With Means Facilitating Connecting Or Disconnecting Supported Tubing Or Rod Sections Patents (Class 166/77.51)
  • Patent number: 8894021
    Abstract: A cable support is disclosed. The cable support may comprise a mount, a drive support, a strap, and a drive block. The drive support and the strap may be connected to the mount. The drive block may be connected to the drive support and the strap. A cable support may comprise a body having a through hole, a plurality of compression segments, and a spreader. The plurality of compression segments may be located at least partially within the body and may be sized to receive a wire. The spreader may be located between the plurality of compression segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Southwire Company, LLC
    Inventors: Allan W. Daniel, Chad Garrish, David Fuller, Stuart W. Thorn
  • Patent number: 8887801
    Abstract: A stabilizer to suppress unwanted pivotal movement in pipe handling equipment suspended from bails. The stabilizer can contain either or both adjustable contacting members and non-adjustable contacting members which are rigidly connected to a portion of the pipe handling equipment. The adjustable contacting members contact the bails on one or both sides of the bail(s) to suppress motion of the elevator relative to the bail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Frank's International, LLC
    Inventors: Jeremy R. Angelle, Donald E. Mosing, Oren M. Bowden
  • Publication number: 20140326467
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally relate to a tubular handling tool. The tool may include a base and a ring or sleeve member. The tool may further include an actuation member configured to move or rotate the ring or sleeve member relative to the base. Additionally, the tool may include a clamp or dog member attached to the base. The clamp or dog member is configured to move between a radially retracted position and a radially extended position as the ring or sleeve member moves or rotates relative to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Karsten HEIDECKE, Federico AMEZAGA, Scott MCINTIRE, Bjoern THIEMANN, John Fielding OWNBY
  • Publication number: 20140311732
    Abstract: A combination for making up and breaking out pipe at an oil rig site includes a torque module and at least one pipe clamp apparatus. The torque module includes a pair of hydraulic motors, a torque transmission driven by the motors, a herringbone gear segment driven by the transmission to rotate the torque module, and a pair of clamp cylinders actuated by the transmission. The at least one pipe clamp apparatus is actuated by at least one of the clamp cylinders to apply a uniform gripping load around a pipe that is pipe diameter independent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey Lee Bertelsen
  • Patent number: 8863371
    Abstract: A system for aligning and connecting components including a support structure and a measuring apparatus coupled to the support structure. The measuring apparatus is arranged to spatially analyze a first tubular component with respect to a second tubular component for determining an adjustment vector therebetween. An alignment apparatus is coupled to the support structure and in data communication with the measuring apparatus. The alignment apparatus includes a plurality of actuators operatively arranged in parallel for moving at least one of the first or second tubular components relative to the other for coaxially arranging the first and second tubular components in accordance with the adjustment vector. A connection apparatus is coupled to the support structure and operatively arranged for connecting the first and second tubular components together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Dominik Brouwer, Joerg Lehr, Berend Denkena, Hans-Christian Möhring, Kai Litwinski
  • Patent number: 8863846
    Abstract: A jack system may provide subsea or surface operation. The jack system includes a top plate and a base plate with at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate. The jack system also includes a bottom slip bowl assembly, a top slip bowl assembly, and rotary assembly. The top slip bowl and rotary assembly are rotatably coupled to the top plate wherein the rotary assembly and the top slip bowl assembly rotate relative to the top plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Cudd Pressure Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Curtis Overstreet, Scott Michael Cunningham, J. E. Skip Ward
  • Publication number: 20140302305
    Abstract: A composite includes a porous matrix that includes a molybdenum-silicon-boron (Mo—Si—B) alloy that has a plurality of pores with a lubricant in contact with the Mo—Si—B alloy, a hydrophobic compound in contact with the Mo—Si—B alloy, or a combination thereof. A method for preparing a porous composite includes disposing a porous matrix comprising a Mo—Si—B alloy on a substrate, the Mo—Si—B alloy comprising a plurality of pores; disposing a lubricant on a surface of the porous matrix; and disposing a hydrophobic compound on a surface of the porous matrix to form the porous composite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Somesh Kumar Mukherjee, Vivekanand Sista, John H. Stevens
  • Publication number: 20140299313
    Abstract: A clamp assembly which includes two spaced apart jaw systems each of which has two sets of spaced apart relatively pivotal grip formations, wherein the jaw systems are relatively pivotally movable to position the four sets of grip formations at spaced apart locations on a circumference of a circle, wherein the size of the circumference is determined at least by the extent of relative pivotal movement of the jaw systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: MONUMENT MACHINE SHOP LTD.
