Wellbore Casing Or Ground Patents (Class 340/854.5)
  • Patent number: 11713653
    Abstract: A well monitor for monitoring a downhole well condition. The well monitor comprises an electrical generator mounted to a tubing in the well, the generator comprising magnets and windings movable relative to one another by a pump rod received in the tubing. The monitor comprises an energy storage device electrically coupled to the generator for storing generated electrical energy. A vibration transducer is electrically coupled to the energy storage device. The well monitor comprises a controller for selectively powering the vibration transducer to produce a signal indicative of the well condition for transmission through the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Inventors: Paul John Feluch, Barry Dale Toppings
  • Patent number: 10458229
    Abstract: A system that is positionable in a wellbore can include a transceiver that is positionable external to a casing string and programmable to vary a number of data packets that are wirelessly transmitted by the transceiver. The number of data packets can correspond to an amount of data wirelessly transmitted by the transceiver about an environment in the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark W. Roberson, Krishna M. Ravi
  • Patent number: 10190405
    Abstract: An example method includes polling a plurality of reference nodes distributed along one or more reference wells. The method also includes steering a bottomhole assembly in another well based at least in part on information obtained from said polling. A related system includes a plurality of reference nodes distributed along one or more reference wells. The system also includes a bottomhole assembly in another well. The system also includes a surface controller. The surface controller polls the plurality of reference nodes to obtain position information regarding the bottomhole assembly and directs a steering module of the bottomhole assembly based on the obtained position information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard T. Hay, Mac Upsahll
  • Patent number: 9523789
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and transmitter assemblies for exploring geophysical formations at great depths. In order to explore the formation, transmitter assemblies with a size less than 500 nanometers are inserted into the formation. The transmitter assemblies propel through the formation, analyzing fluids and conditions as each moves through the formation. The transmitter assemblies can communicate with a machine on the surface via a series of receivers and transmitters located in the wellbore. The machine on the surface is able to combine and analyze the data from the nanorobots to create a three dimensional map of the formation. The map shows the locations of pathways through the formation, pockets of hydrocarbons within the formation, and the boundaries of the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Rami Ahmed Kamal, Modiu L. Sanni, Mazen Y. Kanj
  • Patent number: 9513401
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and transmitter assemblies for exploring geophysical formations at great depths. In order to explore the formation, transmitter assemblies with a size less than 500 nanometers are inserted into the formation. The transmitter assemblies include sensors and propel through the formation, analyzing fluids and conditions as each moves through the formation. The transmitter assemblies can communicate with a machine on the surface via a series of receivers and transmitters located in the wellbore. The machine on the surface is able to combine and analyze the data from the nanorobots to create a three dimensional map of the formation. The map shows the locations of pathways through the formation, pockets of hydrocarbons within the formation, and the boundaries of the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Rami Ahmed Kamal, Modiu L. Sanni, Mazen Y. Kanj
  • Patent number: 9482781
    Abstract: Systems and transmitter assemblies for exploring geophysical formations at great depths. In order to explore the formation, transmitter assemblies with a size less than 500 nanometers are inserted into the formation. The transmitter assemblies include propulsion devices to propel through the formation, analyzing fluids and conditions as each moves through the formation. The transmitter assemblies can communicate with a machine on the surface via a series of receivers and transmitters located in the wellbore. The machine on the surface is able to combine and analyze the data from the nanorobots to create a three dimensional map of the formation. The map shows the locations of pathways through the formation, pockets of hydrocarbons within the formation, and the boundaries of the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Rami Ahmed Kamal, Modiu L. Sanni, Mazen Y. Kanj
  • Patent number: 9410420
    Abstract: A well comprising a borehole and wellhead apparatus, and a communication box at or proximate to the wellhead apparatus, the well comprising a plurality of sensors coupled to wireless transmitters which are adapted to transmit information from the sensors to the communication box; the sensors comprising at least one pressure sensor; and the well comprising a first memory device spaced apart from the communication box, the first memory device configured to store information from the sensors, wherein the communication box comprises a receiver adapted to receive signals from the transmitters, and at least one of a transmission device and a second memory device to transmit and/or store data received from the transmitters. The communication box is typically highly shock resistant (above 50 Gs for at least 5 ms, all axes) and so provides, together with other optional features, a system to monitor a well, especially before, during or after an emergency situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Metrol Technology Limited
    Inventors: Shaun Compton Ross, Leslie David Jarvis
  • Patent number: 8982667
