PRECISION ENERGY SERVICES, INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150331133 | MONOPOLE ACOUSTIC TRANSMITTER RING COMPRISING PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL - A monopole acoustic transmitter for logging-while-drilling comprising as a ring that comprises one or more piezoelectric arc segments. The ring is oriented in a plane whose normal is essentially coincident with the major axis of a logging tool in which it is disposed. The ring disposed within a recess on the outer surface of a short, cylindrical insert. The insert is inserted into a drill collar, rather than into the wall of the collar. The ring can comprise a continuous ring of piezoelectric material, or alternately arc segments or active ring segments of piezoelectric ceramic bonded to segments of other materials such as alumina to increase the frequency or heavy metals such as tungsten to reduce the frequency. The material and dimensions of the material used in-between the piezoelectric segments is chosen to alter the frequency of the ring. | 11-19-2015 |
20140345947 | Method for Minimizing Delays While Drilling Using a Magnetic Ranging Apparatus - A method and system is provided for minimizing delays in a magnetic ranging method. Delays are minimized by establishing synchronicity between triggering of a three-axis magnetometer and energisation of a solenoid assembly deployed in the borehole being drilled and the first borehole, respectively. Synchronicity enables measuring various components of the alternating magnetic field created by energisation of the solenoid assembly by the magnetometer, the moment the solenoid assembly is energised. The recorded components are used for computation of steering data for drilling the second borehole relative to the first borehole. The steering data can be determined at the surface or downhole. | 11-27-2014 |
20130175438 | Quaternary Photodetector for Downhole Optical Sensing - Detector assembly for downhole spectroscopy includes a near-infra-red quaternary photodiode that can operate at high temperatures without cooling it to the standard operation temperature range of the photodiode. High temperature operation of the photodiode right shifts the detector assembly's responsivity curve to include wavelengths of up to 2400-nm. The photodiode has manageable dark current at temperatures even at 200° C., and it can be packaged using high temperature construction. The photodiode is operated in photovoltaic mode at high temperatures but can be operated at photoconductive mode at lower temperatures. At least partial cooling can be provided above a predetermined temperature. | 07-11-2013 |
20130105222 | Sensor Mounting Assembly for Drill Collar Stabilizer | 05-02-2013 |
20130096835 | Clustering Process for Analyzing Pressure Gradient Data - Clustering analysis is used to partition data into similarity groups based on mathematical relationships between the measured variables. These relationships (or prototypes) are derived from the specific correlation required between the measured variables (data) and an environmental property of interest. The data points are partitioned into the prototype-driven groups (i.e., clusters) based on error minimization. Once the data is grouped, quantitative predictions and sensitivity analysis of the property of interest can be derived based on the computed prototypes. Additionally, the process inherently minimizes prediction errors due to the rigorous error minimization during data clustering while avoiding overfitting via algorithm parameterization. The application used to demonstrate the power of the method is pressure gradient analysis. | 04-18-2013 |
20130092439 | Analysis of Drillstring Dynamics Using an Angular Rate Sensor - Downhole drilling vibration analysis uses an angular rate sensor on a drilling assembly. During drilling operations, the sensor measures the angular rate of the drilling assembly. Processing circuitry is operatively coupled to the angular rate sensor and is configured to determine whether torsional type vibrations are occurring during drilling based on the angular rate data. Drilling operations can then be modified to overcome or mitigate the torsional type vibrations. | 04-18-2013 |
20130069656 | Borehole Resistivity Imager Using Discrete Energy Pulsing - A resistivity imager uses discrete energy pulsing to determine resistivity of a borehole. The imager has pulse generation circuitry that generates discrete energy pulses. An electrode array exposed to the borehole emits or discharges the discrete energy pulses into the formation. The variations of the formation subject the electrode to impedance levels in response to the discrete energy pulses, and measurement circuitry measures the discharge of the pulsed energy subjected to the impedances. From the measurements, control circuitry determines resistivity parameters of the formation around the borehole. These resistivity parameters can be stored in memory downhole or can be telemetered to the surface. When analyzed, the resistivity measurements can produce an image of the borehole's features, indicate borehole structures, direct geosteering of drilling, or the like. | 03-21-2013 |