    Inventors: Leonard Messmer, Timothy Pickford, Michael Thomas Patrick Sutherland, Lauren Giang
  • Patent number: 8851164
    Abstract: A tubular member handling apparatus including a tubular member running tool, an elevator, first actuators each extending between the running tool and the elevator, and second actuators each extending between the running tool and a corresponding first actuator. The running tool includes a slotted member having a plurality of elongated slots, a recessed member slidably coupled to the slotted member and having a plurality of recesses, and a plurality of rolling members each retained between one of the recesses and one of the slots. Each rolling member partially extends through an adjacent slot when located in a shallow end of a corresponding recess, and retracts to within an outer perimeter of the slotted member when located in a deep end of the corresponding recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Brian Ellis, Craig Weems
  • Patent number: 8839852
    Abstract: An excavator is provided, in which the excavator includes a head that is slidably mounted on a leader, and a position fixture assembly slidable along the leader via the head. The position fixture includes a support plate including a groove in it top surface, with a first rod slidable within the groove. The position fixture also including a locking unit that serves to engage a base member, allowing the base member to be elevated when the head is elevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Suk-Shin In
  • Patent number: 8839884
    Abstract: A top drive system with a plurality of top drive modules, which are configured to be quickly exchanged. The top drive modules may include any or all of the following: a main body module, a gearbox module, a drive motor module, a pipe handler module, an upper fluid module, a lower well control valve module, a block interface module, a retract system interface frame module, a cooling system module, a work platform guard module, and a quill saver sub module. Alternatively, the top drive may comprise a first top drive and a second top drive which are configured to be quickly exchanged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Beat Küttel, Randall S. Pyrch, Faisal J. Yousef, Alan S. Richardson, Greg Kostiuk
  • Publication number: 20140262329
    Abstract: A clamping system for making and breaking threaded connections between a first component and a second component includes a first clamp assembly and a second clamp assembly. The first clamp assembly includes a first clamp member and a second clamp member disposed about an opening in the first clamp assembly. The second clamp assembly includes a third clamp member and a fourth clamp member disposed about an opening in the second clamp assembly. The opening in the second clamp assembly being coaxially aligned with the opening in the first clamp assembly. The first clamp member and the second clamp member are configured to engage the first component. The third clamp member and the fourth clamp member are configured to engage the second component. The first clamp member and the second clamp member are configured to rotate the first component relative to the second component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Ulric Fournier, Robert Roulston
  • Patent number: 8833470
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a pipe handling system for use with a tubular joining system. In one aspect, a method of forming a string of pipe using a joining assembly at a wellbore is provided. The joining assembly includes an internal joining tool and an external joining tool. The method includes the step of picking up the pipe joint using an elevator. The method further includes the step of positioning a lower end of the pipe joint adjacent an end of a string of pipe disposed in the external joining tool. The method also includes the step of moving the internal joining tool from a first position to a second position relative to the elevator, wherein the second position is between the pipe joint and the string of pipe. The method further includes the step of forming a connection between the pipe joint and the string of pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Karsten Heidecke, Michael Hayes, Frederick T. Tilton, Doyle F. Boutwell, Jr., Robert Badrak, Joseph Ross Rials, David J. Havens
  • Patent number: 8807230
    Abstract: A well tubing installer includes a base having a tubular connector extending downward for connection to an upper end of a blowout preventer. A support floor having support slips is mounted to hydraulic cylinders at a fixed distance above the base. A traveling slip base containing traveling slips is mounted to upper ends of piston rods of the hydraulic cylinders. A pipe lifting assembly is supported by the base for lifting and positioning an additional joint of tubing to be added to the string of tubing. A pipe make-up mechanism is supported by the base for rotating the additional joint into threaded engagement with the string of tubing. A control line supply source for supplies control line to and alongside the string of tubing at a point between the base and the support floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Tesco Corporation
    Inventor: Errol A. Sonnier
  • Publication number: 20140224509
