Wellbore Telemetering Or Control (e.g., Subsurface Tool Guidance, Data Transfer, Etc.) Patents (Class 340/853.1)
  • Publication number: 20140077963
    Abstract: A method of processing parameter data includes: receiving at least one alarm value for a selected interval, the at least one alarm value generated based on a comparison of estimated parameter values at one or more respective interval points with limits at the respective interval points; performing, by a processor, a statistical analysis of the at least one alarm value over the selected interval; and generating an alarm indication associated with the selected interval, the alarm indication corresponding to a result of the statistical analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Stephan Dankers, Daniel Moos
  • Publication number: 20140055277
    Abstract: A system and a method use dual telemetry for tools located in a wellbore. A first telemetry system and a second telemetry system coordinate communication with the tools. Both the first telemetry system and the second telemetry system may transmit data regarding the tools and/or drilling conditions from the tools to a surface location simultaneously. The first telemetry system or the second telemetry system may communicate with the surface location if communication using the other telemetry system is interrupted. The first telemetry system and the second telemetry system may have a master/slave relationship so that data requests from a specific telemetry system do not interfere with data requests from the other telemetry system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Qiming Li, Desheng Zhang, Yi Zhang, Lili Zhong, Tang Xueyan, Brian Oliver Clark
  • Patent number: 8655104
    Abstract: A method for removing cyclic noise from a borehole image includes transforming the image into the frequency domain using a two-dimensional (2-D) Fourier Transform, removing cyclic noise components from the transformed image, and inverse transforming the image back into the spatial domain using an inverse 2-D Fourier Transform. The cyclic noise component may also be isolated by subtracting the corrected image from the original image or by removing all non-cyclic noise components from the transformed image prior to inverse transforming. Removal of the cyclic noise from a borehole image tends to enable the identification of borehole features and provide for improved accuracy in formation parameter evaluation. Evaluation of the cyclic noise component may also enable the source of the noise to be identified and mitigated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Zhang, Zhipeng Liu, Paul Boonen
  • Patent number: 8629782
    Abstract: A system and a method use dual telemetry for tools located in a wellbore. A first telemetry system and a second telemetry system coordinate communication with the tools. Both the first telemetry system and the second telemetry system may transmit data regarding the tools and/or drilling conditions from the tools to a surface location simultaneously. The first telemetry system or the second telemetry system may communicate with the surface location if communication using the other telemetry system is interrupted. The first telemetry system and the second telemetry system may have a master/slave relationship so that data requests from a specific telemetry system do not interfere with data requests from the other telemetry system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Qiming Li, Desheng Zhang, Yi Zhang, Lili Zhong, Tang Xueyan, Brian Clark
  • Publication number: 20140009302
    Abstract: A module gathers information about the level of water in a water well and sends the information to a database. A sensor tracks the level of water in the well, how it changes over time, and the pace of recharge including the rate of water replenishment from the groundwater source. The system can be programmed to send alerts to interested parties when certain thresholds are reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: Wellintel, Inc.
    Inventors: Marian J. Singer, Nicholas D. Hayes, Dale Raymond, Kent A. Tabor, Dan L. Watts
  • Patent number: 8615217
    Abstract: The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, and computer readable media for detecting and mitigating fraud in a distributed monitoring system which includes fixed-location monitoring and communication devices. According to one aspect, a method for detecting and mitigating fraud includes receiving a signaling message that originates or appears to originate from a wireless communication device that is associated with a fixed-location management system that performs at least one of monitoring and control of a resource, wherein the wireless communication device is responsible for communicating information generated by the management system over a network. The method further includes determining whether the signaling message indicates an expected location of the wireless communication device and in response to a determination that the signaling message does not indicate an expected location of the wireless communication device, initiating a mitigating action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Tekelec, Inc.
