Formation Logging (e.g., Borehole Studies Of Pressure Derivatives Or Of Pressure-temperature Derivatives) Patents (Class 73/152.02)
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Patent number: 12007516Abstract: A computer-implemented method includes receiving a geological feature search query identifying one or more geological features, executing, based on receiving the geological feature search query, a search of database storing a plurality of seismic data images. The seismic data images are labeled with geological features present in each of the plurality of seismic data images as part of a machine learning process. The method further includes determining, based on executing the search, search results, wherein the search results identify one more of the plurality of seismic data images having the one or more geological features identified in the geological feature search query, and outputting information regarding the search results.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2019Date of Patent: June 11, 2024Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Tracy Dorrington, Chiao-Fang Hsu
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Patent number: 11714932Abstract: A drill bit design generator uses drill bit metrics to generate drill bit designs with reduced 3D coupled vibration. The drill bit design generator generates an initial set of drill bit designs that are simulated in a deployed or artificial environment. Simulated drill bits according to the initial drill bit designs have gyroscopic sensors that detect the presence of 3D coupled vibration. A drill bit simulator tracks metrics such as side cutting efficiency and drilling efficiency during simulations and correlates these metrics with 3D coupled vibration. The drill bit design generator determines thresholds for these metrics using correlations with 3D coupled vibration and generates updated/new drill bit designs using the metric thresholds.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2020Date of Patent: August 1, 2023Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Shilin Chen, Shiwei Qin
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Patent number: 11630041Abstract: The invention discloses a method for obtaining the geometrical and mechanical parameters of rock samples and a holographic scanning system thereof, wherein the system includes an observation mechanism, a multi-scale penetration mechanism, a grinding mechanism, a rock sample installation mechanism arranged on a three-axis precision motion platform, and an industrial computer controlling the operation mode of each mechanism of the platform Indentation/rotary penetration test, pulse echo signal acquisition, three-dimensional surface topography reconstruction, layer by layer grinding and repeated experiments are carried out. The geometric parameters and corresponding mechanical field parameters are obtained by spatial interpolation of the three-dimensional parameter lattice accumulated by several layers of single-layer rock parameters. The holographic scanning system and method can obtain the real spatial distribution of various media in rock samples.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2021Date of Patent: April 18, 2023Assignee: Tianjin UniversityInventors: Gaofeng Zhao, Yiming Li
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Patent number: 11448789Abstract: Systems and methods for determining mechanical properties of anisotropic media are disclosed. A method for determining mechanical properties of an anisotropic media includes obtaining log data of the anisotropic media, the log data corresponding to measurements of the anisotropic media collected with a logging tool; determining values for a plurality of first stiffness components of a stiffness matrix based on horizontal and vertical velocities derived from the log data; determining an upper bound for a second stiffness component of the stiffness matrix based on the values for the plurality of first stiffness components; estimating a value for the second stiffness component based on the determined upper bound; determining a mechanical property of the anisotropic media based on the estimated value of the second stiffness component; and providing the determined mechanical property.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2018Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Mehdi Eftekhari Far
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Patent number: 10851643Abstract: Techniques for determining geometries of hydraulic fractures include identifying a data structure that includes data associated with hydraulic fracture identifiers and observed fluid pressures, at least one of the hydraulic fracture identifiers representing a first hydraulic fracture formed from a monitor wellbore into a subsurface rock formation and at least another of the hydraulic fracture identifiers representing a second hydraulic fracture formed from a treatment wellbore into the subsurface rock formation, at least one of the observed fluid pressures includes a pressure change in a fluid in the first hydraulic fracture that is induced by formation of the second hydraulic fracture; performing a single- or multi-objective, non-linear constrained optimization analysis to minimize at least one objective function associated with the observed fluid pressures; and based on minimizing the at least one objective function, determining respective sets of hydraulic fracture geometries associated with at least one oType: GrantFiled: May 14, 2018Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Assignee: Reveal Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Sean Andrew Spicer, Erica Wilhelmina Catharina Coenen
