Ray Energy Detection Or Measuring Patents (Class 175/41)
  • Patent number: 12055033
    Abstract: A downhole tool and method of utilizing the downhole tool to make measurements in a wellbore formed in a formation and having different wellbore diameters. The downhole tool generally includes a tool body defined along a longitudinal central axis and having an internal passage extending longitudinally therethrough and an external pocket extending therealong; a sensor module having a sensor and being deployed within the external pocket; a spacer deployed in the external pocket, the spacer positioned between the sensor module and the tool body; and a clamp attached to the tool body, the clamp overlaying both the sensor module and the spacer to confine the sensor module within the external pocket. The spacer may have an inner concave surface engaging the sensor module and an outer convex surface seating in the external pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2024
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Cole Smith, Jeffrey James Crawford
  • Patent number: 11512588
    Abstract: A drilling dynamics data recorder is positioned within a slot in a downhole tool. The drilling dynamics data recorder may include a sensor package, the sensor package including one or more drilling dynamics sensors and a processor, the processor in data communication with the one or more drilling dynamics sensors. The drilling dynamics data recorder may also include a memory module, the memory module in data communication with the one or more drilling dynamics sensors and a communication port, the communication port in data communication with the memory module. The drilling dynamics data recorder may further include an electrical energy source, the electrical energy source in electrical communication with the memory module, the one or more drilling dynamics sensors, and the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: SANVEAN TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Junichi Sugiura, Stephen Jones
  • Patent number: 11187073
    Abstract: An apparatus for protecting an electronics module used in a borehole may include an enclosure disposed along a drill string. The electronics module may be attached to the enclosure by at least one joint. The at least one joint allows a predetermined bending between the electronics module and the enclosure that does not mechanically overload the electronics module. In some embodiments, the joint may be a ball joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventors: Carsten Haubold, Joachim Treviranus, Tim Mueller, Andreas Peter
  • Patent number: 10877462
    Abstract: Systems and methods for predicting drilling tool failure based on an analysis of at least one of a plot of jerk and inverse jerk for the drilling tool and a plot of drilling tool failure pattern trends data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: LANDMARK GRAPHICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robello Samuel, Aravind Prabhakar, Christopher Neil Marland
  • Patent number: 10774614
    Abstract: A downhole well device for positioning within a well having a fluid, comprising an outer casing comprising a port, an inner casing at least partially located within the outer casing, seals between the inner casing and the outer casing, a rupture disk located in the port, a substance located in a space between the rupture disk and the inner casing, wherein the substance is exothermically reactive with the fluid, and a sensor configured to detect an exothermic reaction within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul D. Ringgenberg
  • Patent number: 10655401
    Abstract: A cutting element has a port extending through at least a portion of the cutting element body. A cutting face of the cutting element includes an ultrahard material. The port is configured to provide fluid communication therethrough and to direct focused energy from a focused energy source through the cutting element toward a formation proximate the cutting face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael G. Azar, Madapusi Keshavan, Iain Michael Cooper
  • Patent number: 10519765
    Abstract: A system for tracking an object in oil and gas wellbore operations wherein a releasable object carrying a first signal system is released into tube system associated with a wellbore. The first signal system communicates with one or more second signal systems positioned along the travel path of the object; along the surface of the formation; and/or throughout the wellbore. First signal system and the second signal system may communicate by RF signals. First signal system and any second signal systems positioned on the surface communicate by through-the-earth or very low frequency signals. A global positioning system may be utilized in conjunction with any second signal systems on the surface to identify the absolute location of the object in the underground wellbore. The first signal system carried by the object may be a piezoelectric system disposed to transmit a signal when the object experiences a predetermined pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas F. Budler
  • Patent number: 10465499
    Abstract: A system for tracking an object in oil and gas wellbore operations wherein a releasable object carrying a first signal system is released into tube system associated with a wellbore. The first signal system communicates with one or more second signal systems positioned along the travel path of the object; along the surface of the formation; and/or throughout the wellbore. First signal system and the second signal system may communicate by RF signals. First signal system and any second signal systems positioned on the surface communicate by through-the-earth or very low frequency signals. A global positioning system may be utilized in conjunction with any second signal systems on the surface to identify the absolute location of the object in the underground wellbore. The first signal system carried by the object may be a piezoelectric system disposed to transmit a signal when the object experiences a predetermined pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas Frederick Budler