    Abstract: Present embodiments are directed to a circulation system including a circulation management system. A housing of a coupling feature of the circulation management system is configured to extend over a box end of a pipe element. A seal disposed within the housing is configured to engage with a face of the box end. A force-application feature is configured to force the seal against the face of the box end to establish a sealed engagement between the circulation management system and the pipe element. A flow path of the circulation management system extends through the housing and the seal, wherein the flow path facilitates fluid flow into the pipe element from the circulation management system when the sealed engagement is established. A port to the flow path is configured to couple with a fluid flow supply feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Tesco Corporation
    Inventors: Edgar Fernando Yajure, Ryan Thomas Bowley
  • Publication number: 20140209323
    Abstract: A collet coupling for electric submersible pumps is provided. An example coupling for joining two shafts includes a tubular coupling member, and collet for fixing the coupling to a shaft via expandable fingers with ribs for latching into a groove on each shaft. Shoulders in the groove transmit axial load forces between the two shafts through the ribs, fingers, and collet. An example method includes attaching one end of the coupling to a shaft of an ESP unit already installed in a well, adjusting an axial reach of a threaded collet for attachment to a second shaft of an upper ESP unit, and engaging ribs of the collet into a groove of the second shaft to couple the two shafts. A sliding retainer allows quick release. An axial deviation distance may be factory-stamped on the ESP units for quick length adjustment and installation of collet couplings in the field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sergey Pisetskiy, Arthur I Watson
  • Patent number: 8789579
    Abstract: A downhole tool for incorporation in a drill pipe for selective operation of the tool from surface level when the tool is in a wellbore. The tool comprises a controller electrically powered by a power source separate from surface level, a first sensor of the controller to detect a dynamic variable of the tool in the wellbore and produce an output signal dependent thereon; a second sensor of the controller to detect a mechanical signal transmitted from an operator at surface level; a motor driven by the power source under the control of the controller when said mechanical signal is received; and an actuator driven by the motor to actuate the tool; wherein the controller switches between at least two states in response to changes in said dynamic variable, only in said second state the controller being receptive to said mechanical signal from the operator to drive the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Intelligent Drilling Tools Limited
    Inventors: Andy Ollerenshaw, Gordon Hunter
  • Publication number: 20140196909
    Abstract: A tubular handling apparatus including a tubular member running tool adapted to provide load-bearing, and preferably torquing, capacity upon the gripping of a tubular is provided. The running tool includes a slotted member having a plurality of elongated slots, a recessed member associated with the slotted member and having a plurality of recesses, and a plurality of gripping elements disposed between the slotted member and recessed member. Each such gripping element is adapted to move with an engaged tubular so as to grip the tubular. A tubular member elevator associated to the running tool, as well as related floor slips, are also encompassed. Methods of casing running are also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicants: First Subsea Limited, Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Brian C. Ellis, Craig C. Weems, Faisal J. Yousef, Beat Kuttel
  • Patent number: 8757277
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of drilling equipment for the discovery and production of hydrocarbons from the earth. In particular, this disclosure relates to a torque reaction device for coupling a pipe running tool to a top drive assembly on a drilling rig. In one embodiment, a system for coupling a pipe segment to a pipe string includes a top drive assembly, a pipe running tool, and a torque reaction device. The top drive assembly includes an output shaft and a link extending from the top drive. The top drive is operative to rotate the output shaft with respect to the link. The pipe running tool is coupled to the output shaft and is engageable with a pipe segment to transmit torque from the output shaft to the pipe segment. The torque reaction device couples the pipe running tool to the link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Pieter Dekker, Richard Lee Murray, Jr., Richard Verhoef
  • Patent number: 8752619
    Abstract: A clamping device for supporting a well string in a borehole includes a base plate with a central opening and primary clamp body clamp body supported for linear motion relative to the base plate. The clamping device further includes other clamp bodies supported for independent linear motion relative to the base plate. In certain embodiments, the clamping bodies are supported for pivoting motion to open and close the central opening. Each of the clamp bodies carries a gripping member on a face thereof for engaging a well string component received in the central opening. A drive mechanism is coupled to the clamp bodies and configured to move the clamp bodies relative to the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Rene Mulder, Anton Krijnen, Niels De Keijzer, Richard Verhoef
  • Publication number: 20140151021
