With Assembly Or Disassembly Means (e.g., Handling, Guiding, Or Tool Feature) Patents (Class 166/85.1)
  • Patent number: 8800654
    Abstract: A wellbore machining device is proposed for machining a tubular component of a wellbore. The device includes a control unit at the surface level of the wellbore and a down-hole tool unit connected to the control unit through a wire line. The tool unit includes an elongated guide member, a tool member movably supported on the guide member with respect to at least three axes of motion and a plurality of actuators controlled by the control unit and adapted to move the tool member with respect to the axes of motion. The tool unit further includes two anchor members each mounted to an axial end of the guide member and adapted to releasably clamp the tool unit to the tubular component. The control unit and the tool unit form a computer numerical control device (CNC device) wherein the actuators are electric servo motors controlling an actual position of the tool member with respect to a path and/or a sequence of desired position defined by the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Statoil Petroleum AS
    Inventor: Steinar Wasa Tverlid
  • Patent number: 8800646
    Abstract: A system is provided that includes a safety device configured to mount in a mineral extraction system and block axial movement of a plug in the mineral extraction system while the plug is released from a retainer. The safety device may be a sleeve configured to receive screws or other retention mechanism in a tubular. A method is provided that includes installing a plug safety catch into a tubular of a mineral extraction system in which the safety device is configured to block axial movement of a plug in response to a pressure differential while the plug is released from a mount position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Randall Dean Harkins, Kirk Paul Guidry, Thomas Edgar Taylor
  • Patent number: 8794336
    Abstract: The invention concerns a tool for a tool for connecting an end of a first pipeline (22) to an end of a second pipeline (3) supported by a subsea structure (1) and being provided by at least two guide elements (11, 12). The tool comprising means for connecting the pipelines, and it comprises a receiving portion (32) provided to accommodate the end of the first pipeline in a slideable manner, and guiding means comprising at least two guiding sections (34, 35) extending from receiving portion (32). Each guiding section has an end arranged with an attachment portion (36, 37) interfacing with the guide elements (11, 12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea AS
    Inventor: Knut H{dot over (a)}vard Bekkevold
  • Patent number: 8793960
    Abstract: A portable frame assembly having a skid assembly for supporting a vertically oriented mast assembly is disclosed. The mast assembly is comprised of at least two column assemblies that may be extended or retracted vertically as desired. The mast assembly is translatable horizontally on the skid assembly without the need for tracks or rollers. The skid assembly may be positioned adjacent a wellhead for the purpose of performing plug and abandon operations. The skid assembly may include a power swivel and other such hydraulic or mechanical tools for performing a variety of operations on a well including removing and plugging well casing strings, milling pipe strings, cement drilling, removing wellhead assemblies, or setting and pulling plugs from pipe strings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: DBRB Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Douglas C. Burns
  • Publication number: 20140209299
    Abstract: A snubbing apparatus for a wellhead has a snubbing stack with a upper sealing element and a lower sealing element that seal between the elongate string and the snubbing stack. A string driver carried by the snubbing stack manipulates the elongate string through the upper and lower sealing elements. There is a source of inert liquid connected to the snubbing stack between the upper sealing element and the lower sealing element. A pressure sensor is connected to sense the pressure below the lower sealing element and is connected to provide a pressure signal to the source of inert liquid. The source of inert liquid is configured to pressurize the snubbing stack between the upper sealing element and the lower sealing element in response to the pressure signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Javed Shah
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8783339
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods in accordance with the present disclosure are disclosed herein. The system includes a gripping tool operatively connected to and suspended from the top drive assembly, in which the gripping tool includes an axis defined therethrough and a gripping member, and an adaptor apparatus having a first end and a second end. The at least one gripping member engages the adaptor apparatus, and the second end includes a connection member to connect with the tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Frank's International, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Sinclair, Guy Hustinx, Patrick Neil Sibille
  • Publication number: 20140196912
    Abstract: A setting tool for hanging a tubular string includes: a tubular mandrel having an actuation port formed through a wall thereof; a debris barrier for engaging an upper end of the tubular string; and a piston having an upper face in fluid communication with the actuation port. The setting tool further includes: an actuator sleeve extending along the mandrel and connected to the piston; a latch releasably connecting the debris barrier to the actuator sleeve and for releasably connecting the debris barrier to the tubular string; a packoff connected to the mandrel below the piston and operable to seal against an inner surface of the tubular string, thereby forming a buffer chamber between the debris barrier and the packoff; and a passage. The passage: is in fluid communication with a lower face of the piston, is formed in a wall of and along the mandrel, and bypasses the packoff.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Rocky A. TURLEY, Mike BOCK, George GIVENS, Kathleen CASSARD, Paul A. REINHARDT
