Fluid Flow Measuring Or Fluid Analysis Patents (Class 73/152.18)
  • Publication number: 20090007650
    Abstract: A method for wellsite verification of properties of a fluid may include providing a fluid delivery system at the wellsite; providing at least one reference meter at the wellsite; and measuring the property of the fluid within the fluid delivery system, using the reference meter. The measuring step may be performed prior to or during dispatch of the fluid into a well bore. The reference meter may be a high precision meter. An apparatus for wellsite verification of at least one property of at least one fluid may include a fluid delivery system and at least one reference meter for measuring the property of the fluid within the fluid delivery system. The fluid delivery system and the reference meter may both be located at the wellsite. A trailer may support the fluid delivery system and the reference meter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Douglas Hayworth
  • Patent number: 7465426
    Abstract: A tank is fed with mud via a first inlet and the mud is removed via a first outlet. An ultrasonic electroacoustic transducer generates an acoustic energy field in the mud contained in the tank so as to extract the gases from the mud. A carrier gas is injected via a second inlet of the tank and a physico-chemical analysis apparatus of the extracted gases is connected to a second outlet of the tank designed for the carrier gas and the extracted gases. The flow rate of mud fed to the tank is regulated to a constant value and the volume of mud in the tank is constant. The mud can be constituted by oil prospecting drilling mud, the gases to be extracted then being oil revealing gases. The mud feed and injection of carrier gas can be synchronized so as to enable continuous analysis or batch analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Geolog S.p.A.
    Inventors: Joseph Kerherve, Nicolas Lhermet
  • Patent number: 7458258
    Abstract: A method for determining properties of a formation fluid is provided and includes: obtaining fluid data related to Carbon-Hydrogen molecular bonds in C6+ from a fluid analyzer; and considering the fluid data to calculate mass fractions of hydrocarbon flowing through the fluid analyzer. The method further includes computing gas-oil-ratio of hydrocarbon based on the mass fractions of hydrocarbon. Another method for determining a gas-oil-ratio of a formation fluid includes: obtaining fluid data related to Carbon-Hydrogen molecular bonds in C6+ from a fluid analyzer; considering the fluid data to derive mass fractions of gas and oil; and computing gas-oil-ratio of hydrocarbon based on the derived mass fractions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: ChengGang Xian, Andrew Carnegie, ChengLi Dong, Oliver C. Mullins, Go Fujisawa
  • Publication number: 20080277573
    Abstract: A sensor system includes a carrier configured for a specific application; an electronics module mountable in a number of individual carriers; a feedthrough mountable in a number of individual carriers and in operable communication with the interface; a sensor mounting mountable in a number of individual carriers and in operable communication with the feedthrough; and a sensor array articulated to the sensor mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: IAIN M. MACLEAN
  • Publication number: 20080236253
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus to measure flow of a drilling fluid composition include a test housing including a test matrix located between an inlet and an outlet, a test valve connected between the inlet of the test housing and a fluid reservoir, and a pressure assembly configured to apply pressure to drilling fluid contained in the fluid reservoir. The apparatus and methods further include a sample valve connected to the outlet of the test housing and a measurement device configured to measure a filtrate fluid flowing through the outlet. A method to measure flow of a drilling fluid includes measuring an amount of filtrate fluid flowing through the test matrix as a function of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: M-I LLC
    Inventors: Mostafa Ahmadi Tehrani, Jacqueline Joan Cameron
  • Publication number: 20080230220
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing a rheological property of a fluid with a particulate includes: (a) a receptacle having a cylindrical side wall enclosed by a bottom wall defining a cavity for receiving a fluid to be tested; (b) an axial support adapted to be positioned in the cavity of the receptacle, whereby relative rotational motion can be imparted to the receptacle and the axial support; (c) at least one inward projection extending inward from an inside surface of the receptacle; (d) at least one outward projection extending outward from the axial support; and (e) at least one projection for directing fluid flow that has at least one major surface angled or curved upward. A method of testing a rheological property of a fluid with a particulate includes: (a) placing a sample of the fluid and the particulate in the apparatus; (b) imparting relative rotational motion to the receptacle and the axial support; and (c) measuring the torque between the receptacle and the axial support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Rickey L. Morgan, Johnny W. Johnson, Ronnie G. Morgan, Harold G. Walters
  • Patent number: 7418865
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for determining the velocity of an ultrasound pulse in drilling fluids in downhole environments. A method for determining a velocity of ultrasound propagation in a drilling fluid in a downhole environment includes emitting an ultrasound pulse into the drilling fluid in a borehole using a first ultrasound transducer (37); detecting the ultrasound pulse after the ultrasound pulse has traveled a distance (d); determining a travel time (t) required for the ultrasound pulse to travel the distance (d); and determining the velocity of ultrasound propagation from the known distance (d) and the travel time (t).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Roger Griffiths, Miguel Pabon