    Inventors: Venkataramaiah Ravishankar, Peter Joseph Marsico
  • Patent number: 8602108
    Abstract: An embodiment of a method for limiting the probability of failure on demand of a subsea test tree (“SSTT”) includes the steps of providing a safety shut-in system for actuating a safety valve of the SSTT, the safety shut-in system including a surface control station positioned above a water surface connected via an umbilical to a subsea control system positioned below the water surface to actuate the safety valve; and diagnostically testing the safety shut-in system without actuating the safety valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: David James Mathis
  • Publication number: 20130321164
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems are provided for collecting data from a plurality of downhole sensors located in a wellbore utilizing an asynchronous direct-sequence code division multiple access (DS-CDMA)-based communication scheme. One example method includes receiving a superposed signal comprising asynchronous signals from the downhole sensors, wherein a spreading sequence has been applied to data generated by each of the downhole sensors to form each of the asynchronous signals; sampling the received superposed signal; and processing the sampled superposed signal using decorrelation to determine the data from at least one of the downhole sensors before the spreading sequence was applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Torgeir ANDERSSEN TRØITE, DEAN TAYLOR LEHNER, STIAN LUNDLI, MICHAEL Walter JAHN
  • Publication number: 20130314241
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes various systems and methods for creating and presenting optimization visualizations that use normalized achievement variables. At least one illustrative method includes defining achievement functions that each operates on at least one of several achievement variables (each of the achievement variables representing a characteristic of a physical object or process), and transforming value ranges for at least two achievement variables into corresponding achievement level ranges by applying at least one of the achievement functions to the value ranges of the achievement variables (the achievement variables being a function of at least one common control variable). The method further includes combining the corresponding achievement level ranges to produce a combined achievement level range, and presenting a visual representation of the combined achievement level range to a user, enabling the user to select value ranges for the common control variable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale E. JAMISON, Robert L. WILLIAMS
  • Publication number: 20130307700
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for downhole information storage and transmission are disclosed herein. An example method disclosed herein includes losslessly compressing at least a portion of information received from a portion of a downhole tool disposed in a wellbore. The information is compressed via a processor disposed on the downhole tool and communicatively coupled to the portion of the downhole tool. The example method further includes transmitting at least a portion of the compressed information to a receiver disposed at or near a surface of Earth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Khaldon Hassan, Lionel Beneteau
  • Patent number: 8588192
    Abstract: A system and method for forming application dependent dynamic data packet format in a wireless sensor network is provided. The system comprises one or more sensor nodes, wherein each sensor node comprises one or more sensors for sensing physical events. Each sensor is defined as an active or an inactive sensor based upon the application requirement. The system also comprises one or more processing units for converting the physical events sensed by the active sensors to corresponding sensed data in digital format and forming dynamic length data packets comprising the sensed data and a sensor identifier field for conveying the identities of the active sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Infosys Limited
    Inventors: Kumar Padmanabh, Puneet Gupta, Sougata Sen
  • Publication number: 20130300568
    Abstract: According to one aspect, a digital display unit includes a microcontroller to process digital information received from one or more sensors, a display, and a switch in electrical communication with the microcontroller so that the microcontroller displays an output on the display that is specific to a type of sensor. The type of sensor may be selected from a position sensor, a pressure sensor, and a stroke counter. The digital display unit may be part of a choke control panel. The microcontroller and the display may be disposed in an enclosure, and an electrical power source may be disposed in the enclosure to supply electrical power to the microcontroller and the one or more sensors. A digital hydraulic choke position sensor assembly and a digital pressure sensor assembly are also described, one or both of which may be used in a system for drilling an oil or gas well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: John Mathena, Bill Bennett
  • Patent number: 8581740
    Abstract: A method for communicating a signal to an instrument in a wellbore includes axially accelerating the instrument in a preselected pattern of acceleration. The predetermined pattern corresponds to the signal to be communicated. The axial acceleration of the instrument is detected, and the signal is decoded from the detected axial acceleration. A signal detection system for an instrument in a wellbore includes an accelerometer oriented along a longitudinal axis of the instrument and means for comparing measurements made by the accelerometer to at least one predetermined pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Kelly W. Hagen, Kenneth R. Goodman, Dale W. Clinton, Feng Zhou
  • Patent number: 8581741
