Abstract: A method for actuating or installing downhole equipment in a wellbore employs non-acoustic signals (e.g., radio frequency signals) to locate, inventory, install, or actuate one downhole structure in relation to another downhole structure. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a first downhole structure that comprises a non-acoustic (e.g.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for directing data representing well operations (drilling and producing) through the Internet or similar wide area network. The instant invention comprises a system and method of installing sensors at the well to provide technical information to remotely-located Internet users who provide services to the well owner. The service providers may be observers, who may then advise the well owners and operators as to actions to take to increase or optimize well performance. Service providers may also be data storage companies, who clean and store the data from the well. Service providers may then be paid from a portion of the well revenues or a portion of the incrementally-increased revenues.

Abstract: A technique for monitoring operational parameters of networked components includes storing data within each component descriptive of the component. The data is polled by a monitoring station and provides a basis for monitor views compiled in real time. The monitor views provide a view of current levels of parameters controlled or monitored by each device, such as on virtual meters. Historical levels of operational parameters may be presented in virtual strip chart output. Textual descriptions of the components are provided, along with listings of key settings. More detailed data may be accessed by links between the monitor views and other user viewable representations for the system and the specific components.

Abstract: Systems and methods for downhole communication and measurement utilizing an improved metallic tubular having an elongated body with tubular walls and a central bore adapted to receive a run-in tool. The tubular including slotted stations to provide through-tubular signal transmission and/or reception. Hydraulic isolation between the interior and exterior of the tubular is provided by pressure barrier means at the slotted stations. Sensors and/or sources are mounted on the run-in tool, which is adapted for transmission through a drill string to engage within the tubular in alignment with the slotted stations. A run-in tool configuration includes a modulator for real-time wireless communication with the surface and/or remote downhole tools. A tubular and run-in tool configuration also includes inductive couplers for wireless signal data transfer. A method for measuring a formation characteristic utilizing a run-in tool adapted with an interchangeable end segment for multi-mode downhole transport.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a gas/oil well is provided with a monitoring unit, a relay unit and a host interface. A monitoring unit collects data regarding the status of the gas/oil well and wirelessly transmits that data to a relay unit. The relay unit, in turn, connects to a host interface using cellular communications and transmits the data. The monitoring unit can transmit information on demand or after an alarm condition is sensed. In either case, the monitoring unit is normally in a sleep mode. The relay unit can request information from the monitoring unit or respond to a wake up transmission sent to it from either the host interface or monitoring unit. The host interface receives data from the relay unit and then informs an end user of that data.

Abstract: A system for monitoring air pressure in a telecommunications network comprises a plurality of monitoring units, at least one device server, a computer network, and a terminal. Each monitoring unit is connected to a device server. A user at the terminal receives air pressure data from the monitoring units over the computer network.

Abstract: For example, if multiple pieces of information arrive at and/or are generated in a vehicle at the same time, MMS optimizes selection of information to be communicated, selection of information communicating means, selection of information communication style and selection of various parameters such as communication timing, according to priority order given integrally to the multiple pieces of information, so as to communicate the multiple pieces of information to a vehicle driver effectively. Further, it communicates information effectively using appropriate resources corresponding to a parameter selected by this optimization.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for remotely analyzing and affirmatively notifying appropriate personnel of problems and events associated with an oil recovery system—comprising hundreds of oil rigs over a vast geographic area. The results of selected Health Checks, which are run on each oilrig, are reported to a central server. The central server populates a data base for the oil recovery system, displays a red/yellow/green color coded electronic notification and status for an entire oil recovery system and affirmatively alerts appropriate personnel of actions required to address events associated with an oilrig in an oil recovery system. The diagnostics run at each oilrig are configurable at the individual rig. The present invention provides a dynamic oilrig status reporting protocol that enables population and display of a tree node structure representing an entire oil recovery system status on a single screen at a top level.