  • Publication number: 20080190190
    Abstract: A method and computer program product of either preventing or minimizing pore pressure increase near the wellbore wall within argillaceous formations through which a borehole has been drilled. By interpreting relevant drilling experience data, the type, extent and time-dependency of wellbore instability mechanisms are determined. The impact of drilling mud designs on the time-dependent wellbore instability and hole enlargement is determined by back-analyzing observed drilling events. At least one field-based criterion relationship between net mud weight reduction percentage ratio and hole enlargement is determined. A maximum allowable percentage ratio(s) of net mud weight reduction and either breakout mud weight or mud weight used for the adopted maximum hole enlargement that the wellbore may experience during drilling is determined. Drilling mud salinity value and salt type to satisfy maximum allowable percentage ratio(s) is then determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Chee Phuat Tan, Magdalena Povstyanova
  • Publication number: 20080173075
    Abstract: An apparatus for automated fluid rheology measurement includes a probe, a torque tube engaging an inner cylinder of the probe, a motor that drives the inner cylinder, and a circuit board programmed to drive the motor at variable shear rates in a time-dependent manner. A method of continual automated fluid rheology measurement uses an automated viscometer for measuring fluid rheology at differing shear rates. The method involves (1) obtaining and storing data at the differing shear rates, (2) calculating fluid rheology values, and repeating these steps until a user-determined endpoint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Steven W. Dale
  • Patent number: 7395691
    Abstract: A process to analyze fluid entrained in well boreholes. The process includes gathering trap gas samples from return of drilling mud at multiple depths. The process also includes the steps of subjecting the samples to mass spectrometry in order to determine mass to charge ratios data of hydrocarbons and analyzing the mass to charge ratios data in relation to depth or time. Samples from at least one other source may also be gathered and analyzed chosen from the group consisting of mud fluid analysis, cuttings backgrounds analysis and cuttings crush analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Fluid Inclusion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Michael Sterner, Donald Lewis Hall, Wells Shentwu
  • Publication number: 20080156088
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods to monitor contamination levels in a formation fluid arc disclosed. An example method involves obtaining first property data indicative of a first fluid property of a formation fluid and second property data indicative of a second fluid property of the formation fluid. A correlation between the first and second property data is generated and third data is fitted to the correlation. A fitting parameter is determined based on the third data indicative of an amount of change of the first property data relative to an amount of change of the second property data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kai Hsu, Peter S. Hegeman, Chengli Dong, Ricardo Vasques
  • Patent number: 7393689
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus or system for determining an amount of coal tar that can enter, and subsequently be displaced from, a given type of soil for a range of depths of the soil. The method and apparatus also provide verification of the pressure at which coal tar can be displaced from a given type of soil. In particular, the method and apparatus simulate the hydrostatic pressure that a soil sample encounters in the subsurface of the ground. Accordingly, the method and apparatus provide a relationship between the concentration of coal tar in the soil and the pressure required to displace the coal tar from the soil, which allows for an estimation of the amount of coal tar that may be displaced at a particular location or site. Further, the method and apparatus are adaptable for use in the laboratory or the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Lehigh University
    Inventors: Horace Keith Moo-Young, Derick Gerdts Brown, Andrew J. Coleman
  • Publication number: 20080134774
    Abstract: A production logging tool for measuring at least one property of a surrounding fluid in a wellbore, comprising a shaft and a rotatable member coupled to the shaft, the rotatable member comprising a sensor component, the arrangement being such that on rotation of the member the sensor moves in a path transverse to the length of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gary Martin Oddie
  • Publication number: 20080134775
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for obtaining downhole well pressure during wellbore operations. One method comprises providing a well intervention tool comprising a straddle sealing assembly having upper and lower annulus sealing elements and a fluid injection port positioned therebetween, the well intervention tool comprising a fluid injection bore having positioned therein a pressure measurement tool; placing the tool in straddle position about a wellbore region to be intervened, with the pressure measurement tool fluidly connected to a wellbore region below the lower annulus sealing element; and performing the wellbore intervention operation while communicating fluid from below the lower annulus sealing element to the pressure measurement tool, thus obtaining a pressure measurement below the lower annulus sealing element during the wellbore intervention operation. This abstract will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Douglas Pipchuk, Michael H. Kenison