    Abstract: A well service rig system includes a well service rig, a catwalk, a racking system, and a tong system. The well service rig system provides techniques for tripping rods and/or tubulars with improved efficiency, such as reducing the need for operator intervention by providing process automation. The well service rig system is further adaptable for use with rods, tubulars, or both. The well servicing rig system also provides rod and/or tubular storage and delivery solutions via the integrated racking system. Furthermore, the present disclosure provides improved methods for tripping rods and/or tubulars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: KEY ENERGY SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: Derrek Yorga, Derrick Jackson, Paul Knapp, Dave Richard, Minhao Yin, Harold James Miller
  • Patent number: 8739861
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a first pin and a second pin. The first pin has a first joint section. The first joint section has first holes extending a length of the first joint section and terminating at a first preload face. The second pin has a second joint section. The second joint section has second holes extending a length of the first joint section and terminating at a second preload face. The second joint section is adapted to receive the first joint section and the first holes match the second holes when the first pin and the second pin are mated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Sunstone Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: William James Hughes, Bryan Lane, Gary Marshall Briggs
  • Patent number: 8739888
    Abstract: A casing gripper is stabbed into a casing and energized by a top drive, gripping the casing. The casing gripper includes a load bearing mandrel that has external threads. The casing gripper also includes a nut threaded over the external threads, and a wrench having a portion of the upper end of the load bearing mandrel inserted into an opening of the wrench. The wrench is configured to prevent rotation of the nut but allow axial movement while the op drive rotates the mandrel. The casing gripper includes a grapple coupled to the nut and extending along a portion of the lower end of the load bearing mandrel. The grapple moves axially with the nut an is configured to radially expand and engage a casing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Tesco Corporation
    Inventor: Jonathan B. O'Blenes
  • Patent number: 8733434
    Abstract: In some embodiments, apparatus connectable between a top drive system and a tool useful in connection with a hydrocarbon exploration or production well includes a rotatable barrel, a non-rotating upper housing engageable with the top drive system, a rotatable lower housing engageable with the tool and a non-rotating communication ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Stewart John Barker
  • Publication number: 20140138080
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a tong system which includes a tong assembly and at least one string gripping device. The tong assembly is configured to engage a rod or tubular string at the junction between a first rod or tubular and a second rod or tubular of a rod or tubular string and unthread the first rod or tubular from the second rod or tubular. The tong assembly can also thread the first rod or tubular onto the rod or tubular string. The string gripping device is configured to hold a tubular string for at least a portion of the time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: KEY ENERGY SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: Derrek Yorga, Derrick Jackson, Paul Knapp, Dave Richard, Minhao Yin, Harold James Miller
  • Patent number: 8726984
    Abstract: A rotary table device is provided with means arranged for suspension of a pipe string. The rotary table comprises a rotary ring arranged rotatably about the central axis of the rotary table. The rotary ring is formed by two or more ring sections, each connected to a system comprising a bearing housing section rotatable relative to a base section, a bearing housing groove being formed in a base contact surface on the bearing housing section and a corresponding base groove being formed in an opposing bearing housing surface in the base section. The grooves form a curve-shaped track for a roller body and the groove has a curvature center coinciding with the central axis of the rotary table. The rolling diameter of the roller body exceeds the collective depth of said grooves, and a channel connecting the end portions of the bearing housing groove is formed in the bearing housing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: West Drilling Products AS
    Inventors: Helge Krohn, Ove Kalvatn, Mads Grinrød, Odd B. Skjaerseth
  • Patent number: 8727021
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a top drive system includes a quill; a motor operable to rotate the quill; a gripper operable to engage a joint of casing; a connector bi-directionally rotationally coupled to the quill and the gripper and longitudinally coupled to the gripper; and a compensator longitudinally coupled to the quill and the connector. The compensator is operable to allow relative longitudinal movement between the connector and the quill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Karsten Heidecke, Joseph Ross Rials, Raleigh Fisher, Delaney Michael Olstad
  • Patent number: 8720589
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are disclosed herein relating to an apparatus to support a tubular member. The apparatus includes a bowl having a longitudinal axis extending therethrough, in which the bowl includes an inner wall formed about the longitudinal axis that is tapered with respect to the longitudinal axis. The apparatus further includes a plurality of slip assemblies movably disposed within to the bowl and having a tapered outer surface and a tapered inner surface with respect to the longitudinal axis. The tapered outer surface of the plurality of slip assemblies is configured to engage the tapered inner wall of the bowl. Further, the bowl may include a shoulder disposed on the inner wall that extends towards the longitudinal axis with respect to the inner wall. Each of the plurality of slip assemblies may be configured to engage the shoulder of the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Thibodeaux, Jr., Jeremy Richard Angelle
