the second signal the control module causes the dump valve to close.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2002Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: Kevin Schmigel, David Speed, Peter Stefureak
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Patent number: 6679332Abstract: A petroleum well has an electronic module and a number of sensors which communicate with the surface using the tubing string and casing as conductors. Induction chokes at the surface and downhole electrically impede AC flow through the (tubing or casing if so configured) with the resulting voltage potential useful for power and communication. A high bandwidth, adaptable spread spectrum communications system is used to communicate between the downhole electronics module and a surface master spread spectrum modem. Downhole sensors, such as pressure, temperature, acoustic and seismic sensors accurately assess downhole physical conditions. In a preferred form, the electronics module and sensors are wireline insertable and retrievable into a side pocket mandrel in the tubing string.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2001Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Frederick Gordon Carl, Jr.
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Patent number: 6672392Abstract: Natural gas produced from a well by executing a multiple-phase gas recovery cycle which includes a phase during which a relatively lower evacuation pressure is applied within the entire well bore to assist in accumulating liquids at a well bottom. The relatively lower evacuation pressure augments the national earth formation pressure to produce natural gas and liquid more rapidly. The phases of the gas recovery cycle are also coordinated with the phase in which the relatively lower evacuation pressure is applied throughout the well to facilitate a greater natural gas production rate.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Donald D. Reitz
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Patent number: 6662875Abstract: A current impedance device for routing a time-varying electrical current in a piping structure comprising an induction choke. The induction choke is generally concentric about a portion of the piping structure such that during operation a voltage potential forms between the piping structure and an electrical return when the time-varying electrical current is transmitted through and along the piping structure, and such that during operation part of the current can be routed through a device electrically connected to the piping structure due to the voltage potential formed. The induction choke may be unpowered and may comprise a ferromagnetic material. A system for defining an electrical circuit in a piping structure using at least one unpowered ferromagnetic induction choke, comprises an electrically conductive portion of the piping structure, a source of time-varying current, at least one induction choke, a device, and an electrical return.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2001Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Ronald Marshall Bass, Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Frederick Gordon Carl, Jr., John Michele Hirsch, George Leo Stegemeier
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Patent number: 6648073Abstract: A system for controlling fluid flow from multiple isolated producing zones in a well is provided. Components of the system are placeable in and retrievable from bottom entry side pocket mandrel sections permanently installed in a production tubing string in the well. These components include retrievable isolation valve modules. Control signals for modules are developed either downhole or at the surface and modules may be placed or retrieved through the production tubing without pulling the production tubing from the well. In high flow rate applications the sliding sleeve flow control valve of the present invention provides a variable aperture valve having a fully open cross sectional area equal to that of the production tubing, thereby achieving a minimal pressure drop across the valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1999Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Inventors: Kerry D. Jernigan, Phillip S. Sizer, Mark S. Crawford
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Patent number: 6644399Abstract: An auto-cycling plunger including a hollow, longitudinally extending body and at least one first directional outer seal disposed on an exterior surface of the body for creating a seal between the body and a well bore. A portion of the seal is spread resiliently outwardly from the body with an applied pressure, thereby increasing the degree of sealing. The plunger also includes a valve stem including a valve member. The valve stem extends through the body and has actuable ends extending from the body. The valve stem includes an actuating head external to and proximal a first end of the body, the head being larger than the internal diameter of the first end of the body. The valve stem can be shuttled between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the valve member is longitudinally spaced from a valve seat on the body to allow fluid flow through the body. In the closed position, the valve member is seated on the valve seat, thereby sealing the body and preventing fluid flow therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Synco Tool Company IncorporatedInventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
