Drilling Patents (Class 702/9)
  • Publication number: 20110174541
    Abstract: A system for drilling a well comprises a drill string in a wellbore having a bit at a distal end thereof. At least one sensor measures a drilling parameter. A computer controller has a set of instructions stored therein to process the measured drilling parameter over a drilled interval to calculate, in substantially real time, an updated friction slope and an updated worn bit slope and to calculate an updated drilling parameter for at least a portion of the well-based on the updated friction slope and the updated worn bit slope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael John Strachan, Cili Sun
  • Publication number: 20110172923
    Abstract: Methods and devices for determining a rate of penetration and/or rate of rotation for a drilling assembly or logging tool while drilling or logging a wellbore are provided. The methods can include the steps of: at respective first and second time instant, acquiring and storing a first logging data frame using a first array of sensors and a second logging data frame using a second array of sensors where wherein the logging data relate to at least one property of a zone surrounding the wellbore and the second logging data frame overlaps at least partially the first logging data frame; comparing the first and second logging data frames; determining a relative change in depth and/or azimuth between the first and second logging data frames; and calculating the rate of penetration and/or rate of rotation based on the relative change in depth and/or azimuth determined and a difference between the first and second time instants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventors: Roel Van Os, Dominique Dion, Philip Cheung
  • Publication number: 20110172921
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus to process measurements associated with drilling operations are described. An example method of modifying processing results during a subterranean formation drilling operation includes identifying a plurality of parameters and processing measurements associated with the subterranean formation obtained while drilling and the plurality of parameters to generate first results. Additionally, the example method includes processing measurements associated with the subterranean formation obtained while drilling is temporarily suspended and the plurality of parameters to generate second results and comparing the first and second results. Further, the example method includes, in response to the comparison of the first and second results, modifying the first results based on the second results to improve a quality of the first results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: HENRI-PIERRE VALERO, SANDIP BOSE
  • Patent number: 7979240
    Abstract: The present application relates to a system and method for real-time monitoring and failure prediction of electrical submersible pumps. The design includes generating a failure prediction value with a management system by calculating a percentage change of the respective first measurement values and the corresponding user-supplied stable operating values, the failure prediction value representing likelihood of failure of the electrical submersible pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Lance I. Fielder
  • Publication number: 20110155463
    Abstract: An apparatus receives survey instructions from a directed unit and measurement data from a measurement unit. The apparatus directs a survey workflow comprising a plurality of stages, determines the completion of at least one of the stages based upon at least one of the measurement data and the survey instructions, provides workflow information, selects survey data from the measurement data, and stores the survey data in a memory. The apparatus sends the workflow information to the directed unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Sergey Khromov, Aaron Eddy, Wes Hansen, Robert Hopkins
  • Publication number: 20110161009
    Abstract: A method for forming a borehole image includes fitting logging sensor measurements residing in each of a plurality of azimuthal windows with corresponding mathematical fitting functions. The functions may then be evaluated at one or more corresponding azimuthal positions to obtain at least one sector value for each of the azimuthal windows. A two dimensional borehole image may be formed by repeating the procedure at multiple measured depths in the borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Tsili Wang
  • Patent number: 7970543
    Abstract: A method of predicting the destructive capacity of a tropical cyclone based on a new Wind Destructive Potential (WDP) and Storm Surge Destructive Potential (SDP) scales which provide a manner to rate the severity of hurricanes and typhoons, based on information provided in operational forecast and warning products, experimental wind field products, or gridded numerical weather prediction model outputs. These new scales are formulated to be consistent with the physical mechanism through which tropical cyclones impact coastal communities through wind, storm surges and wave damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America, represented by the Secretary of Commerce