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Patent number: 10823716Abstract: A measured wetness of and a ?13C associated with a gas sample from a hydrocarbon formation is received wherein the wetness is a percentage of C2+ by mass. Calculated wetnesses of and ?13C values associated with a plurality of gas samples taken from one or more analogous hydrocarbon reservoirs is received. Each wetness is calculated as a percentage of mass within the gas sample. The measured wetness received for the gas sample from among the calculated wetnesses is identified. A ?13C is determined from among the ?13C values that corresponds to the measured wetness of the gas sample. A gas maturity for the gas sample is determined using the determined ?13C.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2018Date of Patent: November 3, 2020Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Feng Hu Lu
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Patent number: 10711606Abstract: Realtime on-site mechanical characterization of wellbore cuttings is described. At a surface of a wellbore being drilled at a wellbore drilling site, multiple cuttings resulting from drilling the wellbore are received. At the wellbore drilling site, nano-indentation tests on each of the multiple cuttings are performed. At the wellbore drilling site, mechanical properties of the multiple cuttings are determined based on the results of the nano-indentation tests.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2017Date of Patent: July 14, 2020Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventors: Katherine Leigh Hull, Younane N. Abousleiman
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Patent number: 10527752Abstract: A method includes introducing a tool string into a wellbore having annular material disposed in an annulus defined between casing and the wellbore. Obtaining acoustic refracted waveform measurements of the annular material from a cement bond logging tool, obtaining ultrasonic measurements of the annular material from a circumferential acoustic scanning tool, obtaining gamma radiation measurements scattered from the annular material from a spectral density logging tool, and obtaining thermal neutron radiation measurements scattered from the annular material from a dual spaced neutron logging tool. Obtained measurements may then be collected and computed with a computer and a deliverable is generated that includes one or more cross plots providing a compositional equivalent of the annular material.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2015Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Philip Fox, Fnu Suparman, Gary James Frisch, John Douglas Lauchner
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Patent number: 10352151Abstract: A drill string section receives an electronics package. A flow channel extends through an aperture in the electronics package. The flow channel carries a flow of drilling fluid through the drill string section. The flow channel is sealed to a body of the drill string section. The electronics package need not be pressure-rated.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2015Date of Patent: July 16, 2019Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.Inventors: Patrick R. Derkacz, Aaron W. Logan, Justin C. Logan
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Patent number: 10330577Abstract: Provided is a method of measuring a change in the density of an underground material. To measure the change in the density of the underground material, a borehole is installed above a target underground material and a first gravimeter and a second gravimeter are installed outside and inside of the borehole, respectively. Sequentially, a change in the density of the target underground material is calculated based on a first gravitational change and a second gravitational change measured using the first gravimeter and the second gravimeter. According to the method, it is possible to precisely measure the change in the density of the target underground material, such as an oil, a gas, etc., stored in an underground reservoir and carbon dioxide injected into an underground storage.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2015Date of Patent: June 25, 2019Assignee: KOREA INSTITUTE OF GEOSCIENCE AND MINERAL RESOURCES (KIGAM)Inventors: Jeong Woo Kim, Neumeyer Juergen
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Patent number: 10215009Abstract: A well advisor system and console for monitoring and managing monitoring and managing data stream quality in well drilling and production operations. The system may be accessed through one or more workstations, or other computing devices, which may be located at a well site or remotely. The system is in communication with and receives input from various sensors. It collects real-time sensor data sampled during operations at the well site. The system processes the data, and provides nearly instantaneous numerical and visual feedback through a variety of graphical user interfaces (“GUIs”), which are presented in the form of an operation-specific console. A plurality of data checks are dynamically run on the data streams to determine the presence and quality of the data, and data quality indicators are presented on the various consoles and dashboards.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2014Date of Patent: February 26, 2019Inventors: Sigurd Tjostheim, Fereidoun Abbassian, Per Arild Andresen, Stephen Tean Edwards, Mark Adrian Honey, Nigel Charles Last, Colin James Mason, Trond Waage, Rune Arnt Skarbo, Thomas Hestenes Jakobsen, Paulo Jorge Da Cunha Gomes, Kevin Perry Richardson, Jan Kare Igland, Sankarrappan Periyasamy, Randall Vashishta Sant