  • Patent number: 10352111
    Abstract: An assembly for use in subsurface drilling includes a downhole probe supported in a drill string section by centralizing features that are integral with the drill string section. A bore wall of the drill string section is fluted to provide inward contact points that support the downhole probe. The downhole probe may be supported for substantially its entire length. A vibration damping and/or electrically insulating material may optionally be provided between the downhole probe and the drill string section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron W. Logan, Justin C. Logan, Patrick R. Derkacz, David A. Switzer
  • Patent number: 10344568
    Abstract: A device for use in a subterranean well can include a component which degrades in the well, the component being at least one of the group comprising: a) an electrical element which conducts electricity in the well, b) a magnetic element which produces a magnetic field in the well, and c) a substrate which structurally supports an electrical circuit. A method of constructing a device for use in a subterranean well can include determining an environmental condition to be experienced by a component of the device in the well, the component being at least one of the group comprising: a) an electrical element which conducts electricity in the well, b) a magnetic element which produces a magnetic field in the well, and c) a substrate which supports an electrical circuit; selecting the component which degrades when exposed to the environmental condition; and incorporating the component into the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary R. Murphree, Michael L. Fripp
  • Patent number: 10260345
    Abstract: A shield-carried noncontact frequency-domain electrical real-time advanced detection system and method are provided. Noncontact electrodes are installed on a cutter head of a shield tunneling machine, current is emitted and received using capacitance coupling, the electrodes are connected to a host via a multi-way swivel joint, measured data is inversed and interpreted in real time, and the prediction result is transmitted to a control system of the shield tunneling machine so as to provide a technical support for safety construction of the shield tunneling machine; the noncontact electrodes are installed on the shield cutter head. Real-time advanced detection of geology in front of a tunnel face can be realized in the tunneling process, so that the requirement for quick tunneling construction is met, and the efficiency of advanced geological detection of the shield tunneling machine is improved; and an electrode system is only installed on the cutter head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: SHANDONG UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Shucai Li, Lichao Nie, Bin Liu, Haidong Liu, Yuxiao Ren, Jie Song, Zhengyu Liu, Qian Guo, Chuanwu Wang
  • Patent number: 10113412
    Abstract: An assembly for use in subsurface drilling includes a downhole probe supported by a locking mechanism with a bore of a drill string section. The probe comprises a first spider and a second spider at the uphole and downhole sections of the probe. The locking mechanism secures the probes in the bore against axial and rotational movement relative the drill string section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron W. Logan, Justin C. Logan, David A. Switzer
  • Patent number: 10006280
    Abstract: An assembly for use in subsurface drilling includes a drill collar section having a bore extending longitudinally through an inner surface of the drill collar section. A pocket is formed in a section of the inner surface of the drill collar section. A holster is located in the pocket and a sleeve is snuggly fitted inside the bore in order to secure the holster inside the pocket. The sleeve may be sealed to the drill collar section for example by seals such as O-rings such that the holster is sealed from the bore. O-rings may be located on one or both of the inside of the inner surface of the collar or on the outside of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron W. Logan, David A. Switzer
  • Patent number: 9964662
    Abstract: A measurement tool, primarily for use in a bore hole, has a neutron source located within a housing and a neutron-based detector located within the housing. At least one of the neutron source and the neutron-based detector offset from a longitudinal axis of rotation. The axially offset neutron source or neutron-based detector allow directional measurements to be made of the formations surrounding the bore hole by rotating the tool within the bore hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Roke Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Hermann Kramer
  • Patent number: 9835760
    Abstract: A well logging tool includes a neutron generator to generate and emit energetic neutrons using substantially exclusively a T-T fusion reaction. The well logging tool can include measuring instrumentation for measurement and logging of formation parameters based on elastic scattering in subsurface formations of neutrons emitted by the neutron generator. The neutron generator can have a concentric layout, in which a cylindrical target structure loaded with tritium particles is located co-axially in an elongate cylindrical housing, with mobile tritium ions being accelerated radially inwardly into impact with the target structure. Production of the mobile tritium ions may be by field ionization through operation of a nano-structure field ionization array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Juan Navarro-Sorroche, Weijun Guo
  • Patent number: 9741492