    Abstract: A method of enabling communication between components of a hydrocarbon extraction plant, the plant having an underwater hydrocarbon extraction installation including at least one hydrocarbon extraction well with an associated tree, comprises providing a plurality of RF communication means at respective components of the installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventors: Steven Lewis Charles Simpson, Peter John Davey
  • Patent number: 8577359
    Abstract: A system for autonomously monitoring and managing consumer device assets includes a plurality of consumer device assets registered with a remote computer server platform. The remote computer server platform is configured to execute software applications for monitoring and managing the consumer device assets. The consumer device assets communicate operational status information and consumer usage information to the remote computer server platform automatically as a result of pre-programmed conditions and/or instructions received from the remote computer server platform. The remote computer server platform monitors the consumer device assets by processing the operational status information and consumer usage information automatically according to preprogrammed conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: M2M Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Philip Bernard Wesby
  • Patent number: 8577358
    Abstract: A system for autonomously monitoring and managing consumer device assets includes a plurality of consumer device assets registered with a remote computer server platform. The remote computer server platform is configured to execute software applications for monitoring and managing the consumer device assets. The consumer device assets communicate operational status information and consumer usage information to the remote computer server platform automatically as a result of pre-programmed conditions and/or instructions received from the remote computer server platform. The remote computer server platform monitors the consumer device assets by processing the operational status information and consumer usage information automatically according to preprogrammed conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: M2M Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Philip Bernard Wesby
  • Patent number: 8555976
    Abstract: A rig control interface, system, and method. The rig control interface includes an emergency disconnect sequence button configured to initiate an emergency disconnect sequence signal to be sent to multiplex pods resulting in an emergency disconnect sequence including a plurality of functions being performed by devices in one or both of a lower marine riser package and a blowout preventer stack; and an emergency disconnect sequence timer display triggered by initiation of the emergency disconnect sequence signal, the emergency disconnect sequence timer display configured to indicate one or both of time elapsed after initiation of the emergency disconnect sequence signal and a status of the plurality of functions being performed by the devices in the one or both of the lower marine riser package and the blowout preventer stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Hydrill USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventor: Joseph Prem Ebenezer
  • Patent number: 8537027
    Abstract: In a method for controlling an electronic device (1) with a programmable component and an independent microcontroller (10) and in such an electronic device (1), by the microcontroller (10), the component is monitored, a malfunction of the component is identified and the component is reprogrammed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Endre Brekke, Vegard Horten, Vidar Steigen
  • Publication number: 20130234859
    Abstract: A method for transmission of data from a downhole sensor array. A continuous unidirectional data stream is sent from the downhole sensor array to two or more different types of data transmitters at the same time. One or more of the two or more different types of data transmitters is then activated to transmit the data from the downhole sensor array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: CATHEDRAL ENERGY SERVICES LTD.
    Inventors: Bogdan A. PICIOREANU, Randal H. PUSTANYK
  • Publication number: 20130229286
    Abstract: At least some of the illustrative embodiments are a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium including executable instructions that, when executed, cause one or more processors to receive drilling rig safety barrier data based on conditions of safety barriers in one or more drilling rigs. The one or more processors are further caused to identify, based on the drilling rig of safety barrier data, an impending invalidation of at least one of the safety barriers. The one or more processors are further caused to identify, based on the impending invalidation, one or more profiles for alert, and output, based on the one or more profiles, an alert of impending safety barrier invalidation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: LANDMARK GRAPHICS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Diego Sanchez
  • Patent number: 8517112
    Abstract: A technique operates a valve system in a subsea test tree via a control system of a type suitable for gaining desired industry ratings. A monitoring system is utilized to monitor functions of the control system, but the monitoring system is independent from the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew W. Niemeyer, Jeffrey J. Marabella
  • Patent number: 8517113
    Abstract: A technique that is usable with a subterranean well includes communicating a wireless stimulus in the well. The technique includes actuating a valve in response to the communication. The valve has more than one controllable open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Randolph J. Sheffield
  • Patent number: 8519865
