Automatic Patents (Class 166/53)
  • Publication number: 20040084179
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Jeff Watson, Ramesh Aggarwal, Hari Upadhyay
  • Publication number: 20040084180
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Piyush C. Shah, Kerry L. Kendrick
  • Publication number: 20040069497
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Franklin B. Jones, Stuart A. Jones
  • Publication number: 20040065441
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Gordon F. Bosley
  • Patent number: 6715550
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Fred Gordon Carl, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040060703
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: George Leo Stegemeier, Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Frederick Gordon Carl, Jr., John Michele Hirsch
  • Patent number: 6705397
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Michael D. Hershberger
  • Publication number: 20040035571
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: Synco Tool Company Incorporated
    Inventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
  • Patent number: 6691801
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Juhasz, George Boyadjieff, Brian L. Eidem, Hans Van Rijzingen
  • Patent number: 6688385
    Abstract: In a plunger lift oil/gas well a prior art plunger is replaced with a metal ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Otto A. Moe
  • Publication number: 20040020860
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Kevin Schmigel, David Speed, Peter Stefureak
  • Patent number: 6679332
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Frederick Gordon Carl, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6672392
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Donald D. Reitz
  • Patent number: 6662875
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Ronald Marshall Bass, Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Frederick Gordon Carl, Jr., John Michele Hirsch, George Leo Stegemeier
  • Patent number: 6648073
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Kerry D. Jernigan, Phillip S. Sizer, Mark S. Crawford
  • Patent number: 6644399
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Synco Tool Company Incorporated
    Inventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
  • Patent number: 6640896
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignees: China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, Jiangsu Oil Field Branch of China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Haijin Zheng
  • Publication number: 20030201098
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: 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
  • Patent number: 6637512
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Dan Casey
  • Publication number: 20030183394
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Donald D. Reitz
  • Patent number: 6619388
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Wesley P. Dietz, Robert A. Rademaker, Ronald W. McGregor, Bruce E. Scott
  • Patent number: 6615924
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Global Energy Research, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
  • Patent number: 6615917
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Terry R. Bussear, Kevin R. Jones
  • Patent number: 6615925
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Global Energy Research LLC
    Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
  • Patent number: 6612547
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael A. Carmody, Kevin R. Jones, Robert J. Coon, Douglas J. Murray, Mark E. Hopmann, Steven L. Jennings, Brian A. Roth
  • Publication number: 20030150621
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Giancarlo Tomasso Pietro Pia
  • Publication number: 20030145986
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Applicant: Scientific MicroSystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick Evans, Michael A. Oehlert
  • Publication number: 20030141051
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Applicant: SYNCO TOOL COMPANY INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
  • Patent number: 6591914
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Hallliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jimmie R. Williamson, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030121656
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Michael D. Hershberger
  • Patent number: 6585041
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Alexander Crossley
  • Publication number: 20030066649
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Leo W. Koot, Michael R. Konopczynski
  • Publication number: 20030051873
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Tadeusz Wiktor Patzek, Dimitriy Borisovich Silin, Asoke Kumar De
  • Publication number: 20030034161
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: Global Energy Research, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
  • Patent number: 6516879
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventor: Michael D. Hershberger
  • Publication number: 20030015320
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Alexander Crossley
  • Publication number: 20030010502
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Raimo Edwin Gregor Poorte, Paulus Henricus Joannes Verbeek
  • Publication number: 20030010491
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Herman D. Collette
  • Patent number: 6505682
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Mark W. Brockman
  • Publication number: 20020189815
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Craig D. Johnson, Gary Martin Oddie
  • Patent number: 6491828
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Timothy Mark Sivavec, Patricia Denise Mackenzie, Sunita Singh Baghel, Joseph James Salvo
  • Publication number: 20020174983
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Gerald L. Swoyer, Charles H. Hunt, Paul M. Yaniga, Richard J. Bordogna
  • Patent number: 6484800
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael A. Carmody, Kevin R. Jones, Robert J. Coon, Douglas J. Murray, Mark E. Hopmann, Steven L. Jennings, Brian A. Roth
  • Patent number: 6481499
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.
    Inventor: Divonsir Lopes
  • Patent number: 6478089
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventors: Lee Alves, Kennith Shade
  • Patent number: 6470970
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Welldynamics Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Purkis, Brett Bouldin, Richard Rubbo
  • Publication number: 20020153134
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
  • Publication number: 20020144816
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
  • Publication number: 20020144821
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy F. Rice
  • Patent number: 6460622
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Global Energy Research, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy F. Rice