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for storing information or energy. An array of nano-capacitors is provided, where each nano-capacitor has a plurality of cathodic regions and an anode separated from each of the cathodic regions by one or more intervening dielectrics. Each nano-capacitor acts as a quantum resonator thereby suppressing electron emission. The thickness of the intervening dielectric is in the range between 0.1 nanometers and 1000 nanometers and is shorter than an electron mean free path within the dielectric. Each cathodic region is at least 100 times larger than the thickness of the intervening dielectric in every direction transverse to the thickness of the intervening dielectric. An excess of electrons is stored on the cathodic regions. The dielectric may be a metal oxide, particularly a native oxide of the cathode material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventor: Alfred W. Hübler
  • Patent number: 9194966
    Abstract: A system to detect ionizing particles includes an enclosure which holds a fluid in a tensioned metastable state. The interaction of a particle with the liquid creates a respective vapor pocket that can be seen and recorded, and also results in a shock wave that can be heard and recorded. The level of tension metastability in combination with agents, such as Be and B atoms, and surfactants that minimize evaporation losses is associated with a particular type of particle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Sagamore/Adams Laboratories LLC
    Inventor: Rusi Taleyarkhan
  • Patent number: 9187998
    Abstract: A method and apparatus according to which one or more zones of interest within a hydrocarbon wellbore are tested. In several exemplary embodiments, the apparatus includes a drill collar section including an outer surface, a pocket accessible through an aperture in the outer surface, a bottle assembly disposed within the pocket, and an intermediate clamp coupled to the outer surface and spanning the pocket. In several exemplary embodiments, the intermediate clamp has an axial length less than an axial length of the bottle assembly. The intermediate clamp is adapted to at least partially retain a sample bottle assembly within the pocket when the sample bottle drill collar section is disposed within the hydrocarbon wellbore. In several exemplary embodiments, the drill collar section further includes at least one of: one or more spacers disposed within the pocket and an epoxy disposed within the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher V. Sherrill, Clive D. Menezes
  • Patent number: 9097099
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device including an apparatus for measuring drilling or coring operation parameters using a bit attached to the end of a drill string, the measuring apparatus (10) being housed in a chamber (5) provided in a sleeve (1, 18) that is designed to be positioned between two drill pipes of the drill string or between the bit and a drill pipe of the drill string, or to form a coupling (18) for joining a cutting head (15) of the bit to a drill string, the chamber (5) leading into an axial channel (11) of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: TERCEL IP LTD
    Inventor: Sébastian Desmette
  • Patent number: 9018591
    Abstract: A tool comprising a tool body having an opening defined by interior walls extending into the tool body and a casing disposed within the opening. The tool further includes a scintillator material disposed within the casing and a first compressive member disposed within the tool body at a first axial location. The first axial location extends for a fraction of a total axial length of the casing and exerts a first radially compressive force at the first axial location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Ceramics & Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Herr, John H. Frank
  • Publication number: 20150101866
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a radiation source to output radiation after power is supplied. The apparatus also includes a power source to supply power. The apparatus includes an ambient-activated switch electrically coupled between the radiation source and the power source. The ambient-activated switch is to switch to an open position while a value for an ambient characteristic for the ambient-activated switch is at an ambient level for a surface of the Earth. The ambient-activated switch is to switch to a closed position while the value for the ambient characteristic for the ambient-activated switch is at a downhole ambient level, wherein the ambient-activated switch is to electrically couple the power source to the radiation source while in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Daniel F. Dorffer, Donald L. Crawford
  • Patent number: 8991519
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for magnetic field measurements to determine the proximity of a nearby target incorporating electrically conductive material includes a drill string (54) having multiple drill pipe sections (56, 57, 58, 59) connected end-to-end, with at least one of the drill pipe sections (57) being electrically conductive and isolated to provide an electrode section. A nonmagnetic drill pipe section (84) is connected in the drill string below the electrode section (57), and a hydraulic motor (62) having a rotatable drill bit sub (70) carrying a magnetic field sensing instrument package (102) is connected to a lowermost end of the drill string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur F. Kuckes
  • Publication number: 20150053485
    Abstract: A bottom hole assembly for a drill string has a mud motor and a mandrel. The motor has a rotor driven by drilling fluid flow, and the rotor defines a bore for passage of fluid flow and/or conductors. The mandrel has a bore for passage of the conductors and/or fluid flow, and rotation of the mandrel rotates a drill bit. A shaft and universal joints transfer the drive of the rotor to the mandrel. To pass the conductors from a sonde uphole of the motor to electronics disposed with the mandrel and/or to conduct fluid flow, inner beams dispose in a bore of the shaft to seal at the ends of the shaft coupled to the first and second universal joints. Each beam has an internal passage for the conductors and/or fluid flow. One of the universal joints and inner beams compensate for eccentricity in motion of the rotor, while the other second universal joint and inner beam compensate for a bend in the downhole assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Gregory Richard Altimas, Rishi Shankar Gurjar, Andrew Went