Abstract: Method and system for subsurface logging utilizing a modified tubular having an elongated body with tubular walls and a central bore adapted to receive a support member. The tubular including slotted stations to provide through-tubular signal passage. Pressure barrier means provide hydraulic isolation at the slotted stations. The support member is equipped with sources or sensors and adapted for engagement within the tubular. The tubular and support member are implemented in combination with retrievable and re-seatable MWD apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus used in a motor vehicle that provides load prioritization, load shedding, start sequencing and support of ultra or super capacitors when coupled to the motor vehicle's electrical power source and distribution network. The apparatus includes circuit Breakers, Solid State Relays, Controller Area Network (CAN) physical, transport and logical interface which enables the apparatus to connect or interface with power sources and to the vehicle's multiplex bus. The apparatus also includes decision, threshold detection and operational awareness logical software functions that enable it to prioritize power between the vehicles electrical components and interrogative/processing software functions that enable the apparatus to diagnosis abnormalities and communication status information to the vehicle operator.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting data downhole in a well bore, even during drilling operations, are disclosed. The apparatus generally comprises an antenna and some associated electronic circuitry. The antenna includes a plurality of arrayed transceiver elements and the electronic circuitry steers transmission or reception through the antenna by controlling the application of power to the array elements. In operation, a transceiver unit containing such an antenna is positioned proximate a remote sensor placed into a formation. An electromagnetic signal is then steered to communicate with the remote sensor over a wireless link.

Abstract: A technique for monitoring operational parameters of networked components includes storing data within each component descriptive of the component. The data is polled by a monitoring station and provides a basis for monitor views compiled in real time. The monitor views provide a view of current levels of parameters controlled or monitored by each device, such as on virtual meters. Historical levels of operational parameters may be presented in virtual strip chart output. Textual descriptions of the components are provided, along with listings of key settings. More detailed data may be accessed by links between the monitor views and other user viewable representations for the system and the specific components.

Abstract: A system for use in a well having completion zones includes a surface node and a plurality of downhole nodes positioned in the completion zones. A communications link extends into the well and is coupled to the surface node and downhole nodes. The communications link includes channels coupling successive nodes, and the surface node and downhole nodes are coupled in a loop by the channels.

Abstract: Using micro-resistivity techniques, an image of the wall of a borehole can be obtained. A downhole tool stack is provided with plural imaging tools, wherein each imaging tool has a set of pads that deploy radially outward to contact the borehole wall to obtain the image thereof. As the pads deploy outwardly, gaps are formed between the pads. The pads of one tool are circumferentially offset relative to the pads of the other tool so that more complete circumferential coverage of the borehole wall is obtained during the imaging process. Furthermore, an adaptive polling technique is utilized to telemeter the large amounts of data generated by the two imaging tools to the surface. Data is obtained from the imaging tools by polling at a particular rate, which rate is modified depending upon the amount of data generated by the imaging tools.

Abstract: A vehicle tracking unit may include a user indicator, a vehicle position determining device, a wireless communications device, and a controller. The controller is preferably switchable between an unregistered mode and a registered mode. In the registered mode, the controller may cooperate with the wireless communications device and the vehicle position determining device to determine and send vehicle position information to the monitoring station. In the unregistered mode, the controller may activate the user indicator to encourage registration by the user. The controller may be switchable to the registered mode based upon an activation message from the monitoring station, and, conversely, the controller may be switchable to the unregistered mode based upon a deactivation message from the monitoring station. The user indicator may also be activated based upon a warning message from the monitoring station indicating that the user's registration is about to expire.

Abstract: A sensor head component is configurable as an accessory for performing various functions on other sensor head components interconnected in a sensor head of a monitoring tool assembly. Certain sensor head components may benefit from the performance of such functions as removable of debris from particular surfaces as well as calibration processes. To perform these functions, an accessory is configurable to include a body portion with a motor positioned therein. Connectable to the motor may be an accessory arm which includes at least one element connected thereto for performing the particular function. When activated, the motor manipulates the accessory arm such that the element moves within a target area and performs the particular function upon at least one of the sensor head components.

Abstract: A downhole string includes a system having an actuator module that is responsive to electrical power and signals communicated down a cable, such as a permanent downhole cable (PDC). In addition, a backup mechanism, such as an inductive coupler mechanism or another type of wireless apparatus, can be used as a backup to restore power and communications with the downhole system. For example, if the cable fails for some reason, power and signals can still be communicated with the inductive coupler mechanism or other wireless mechanism to control operation of the system or to receive signals from the system.