  • Patent number: 7377169
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for acoustically analyzing a fluid sample and determining one or more properties of the sample are disclosed by the present invention. The apparatus comprises a chamber, a transmitter positioned within the chamber for transmitting an acoustic signal through the fluid, a reflector movably positioned within the fluid inside the chamber for reflecting the acoustic signal, and a receiver positioned within the chamber for detecting reflections of the acoustic signal. The methods employ the use of a transmitter, a reflector movably positioned within the fluid inside the chamber, and a receiver to characterize the fluid sample based on one or more of its acoustic properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Michael Tolbert Myers, Donald Keith Love, Willem J. M. Epping, Mohamed Naguib Hashem
  • Publication number: 20080115574
    Abstract: A system for testing an underground formation penetrated by a well includes a downhole tool that is configured to be coupled to a work string and that includes an outer surface, a connection for coupling a stabilizing sub to the downhole tool, and at least one portion configured to receive a frame. The system further includes a plurality of stabilizing subs that are configured to be coupled to the downhole tool, a plurality of frames configured to be detachably mounted on the at least one portion of the downhole tool, and at least one measuring device configured to be secured in at least one of the plurality of frames.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: DALE MEEK
  • Publication number: 20080088464
    Abstract: An architecture to supply electrical operating power in fluid flow measurement applications, apparatus and associated systems, computer program products, and methods include a receiver tunable to various radio frequencies to capture radio frequency (RF) energy that may be used to supply regulated voltage to electronic fluid flow measurement data processing circuitry. In an example implementation, the power module searches for at least one RF signal that contains substantial energy. The received energy may be converted to a rectified waveform. The converted energy may be, for example, used to supply operating power to circuits in the fluid flow measurement circuitry, and/or it may be stored, such as in a capacitor or in a battery. Preferred embodiments may store signal strength information for one or more frequencies in at least one range of frequencies, and may tune the receiver to a frequency selected from the stored frequency information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventor: Francisco M. Gutierrez
  • Patent number: 7350409
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for recovering magnetically attractable wellbore casing fragments from drilling fluid used in hydrocarbon-producing formations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Darrell Clarry Klatt
  • Publication number: 20080066537
    Abstract: Methods for performing downhole fluid compatibility tests include obtaining an downhole fluid sample, mixing it with a test fluid, and detecting a reaction between the fluids. Tools for performing downhole fluid compatibility tests include a plurality of fluid chambers, a reversible pump and one or more sensors capable of detecting a reaction between the fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Peter S. Hegeman, Anthony R. H. Goodwin, Moin Muhammad, Ricardo Vasques, Cosan Ayan, Michael O'Keefe, Tsutomu Yamate
  • Patent number: 7328624
    Abstract: A probe 10,170 is provided that measures the speed of sound and/or vortical disturbances propagating in a single phase fluid flow and/or multiphase mixture to determine parameters, such as mixture quality, particle size, vapor/mass ratio, liquid/vapor ratio, mass flow rate, enthalpy and volumetric flow rate of the flow in a pipe or unconfined space, for example, using acoustic and/or dynamic pressures. The probe includes a spatial array of unsteady pressure sensors 15-18 placed at predetermined axial locations x1-xN disposed axially along a tube 14. For measuring at least one parameter of a saturated vapor/liquid mixture 12, such as steam, flowing in the tube 14. The pressure sensors 15-18 provide acoustic pressure signals P1(t)-PN(t) to a signal processing unit 30 which determines the speed of sound amix propagating through of the saturated vapor/liquid mixture 12 in the tube 14 using acoustic spatial array signal processing techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: CIDRA Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel L. Gysling, Douglas H. Loose, Thomas W. Engel, Paul F. Croteau
  • Patent number: 7308391
    Abstract: A method and system for providing hydraulic modelers with the ability to accurately produce a surface representation of flow data that incorporates transitional elements in the underlying gravity hydraulic network is provided. The method includes triangulating surface techniques and smooth surface techniques that employ functions that enforce rules that preserve monotonicity as well as to preserve Q=0 when TW=HW. The value of Q can be calculated as well as the partial derivatives in the TW and HW directions for a point of interest. A smooth surface interpolation of the data, which maintains the above-noted conditions, and allows the quick evaluation of flow for any point in the data set, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Bentley Systems, Incorporated
    Inventors: Ming Jin, Jack S. Cook, Jr., Samuel R. Coran, John A. Roulier, Michael K. Glazner
