Well Logging Patents (Class 181/102)
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Patent number: 9611730Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using multi-component geophones and/or multi-component geophone arrays to measure flow-induced acoustic energy produced in wellbores are provided. With the use of the multi-component geophones, the measured acoustic energy may be resolved into its directional components. The computed directional energy components may be mathematically compared to numerically highlight ambient flow conditions (e.g., leaks in casing or other conduit, points of fluid entry/exit/restrictions between the casing and the formation). The use of an array of multi-component geophones allows for the use of geophone move-out curves to further identify acoustic energy source locations.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2013Date of Patent: April 4, 2017Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLCInventors: Brian Rochford, John Arbeau, Jim Rangel
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Well testing apparatus and methods for measuring the properties and performance of oil and gas wells
Patent number: 9612360Abstract: To determine properties of multiple oil and gas wells, oscillations at different test frequencies are applied to the flow rate and/or pressure of multiple wells. Measurements of flow rate and/or pressure and temperature in flows downstream of a production header of the multiple wells are then obtained. Such measurements from the flows of the multiple wells are subjected to a frequency analysis of the pressure, flow rate and/or temperature measurements to determine pressure, flow rate and/or temperature variations induced by the applied oscillations. Properties of the different wells of the multiple wells based on the results of the frequency analysis are thus determined.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2012Date of Patent: April 4, 2017Assignees: NORWEGIAN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (NTNU), SINTEF TTO ASInventors: Federico Zenith, Johannes Tjønnas, Ingrid Schjølberg, Bjarne Foss, Vidar Gunnerud -
Patent number: 9574441Abstract: A method for modulating a downhole telemetry signal uses a fluid pressure pulse generator that generates pressure pulses of multiple pulse heights in a drilling fluid. The method comprises: converting measurement data into a bitstream comprising symbols of a selected symbol set; encoding the bitstream into a pressure pulse telemetry signal using a modulation technique that includes amplitude shift keying, wherein each symbol of the selected symbol set is assigned a pressure pulse having a unique amplitude; and generating pressure pulses in the drilling fluid corresponding to the telemetry signal. Alternatively, the method can comprise a modulation technique that includes amplitude shift keying and phase shift keying and wherein each symbol of the selected symbol set is assigned a pressure pulse having a unique combination of amplitude and phase.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.Inventors: Jili Liu, Mingdong Xu, David A. Switzer, Aaron W. Logan
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Patent number: 9567845Abstract: A seismic sensor for a downhole tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The seismic sensor includes a sensor housing, a bobbin supported in the sensor housing along an axis thereof, at least one coil wound about the bobbin (the coil movably supportable within the sensor housing by at least one spring), at least one magnet positionable about the bobbin to generate a magnetic field with the at least one coil whereby seismic vibrations are detectable, and a filler fluid disposed in the sensor housing to buoy the at least one coil whereby gravitational effects may be neutralized.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2013Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Toru Ikegami
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Patent number: 9550241Abstract: A flange bolt cutter for separating two connected flanges. The flange bolt cutter contains a circular saw blade connected to an flange mount which can be vertically adjusted relative to the flange mount and/or includes two arms which can be pivotally adjusted relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2016Date of Patent: January 24, 2017Assignee: Francis Torq/Lite, Inc.Inventors: James Dodd Smith, Michael T. Ramsey
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Patent number: 9547098Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may operate to measure compressional wave velocities in a geological formation surrounding a first well, to provide measured compressional wave velocity data, and to subsequently determine corrected compressional wave velocities for the first well. These corrected compressional wave velocities for the first well may be determined using a combination of the measured compressional wave velocity data and corrected compressional wave velocity data associated with one or more second wells. Predicted pore pressure data for the first well may be subsequently generated, using the corrected compressional wave velocities for the first well. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are described.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Landmark Graphics CorporationInventors: Shuling Li, Cary C Purdy
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Patent number: 9476297Abstract: This invention comprises systems, methods and apparatus for mud pulse telemetry involving sending benchmark pulses with known characteristics (such as amplitude or duration) from the surface to the BHA, measuring those characteristics at the BHA, using those measurements to predict the likely attenuation of downhole-to-surface mud pulse transmissions, and adjusting those transmissions to compensate for high attenuation or to obtain energy savings (or transmission rate increases) during low-attenuation conditions. Further refinements on these systems and methods, particularly concerning the use of signal-to-noise ratio measurements at the surface to more efficiently predict attenuation, are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2014Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.Inventors: Aaron W. Logan, Jili Liu, David A. Switzer