  • Patent number: 8720541
    Abstract: A tubular handling apparatus including a tubular member running tool adapted to provide load-bearing, and preferably torquing, capacity upon the gripping of a tubular is provided. The running tool includes a slotted member having a plurality of elongated slots, a recessed member associated with the slotted member and having a plurality of recesses, and a plurality of gripping elements disposed between the slotted member and recessed member. Each such gripping element is adapted to move with an engaged tubular so as to grip the tubular. A tubular member elevator associated to the running tool, as well as related floor slips, are also encompassed. Methods of casing running are also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd., First Subsea Limited
    Inventors: Brian Ellis, Craig Weems, Faisal J. Yousef, Beat Küttel
  • Patent number: 8720542
    Abstract: A tubular member handling apparatus is a gripping tool (100) in the form of a body (110) having a longitudinal axis (202) and formed by a plurality of sleeves (750) connected end to end, each sleeve including a frusto-conical bore 752 centered on said longitudinal axis; a clamp member (700) in each sleeve formed by clamp-segments (740), each having side faces (168), end faces (743), a frusto-conical exterior surface (741) adapted to match said frusto-conical bore, and a cylindrical interior surface (745); cage-segments (220) connected to said interior surface and having a plurality of windows (222) partially closing recesses (214) in said interior surface, which recesses are elongate in said longitudinal direction, house a roller (230) and have a base (236) inclined in said longitudinal direction so that, at a lower end (232) of each recess the roller protrudes through said window and at an upper end (234) thereof the roller protrudes less or not at all; a bias mechanism 780, urging said clamp-segments apart
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: First Subsea Limited, Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Paul Anthony Hughes, Faisal J. Yousef
  • Publication number: 20140124218
    Abstract: An automated pipe tripping apparatus includes an outer frame and an inner frame. The inner frame includes a tripping slips and iron roughneck. The automated pipe tripping apparatus may, in concert with an elevator and drawworks, trip in a tubular string in a continuous motion. The tripping slips and iron roughneck, along with the inner frame, may travel vertically within the outer frame. The weight of the tubular string is transferred between the tripping slips and the elevator. The iron roughneck may make up or break out threaded connections between tubular segments, the upper tubular segment supported by the elevator and the lower by the tripping slips. An automated pipe handling apparatus may remove or supply sections of pipe from or to the elevator. A control system may control both the automated pipe tripping apparatus and the elevator and drawworks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: Rick PILGRIM
  • Publication number: 20140116686
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for running tubulars into and out of a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert C. Odell, II, Richard Lee Giroux, Tuong Thanh Le, Gary Thompson, Karsten Heidecke, Joerg Lorenz, Doyle Fredric Boutwell, JR., Michael Hayes
  • Publication number: 20140116722
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system having a clamping mechanism configured to apply a force on a first tool joint and a second tool joint, wherein the clamping mechanism is configured to transfer a torque from the first tool joint to the second tool joint, and the clamping mechanism is configured to rotate about an axis of the first and second tool joints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: TESCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryan Thomas Bowley, Edgar Fernando Yajure
  • Patent number: 8701784
    Abstract: A method for controlling and coordinating the operation of a lifting device and a tongs device in removing and disassembling and/or installing and assembling a series of elongate members disposed within a wellbore involves sequentially sensing the presence of a series of joints and automatically triggering the lifting device and tongs device in response thereto. In some examples, the method senses the location of an upper joint to determine when the lifting device should begin decelerating prior to stopping the ascent of a lower joint at a target elevation. In some examples, the method includes control means for automatically skipping various joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Jonathan V. Huseman, Kasia L. Robnett, Frederic M. Newman
  • Patent number: 8689866
    Abstract: An automated tubular handling system adapted to make-up or break-out tubulars that includes a rotary drive adapted to operatively grip a tubular to be connected to or disconnected from a tubular string, a controller adapted to receive and process data indicative of a rotation, torque, and minimum time value associated with a make-up or a break-out of the tubular string, and a user interface adapted to convey the received data, the predetermined values, or both, of the tubular make-up or break-out to an operator. The controller compares the rotation, torque, and minimum time values to acceptable predetermined values to determine when the make-up or the break-out is complete. Automated methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: John B. Patterson, Roman K. Nowak, Justin M. Jarski, Stanislaw C. Sulima