    Abstract: A stacked-ring, slow-wave acoustic telemetry isolation system and method for use with tubular assemblies such as drillpipe or production tubing comprising an acoustic wave transmitter, the acoustic isolator behaving such that a “down” wave propagated toward the isolator is reflected back substantially in phase with an “up” wave propagated from the acoustic wave source away from the isolator. The acoustic isolator is similarly effective in reflecting “up” propagating waves originating from below the isolator, hence further protecting the acoustic wave source from possible deleterious interference. It causes substantially all of the emitted wave energy to travel in a chosen direction along the drill pipe, thus aiding the efficiency of acoustic telemetry said pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Xact Downhole Telemetry, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, David D. Whalen, Douglas S. Drumheller
  • Patent number: 8981958
    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: August 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Scientific Drilling International, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Price, Donald H. Van Steenwyk, Harold T. Buscher
  • Publication number: 20150007982
    Abstract: A telemetry system including a tubular. A pump in operable communication with the tubular configured to pump a fluid through the tubular; a flow altering arrangement in operable communication with at least one of the pump and the tubular. A flow interacting detail disposed in the tubular; and a load sensor configured to detect forces imposed on the flow interacting detail due to flow through the flow interacting detail and output signals related to the forces detected. Also included is a method of communicating through a tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Thomas J. Zweifel
  • Patent number: 8789620
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of receiving and/or transmitting information in a well drilled in a geological formation between a first location and a second location, the well comprising a casing communicating with the geological formation. The method comprises placing a first transducer at a first location, placing a second transducer at a second location. Transmitting an electric signal between the first and second transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Erwan Lemenager, Martin Luling, Yves Mathieu, Christian Chouzenoux
  • Patent number: 8559272
    Abstract: An acoustic logging while drilling tool includes an acoustic transmitter and a linear array of acoustic receivers. At least one of the transmitter and the linear array of receivers is deployed on a blade having an outer diameter greater than that of the tool body. In preferred embodiments the transmitter and linear array are each deployed on a distinct blade. Deployment of the transmitter and/or the receivers on a blade reduces the standoff distance to the borehole wall which tends to improve the signal strength of received guided waves without an increase in transmitter power or receiver sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Tsili Wang
  • Patent number: 8552884
    Abstract: A power and signal distribution system comprises a converter unit connected to a plurality of control units. The converter unit and the control units are arranged in areas difficult to access, for instance on the sea bed. The converter unit is connected to a remote monitoring and supplying device via at least one cable connection. Each control unit has assigned thereto at least one production apparatus for crude oil or natural gas corresponding gate valves, chokes, biops, actuators. In some embodiments, the power and signal distribution system the converter unit comprises a data separation device and a voltage converter. The converted voltage from the voltage converter is transmitted together with data/signals from the converter unit to at least one of the control units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Klaus Biester, Norbert Lenz, Peter Kunow, Steffen Gebauer, Martin Trog, Volker Zabe
  • Publication number: 20130234860
    Abstract: A pipeline system includes at least one electrically-conducting pipeline, which is connected to the ground and which is isolated from the ground. A cathode protection system is provided, which includes a plurality of ground rods arranged in the ground, which are each connected electrically to the ground and are coupled electrically to the pipeline. The pipeline system also includes a communication system with a plurality of communication devices, allowing data to be transmitted via the pipeline for communication between the communication devices. The communication devices have sensor units arranged along the pipeline, which are supplied with energy from the cathode protection system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rudolf Sollacher, Thomas Wuchenauer
  • Patent number: 8525690
    Abstract: A top drive assembly may comprise a drive motor that provides rotational torque to a drill string for driving the drill string into the earth. A sensor and a transmitter may be located on a section of the drill string or on a device that can be incorporated into a drill string. The sensor may take measurements of the drill string that is rotating during the drilling operation. If the sensor is located near the top drive assembly, the sensor may take measurements of an upper portion of the rotating drill string during the drilling operation. The transmitter may wirelessly transmit the sensor information in real-time to a coordinator or main radio. The transmitter may also be located near the top drive assembly and during the drilling operation, may transmit from the rotating drill string while located in a position above the earth's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: APS Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Puro, Phillip T. Harkawik
  • 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
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120146807