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Patent number: 9476271Abstract: A flow control system for drilling a well comprises a conduit defining a channel configured to accommodate a drill pipe and a flow of a returning drilling fluid, and an acoustic sensor array configured to detect a flow rate of the returning drilling fluid. The flow control system further comprises a flow control device configured to control the flow rate of the returning drilling fluid and to be actuated in response to an event detected by the sensor array, the flow control device being proximate to the sensor array.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2013Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Robert Arnold Judge, Christopher Edward Wolfe, Fengsu Liu, Li Liu, Farshad Ghasripoor
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Patent number: 9458712Abstract: A stacked-ring, slow-wave acoustic telemetry isolation system and method for use with tubular assemblies such as drillpipe or production tubing comprising an acoustic wave transmitter, the acoustic isolator behaving such that a “down” wave propagated toward the isolator is reflected back substantially in phase with an “up” wave propagated from the acoustic wave source away from the isolator. The acoustic isolator is similarly effective in reflecting “up” propagating waves originating from below the isolator, hence further protecting the acoustic wave source from possible deleterious interference. It causes substantially all of the emitted wave energy to travel in a chosen direction along the drill pipe, thus aiding the efficiency of acoustic telemetry said pipe.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry, Inc.Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, David D. Whalen, Douglas S. Drumheller
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Patent number: 9403671Abstract: A micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor is excited. The response of the MEMS sensor is measured. The MEMS sensor is calibrated.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Brian D. Homeijer, Robert Newton Bicknell
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Patent number: 9322942Abstract: A streamer for seismic prospection comprising directional sensors (20), such as geophones or accelerometers, distributed along the streamer, characterized in that said streamer comprises at least two tilt sensors (30, 40) located in remote positions and in locations distant from the directional sensors (20) and means which determined the effective orientation of each directional sensor (20) by interpolating along the streamer the tilt detected by the two tilt sensors (30, 40).Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2013Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: SERCELInventors: Gaetan Mellier, John Hepp, Mike Maples, Simon Leboeuf, Isabelle Sellin
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Patent number: 9260958Abstract: An apparatus for acoustic imaging includes an array with a number of acoustic transducers. Each acoustic transducer transmits and receives acoustic signals. The apparatus also includes a control unit that is coupled to the array and selectively powers a number of acoustic transducers based upon standoff distance between the array and an object-of-interest (e.g., a borehole wall). In some embodiments, the control unit also varies the frequency of acoustic signals transmitted from the array using the standoff distance between the array and the object-of-interest.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Ralph M. D'Angelo
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Patent number: 9213905Abstract: A method of automatic obstacle location mapping comprises receiving an indication of a feature to be identified in a defined area. An instance of the feature is found within an image. A report is then generated conveying the location of said feature.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2012Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Arthur F. Lange, Michael Cash, Martin C. Bringuel, Robert J. Lindores, Shawn D. Weisenburger, Peter G. France, James M. Janky
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Patent number: 9115568Abstract: A downhole measurement tool includes at least one regular receiver and at least one reference receiver externally deployed on a tool body. The reference receiver is configured to be acoustically isolated from the borehole, for example, via an isolation structure including a high-impedance cap and a low-impedance gap. The reference receiver may be deployed in a linear array with the regular receiver(s) and may be substantially identical to the regular receiver(s) such that it has substantially the same sensitivity to tool mode signals and internal drilling noise as do the regular receivers. Received waveforms may be processed so as to remove tool mode arrivals and/or drilling noise.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2009Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Wei Han, Jun Zhang, Paul Boonen
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Patent number: 9103203Abstract: A value of a property of a fluid-filled wellbore system can be detected. This can be accomplished by recording data including at least one of pressure and rate of flow at one or more locations in the wellbore system, and then estimating the value of the property by employing a model for predicting at least one of pressure and rate of flow dependent upon characteristics and locations of disturbances to pressure and flow in the wellbore system, in order to determine a best prediction of some attribute of the recorded data.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2007Date of Patent: August 11, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Douglas E. Miller, Philip Sullivan, Richard Timothy Coates, Francois Auzerais, Tarek M. Habashy, Dominique Guillot, Rod Shampine