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Patent number: 9488748Abstract: Systems, tools and techniques for generating downhole parameters of a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation and having a downhole fluid (108) therein are provided. A downhole tool with sensor pads (118a, 118b, 118c, 118d) is positioned in the wellbore (106) for emitting an electrical signal therefrom and for measuring the electrical signal. A downhole fluid unit is provided for generating downhole fluid measurements from the measured electrical signal passing through the downhole fluid and for generating a downhole fluid distribution profile (430) based on the downhole fluid measurements whereby separation of the downhole fluid may be indicated. A formation unit may be provided for generating formation measurements from the measured electrical signal passing through the subterranean formation.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2012Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Richard Bloemenkamp
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Patent number: 9290901Abstract: The disclosure describes, in part, apparatuses and methods for installing structures (e.g., foundations, footings, anchors, abutments, etc.) at work sites, such as difficult-access work sites. In some instances, a rotating drill assembly is assembled over a target location in order to excavate a radial array of batter-angled shafts associated with the target location in preparation for the installation of a radial array of micropiles. An operator utilizes the rotating drill in combination with a foundation pile schedule/decision matrix to design and install the radial array of batter-angled micropiles. This disclosure also describes techniques for designing, fabricating and installing structural caps to be coupled to the installed radial array batter angled micropiles. These structural caps are lightweight and, thus, more portable to difficult-access sites where they are coupled to the micropiles forming a foundation for structure to be installed at the difficult-access site.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2015Date of Patent: March 22, 2016Assignee: Crux Subsurface, Inc.Inventors: Nickolas G. Salisbury, Scott R. Tunison, Freeman Alan Thompson
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Patent number: 9038451Abstract: A method for detecting the formation of at least one phase in a mixture, particularly a hydrocarbon mixture. The method may include using a probe to expose a portion of the mixture to electromagnetic radiation to determine the value of a parameter of interest indicative of the formation of a phase. The method may also include using the value of the parameter of interest with a correlation between a known property of the mixture and the value of a parameter of interest to detect the formation of a phase.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2011Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Corina L. Sandu, Sebatian Csutak, Marco Respini, Huzeifa Ismail, Michael O. Brauchle
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Patent number: 9041547Abstract: A method of processing downhole measurement data includes: receiving formation measurement data generated by a downhole tool during a logging-while drilling operation over a selected time period; receiving a measured depth corresponding to the selected time period based on data taken at a surface location; receiving tool rotation data generated by measurements of a rotational rate of the downhole tool taken by a downhole sensor during the selected time period; calculating a new depth of the tool as a function of time over the selected time period based on a relationship between the tool rotation data and the measured depth; and correcting an original depth of the measurement data with the new depth.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2011Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Andreas Hartmann
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Patent number: 8950251Abstract: A method for determining the flux of methane newly generated through manipulation of a sub-surface environment. The method comprises: (a) measuring a baseline isotope ratio (Rrm) in methane pre-existing in the reservoir; (b) manipulating the reservoir to facilitate biogenic production of new methane in the reservoir; (c) injecting a substance labeled with the isotope into the reservoir; (d) measuring a flux (Fm) and isotope ratio (Rpm) of methane from the reservoir; (e) measuring an isotope ratio (Rpw) of a methane precursor in a liquid or vapor sample at one or more time periods; and (f) calculating a flux (Fnm) of the new methane from the reservoir according to an isotope mass balance, such as wherein ?=isotope fractionation factor between the methane pre-cursor and the new methane.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2010Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventor: David Valentine
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Patent number: 8931335Abstract: Measurements made by a multi-component induction logging tool may be corrected for tool eccentricity or the presence of a fracture in the earth formation. The corrected measurements may then be used in conjunction with a multi-array measurement to determine horizontal and vertical formation resistivity.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2006Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporationInventors: Michael B. Rabinovich, Alexandre N. Bespalov, Bill H. Corley, Tsili Wang
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Patent number: 8925378Abstract: Apparatus for making measurements in boreholes comprising a sonde having a radial array of arms provided thereon; wherein the sonde is connectable to a cartridge containing electronic circuitry specific to a predetermined measurement to be made in the borehole, each arm is connectable to a sensor pad specific to the predetermined measurement; and the sonde provides electrical connectivity between the sensor pads and the cartridge that is substantially independent of the predetermined measurement.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2009Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Charles Durbec, Olivier Faivre, Patrick Vessereau, Andrew Hayman