    Abstract: A method and arrangement for mud telemetry having components of a wellbore casing, a combination rotor stator positioned inside the wellbore casing, an uphole detection arrangement configured to sense increases and decreases in pressure, a valve actuator, a valve configured to be actuated by the valve actuator, the valve configured to convey a fluid from an inside of the wellbore casing to an outside of the wellbore casing and cause a decrease in fluid pressure in the wellbore casing, and a downhole tool configured to measure at least one formation parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Remi Hutin
  • Publication number: 20110241897
    Abstract: Presently, existing completion tools have not been designed to couple with wired drill pipe. As such, present completions operations and tools have not been able to take advantage of the expanded bandwidth in wire drill pipe. Instead of designing new completions tools with wired pipe connections, the disclosed system and methods propose use of a short-hop or wireless system to transmit data from a completions tool to an upper receiver module coupled to the wired drill pipe. Various measurements from the region around the completions tool may be transmitted from one or more lower wireless modules to the upper wireless module and then transmitted through the wired drill pipe to the surface. Likewise, signals may be transmitted from the surface through the wired drill pipe to the upper module and then to the lower wireless module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: Jack V. Haynes, Stephen T. Edwards, Catherine Hyde-Barber
  • Patent number: 7830273
    Abstract: A sensor network for monitoring of a pipeline comprises a sensor disposed for monitoring of a pipeline, the sensor capable of acquiring data related to the pipeline and communicating sensor data; a first remote sensor interface (RSI) comprising a data communications device capable of receiving the sensor data communicated from the sensor, and transmitting data relating to the received sensor data; and a data communications device capable of receiving the data transmitted by the first RSI and transmitting data related to the sensor data directly or indirectly to a network external to the sensor network. The sensor network comprises a common designation network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Terahop Networks, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Twitchell, Jr.
  • 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: 7652592
    Abstract: The device relates to an installation comprising a cavity extending from the surface of the ground and provided with at least one electrically conductive tubular element. The device comprises a single-strand smooth cable for supporting an action and/or measurement assembly, which cable is electrically conductive and has a breaking strength greater than 300 daN, and is disposed in the tubular element. The surface of the cable is electrically insulated at least in part from said tubular element. The device includes transmitter means and receiver means for transmitting and receiving an electrical and/or electromagnetic signal, said means being situated in the vicinity of the surface and in the cavity, and being electrically connected to the cable and to the tubular element and/or an underground formation. The invention is applicable to transmitting information and to controlling tools in an oil well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Geoservices
    Inventors: Bruno Le Briere, Vincent Chatelet, François Millet
  • Patent number: 7649474
    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: November 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael F. Gard
  • Patent number: 7537053
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a downhole power generation assembly has a downhole tool string component comprising a bore. A collar is rotatably supported within the bore and has a centralized fluid passageway and a plurality of turbine blades. The collar is connected to a power generation element such that rotation of the collar moves the power generation element and induces an electrical current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Scott Dahlgren, Jonathan Marshall, Tyson J. Wilde
  • Patent number: 7424176
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for terminating and anchoring fiber optic connections are disclosed. One apparatus includes a sealed body enclosing a passage for one or more optical fibers terminating in connections proximate a first end of the sealed body, the sealed body having a diameter less than an internal diameter of an oilfield tubular, the sealed body having a second end adapted to sealingly engage and anchor an end of a fiber optic carrier conduit, the second end connecting the sealed body to the fiber optic carrier conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Kension, Michael G. Gay, Robert Bucher, Mahmuda Afroz
  • Patent number: 7348892
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for receiving a telemetry signal with a receiver that is moveably disposed within a drillstring. In certain embodiments, the system comprises a surface module coupled to the upper end of a drillstring, an upper module detachably connected to the surface module, and a lower module moveably disposed within the drillstring. The lower module is coupled to the upper module by an extendable cable. A telemetry signal receiver is disposed on said lower module, which also includes a tractor assembly for moving the lower module through the drillstring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul F. Rodney
  • Patent number: 7324011
    Abstract: A pipeline communication system and method includes a pipeline having a surface extending along at least a portion of the length of the pipeline. A conductive bus is formed to and extends along a portion of the surface of the pipeline. The conductive bus includes a first conductive trace and a second conductive trace with the first and second conductive traces being adapted to conformally couple with a pipeline at the surface extending along at least a portion of the length of the pipeline. A transmitter for sending information along the conductive bus on the pipeline is coupled thereto and a receiver for receiving the information from the conductive bus on the pipeline is also couple to the conductive bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventor: John G. Richardson