    Inventors: Mark D. Powell, Timothy A. Reinhold
  • Patent number: 7966874
    Abstract: Harmonics and subharmonics of acoustic measurements made during rotation of a sensor on a downhole are processed to estimate the location of the imager, and size and shape of the borehole. A piecewise elliptical fitting procedure may be used. These estimates may be used to correct measurements made by a standoff-sensitive formation evaluation sensor such as a neutron porosity tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Gamal A. Hassan, James V. Leggett, III, Gavin Lindsay, Philip L. Kurkoski
  • Publication number: 20110147082
    Abstract: A tracking receiver system is used to track the progress of a downhole tool along a subsurface path having a desired grade. The tracking receiver system is adapted to detect a reference line originating from a reference line receiver and to determine the position of the downhole tool along a desired subsurface path relative to the reference line. In an alternative embodiment the tracking receiver system may comprise a global positioning satellite system to provide information used to determine the position of the downhole tool relative to the desired subsurface path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Floyd R. Gunsaulis, Brian K. Bailey, Scott B. Cole, Kelvin P. Self, Gerald A. Stangl
  • Publication number: 20110153217
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to obtain acceleration data from an operational drillstring, decompose the acceleration data into one or more empirical modes, monitor the amplitude of at least one of the empirical modes to detect indications exceeding a preselected threshold, and modify drillstring operational parameters comprising at least one of rotational speed, weight on bit, or mud flow, based on the indications. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul F. Rodney
  • Publication number: 20110153296
    Abstract: Apparatus and method of conducting a drilling operation are provided. One embodiment of the method includes drilling a borehole, predicting a value of a first parameter relating to the drilling of the borehole using a geomechanical model, estimating a value of a second parameter from measurements taken by a sensor, updating the geomechanical model based at least in part on the estimated value of the second parameter, predicting a second value of the first parameter using the updated geomechanical model, and altering a drilling parameter for drilling the borehole based on the predicted second value of the first parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Andreas G. Sadlier, James Peter Dwyer, Martin O. Brudy, Christopher A. Wolfe, Michael M. Reese
  • Patent number: 7966569
    Abstract: A computerized handbook known as an ‘i-Handbook’ is adapted to be stored in a memory of a computer system and displayed on a display screen of the computer system for assisting field personnel in the performance of their respective job related responsibilities. The ‘i-Handbook’, when displayed, has the appearance of a real handbook and it includes a database and a plurality of calculators for calculating a plurality of oilfield or wellbore related data in response to a first plurality of data in the database and a second plurality of data input by a user. The plurality of calculators are adapted for calculating: unit conversions, triplex pump volumes, tank volumes, tubular stretch and free point, annulus volumes, slurry density, gate percentage, screen out, cement slurry, casing lift, HCL density, oil gravity and API, and salt requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Vibhas Pandey
  • Patent number: 7963327
    Abstract: Methods for accurately assessing the condition of a petroleum reservoir and designing and implementing a plan of action to increase production and recovery of petroleum from the reservoir. Information is gathered using a unique set of metrics and information gathering techniques and analyzed in a targeted fashion by properly weighting the data in the context of the particular reservoir and goals of the producer. A reservoir rating is generated using asymmetric analysis of metrics and then used to formulate a plan of action. Production architecture (e.g., number, location and manner of constructing oil and injector wells) is then constructed according to the plan of action. Reservoir performance can be continuously monitored and used to verify production and recovery goals and/or provide triggers or alarms to alter production equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: QRI Group, LLC
    Inventors: Nansen G. Saleri, Robert M. Toronyi