  • Patent number: 7240730
    Abstract: A system to determine the mixture of fluids in the deviated section of a wellbore comprising at least one distributed temperature sensor adapted to measure the temperature profile along at least two levels of a vertical axis of the deviated section. Each distributed temperature sensor can be a fiber optic line functionally connected to a light source that may utilize optical time domain reflectometry to measure the temperature profile along the length of the fiber line. The temperature profiles at different positions along the vertical axis of the deviated wellbore enables the determination of the cross-sectional distribution of fluids flowing along the deviated section. Together with the fluid velocity of each of the fluids flowing along the deviated section, the cross-sectional fluid distribution enables the calculation of the flow rates of each of the fluids. The system may also be used in conjunction with a pipeline, such as a subsea pipeline, to determine the flow rates of fluids flowing therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Glynn R Williams, Kevin J Forbes, Arthur H Hartog, Christian Koeniger, George A Brown
  • Patent number: 7210342
    Abstract: A process to analyze fluid entrained in well boreholes. The process includes gathering trap gas samples from return of drilling mud at multiple depths. The process also includes the steps of subjecting the samples to mass spectrometry in order to determine mass to charge ratios data of hydrocarbons and analyzing the mass to charge ratios data in relation to depth or time. Samples from at least one other source may also be gathered and analyzed chosen from the group consisting of mud fluid analysis, cuttings backgrounds analysis and cuttings crush analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Fluid Inclusion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Michael Sterner, Donald Lewis Hall, Wells Shentwu
  • Patent number: 7168311
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and characterizing the fluid flow in and around the tubing string in a wellbore, preferably using fiber optic componentry. The apparatus includes a signal sensing demodulator device and a skin friction sensing device positionable within the wellbore. Both devices are in informational communication with each other. The method includes exposing the skin friction sensing device to a fluid flow, transmitting a signal obtained as a result of a movement of the skin friction sensing device from the fluid flow to a signal sensing demodulator device, converting the signal to a numerical value, and computing a parameter or parameters of the fluid flow in the wellbore from the numerical value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Edward J. Zisk, Jr., Terry Bussear
  • Patent number: 7168310
    Abstract: A novel process and methodology in deterministic formation evaluation is provided. The formation evaluation results can accurately quantify formation attributes, such as clay-volume, clay-bound-water, effective-porosity and water saturation in shaly sands. Total-porosity is determined using porosity-logs, such as density, neutron and sonic logs. After clay-volume and total-porosity are determined, sand volume (quartz, feldspar, mica . . . ) is the remaining part in the bulk formation evaluated, see FIG. 5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Saudi Aramco
    Inventor: Saleh Al-Ruwaili
  • Patent number: 7158887
    Abstract: A method of assuring the collection of reliable and quality fluid sample includes the steps of acquiring a fluid sample at a point of acquisition, analyzing physical and chemical properties of the fluid sample at the point of acquisition; recording the point of acquisition sample properties in an electronic database archive, analyzing physical and chemical properties of the fluid sample at a location remote from the point of acquisition, recording the remote location sample properties in the archive, validating the fluid sample through comparison of the point of acquisition sample properties and the remote location sample properties and recording the validated sample properties in the archive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Soraya Sofia Betancourt, Oliver C. Mullins, Ahmed Hammami, John Allan Nighswander, Peter S. Hegeman, John Ratulowski, Moin Muhammad, Raymond G. Kennedy, Chengli Dong, Erwan Olliero
  • Patent number: 7129704
    Abstract: A well (10) for producing water is characterized in that it includes a network of widely spaced electrodes (8) electrically coupled with measurement means (3) or with electric current generation means (1). By utilizing a measurement result, the progression of a salt water front heading for the well (10) may be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Delhomme, Christian Jennevin, Philippe Souhaite, Eric Veignat
  • Patent number: 7110920
    Abstract: Improved water monitoring systems comprise a test unit having an analytical device and a control system in communication with the test unit such that water supply data generated at the test unit can be communicated to the control system. In some embodiments, the analytical device can be a fluorometer that can monitor the fluorescence induction pattern of algae located in the water, which can indicate, when the induction pattern is compared against known baseline induction patterns, the potential presence of toxic chemicals located in the water supply. In other embodiments, the analytical device can comprise, for example, a pH meter, an infrared spectroscopy (IR) device or the like. In some embodiments, the test unit can provide continuous intake, analysis, and can communicate water supply data to the control system via a wireless communication device, fiber optic cable or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P.