20130049773 | Measurement Tool and Method of Use - This invention relates to a measurement tool and method of use, and in particular to a measurement tool for use in determining a parameter of a stationary or moving fluid. The measurement tool has been designed primarily for use in borehole formation testing. The measurement tool can measure the dielectric constant of a fluid within a pipe or surrounding the tool. The pipe or wall between the tool and the fluid is electrically insulating. The tool has pair of capacitor plates mounted adjacent to the pipe or wall, a signal generator which can deliver an alternating electrical signal to at least one of the capacitor plates, and a detector for measuring a signal dependent upon the electrical capacitance between the capacitor plates. The measurement tool can additionally measure the electrical resistivity of the fluid. | 02-28-2013 |
20130043076 | Rotary Steerable Assembly Inhibiting Counterclockwise Whirl During Directional Drilling - A bottom hole assembly avoids damaging vibrations that can develop during directional drilling with a rotary steerable system. The assembly has a drill bit, a first collar that rotates with the bit, a rotary steerable tool that controls the bit's trajectory, and a second collar that rotates with the drill string. The first collar between the bit and the tool defines a bend that deflects the bit from the first collar's axis. During operation, this bend causes portion of the assembly to engage the borehole wall to inhibit counterclockwise (CCW) bit whirl by promoting clockwise whirl in the assembly, generating friction against the borehole wall, and dampening vibrations. By inhibiting CCW bit whirl, other damaging vibrations such as CCW whirl in the drill string can also be prevented up the borehole. Alternatively, only the second collar between the tool and the drill string may define the bend, or both collars can define bends. | 02-21-2013 |
20130019672 | Autonomous Formation Pressure Test Process for Formation Evaluation Tool - A formation tester places an isolation device, preferably a probe, in fluid communication with a formation to determine formation pressures. The tester's controller uses a pressure pre-test process to autonomously control operation. The controller measures drawdown pressure and interval as the tester draws down pressure in flowline coupled to the probe. If the drawdown pressure indicates a dry test has occurred, the process is aborted. Otherwise, the controller measures buildup pressure and interval by allowing buildup of pressure of the flowline. The controller permits this to continue until the interval is longer than the drawdown interval and/or until a rate of the buildup falls below a predetermined rate. If the buildup pressure is too tight relative to the drawdown pressure, the controller aborts the test. Eventually, the controller measures a final buildup pressure when the buildup terminates. A new drawdown rate and volume can be determined for subsequent formation tests. | 01-24-2013 |
20120303326 | Reservoir Evaluation System - A reservoir evaluation system enables end users to plan jobs for performing formation tests at remote wellsites. In the planning, the end user defines the toolstring to be constructed at the remote wellsite by service personnel and defines the details for the formation tests to performed with the toolstring. While the tests are performed, the system obtains data via a satellite or other communication link with the remote wellsite and stores the data for retrieval and processing. The data measured from the formation tests conducted with the toolstring can be obtained in real time from the wellsite. The system processes the obtained data to produce analysis for the end user, who can then remotely access the data and analysis with a secure network connection via the Internet or the like. | 11-29-2012 |
20120298850 | Quaternary Photodetector for Downhole Optical Sensing - Detector assembly for downhole spectroscopy includes a near-infra-red quaternary photodiode that can operate at high temperatures without cooling it to the standard operation temperature range of the photodiode. High temperature operation of the photodiode right shifts the detector assembly's responsivity curve to include wavelengths of up to 2400-nm. The photodiode has manageable dark current at temperatures even at 200° C., and it can be packaged using high temperature construction. The photodiode is operated in photovoltaic mode at high temperatures but can be operated at photoconductive mode at lower temperatures. At least partial cooling can be provided above a predetermined temperature. | 11-29-2012 |
20120290209 | Downhole Drilling Vibration Analysis - Downhole drilling vibration analysis uses acceleration data measured in three orthogonal axes downhole while drilling to determine whether drilling assembly's efficiency has fallen to a point where the assembly needs to be pulled. In real or near real time, a downhole tool calculates impulse in at least one direction using the measured acceleration data over an acquisition period and determines whether the calculated impulse exceeds a predetermined acceleration threshold for the acquisition period. If the impulse exceeds the threshold, the tool pulses the impulse data to the surface where the calculated impulse is correlated to efficiency of the assembly as the drillstring is used to drill in real time. Based on the correlation, operators can determine whether to pull the assembly if excessive impulse occurs continuously over a predetermined penetration depth. | 11-15-2012 |