  • Patent number: 7966166
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for modeling a first reservoir while drilling a wellbore into a corresponding second reservoir, the first reservoir having a plurality of stations, comprising: determining a plurality of values of net present value corresponding, respectively, to the plurality of stations of the first reservoir; and drilling the wellbore into the corresponding second reservoir in accordance with the plurality of values of net present value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventors: R. K. Michael Thambynayagam, Andrew Carnegie, Raj Banerjee, Gregory P. Grove, Luca Ortenzi, Roger Griffiths, Joseph A. Ayoub, Jeff Spath
  • Patent number: 7962288
    Abstract: Methods, computer programs, and systems for detecting at least one downhole condition are disclosed. Forces are measured at a plurality of locations along the drillstring. The drillstring includes a drillpipe. At least one of the forces is measured along the drillpipe. At least one downhole condition is detected based, at least in part, on at least one measured force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel D. Gleitman
  • Patent number: 7962841
    Abstract: A majority voting Viterbi decoder includes a branch metric calculator (BMC) for measuring a difference between a received symbol and a reference symbol and outputting branch metrics from the difference; an add-compare-selection (ACS) unit for determining an optimal path using the branch metrics; a survival path memory unit for outputting decoded symbols by performing decoding based on the optimal path; and a majority voting unit for determining a final decoded symbol by performing majority voting for the decoded symbols output from the survival path memory unit. Accordingly, by adding the majority voting unit, a decoding depth can be reduced without the loss of an encoding gain required in a system, and by reducing the decoding depth, miniaturization is possible, power consumption can be reduced, and a processing delay in a memory can be minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shi-Chang Rho, Jun Jin Kong
  • Patent number: 7958949
    Abstract: A technique for drilling a borehole includes obtaining data from a tool in the borehole for a plurality of positions in the borehole that is being drilled to form acquired data indicative of directional electromagnetic propagation measurements. The technique includes identifying a plurality of distances to a boundary between formations in ground from the plurality of positions in the borehole based on the measurements; identifying a trajectory of the borehole using the plurality of distances; and deciding whether to change the trajectory of the borehole using a change in the plurality of distances between the trajectory and the boundary. The trajectory of the borehole may be changed in both inclination and azimuth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Mohsin Hamed Al Hadhrami
  • Patent number: 7957946
    Abstract: Steering behavior model can include build rate and/or turn rate equations to modal bottom-hole assembly behavior. Build and/or turn rate equations can be calibrated by adjusting model parameters thereof to minimize any variance between actual response 118 and estimated response produced for an interval of the well. Estimated position and orientation 104 of a bottom-hole assembly along a subsequent interval can be generated by inputting subsequent tool settings into the calibrated steering behavior model. Estimated position and orientation 104 can be compared to a well plan 106 with a controller 108 which determines a corrective action 110. Corrective action 110 can be converted from a build and/or turn rate to a set of recommended tool settings 114 by using an inverse application 112 of the steering behavior model. As additional data 118 becomes available, steering behavior model can be further calibrated 102 through iteration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dimitrios K. Pirovolou
  • Patent number: 7957903
    Abstract: A low maintenance adjustable gas trap with a plurality of couplings, each coupling securing to a flow line of a drilling rig; a plurality of hammer unions each engaging a coupling; a plurality of base manifold pipes, each engaging a hammer union; a base manifold flow line engaging the base manifold pipes, a chimney pipe connected to the base manifold flow line with a controllable valve, a reducer connected to the chimney opposite the base manifold flow line; an expansion chamber component connected to the reducer; a restrictor mounted to the expansion chamber component opposite the reducer, wherein the restrictor has a diameter no more than ?rd a diameter of the expansion chamber component; and a conduit connection connected to the restrictor for engaging a conduit to flow a gas sample from the gas trap to a gas analyzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Selman and Associates, Ltd.