    Inventors: Steven M. McCarter, Ronald W. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 7069775
    Abstract: A borehole caliper tool includes a tool body, a bow spring flexibly coupled to the tool body, a target coupled to the bow spring, and an ultrasonic transducer coupled to the tool body, wherein in operation the ultrasonic transducer transmits an acoustic pulse to the target and receives an echo of the acoustic pulse from the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Fredette, Scott Ritter, Wade D. DuPree, Miguel F. Pabon
  • Patent number: 7059180
    Abstract: A method of measuring a water effect on an underground non-water well includes the steps of assembling a history of water cut (WC) measurements for the well over an extended period of time, determining a water cut rate of change (R) for the well based upon the history of water cut measurements, wherein the water cut rate of change is defined as follows: ? ( WC ) ? ( t ) = R , and identifying whether an anomaly exists based on the determined R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Abdulla H. Al-Ghamdi
  • Patent number: 7037724
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for transporting blended crude oils comprising the steps of; (a) admixing a first crude oil with a second, different crude oil to form a crude oil admixture; (b) determining a first value representing the content of unprecipitated asphaltenes in the admixture; (c) holding the admixture for a period of time at standard conditions; (d) determining a second value representing the content of unprecipitated asphaltenes in the admixture; and (e) either: (i) transporting the admixture if the second value is the same as or within a predetermined range of the first value; or (ii) taking remedial action to prevent asphaltene precipitation prior to transporting if the second value is outside a predetermined range from the first value. Also disclosed is a method for estimating the storage stability of stored crude oils and crude oil admixtures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Joseph L. Stark, C. Mitch Means
  • Patent number: 7032444
    Abstract: This invention concerns a module for extracting samples in gas phase of compounds present in an underground working liquid, the extractor module including a receptacle for the liquid, associated with a device for stirring the liquid, a liquid inlet duct, a liquid evacuation duct, an auxiliary gas admission duct, and an outlet duct for delivering auxiliary gas and gas extracted from the liquid. The auxiliary gas admission duct and the evacuation duct include a common segment, for preventing the auxiliary gas from passing is provided in the evacuation duct downstream from the common segment in the liquid-passing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Geoservices
    Inventors: Jérôme Breviere, Jean-François Evrard
  • Patent number: 7028772
    Abstract: The treatment well tiltmeter system comprises one or more tiltmeter assemblies which are located within an active treatment well. The treatment well tiltmeter system provides data from the downhole tiltmeters, and can be used to map hydraulic fracture growth or other subsurface processes from the collected downhole tilt data versus time. The system provides tilt data inversion of data from each of the treatment well tiltmeter assemblies, and provides isolation of data signals from noise associated with the treatment well environment. As well, the treatment well tiltmeter system provides geomechanical modeling for treatment well processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Pinnacle Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Wright, Eric Davis, James Ward, Eitienne Samson, Gang Wang, Larry Griffin, Sharon Demetrius, Kevin Fisher
  • Patent number: 7013723
    Abstract: The effects of storage on the interpretation of data obtained at observation probes of a borehole tool are eliminated by controlling the storage volumes relative to the observation probes. For a homogeneous medium, the effect of storage on the interpretation of data is eliminated by causing the flow line volumes connected to each observation probe to be equal to each other. For a heterogeneous medium, the effect of storage on the interpretation of data is eliminated by causing the flow line volumes to vary in proportion to the relative permeabilities of the strata of the heterogeneous medium adjacent the probes. The borehole tool is provided with mechanisms for conducting flow line volume adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Terizhandur S. Ramakrishnan, Syed Tariq, Thomas H. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 7004020
    Abstract: A system and method for profiling and modifying fluid flow through a wellbore. The system comprises a logging system, a downhole unit, and a deployment system. The logging system comprises a logging tool. The downhole unit is operable to house the logging tool. In addition, the downhole unit is operable to selectively secure a retrievable fluid barrier within a wellbore casing. The deployment system is operable to deploy the downhole unit in the wellbore casing. The method comprises deploying the downhole unit into the wellbore and securing the retrievable fluid barrier below a first group of perforations. The method also comprises operating the logging tool to detect a wellbore fluid parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Schrenkel, Terry E. Hix, Arthur M. Bedgood, Christopher Patrick Brown, Albert G. Ollre IV
  • Patent number: 6997256