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Patent number: 9080427Abstract: Apparatuses useable in an offshore drilling installation close to the seabed for controlling well influx within a wellbore are provided. An apparatus includes a centralizer and flow constrictor assembly, a sensor and a controller. The centralizer and flow constrictor assembly are configured to centralize a drill string within a drill riser and regulate a return mud flow. The sensor is located close to the centralizer and flow constrictor assembly and configured to acquire values of at least one parameter related to the return mud flow. The controller is coupled to the centralizer and flow constrictor assembly and the sensor. The controller is configured to control the centralizer and flow constrictor assembly to achieve a value of a control parameter close to a predetermined value, based on the values acquired by the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2012Date of Patent: July 14, 2015Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Farshad Ghasripoor, Christopher Edward Wolfe, Thomas James Batzinger, Gary Dwayne Mandrusiak, Robert Arnold Judge
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Patent number: 9081110Abstract: Downhole seismic sources that may be compatible measurement-while-drilling systems. The downhole seismic sources are integrated into drill string components, including drill collars of the bottom hole assembly. The downhole seismic sources may generate a low swept frequency signal suitable for imaging around the drill-string and ahead of the drill bit. Integrated downhole seismic systems including a downhole seismic source, receivers and optionally data processing capabilities. The integrated systems may be configured to determine the distance and orientation of bed boundaries, including ahead of the drill bit up to about 200 m to 500 m in depth. Methods for downhole seismic, including single well and cross-well seismic. The methods may include obtaining seismic information ahead of the drill bit.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2012Date of Patent: July 14, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jacques Orban, Neilkunal Panchal
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Publication number: 20150143888Abstract: A dipole source for borehole acoustic logging is provided, including a cylindrical shell, a center beam coupled to the cylindrical shell and a movable projector inside the cylindrical shell to impact the center beam. The dipole source includes a cavity acoustically insulating the interior of the cylindrical shell from the exterior of the cylindrical shell. An acoustic logging tool for making measurements of a substrate surrounding a borehole with a body insertable in the borehole is also provided. The body includes an acoustic detector and a dipole source as above, along the axial length. The acoustic logging tool may include a control unit to process data collected from the acoustic detector and obtain information about the substrate surrounding the borehole. According to embodiments disclosed herein, a method for operating a dipole source and an acoustic logging tool as above is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2012Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventors: Chung Chang, Haoshi Song, Wei Zhang
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Patent number: 9038765Abstract: Neutrally-buoyant tools for seismic data collection are provided that may range from several hundred meters to several kilometers in length and have integrated sensors which move along with the borehole fluid in response to a passing seismic wave. The disclosure also provides methods of deploying neutrally-buoyant tools, which includes using a tractor, adding a weight or both to the tool in order to overcome the difficulty of lowering a neutrally buoyant tool into a borehole, and optionally occasionally clamping the tool to the borehole to alleviate tension in the tool. This disclosure also provides methods of acquiring seismic data, which involves positioning a neutrally-buoyant tool in a borehole such that the tool is able to move relatively freely along with the borehole fluid in response to a seismic wave passing through the fluid, firing a seismic source, and using the sensors to collect seismic data generated thereby.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2013Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Nicolas Goujon, Julian Edward Kragh, Philip A. F. Christie, Emmanuel Coste, Clement Kostov, Oeyvind Teigen, Toru Ikegami, Marwan Charara
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Publication number: 20150136516Abstract: The disclosure addresses acoustic receivers including an acoustic isolator structure, and an acoustic logging tool which incorporates the acoustic receiver. The acoustic receiver isolation structure is configured to minimize acoustic transmissions which could otherwise adversely affect acoustical measurements being made by an acoustic receiver. The described acoustic receiver includes a plurality of longitudinally arranged mass members coupled to a central supporting structure, in a configuration to reduce acoustic transmissions in at least selected frequency ranges.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2014Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventors: Chung Chang, Abbas Arian, Randall Bennett Jones, Gary Kainer, Arthur Cheng