  • Patent number: 8944162
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a radiation source to output radiation after power is supplied. The apparatus also includes a power source to supply power. The apparatus includes an ambient-activated switch electrically coupled between the radiation source and the power source. The ambient-activated switch is to switch to an open position while a value for an ambient characteristic for the ambient-activated switch is at an ambient level for a surface of the Earth. The ambient-activated switch is to switch to a closed position while the value for the ambient characteristic for the ambient-activated switch is at a downhole ambient level, wherein the ambient-activated switch is to electrically couple the power source to the radiation source while in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel F. Dorffer, Donald L. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20150008037
    Abstract: Method of drilling a well, including one method comprising determining a first value indicative of a relative position of a geological bed boundary with respect to a drilling assembly, determining a second value indicative of an optical property of a formation fluid proximate the drilling assembly, and controlling a well trajectory based on the first and second value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Oliver C. Mullins, Shahid A. Haq
  • Patent number: 8875807
    Abstract: Exemplary methods, systems and components disclosed herein provide propagation of light signals from an external source to a borehole mining mole which includes an optical/electric transducer configured to provide propulsive power for the borehole mining mole and its associated mineral prospecting tools. Some embodiments include one or more umbilicals connected from a remote source location to an onboard reel incorporated with the borehole mining mole. The umbilicals are spooled outwardly or inwardly from the onboard reel during traverse of the borehole mining mole along a path in an earthen environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Clarence T. Tegreene, Charles Whitmer, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • Patent number: 8857538
    Abstract: In a method for drilling a borehole real time geosteering data, including natural gamma ray data is obtained for a plurality of borehole positions for drilling a borehole along a projected trajectory. A formation layer having a thickness equal to or greater than the natural gamma ray sphere of influence and having a first lithology is identified. Data is processed for subsequent borehole positions. Upon location of the boundary of a formation layer of different lithology within the natural gamma ray sphere of influence, at least two points of the different formation layer boundary are determined by using the inverse problem methods, and an extrapolation ahead of the drill bit of at least two points is made utilizing the boundary to determine whether to change the borehole trajectory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Pogrebinsky
  • Patent number: 8695728
    Abstract: A drill bit made according to one embodiment includes a source configured to induce radiation into a formation during drilling of a wellbore and a sensor in the drill bit configured to detect radiation from the formation responsive to the radiation induced by the source. The drill bit may further include a circuit configured to process signals received from the sensor to estimate a property of the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Tu Tien Trinh, Eric Sullivan, David A. Curry, Xiaomin C. Cheng, Feyzi Inanc, Yi Liu
  • Patent number: 8392120
    Abstract: A method for determining fracture geometry of a subterranean formation from radiation emitted from a fracture in the formation, including measuring gamma-radiation emitted from the fracture; subtracting background radiation from the measured gamma-radiation to obtain a peak-energy measurement; comparing the peak-energy measurement with a gamma-ray transport/spectrometer response model; and determining formation fracture geometry of the fracture in accordance with values associated with the response model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Momentive Specialty Chemicals Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. McDaniel, Cody Ryan Peeples, Robin Pierce Gardner
  • Patent number: 8322462
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for magnetic field measurements to determine the proximity of a nearby target incorporating electrically conductive material includes a drill string (54) having multiple drill pipe sections (56, 57, 58, 59) connected end-to-end, with at least one of the drill pipe sections (57) being electrically conductive and isolated to provide an electrode section. A nonmagnetic drill pipe section (84) is connected in the drill string below the electrode section (57), and a hydraulic motor (62) having a rotatable drill bit sub (70) carrying a magnetic field sensing instrument package (102) is connected to a lowermost end of the drill string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur F. Kuckes
  • Patent number: 8220562
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for magnetic field measurements to determine the proximity of a nearby target incorporating electrically conductive material includes a drill string (54) having multiple drill pipe sections (56, 57, 58, 59) connected end-to-end, with at least one of the drill pipe sections (57) being electrically conductive and isolated to provide an electrode section. A nonmagnetic drill pipe section (84) is connected in the drill string below the electrode section (57), and a hydraulic motor (62) having a rotatable drill bit sub (70) carrying a magnetic field sensing instrument package (102) is connected to a lowermost end of the drill string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur F. Kuckes
  • Patent number: 8210280