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a downhole tool string component comprises a tubular body with at least one end adapted for threaded connection to an adjacent tool string component. The end comprises at least one shoulder adapted to abut an adjacent shoulder of an adjacent end of the adjacent tool string component. An annular magnetic coupler is disposed within an annular recess formed in the at least one shoulder, and the magnetic coupler comprises a coil in electrical communication with an electrical conductor that is in electrical communication with an electronic device secured to the tubular body. The coil comprises a plurality of windings of wire strands that are electrically isolated from one another and which are disposed in an annular trough of magnetic material secured within the annular recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Craig Boswell
  • Patent number: 8514098
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method to determine a clock signal when separate clocks are used. In one embodiment, a disciplined clock system comprising an update subsystem and a synthesis subsystem is provided. A first clock phase estimate is provided to the update subsystem and used, along with the update subsystem, to determine a frequency offset estimate and a phase offset estimate. The clock signal is determining using the frequency offset estimate, the phase offset estimate, and the synthesis subsystem. Alternatively, two clocks can be synchronized by generating a signal associated with a first clock; modulating the signal; transmitting the modulated signal; receiving the modulated signal by a receiver associated with a second clock; correlating the received signal; determining the time of arrival of the received signal; determining the time difference between the two clocks; and synchronizing the two clocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Montgomery, Julius Kusuma, Jean Seydoux, Desheng Zhang
  • Publication number: 20130206387
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a circuit to receive power and data over a communication medium, where the circuit is to separate the power and the data. An electronic switch couples the power output by the circuit to a downhole electrical component for use in a well. According to other implementations, an electro-hydraulic actuator includes an outer housing defining a first hydraulic chamber and a second hydraulic chamber, where a seal for one of the hydraulic chambers is achieved without use of an elastomeric seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Benoit Deville, Marian Faur, Charley Martinez
  • Publication number: 20130207814
    Abstract: Method and apparatus using at least one process to reduce a data set using a data adaptive down-sampling scheme comprising a plurality of non-uniform down-sampling factors. The method may include separating the data set into a plurality of data windows, where each of the plurality of data windows corresponds to one of the plurality of non-uniform data-sampling factors; applying the down-sampling factors, and transmitting the reduced data set from a downhole location to the surface. The data set may include an NMR echo train. The apparatus may include an NMR tool configured to acquire NMR data and at least one processor configured to perform the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Holger Tietjen, Mouin Hamdan
  • Patent number: 8504007
    Abstract: A system for autonomously monitoring and managing consumer device assets includes a plurality of consumer device assets registered with a remote computer server platform. The remote computer server platform is configured to execute software applications for monitoring and managing the consumer device assets. The consumer device assets communicate operational status information and consumer usage information to the remote computer server platform automatically as a result of pre-programmed conditions and/or instructions received from the remote computer server platform. The remote computer server platform monitors the consumer device assets by processing the operational status information and consumer usage information automatically according to preprogrammed conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: M2M Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Philip Bernard Wesby
  • Patent number: 8502696
    Abstract: A method of signal processing includes providing at least a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor spaced in a drilling system and using an algorithm to separate the downwardly propagating waves from the upwardly propagating waves. In one or more examples, an algorithm may include determining a velocity of pressure signals in a wellbore, time-shifting and stacking pressure signals from at least the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor to determine a downwardly propagating noise signal, and subtracting the downwardly propagating noise signal from at least the signal from the first pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Clark
  • Publication number: 20130192823
    Abstract: A method includes releasing a flow device into a wellbore to travel towards a target device that is positioned in the wellbore and that is actuated by the flow device, monitoring for communications transmitted by the flow device. The method further includes identifying a condition of the wellbore from the communications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Francis Barrilleaux, Gary Hurst
  • Publication number: 20130181843
    Abstract: A method for reducing interference in a received downhole telemetry signal includes: segmenting a received signal; windowing each signal segment; transforming each windowed signal segment into a complex variable domain to generate a plurality of complex variable domain segments with an in-phase component vector I and a quadrature component vector Q; calculating a real amplitude vector A from the I and the Q vectors; filtering interferers in the amplitude vector A for each complex variable domain segment to generate a filtered amplitude vector Ã; recalculating an amplitude of the amplitude vector A using the filtered amplitude vector à to generate an output amplitude vector Â; scaling the I and the Q vectors by a factor Â/A to generate an output in-phase component vector I? and an output quadrature component vector Q?; and transforming I? and Q? into the time domain to provide an interference-reduced output signal in the time domain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Sanam Moghaddamnia, Feng Zheng, Imed Ben Brahim, Wojciech Emmerich, Christian Hansen, Jens-Uwe Bruns