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Publication number: 20150096827Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may operate to measure compressional wave velocities in a geological formation surrounding a first well, to provide measured compressional wave velocity data, and to subsequently determine corrected compressional wave velocities for the first well. These corrected compressional wave velocities for the first well may be determined using a combination of the measured compressional wave velocity data and corrected compressional wave velocity data associated with one or more second wells. Predicted pore pressure data for the first well may be subsequently generated, using the corrected compressional wave velocities for the first well. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2012Publication date: April 9, 2015Applicant: Landmark Graphics CorporationInventors: Shuling Li, Cary C. Purdy
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Patent number: 8944183Abstract: The present disclosure is related to apparatuses and methods measuring and processing a characteristic of subsurface earth formations penetrated by a borehole. More specifically this present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for measuring and processing an acoustic characteristic such as formation shear wave velocity of subsurface sonic waves after these waves traverse earth formations adjoining a borehole or passing through a portion of the subsurface. The apparatus may include: a bottomhole assembly, a drill bit configured to generate an acoustic signal, at least two acoustic detectors, and a processor. The acoustic signal may include a specific multipole signal that may propagate through an earth formation along the borehole. The method may include use of the apparatus, including steps for estimating a shear velocity of the acoustic signal using signals from the at least two acoustic detectors.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2011Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Theodorus W. Geerits, Douglas J. Patterson
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Patent number: 8848485Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing sonic well logging within a wellbore based on optical Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) are provided. A sonic well logging system based on DAS may be capable of producing the functional equivalent of tens, hundreds, or even thousands of acoustic sensors. In this manner, the emplacement of the sonic well logging system based on DAS may not be nearly as complex or expensive as emplacing a sonic well logging system based on traditional methods. Furthermore, multiplexing may be simpler, downhole electronics need not be used, and the sonic well logging system may be used in extreme, high temperature environments.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Francis X. Bostick, III
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Patent number: 8831886Abstract: Embodiments of this invention relate to compositions and methods of processing a subterranean formation including collecting microseismic data from one wellbore, collecting amplitude ratio information for the microseismic data, comparing the amplitude ratio to an expected ratio, generating a representation of a formation based on the microseismic data and the comparison of the amplitude ratio and expected ratio, and performing an oil field services activity based on the representation.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Michael John Williams
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Patent number: 8773134Abstract: A logging tool for use in a wellbore having a sensor portion for making measurements. The tool has a sleeve enclosing the sensor portion and made of a material that is transparent to the measurements being made. One or more structural elements having physical characteristics different from the material comprising the sleeve are carried on the sleeve to enhance the mechanical properties of the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Alice Sorbier, James S. Almaguer
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Publication number: 20140121979Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the location of a material located behind an obstruction. A plurality of acoustic resonators (6) having a known resonant frequency are dispersed in the material (3), the material to be located on a first side of the obstruction (2). An instrument (5) is provided at an opposite side of the obstruction to the material. The instrument emits an acoustic signal and measures a response. If the resonant frequency is detected, it is determined that the material is located substantially adjacent to the instrument. The apparatus may be used for determining the height of cement slurry located between a well casing wall and a borehole.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2011Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: STATOIL PETROLEUM ASInventors: Gjermund Grimsbo, Marcus Fathi, Bjarne Bugten
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Patent number: 8682587Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the fluid permeability of an earth formation is described. An instrument comprising an acoustic source and acoustic and electrokinetic sensors is located in a borehole at a site of interest. The acoustic source is fired and the resulting variations in pressure and electric field generated are measured and recorded. The Biot equation, and an equation for the streaming potential coupled to fluid displacement terms, is solved using finite element analysis to give an expected pressure waveform and electrokinetic waveform based on estimated earth formation properties. By comparison of the measured waveforms and those calculated from the equations, the actual permeability of the earth formation can be deduced.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Sondex Wireline LimitedInventors: Julian Singer, Jonathan Howard Saunders, Christopher Pain