  • Publication number: 20140090856
    Abstract: A pipe handler for assembling and deploying a string of threaded tubulars into a wellbore includes a pair of compensating bails and an elevator pivotally connected to the compensating bails. Each compensating bail includes: a first bail segment; a second bail segment; and a compensator connecting the respective first and second bail segments. Each compensator includes a load cylinder connected to the respective first bail segment and a linear actuator disposed in the respective load cylinder and operable to retract the respective second bail segment from a hoisting position to a ready position. Each second bail segment is engaged with the respective load cylinder in the hoisting position. The compensating bails are capable of supporting string weight in the hoisting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Brittan S. PRATT, Karsten HEIDECKE
  • Publication number: 20140054046
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and apparatus to inhibit rotation within a drilling rig. The apparatus may include a first member connected to a first component of the drilling rig, and a second member connected to the first member and connected to a second component of the drilling rig, the second component configured to move vertically with respect to the first component. The first member is configured to move vertically with respect to the second member and the first member and the second member substantially inhibit rotation between each other. The apparatus may include a rotational adjustment system, in which the rotational adjustment system is used to connect with one of the components of the drilling rig.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOLS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian David Begnaud, Charles Michael Webre, Adam Gerard Pelletier, Dougal Hugo Brown, Tom Adrian Banger, Peter John Lovegrove
  • Patent number: 8651200
    Abstract: A device is for vertical tool guiding for a drill floor. On the drill floor is arranged at least one rig. Each rig is arranged on a rig foundation supported on the drill floor rotatably about a first, vertical axis (A) and arranged to be able to displace a tool in a horizontal working sector (Sa, Sb, Sc) that in a vertical projection at least touches or cuts through the central axis (C) in a through drill floor opening. Each rig is provided with a vertical guide track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: West Drilling Products AS
    Inventors: Helge Krohn, Mads Grinrød, Odd B. Skjaerseth, Ove Kalvatn, Jarle Veshovde
  • Patent number: 8651175
    Abstract: A top drive assembly that includes a gauge for measuring strain in a linkage coupling the top drive to a drilling rig frame. The strain measuring gauge, which can be a strain gauge, is disposed on a pin that pivotingly links members of the linkage coupling. When a motor in the top drive assembly operates to rotate an associated pipe string, the torque generated by the motor can be estimated by monitoring strain measured in the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Tesco Corporation
    Inventor: Matthew Fallen
  • Patent number: 8646522
    Abstract: A method for gripping a tubular with a tubular gripping mechanism includes the steps of moving the tubular gripping mechanism adjacent the tubular, positioning a jaw assembly of the tubular gripping mechanism around the tubular, applying a force by an actuator onto the jaw assembly of the tubular gripping mechanism such that the jaw assembly moves so as to clamp onto the tubular, removing the force from the actuator onto the jaw assembly such that the jaw assembly remains clamped onto the tubular. The clamping force is directed to surfaces of the tubular gripping mechanism away from the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
  • Publication number: 20140034332
    Abstract: A tool for economically, efficiently, and reliably separating a workstring in a wellbore is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Jerry Allamon, Kevin Trahan, Javier Bolivar, Justin B. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8636057
    Abstract: A shear coupling assembly utilizes a second coupling member, a first coupling member and a locking member which is inserted into a bore in the first coupling member to connect between the second coupling member and the first coupling member. In embodiments where a pretension is applied to the shear neck, the locking member maintains the pretension in the shear neck. The bore of the first coupling member has a profiled section which corresponds to a profiled section on the second coupling member which when mated together permit torque to be transferred for co-rotating the second coupling member with the first coupling member for use in rotary pump operations. Advantageously, the profiled portions and the shear neck are encased in the bore of the shear coupling assembly and are protected from corrosive wellbore fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Benny B. Wolodko, Hermann Basler, Jonathan Paul Penner
  • Patent number: 8636056