  • Patent number: 8770272
    Abstract: A well servicing system includes a frame adapted to mount to a pipe handling system that includes a hanger adapted to guide a load coupled to a cable towards a wellhead, where the load exerts at least a portion of a tensile force on the cable; and a winch including a drum and a brake. The brake is adapted to control rotational motion of the drum to spool a portion of the cable over the drum and set the drum to substantially prevent rotational motion of the drum. The well servicing system also includes a hydraulic piston-cylinder coupled to a sheave. The piston is adapted to stroke into or out of the cylinder when the tensile force exceeds a desired load when the drum is set to substantially prevent rotational motion to spool the cable from the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Thurman Harrell
  • Patent number: 8770297
    Abstract: An RCD is used to provide a system and method for sealing a marine riser having a rotatable tubular. A bypass internal channel or external line may be used to allow fluid to bypass the RCD seal. An RCD holding member seal could be a mechanically extrudable seal or a hydraulically expanded seal to seal the RCD with the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. Bailey, Danny W. Wagoner, Waybourn J. Anderson, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140174718
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a support structure for use on a rig floor and for supporting a unit used to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead comprises a support plate adapted to securely mount the support structure to said unit, a passage in the support plate of sufficient diameter to allow tubular components to pass therethrough, a plurality of rig engaging members and at least one tensile member mount. The unit used to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead may be a compact snubbing unit or may be a push/pull unit. The support structure may further comprise a worker platform to support a worker above the rig floor. Various push/pull system embodiments, for use on a rig to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead, are also taught.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Team Snubbing Services Inc.
    Inventor: Brian TUCKEN
  • Patent number: 8757276
    Abstract: A technique enables the efficient connection of communication lines in a well application by substantially reducing online rig assembly time. The technique reduces online time of the rig by sealably fastening a first connector of a downhole connection assembly to a segment of a communication line during offline assembly time to substantially reduce the online time requirements. The first connector is later connected to a corresponding second connector while the rig is online to complete the downhole connection assembly that joins communication line segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Alff, Robert Speers, Emmanuel Rioufol
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140158342
    Abstract: A rig includes a base structure in contact with an operating surface and configured to support the rig on the operating surface. A transportation system is operatively coupled to the base structure and is configured to position the rig over an extraction point. A raised platform is connected to the base structure by a plurality of support beams. A hoisting device is connected to the raised platform. A drawworks is supported on the base structure and is operatively connected to the hoisting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventors: Shawn R. SMITH, Harlan B. Smith
  • Publication number: 20140158374
    Abstract: One embodiment provides an adjustable guide 10a to steer the end 90 of a pipe string 88 into position to be engaged and supported by a pipe gripping apparatus such as, for example, an externally gripping elevator assembly 10. The adjustable guide 10a may comprise a plurality of angularly distributed guide inserts 30, each having a sloped surface 30A to engage a pipe end 90. Another embodiment provides an adjustable guide 60a to steer a pipe connection into position to pass through a spider 60. The guide inserts 30, 80 of an adjustable guide may be controllably positionable to together form a guide that is concentric with the bore of the tapered bowl of an elevator assembly or a spider. One embodiment comprises a guide insert retainer 11 having a plurality of channels 28, each slidably receiving a guide insert 30 and positionable by rotation of a threaded shaft 40.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOLS, INC.
    Inventors: Jeremy Richard Angelle, Donald E. Mosing, John Erick Stelly
  • Publication number: 20140151067
    Abstract: Devices and method for engaging a casing member for manipulation. A hydraulic torque locking mechanism is incorporated into a casing manipulation assembly. The hydraulic torque locking mechanism includes a clutch mechanism that is actuated using surface pump pressure from tool circulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140138081
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a well service rig for tripping rods and tubulars. The well service rig includes a service rig base unit, a mast coupled to the well service rig base unit movable between a folded position and an upright position, a vertical guide mounted to the mast, and a traveling block system coupled to the vertical guide at a first end and configured to travel up and down at least a portion of a length of the vertical guide. The traveling block system is couplable to a rod, a tubular, or both at a second end.