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Patent number: 8611183Abstract: Refracted ultrasonic waves are utilized to calculate tool standoff. An ultrasonic transmitter sends a wave toward (and into) the borehole wall at a critical incidence angle for refracted waves. The refracted wave travels along the borehole wall and continuously radiates energy back into the borehole at the critical angle. The refracted wave is detected by a receiver, and the travel time of the refracted acoustic wave from transmitter to receiver is measured and used to calculate standoff. By making repeated measurements at various azimuths (for instance, as the tool rotates), one or more caliper measurements can be made. The caliper measurements can be combined to yield two-dimensional geometry of the borehole. Measurements made at different azimuths and depths yield three-dimensional borehole geometry. Arrays of transmitter-receiver pairs can be used to obviate the need for varying azimuth.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2007Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kenneth William Winkler, Lawrence E. McGowan, Ralph Michael D'Angelo
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Publication number: 20130313037Abstract: An acoustic attenuator assembly for an acoustic tool for performing acoustic investigation of a subterranean formation is disclosed. The acoustic attenuator assembly includes a first end portion (205) and a second end portion (215) having a bore therethrough to enable passage of an electrical line. The acoustic attenuator assembly further includes a fiber portion (230) disposed between the first and second end portion so that the fiber portion attenuates at least a portion of acoustic energy when the acoustic energy is received by one or both of the first (205) and second (215) end portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2011Publication date: November 28, 2013Inventors: Abbas Arian, Randall B. Jones
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Patent number: 8526269Abstract: Methods and systems for acoustically determining reservoir parameters of subterranean formations. A tool comprising at least one seismic source or seismic receiver mounted thereon; a conveyance configured for movement of the acoustic tool in a borehole traversing the subterranean formations; and a source retainer configured or designed for permanent deployment in the borehole to removably retain the acoustic tool in the borehole. The source retainer when deployed provides acoustic coupling with the borehole and removably retains the acoustic tool in the borehole so that, over multiple deployments, the acoustic tool is repeatedly deployed at the same predetermined location and orientation relative to the subterranean formation, and with the same acoustic coupling to the borehole.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Masahiro Kamata, Tsunehisa Kimura
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Patent number: 8464790Abstract: Temperature and pressure measurements that are made downhole are used to predict a compressional wave velocity for pure water under downhole conditions. The predicted velocity and a measured compressional velocity of a formation brine are used in a non-iterative method to estimate a value of the formation brine salinity that is between 0 and 1.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2010Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Rocco DiFoggio
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Patent number: 8408355Abstract: A downhole tool for subsurface disposal is provided. The tool comprises an elongated tool body, an enclosure attached to an exterior surface of the tool body. The enclosure comprises at least one transducer disposed at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the enclosure, and an electronics board coupled to and disposed adjacent to the at least one transducer. The enclosure also defines an internal cavity, and the internal cavity contains a fluid for insulating the at least one transducer from a downhole environment. The fluid is in direct contact with the at least one transducer and the electronics board.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2012Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Miguel F. Pabon, Fernando Garcia Osuna, David B. Ayers
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Patent number: 8400872Abstract: An acoustic energy source for imparting acoustic energy into the Earth's subsurface includes an electrically driven transducer coupled to a source of swept frequency alternating current. A tunable Helmholtz resonator is disposed proximate the transducer. In one example, the resonator has a tuning device configured to maintain a resonant frequency substantially equal to an instantaneous frequency of the alternating current. The tuning device includes an actuator coupled to a sleeve, wherein the sleeve is disposed over selected numbers of openings in a wall of a tube on the resonator. The transducer and the resonator are disposed in a wellbore drilled through rock formations. The wellbore has a plurality of layers of fluid therein, each layer thereof having a different density and/or viscosity.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Acoustic Zoom, Inc.Inventors: Jacques Y. Gulgné, Nicholas G. Pace, Gary J. Dinn, Richard Wright
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Patent number: 8353339Abstract: A device for employing sonic transmissions is utilized to determine fluid level in a well or a container. The device may be utilized while the well is operating. It is known that wells replenish fluid at different rates even in the same formation or well field. Increased well production at minimum pumping cost is achieved for a given well. The device generates a sonic event through the use of a compressed fluid that is obtained from within a well. A fluid level measurement system is obtained in a well in which gas is produced under vacuum.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Hytech Energy, LLCInventors: Sanford A. Burris, David R. Hill