  • Patent number: 7256707
    Abstract: A modulated reflectance well telemetry apparatus having an electrically conductive pipe extending from above a surface to a point below the surface inside a casing. An electrical conductor is located at a position a distance from the electrically conductive pipe and extending from above the surface to a point below the surface. Modulated reflectance apparatus is located below the surface for modulating well data into a RF carrier transmitted from the surface and reflecting the modulated carrier back to the surface. A RF transceiver is located at the surface and is connected between the electrically conductive pipe and the electrical conductor for transmitting a RF signal that is confined between the electrically conductive well pipe and the electrical conductor to the modulated reflectance apparatus, and for receiving reflected data on the well from the modulated reflectance apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: David D. Clark, Don M. Coates
  • Patent number: 7257050
    Abstract: A telemetry system having: a pipe; a SCADA box acoustically coupled to the pipe; and a gauge inserted in the pipe, the gauge comprising: an acoustic wave generator; a coupler mechanically connected to the acoustic wave generator, wherein the coupler is engageable and disengageable with the pipe, wherein the coupler defines an acoustic transmission path between the acoustic wave generator and the pipe when engaged with the pipe; and a signal controller in communication with the acoustic wave generator. A method for communicating information in a wellbore from a downhole location to the surface, the method having the following steps: running a downhole gauge into a pipe within the wellbore, wherein the downhole gauge comprise an acoustic wave generator; setting the downhole gauge in the pipe; and communicating an acoustic signal between the downhole gauge and the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: John Stewart, Paul Tubel, Clark J. Bergeron
  • Patent number: 7253745
    Abstract: An apparatus in accordance with the invention may include a downhole tool and a data transmission path incorporated into the downhole tool. The data transmission path may include one or more contact surfaces providing electrical continuity to the data transmission path. To protect the contact surfaces from corrosion while maintaining electrical conductivity, a coating may be attached to one or more of the contact surfaces. The coating may include any of various materials that increase the corrosion-resistance of the underlying base metal, including but not limited to cobalt, nickel, tin, tin-lead, platinum, palladium, gold, silver, zinc, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Scott Steven Dahlgren, Pierre A. Smith
  • Patent number: 7228902
    Abstract: A system and method for communicating information between downhole equipment in a wellbore and surface equipment, comprising a first device disposed in a wellbore for receiving at least one first signal and transmitting at least one second signal. A surface device is used for receiving the at least one second signal and transmitting the at least one first signal. At least one repeater is disposed at a predetermined location in a wall of the wellbore for receiving and retransmitting the first signal and the second signal. A method for communicating information between downhole equipment in a wellbore and surface equipment, comprises deploying a tubular member in the wellbore, the tubular member having a transmitter disposed therein; disposing at least one signal repeater at a predetermined location in a wall of the wellbore; and transmitting a signal from the transmitter to a surface receiver through the at least one repeater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Joachim Oppelt
  • Patent number: 7193526
    Abstract: A double shouldered downhole tool connection comprises box and pin connections having mating threads intermediate mating primary and secondary shoulders. The connection further comprises a secondary shoulder component retained in the box connection intermediate a floating component and the primary shoulders. The secondary shoulder component and the pin connection cooperate to transfer a portion of makeup load to the box connection. The downhole tool may be selected from the group consisting of drill pipe, drill collars, production pipe, and reamers. The floating component may be selected from the group consisting of electronics modules, generators, gyroscopes, power sources, and stators. The secondary shoulder component may comprises an interface to the box connection selected from the group consisting of radial grooves, axial grooves, tapered grooves, radial protrusions, axial protrusions, tapered protrusions, shoulders, and threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Andrei Muradov, David S. Pixton, Scott Steven Dahlgren, Michael A. Briscoe
  • Patent number: 7163065
    Abstract: Telemetry systems and methods are disclosed for real time communication of information between multiple positions in a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Zhiyi Zhang, Bruno Best, Gilberto Toffolo
  • Patent number: 7154412
    Abstract: A power delivery system for a wireline tool includes two independent power transmission loops operating on a standard six-conductor cable. The two loops each connect directly to a respective terminals of a DC auxiliary power supply. Each loop also couples through a transformer to an AC instrument power supply. Another transformer for telemetry signals facilitates bidirectional communication between the downhole tool and an uphole computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Dodge, George Goodman, Ray Davies, Tom Standley
  • Patent number: 7132958