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Patent number: 6640896Abstract: This invention relates to a mechanical oil recovery method and system with a sucker-rod pump. The method calculates the lowest power loss or the lowest cost. The method comprises sequentially arranging internal diameter, steel grade of rod, pump diameter, pumping depth and stroke amplitude, searching the combinations of rods to calculate pump efficiency and the number of strokes, on the basis of Pinput=Pactive−Pexpansion+Ploss, and calculating, corresponding to the input power Pinput, active power Pactive, expansion power Ppeng, ground power loss Pd, sliding power loss Ph and viscose power loss Pv and the sum of losses Ploss. The mechanical oil-recovering cost is then calculated for each combination, and each mechanical oil-recovering parameter is chosen.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignees: China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, Jiangsu Oil Field Branch of China Petroleum & Chemical CorporationInventor: Haijin Zheng
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Publication number: 20030201098Abstract: Systems and methods of using a computer system to simulate a process for in situ treatment of a hydrocarbon containing formation are provided. The in situ process may include providing heat from one or more heat sources to at least one portion of the formation. The in situ process may, in some embodiments, include allowing the heat to transfer from the one or more heat sources to a selected section of the formation. In some embodiments, the method may include operating the in situ process using one or more operating parameters. At least one operating parameter of the in situ process may be provided to the computer system. In certain embodiments, at least one parameter may be used with a simulation method and the computer system to provide assessed information about the in situ process.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2002Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventors: John Michael Karanikas, Ilya Emil Berchenko, Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, Jean-Charles Ginestra, Kirk Samuel Hansen, Lanny Gene Schoeling, Gordon Thomas Shahin, Meliha Deniz Sumnu-Dindoruk, Harold J. Vinegar
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Patent number: 6637512Abstract: A stick launcher and method for launching soap sticks into a gas or oil well. The stick launcher comprises a containment vessel adapted to house the soap sticks, the containment vessel comprising a contiguous wall and a top and a bottom. A turret-style separator is positioned within the containment vessel, the separator comprising blades, and adapted to contain the soap sticks between the blades of the turret-styled separator and the contiguous wall of the containment vessel. A ball valve is positioned adjacent the bottom of the containment vessel, the ball valve, when in open position, adapted to be in fluid communication with a well bore and the containment vessel. A rotating assembly, when set in motion by an actuator, is used to rotate the separator and simultaneously open or close the ball valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Inventor: Dan Casey
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Publication number: 20030183394Abstract: Natural gas produced from a well by executing a multiple-phase gas recovery cycle which includes a phase during which a relatively lower evacuation pressure is applied within the entire well bore to assist in accumulating liquids at a well bottom. The relatively lower evacuation pressure augments the national earth formation pressure to produce natural gas and liquid more rapidly. The phases of the gas recovery cycle are also coordinated with the phase in which the relatively lower evacuation pressure is applied throughout the well to facilitate a greater natural gas production rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventor: Donald D. Reitz
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Patent number: 6619388Abstract: The present invention is a surface controlled subsurface safety valve (SCSSV) for use in a well, preferably a hydrocarbon producing well. The SCSSV comprises a valve body having a longitudinal bore for fluid to flow through, a bore closure assembly, a pressure balanced drive assembly, and a fail safe assembly. The bore closure assembly is positioned and normally biased to close the bore to fluid flow. The drive assembly is coupled to the bore closure assembly for driving the bore closure assembly to an open position. The fail safe assembly is positioned and configured to hold the bore closure assembly in the open position in response to a hold signal and to release the valve to return to the safe, closed position upon interruption of the hold signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Wesley P. Dietz, Robert A. Rademaker, Ronald W. McGregor, Bruce E. Scott
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Patent number: 6615924Abstract: Apparatus and system control for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising a winch for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, and a bailer tube housing assembly axially aligned with the well casing. Natural gas is exhausted and recovered. The bailer tube is capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing such that captured oil can be diverted and discharged into the temporary storage tank. Sensors monitor operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller provides system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Global Energy Research, LLCInventor: Timothy F. Rice
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Patent number: 6615917Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for controlling and monitoring injection zone and production zone parameters in order to control the injected fluid front to avoid breakthrough of the injected fluid to the production zone and thus optimize hydrocarbon recovery.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Terry R. Bussear, Kevin R. Jones