    Inventors: Thomas H. Selman, Juanita C. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings, Richard James Gonzales, Brian A. Jennings, Stephen M. Bergman
  • Publication number: 20110130965
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing a drilling fluid includes a vessel having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a pair of opposed impermeable platens disposed within the vessel. The apparatus further includes a test fluid container in fluid communication with the fluid inlet, and a collection container in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. Additionally, the system includes a data acquisition device configured to receive data from at least one of the vessel, the test fluid container, and the collection container. Also, a method for determining sealing characteristics of a drilling fluid includes injecting a test fluid having a fluid loss control material from a test fluid container to a vessel, the vessel having a first impermeable platen and a second impermeable platen with a gap between the two platens. The methods further includes measuring a fracture tip fluid loss through the gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventors: Kenneth Slater, Robert P. Schlemmer
  • Patent number: 7953554
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may include selecting a plurality of signal thresholds T(i)=i*(TMAX/N) for i=2 to N comprising a positive integer greater than one. TMAX may be equal to AMAX/R, where AMAX=a maximum peak amplitude of a signal, such as an acoustic borehole signal, and R=a root-mean-square amplitude of the signal. Applying the plurality of signal thresholds T(i) to the signal to determine a corresponding plurality of peak amplitudes A(i) and signal travel times for selected ones of the plurality of signal thresholds T(i) may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Craig Woerpel, Bruce E. Cornish
  • Patent number: 7937223
    Abstract: A method that uses downhole fluid analysis in order to selectively collect and retain formation fluid samples in a drilling environment, as well as, control drilling using downhole fluid analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Reinhart Ciglenec, Stephane Vannuffelen, Akira Kamiya, Steven G. Villareal, Tsutomu Yamate
  • Publication number: 20110088952
    Abstract: Enhancements to a drill motor include a bearing pack assembly, a balancing piston, a recording transducer package (RTP), and a latch rod assembly for a drill motor to improve performance and reliability of a drill motor. The bearing pack assembly includes a bearing housing coupled to an end cap and a drive shaft extending into the end cap and the bearing housing. The bearing pack assembly also includes a thrust bearing disposed within the bearing housing, wherein the thrust bearing separates the drive shaft and the bearing housing, and a bearing sleeve disposed within the bearing housing, wherein a radial bearing is placed between the bearing sleeve and the drive shaft. The balancing piston includes a first and second hydrodynamic seal. The recording transducer package is self powered and gathers data from a plurality of sensors in the downhole tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: Multi-Shot LLC
    Inventors: Allen Richard Young, Gilbert Villarreal
  • Publication number: 20110067857
    Abstract: A technique includes receiving, during a hydraulic fracturing operation in a subterranean structure, pressure data and fluid injection rate data. One or more properties of the subterranean structure are determined in real-time using the received pressure data and fluid injection rate data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: William UNDERHILL, R.K. Michael THAMBYNAYAGAM, Jeff SPATH, Raj BANERJEE, Amina BOUGHRARA
  • Patent number: 7912647
    Abstract: A system for measuring a true vertical depth of a downhole tool is provided. The system includes: a first optical clock located at a first depth and having a first frequency; a second optical clock disposable at a downhole location and having a second frequency at the downhole location; and a processor for receiving the first frequency and the second frequency, and calculating a true vertical depth of the second optical clock based on a difference between the first frequency and the second frequency. A system and computer program product for measuring a true vertical depth of a downhole tool are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Rocco DiFoggio
  • Patent number: 7912648
    Abstract: A method for imaging a geologic deposit using data collected from a borehole includes: selecting an instrument for performing electromagnetic (EM) measurements, the instrument including at least one transmitter and at least one orthogonally oriented receiver; obtaining EM measurement data from the borehole with the instrument; transforming the EM measurement data to acoustic data; and estimating at least one of a direction and a distance from the instrument to the deposit from the data. A computer program product and a system are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Xiao M. Tang, Tsili Wang
  • Publication number: 20110060527
    Abstract: An apparatus for estimating a rate-of-penetration of a drill bit is provided, which in one embodiment includes a first sensor positioned on a drill bit configured to provide a first measurement of a parameter at a selected location in a formation at a first time, and a second sensor positioned spaced a selected distance from the first sensor to provide a second measurement of the parameter at the selected location at a second time when the drill bit travels downhole. The apparatus may also include a processor configured to estimate the rate-of-penetration using the selected distance and the first and second times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Sorin G. Teodorescu
  • Patent number: 7899622
    Abstract: A method and instrument provide a very detailed symmetric resistivity image of a formation. A first asymmetric resistivity image is collected from a first arrangement of electrodes, which form an asymmetric sensor. A second asymmetric resistivity image is collected from a second arrangement of electrodes, which form an asymmetric sensor. The first image and the second image overlap each other. The images are assembled about a selected reference point and then processed to provide the very detailed symmetric resistivity image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Tsili Wang
  • Patent number: 7895051
    Abstract: A method to form an actual sales value or actual delivery value for all components of a comingled hydrocarbon fluid stream using a theoretical comingled hydrocarbon fluid stream molecular composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: SPL, Inc.