    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: 8727023
    Abstract: A wireline lubricator and a connector includes a first part with a first seal portion and a first throughgoing passage for receiving a part of a wireline, and a second part with a second seal portion and a second throughgoing passage for receiving a part of a wireline. The first part is pivotally connected to the second part such that the connector is capable of assuming a first configuration and a second configuration. The second configuration and the first and second throughgoing passage are aligned. The first and second seal portion engage each other to provide a sealed wireline passage defined by the aligned first and second throughgoing passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Maersk Olie Og Gas A/S
    Inventor: Wilhelmus Hubertus Paulus Maria Heijnen
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140116676
    Abstract: A lifting frame having an upper yoke member and a pair of substantially parallel vertical members to forms the sides of the lifting frame. A lifting sub extends from the upper yoke member for connecting the lifting frame to a traveling block or top drive assembly, while a lower horizontal base member permits attachment to bails or other lower linkage members. The vertical members have at least partially aligned sections of reduced thickness, allowing the internal width dimension (between the inner surfaces of the substantially vertical members) to be increased without simultaneously increasing the overall external width of the lifting frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: Patrick Eloy Placer, Matthew Elliott
  • Patent number: 8695713
    Abstract: A production assembly and method for controlling production from production tubing supported by a tubing hanger in a well including a wellhead. The assembly includes a function spool engaged with the wellhead and a tree engaged with the function spool. The tubing hanger is landable in the tree bore such that the production tubing is supported in the well by the tree. A function mandrel separate from the tubing hanger is engaged with the production tubing and positionable inside the function spool bore. The function mandrel includes a passage connected to a line extending into the well that is connectable with a port in the function spool such that communication with a downhole component through the line is allowable from outside the function spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: David R. June, David R. Gwyn
  • Patent number: 8678097
    Abstract: A system for circumferentially aligning a downhole latch subsystem in a wellbore. The system includes an outer tool assembly including a latch coupling having a latch profile and a slot subassembly having an axially extending slot profile. An inner tool assembly is positionable within the outer tool assembly. The inner tool assembly includes a latch assembly having a plurality of latch keys and an orienting subassembly having a plurality orienting keys. In operation, after axial alignment of the orienting subassembly with the slot subassembly, rotation of the orienting subassembly causes operable engagement of at least one orienting key with the slot profile and, thereafter, axial alignment of the latch assembly with the latch coupling causes operable engagement of the latch keys with the latch profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart Alexander Telfer, Espen Dahl, David Joe Steele, Lester Barett Dupler
  • Publication number: 20140060809
    Abstract: A system in some embodiments includes a back pressure valve configured to mount in a mineral extraction system. The back pressure valve comprises a cylindrical body comprising a venting port coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body and a plunger disposed in the venting port, wherein the plunger comprises a stem that extends from the venting port into an adjacent cavity of the cylindrical body. In some embodiments, a method of operating a valve, includes biasing a plunger to an open position, biasing a valve locking mechanism to a locked position in relation to a bore of a mineral extraction system, and biasing a plunger to a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, Kirk P. Guidry, Thomas E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8657006
    Abstract: A method of severing a well string that extends into an oil well from an oil platform with a deck includes supporting upper and lower sections of the well string, the lower section supported at the platform deck with a deck located string support. A shear mechanism cuts the well string at a position that can be above the deck located string support. The upper section is then lifted a selected distance and the deck located string support again supports the string at a position below the cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Gulfstream Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Mire
  • Patent number: 8657012
    Abstract: A riser for use in subsea operations that is parked subsea deployed as needed onto wellheads disposed proximate where the riser is parked. A base anchored into the seafloor provides a pedestal for parking the riser. The riser emits a beacon signal so it can be located when needed. When parked, the riser can be kept in a vertical orientation by a buoyancy module mounted on an upper portion of the riser. A workboat, or other vessel, attaches to the parked riser and positions it onto a designated wellhead. An extension connects the riser to platform or other vessel above the sea surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Fenton, Ian Calder, Stewart Christie, Robert Lee
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140041855
    Abstract: A rig including a base structure, a derrick extending from the base structure, a hydraulic lift cylinder connected to the upper end of the derrick, a lower slip assembly connected to the base structure, an upper slip assembly, and at least two snub cylinders connected to the base and the upper slip assembly. A distal end of a piston rod of the lift cylinder is connectable to a pipe string extendable through the upper and lower slip assemblies such that both a lifting force and a snubbing force may be applied simultaneously to the pipe string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Rodgers Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Troy A. Rodgers