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Patent number: 6615925Abstract: Apparatus and system control and method for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising a winch for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, and a bailer tube housing assembly axially aligned with the well casing. Natural gas is exhausted and recovered. The bailer tube is capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing such that captured oil can be diverted and discharged into the temporary storage tank. Sensors for monitoring operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller for providing system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence are included.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Global Energy Research LLCInventor: Timothy F. Rice
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Patent number: 6612547Abstract: Several downhole flow control devices are disclosed which are meterable and are also capable of shutting of a particular zone in a well. The several embodiments include a multiple valve body, a toroidal inflatable valve, and a series of related choke systems. The downhole flow control choke mechanisms each include a downhole electronics package to provide programming or decision making capacity as well as motor actuation systems. Each choke mechanism also includes a system whereby the device can be converted to manual operation and actuated by a conventional shifting tool.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Michael A. Carmody, Kevin R. Jones, Robert J. Coon, Douglas J. Murray, Mark E. Hopmann, Steven L. Jennings, Brian A. Roth
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Publication number: 20030150621Abstract: A method of isolating a reservoir of production fluid in a formation comprises providing a pair of valves (14, 16) in a bore intersecting a production formation and in which the hydrostatic pressuer in the bore at the formation is normally lower than the formation pressure, and then ontrolling the valves (14, 16) from surface such that the valves (14, 16) will only move from a closed configuration to an open configuration on experiencing a predetermined differential pressure across the valves.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2002Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Giancarlo Tomasso Pietro Pia
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Publication number: 20030145986Abstract: In a production system for producing oil or gas from a well, the production system including a plunger in well tubing, and a motor valve in a sales line connected to a plunger lubricator which connects to the well tubing, a differential pressure controller system includes: a) a plunger arrival sensor; b) a plunger cycle controller receptive to signals from the plunger arrival sensor and receptive to signals from pressure transducers, for controlling the cycle of the plunger; c) a differential pressure controller; d) a first pressure transducer conductively coupled to the differential pressure controller, for measuring pressure in the well tubing, e) a second pressure transducer conductively coupled to the differential pressure controller for measuring pressure in the sales line; and f) a solenoid valve conductively coupled to the differential pressure controller and connected to the motor valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2002Publication date: August 7, 2003Applicant: Scientific MicroSystems, Inc.Inventors: Rick Evans, Michael A. Oehlert
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Publication number: 20030141051Abstract: An auto-cycling plunger for use in lifting a fluid out of a well bore. The auto-cycling plunger includes a hollow, longitudinally extending body and at least one first directional outer seal disposed on an exterior surface of the body for creating a seal between the body and a well bore. At least a portion of the at least one first directional outer seal extends in a direction substantially parallel to a length of the longitudinally extending body. The portion of the first directional outer seal is spread resiliently outwardly from the body with an applied pressure, thereby increasing the degree of sealing. The auto-cycling plunger also includes a valve stem including a valve member, the valve stem extending through the longitudinally extending body and having actuable ends extending from the body. The valve stem is operable to be shuttled between an open position and a closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2002Publication date: July 31, 2003Applicant: SYNCO TOOL COMPANY INCORPORATEDInventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
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Patent number: 6591914Abstract: A hydraulic control system and associated methods provides selective control of operation of multiple well tool assemblies. In a described embodiment, a hydraulic control system includes multiple control modules, each of which has a member that is displaceable to multiple predetermined positions to thereby select a corresponding one of multiple well tool assemblies for operation thereof. When the member of a certain control module is in a selected position, an actuator of a corresponding one of the well tool assemblies is placed in fluid communication with a flowpath connected to the control module. The members of the multiple control modules are displaced simultaneously in response to pressure on a line connected to each of the control modules.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Hallliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Jimmie R. Williamson, Jr.