20120196690 | Drive Shaft Constant Velocity Joint Assembly with Radial Elliptical Projections - A driveshaft assembly includes a driveshaft with a pair of constant velocity joints disposed at each end of the driveshaft. Each of the constant velocity joints provides torque transfer from the driveshaft to an adapter disposed to driveshaft using a plurality of elliptical projections that mate with interior grooves of the adapter. Stress concentration on the projections may be reduced in some embodiments by providing a variable radius fillet around each of the projections at the intersection of the projection with the driveshaft. | 08-02-2012 |
20120194195 | Magnetic Ranging Method and Apparatus - A method and system is provided for minimizing delays in a magnetic ranging method. Delays are minimized by establishing synchronicity between triggering of a three-axis magnetometer and energisation of a solenoid assembly deployed in the borehole being drilled and the first borehole, respectively. Synchronicity enables measuring various components of the alternating magnetic field created by energisation of the solenoid assembly by the magnetometer, the moment the solenoid assembly is energised. The recorded components are used for computation of steering data for drilling the second borehole relative to the first borehole. The steering data can be determined at the surface or downhole. | 08-02-2012 |
20120081699 | Downhole Gas Breakout Sensor - A downhole fluid analysis tool has a housing and a flow passage for downhole fluid. A device disposed in the tool housing relative to the flow passage has a one or more sources, one or more sensing optics, one or more detectors, and control circuitry. The source generates an input signal. The sensing optic has a refractive index (RI) higher than crude oil and other expected constituents. A sensing surface of the optic optically coupled to the source interfaces with a downhole fluid. When the variable RI of the downhole fluid reaches a defined relationship to the optic's RI, the input signal interacting with the sensing surface experiences total internal reflection, and the reflected signal from the sensing surface remains in the sensing optic and reflects to a detector. The control circuitry monitors the detector's response and indicates gas break out if the response is above a threshold. | 04-05-2012 |
20120081698 | Refractive Index Sensor for Fluid Analysis - A refractive index sensor having one or more sources, an adaptive optical element or scanner, imaging optics, a sensing optic, and one or more detectors. The scanner impinges a signal from the source into the sensing optic and onto a sensor-sample interface at sequential angles of incidence. The detector response increases dramatically to signals reflected from the interface at corresponding sequential angles of reflection equal to or greater than a critical angle. The refractive index sensor also uses an input lens between the scanner and the sensing optic and uses an output lens between the sensing optic and the detector. A processor controls the sensor and can determine index of refraction of the fluid sample based on the detector response and scan rate. The sensor can be used in several operational environments from a laboratory to a downhole tool, such as a formation tester to determine properties in a borehole environment. | 04-05-2012 |
20120039151 | MUD PULSE TELEMETRY SYNCHRONOUS TIME AVERAGING SYSTEM - Apparatus and methods for removing the effects of directional drilling systems drilling fluid pulses to allow a MWD mud pulse telemetry system to operate without interference. The methodology is based upon Synchronous Time Averaging (STA). With STA, any pressure fluctuation that is cyclical (or synchronous) with a measurable event can be profiled and subsequently subtracted from a mud pulse telemetry signal. STA functions by placing a strobe in such a manner that the strobe is triggered for each cyclical event. The cyclical event in this disclosure is one (or more) revolution(s) of the drill string. If there is a pressure fluctuation that correlates to that cyclical event, it will be identified by a stable profile of that pressure fluctuation. This pressure profile is then used to remove the cyclical pressure fluctuation from the input mud pulse telemetry signal thereby allowing normal operation of the mud pulse telemetry system. | 02-16-2012 |
20120026831 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING FORMATION ANISOTROPY WHILE DRILLING - A logging system for measuring anisotrophic properties of the materials penetrated by a borehole. A downhole or “logging tool” element of the system comprises a source section that comprises either a unipole or a dipole acoustic source. The receiver section comprises a plurality of receiver stations disposed at different axial spacings from the acoustic source. Each receiver station comprises one or more acoustic receivers. The system requires that the source and receiver sections rotate synchronously as the logging tool is conveyed along the borehole. Receiver responses are measured in a plurality of azimuthal angle segments and processed as a function of rotation angle of the tool. The logging system can be embodied as a logging-while-drilling system, a measurement-while-drilling system, and a wireline system that synchronously rotates source and receiver sections. All embodiments require that the acoustic source operate at a relatively high frequency. | 02-02-2012 |