    Abstract: A drilling rig for use in drilling wells having a top drive with a slide assembly configured to engage, slide on, and react torque to a modular torque track assembly. The modular torque track assembly connects between the top of a derrick and lower structure of the drilling rig. The modular torque track assembly can have a top track, one or more middle tracks, and a bottom track allowing the modular torque track to be various lengths for various applications. The torque track sections are connectable with unique locking devices which allow a man in a suspended sling to quickly and safely make or break each connection. There are no loose parts in the design to accidentally drop and hurt a person below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Larry G. Keast
  • Patent number: 8636067
    Abstract: A remotely operated lifting top drive cement head is provided having a high tensile strength, as well as the ability to swivel or rotate about a central vertical axis. The cement head permits selective launching of darts, setting plugs, balls or other objects which can be held in place within the cement head without being damaged or washed away by slurry flow, but which can be beneficially launched into said slurry flow at desired point(s) during the cementing process. The internal components of the cement head can be easily accessed using interrupted thread connections that can be quickly and easy connected and disconnected in the field without requiring specialized equipment. The cement head can be rigged up and remotely operated without requiring the lifting of personnel off the rig floor to actuate the tool or observe tool status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Blackhawk Specialty Tools, LLC
    Inventors: Ron D. Robichaux, James F. Giebeler, Juan Carlos E. Mondelli
  • Publication number: 20140014319
    Abstract: A hydraulic screen table having a base, an upper work surface, an opening in the screen table for allowing pipe to travel, upper support plates, emergency actuation plates, first and second set of powered cylinders wherein upon sensing an emergency, the cylinders pull the support plates and allow the sand screen to fall into the well bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: Cody Hansen, Jed Landry, Tommy Hebert, Wayne Cancienne
  • Patent number: 8622122
    Abstract: A rod reel includes a reel body having a central axis, a first rod receiving channel and a second rod receiving channel. The first and second rod receiving channels are centered about the central axis. The second rod receiving channel is adjacent to the first rod receiving channel. The rod reel may be used to repair a rod string by loading a supplemental rod string in one of the pockets, loading the rod string into another of the pockets, cutting the rod string, and attaching a desired length of the supplemental rod string to the cut in the rod string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventors: Patrick Demers, John Charlton
  • Publication number: 20140000912
    Abstract: Present embodiments are directed to a top drive system comprising a hoisting assembly having an upper link, a lower link, and a first joint coupling the upper link and the lower link. The top drive system also includes a main body coupled to the hoisting assembly by a second joint, wherein the hoisting assembly is configured to support the main body, and the main body is configured to support a tubular. Further, the top drive system includes a frame coupled to the main body and a counter moment system configured to apply a force on the first joint to create a bending moment about the second joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Ryan Thomas Bowley, Edgar Fernando Yajure
  • Publication number: 20130341039
    Abstract: A completion system and method adapted for use in wells having long lateral boreholes includes a mast assembly, a pipe handling mechanism, a pipe arm, a pipe tub, a pump/pit combination skid, a rig carrier, and a control system. The control system can be used to automate operations of the completion system to facilitate rapid and safe make-up and breaking of tubular connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Complete Production Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Flusche
  • Publication number: 20130341037
    Abstract: A transportable rig apparatus provides for well completion operations while also providing a rig apparatus that readily resists or negates the effects of dynamic wind forces or other weather phenomenon. More particularly, the transportable rig apparatus provides a mast assembly that can extend in a generally vertical direction, e.g. perpendicular to the rig carrier and/or ground surface, such that the rig can be placed directly adjacent to a wellbore, the mast assembly providing a mast apparatus that readily resists or negates the effects of strong winds or other weather phenomenon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Complete Production Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Flusche
  • Patent number: 8613309
    Abstract: When inserting a tube into a borehole in the ground for extracting minerals, tube parts are successively added to the proximal end of the tube while the tube reaches into the borehole. Thereafter, the tube is inserted further into the borehole. As the addition of the tube part is carried out by welding, each time an eminently sealing and slender joint between the tube parts is obtained. As the tube parts are successively added to the tube only when this is necessary for inserting the tube further into the ground, winding up the tube to store it prior to insertion is not necessary and the use of a tube-carrying reel which is difficult to handle is thus rendered redundant. Further, an installation for carrying out the proposed method is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company & B.J. Services
    Inventors: Thomas Walburgis Bakker, Arno van Mourik