Rate Of Fluid Flow Patents (Class 73/152.29)
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Publication number: 20110214488Abstract: Colloidal-crystal quantum dots as tracers are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a method comprises injecting a solution of quantum dots into a subterranean formation, and monitoring a flow of the quantum dots from the subterranean formation to determine a property of the subterranean formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2011Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: Peter E. Rose, Michael H. Bartl
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Publication number: 20110214498Abstract: A flow rate device for measuring the flow rate of a fluid flowing through a wellbore is disclosed. The flow rate device includes a differential pressure conduit, a flow restrictor insert and a differential pressure measurement device. The differential pressure conduit is locatable in the wellbore, defines an internal bore, and is adapted to include a restriction having a cross-sectional area to increase the velocity of fluid flowing through the differential pressure conduit to create a differential pressure. The differential pressure conduit defining first and second pressure measuring stations axially spaced along the differential pressure conduit. The flow restrictor insert is located in the restriction to reduce the cross-sectional area of the restriction. The flow restrictor insert defines an internal bore having a cross-sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of the restriction. The flow restrictor insert also has a pressure measuring port aligned with the second pressure measuring station.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2010Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: Fadhel Rezgui, Gilles Roux, Robert Ingham, Jim Filas, Yves Manin, Eric Donzier
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Publication number: 20110197667Abstract: A flow meter to be used in a hole drilled in the bedrock for measuring stream flows in bedrock fractures which are transversal to the hole. The flow meter comprises an elongated body having a cross section which is substantially smaller than the diameter of the hole; separating members placed at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction of the body for separating the examined section from the other parts of the hole in a substantially pressure-tight manner; dividing members for dividing the examined section into two sectors in the longitudinal direction of the hole; and a flow channel extending through the body and equipped with a flow sensor for measuring the direction and rate of the flow between the sectors. In accordance with the invention, the dividing members are formed of thin and elastic sealing strips, which have been fixed to the body and, being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the body, arranged to surround and delimit the sectors.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2007Publication date: August 18, 2011Applicant: Posiva OyInventors: Jari Pöllänen, Petri Heikkinen, Pekka Rouhiainen
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Patent number: 7992434Abstract: A measurement device is disclosed which includes a structure adapted to be removably coupled to a Christmas tree, a sleeve operatively coupled to the structure and a flowmeter positioned at least partially within the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David Zollo, Andrew Beck, Sean Walters
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Publication number: 20110185805Abstract: A variable throat Venturi flow meter includes an upstream pipe section having an upstream cross-sectional area, a throat section having a variable throat cross-sectional area that is smaller than the upstream cross-sectional area, and a plurality of section-varying elements adapted to temporarily vary the throat cross-sectional area to allow a downhole tool to pass through the throat section.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2008Publication date: August 4, 2011Inventors: Gilles Roux, Céline Gabard-Cuoq, Stéphane Chareille, Pierre Mouget
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Publication number: 20110184711Abstract: A method for determining permeability of a subsurface formation includes measuring a parameter related to fluid content of the formation at a first time from within a wellbore penetrating the formation. A rate of entry of fluid from the wellbore into the formation is determined from the measurement of the parameter made at the first time. The permeability is determined from the rate of entry.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2009Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Raphael Altman, John C. Rasmus, Carlos Maeso
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Publication number: 20110178713Abstract: A device for detecting a flow of air from an exit end of a tube fed into an entrance end of the tube, including a bore having a first section with a first size bore size and a second section with a second bore size, an obstruction located within the bore between the first section and the second section, the obstruction configured to obstruct air flowing from the first section to the second section, and fixing means to fix the device to the tube so that the bore communicates with the exit end of the tube, wherein in use, an air pressure sensor is used to compare air pressure within the first bore section and air pressure within the second bore section, so that a pressure differential is indicative of an air flow within the bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2009Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: BRITISH TELECOMMUNICATIONS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANYInventors: Philip Alfred Barker, Keith Eric Nolde
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Publication number: 20110154896Abstract: The apparatus for a borehole influx fluid parameters measurement comprises an enclosure open on two adjacent sides and having a poorly deformable heat-insulating rear wall, a cover and side walls made of elastically deformable heat-insulating material. Inside the enclosure a cellular structure of elastically deformable heat-insulating material is mounted with the gap relative to the enclosure's rear wall and having the through cells insulated from one another. Said cells forming the apparatus inlet openings on one side of the cellular structure and on the other side they are connected with the gap, the total area of the inlet openings significantly exceeds the area of the structure side surface they are located at. The transducers for the measurement of the influx fluid parameters are disposed inside the cells.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2010Publication date: June 30, 2011Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Valery Vasilyevich Shako, Vyacheslav Pavlovich Pimenov