  • Publication number: 20130181844
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for monitoring the rotation of a member in a reciprocating rod lift system. In this manner, rod and tubing wear of the system may be minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Gregg W. Hurst, Jeffery J. Lembcke, Bryan A. Paulet
  • Publication number: 20130154844
    Abstract: A method for synchronizing a clock in a device at the Earth's surface with a device disposed in a wellbore includes generating a time datum for a signal generated at at least one of the surface and in the wellbore proximate an end of the pipe string. A time delay is determined between detection of the signal at the at least one repeater and retransmission of the signal from the at least one repeater. The time datum is appended with a signal corresponding to the time delay. The retransmitted signal is detected at the other of proximate the end of the pipe string and at the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: INTELLISERV, LLC
    Inventor: INTELLISERV, LLC
  • Patent number: 8467907
    Abstract: A self-contained valve actuator of the present invention can comprise an actuator component. This actuator can be linear or quarter turn depending on the valve. The actuator can be double acting which means the piston will move once to open and once to close. The self-contained valve system uses hydraulic fluid to operate the valve. The valve system is directly powered with electric power from a battery. Solar panels are also incorporated to capture solar energy and convert this energy into electrical energy. This converted electrical energy is stored in the battery which enables the battery to continuously supply energy while substantially reducing the possibility of exhausting battery power. This resupply of electrical energy and the use of the hydraulic fluid creates a self-contained valve actuation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Certus Process Solutions
    Inventor: Charles Hagler
  • Patent number: 8467268
    Abstract: A pressure release encoding system for communicating downhole information through a wellbore to a surface location include a downhole tool with a valve for providing a fluid restriction to fluid passing in the wellbore, a sensor positioned in the wellbore for sensing a downhole condition in the wellbore, a brake cooperative with the valve for moving the valve between at least two positions in timed relation to the downhole condition sensed by the sensor, and a detector positioned at the surface location for providing a measurement value at the surface location correlative to the time between the changes of the pressure of the fluid in the wellbore. The system associates position of the valve with pressure transduction. The sensor is an inclination sensor for sensing an angle of inclination of the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Welltronics Applications, LLC
    Inventor: David Close
  • Patent number: 8464946
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for tracking a plurality of marine riser assets is provided. Part of a riser lifecycle monitoring system, the apparatus can include an oil and gas riser spider to connect a plurality of riser pipe sections during assembly of a riser pipe string. The riser spider forms an annulus around a first section of the plurality of riser pipe sections and supports the first section of the plurality of riser pipe sections during connection to a second section. The apparatus can also include an antenna to read a plurality of radio frequency identification tags, e.g., directional 125 kHz RFID tags, attached to outsides of the plurality of riser pipe sections. The antenna can include an oblong loop attached to and substantially spanning about half of an internal surface of the riser spider so that the antenna follows the contour of the riser spider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Patricia Mackenzie, Judith Ann Guzzo, Lynn Ann DeRose, Brandon Stephen Good
  • Patent number: 8462012
    Abstract: Methods for drilling a new well in a field having a plurality of existing cased wells using magnetic ranging while drilling are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, a method of drilling a new well in a field having an existing cased well includes drilling the new well using a bottom hole assembly (BHA) having a drill collar having by an insulated gap, generating a current on the BHA while drilling the new well, such that some of the current passes through a surrounding formation and travels along a casing of the existing cased well, measuring from the BHA a magnetic field caused by the current traveling along the casing of the existing cased well, and adjusting a trajectory of the BHA to avoid a collision between the new well and the existing cased well based on measurements of the magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Oliver Clark, Wayne J. Phillips, Benny Poedjono
  • Patent number: 8457622
    Abstract: A remote asset management system comprising a network of programmable wireless modules, each having an antenna and an identification module and configured to communicate via a radio communication protocol. The system further includes a plurality of assets each linked to one of the wireless modules and configured to be managed by the linked wireless module. A remote system server service platform is configured to receive remote asset data from the wireless modules, pass the remote asset data to and from the wireless modules, send messages to at least one of the wireless modules, monitor the wireless modules by requesting and receiving current mode information, and remotely program the wireless modules. A data processing module located within the wireless module(s) and configured to process messages received by the wireless module, authenticate said message, analyze authenticated messages, and carry out asset management instructions included in the message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: M2M Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Philip Bernard Wesby