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8646240
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a mast assembly upon a floor of a drilling rig has a support structure, a first carriage assembly affixed to one side of the support structure and a second carriage assembly affixed to an opposite side of the support structure. Each of the first and second carriage assemblies are connectable to a section of the mast assembly. Drive cylinders are associated with the first and second carriage assemblies so as to cause the section of the mast assembly to move upwardly relative to the support structure. While the section of the mast assembly is retained in an elevated position, another section of the mast assembly can be placed within the support structure and joined to the elevated mast section. Additional mast sections can be connected together in a similar manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: NRG Manufacturing
    Inventors: Charles Patrick, Chris Post
  • Publication number: 20140027106
    Abstract: Example workover vehicles for removing and installing sucker rods and tubing of completed wells include a mast having a distinctive spatial relationship with various equipment of the vehicle. The mast has a series of vertical corner posts or weight bearing derrick legs that define the mast's horizontal footprint. In some examples, a tubing storage rack is situated mostly within the footprint while a rod storage rack is mostly beyond the footprint. A robot traveling vertically along the mast transfers rods and tubing between the well and the appropriate storage rack. In some examples, the rod storage rack pivots between an extended operative position and a retracted transport position. In some examples, a robotic jib transfers rods or tubing to and from a lay-down storage area. Some example robot jibs are movable to a fully deployed position for normal operation and a stored position within the mast's footprint for vehicle transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventors: Jonathan V. Huseman, Frederic M. Newman, James B. Story, Kasia L. Robnett, Victor D. Trotter
  • Patent number: 8616289
    Abstract: A system includes a back pressure valve configured to mount in a mineral extraction system. The back pressure valve comprises a cylindrical body comprising a venting port coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body and a plunger disposed in the venting port, wherein the plunger comprises a stem that extends from the venting port into an adjacent cavity of the cylindrical body. A method of operating a valve, includes biasing a plunger to an open position, biasing a valve locking mechanism to a locked position in relation to a bore of a mineral extraction system, and biasing a plunger to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, Kirk P. Guidry, Thomas E. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130341038
    Abstract: A rig system and method is provided for use with multiple wellheads in close proximity on a wellsite. A mast assembly is mounted to a rig carrier for alignment with a first wellhead. A pipe handling system is mounted to a skid having a pipe moving member mounted to the skid. A rig platform for use with the mast assembly is vertically moveable for accommodating a second wellhead in close proximity to the first wellhead while allowing operators to work within the mast assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Complete Production Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Flusche
  • Publication number: 20130341003
    Abstract: A transportable rig apparatus provides single operator control for moving pipe into and out of a wellbore. A transportable control van houses the operator. A rig carrier is utilized to transport the mast. A pipe tong is mounted in the mast and is remotely operable from the control van. Rig blocks which move up and down in the mast are remotely operable from control van. A skid mounted pipe moving member moves pipe to the mast assembly and away from the mast assembly. The pipe moving member remotely is operable from the control van. A pipe tub stores pipe and a pipe tub transfer system is operable for moving pipe from the pipe tub to the pipe moving member and for moving pipe from the pipe moving member to the pipe tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Complete Production Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Flusche
  • Patent number: 8613323
    Abstract: An assembly for use on a wellhead includes a tree body including an internal main bore arranged in use to be aligned with the bore of a wellhead housing; the tree body including a lateral bore extending through the tree body from the internal bore; the tree body further including means for connecting to a connector so as to align the internal bore of the tree body with an internal bore in the connector, in use the tree body and the connector together forming a horizontal tree. The tree body may include one or more integrally formed bores and valves to provide fluid flowpaths for the annulus and/or cross-over functions. A wellhead assembly including the tree assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Keith Garbett, Andrew Bean, Hans Paul Hopper
  • Patent number: 8607898
    Abstract: A force compensator for a top drive assembly includes a carrier block, a pair of top drive link assemblies, a mandrel, and a shock absorber assembly. The top drive link assemblies being positionable on either side of a power swivel and having a lower end connectable to the power swivel, an upper end connected to the carrier block, and being slidably positionable on a derrick of a drilling rig. The mandrel is slidably disposed through the carrier block and has an upper end connectable to a mover assembly of the drilling rig. The shock absorber assembly is interposed between the carrier block and a lower end of the mandrel in such a way that the shock absorber assembly is movable between an expanded condition and a compressed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Rodgers Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Troy A. Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20130327543