Abstract: An information gathering system for remotely monitoring and diagnosing the condition of equipment includes at least one sensor, electronic controller, electronic module and data processor unit. The electronic controller is connected to monitored equipment and operable to sense and electronically store an indication of the equipment condition. The electronic module is removably connectible with the electronic controller and operable to electronically record the indication of equipment condition, removably connectible with a telephone outlet and capable of sensing connection therewith, and preprogrammed to dial the telephone number of a data processor unit at a remote service provider location. The data processor unit responds to the dialed telephone number, downloads the electronic indication, analyzes it and outputs a recommended course of action.

Abstract: In a network system having a network diagnostic facility, a plurality of control units are provided, each one of the control units being connected to a common communication line via its corresponding branch line to enable a mutual communication with the other control unit; and a normal state checking facility responsive to a diagnostic command signal from a network diagnostic device to transmit an interrogation signal from any one of the control units to all of the other control units which are connected to the common communication line and to output respective results of receiving acknowledgement signals from the all of the other control units within respective constant periods of time in response to the interrogation signal transmitted from the one of the control units to the diagnostic device, the health state checking facility being installed on each of the control units.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for reducing noise in a measured telemetry signal. The method includes tracking a characteristic of at least one harmonic of a noise component in the measured telemetry signal band. The at least one harmonic has a frequency outside a telemetry signal band. The characteristic of the noise component is determined for at least one other harmonic thereof. The at least one other harmonic has a frequency inside the telemetry signal band. A noise reference is generated from the characteristic of the in band harmonic, and the noise reference is combined with the measured telemetry signal to generate a noise-canceled telemetry signal.

Abstract: A system for monitoring air pressure in a telecommunications network comprises a plurality of monitoring units, at least one device server, a computer network, and a terminal. Each monitoring unit is connected to a device server. A user at the terminal receives air pressure data from the monitoring units over the computer network.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting an object approaching a vessel at rest on a water surface include a laser light curtain comprising at least one pulsed laser light beam extending radially from the ship toward a perimeter thereabout, the laser light curtain positioned spaced apart from and approximately parallel to an approach surface for detecting an object interrupting the light curtain; at least one pulsed laser rangefinder connected to the ship and positioned outboard therefrom to generate the laser light curtain; a power source connected to the pulsed laser rangefinder to supply power thereto; a processor connected to the pulsed laser rangefinder to process data therefrom; and at least one display connected to the processor to display information obtained from the processed data.

Abstract: A drill string is equipped with a down hole sub assembly which contains sensors to detect equipment condition during drilling. The sub assembly has no electrical communication with the drill bit itself, and the sensors detect drill bit condition from vibrations or strain or other detectable phenomena. Sensors in the bit itself are not needed.

Abstract: Techniques and approaches that enable wireless communication devices, namely, wearable devices, to assist users in new ways by interacting with other devices or surroundings to notify users of things that would be of interest to users. In one aspect of the invention, wearable devices display information for users in response to surrounding signals. The surrounding signals can come from a nearby wireless transceiver that may be included in another wearable device, a terminal device or an isolated device provided in a setting. In another aspect of the invention, wireless communication or computing devices (e.g., wearable devices) can interact and perform social filtering. The users of the devices can then be suitably notified.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tool assembly for use in field applications to monitor at least one condition in a well or other hole. The tool assembly may include a computing unit for directing operation of the tool assembly and may be sized to be operable in a hole having a diameter of 1 inch, and in some cases even smaller. In one aspect, the tool assembly is designed to significantly conserve power. Sensor readings may be taken at different schedules to conserve power when frequent readings are not required. Also, internal electronics of the tool assembly can be operated at a low voltage. In one aspect, the tool assembly is assemblable by simple rotatable engagement of the components, with electrical interconnections being made automatically by the rotatable engagement without keying of components. In another aspect, the tool assembly is networkable with other like tool assemblies and monitorable from a central location.

Abstract: A dynamic aircraft maintenance production system for planning a maintenance check of an aircraft includes means for obtaining any routine tasks that may exist and which are required to be performed on the aircraft, means for obtaining any non-routine tasks that may exist and which are required to be performed on the aircraft, means for generating a maintenance flow chart detailing scheduling data for each of the routine and non-routine tasks, means for assigning a user-determined number of the routine and non-routine tasks to personnel for completion, means for maintenance activity data on each assigned routine task and non-routine task, means for available resource data, and means for updating the maintenance flow chart to reflect newly-obtained maintenance activity data and available resource data.

Abstract: A downhole telemetry system having discrete multi-tone modulation and dynamic bandwidth allocation is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the downhole telemetry system comprises a surface transceiver, a cable, and a downhole transceiver coupled to the surface transceiver via the cable. The downhole transceiver communicates to the surface transceiver using discrete multi-tone (DMT) modulation to transmit telemetry information over a set of frequency subchannels allocated for uplink communications. The surface transceiver may likewise communicate to the downhole transceiver using DMT modulation to transmit information over a set of frequency subchannels allocated for downlink communications. The number of uplink and downlink communications subchannels is preferably variable and preferably can be changed depending on the operating mode of the system.

Abstract: A compression scheme for reducing the amount of data that must be transmitted uplink from a formation test while drilling apparatus. Periodic samples are taken within the formation test apparatus and prior to transmitting data uplink, the samples are analyzed to generate curve fit parameters that define a curve that most closely fits the sampled data. A minimal set a data points, time variables, and curve fit parameters are transmitted to the surface where the transmitted data is used to reconstruct the formation pressure test curve. A quality of fit value is also transmitted with the minimal data set as an indication of the quality of the fit between the reconstructed data and the actually sampled data points.

Abstract: In order to ensure that at least some of the tools (12-1) to 12-4) in a string of tools that is permanently installed in an oil well (10) are kept in operation even in the event of a localized fault, the link (18) interconnecting the tools and a surface installation (16) is subdivided into segments by switch members (20). More precisely, a switch member is associated with each tool. In addition, the link (18) forms a loop with both ends thereof being connected to the surface installation (16).

Abstract: An acoustic telemetry system for use in a borehole achieves both bi-directional and multi-hop communications without need for a wireline. Each step in the communications link comprises a processor and transceiver, which communicate with adjacent transceivers to achieve self-optimization. During operation, if communications deteriorate, each pair of transceivers can re-initiate optimization and attempt to reset parameters to achieve improved communications. Similarly, the system can also re-calibrate periodically to assure that optimal conditions are maintained.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for enabling an operator to dynamically manage maintenance of a member of a fleet. The system includes a program manager system, a tracking manager system and a production manager system. The program manager system is for extracting maintenance tasks from maintenance publications, and for guiding the formation of maintenance tasks groups. The tracking manager system is for monitoring accumulated usage data of the member of the fleet, and for identifying maintenance due tasks and maintenance due task groups from the respective maintenance tasks and maintenance task groups for which a difference between the control point and the accumulated usage data is less than a user-defined critical value. The production manager system is for generating and implementing a dynamic maintenance flow chart which details scheduling data for each individual task of the maintenance due tasks and maintenance due task groups.

Abstract: Systems and methods for downhole communication and measurement utilizing an improved metallic tubular having an elongated body with tubular walls and a central bore adapted to receive a run-in tool. The tubular including slotted stations to provide through-tubular signal transmission and/or reception. Hydraulic isolation between the interior and exterior of the tubular is provided by pressure barrier means at the slotted stations. Sensors and/or sources are mounted on the run-in tool, which is adapted for transmission through a drill string to engage within the tubular in alignment with the slotted stations. A run-in tool configuration includes a modulator for real-time wireless communication with the surface and/or remote downhole tools. A tubular and run-in tool configuration also includes inductive couplers for wireless signal data transfer. A method for measuring a formation characteristic utilizing a run-in tool adapted with an interchangeable end segment for multi-mode downhole transport.

Abstract: A wireless communication system for use in well, subsea, and oilfield-related environments employs one or more wireless network devices that offer short-range wireless communication between devices without the need for a central network which may have a device using a BLUETOOTH protocol. The system may be used for telemetry, depth correlation, guidance systems, actuating tools, among other uses. 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. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A maintenance tracking system for tracking maintenance required on a member of a fleet includes means for tracking accumulated usage data, means for receiving a list of routine tasks required to be performed, means for tracking task accomplishment data for each routine task, means for determining a maintenance due point for each routine task, means for identifying maintenance due tasks as those routine tasks for which a difference between the maintenance due point of the routine task and the accumulated usage data of the aircraft is less than a user-defined critical value, and means for reporting maintenance due tasks.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system for automatically recognizing motions and actions of moving objects such as humans, animals and machines. Measuring instruments are attached to an object under observation to measure a status change entailing the object's motion or action and to issue a signal denoting the measurements. A characteristic quantity extraction unit extracts a characteristic quantity from the measurement signal received which represents the motion or action currently performed by the object under observation. A signal processing unit for motion/action recognition correlates the extracted characteristic quantity with reference data in a database containing previously acquired characteristic quantities of motions and actions. The motion or action represented by the characteristic quantity with the highest degree of correlation is recognized and output.

Abstract: A conventional thru tubing bridge plug is rendered in a more effective and useful downhole tool by incorporating a sensor module complete with preferably a plurality of downhole sensors to monitor downhole parameters such as but not limited to temperature and pressure both within the inflatable tool and in the annulus of the well created thereby.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for controlling oilfield production to improve efficiency includes a remote sensing unit that is placed within a subsurface formation, an antenna structure for transmitting power and communicating signals to the remote sensing unit and for receiving communication signals from the remote sensor, a casing joint having nonconductive “windows” for allowing an internally located antenna to communicate with the remote sensing unit for those embodiments in which a wireline tool is being used to communicate with remote sensing unit, and a system for obtaining subsurface formation data and for producing the formation data to a central location for subsequent analysis. The remote sensing unit is a standalone sensor that is placed sufficiently far from the wellbore to reduce or eliminate effects that the wellbore might have on formation data samples taken by the remote sensing unit.

Abstract: A vehicle tracking unit may include a user registration reminder indicator, a vehicle position determining device, a wireless communications device, and a controller. The controller is preferably switchable from an unregistered mode to a registered mode. In the registered mode, the controller may cooperate with the wireless communications device and the vehicle position determining device to determine and send vehicle position information to the monitoring station. In the unregistered mode, the controller may activate the user registration reminder indicator to encourage registration by the user. The controller may be switchable to the registered mode based upon an activation message from the monitoring station.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for wireless and cableless communication between a control station and a remote unit downhole uses the tubular of the well as a waveguide. The downhole portion includes a receiver, a programmable logic interface and means responsive to receipt of a control signal for initiating an action, such as detonation of at least one explosive charge.

Abstract: The event-driven subject monitoring system and method generally include a host unit and a mobile communication unit. These two units communicate via a communication network and are designed to conserve resources at least by operating an event-driven monitoring mobile communication unit.

Abstract: There is provided a data acquisition apparatus for use in a wellbore, having a receiver attached to an elongate electrical connector for conveying signals from downhole to surface, and a plurality of sensing devices adapted to be positioned downhole in spaced apart positions remote from the receiver, so as to form an array of sensing devices. The receiver includes a transmitter so as to allow two-way travel of signals within the wellbore. The invention is particularly of use when acquiring data in near-horizontal wells, or horizontal wells. Data acquired by one sensing device is transmitted to a receiver on a neighboring sensing device for transmittal from the neighboring sensing device to a next neighbour in the array. Data signals are thus relayed along the array of sensing devices until the last sensing device in the array transmits all acquired data to the receiver. The spacing between the individual sensing devices is regular and ranges from 3 meters to 100 meters.

Abstract: A process for diagnosing the proper operation of direction indicator lights of a motor vehicle includes the steps of temporally and alternately shifting the end of illumination of the right and left change of direction indicator lamps of the vehicle, measuring the current passing through a power circuit of the direction indicator lamps during the temporal shift, comparing the measured value with a reference value, and deducing therefrom whether at least one of the lamps is inoperative and in this case informing the driver thereof. A device for diagnosing the proper operation of the direction indicator lights of a motor vehicle is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hollow drilling rod for transmitting information, said rod being for placing in a borehole filled with drilling mud.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor and evaluation system for capturing data at a measuring station (3), in particular for use in double sensors for determining end positions and limit values. The individual sensors (1, 1′, 2, 2′, 16, 16′) are operated as sensor pairs (1″, 2″, 16″) by a largely shared control circuit consisting of two connecting lines (5, 6) with an electric current or voltage of alternate polarity. A state of a sensor (1, 1′, 2, 2′, 16, 16′) is transmitted on the corresponding half-wave of the sensor current and evaluated by a switching amplifier (13) in relation to polarity and amplitude. Said sensor and evaluation system reduces the number of connecting lines required. In addition, interference from neighboring sensors is largely excluded, so that sensors can be mounted more closely together in a system. Said sensor and evaluation system is especially suited for equipment required to comply with the DIN 19234 (NAMUR) standard.

Abstract: A casing sensor and methods for sensing using a casing sensor are disclosed. The casing sensor includes a casing shoe and a sensor coupled to the casing shoe. A casing data relay includes a downhole receiver coupled to a well casing and a transmitter coupled to the receiver. The casing sensor may be coupled to the transmitter. A drill string actuator may be controllable through the downhole receiver.

Abstract: A method and related system for detecting mud pulse telemetry by measuring pressure fluctuations in drilling fluid by measuring mud pressure pulses at two locations. A first location is somewhat downstream of the mud pump and desurger and a second location is proximate to the mud pump and desurger. Given these two pressure signals they are subtracted to create a difference signal where the presence or absence of mud pressure pulses is determined by pressure spikes caused by the interaction of mud pressure pulses. A second method measures the mud pressure pulse at only one location.

Abstract: To avoid an uncontrolled flight of a remotely controlled unmanned air vehicle (UAV), upon loss of radio contact between a control station (6) and the UAV (1), the UAV (1) flies on a preprogrammed safety route (3), as required the UAV is guided to a flight path (2) that is remote-controlled from the control station (6), and, in the event of an interruption of the radio contact, the UAV will fly on a substitute route calculated with on-board equipment, without active intervention from the remote control station.

Abstract: A monitoring system determines characteristics of a fluid in a well. The system comprises a well module adapted to be disposed in a well, where the module comprises a probe and at least one sensor that senses characteristics of the fluid. The well module is capable of transmitting information concerning fluid characteristics. The system further comprises a data collection center, which is capable of receiving well information from the well module and generating information concerning characteristics of the fluid, a monitoring site, and a communication link that enables a user at the monitoring site to obtain information such as, but not limited to, real-time, historical, and a combination of real-time and historical concerning the characteristics.

Abstract: A method for use with equipment located downhole in a subterranean well includes providing a model describing behavior of the equipment and measuring a state of the equipment downhole. An indication is received of the state at a surface of the well, and the model is modified based on the indication. The system includes a communication link, a circuit and a machine. The communication link is adapted to furnish an indication of a state of the equipment to the surface of the well. The circuit is located downhole and is adapted to detect the state and produce the indication. The machine is adapted to provide a model describing behavior of the equipment and modify the model based on the indication.

Abstract: The present invention provides a subsurface instrument and a system for the collection and transmission of deep ocean data utilizing standard buoy mooring lines. The system includes a moored surface buoy and a submerged data collection instrument both inductively coupled to the buoy cable. The instrument has a transducer responsive to the characteristics of seawater. A slave modem is interconnected to the transducer through an A/D converter allowing analog transducer signals to be converted to standard telephone modem signals. The modem signals are inductively coupled into the mooring cable and received by a master modem located in the buoy. The buoy may contain a satellite transceiver allowing transmission of the signals to a remote location. The subsurface instrument is battery powered and battery life is extended by powering down when the instrument is not in use.