  • Patent number: 8451136
    Abstract: A sonde for installation in a well including a clamp (2) for engaging with the inner wall of a well casing (3) and securing device for securing the clamp to inner tubing of the well, whereby the securing device includes an attachment device (5, 6) for connection to the inner tubing and a rod (4) connected between the clamp and the attachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Steven Jaques, Robert Hughes Jones
  • Patent number: 8446291
    Abstract: Methods and systems for borehole telemetry utilizing a tool configured or designed for deployment in a borehole traversing a subterranean formation. The tool includes a downhole telemetry module; a surface telemetry module; and a datalink between the downhole and surface modules configured or designed for transferring data over two or more data communication channels, wherein the transferred data comprises coding at a transmitter to increase the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Nalin Weerasinghe
  • Patent number: 8437220
    Abstract: An acoustic telemetry isolation system and method for use with tubular assemblies such as drillpipe and production tubing includes an acoustic wave transmitter and an acoustic isolator. 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. Furthermore, 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. The construction of the isolator utilizes a specified combination of waves traveling in parallel in materials whose properties aid the beneficial combination of reflected and transmitted waves. The design of the isolator is to generally provide a bandstop filter function, thereby aiding the frequency isolation of an acoustic transmitter over a passband that may be constrained by the geometry of drill pipe or components of production tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Xact Downhold Telemetry, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, David D. Whalen, Douglas S. Drumheller
  • Publication number: 20130106614
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method to determine a clock signal when separate clocks are used. In one embodiment, a disciplined clock system comprising an update subsystem and a synthesis subsystem is provided. A first clock phase estimate is provided to the update subsystem and used, along with the update subsystem, to determine a frequency offset estimate and a phase offset estimate. The clock signal is determining using the frequency offset estimate, the phase offset estimate, and the synthesis subsystem. Alternatively, two clocks can be synchronized by generating a signal associated with a first clock; modulating the signal; transmitting the modulated signal; receiving the modulated signal by a receiver associated with a second clock; correlating the received signal; determining the time of arrival of the received signal; determining the time difference between the two clocks; and synchronizing the two clocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: MICHAEL MONTGOMERY, Julius Kusuma, Jean Seydoux, Desheng Zhang
  • Publication number: 20130099934
    Abstract: A well cellar high fluid level alarm includes a control box providing a water-tight enclosure and a alarm control circuitry disposed within the control box. An audible alarm indicator is operably connected to the alarm control circuitry. A visual alarm indicator is operably connected to the alarm control circuitry. A float switch is operably connected to the alarm control circuitry. An electrical power cable is operably connected to the control circuitry and provides electrical power thereto. A control switch is operably connected to the control circuitry and is operable to turn the control circuitry on and off. Operational indicator lamps are operably connected the control circuitry and operates to indicate an on or off state of the control circuitry. The control circuitry operates to operate the audible alarm indicator and the visual alarm indicator upon the float switch sensing a high fluid level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: Keldon Ehalt
  • Publication number: 20130076525
    Abstract: Systems and methods for remote monitoring of a wellsite operation may include receiving login information from a user and displaying a wellsite listing. The user may select at least one wellsite and may provide input regarding at least one parameter of interest for the at least one wellsite. A server may receive data regarding the at least one wellsite via a transceiver from a sensor disposed at a wellsite measuring the at least one parameter of interest. The data regarding the at least one parameter of interest may be transmitted as a dashboard after creation and rendering of teh dashboard at a server. The dashboard may be displayed via a wellsite information display module on a personal mobile device. The display of the at least one parameter of interest is customizable by the user or administrator of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: George Hoang Vu, Thomas Lee Hitt, Wilbert J. Chenevert, Brett Bibby
  • Patent number: 8400326
    Abstract: A telemetry system for use in developing a field of wells has a first downhole device capable of transmitting and/or receiving signals disposed in an appraisal well, an electronics control system located at or near the top of the appraisal, a cable disposed in the appraisal well that provides signal communication between the first downhole device and the electronics control system, and a second downhole device capable of transmitting and/or receiving signals disposed in a second wellbore. The signal is passed through the cable between the first downhole device and the electronics control system. From there, the signal may be re-transmitted to a desired location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel Codazzi