    Abstract: A system to determine the mixture of fluids in the deviated section of a wellbore comprising at least one distributed temperature sensor adapted to measure the temperature profile along at least two levels of a vertical axis of the deviated section. Each distributed temperature sensor can be a fiber optic line functionally connected to a light source that may utilize optical time domain reflectometry to measure the temperature profile along the length of the fiber line. The temperature profiles at different positions along the vertical axis of the deviated wellbore enables the determination of the cross-sectional distribution of fluids flowing along the deviated section. Together with the fluid velocity of each of the fluids flowing along the deviated section, the cross-sectional fluid distribution enables the calculation of the flow rates of each of the fluids. The system may also be used in conjunction with a pipeline, such as a subsea pipeline, to determine the flow rates of fluids flowing therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Sensor Highway Limited
    Inventors: Glynn R Williams, Kevin J Forbes, Arthur H Hartog, Christian Koeniger, George A Brown
  • Patent number: 6995677
    Abstract: A system for monitoring at least one parameter of interest relating to a flow conduit having a through passage and a fluid flow therein comprises at least one measurement station coupled to the flow conduit for taking a measurement relating to the parameter of interest. An interrogation device is adapted to move proximate the measurement station and to transmit a first signal to the measurement station, and to receive a second signal from the measurement station relating to the parameter of interest. The measurement station receives power from the first signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Peter S. Aronstam, Colin N. Morrison
  • Patent number: 6957573
    Abstract: A Vadose Zone Water Fluxmeter (WFM) or Direct Measurement WFM provides direct measurement of unsaturated water flow in the vadose zone. The fluxmeter is a cylindrical device that fits in a borehole or can be installed near the surface, or in pits, or in pile structures. The fluxmeter is primarily a combination of tensiometers and a porous element or plate in a water cell that is used for water injection or extraction under field conditions. The same water pressure measured outside and inside of the soil sheltered by the lower cylinder of the fluxmeter indicates that the water flux through the lower cylinder is similar to the water flux in the surrounding soil. The fluxmeter provides direct measurement of the water flow rate in the unsaturated soils and then determines the water flux, i.e. the water flow rate per unit area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Boris A. Faybishenko
  • Patent number: 6938469
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for downhole determination of the resistivity of fluids from formations surrounding an earth borehole, including the following steps: providing a formation testing logging device that includes a coil and a flow line passing axially through the coil; determining a reference quality factor of the coil; positioning the formation testing device in the borehole, and causing formation fluid to flow through the flow line; measuring the quality factor of the coil with formation fluid in the flow line; and determining the resistivity of the formation fluid in the flow line as a function of the measured quality factor and the reference quality factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Krishnamurthy Ganesan
  • Patent number: 6938497
    Abstract: An acoustic flow meter in the form of a valve key has an acoustic sensor 12 for measuring the peak sound level which occurs when the key is used to close a valve in a fluid pipeline. The peak sound level can be used to accurately calculate the flow through the valve and provide the flow information on a display unit 11. Parameters for the upstream supply pressure, pipe diameter and valve characteristics can be entered to ensure the accuracy of the flow calculations. The key therefore provides a way of determining fluid flow in a pipeline to a reasonable level of accuracy without having to install in-line flow meters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: RPS Water Services Limited
    Inventor: Arthur Arscott
  • Patent number: 6904797
    Abstract: A system and method for profiling and modifying fluid flow through a wellbore. The system comprises a logging system, a downhole unit, and a deployment system. The logging system comprises a logging tool. The downhole unit is operable to house the logging tool. In addition, the downhole unit is operable to selectively secure a retrievable fluid barrier within a wellbore casing. The deployment system is operable to deploy the downhole unit in the wellbore casing. The method comprises deploying the downhole unit into the wellbore and securing the retrievable fluid barrier below a first group of perforations. The method also comprises operating the logging tool to detect a wellbore fluid parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Schrenkel, Terry E. Hix, Arthur M. Bedgood, Christopher Patrick Brown, Albert G. Ollre, IV
  • Patent number: 6893874
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for transporting blended crude oils comprising the steps of; (a) admixing a first crude oil with a second, different crude oil to form a crude oil admixture; (b) determining a first value representing the content of unprecipitated asphaltenes in the admixture; (c) holding the admixture for a period of time at standard conditions; (d) determining a second value representing the content of unprecipitated asphaltenes in the admixture; and (e) either: (i) transporting the admixture if the second value is the same as or within a predetermined range of the first value; or (ii) taking remedial action to prevent asphaltene precipitation prior to transporting if the second value is outside a predetermined range from the first value. Also disclosed is a method for estimating the storage stability of stored crude oils and crude oil admixtures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Joseph L. Stark, C. Mitch Means