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Patent number: 8270251Abstract: An acoustic isolator for use with tubular assemblies such as drillpipe or production tubing comprising an acoustic wave transmitter, the acoustic isolator comprising, in series connection, an odd integer ?/4 multiple tuning bar of first acoustic impedance adjacent the acoustic wave transmitter, an odd integer ?/4 multiple reflector tube of second acoustic impedance, and a snubber of third acoustic impedance, wherein there is an acoustic impedance mismatch between the odd integer ?/4 multiple tuning bar and the odd integer ?/4 multiple reflector tube and an acoustic impedance mismatch between the odd integer ?/4 multiple reflector tube and snubber, such that a ‘down’ wave propagated toward the isolator is reflected back substantially in phase with an ‘up’ wave propagated from the acoustic wave source away from the isolator.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2009Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry Inc.Inventors: Douglas S. Drumheller, Paul L. Camwell, Anthony R. Dopf, Derek W. Logan
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Patent number: 8261874Abstract: A method for attenuating out of band energy emitted from a seismic source used in a marine seismic survey. The method includes disposing the seismic source in a body of water and releasing a gas into a volume of water surrounding the seismic source. The released gas may be configured such that it displaces the volume of water surrounding the seismic source at a rate less than 2.9×106 cubic-meters per cubic-second.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2011Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Jon-Fredrik Hopperstad, Robert Laws, Julian Edward (Ed) Kragh
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Patent number: 8256565Abstract: An enclosure for housing a transducer and electronics for disposal on a downhole tool. A transducer is disposed at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the enclosure, wherein the enclosure contains a fluid surrounding the transducer. Enclosures also include transducers linked to motor means for selective rotation of the transducers within the enclosure. Enclosures with transducer arrays for phased or targeted signal transmission/detection.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Miguel F. Pabon, Fernando Garcia Osuna, David B. Ayers
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Patent number: 8258975Abstract: A system for communicating with downhole tools and devices is disclosed. The system includes multiple communication devices which, in combination, permit operators at the surface to operate downhole tools and to receive feedback regarding the state of the tools.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Well TechnologyInventors: Bard Martin Tinnen, Oivind Godager, Havar Sortveit
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Patent number: 8220583Abstract: An acoustic isolator section for an acoustic well logging tool, the isolator section comprising: an isolator comprising: (i) an isolator body; (ii) a mass; (iii) a resiliently deformable portion formed integrally with the isolator body; (iv) a movement limiter.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Reeves Wireline Technologies LimitedInventor: Philip Botting
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Patent number: 8136625Abstract: A method for attenuating out of band energy emitted from a seismic source used in a marine seismic survey. The method includes disposing the seismic source in a body of water and releasing a gas into a volume of water surrounding the seismic source. The released gas may be configured such that it displaces the volume of water surrounding the seismic source at a rate less than 2.9×106 cubic-meters per cubic-second.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2010Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Jon-Fredrik Hopperstad, Robert Laws, Julian Edward (Ed) Kragh
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Patent number: 8125848Abstract: Multipole acoustic logging-while-drilling (LWD) tools and associated methods are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the disclosed acoustic LWD tool comprises a transmitter array and at least one receiver array. The transmitter array generates acoustic waves with an excitation pattern having a cutoff frequency greater than about 3 kHz. The receiver array is spaced apart from the transmitter array and is configured to detect said acoustic waves. Some of the disclosed method embodiments comprise: generating multipole acoustic waves in a fluid-filled borehole using an excitation pattern with a cutoff frequency greater than about 3 kHz; selectively detecting acoustic waves that propagate with said excitation pattern; and determining an acoustic shear wave slowness for a formation penetrated by the borehole.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Theodorus W. Geerits, Batakrishna Mandal, Denis P. Schmitt
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Patent number: 8072840Abstract: Method for identifying one or more fracture clusters in a formation surrounding a reservoir. In one implementation, the method may include generating a P to S image, comparing the P to S image to one or more images from a borehole, and identifying one or more fracture clusters using the P to S image and the borehole images.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2010Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Azhar Akhtar
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Method and apparatus for deploying a plurality of seismic devices into a borehole and method thereof