    Abstract: A method and a downhole telemetry system a downhole telemetry system using discrete multitone modulation for transmitting a data stream over a plurality of transmission modes is provided. The downhole telemetry system includes a downhole transmitter, a cable, and a surface receiver. The downhole transmitter is configured to transmit the data stream over the plurality of transmission modes. The surface receiver is coupled to the downhole transmitter via the cable and is configured to combine signals from each of the plurality of transmission modes to obtain the data stream transmitted by the downhole receiver. The method includes receiving a plurality of signals over the plurality of transmission modes from a downhole package, and may further include combining the plurality of signals to form at least one data stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Dodge, Wallace R. Gardner
  • Patent number: 7071837
    Abstract: Data transmission in pipeline systems A first set of apparatus is arranged for transmitting data from a point in a cased section of a well 1, 3 to a remote location. The apparatus may be used as a relay station 6 to increase operational depth. Signals are applied to and received from the string 1 at the relay station 6 and a selected length of the string 1 is provided with insulating spacer means 9 on either side of the relay station to ensure that the string 1 and casing 3 are effectively isolated for a selected minimum distance. This enables potential differences to be both applied to and detected from the string 1, thus allowing data transmission and reception. A second set of apparatus is arranged for transmitting from an internal unit 408 inside a cased section of the well 401, 403 to the immediate surrounding area outside the casing 403. The internal unit 408 injects current into the string 401. A toroid 415 which surrounds the casing 403 is provided to pick up signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Expro North Sea Limited
    Inventors: Steven Martin Hudson, Daniel Joinson
  • Patent number: 7006009
    Abstract: A well servicing system includes a computer-based system that monitors pumping or other service operations at a well site and monitors deliveries and withdrawals of chemicals at a bulk storage station. A GPS device or other location identifier provides a location value that identifies the location of the service vehicle. A GPS reading is triggered by actuation of the vehicle's parking brake, and the location value is recorded in association with a process-related transducer value. The transducer value is based on the service vehicle performing some type of service operation either at the well site or at the bulk storage station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Key Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederic M. Newman
  • Patent number: 6888473
    Abstract: A drill pipe having a box end having a tapered thread, and an internal shoulder and an external face for engagement with a drill pipe pin end having a tapered mating thread, and an external shoulder and an external face adapted for data acquisition or transmission. The relative dimensions of the box and pin ends are precisely controlled so that when the tool joint is made up, a repeatable reference plane is established for transmitting power and tuning downhole sensors, transducers, and means for sending and receiving data along the drill string. When the power or data acquisition and transmission means are located in the tool joint, the dimensions of the tool joint are further proportioned to compensate for the loss of cross-sectional area in order maintain the joints ability to sustain nominal makeup torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Joe Fox, David S. Pixton, H. Tracy Hall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6866306
    Abstract: A first flux-loop inductive coupler element electrically couples with a second flux-loop inductive coupler element. The first flux-loop inductive coupler element comprises a first ring-like core having high magnetic permeability and a conical-section annular first face transverse to the plane of the first core. The first face has a first annular groove separating a first conical-section larger-diameter face and a first conical-section smaller-diameter face. A first coil is wound within the annular groove. The first and second cores form a low-reluctance closed magnetic path around the first coil and a second coil of the second flux-loop inductive coupler element. A first current-loop inductive coupler element electrically couples with a second current-loop inductive coupler element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce W. Boyle, Raghu Madhavan, Jacques Jundt
  • Patent number: 6864801
    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 communicating with the remote sensing unit, a casing joint having nonconductive “windows” for allowing a internally located antenna to communicate with the 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 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. The remote sensing unit is an active device with the capability of responding to control commands by determining certain subsurface formation characteristics such as pressure or temperature, and transmitting corresponding data values to a wellbore tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jacques Tabanou, Reinhart Ciglenec
  • Patent number: 6798338
    Abstract: Data or control signals are communicated over a three phase power cable supplying power from a surface location to a motor/pump assembly located within a wellbore utilizing modulated radio frequency signals. The radio frequency signals may be impressed on the power cable through physical taps to the power cable conductors or by reactive coupling to the power cable. The transmission frequency is selected from a range of frequencies which propagate through the motor windings and up the power cable with sufficient amplitude to be received and processed. The modulated RF signal may be transmitted concurrently with the three phase power on the power cable, and simultaneous bidirectional communications between the surface and downhole locations may be supported utilizing, for example, discrete frequencies for transmission in different directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: James Edward Layton
  • Patent number: 6761219