    Inventors: William Joseph Theriot, Mark Reese Brown, Joseph Edward Landes, William Jeffrey Wild, Herman Reese Brown
  • Patent number: 7895052
    Abstract: Computer instructions to instruct a processor to form an actual sales value or actual delivery value for all components of a commingled hydrocarbon fluid stream using mass, volume and energy, to create a theoretical commingled hydrocarbon fluid stream molecular composition and present the information on individual components in the commingled hydrocarbon fluid stream instantaneously to a buyer and a seller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: SPL, Inc.
    Inventors: William Joseph Theriot, Mark Reese Brown, Joseph Edward Landes, William Jeffrey Wild, Herman Reese Brown
  • Patent number: 7894991
    Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product for performing oilfield surveillance operations. The oilfield has a subterranean formation with geological structures and reservoirs therein. The oilfield is divided into a plurality of patterns, with each pattern comprising a plurality of wells. Historical production/injection data is obtained for the plurality of wells. Two independent statistical treatments are performed to achieve a common objective of production optimization. In the first process, wells and/or patterns are characterized based on Heterogeneity Index results and personalities with the ultimate goal of field production optimization. In the second process, the history of the flood is divided into even time increments. At least two domains for each of the plurality of wells are determined. Each of the at least two domains are centered around each of the plurality wells. A first domain of the at least two domains has a first orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Yanil Del Castillo, Joo Sitt Tan, Richard Reese
  • Patent number: 7890307
    Abstract: A method for determining distribution data for a disposal domain parameter to increase assurance in a cuttings injection process, including performing a fracturing simulation using a site specific datum to obtain a fracturing result, determining a probability of creating a new fracture using the fracturing result and a probability model, performing a plurality of fracturing simulations using the probability and a distribution associated with the probability to obtain disposal domain information, and extracting the distribution data for the disposal domain parameter from the disposal domain information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Thomas Geehan, Quanxin Guo
  • Publication number: 20110031016
    Abstract: A collision avoidance system including a plurality of inclinometers in offset wellbores and a processing unit for receiving a vibration signal from the inclinometers and determining a distance between the offset wellbore and a central wellbore based on the vibration signal. Also, a method of avoiding wellbore collisions by determining relative movement of a drill bit within a central wellbore including the steps of determining an original distance between the central wellbore and an offset wellbore, drilling in the central wellbore so that the drill bit moves a known distance with respect to the offset wellbore, capturing vibration readings during the drilling step, characterizing movement of the drill bit based on the drilling step, and calculating drill bit movement during drilling with respect to the offset wellbore based upon the characterizing step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventors: ROSS LOWDON, Ian Farmer
  • Patent number: 7878268
    Abstract: A system for performing a drilling operation for an oilfield. The system includes a drilling system for advancing a drilling tool into a subterranean formation, a repository storing multiple survey factors for at least one wellsite of the oilfield and multiple drilling factors corresponding to at least one section of a planned trajectory of the at least one wellsite, and a processor and memory storing instructions when executed by the processor. The instructions include functionality to configure a drilling model for each of the at least one wellsite based on the plurality of survey factors and the plurality of drilling factors and selectively adjust the drilling model with respect to a plurality of drilling scenarios to generate an optimal drilling plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Clinton Chapman, Chunling Gu Coffman, Yongdong Zeng, Mikhail Gurevich
  • Patent number: 7877211
    Abstract: A method for determining a drilling event includes measuring a first signal from a sensor over a first selected time interval, measuring a second signal from the sensor over a second time interval, determining if a noise is reduced in the second signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Follini, Remi Hutin
  • Patent number: 7866413