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Publication number: 20140366620Abstract: A method of performing a rock core flow performance test includes increasing a pressure applied to at least one surface of the rock core to a first pressure, measuring the pressure on a wellbore facing axial end of the rock core to determine a time interval over which the measured pressure drops from a second pressure to a third pressure, and determining a high pressure production ratio of the rock core based on the time interval.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventor: Dennis J. Haggerty
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Patent number: 8899322Abstract: Autonomous control of a wellbore tool is provided by programming a memory module of a processor with a database having data relating to a selected parameter of interest; conveying a sensor and the processor along the wellbore; and activating the wellbore tool if the processor determines that a measurement provided by the sensor correlates with the database data. The processor may correlate the sensor measurements with a predetermined pattern associated with the data, a preset value, and/or a preset range of values. Well tool activation may occur when the processor finds: a substantial match between a predetermined pattern and at least one measured value; a present value and at least one measured value, and/or a preset range of values and at least one measured range of values. Also, activating the well tool may occur only if a measurement from a second sensor meets a preset criteria.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2008Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Gary J. Cresswell, William Befeld, Robert Estes
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Publication number: 20140332207Abstract: A method for determining a characteristic of an underground formation with a fluid is described. The method includes providing a sample material of the underground formation; measuring the permeability and the porosity of the sample material; performing a drainage test on the sample material using the fluid; estimating the threshold pressure of the sample material from the drainage test, the permeability and the porosity measurements; and determining the receding contact angle of the fluid on the sample material from the threshold pressure. The sample material can be disaggregated material.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2014Publication date: November 13, 2014Inventors: Jerald J. Hinkel, Dean Willberg, Markus Pagels
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Patent number: 8864374Abstract: A sensing cable has a sensing fiber assembly, which includes a pair of sensing fibers joined by a turnaround section with a modal filter, at a terminating end of the sensing fibers. The sensing cable also includes an inner sleeve that surrounds the sensing fiber assembly and an armored casing that caps the terminating end of the inner sleeve. The sensing cable has a low profile and its components are each made of high temperature and hydrogen tolerant materials and are capable of prolonged operation at high temperatures, such as up to 300° C., in hydrogen environments over long lengths of fiber. A distributed thermal sensing (DTS) interrogator is connected to the sensing cable and performs DTS measuring according to protocols and algorithms that leverage the modal filter of the turnaround section to calculate temperature readings along the sensing fiber assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2011Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Qorex LLCInventors: Trevor Wayne MacDougall, Paul Eric Sanders
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Patent number: 8838390Abstract: A system for creating a log during gas detection and monitoring is disclosed herein. The system can include a gas detection and well logging device for sensing and transmitting data, which can include a processor in communication with a monitoring device. The monitoring device can monitor, acquire, and transmit data associated with a drilling operation. The processor can receive the data, calibrate the data, and log the data into files. The processor can capture sensed data based on a time event and a depth event. The processor can scale the data and form a geological-hydrocarbon log for transmission. A client device can be in communication with the gas detection and well logging device, and can have computer instructions for querying the geological hydrocarbon log, the data, and the files to obtain real time streaming data for instant display.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Selman and Associates, Ltd.Inventors: Thomas H. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings
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Publication number: 20140230537Abstract: Methods and apparatus for use of an electronic pressure gauge at high temperatures is presented. An electronic pressure sensor is exposed to wellbore pressure at a location having high-temperatures. A pressurized fluid, preferably a refrigerant, is flowed into a chamber proximate the pressure sensor and cools it sufficiently to preclude damage from the high wellbore temperatures. Preferably, the pressurized fluid is expanded, from liquid to gaseous phase, in the chamber. In another method, an electronic pressure gauge is positioned uphole, where temperature is not expected to damage the sensor, and a pressure chamber is positioned downhole at a location where pressure is to be sensed. The pressure chamber communicates downhole pressure to the uphole pressure gauge by way of a pressure conduit filled with pressurized fluid, such as an inert gas. The system is isolated from pressure during run-in by a temporary pressure isolation device such as a rupture disk.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2012Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.Inventor: Paul Ringgenberg