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Publication number: 20030121656Abstract: A method of producing gas through liquid level detection in oil or gas wells uses various types of artificial lift systems that include sub surface gas lift, beam pumps, progressive cavity pump and submersible pumps. The artificial lift systems are controlled in response to a known liquid level within the well bore to prevent the well from pumping off and damaging the artificial lift system or from reducing the liquid level in the well bore to an unnecessarily low level to thereby increase the energy required by the artificial lift system to remove the liquid from the well bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2002Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventor: Michael D. Hershberger
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Virtual sensors to provide expanded downhole instrumentation for electrical submersible pumps (ESPs)
Patent number: 6585041Abstract: Complex algorithms and calculations such as multi-phase flow correlations, together with mathematical models which include the dynamic behavior of the wellbore or artificial lift equipment and the components therein (e.g., a variable speed drive, power cable, seal and pump) are employed to derive or compute information relevant to production based upon actual measurements made during operation. The derived or computed values, typically for parameters such as torque which are difficult to measure during operation, are provided with the measurements for control purposes. Improved optimization of production based on an expanded set of parameters is therefore enabled.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Alexander Crossley -
Publication number: 20030066649Abstract: A subterranean well production system utilizes a single well to perform both hydrocarbon fluid production and water dumpflooding processes. The well has a primary wellbore that is communicated with first and second subterranean zones respectively containing hydrocarbon fluid and higher pressure water. A second, lateral wellbore extends from the primary wellbore and communicates with the first zone. A remotely controllable routing system, including a valved production tubing structure extending through the primary wellbore, is operable to (1) flow hydrocarbon fluid from the first zone to the surface via the production tubing and (2) simultaneously dumpflood water from the second zone into the first zone, via the production tubing, to increase the pressure within the first zone and thereby increase the hydrocarbon fluid production rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Inventors: Leo W. Koot, Michael R. Konopczynski
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Publication number: 20030051873Abstract: A control system and method for determining optimal fluid injection pressure is based upon a model of a growing hydrofracture due to waterflood injection pressure. This model is used to develop a control system optimizing the injection pressure by using a prescribed injection goal coupled with the historical times, pressures, and volume of injected fluid at a single well. In this control method, the historical data is used to derive two major flow components: the transitional component, where cumulative injection volume is scaled as the square root of time, and a steady-state breakthrough component, which scales linearly with respect to time. These components provide diagnostic information and allow for the prevention of rapid fracture growth and associated massive water break through that is an important part of a successful waterflood, thereby extending the life of both injection and associated production wells in waterflood secondary oil recovery operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2002Publication date: March 20, 2003Inventors: Tadeusz Wiktor Patzek, Dimitriy Borisovich Silin, Asoke Kumar De
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Publication number: 20030034161Abstract: Apparatus and system control and method for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising winch means for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, a bailer tube housing assembly axially aligned with the well casing, means for exhausting and recovering a natural gas, the bailer tube being capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing such that captured oil can be diverted and discharged into the temporary storage tank, sensors for monitoring operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller means for providing system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Global Energy Research, LLCInventor: Timothy F. Rice
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Patent number: 6516879Abstract: A method of producing gas through liquid level detection in oil or gas wells uses various types of artificial lift systems that include sub surface gas lift, beam pumps, progressive cavity pump and submersible pumps. The artificial lift systems are controlled in response to a known liquid level within the well bore to prevent the well from pumping off and damaging the artificial lift system or from reducing the liquid level in the well bore to an unnecessarily low level to thereby increase the energy required by the artificial lift system to remove the liquid from the well bore.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1998Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventor: Michael D. Hershberger
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Virtual sensors to provide expanded downhole instrumentation for electrical submersible pumps (ESPs)
Publication number: 20030015320Abstract: Complex algorithms and calculations such as multi-phase flow correlations, together with mathematical models which include the dynamic behavior of the wellbore or artificial lift equipment and the components therein (e.g., a variable speed drive, power cable, seal and pump) are employed to derive or compute information relevant to production based upon actual measurements made during operation. The derived or computed values, typically for parameters such as torque which are difficult to measure during operation, are provided with the measurements for control purposes. Improved optimization of production based on an expanded set of parameters is therefore enabled.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2001Publication date: January 23, 2003Inventor: Alexander Crossley -