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Publication number: 20110139442Abstract: A method of determining a concentration of a component in a flow from a single source or layer contributing to a total flow using the steps of measuring the total flow rate at various depths and sampling the total flow at a depth between two successive sources, measuring a total concentration of one or more flow components within the total flow, repeating the measuring of the total flow rate, the sampling and total concentration in further intervals separating other pairs of successive sources, and determining the concentration of at least one component by solving a system of mass balance equations representing the total flow of the flow components at each sampling depth.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: June 16, 2011Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Murtaza Ziauddin, Ozgur Karacali
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Publication number: 20110100111Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting radial flows of conductive fluid are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are used to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. The shields may be a conduit through which conductive fluid may flow. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. Generally, once the circulating electrical current flow between the electrode pairs is substantially reduced or eliminated, only the voltage difference from the localized induced electric field remains. This way, a true induced voltage may be measured, and thus an accurate value for the fluid velocity may be determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2011Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Publication number: 20110094741Abstract: The invention provides apparatus for use in a wellbore (32) made of a casing (30) and an annular (33) with a fluid within, comprising: a reel (40) of wound optic fiber line (10) fixed to an object (20) within the casing, and a light transmitter/receiver device (12) able to generate a signal through the optic fiber line and to measure a change of said signal; wherein the optic fiber line is: (a) on a first position fixed to a reference point (4) linked to the light transmitter/receiver device, and is (b) on a second position unwound from the reel; wherein the light transmitter/receiver device is able to measure the change of said signal when occurring at the second position; and the apparatus having a system able to measure the flow rate of the fluid exiting the annular at the surface level Q.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: PRAD RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT LIMITED.Inventors: Pierre Vigneaux, Dominique Guillot
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Publication number: 20110061453Abstract: In a borehole logging tool, the flow of conductive fluid into or out of a wellbore at the wellbore wall is detected and measured with a sensor loop proximate the borehole inner wall. The sensor loop includes a series of contiguous sensors that act as electromagnetic flowmeters and provide fluid measurements covering the entire circumference of the sensor loop. The sensor loop includes an elastic element that forces the sensor loop outward to maintain pressure along the sensor loop circumference against the interior borehole wall. The sensor loop is designed to lie at a non-perpendicular angle to the wellbore axis, and mechanical arms press the top and bottom of the loop against the borehole inner wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2010Publication date: March 17, 2011Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Patent number: 7891422Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Iain M. Maclean
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Publication number: 20110023595Abstract: A compact fluid disposal and surface well testing system and method, including a multiphase meter for flow-metering and sampling of a received oil/gas/water stream and generating flow information for the received oil/gas/water stream; a compact gas/liquid splitter coupled to the multiphase meter and configured for generating a gas rich stream, and a liquid rich stream from the oil/gas/water stream based on the flow information from the multiphase meter; and a free water knock out (FWKO)/holding tank coupled to the compact gas/liquid splitter for receiving the liquid rich stream from the compact gas/liquid splitter and degassing the liquid rich stream and performing oil/water separation on the liquid rich stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2008Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventor: Francis Allouche
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Patent number: 7866207Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting radial flows of conductive fluid are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are used to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. The shields may be a conduit through which conductive fluid may flow. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. Generally, once the circulating electrical current flow between the electrode pairs is substantially reduced or eliminated, only the voltage difference from the localized induced electric field remains. This way, a true induced voltage may be measured, and thus an accurate value for the fluid velocity may be determined.