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for completing a subterranean well bore in at least one subterranean formation. At least one perforating gun assembly is positioned on the outside of casing in a subterranean well bore. A suitable signal, such as a hydraulic, electric or wave signal, is transported to the perforating gun assembly so as to detonate one or more explosive charges in the perforating gun assembly which are aimed toward the casing. At least one wall in the casing is perforated thereby establishing fluid communication through the wall of the casing. Usually, cement surrounding the casing and a subterranean formation surrounding the casing are also perforated to establish fluid communication between the formation and the interior of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Marathon Oil Company
    Inventors: Philip M. Snider, Eldon G. Williams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6727828
    Abstract: A system for protecting the transmission of signals from and/or to a tool in a high pressure environment. The system includes a tool connected to a signal transmission line, such as an electrical cable or optical fiber. The signal transmission line is surrounded by a protective tube that is connected to the tool by a connector having a hollow chamber in communication with the interior of the tube. A fluid, such as a dielectric liquid, is disposed within the connector and the tubing at a pressure higher than the environmental pressure. In the event of a leak at, for instance, the connector, the high pressure fluid flows outwardly rather than allowing the inflow of deleterious fluid from the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: David L. Malone, Christophe M. Rayssiguier, Alexandre G. E. Kosmala, Michael R. Johnson, Joseph P. Varkey
  • Patent number: 6715550
    Abstract: A gas-lift well having a controllable gas-lift valve is provided. The well uses the tubing and casing to communicate with and power the controllable valve from the surface. Induction chokes at the surface and downhole electrically isolate the tubing from the casing. A high band-width, adaptable communication system is used to communicate between the controllable valve and the surface. Additional sensors, such as pressure, temperature, and acoustic sensors, may be provided downhole to more accurately assess downhole conditions. The controllable valve is varied opened or closed, depending on downhole conditions, oil production, gas usage and availability, to optimize production and assist in unloading. While conventional, bellows-type, gas-lift valves frequently fail and leak—often undetected—the controllable valve hereof permits known precise operation and concomitant control of the gas-lift well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Robert Rex Burnett, William Mountjoy Savage, Fred Gordon Carl, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6659174
    Abstract: A component, such as an electric motor, for use in a subterranean environment. The component comprises an attached recording system to record the cumulative use time of the component. The recording system typically includes a timing circuit or other circuit to output data related to use of the component. This data is recorded by a recording device to maintain a cumulative total.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventor: James R. Hogan
  • Patent number: 6628206
    Abstract: A method and a system for the transmission of information from a well (1; 20) drilled through geological formation layers (3) at least partly cased by metal tubes (4; 23; 24; 31). The method includes the placing in said well of an information transceiver (E) operating by electromagnetic waves created by the injection of an electric signal by a dipole (P1-P2) conductively connected to the metal tubes used for guiding the transmitted waves. In the method, identification takes place of the attenuation of the transmission by certain formation layers (3a, 3b; 25; 30) having a low resistivity and then there is an at least partial electrical insulation of the metal tubes located opposite the low resistivity layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Geoservices S.A.
    Inventor: Louis Soulier
  • Patent number: 6614360
    Abstract: An acoustic MWD system comprises at least one transmitter array and at least one receiver array spaced axially along an essentially tubular downhole subassembly. Each transmitter and receiver array includes a plurality of elements circumferentially disposed on the outside of the assembly. The downhole subassembly also comprises a processor, data storage, telemetry elements, power supplies and control circuits as well as other types of sensors. In one embodiment of the invention, the transmitters are operated as a quadrupole in orthogonal orientations and signals from two receiver elements processed to attenuate common modes (including body waves through the tool, monopole waves and Stoneley waves). In another embodiment, the transmitters are used as crossed dipoles and signals received by cross-dipole receivers may be used to determine shear wave birefringence in the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: James V. Leggett, III, Vladimir Dubinsky, Douglas Patterson
  • Publication number: 20030137429
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Brian Clark, John Hunka, Mark T. Frey, David L. Smith, Dhananjay Ramaswamy, Anthony Collins, Stephen Bonner
  • Publication number: 20030098799
    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).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas H. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 6515592
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is presented for establishing electrical connection to permanent downhole oilfield installations using an electrically insulated conducting casing. Current is caused to flow in the casing by a source on the surface connected to the casing. One or more permanent downhole installations are electrically connected to the casing, and the electrical connection to the casing is used to power the downhole installations. The downhole installations also inject a signal into the insulated casing that passes via the casing to a surface readout which detects and records the downhole signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Kamal Babour, David Rossi, Christian Chouzenoux