    Abstract: A drill bit made according to one embodiment includes at least a gamma ray sensor configured to provide signals representative of a presence and/or amount of a naturally occurring gamma ray source when the drill bit is used for cutting into a formation. A circuit may be configured to process signals from the gamma ray sensor to provide an estimate a parameter relating to the naturally occurring gamma ray source, which may used for purposes such as optimizing drilling parameters and geosteering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Tu Tien Trinh, Eric Sullivan, David A. Curry
  • Publication number: 20120055710
    Abstract: A measurement system for collecting data. In some embodiments, the measurement system includes a tubular suspended downhole, the tubular having an outer surface and a flowbore extending therethrough, the flowbore conveying a fluid, a first recess formed in the outer surface of the tubular, a first detection system mounted in the first recess, a second recess formed in the outer surface of the tubular, and a second detection system mounted in the second recess. The second recess is offset relative to the first recess by at least one of an axial distance and a circumferential distance. The first detection system is operable to measure a portion of the data, and the second detection system operable to measure another portion of the data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Adan Hernandez Herrera, James H. Dudley, Michael Dewayne Finke, Christopher Allen Golla
  • Patent number: 8113298
    Abstract: A wireline apparatus for deep well measurements in a borehole being drilled includes a drill string having multiple drill pipe sections connected end-to-end, with at least one of the drill pipe sections being electrically conductive and isolated to provide an electrode section. A nonmagnetic drill pipe section is connected in the drill string below said electrode section, and a hydraulic motor having a rotatable drill bit carrying a drill bit instrument sub having a magnetic field sensing instrument package is connected to a lowermost end of the drill string. A wireline locatable within said drill string incorporates an electrode locatable within the drill pipe electrode section, and carries at its distal end a wireline instrument package that is locatable within the nonmagnetic drill pipe section to receive data representing magnetic field data from the magnetic field sensing instrument package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Vector Magnetics LLC
    Inventor: Arthur F. Kuckes
  • Patent number: 7832501
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining the nature of the formation at the bottom of a wellbore being drilled with a tubular drill string through which drilling fluid is pumped to return the drilling fluid to the surface via the wellbore, the apparatus comprising a tool body for installation in a drill string with a bore extending there through and an ultraviolet fluorescence detector in a passageway in the tool body, the tool body being configured to receive drilling fluid from inside the drill string and to receive drilling fluid from outside the drill string, wherein the drilling fluid can be directed past the detector so as to enable measurements to be made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Fadhel Rezgui, Stéphane Vannuffelen
  • Publication number: 20100155137
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a downhole tool string component comprises a tubular body with a first and a second tool joint adapted to connect to adjacent tool string components, and a central bore adapted to pass drilling mud between the joints. A sleeve circumferentially disposed about an outer surface of the tubular body. The sleeve is rigidly attached to the outer surface at first and second sleeve ends and forming at least three stabilizer blades. A nuclear source and at least one nuclear detector are disposed within a gap formed between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the tubular body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Paula Turner, Scott Woolston, Nathan Nelson
  • Publication number: 20100122847
    Abstract: A method for displaying a formation model while drilling a wellbore in the formation includes operating a well logging instrument at a measurement point in the formation along a wellbore while the wellbore is being drilled. Measurement data regarding the formation are obtained from the well logging instrument. An actual orientation of a geological structure is determined from the measurement data. A trajectory of the wellbore is displayed in three dimensions as it is being drilled through the formation. While drilling the wellbore, the geological structure is displayed along the trajectory of the wellbore according to the determined actual orientation of the geological structure. The actual orientation reflects an azimuth angle of planes corresponding to the geological structure. The trajectory of the wellbore is changed in response to displaying the determined actual orientation of the geological structure relative to the trajectory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: PEIWEN XIA, Jan W. Smits, Lawrence Chou, Qiming Li, Dzevat Omeragic, James F. Bristow, Paul A. Wand, Jean-Michel Denichou
  • Publication number: 20100004867
    Abstract: Methods and related systems are described for predicting a response of a gamma ray measurement tool located in a borehole surrounded by a subterranean formation. A response of the tool is calculated according to one or more properties at a plurality of spatial locations in relation to the measurement tool using a forward model that assumes a non-linear relationship between the one or more properties at the plurality of spatial locations and the corresponding response of the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Tong Zhou, Jeffrey Robert Miles
  • Patent number: 7567869
    Abstract: Measurements made with an induction logging tool are processed to provide a resistivity model of fluid invasion of the formation. Up to five zones can be determined over a radial distance of about 0.6 m. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Marina N. Nikitenko, Leonty A. Tabarovsky, Mikhail I. Epov
  • Publication number: 20090166088