Publication number: 20030010502Abstract: A method and system for optimizing the performance of a rotodynamic multi-phase flow booster, such as a wet gas compressor (1), utilizes a meter which measures the fluid density &rgr; upstream of the booster and controls the speed of rotation &OHgr; of the rotor(s) of the booster, such that the booster operates at its best efficiency point (BEP) irrespective of variations of the fluid density &rgr;. Suitably the flow booster is a wet gas compressor (1) having rotor and/or stator blades having a rough leading edge and non-wettable sides which promote a favorable finely dispersed mist flow so that the compressor (1) also operates at its BEP if the compressed wet gas has a high liquid content.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2002Publication date: January 16, 2003Inventors: Raimo Edwin Gregor Poorte, Paulus Henricus Joannes Verbeek
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Publication number: 20030010491Abstract: An oil well pumping system includes a small positive displacement pump below the fluid interface in a low volume oil well which pumps at a rate to maintain approximately constant fluid level in the well. The system includes at least a pair of sensors in a sensor array that is positioned above the pump and near the fluid interface to unambiguously determine liquid level. By maintaining the pumping rate of the positive displacement pump below that required to lower the liquid level to the pump, the pump will not unload and pump power requirements are reduced to a nearly constant low rate. In addition, the pump off control function is accomplished by a microprocessor which is mounted adjacent to the downhole sensor array. This location allows simple direct control of the downhole electric motor and eliminates the requirement that a control element be placed on the surface far from the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2001Publication date: January 16, 2003Inventor: Herman D. Collette
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Patent number: 6505682Abstract: A tubing is used in a well bore capable of furnishing a well fluid. The tubing has an annular member having a passageway. The tubing has at least one port that is connected to detect a composition of the well fluid and control flow of the well fluid into the passageway based on the composition.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2000Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Mark W. Brockman
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Publication number: 20020189815Abstract: A technique for controlling fluid production in a deviated wellbore is disclosed. The technique utilizes a flow pipe the interior of which is in hydraulic communication with the earth's surface. A plurality of flow control valves are disposed at spaced apart positions along the length of the flow pipe. The flow control valves are used to regulate flow along intervals of the flow pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: Craig D. Johnson, Gary Martin Oddie
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Patent number: 6491828Abstract: A contaminated aqueous composition is withdrawn from a groundwater extraction well and the groundwater is treated in a pump and treat system to remove a contaminant. The treating of the aqueous composition is monitored from a location remote from the groundwater extraction well and the treating is adjusted to remove a contaminant in accordance with the monitoring. A system to treat a contaminated aqueous composition comprises a capture zone to intercept a contaminated aqueous composition and a surface pump and treat system to receive and treat the contaminated aqueous composition from the capture zone. The system also includes a sensor that senses a contaminant in the contaminated aqueous composition and a monitor to receive information concerning the contaminant from the sensor and to consequently control the pump and treat system to treat the contaminated aqueous composition. The monitor is situated at a location remote from the pump and treat system.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Timothy Mark Sivavec, Patricia Denise Mackenzie, Sunita Singh Baghel, Joseph James Salvo
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Publication number: 20020174983Abstract: An improved, unattended, liquid pumping device for oil and gas wells featuring a bellows controlled flow valve that opens and closes at preset pressures. Additionally a well head receiver design that releases shut in production gas below the pumping device and provides a positive pressure differential across the pumping device prior to valve opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: Gerald L. Swoyer, Charles H. Hunt, Paul M. Yaniga, Richard J. Bordogna
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Patent number: 6484800Abstract: Several downhole flow control devices are disclosed which are meterable and are also capable of shutting of a particular zone in a well. The several embodiments include a multiple valve body, a toroidal inflatable valve, and a series of related choke systems. The downhole flow control choke mechanisms each include a downhole electronics package to provide programming or decision making capacity as well as motor actuation systems. Each choke mechanism also includes a system whereby the device can be converted to manual operation and actuated by a conventional shifting tool.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Michael A. Carmody, Kevin R. Jones, Robert J. Coon, Douglas J. Murray, Mark E. Hopmann, Steven L. Jennings, Brian A. Roth