20120000709 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING PERIODIC PERTURBATION OF THE DRILL BIT - Disclosed herein is a system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying action of a drill bit while continuously rotating a drill string to which the drill bit is operationally attached. The steering system can include a bit perturbation device cooperating with a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to the drill string and to the drill bit. Drill bit action can be varied by periodically varying the rotation speed and/or rate of penetration of the drill bit. Periodic drill bit action results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, results in borehole deviation. Action of the drill bit can be varied independently of the rotation rate of the drill string. | 01-05-2012 |
20110251796 | Multi-Well Interference Testing and In-Situ Reservoir Behavior Characterization - Using multi-well testing, operators can characterize a reservoir and its in-situ behavior using direct measurements of reservoir pressures. One or more impulses are generated in an impulse well or location using production, injections, or the like. Downhole pressure tools directly measure pressure responses at various observations wells in the reservoir. Based on the magnitudes of the responses, the distances between the wells, the time lag between responses, and other variables, operators can characterize the pressure distribution of the reservoir and various features, such as the connectivity and extent of the reservoir, barriers, faults, obstructions, pools, communication paths, layer contacts, and well spacing efficiency. | 10-13-2011 |
20110187373 | STEERABLE MAGNETIC DIPOLE ANTENNA FOR MEASUREMENT-WHILE-DRILLING APPLICATIONS - A steerable or non-steerable, magnetic dipole antenna for Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) or Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) applications. The antenna elements use a hole arrangement in addition to grooves in a steel tool body, which is typically a drill collar. This antenna embodiment is extremely robust, meaning that does not significantly reduce the structural integrity of the tool body in which it is disposed. The antenna embodiment is also relatively wear resistant. The resultant magnetic dipole generated by this antenna is also electrically steerable in inclination angle from a common origin. A variable dipole moment inclination angle combined with independently measured tool rotation orientation during normal drilling allows the antenna to generate a magnetic dipole moment that may be directed at any three dimensional angle and from a common origin point at the centroid of the antenna. The antenna can also be embodied to be more sensitive to resitivity in a particular azimuthal direction. | 08-04-2011 |
20110147083 | Analyzing Toolface Velocity to Detect Detrimental Vibration During Drilling - A downhole drilling vibration analysis involves measuring orientation data in at least two orthogonal axes downhole while drilling with a drilling assembly. For example, two orthogonal magnetometers can be used. A toolface of the drilling assembly is determined using the measured sensor data, and velocity (RPM) values for the toolface for a plurality of revolutions of the drilling assembly are determined. From these determined values, a coefficient of variation for the toolface velocity (RPM) values for the revolutions of the drilling assembly is calculated. When a pattern in found in the toolface velocity (RPM) and/or the calculated coefficient of variations exceed one or more thresholds, the processing device determines that detrimental vibrations are occurring in the drilling assembly. | 06-23-2011 |
20110108721 | Filter Wheel Assembly for Downhole Spectroscopy - A downhole fluid analysis tool has a tool housing and a fluid analysis device. The tool housing is deployable downhole and has at least one flow passage for a fluid sample. The fluid analysis device is disposed in the tool housing relative to the flow passage. Inside the device, one or more sources generate a combined input electromagnetic signal across a spectrum of wavelengths, and a routing assembly routes generated signals into the reference and measurement signals. At least one wheel having a plurality of filters is rotated to selectively interpose one or more of the filters in the paths of the reference and measurement signals. | 05-12-2011 |
20110108720 | Multi-Channel Detector Assembly for Downhole Spectroscopy - A multi-channel detector assembly for downhole spectroscopy has a reference detector unit optically coupled to a reference channel of a source and has a measurement detector unit optically coupled to a measurement channel of the source. The reference and measurement detectors detect spectral signals across a spectral range of wavelengths from the reference and measurement channels. Conversion circuitry converts the detected spectral signals into reference signals and measurement signals, and control circuitry processes the reference and measurements signals based on a form of encoding used by the source. Then, the control circuitry can control the output of spectral signals from the source based on the processed signals or scale the measurement signal to correct for source fluctuations or changes in environmental conditions. | 05-12-2011 |
20110108719 | Multi-Channel Source Assembly for Downhole Spectroscopy - A multi-channel source assembly for downhole spectroscopy has individual sources that generate optical signals across a spectral range of wavelengths. A combining assembly optically combines the generated signals into a combined signal and a routing assembly that splits the combined signal into a reference channel and a measurement channel. Control circuitry electrically coupled to the sources modulates each of the sources at unique or independent frequencies during operation. | 05-12-2011 |