  • Patent number: 6891477
    Abstract: A system for monitoring at least one parameter of interest relating to a flow conduit having a through passage and a fluid flow therein comprises at least one measurement station coupled to the flow conduit for taking a measurement relating to the parameter of interest. An interrogation device is adapted to move proximate the measurement station and to transmit a first signal to the measurement station, and to receive a second signal from the measurement station relating to the parameter of interest. The measurement station receives power from the first signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Aronstam
  • Patent number: 6886409
    Abstract: A system is described for controlling the flow of a sample fluid through a substrate having first and second surfaces and at least one area with a plurality of through-going capillary channels. The system comprises a housing having a chamber for receiving the substrate and a pressure differential generator capable of generating and maintaining a pressure difference over the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: PamGene International B.V.
    Inventor: Wilhelmus Marinus Carpay
  • Patent number: 6871713
    Abstract: A formation test tool and methods are described that enable sampling and measurements of parameters of fluids contained in a borehole while reducing the time required for taking such samples and measurements and reducing the risk of formation damage due to sampling induced pressure spikes. The tool has a quick response control system for controlling a fluid transfer device in response to fluid pressure near a sampling port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Matthias Meister, Sven Krueger
  • Patent number: 6873267
    Abstract: The invention provides apparatus and methods for monitoring and controlling hydrocarbon production wells and/or injection wells from a remote location. The apparatus for monitoring and controlling one or more hydrocarbon production wells or injection wells from a remote location comprises one or more surface control and data acquisition systems; one or more sensors disposed in communication with the one or more control and data acquisition systems; one or more downhole flow control devices disposed in communication with the one or more control and data acquisition systems; and one or more remote controllers disposed in communication with the one or more control and data acquisition systems. Preferably, the remote controller comprises a computer having an internet access disposed in communication with the one or more control and data acquisition systems through a communication device comprising an internet web site server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Tubel, Mark Crawford, Henning Hansen, Rolv Arne Flaaten
  • Patent number: 6843119
    Abstract: For collecting data from a water well, down-hole sensors are housed in modules. The modules are arranged to be screwed together in-line to form a vertical string. Mechanically, the modules are secured to each other only by the screw connection. Data is transmitted to the surface on a 2-wire cable, there being no other electrical connection between the modules and the surface. The modules are connected in multi-drop configuration to the 2-wire cable. Data is transmitted using time-division multiplexing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Solinst Canada Limited
    Inventors: Ronald Ernest Russell Patey, Douglas James Belshaw
  • Patent number: 6840091
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of calculating non-aqueous phase liquid saturation in a soil sample including the steps of measuring the bulk dielectric constant of the sample, measuring the bulk density of the sample, estimating the bulk porosity of the sample from the measured bulk density and calculating the non-aqueous phase liquid saturation from the measured bulk dielectric constant and the estimated bulk porosity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventor: Mark T. Stewart
  • Patent number: 6834560
    Abstract: Described are clips for collecting sensors into multi-sensor arrays for insertion into well and the like. The clips are adapted to easily receive the sensors and provide a lock for securing the sensors once installed. The clips can be adapted for use with elements other than sensors, in particular for applications in which a number of relatively elongated members are to be secured in parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Phionics, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Brundage
  • Patent number: 6832515
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining at least one downhole formation property is disclosed. The apparatus includes a probe and a pretest piston positionable in fluid communication with the formation, and a series of flowlines pressure gauges, and valves configured to selectively draw into the apparatus for measurement of one of formation fluid and mud. The method includes performing a first pretest to determine an estimated formation parameter; using the first pretest to design a second pretest and generate refined formation parameters whereby formation properties may be estimated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Follini, Julian Pop