Patent number: 8061470Abstract: Deploying systems and methods for deploying a plurality of seismic devices into a borehole comprising a cable including a plurality of inter-connected cable segments and ellipsoid seismic units with at least two rows of offset seismic protrusions to establish at least three points of contact between the seismic units and adjacent cylindrical surface of a borehole casing.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Tatsuki Endo, Gbenga Onadeko, Masafumi Fukuhara -
Patent number: 8010291Abstract: To process measurement data representing a subterranean structure, a derivative of the measurement data collected by at least one survey receiver is computed, with respect to frequency. A response representing the subterranean structure is then computed based on the derivative of the measurement data, where the response contains an air-wave component that has been suppressed due to computing the derivative of the measurement data relative to at least another component that is sensitive to the subterranean structure.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Jiuping Chen, David L. Alumbaugh, Edward Nichols, Stephen A. Horne, Kevin Eyl
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Patent number: 7997380Abstract: An attenuation apparatus, system, and method are disclosed. The attenuator is attached to a pipe and includes a housing that includes an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve. The attenuator includes one or more masses, to resonate when exposed to waves including acoustic frequency components.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Abbas Arian, Gary L. Fickert, Joakim O. Blanch, Vimal V. Shah, Eugene Linyaev
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Patent number: 7970544Abstract: Stoneley-wave data acquired in the LWD environment are used to characterize/estimate formation permeability. Real-time Stoneley-wave time-delay/slowness and center-frequency/attenuation data are used to indicate/characterize formation permeability even during drilling. The use of stabilizers mounted at the tool ends helps maintain the tool position from severe decentralization, reducing ambiguities in the permeability characterization/estimation.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Xiao Ming Tang, Douglas J. Patterson
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Patent number: 7913806Abstract: A measurement package for disposal on an apparatus such as a downhole tool or a tool like device. The measurement package including an enclosure, a first acoustic transducer housed within the enclosure, a second acoustic transducer housed within the enclosure and electronics housed within the enclosure that is in communication with the first and second transducers. Further, an acoustic transmitter and receivers can be disposed at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the enclosure. The enclosure can contain attenuative material surrounding the transmitter and receivers, and electronics for controlling the transmitter and receivers and communicating with the downhole tool.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Miguel F. Pabon, Fernando Garcia Osuna, David B. Ayers
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Patent number: 7911876Abstract: A method for initializing the input of each of m receiver channels of a receiving transducer in a well logging tool comprising the steps of selecting a logging tool having a multi-element receiving transducer wherein each element of the multi-element receiving transducer operates in an anti-resonant mode below its resonant frequency, and executing a routine in an initialization mode wherein a predetermined number of run cycles are operated and receiver input responses are measured and averaged for each of the m channels while transmitter firing signals are disabled.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Probe Technology Services, Inc.Inventors: Brian Hurst, John L. Marshall
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Patent number: 7889596Abstract: A method and a system for determining the position of a drill bit are presented. The method comprises determining positions of seismic wave detectors, recording seismic waves generated at the drill bit, identifying events at the drill bit, determining a plurality of relative positions of the drill bit, and determining, based at least partly on a starting position and a sum of the relative positions, an absolute position of the drill bit. The method further comprises determining a position of the drill bit at a second event in relation to a position of the drill bit at a first event, and determining a second seismic wave propagation velocity between the drill bit and at least one of the detectors, based at least partly on the determined position of the drill bit at the second event.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2006Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Guideline ABInventor: Jan Hjorth
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Patent number: 7864629Abstract: A monopole acoustic transmitter with at least one disc assembly with a plurality of piezoelectric discs configured to optimized acoustic pressure output within a desired frequency range while meeting physical restrictions of LWD and MWD logging systems. The transmitter is disposed in a recess or “slot” in the perimeter of a logging tool housing to reduce acoustic pressure waves transmitted directly along the tool housing and to optimize acoustic energy transmission into the borehole environs. In order to increase acoustic pressure output at a desired logging frequency range, the plurality of piezoelectric discs in each of at least one disc assembly are connected electrically in parallel and fired simultaneously. The polarity of the discs and the wiring arrangement are such that each disc expands or contracts in a common direction during simultaneous firing by an applied voltage.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2007Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Precision Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Dale A. Jones, Medhat W. Mickael