    Abstract: According to one aspect, a drilling rig carriage is adapted to move along a drilling mast, and includes a body structure, electric motors coupled to the body structure, and pinions operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively. The pinions are adapted to engage racks, respectively. According to another aspect, a drilling mast includes a longitudinally-extending frame having a first side portion and a second side portion spaced therefrom. Racks are coupled to the frame at the first side portion thereof. According to yet another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling mast or tower extending longitudinally along an axis, the tower including racks spaced in a parallel relation. A top drive is movable along the axis and relative to the tower. Electric motors are coupled to the top drive and movable therewith. Pinions are operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively, and engage the racks, respectively, to move the top drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey, Todd Fox, Scott G. Boone, Beat Kuttel
  • Publication number: 20130319674
    Abstract: A tool for removing a portion of a casing from a wellbore. The tool includes a base having an opening or bore formed therethrough. A plurality of hydraulic cylinders may each have a first end portion coupled to the base and a second end portion distal the base. A first crane may be coupled to the base. A tong may be coupled to the first crane, and the first crane may be adapted to move the tong into alignment with the opening in the base. A second crane may be coupled to the base. An attachment may be coupled to the second crane, and the second crane may be adapted to move the attachment into alignment with the opening in the base and proximate the second end portions of the cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: ERIC BOUDREAUX
  • Patent number: 8596344
    Abstract: The handling apparatus is used for positioning and holding of drill pipes. At least, a handling apparatus for the drill pipes is so arranged that it can be positioned both horizontally and vertically and it is equipped with a controllable clamping apparatus for the drill pipes. In the vicinity of the holding apparatus, a centering apparatus is arranged for the drill pipe to be held.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Blohm + Voss Oil Tools GmbH
    Inventors: Jens Lutzhöft, Jörn Grotherr, Tomoya Inoue, Eiichi Higashi
  • Patent number: 8590626
    Abstract: An improved motion compensator device that includes a compensated framework for various types of well intervention operations where a stable work area is required that is stationary to the sea bed and equipment in the annulus. The device is intended for use on offshore drilling vessels that are primarily either moored or dynamically positioned and therefore subject to the motions created by the sea. The device is designed to compensate for the vertical motion of the rig by means of two steel frame assemblies, pneumatic compensating cylinders, and a load and motion transfer apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Stingray Offshore Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Vincent H. Barone, Trevor S. Brown
  • Patent number: 8590624
    Abstract: A running tool sets and pressure tests a bridging hanger and a packoff in a single trip. The running tool has a stem, an inner body, and a piston. The inner body is connected to the stem so that rotation of the stem relative to the inner body will cause the stem to move longitudinally. The piston is connected to the stem so that the stem and piston rotate and move longitudinally in unison. A piston engagement element is housed in the inner body and is adapted to engage the piston when the bridging hanger is set to prevent premature setting of the packoff. The piston engagement element can be disengaged once the bridging hanger is set, thereby allowing the piston to set the packoff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Guilherme Pedro Eppinghaus Neto, Fernando Sousa
  • Publication number: 20130299194
    Abstract: A shaped charge pipe cutter is constructed with the cutter explosive material packed intimately around an axially elongated void space that is continued through a heavy wall boss portion of the upper thrust disc. The boss wall is continued to within a critical initiation distance of a half-cuter junction plane. An explosive detonator is positioned along the void space axis proximate of the outer plane of the upper thrust disc. Geometric configurations of the charge thrust disc and end-plate concentrate the detonation energy at the critical initiation zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: William T. Bell, James G. Rairigh
  • Publication number: 20130299190
    Abstract: According to one aspect, a drilling rig carriage is adapted to move along a drilling mast, and includes a body structure, electric motors coupled to the body structure, and pinions operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively. The pinions are adapted to engage racks, respectively. According to another aspect, a drilling mast includes a longitudinally-extending frame having a first side portion and a second side portion spaced therefrom. Racks are coupled to the frame at the first side portion thereof. According to yet another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling mast or tower extending longitudinally along an axis, the tower including racks spaced in a parallel relation. A top drive is movable along the axis and relative to the tower. Electric motors are coupled to the top drive and movable therewith. Pinions are operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively, and engage the racks, respectively, to move the top drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Padira REDDY, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey, Richmond Todd Fox, Scott G. Boone, Beat Kuttel