    Abstract: A core sample acquisition device includes a core receiving barrel configured to couple to a drill string proximate a core drilling bit. The device includes a sensor for determining a property of a core sample urged into the receiving barrel by drilling the core sample. The sample acquisition device includes a communication device for transmitting signals from the sensor over at least one of an electrical and an optical communication channel associated with the drill string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Benjamin P. Jeffryes, Lee Doman
  • Patent number: 7536262
    Abstract: A method for tracking a sinusoidal electromagnetic signal in noisy data using a Kalman filter or other tracking algorithm. The method is useful for controlled source electromagnetic surveying where longer source-receiver offsets can cause the source signal to decay significantly and be difficult to retrieve from magnetotelluric or other electromagnetic background.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Scott Hornbostel, Xinyou Lu
  • Publication number: 20090095529
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining the nature of the formation at the bottom of a wellbore being drilled with a tubular drill string through which drilling fluid is pumped to return the drilling fluid to the surface via the wellbore, the apparatus comprising a tool body for installation in a drill string with a bore extending there through and an ultraviolet fluorescence detector in a passageway in the tool body, the tool body being configured to receive drilling fluid from inside the drill string and to receive drilling fluid from outside the drill string, wherein the drilling fluid can be directed past the detector so as to enable measurements to be made.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Fadhel Rezgui, Stephane Vannuffelen
  • Publication number: 20080156533
    Abstract: An expanding auger axis with a hollow end adapted to receive an unmovable sensor tube in which gamma ray, gamma spectrograph, and/or neutron sensors may be placed, the auger adapted to rotate or circulate a discrete media about the sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Konstandinos S. Zamfes
  • Patent number: 7350568
    Abstract: A method for logging a well. Includes receiving energy with at least one array of elements coupled to a drill bit, wherein the at least one array of elements functions as an electronic array. An apparatus for logging a well includes a drill bit and at least one array of elements coupled to the drill bit, wherein the at least one array of elements functions as an electronic array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Batakrishna Mandal, Michael S. Bittar
  • Patent number: 7347280
    Abstract: Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller
  • Patent number: 7178607
    Abstract: A while drilling system and method for determining annular pressure while drilling is provided. The system is positioned in a drilling tool suspended from a drilling rig via a drill string. The system includes at least one drill collar, a while drilling tool and at least one external sensor. The drill collar has a tubular sidewall defining a passage therein for the flow of drilling mud therethrough. The while drilling tool is supported in the passage of the at least one drill collar and selectively retrievable therefrom. The external sensor is positioned in the sidewall of the drill collar and isolated from the passage. The sensor is exposed to the wellbore for measurement thereof and adapted to wirelessly communicate with the while drilling tool. The system is preferably adapted for use in high temperature and pressure environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: James C. Mayes
  • Patent number: 7080699
    Abstract: A gap collar for an electromagnetic communication unit of a downhole tool positioned in a wellbore is provided. The downhole tool communicates with a surface unit via an electromagnetic field generated by the electromagnetic communication unit. The gap collar includes a first collar having a first end connector and a second collar having a second end connector matingly connectable to the first end connector. The gap collar further includes a non-conductive insulation coating disposed on the first and/or second end connectors, and a non-conductive insulation molding positioned about an inner and/or outer surface of the collars. The insulation molding moldingly conforms to the shape collars. The connectors are provided with mated threads modified to receive the insulation coating. Measurements taken by the downhole tool may be stored in memory, and transmitted to the surface unit via the electromagnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John Lovell, Qingyan He, Frank Shray
  • Patent number: 7077200
    Abstract: A light generating system for use in a wellbore comprising a light generating transducer in the wellbore, the light generating transducer adapted to transform a physical state of a parameter in the wellbore to optical energy; recording equipment sensitive to optical energy to record a physical state; and an optical waveguide for conveying the optical energy from the light generating transducer to receiving equipment. Methods for generating optical energy in a wellbore and methods for measuring parameters in a wellbore using optical energy are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Sarmad Adnan, Michael G. Gay, Micheal H. Kenison
  • Patent number: 7059404
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for varying an operating parameter for a nuclear gamma ray tool for evaluating the integrity of gravel packing. The gamma ray outpat intensity and area of investigation are altered by changing a source housing geometry and the material from which the source housing is made. An actuator is provided to slide a variable electron density sleeve over the source and to vary the area of investigation by changing the distance between the source and a detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Core Laboratories L.P.
    Inventors: Michael J. Flecker, Larry Stephenson, J. Thomas Hampton, III
  • Patent number: 7021403
    Abstract: Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller