Drill String Or Tubing Support Signal Conduction Patents (Class 340/854.4)
  • Patent number: 8416098
    Abstract: Acoustic communication apparatus for use with downhole tools are described. An example acoustic communication apparatus for use in a wellbore includes a first acoustic transducer to generate first acoustic signals. The first acoustic transducer is mounted in an interior of a first drill collar to transmit the first acoustic signals via at least a portion of a body of a drillstring or a mud channel within the drillstring to a second drill collar. Additionally, the example acoustic communication apparatus includes a first receiver mounted to the first drill collar to receive second acoustic signals transmitted from the second drill collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Fernando Garcia-Osuna, Miguel Pabon
  • Publication number: 20130076527
    Abstract: A mud pulse telemetry tool is used in a drill string that has a drilling fluid flowing inside. The mud pulse telemetry tool may include a pulser disposed in the drill string and a drive system for driving the pulser. The pulser may include a non-rotating mud pulse stator and a mud pulse rotor disposed proximate to the stator. The drive system may include a turbine stator, a turbine rotor, and a rotatable inertial member magnetically coupled to the turbine rotor. The inertial member may be operatively connected at a first end to the mud pulse rotor. In the mud pulse telemetry tool, rotational energy may be transmitted from the turbine rotor to the rotatable inertial member by a magnetic coupling. The rotatable inertial member may be operatively connected to a supplemental motor that is adapted to supplement rotational energy imparted to the rotatable inertial member by the drive system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Mark A. Sitka, Kristopher Sherrill, Daniel Winslow
  • Publication number: 20130061899
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method provides electrical power in a subterranean well. A radioisotope thermoelectric generator may be positioned and installed in a downhole location in a wellbore. The location of the radioisotope thermoelectric generator may be within a completion string. A radioisotope thermoelectric generator comprises a core having a radioisotope for producing heat, and a thermocouple. The thermocouple comprises at least two different metals, and is positioned adjacent to the core. The radioisotope thermoelectric generator flows heat from the core to the thermocouple to produce electricity that may be stored in an energy storage device, or used to power a component. The produced electrical power may be employed to activate downhole sensors, valves, or wireless transmitters associated with the operation and production of an oil or gas well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Luis Phillipe Tosi, Krystian K. Maskos, Scott Wagstaff
  • Publication number: 20130063276
    Abstract: A data logging sub is mounted at the downhole end of a drill string, and a receiver, or detector is mounted at the top of the drill string at the well-head. The downhole logging sub includes a digital signal transmitter that is operatively connected to the drill string, such that it can send a series of charge pulses along the drill string. The receiver is mounted to detect changes in electrical charge on the drill string. The drill string leaks charge to the surrounding geological formation, but the time constant of the leakage is large compared to the quantity of charge of the charge pulses, and the low resistance of the drill string as compared to the resistivity of the surrounding formation. The leakage is high enough that the charge leaks off the drill string fast enough to permit a useful baud rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Mariusz Thomas ZIENTARSKI
  • Publication number: 20130049983
    Abstract: A method for a hydraulic model for subterranean drilling fluids includes acquiring first and second axially spaced temperature and pressure measurements in the wellbore. The pressure measurements may be processed to obtain an interval density of drilling fluid between the measurement locations. A tool string including a large number of axially spaced pressure sensors (e.g., four or more or even six or more) electronically coupled with a surface processor via wired drill pipe may be used to obtain a plurality of interval densities corresponding to various wellbore intervals. The interval density(ies) may be processed in combination with the temperature and pressure measurements to compute one or more unknown coefficients of the hydraulic model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: John Rasmus, John James, Paul Bolchover
  • Publication number: 20130038464
    Abstract: A system for transmitting data along a borehole, comprises a drill string; a bottom hole assembly connected to the drill string including a drilling motor powered by flow of fluid from the drill string, a drill bit connected below the drilling motor and arranged to be rotated by the motor, and at least one sensor being positioned between the drilling motor and the drill bit; a first telemetry system for transmitting data from a first location below the drilling motor to a second location above the drilling motor, the first telemetry system comprising a first transmitter at the first location configured to induce an acoustic signal for propagation along the BHA, and a first acoustic receiver at the second location arranged to receive the acoustic signal; and a second telemetry system comprising two or more transmission channels for transmitting data received by the first acoustic receiver from the second location back up the borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Laurent Alteirac, Erwann Lemenager
  • Publication number: 20130027216
    Abstract: A communication system for transmitting information via drilling rod linkages includes a drill drive, drilling rod linkages comprising a first drilling rod linkage and at least one second drilling rod linkage. The first drilling rod linkage comprises an electrical line, an upper end and a lower end which comprises a receptacle for a drill head. The second drilling rod linkage comprises at least one electrical line, an upper end and a lower end. A sensor and/or actuator is arranged at the lower end of the first drilling rod linkage and at the drill head and transmits data. A first communication unit and an electronics unit are arranged at a drive end. A further communication unit is arranged at the upper end of the first drilling rod linkage and at the upper and lower ends of the second drilling rod linkage. The first communication unit and the further communication units are radio modules which transmit/receive data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: UNIVERSITAET SIEGEN
    Inventors: Peter Jantz, Klaus Hartmann, Wolf-Henning Twelsiek
  • Patent number: 8344905
    Abstract: An expandable tubular sleeve having utility for lining a downhole tubular member includes a tubular body having a portion that is predisposed to initiate expansion thereof under the application of internal fluid pressure. The predisposed portion of the body may be a plastically-deformed portion formed, e.g., by application of mechanical force to a wall of the body. The predisposed portion of the body may be defined by a portion of the body having reduced wall thickness. The reduced wall thickness may be achieved, e.g., by reinforcing the wall thickness everywhere except the predisposed portion. The predisposed portion of the body may be formed by modifying the material properties of the body, e.g., by localized heat treatment. The sleeve and related apparatuses and methods are useful for securing and protecting a cable having one or more insulated conductive wires for transmission of signals between locations downhole and at the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Intelliserv, LLC
    Inventors: Raghu Madhavan, Bruce W. Boyle, Brian Clark
  • Patent number: 8339276
    Abstract: Apparatus and systems, as well as methods, operate to acquire downhole data associated with a borehole casing, process a portion of the downhole data at a downhole location to provide processed data, and regulate surface motor power received at a motor downhole. The surface motor power is filtered and the processed data is transmitted to a surface location on a monoconductor that also carries the surface motor power. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Batakrishna Mandal, Clovis Bonavides, Carl Dodge, Syed Ali, Alberto Quintero
  • Patent number: 8330615
    Abstract: An electric system for measurement and control in an oil/gas well using transmission of electric signals and supply of electric power. The system is provided with a current loop having an essentially constant current in a current loop and a number of downhole network nodes (1N) which are connected to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Roxar Flow Measurement AS
    Inventor: Trond Hagen
  • Patent number: 8305229
    Abstract: A wireless communication and drill string telemetry system. The communication system is used for communicating information along a drill string between a boring tool and a boring machine. An insulator assembly provides an electrically insulated gap between the drill string communication path and a soil engaging electrode for the electrical return path. A transmitter assembly includes a data transmitter for encoding and transmitting a data signal. A signal coupler couples the data signal to the drill string and provides a controlled electrical connection between the drill string communication path and the soil engaging electrode. The signal coupler comprises a transformer and a current regulating circuit to adjust a voltage across the transformer's primary winding. A receiver assembly is disposed proximate the drilling machine and includes a toroidal pickup coil and a signal processing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael F. Gard
  • Publication number: 20120256759
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for providing electromagnetic (EM) measurement-while-drilling (MWD) telemetry capabilities using an existing mud-pulse MWD tool. An EM tool intercepts the output from the mud-pulse tool and generates an EM signal that mimics a mud-pulse pressure signal. The EM signal is intercepted at the surface by a receiver module that conditions the signal and inputs the signal into the existing pulse tool receiver. Since the EM signal mimics a mud-pulse signal, the pulse tool receiver does not require software or hardware modifications in order to process an EM telemetry mode. The EM tool can be adapted to also provide dual telemetry by incorporating a conventional pressure pulser that would normally be used with the pulse tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: Mostar Directional Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: John Petrovic, Victor Petrovic, Matthew R. White, Neal P. Beaulac
  • Patent number: 8284075
    Abstract: A measurement and communication system for use with a tubular string, comprises a tubular string having a plurality of self-powered, autonomous telemetry stations disposed at predetermined locations along the tubular string. Each autonomous telemetry station is adapted to receive at least one first signal and transmit at least one second signal related to the at least one first signal. Power is extracted from potential energy sources proximate each autonomous telemetry station. A method of communicating information along a tubular string comprises, disposing an autonomous telemetry station at predetermined locations along the tubular string. A preferred transmission path is autonomously determined at each of the autonomous telemetry stations. Information is transmitted along the tubular string according to the autonomously determined preferred path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Roger Fincher, Peter Aronstam, Larry Watkins, Randy Gold
  • Patent number: 8278930
    Abstract: Structure for deep MWD resistivity measurements suitable for both geo-steering and measurements ahead of the drill bit is disclosed. Alternating current is transmitted through a loop and an induction signal is measured by a two-coil bucking receiving system placed at some distance from the transmitter. To further reduce a parasitic effect of the currents in the pipe, a conductive copper shield wrapping around the pipe is used. The length of the shield is about one and one-half to two times longer than the longest transmitter/receiver spacing of the structure. The transmitter/receiver system is located in the center of the described electromagnetic shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Gregory B. Itskovich
  • Patent number: 8270251
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas S. Drumheller, Paul L. Camwell, Anthony R. Dopf, Derek W. Logan
  • Patent number: 8258976
    Abstract: The present invention concerns application of a unique conductive electrode geometry used to form an efficient wideband, one- or two-way wireless data link between autonomous systems separated by some distance along a bore hole drill string. One objective is the establishment of an efficient, high bandwidth communication link between such separated systems, using a unique electrode configuration that also aids in maintaining a physically robust drill string. Insulated or floating electrodes of various selected geometries provide a means for sustaining or maintaining a modulated electric potential adapted for injecting modulated electrical current into the surrounding sub-surface medium. Such modulated current conveys information to the systems located along the drill string by establishing a potential across a receiving insulated or floating electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Scientific Drilling International, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Price, Donald H. Van Steenwyk, Harold T Buscher
  • Patent number: 8242929
    Abstract: A communication module for transfer of information along a drill string has at least one antenna coil, wherein the communication module is configured such that a central coil axis of the antenna coil is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a drill pipe to which it is affixed. Signals are relayed magnetically from node to node to exchange data along any desired length of drill string. The drill string itself forms a portion of the magnetic flux path and the earth and/or surrounding media forms another substantial portion of the closed flux path. Magnetic induction is advantageous because the steel drill pipe is ferromagnetic and exhibits a magnetic permeability of a few hundred to a few thousand times that of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Theodore J. Vornbrock
  • Patent number: 8242928
    Abstract: A downhole signal transmission system provides electric radiofrequency signals that are coupled to electrically conductive or non-conductive fluids through electrical insulators. A plurality of signal repeaters are tuned to the frequencies of the radiofrequency signals, and a plurality of transmission lines terminated by resonance circuits are also provided such that the terminating resonance circuits resonate on the frequencies of the electric radiofrequency signals. The plurality of signal repeaters and plurality of transmission elements are arranged to be redundant such that a failure of one or more of the signal repeaters or a failure of one or more of the transmission elements does not substantially affect the operation of the data transmission system. The signal repeaters and transmission elements also are arranged such that a failure of any of the signal repeaters or a failure of any of the transmission elements is communicated to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Martin Scientific LLC
    Inventor: Manfred G. Prammer
  • Patent number: 8179278
    Abstract: A downhole communication device comprises a first energy harvesting device; a downhole transceiver in communication with the first energy harvesting device; an accumulator in communication with the energy harvesting device; and a microcontroller. The microcontroller manages communication between the first energy harvesting device, transceiver, and accumulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Fred Shakra, Phil Louden, Spyro Kotsonis
  • Patent number: 8164980
    Abstract: A drill string component includes a box-end and a pin-end. Each end includes a signal transceiver, which are operably coupled together. Each signal transceiver communicates with another signal transceiver in another component to form a communication network in the drillstring. An end-cap may be placed in the central bore of the pin-end of a component to form an annular chamber between a side of the end-cap and a wall of the central bore of the pin-end when the end-cap is disposed in the central bore. In some embodiments, an electronics module may be placed in the annular chamber and configured to communicate with one of the signal transceivers. Accelerometer data, as well as other sensor data, at various locations along the drillstring may be sampled by the electronics module and communicated to a remote computer. Drillstring motion dynamics, such as vibration, may be determined based on the accelerometer data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Eric C. Sullivan, Paul E. Pastusek
  • Patent number: 8164475
    Abstract: A downhole signal receiving system where a pair of setting devices (51) are used to electrically connect with downhole structure and are connected to one another by a bulk conductor (52). Signals are extracted by using a detecting means (53) that does not interrupt the conduction path. The tool provides a low impedance conduction path along which signals from the surrounding structure can flow to facilitate detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Expro North Sea Limited
    Inventor: Steven Martin Hudson
  • Patent number: 8164476
    Abstract: A hybrid telemetry system for passing signals between a surface control unit and a downhole tool is provided. The downhole tool is deployed via a drill string into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The hybrid telemetry system includes an uphole connector, a downhole connector, and a cable operatively connecting the uphole and downhole connectors. The uphole connector is operatively connectable to a drill string telemetry system for communication therewith. The downhole connector is operatively connectable to the downhole tool for communication therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: IntelliServ, LLC
    Inventors: Jean-Michel Hache, Remi Hutin, Raghu Madhavan, David Santoso
  • Patent number: 8134476
    Abstract: A system for communicating between a first location and a second location comprises a jointed tubular string having a first section and a second section connected at a connection joint, with the tubular string having a fluid in an internal passage thereof. A first acoustic transducer is mounted in the internal passage of the first section proximate the connection joint, and a second acoustic transducer is mounted in the internal passage of the second section proximate the connection joint. A signal transmitted from the first location to the second location is transmitted across the connection joint as an acoustic signal in the fluid from the first acoustic transducer to the second acoustic transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Roland E. Chemali, Volker Krueger, Peter Aronstam, Roger Fincher, Larry Watkins
  • Patent number: 8120509
    Abstract: An MWD data transmission system and method for determining and transmitting the environmental properties of the downhole borehole assembly (BHA) to surface data receivers via mud pulse telemetry, EM telemetry, or both mud pulse telemetry and EM telemetry based on one or more determined properties of the downhole environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Multi-Shot LLC
    Inventor: Allen Richard Young
  • Patent number: 8111171
    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: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Clark
  • Patent number: 8040755
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating a change in length of a wellbore conveyance device in a wellbore. A reference signal is sent along a first path and a wellbore signal having a phase relationship with the reference signal is sent along a wellbore path. A change in length of the wellbore conveyance device is estimated from a phase shift between the reference signal and the wellbore signal. The frequency of the wellbore signal may be changed downhole. The wellbore conveyance device may have at least one conductor under a maintained tension. A length of the wellbore conveyance device is estimated from the estimated change in the length. For a drill string composed of a plurality of wellbore tubulars, a phase shift of the drill sting is determined upon adding a wellbore tubular to the drill string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: John F. Priest
  • Patent number: 8031081
    Abstract: An embodiment of a wireless telemetry system for providing signal communication across a wired-communication gap in a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”), the BHA having an upper portion and a lower portion separated by the wired-communication gap, includes an upper transceiver positioned in the upper portion and in signal communication with a surface telemetry system and a lower transceiver positioned in the lower portion and in signal communication with a drilling tool, the upper and the lower transceivers in signal communication with one another via wireless induction telemetry. Each transceiver may include an antenna that is positioned within the bore of a drill collar adjacent to a thinned wall section in the drill collar. The thinned wall section may include one or more of increasing an inside diameter relative to a base inside diameter of the bore and decreasing an outside diameter relative to a base outside diameter of the drill collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Attilio C. Pisoni, David L. Smith, Brian Clark, Jean Seydoux, Vassilis Varveropoulos
  • Patent number: 8022840
    Abstract: A method for enhancing downhole telemetry performance comprising enhancing a signal in order to offset signal-to-noise ratio reduction with increasing measured depth, wherein the signal is modified at specified measured depths which are inferred from acoustic wave velocity determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff
  • Patent number: 8009511
    Abstract: A telemetry system for communication in a borehole uses two spaced-apart transducers. The outputs from the two transducers are filtered to decoupled tool signals traveling in opposite directions. One of the two signals may be it telemetry signal while other signal may be pump noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Nabil Hentati
  • Publication number: 20110205080
    Abstract: A method and system are presented for transmitting data along tubing in a borehole, comprising generating an acoustic signal using a transmitter at a first location on the tubing, and receiving the acoustic signal at a receiver at a second location on the tubing. The method and system further comprise: (i) generating the acoustic signal at the transmitter at a first frequency and bit rate; (ii) receiving the acoustic signal at the first frequency at the receiver and attempting to synchronise the receiver at the first frequency, and (iiia) if the synchronization is successful, continuing to transmit the acoustic signal so as to pass the data from the transmitter to the receiver; or (iiib) if the synchronization is unsuccessful, adjusting the frequency and/or bit rate of the signal and repeating steps (i)-(iii) on the basis of the adjusted signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: Guillaume Millot, Erwann Lemenager
  • Patent number: 8004421
    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: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Clark
  • Patent number: 7990282
    Abstract: An acoustic telemetry apparatus and methods for communicating digital data from a down-hole location through a borehole to the surface or between locations within the borehole are described including a receiver and a transmitter linked by an acoustic channel (210) wherein acoustic channel has a cross-sectional area of 58 cm2 or less and the transmitter comprises an electro-active transducer generating a modulated continuous waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Songming Huang, Franck Monmont
  • Publication number: 20110163889
    Abstract: Non-contacting means of measuring the material velocities of harmonic acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of drillpipe, production tubing or coiled tubing are disclosed. Also disclosed are contacting means, enabling measurement of accelerations or material velocities associated with acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of the tubing, utilizing as a detector either a wireless accelerometer system or an optical means, or both; these may also be applied to mud pulse telemetry, wherein the telemetry waves are carried via the drilling fluid, causing strain in the pipe wall that in turn causes wall deformation that can be directly or indirectly assessed by optical means. The present invention enables detection of telemetry wave detection in space-constrained situations. The invention also teaches a substantially contactless method of determining the time-based changes of the propagating telemetry waves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff, Douglas S. Drumheller
  • Patent number: 7932834
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services. Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Michel Beique, Morris Benjamin Robbins
  • Patent number: 7928861
    Abstract: Non-contacting means of measuring the material velocities of harmonic acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of drillpipe, production tubing or coiled tubing are disclosed. Also disclosed are contacting means, enabling measurement of accelerations or material velocities associated with acoustic telemetry waves travelling along the wall of the tubing, utilizing as a detector either a wireless accelerometer system or an optical means, or both; these may also be applied to mud pulse telemetry, wherein the telemetry waves are carried via the drilling fluid, causing strain in the pipe wall that in turn causes wall deformation that can be directly or indirectly assessed by optical means. The present invention enables detection of telemetry wave detection in space-constrained situations. The invention also teaches a substantially contactless method of determining the time-based changes of the propagating telemetry waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: XACT Downhole Telemetry Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff, Douglas S. Drumheller
  • Patent number: 7913773
    Abstract: The disclosure has application for use in conjunction with an operation of drilling an earth borehole using: a drilling rig, a drill string having its generally upper end mechanically coupleable with and suspendable from the drilling rig, and a bottom hole assembly adjacent the lower end the drill string, the bottom hole assembly including a drill bit at its lower end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Qiming Li, Brian Clark, Shyam B. Mehta, Remi Hutin, Christopher P. Reed, David Santoso, Lise Hvatum, Raghu Madhavan, Jean-Marc Follini, Geoffrey C. Downton, Walter D. Aldred
  • Publication number: 20110057810
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmitting data across a tool joint connection. In one embodiment, the system includes a first data transmission element connected to a first downhole component, a second data transmission element connected to a second downhole component, and a biasing element biasing at least one of the first and second data transmission elements towards the other data transmission element such that the first and second data transmission elements are in data communication with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Ashers Partouche
  • Patent number: 7894302
    Abstract: A drilling system utilizing a plurality of independent telemetry systems. The drilling system uses a drill collar as a pressure housing for downhole components of the system. One or more sensors are disposed within the pressure housing. These sensors can be MWD sensors, LWD sensors, or both MWD and LWD sensors. A plurality of independent borehole telemetry systems is used to telemeter sensor response data to the surface of the earth. Each sensor cooperates with a downhole component of at least one of the independent telemetry systems. The plurality of telemetry systems can be of the same type, such as a mud pulse systems. Alternately, the telemetry systems can be of different types including a mud pulse system and an electromagnetic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Precision Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Anthony Aiello, Michael Louis Larronde, John Martin, Steven R. Farley, Kirk Towns
  • Publication number: 20110032117
    Abstract: A downhole electromagnetic telemetry unit for use with a tubing string (5) includes an insulated electrically conductive member (31) and a processing unit (15). The insulated electrically conductive member (31) is electrically coupled to the tubing string (5) at an upper measuring point (23) and a lower measuring point (25). The processing unit (15) is configured to process a voltage difference measured between the upper measuring point (23) and the lower measuring point (25) across the insulated electrically conductive member (31) and to derive therefrom a signal transmitted from a surface location (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventors: Matthe Contant, Erwann Lemenager, Yves Mathieu, Juergen Zach
  • Publication number: 20110018735
    Abstract: Acoustic communication apparatus for use with downhole tools are described. An example acoustic communication apparatus for use in a wellbore includes a first acoustic transducer to generate first acoustic signals. The first acoustic transducer is mounted in an interior of a first drill collar to transmit the first acoustic signals via at least a portion of a body of a drillstring or a mud channel within the drillstring to a second drill collar. Additionally, the example acoustic communication apparatus includes a first receiver mounted to the first drill collar to receive second acoustic signals transmitted from the second drill collar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Fernando GARCIA-OSUNA, Miguel Pabon
  • Publication number: 20110006910
    Abstract: A method for enhancing downhole telemetry performance comprising enhancing a signal in order to offset signal-to-noise ratio reduction with increasing measured depth, wherein the signal is modified at specified measured depths which are inferred from acoustic wave velocity determination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff
  • Publication number: 20100328096
    Abstract: A hybrid telemetry system for passing signals between a surface control unit and a downhole tool is provided. The downhole tool is deployed via a drill string into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The hybrid telemetry system includes an uphole connector, a downhole connector, and a cable operatively connecting the uphole and downhole connectors. The uphole connector is operatively connectable to a drill string telemetry system for communication therewith. The downhole connector is operatively connectable to the downhole tool for communication therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: INTELLISERV, LLC.