  • Publication number: 20130284454
    Abstract: A tool for removing a rubber element of an RCD from a drill stem, the tool having an upper pulling ring of a circumference sufficient to traverse around a rubber element, the ring having an open position and a closed position, the tool further having a lower stabilizing ring of a circumference sufficient to traverse around a drill pipe stump, the ring having an open position and a closed position, and the tool further having a plurality of chains suspending the lower stabilizing ring vertically below the upper pulling ring, as well as a hoist connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: BARRY MARSHALL
  • Patent number: 8567512
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for running tubulars into and out of a wellbore. A tubular handling system having a tubular gripping apparatus having a gripping mechanism and a sensor adapted to track movement of the gripping mechanism, wherein the sensor sends a signal to a controller when the gripping apparatus is in a position that corresponds to the gripping apparatus being engaged with the tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert C. Odell, II, Richard Lee Giroux, Tuong Thanh Le, Gary Thompson, Karsten Heidecke, Joerg Lorenz, Doyle Frederic Boutwell, Jr., Michael Hayes
  • Patent number: 8561685
    Abstract: A hydraulic workover rig including a base structure, a derrick extending from the base structure, a hydraulic lift cylinder connected to the upper end of the derrick, a lower slip assembly connected to the base structure, an upper slip assembly, and at least two snub cylinders connected to the base and the upper slip assembly. A distal end of a piston rod of the lift cylinder is connectable to a pipe string extendable through the upper and lower slip assemblies such that both a lifting force and a snubbing force may be applied simultaneously to the pipe string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Rodgers Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Troy A. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 8555982
    Abstract: A method includes the positioning of a rising column (22) in a vertical configuration and the total immersion of a buoy for retaining the rising column (22). The method includes the insertion of a male connecting member (62) borne by the buoy in a female connecting member (64) borne by the rising column (22) and the immobilization of the male connecting member (62) in a receiving passage (92) defined by the female connecting member (64). The female connecting member (64) includes at least one surface (98) for guiding the male connecting member (62) towards the receiving passage (92). The insertion step including the guiding of the male connecting member (62) towards the receiving passage (92) by contact with a guiding surface (98) of the female connecting member (64) which has a vertical section diverging away from the receiving passage (92) towards the male connecting member (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventor: Ange Luppi
  • Patent number: 8555984
    Abstract: A method for operating a linear rod pump to pump fluids, such as water and/or hydrocarbons, from a subterranean formation or reservoir, include a linear rod pump having a mechanical rack and pinion drive arrangement, adapted for attachment to a pumping mechanism, such as the polished rod at the top of a rod string in a hydrocarbon well. The rack gear, of the rack and pinion drive arrangement, is adapted for connection to, and movement with, the polished rod. The pinion gear does not translate with the rack gear, and is driven by a reversible motor for affecting up and down reciprocating motion of the rack gear and pumping mechanism. Some forms of the invention include a compressible gas counter-balance arrangement. Some forms of the invention include an electronic drive configured for dealing with electric power generated by the motor during a portion of the pumping cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Unico, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Beck, Robb G. Anderson, Ronald G. Peterson, Michael A. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 8556604
    Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a viscous material by means of an eccentric screw pump, includes a framework for carrying and fastening apparatus elements, a pump-housing portion for carrying a stator and a rotor in the form of a delivery screw, suction and pressure regions for introducing and discharging the delivery material, respectively, an electric drive unit for driving the rotor in the stator in a first direction of rotation for delivering the delivery material, a control mechanism for activating the drive unit, and one or more releasable retaining members for the rotationally fixed and/or positionally fixed connection of the drive unit and of the stator. A change in the direction of rotation to a second direction of rotation of the electric drive unit, with the retaining mechanism released, gives rise to automatic separation of the pump-housing portion with the stator by virtue of the rotor being unscrewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: J. Wagner GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Jeltsch, Thorsten Schnittger
  • Patent number: 8550521
    Abstract: A tubing grab assembly to retain and lift tubing, pipes, tubulars or other cylindrical objects. The assembly includes a pair of opposed jaws and a housing having a cavity. A least one of the opposed jaws has a shaft therethrough to permit rotation of the jaw with respect to the housing between a closed position and an open position. A jaw spring forces the movable jaw toward the closed position. A retractable spring trigger mechanism locks the pair of opposed jaws in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventors: Roger Arthur Ohman, III, Larry Mack Taylor