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2009Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: REM Scientific Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Patent number: 7836759Abstract: In a borehole logging tool, the flow of conductive fluid into or out of a wellbore at the wellbore wall is detected and measured with a sensor loop proximate the borehole inner wall. The sensor loop includes a series of contiguous sensors that act as electromagnetic flowmeters and provide fluid measurements covering the entire circumference of the sensor loop. The sensor loop includes an elastic element that forces the sensor loop outward to maintain pressure along the sensor loop circumference against the interior borehole wall. The sensor loop is designed to lie at a non-perpendicular angle to the wellbore axis, and mechanical arms press the top and bottom of the loop against the borehole inner wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2009Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: REM Scientific Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Patent number: 7784339Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus an methods for detecting the behavior of perforations in a wellbore casing, the apparatus including a sensor array movable within the internal diameter of the casing, the sensor array having one or more sensors located proximate the internal surface of the casing with the sensors being located or oriented such that properties of flow from a proximate perforation can be distinguished from properties of a main flow through the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2005Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: John Mervyn Cook, Ashley Bernard Johnson
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Patent number: 7778780Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to a method (10) for characterizing a well (700) using distributed temperature sensor (DTS) data to optimise a well model (12). The method comprises providing a well model of flow and thermal properties (12a, 12b) of the well (700), where the well model (12) has a plurality of adjustable physical parameters, providing a data set made up of a plurality of DTS temperature profiles of the well (700) taken at different times during operation of the well (700), and running the well model (12) with different combinations of the plurality of adjustable physical parameters to match to the plurality of DTS temperature profiles. The DTS temperature profiles may also be pre-processed to make them consistent with one another.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2005Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Stephen J. Kimminau, Mohammed Rupawalla, Kashif Rashid, David Michael Hargreaves, Cyril Lagrange
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Publication number: 20100200242Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to methods and apparatus for centrifugal separation. In one embodiment, a separator includes an outer tubular having ends sealed from the environment and an inner tubular. The inner tubular is disposed within the outer tubular, has ends in fluid communication with a bore of the outer tubular, and is attached to the outer tubular. The separator further includes an inlet. The inlet is disposed through a wall of the outer tubular, in fluid communication with a bore of the inner tubular, and tangentially attached to the inner tubular so that fluid flow from the inlet to the inner tubular is centrifugally accelerated. The separator further includes a gas outlet in fluid communication with the outer tubular bore; and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the outer tubular bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventors: George Joel Rodger, Denman L. Cloudt, JR.
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Publication number: 20100147066Abstract: A method of determining a concentration of a component in a flow from a single source or layer contributing to a total flow is described using the steps of repeatedly changing the relative flows from the source; and for each of the changed relative flows determining the combined flow rate and a total concentration of the component of the total flow until sufficient data points are collected to solving a system of mass balance equations representing the flow of the component from each source at each of the changed flow rates.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2008Publication date: June 17, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY COPORATIONInventor: Murtaza Ziauddin
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Patent number: 7658226Abstract: Although the methods have been described here for, and are most typically used for, hydrocarbon production, fluid diversion measurement systems and methods are described. One method includes inserting a tubular tubing having one more fluid injection ports into a wellbore, injecting a treatment fluid through the injection port, and determining differential flow of the treatment fluid at one or more wellbore based on measuring the concentration of at least one particular component of a wellbore fluid located in the annulus formed between the wellbore and tubular; and using the measured parameters in realtime to monitor, control, or both monitor and control diversion of the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Murtaza Ziauddin, Bhavani Raghuraman, Li Jiang, Xuefei Sun, Sebastien Fremont, Ballard Andrews, Robert Schroeder, Stephen Hill, Mahmuda Afroz, Frank Espinosa, Michael Orlet, John Lovell, Steve Davies
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Publication number: 20100018305Abstract: Fluid flow measurement device and method. In one embodiment, a tool comprises a rotating arm with a sensor pad to measure fluid flow into or out of the casing wall. The arm maintains the sensor pad in close proximity to the casing inner wall. The tool diameter is variable to allow the tool to traverse variable diameter casings and pass obstacles. The sensor pad comprises flow channels to direct the flow of fluid by electromagnetic sensors configured to detect conductive fluid flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2007Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventors: Robert E. Maute, Feroze Sidhwa
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Publication number: 20090308152Abstract: A measurement device is disclosed which includes a structure adapted to be removably coupled to a Christmas tree, a sleeve operatively coupled to the structure and a flowmeter positioned at least partially within the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2009Publication date: December 17, 2009Inventors: David Zollo, Andrew Beck, Sean Walters
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Publication number: 20090308151Abstract: A measurement device is disclosed which includes a structure adapted to be removably coupled to a Christmas tree, a sleeve operatively coupled to the structure and a flowmeter positioned at least partially within the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2009Publication date: December 17, 2009Inventors: David Zollo, Andrew Beck, Sean Walters