    Inventors: Jean-Michel HACHE, Remi HUTIN, Raghu MADHAVAN, David SANTOSO
  • Patent number: 7859426
    Abstract: A coaxial transmission line for an electromagnetic wellbore telemetry system is disclosed. An inner conductive pipe is disposed inside an axial bore of the outer conductive pipe. An insulator is positioned between the outer conductive pipe and the inner conductive pipe. In a specific embodiment, the inner conductive pipe is perforated or slotted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Intelliserv, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Clark, Nobuyoshi Niina
  • Patent number: 7852232
    Abstract: A cycleable downhole tool such as a Jar, a hydraulic hammer, and a shock absorber adapted for telemetry. This invention applies to other tools where the active components of the tool are displaced when the tool is rotationally or translationally cycled. The invention consists of inductive or contact transmission rings that are connected by an extensible conductor. The extensible conductor permits the transmission of the signal before, after, and during the cycling of the tool. The signal may be continuous or intermittent during cycling. The invention also applies to downhole tools that do not cycle, but in operation are under such stress that an extensible conductor is beneficial. The extensible conductor may also consist of an extensible portion and a fixed portion. The extensible conductor also features clamps that maintain the conductor under stresses greater than that seen by the tool, and seals that are capable of protecting against downhole pressure and contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox
  • Patent number: 7835226
    Abstract: A system or corresponding method provides for communicating data in confined waveguides containing a fluid. The system includes processing and transmitter/receiver operations at nodes in or alone the confined waveguides and transducers to produce a propagation signal that transmits modulated data via the fluid in the confined waveguide. Applications include sensing information about the fluid, such as the pressure, pH, or other parameter(s), and transmitting that data via the fluid in the confined waveguide. For example, the system may be distributed about an oil pipeline or network of oil pipelines. Nodes in the system may include turbines that generate power for use by the nodes at levels sufficient to support the node for its activities. Signal processing and multiple transducers at each node may be employed to extend distances up to kilometers between nodes for low-cost operation of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: George Kokosalakis, Alexander M. Gorlov, Eduardo Kausel, Andrew J. Whittle
  • Patent number: 7834777
    Abstract: A power source for use in a downhole environment. The power source can include a microgenerator, where the microgenerator is comprised of a motive source, a rotor, a stator, and an electrical load. The motive source can be compressed gas, liquid, two-phase fluid, or combustion gases. The rotor may comprise a magnet and the stator may comprise a coil, such that rotating the rotor coaxially proximate to the stator produces electrical current. The electrical load includes any device used in downhole exploration and production that requires electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Randy Gold
  • Patent number: 7817061
    Abstract: A method for enhancing downhole telemetry performance comprising enhancing a signal in order to offset signal-to-noise ratio reduction with increasing measured depth, wherein the signal is modified at specified measured depths which are inferred from acoustic wave velocity determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: XAcT Downhole Telemetry Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff
  • Patent number: 7806180
    Abstract: Methods and systems are described for communicating with downhole locations and transmitting power to downhole locations. Use is made of a cable passing someway down into the well. This cable may be connected to a downhole sensor and may be used primarily for communicating with that sensor, but also used in the current techniques described herein. Electrical connection is achieved between the cable and the metallic structure of the well to allow signals to be transferred between the communications tool and the surface via the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Expro North Sea Limited
    Inventor: Steven Martin Hudson
  • Patent number: 7777644
    Abstract: A wired drill pipe for a drill string of a downhole tool positioned in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The wired drill pipe includes a drill pipe, a cable and a wire retainer. The drill pipe has a slot at each end thereof. The slots are adapted to receive at least one transformer. The drill pipe has an inner surface defining a passage for the flow of mud therethrough. The cable extends from the transformer into the passage of the drill pipe. The wire retainer is positioned on the inner surface of the drill pipe. The wire retainer is adapted to secure the cable therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: InatelliServ, LLC
    Inventors: Rahgu Madhavan, Bruce W. Boyle, Brian Clark, Stacy L. Johnson, David Santoso, Lise Hvatum
  • Patent number: 7768423
    Abstract: A method whereby a downhole drilling transmission device that communicates to the surface automatically modifies its transmission parameters in order that it substantially improves its ability to adequately communicate with a surface receiver despite increasing signal attenuation between the two as the length of drillpipe increases. This utilizes a simple measure of localized downhole pressure that then relies upon a look-up table or similar that provides a correspondence between said pressure and measured depth. Such a look-up table or similar can be readily built by incorporating appropriate features of the planned well such as drilling fluid flow rate, drilling fluid density, drilling fluid viscosity, well profile, bottom hole assembly component geometry, drillpipe geometry, and indications as to whether the fluid is flowing or stationary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: XAct Dowhole Telemetry Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, James M. Neff