    Abstract: Walk characteristics of an earth-boring rotary drill bit may be predicted by measuring locations and orientations of cutting elements thereof and calculating the magnitude and direction of an imbalance force of the drill bit using the measurements obtained. The calculated imbalance force may be compared to the imbalance force of at least one other drill bit having a calculated imbalance force and observed walk characteristics. An earth-boring rotary drill bit may be designed by constructing a database including the magnitude and direction of a calculated imbalance force and observed walk characteristics for a number of drill bits. Desired walk characteristics are selected, the database is referenced, and the bit may be configured to exhibit an imbalance force selected to impart desired walk characteristics to the drill bit. Drill bits are configured to exhibit an imbalance force oriented in a predetermined direction relative to a blade of the drill bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Bruce Stauffer, William H. Heuser, Jim L. Jacobsen
  • Publication number: 20110000713
    Abstract: A method and a system for detecting or measuring influxes of formation water or brine into a drilling fluid being used to drill a borehole through an earth formation are described. The method and system comprising using an electrode based sensor system to determine changes in capacitance and/or conductance of the drilling fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Gerald H. Meeten, Richard H. Mills
  • Patent number: 7860693
    Abstract: Methods and systems may be provided simulating forming a wide variety of directional wellbores including wellbores with variable tilt rates and/or relatively constant tilt rates. The methods and systems may also be used to simulate forming a wellbore in subterranean formations having a combination of soft, medium and hard formation materials, multiple layers of formation materials and relatively hard stringers disposed throughout one or more layers of formation material. Values of bit walk rate from such simulations may be used to design and/or select drilling equipment for use in forming a directional wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Shilin Chen
  • Patent number: 7860593
    Abstract: A prog analysis and execution system and method. The system includes a computer control system, an interface engine in communication with the computer control system, the interface engine being configured to receive prog information, and an action item development engine in communication with the control system, the action item development engine being configured to analyze received prog information and to determine corresponding action items. The system further includes a sensor engine in communication with the computer control system, the sensor engine being configured to receive input from at least one sensor for use in controlling a well drilling operation, and an operational equipment engine in communication with the computer control system, the operational equipment engine being configured to receive input from the computer control system and to control the well drilling operation in accordance with the determined action items in the prog.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventor: Scott Boone
  • Publication number: 20100319992
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method of determining a corrected weight-on-bit is provided, which method, in one embodiment, may include: drilling a wellbore with the drill bit; determining a weight-on-bit while drilling the wellbore; determining a pressure differential across an effective area of the drill bit while drilling the wellbore; and determining the corrected weight-on-bit from the determined weight-on-bit and the determined pressure differential.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Tu Tien Trinh, Eric Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7853045
    Abstract: A novel database and method of classifying and searchably retrieving measurement data derived from a plurality of rock core and plug sample images that are analyzed to define their principal geostatistical attributes and characteristics, with the resulting analytical data being retrievably stored in a database, the method including calculating spatial variability of images, such as CT scan images, porosity images and other types of available images, quantifying the main image characteristics utilizing multi-azimuth variograms and simplified pattern recognition based on the histogram and variography analysis to thereby provide a means to correlate data from various geographical regions or fields by analyzing data which has the same variographic parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Mustafa Touati, Shameem Siddiqui, Taha Mostafa Hamed Okasha
  • Publication number: 20100307825
    Abstract: An excavation device (1) and profile analysis of the excavation includes a device (1) realizing excavations of prismatic shape and having a frame (3) and a plurality of excavation wheels (2). The frame (3) includes a first upper section (3c), a second intermediate section (3b) and a third lower section (3a. The excavation wheels (2) are positioned at least within said third section (3a). Sensors (4) carry out the measurement of the section and/or the shape of said excavation; the sensors of measure (4) are directed towards the walls of said excavation and measure the profile of said excavation on at least two opposite walls. A method of analysis of a shape and/or a section of an excavation of prismatic shape in the soil includes excavation of the soil through a device (1) having a frame (3) and a plurality of excavation wheels (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: Soilmec S.p.A.