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Publication number: 20090266155Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting radial flows of conductive fluid are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are used to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. The shields may be a conduit through which conductive fluid may flow. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. Generally, once the circulating electrical current flow between the electrode pairs is substantially reduced or eliminated, only the voltage difference from the localized induced electric field remains. This way, a true induced voltage may be measured, and thus an accurate value for the fluid velocity may be determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2009Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Patent number: 7600419Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Gary Martin Oddie
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Patent number: 7596996Abstract: A measurement device is disclosed which includes a structure adapted to be removably coupled to a Christmas tree, a sleeve operatively coupled to the structure and a flowmeter positioned at least partially within the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2007Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David Zollo, Andrew Beck, Sean Walters
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Publication number: 20090235730Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing deposits formed within a capillary tube that has been used to deliver treatment chemicals into a well. The method includes pumping a cleaning solution through the capillary tube coil, preferably after the capillary tube has been removed from the well and formed as a coil. The cleaning solution comprises at least 20 weight percent of a surfactant or dispersant, at least 5 weight percent of a coupling agent, and at least 10 weight percent solvent. A preferred surfactant or dispersant is selected from the group consisting of an alkyl-aryl sulphonate and a phosphate ester. An example of a cleaning solution includes dodecylbenzeneylsulphonic (DDBSA) acid, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether and toluene.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2009Publication date: September 24, 2009Applicant: CHAMPION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: Rama R. Alapati
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Patent number: 7574907Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting radial flows of conductive fluid are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are used to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. The shields may be a conduit through which conductive fluid may flow. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. Generally, once the circulating electrical current flow between the electrode pairs is substantially reduced or eliminated, only the voltage difference from the localized induced electric field remains. This way, a true induced voltage may be measured, and thus an accurate value for the fluid velocity may be determined.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2004Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: REM Scientific Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Publication number: 20090193885Abstract: A fluid flow metering device comprises a ball valve locatable in a fluid flow, having at least two transverse bores through the ball valve, a first transverse bore and a second transverse bore. The first transverse bore includes a fluid flow metering apparatus for measuring the rate of fluid flow through the first transverse bore. The ball valve is preferably rotatable between a first metering position where fluid is flowable through the first transverse bore and a second open position where fluid is flowable through the second transverse bore. In addition, the second transverse bore is dimensioned so that a tool is movable through the second transverse bore when the ball valve is in the second open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2009Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventors: Céline Gabard-Cuoq, Jean-Michel Hache, Gilles Roux
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Publication number: 20090178476Abstract: In a borehole logging tool, the flow of conductive fluid into or out of a wellbore at the wellbore wall is detected and measured with a sensor loop proximate the borehole inner wall. The sensor loop includes a series of contiguous sensors that act as electromagnetic flowmeters and provide fluid measurements covering the entire circumference of the sensor loop. The sensor loop includes an elastic element that forces the sensor loop outward to maintain pressure along the sensor loop circumference against the interior borehole wall. The sensor loop is designed to lie at a non-perpendicular angle to the wellbore axis, and mechanical arms press the top and bottom of the loop against the borehole inner wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2009Publication date: July 16, 2009Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Publication number: 20090114008Abstract: A method for determining the flow characteristics of a geological formation; in a particular embodiment the method comprising the steps of: providing a container such as a core barrel within the formation; adding a portion of the formation, such as a core sample, into the container; and whilst the container remains in the formation, injecting fluid into the container such that a portion of the fluid flows through said portion of the formation and measuring the flow of the injected fluid to give information on the nature, such as permeability, of the core sample. In preferred embodiments fluid is received from the portion of the formation in the container to give more information on the core sample. Certain embodiments include packers to direct the flow of the fluids within the container. Such in situ measurements provide more accurate data on the reservoir characteristics, such as reservoir permeability.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2008Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventor: Philippe Cravatte
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Patent number: 7509852Abstract: In a borehole logging tool, the flow of conductive fluid into or out of a wellbore at the wellbore wall is detected and measured with a sensor loop proximate the borehole inner wall. The sensor loop includes a series of contiguous sensors that act as electromagnetic flowmeters and provide fluid measurements covering the entire circumference of the sensor loop. The sensor loop includes an elastic element that forces the sensor loop outward to maintain pressure along the sensor loop circumference against the interior borehole wall. The sensor loop is designed to lie at a non-perpendicular angle to the wellbore axis, and mechanical arms press the top and bottom of the loop against the borehole inner wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2005Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: REM Scientific Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Patent number: 7475593Abstract: A borehole logging system for the measure and the telemetry of properties and conditions of a well borehole environs. The system is embodied to measure fluids within the borehole, to measure high resolution images of the wall of the borehole, to transfer of data to and from equipment operating within the borehole environment, and to determine the status of equipment operating within the borehole. The embodiments are based upon emission, measurement and processing of electromagnetic radiation in the near infrared (NIR) region of the radiation spectrum.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Precision Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Richard Odom
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Publication number: 20090007650Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Robert Douglas Hayworth
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Publication number: 20080307860Abstract: A detector (1) is used distinguishing a phase from a multiphase fluid mixture. The detector comprises: an optical probe (2) for optically distinguishing one of the phases from the multiphase fluid mixture, the optical probe having a tip (20) in contact with the multiphase fluid mixture, and a detector cell (3) arranged to be coupled to a multiphase fluid mixture flowing line (L) and to the optical probe (2). The detector cell (1) further comprises: an internal flowing line (4) arranged so that the phases of the multiphase fluid mixture flowing in the internal flowing line are driven-on by capillarity effect, and a bore (5) coupled to the internal flowing line for positioning the optical probe in the detector cell so that the multiphase fluid mixture flows substantially around the tip (20) of the optical probe.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2005Publication date: December 18, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Paul Guieze, Bruno Pinguet
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Publication number: 20080257032Abstract: A measurement device is disclosed which includes a structure adapted to be removably coupled to a Christmas tree, a sleeve operatively coupled to the structure and a flowmeter positioned at least partially within the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventors: David Zollo, Andrew Beck, Sean Walters
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Publication number: 20080186024Abstract: A method and apparatus useful to determine characteristics of fluid flow, such as fluid holdup and flow velocity. The apparatus comprises a flow tube, a permanent magnet, a first set of coils, and a second set of coils. The first set of coils creates a radio frequency magnetic field within the flow tube with a series of refocusing pulses. The second set of coils encodes velocity information onto the fluid molecules using rotating frame zeugmatography that is later decoded and used to estimate the fluid flow velocity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2008Publication date: August 7, 2008Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventor: Carl Edwards
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Publication number: 20080183392Abstract: Dynamic gain setting is provided for a multiphase flow measuring device that measures in-phase and quadrature signals. The average current at a plurality of measure electrodes is determined and subtracted from the individual measure currents to give a measurement with improved dynamic range.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2008Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventor: Stanislav W. Forgang
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Patent number: 7389684Abstract: The gas lift flow surveillance device has a paddle having a rod with a target attached to one end and a paddle block attached to the opposite end. The paddle block is pivotally disposed within a surveillance device housing body. A contact extending from the paddle block exerts pressure against a strain input area of a load cell. The load cell has a machine-readable millivolt output that changes according to a strain input from the paddle. A bottom section of the housing body has a bore defined therein that receives a threaded hex nipple, the rod passing through the nipple. The threaded hex nipple is adapted for attachment to a flow pipe National Pipe Thread (NPT) aperture for attaching the surveillance device to a flow pipe with the target in the fluid flow path.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Inventor: Jude B. Roy
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Publication number: 20080078242Abstract: Caliper measurements made during rotation of a bottomhole assembly are processed to estimate the location of the BHA, 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. 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2007Publication date: April 3, 2008Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Gamal A. Hassan, Philip L. Kurkoski, Pingjun Guo
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Publication number: 20080022763Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting radial flows of conductive fluid are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are used to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. The shields may be a conduit through which conductive fluid may flow. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. Generally, once the circulating electrical current flow between the electrode pairs is substantially reduced or eliminated, only the voltage difference from the localized induced electric field remains. This way, a true induced voltage may be measured, and thus an accurate value for the fluid velocity may be determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2004Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventor: Robert E. Maute
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Patent number: 7114386Abstract: To acquire data such as the flow rate of various phases of a fluid flowing in a hydrocarbon well (12) in production, in particular in an inclined or horizontal portion of the well, both the local speed of the fluid and the proportions of the various phases are determined in each of at least two distinct regions of the well that are not in alignment with one another parallel to the axis of the well. The regions in which the measurements are taken are advantageously distributed in a vertical plane containing the axis of the well when the well is inclined or horizontal.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2000Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Eric Veignat, Fadhel Rezgui, Jean-Pierre Chyzak
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Patent number: 7110920Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 26, 2004Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P.Inventors: Steven M. McCarter, Ronald W. Jenkins
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Patent number: 7064677Abstract: A method monitors servicing operations of a vehicle capable for example of pumping various fluid treatments down into a well being serviced at a well site. The method records the vehicle's engine speed and the values of one or more service-related variables, such as pressure, temperature, flow rate, and pump strokes per minute. These variables are recorded as a function of the time of day in accordance with when they were sensed, and are associated with a well site identifier to form a data record. Global Positioning System data associated with the service vehicle assists in determining the well site identifier or can constitute the well site identifier. In some embodiments, the data record is communicated over a wireless communication link from a remote well site to a central office.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2003Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Key Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Frederic M Newman
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Patent number: 6928864Abstract: The present invention provides a tool assembly for use in field applications to monitor at least one condition in a well or other hole. The tool assembly may include a computing unit for directing operation of the tool assembly and may be sized to be operable in a hole having a diameter of 1 inch, and in some cases even smaller. In one aspect, the tool assembly is designed to significantly conserve power. Sensor readings may be taken at different schedules to conserve power when frequent readings are not required. Also, internal electronics of the tool assembly can be operated at a low voltage. In one aspect, the tool assembly is assemblable by simple rotatable engagement of the components, with electrical interconnections being made automatically by the rotatable engagement without keying of components. In another aspect, the tool assembly is networkable with other like tool assemblies and monitorable from a central location.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: In-Situ, Inc.Inventors: Kent D. Henry, Zachary A. Gray, Mark A. Watson, Stanley B. Smith, Korey L. Kreitman
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Patent number: 6860325Abstract: This invention comprises the use of a variable orifice valve as a flow controller and flow meter. Pressure measurements are taken upstream and downstream of the variable orifice valve by way of a differential pressure measurement mechanism. The differential pressure measurement mechanism may comprise two separate absolute pressure measurement devices or a single differential pressure measurement device. Flow rate through the valve is determined from the pressure drop across the valve. In wellbores having multiple zones, a variable orifice valve together with a differential pressure measurement mechanism may be deployed for each zone. The flow rate through each of the zones and at the surface can then be monitored and controlled.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Terizhandur S. Ramakrishnan, Gary M. Oddie, Sam Smonian
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Patent number: 6851444Abstract: A system is provided that monitors at the wellsite injection of additives into formation fluids recovered through wellbores and controls the supply of such additives from remote locations. A pump supplies the selected additive from a source at the wellsite into the wellbore via a suitable supply line. A flow meter in the supply line measures the flow rate of the additive through the supply line and generates signals representative of the flow rate. A controller at the wellsite determines the flow rate from the flow meter signals and in response thereto controls the pump to control the flow rate of the additive to the well. The wellsite controller interfaces with a suitable two-way communication link and transmits signals and data representative of the flow rate, and other parameters to a second remote controller. The remote controller transmits command signals to the wellsite controller representative of any change desired for the flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2000Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Kristopher T. Kohl, C. Mitch Means
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Patent number: 6832515Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jean-Marc Follini, Julian Pop
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Patent number: 6820702Abstract: An automated method and system for recognizing a well control event includes determining a state of drilling operations. When drilling operations are in a circulating state, a benchmark for a relative flow value. The relative flow value is based on a flow of drilling fluid into a well bore and a flow of drilling fluid out of the well bore. A limit on variation of the relative flow value is determined from the benchmark. A cumulative sum for the relative flow value is determined over time in response to the relative flow value exceeding the limit. A well control event is recognized based on the cumulative sum.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Noble Drilling Services Inc.Inventors: Michael Niedermayr, Mitchell D. Pinckard, Gerhard P. Glaser, Joao Tadeu Vidal de Sousa