  • Publication number: 20130049981
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for displaying three-dimensional motion of a drill string in a borehole penetrating the earth to a user in real time. The apparatus includes: an accelerometer configured to measure acceleration in at least three directions; a strain sensor configured to measure strain or a bending moment at the drill string in two directions; a magnetometer and configured to measure an earth's magnetic field to determine rotational velocity of the drill string; a processor disposed at a surface of the earth and configured to receive the measurements from the accelerometer, the strain sensor, and the magnetometer and to process these measurements to estimate the three-dimensional motion of the drill string; a display configured to display the motion of the drill string to the user; and a high-speed telemetry system configured to transmit measurements from the accelerometer, the strain sensor, and the magnetometer to the processor in real time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John MacPherson, Michael King, Darin J. Warling, Hanno Reckmann
  • Patent number: 8378843
    Abstract: A telematics system in an asset network is provided. The telematics system includes one or more sensors configured to acquire data from multiple assets at different locations in the asset network. The telematics system also includes a transceiver configured to receive the data acquired from the one or more sensors. The telematics system further includes a data analysis system. The data analysis system includes a central data server configured to receive the data transmitted from the transceiver. The data analysis system also includes a processing circuitry configured to combine data, analyze combined data to detect trends, generate value added services based on the detected trends and distribute the value added services to multiple end users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Patricia Denise Mackenzie, John William Carbone, Charles Burton Theurer, Joseph James Salvo, Joseph Edward Jesson
  • Patent number: 8378840
    Abstract: A device for communicating with a downhole measurement tool includes a processor module comprising a set of commands and configured to issue a command from the set to the downhole tool and receive a corresponding reply from the downhole tool. The set of commands includes at least one of a command to switch the downhole measurement tool between a sleep mode and an active mode and a command to download data from the downhole measurement tool. The device includes a transceiver module coupled to the processor module and an antenna coupled to the transceiver module. The antenna and transceiver module are configured to transmit commands and replies between the processor module and the downhole measurement tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Alamzeb Hafeez Khan, Gregory Edward Leuenberger, Kevin William Clark, Colin Robert Kollker, Brett Herbert Stanes
  • Publication number: 20130038463
    Abstract: An interactive display of results obtained from the inversion of logging data is produced by obtaining and inverting the logging data using a Monte-Carlo inversion. An interactive plot having a percentile scale plotted against a location parameter is produced and a particular percentile is selected using the interactive plot. A cross-section plot for the particular percentile using the results of the Monte-Carlo inversion is produced. The particular percentile can be a curve representing a best-fit solution or a polyline representing selected solutions. Background color/shading can be displayed on the interactive plot to indicate user-defined constraints have been applied. Uncertain features can be plotted on a corresponding cross-section display using fading. Clusters of solutions that are substantially equally likely, given the measurements at a particular drill location, can be identified and plotted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Denis Heliot, Nicholas N. Bennett, Georgi Kutiev, Emmanuel Legandre, Roger Griffiths, Jean-Michel Denichou, Jean Seydoux, Qiming Li, Koji Ito
  • Publication number: 20130025939
    Abstract: During a drilling operation, measured data from the drilling operation may be received with a panistic inversion and risk estimate module. The panistic inversion and risk estimate module may generate a plurality of mathematical solutions from a panistic inversion that uses the measured data and one or more earth models. The one or more earth models having various parameters may be selected prior to drilling and/or while the drilling operation occurs. For each solution of the plurality of mathematical solutions generated from the panistic inversion, the panistic inversion and risk estimate module may determine if the measured data exceeds one or more probability risk thresholds associated with the drilling operation. If the measured data exceeds the probability risk threshold associated with the drilling operation, then the panistic inversion and risk estimate module may generate an alert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: DENIS HELIOT, Steven F. Crary, Jean Seydoux
  • Publication number: 20130021166
    Abstract: To produce a desired telemetry signal, the desired telemetry signal is first determined and then decomposed into two or more component signals. For each component signal, commands are sent to an individual modulator. The individual modulators each produce individual signals according to their received commands. The individual signals from each individual modulator are combined to produce the desired telemetry signal, or the individual signals from each individual modulator are allowed to combine to produce the desired telemetry signal. A telemetry system that produces such desired telemetry signals includes an uplink transmitter/receiver pair, a downlink transmitter/receiver pair, or both pairs, wherein each uplink transmitter and each downlink receiver is disposed in a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jagdish Shah, Julius Kusuma