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Patent number: 8797035Abstract: One method of monitoring a formation core during coring operations can include measuring resistivities of a formation internal and external to a core barrel assembly, comparing the resistivities of the formation internal and external to the core barrel assembly, and determining a displacement of the core into the core barrel assembly, based at least in part on the comparing, while the core is being cut. A formation core analysis system can include multiple longitudinally spaced apart sets of transmitters and receivers which measure resistivity of a core while the core displaces into a core barrel assembly, and multiple longitudinally spaced apart sets of transmitters and receivers which measure resistivity of a formation external to the core barrel assembly while a coring bit penetrates the formation. A speed of displacement of the core may be indicated by differences in time between measurements taken via the different sets as the core displaces.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2012Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Michael S. Bittar, Gary E. Weaver
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Patent number: 8775088Abstract: The method uses a gas processor, various data collection devices each having a unique device protocol to receive drilling data, calibrate the devices and graphically present the data using both time events and depth events. The method includes computer implemented steps to scale the data and form the geological-hydrocarbon executive dashboard for transmission to various client devices to obtain real time streaming data, real time calibration information, while adding and removing detection devices and sensors online without shutting down the entire monitoring and analysis system for instant display.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2013Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Selman and Associates, Ltd.Inventors: Thomas H. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings
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Patent number: 8775087Abstract: The system includes a gas processor with gas processor data storage and computer instructions to receive in various device protocols simultaneously information from rig based sensors and gas analysis devices drilling data, calibrate the devices and graphically present the data using both time events and depth events. Computer instructions scale the data and form the geological-hydrocarbon executive dashboard for transmission to various client devices to present real time streaming data, real time calibration information, real time alarms while enabling users to add and remove detection devices and sensors, including rig servers and remote servers, online without shutting down the entire monitoring and analysis system.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2013Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Selman and Associates, Ltd.Inventors: Thomas H. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings
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Patent number: 8661888Abstract: A thermal disturbance of a rock mass is performed by circulating a fluid through a borehole, a temperature of the circulation fluid differs from a temperature of the rock mass. Before, during and after the thermal disturbance, differential electrical signals proportional to a temperature difference between two points along the borehole are registered by at least one pair of differential temperature transducers disposed along an axis of the borehole Differential electrical signals measured before the thermal disturbance are compared with differential electrical signals measured during the thermal disturbance and differential electrical signals of different temperature transducers positioned along the wellbore borehole are compared with one another. Based on the comparison results of different rock mass areas with different properties are identified.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Yury Anatolyevich Popov, Anton Vladimirovich Parshin, Vyacheslav Pavlovich Pimenov, Sergey Sergeevich Safonov, Vladimir Petrovich Stenin, Victor Vasilyevich Kostylev
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Publication number: 20140025301Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide techniques for using data from a select set of wells to develop correlations between surface-measured properties and properties typically determined from subsurface measurements (e.g., from logging tool responses, core analysis, or other subsurface measurements). When new wells are drilled, the surface data acquired while drilling may be used as an input to these correlations in order to predict properties associated with subsurface measurements.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2012Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventors: Bruce H. Storm, JR., Barry Fen Zhang, Charles Perry Matula
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Patent number: 8607628Abstract: A method for determining properties of a formation is described herein. The method includes disposing a well-logging tool in a borehole. The well-logging tool includes a device for varying temperature of the formation and two acoustic logging probes located symmetrically along the well-logging tool length relative to the device for varying temperature of the formation. During the logging tool movement in the borehole, continuous varying of the formation temperature, continuous acoustic logging, and continuous measurement of formation temperature are performed. Dependencies of the measured velocity and attenuation of the Stoneley waves as functions of the measured temperature of the formation are obtained. Based on the obtained dependencies, properties of the formation are determined.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Marwan Charara, Anton Vladimirovich Parshin, Evgeny Nikolaevich Dyshlyuk, Oleg Mikhailovich Zozulya, Sergey Sergeevich Safonov
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Publication number: 20130304384Abstract: An apparatus and method for estimating a parameter of interest of an earth formation involving alignment information between non-collocated oriented receivers and their corresponding non-collocated oriented transmitters. The method may include generating signal responses indicative to energy transmitted into an earth formation; estimating differences in alignment between transmitters and receivers; using the estimated differences in alignment to compensate for misalignment; and estimating a parameter of interest using the misalignment compensated signals. The misalignment estimate may include an inversion of at least one measurement from an alignment sensor. The apparatus may include a bottom hole assembly with oriented transmitters, oriented receivers, one or more alignment sensors, and at least one processor configured to compensate for misalignment using information about difference in alignment between at least one oriented transmitter and at least one oriented receiver.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2012Publication date: November 14, 2013Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Michael B. Rabinovich, Sergey Martakov, Hans-Martin Maurer
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Patent number: 8583378Abstract: A well passing through a geological formation is fitted with a tube, open at its bottom end, that is filled with a fluid. Another fluid is in the annular space between the tube and the wall of the well, the two fluids exhibiting an interface situated in the annular space. A hydraulic balance of the fluids of the well is disturbed and the trend of certain quantities is measured. These measurements are moreover simulated by computer by using different sets of values for the physical parameters, and efforts are made to estimate the geological formation. A comparison of the measurements with the simulation results makes it possible to identify an optimum set of values for the parameters.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Total SAInventors: Antoine Jacques, Jean-Luc Boutaud De La Combe, Pierre Berest, Benoit Brouard
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Patent number: 8528637Abstract: A method for determining depth in a wellbore uses inertial navigation in conjunction with a database having one or more measured parameters correlated with depth. The measured parameter may be the lengths of stands forming a drill string, prior survey data relating to a naturally occurring feature such as formation lithology, or data relating to a human made feature such as collars in a casing string. The downhole processor may use accelerometer measurements to calculate a measured depth of a BHA and access the database to retrieve a predicted depth that corresponds with one or more sensor measurements (e.g., motion indicating the addition of a stand to a drill string). Thereafter, if the downhole processor determines that the predicted depth is in agreement with the calculated depth, the processor stores the predicted depth and/or associates the predicted depth with directional surveys taken along the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2012Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Gary J. Cresswell, William J. Befeld, Robert Estes
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Patent number: 8522611Abstract: Acoustic waves from a controllable downhole acoustic source in a cased borehole are focused into a region of an earth formation. A hydrophone is used to monitor acoustic signals for onset of cavitation. The estimated pressure from the source in the focus region provides an estimate of formation pore pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Leonid L. Frumin, Joseph G. Barolak
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Patent number: 8521435Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method to determine the capture cross-section of a subsurface formation at a desired depth in the formation. A database of Sigma values for known lithologies, porosities, and salinities is provided, and multiple Sigma measurements are obtained from a downhole logging tool. Within the database, Sigma values are interpolated to determine the respective depths of investigation of the multiple Sigma measurements. A monotonic function is fitted to the multiple Sigma measurements at the determined depths of investigation, and the capture cross-section of the subsurface formation at any desired depth in the formation is determined using the fitted function. Similarly, a system to determine the capture cross-section of a subsurface formation at a desired depth in the formation and/or a depth of invasion of drilling fluids is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Chanh Cao Minh, Marie Laure Mauborgne, Roger Griffiths, Darwin Ellis
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Patent number: 8468882Abstract: A method and apparatus for logging a wellbore with a translating arm set is provided. The translating arm set has at least one translating sensor pad for measuring at least one downhole parameter. The translating arm set has at least one translating extendable arm extendable from the downhole tool for locating each of the at least one translating sensor pads proximate the wellbore wall. The translating arm set has an actuator for translating the at least one translating arm set along a longitudinal axis of the downhole tool whereby the translating sensor pad is positionable at a selected longitudinal position relative to the downhole tool.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kumar Anish, Kear George Richard
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Patent number: 8442769Abstract: Various methods are disclosed, comprising obtaining a plurality of raw depth measurements for a wellbore; obtaining survey data about a bottom hole assembly; obtaining depth compensation information; calculating a plurality of compensated depth measurements from the raw depth measurements and the depth compensation information and one or more additional corrections for residual pipe compliance, tide, and rig heave; calculating sag angle and correcting the survey data with the sag angle; determining a high fidelity wellbore trajectory from the compensated depth measurements and the survey data; and then employing the high fidelity wellbore trajectory in various drilling, formation evaluation, and production and reservoir analysis applications. Depth compensation information may comprise at least one of weight on bit, a friction factor, temperature profile, borehole profile, drill string mechanical properties, hookload, and drilling fluid property. The surveys may include both static and continuous surveys.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2008Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Wayne J. Phillips, Georgiy Bordakov, Alexander Kostin, Shyam Mehta, Denis Heliot, John C. Rasmus
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Publication number: 20130081458Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for determining a local mineral grain size of a valuable mineral in a rock of a deposit or an occurrence, where the rock comprises at least one other mineral, and wherein the valuable mineral has a higher density than the at least one other mineral. The method may include: performing a drilling operation using a drill in the rock, with cuttings being produced, forming an aerosol comprising the cuttings and a gas stream, transferring the aerosol from the drill to at least one air classifier, performing stream classification, wherein at least two fractions comprising in each case particles of the cuttings that sink at the same speed are formed, and determining a property of at least one of the fractions, which fraction is used as a measure for the local mineral grain size of the valuable mineral in the rock.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2011Publication date: April 4, 2013Inventors: Thomas Mütze, Silke Röntzsch
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Patent number: 8400874Abstract: A method for characterizing fluid pumping effects on a subsurface formation includes (a) during pumping of fluid into the subsurface formation, detecting passive seismic signals related to fractures created in the subsurface formation. (b) A place of origin of the passive seismic signals is determined. (c) A seismic energy source is actuated for a plurality of actuations and an output thereof is beam steered toward the place of origin. (d) At least one acoustic property is determined for the place of origin using signals detected as a result of the plurality of actuations. The detected signals are beam steered toward the place of origin and are stacked over the plurality of actuations. (a), (b), (c) and (d) are repeated until the pumping is completed.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Acoustic Zoom, Inc.Inventors: Jacques Y. Guigné, Nicholas G. Pace, Adam Gogacz
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Publication number: 20130025358Abstract: Devices and methods for logging a wellbore condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Steven R. Radford, John G. Evans, Freeman L. Hill
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Patent number: 8321132Abstract: Apparatus, methods for forming the apparatus, and methods for operating the apparatus provide a value for a formation property or a borehole property from measurements obtained in a well. The value may be generated from determining a weighted average of the value for the formation property or the borehole property using both values corresponding to different azimuths and weights corresponding to different azimuths.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2007Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Gordon L. Moake
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Patent number: 8316703Abstract: A flexible coupling for well logging instruments includes a housing coupled at one longitudinal end to one end of a second housing. Each of the housings defines a sealed interior chamber. The housings are coupled to enable angular deflection between respective longitudinal axes thereof. A conduit extends between the housings. The conduit is sealingly engaged to each housing such that longitudinal ends of the conduit are substantially positionally fixed with respect to each housing. The conduit is formed from material and has dimensions selected to withstand at least a same hydrostatic pressure as each of the housings. The conduit includes a bending strain distribution feature configured such that at a maximum angular deflection between housings a bending strain in the conduit is at most equal to an elastic limit of the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2008Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Alan J Sallwasser, Richard M Wilde
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Publication number: 20120272724Abstract: A method for forming a high resolution logging while drilling image includes receiving a logging while drilling data set and selecting a borehole grid. The borehole grid includes a plurality of pixels that define discrete azimuthal positions and depth positions in the borehole. The LWD data set is mapped to the selected borehole grid such that an azimuthal position and a depth position are assigned to each data point in the data set. An interpolation routine is used to fill empty pixels. Disclosed embodiments enable high resolution LWD imaging that may resolve various fine formation features such as fractures, fine bedding layers, breakout, and vugs.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: November 1, 2012Inventors: Joseph L. Hollmann, Andrew Kirkwood
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Publication number: 20120247198Abstract: Apparatus for making measurements in boreholes comprising a sonde having a radial array of arms provided thereon; wherein the sonde is connectable to a cartridge containing electronic circuitry specific to a predetermined measurement to be made in the borehole, each arm is connectable to a sensor pad specific to the predetermined measurement; and the sonde provides electrical connectivity between the sensor pads and the cartridge that is substantially independent of the predetermined measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: October 4, 2012Inventors: Charles Durbec, Olivier Faivre, Patrick Vessereau, Andrew Hayman
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Patent number: 8272260Abstract: Methods and apparatus for evaluating a formation include conveying a formation evaluation tool in a borehole on a tubular carrier extending from a surface location at least to the formation evaluation tool. A cable is conveyed to the formation evaluation tool and communication between the formation evaluation tool and the cable is established after the formation evaluation tool is moved to a selected borehole location.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2008Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Charles R. Jackson, Robert K. Moore
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Publication number: 20120227480Abstract: Techniques for determining at least one downhole parameter of a wellsite are provided. A sensor apparatus is operatively connectable to a downhole tool deployable into a borehole of the wellsite, the downhole tool having a conduit system for receiving downhole fluid. The sensor apparatus has a housing, at least one gauge, a gauge carrying body positionable in the housing for receiving the gauge, and a flowline extending through the gauge carrying body for operatively connecting the conduit system to the gauge whereby parameters of the downhole fluid are measured. The gauge has at least one pressure sensor and at least one temperature sensor. The gauge carrying body has a pressure resistant block and a thermal absorber positionable about the gauge.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventors: Alain Nguyen-Thuyet, Pierre-Marie Petit
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Patent number: 8244473Abstract: System and method for automatic analysis and determination of a parameter. Measurement data are obtained from one or more sensors deployed to measure a desired parameter, the data being associated to identified locations. The measured data are processed to parse out the data obtained with at least one sensor configured to provide a measurement of a selected subsurface parameter and examined to automatically output a value determined to be the most accurate value for the selected parameter from the obtained measurement data.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Richard J. Radtke, Robert Perchonok, Matthew McCoy
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Publication number: 20120199397Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating a pressure transition zone in a borehole is disclosed. A parameter indicative of formation fluid pressure at a plurality of borehole depths is measured. A global trend of the parameter is determined over a first depth interval and a local trend of the parameter is determined over a second depth interval. A relation is determined between the global trend and the local trend, and the pressure transition zone is determined from the determined relation between the determined global trend and the determined local trend.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2012Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Stefan Wessling, XiaoWei Wang, Anne Bartetzko, Jianyong Pei
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Publication number: 20120192640Abstract: A logging tool having a plurality of different sensor types having close spacings mounted on an articulated or extendible pad, a sleeve, a mandrel, a stabilizer, or some combination of those is provided and used to make measurements in a wellbore in a single logging run. Those measurements are used to create images of the wellbore and the images are used to deduce the local geology, optimize well placement, perform geomechanical investigation, optimize drilling operations, and perform formation evaluation. The logging tool includes a processor capable of making those measurements, creating those images, performing those operations, and making those determinations. The plurality of different sensors may be one or more resistivity sensors, dielectric sensors, acoustic sensors, ultrasonic sensors, caliper sensors, nuclear magnetic resonance sensors, natural spectral gamma ray sensors, spectroscopic sensors, cross-section capture sensors, and nuclear sensors, and they may be “plug-and-play” sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2011Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventors: Chanh Cao Minh, Daniel Codazzi, Ruben Martinez, Roger Griffiths, Kais B.M. Gzara, Qiming Li, Colin Michael Sayers, Reza Taherian
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Publication number: 20120180562Abstract: A logging tool for use in a wellbore having a sensor portion for making measurements. The tool has a sleeve enclosing the sensor portion and made of a material that is transparent to the measurements being made. One or more structural elements having physical characteristics different from the material comprising the sleeve are carried on the sleeve to enhance the mechanical properties of the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2011Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventors: ALICE SORBIER, James S. Almaguer