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Patent number: 6481499Abstract: This is a high-efficiency item of equipment, for example for a well bottom for separating out gas from a liquid/gas mixture, based on the effects of flows of the cascade and segregated types. It consists basically of a sedimentation vessel whose lateral surface has holes in the upper portion, enclosing (i) a discharge pump, (ii) a suction pipe and (iii) the lower end of a production tubing. The vessel contains helicoidal surfaces for achieving segregated-type flow. A significant part of separation takes place above the level of the separator, in a medium in which there is a predominance of gas and the flow is in the form of a cascade.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.Inventor: Divonsir Lopes
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Patent number: 6478089Abstract: An automatic chemical stick loader apparatus for gas wells, including a storage and dispensing cabinet at ground level, for sequentially feeding sticks therefrom, a launch tube for sequentially receiving sticks and elevating them to the top of a well head, and a stick loader atop the well for receiving a stick from the launch tube, dropping the stick into a chamber, pressure isolating the chamber and pressure equalizing it with well pressure, and dropping the stick into the well. The apparatus is controlled by an electronic controller which may be solar powered. The apparatus is operated by well gas, the pressure thereof being regulated down to 20 psi or so.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Inventors: Lee Alves, Kennith Shade
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Patent number: 6470970Abstract: A system for transmitting hydraulic control signals or hydraulic power to downhole well tools while significantly reducing the number of hydraulic lines required. Hydraulic control signals are furnished at relatively low pressures to actuate a selected well tool, and the hydraulic pressure is selectively increased over a threshold level to provide hydraulic power to the well tool. The hydraulic control actuation signals can be controlled by selectively pressurizing different hydraulic lines in a selected sequence and by selectively powering the fluid pressure within a selected hydraulic line. The combination of selective sequential actuation and selective fluid pressure provides multiple actuation combinations for selectively actuating downhole well tools. Additional combinations can be provided by changing the pressurization sequence, magnitude, absolute time, duration, and pressurization profile within a discrete time period.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2000Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Welldynamics Inc.Inventors: Dan Purkis, Brett Bouldin, Richard Rubbo
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Publication number: 20020153134Abstract: A method of managing work orders that well companies issue to contractors working at remote well sites, involves a wireless communication link between two computers. Work orders specifying work to be done to a well are stored on a home base computer. Using the wireless communication link, the work orders are communicated to a mobile computer at the well site. This allows a contractor to refer to the work order while the work is being performed, and allows the contractor to immediately notify the well company when the job is done. The mobile computer can be transported between well sites by carrying the computer on a service vehicle, which the contractor uses in performing service operations specified in work orders. While the service vehicle is at a well site, other independent contractors can share the same computer, thus creating a central station for collecting and displaying work order related information.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2001Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
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Publication number: 20020144816Abstract: Apparatus and system control for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising winch means for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, first, second and third bailer tube guide pipes axially aligned to each other, means for exhausting and recovering a natural gas, the bailer tube being capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing through the temporary storage tank such that captured oil can be discharged into the temporary storage tank, sensors for monitoring operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller means for providing system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2001Publication date: October 10, 2002Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
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Publication number: 20020144821Abstract: Apparatus and system control for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising winch means for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, a bailer tube housing assembly axially aligned with the well casing, means for exhausting and recovering a natural gas, the bailer tube being capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing such that captured oil can be diverted and discharged into the temporary storage tank, sensors for monitoring operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller means for providing system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2001Publication date: October 10, 2002Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
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Patent number: 6460622Abstract: Apparatus and system control for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising winch means for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, first, second and third bailer tube guide pipes axially aligned to each other, means for exhausting and recovering a natural gas, the bailer tube being capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing through the temporary storage tank such that captured oil can be discharged into the temporary storage tank, sensors for monitoring operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller means for providing system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Global Energy Research, LLCInventor: Timothy F. Rice