    Inventor: Maurizio Siepi
  • Patent number: 7848887
    Abstract: A system and method to determine directional measurements for a drilling tool that at times rotates and at other times does not rotate. The method includes making a first set of measurements when the apparatus is rotating, making a second set of measurements when the apparatus is not rotating, and combining the first and second sets of measurements to obtain the directional measurements. The system includes a transmitter-receiver pair wherein the transmitter has a magnetic dipole moment parallel to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus and the receiver has a magnetic dipole moment that is tilted relative to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, an electronics module to excite the transmitter and detect a receiver signal to make a first and second set of measurements when the apparatus is rotating and not rotating, and a processor to combine the first and second sets of measurements to obtain the directional measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jian Yang, Qiming Li
  • Publication number: 20100300756
    Abstract: Downhole magnetic measurement devices and methods are provided for estimation of magnetic fields during drilling. In certain embodiments, a triaxial vector magnetometer is provided and affixed to a drill string subassembly. While the drill string subassembly is rotating, as during drilling operations, an average total magnetic field value (BTwR) is determined as an average of the instantaneous vector magnitudes of the three measured orthogonal component magnetic fields. In this way, near-bit estimates of the downhole magnetic field may be obtained and used for a variety of functions. These downhole magnetic measurement devices may be useful determining magnetic fields, and estimating borehole inclination and azimuth of drill string subassemblies during drilling operations. Additionally, downhole magnetic measurement devices may be used for detecting the presence and distance to external ferromagnetic materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Neil W. Smith Bergstrom, James N. Towle, Matthew A. White
  • Publication number: 20100305864
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for assessing the location of a drill bit underground. The apparatus includes an acoustic sound generator that is driven by the drilling mud supplied to the drill bit. The sound generator a characteristic string of pulses, which may be termed a signature or key. The key is repeated over and over. Monitors (i.e., sensors) at the surface listen for this key. The key is distorted by the inconstant angular velocity of the drill bit. Thus the observed data do not precisely match the key. On the basis of numerical algorithms, a digitally revised reference signal or key, is identified to map the known reference key onto the best fitting observed data. The correction factors are then applied to map the modified reference key onto the data observed at other sensors of an array of sensors mounted on the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Paul D. Gies
  • Patent number: 7844400
    Abstract: A low maintenance adjustable system for sampling gas from a well using a gas analyzer; a conditioning and filtering device; a gas trap having a plurality of couplings, a plurality of hammer unions, a plurality of base manifold pipes, a base manifold flow line, a chimney pipe connected to the base manifold flow line, a controllable valve, a reducer connected to the chimney, an expansion chamber component connected to the reducer, a restrictor mounted to the expansion chamber component, and a conduit connection connected to the restrictor for engaging a conduit to flow a gas sample from the gas trap to a gas analyzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Selman and Associates, Ltd.
    Inventors: Thomas H. Selman, Juanita C. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings, Richard James Gonzales, Brian A. Jennings, Stephen M. Bergman
  • Publication number: 20100283469
    Abstract: One exemplary embodiment of a method for making directional resistivity measurements includes transmitting an axial electromagnetic wave in a borehole and receiving substantially pure axial and transverse components of the wave. A ratio of the axial and transverse components is computed and may be utilized as an indicator of various formation parameters. The invention advantageously enables the moment of the transmitting antenna to be canceled and therefore can result in improved accuracy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Tsili Wang
  • Publication number: 20100286916
    Abstract: A method for making directional resistivity measurements and forming a directional resistivity image of a subterranean formation includes processing a plurality of directional resistivity measurements and corresponding azimuth angles to calculate a first order harmonic representation at selected azimuth angles. A two dimensional borehole image may be formed by repeating the procedure at multiple measured depths in the borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventor: Tsili Wang
  • Publication number: 20100282510
    Abstract: Drill bits and methods of measuring drill bit conditions are disclosed. A drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation comprises a bit bearing at least one cutting element and adapted for coupling to a drill string. The drill bit may also comprise a chamber formed within the bit and configured for maintaining a pressure substantially near a surface atmospheric pressure while drilling the subterranean formation. In addition, the drill bit may comprise at least one optical sensor disposed in the chamber and configured for sensing at least one physical parameter exhibited by the drill bit while drilling a subterranean formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Eric C. Sullivan, Tu Tien Trinh
  • Publication number: 20100283470
    Abstract: A method for making directional resistivity measurements includes sequentially transmitting first and second axial and transverse electromagnetic waves in a borehole and receiving substantially pure axial and transverse components of each of the transmitted waves. A composite ratio of the received components is computed and may be utilized as an indicator of various formation parameters. The invention advantageously provides for the acquisition of compensated directional resistivity measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher C. Streinz, Tsili Wang