20110108327 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING PERIODIC PERTURBATION OF THE DRILL BIT - Disclosed herein is a system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying action of a drill bit while continuously rotating a drill string to which the drill bit is operationally attached. The steering system can include a bit perturbation device cooperating with a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to the drill string and to the drill bit. Drill bit action can be varied by periodically varying the rotation speed and/or rate of penetration of the drill bit. Periodic drill bit action results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, results in borehole deviation. Action of the drill bit can be varied independently of the rotation rate of the drill string. | 05-12-2011 |
20110084699 | STEERABLE MAGNETIC DIPOLE ANTENNA FOR MEASUREMENT-WHILE-DRILLING APPLICATIONS - A steerable or non-steerable, magnetic dipole antenna for Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) or Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) applications. The antenna elements use a hole arrangement in addition to grooves in a steel tool body, which is typically a drill collar. This antenna embodiment is extremely robust, meaning that does not significantly reduce the structural integrity of the tool body in which it is disposed. The antenna embodiment is also relatively wear resistant. The resultant magnetic dipole generated by this antenna is also electrically steerable in inclination angle from a common origin. A variable dipole moment inclination angle combined with independently measured tool rotation orientation during normal drilling allows the antenna to generate a magnetic dipole moment that may be directed at any three dimensional angle and from a common origin point at the centroid of the antenna. The antenna can also be embodied to be more sensitive to resistivity in a particular azimuthal direction. | 04-14-2011 |
20110084698 | STEERABLE MAGNETIC DIPOLE ANTENNA FOR MEASUREMENT WHILE DRILLING APPLICATIONS - A steerable, magnetic dipole antenna for Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) or Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) applications. The antenna elements use a hole arrangement in addition to grooves in a steel tool body, which is typically a drill collar. This antenna embodiment is extremely robust, meaning that does not significantly reduce the structural integrity of the tool body in which it is disposed. The antenna embodiment is also relatively wear resistant. The resultant magnetic dipole generated by this antenna is also electrically steerable in inclination angle from a common origin. A variable dipole moment inclination angle combined with independently measured tool rotation orientation during normal drilling allows the antenna to generate a magnetic dipole moment that may be directed at any three dimensional angle and from a common origin point at the centroid of the antenna. The antenna can also be embodied to be more sensitive to resitivity in a particular azimuthal direction. | 04-14-2011 |
20110084697 | STEERABLE MAGNETIC DIPOLE ANTENNA FOR MEASUREMENT WHILE DRILLING APPLICATIONS - A steerable, magnetic dipole antenna for Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) or Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) applications. The antenna elements use a hole arrangement in addition to grooves in a steel tool body, which is typically a drill collar. This antenna embodiment is extremely robust, meaning that does not significantly reduce the structural integrity of the tool body in which it is disposed. The antenna embodiment is also relatively wear resistant. The resultant magnetic dipole generated by this antenna is also electrically steerable in inclination angle from a common origin. A variable dipole moment inclination angle combined with independently measured tool rotation orientation during normal drilling allows the antenna to generate a magnetic dipole moment that may be directed at any three dimensional angle and from a common origin point at the centroid of the antenna. | 04-14-2011 |
20110051556 | MONOPOLE ACOUSTIC TRANSMITTER RING COMPRISING PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL - A monopole acoustic transmitter for logging-while-drilling comprising as a ring that comprises one or more piezoelectric arc segments. The ring is oriented in a plane whose normal is essentially coincident with the major axis of a logging tool in which it is disposed. The ring disposed within a recess on the outer surface of a short, cylindrical insert. The insert is inserted into a drill collar, rather than into the wall of the collar. The ring can comprise a continuous ring of piezoelectric material, or alternately arc segments or active ring segments of piezoelectric ceramic bonded to segments of other materials such as alumina to increase the frequency or heavy metals such as tungsten to reduce the frequency. The material and dimensions of the material used in-between the piezoelectric segments is chosen to alter the frequency of the ring. | 03-03-2011 |
20100263933 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING MODULATED BIT ROTATION - A system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying the rotation speed of the drill bit. The steering system comprises a motor disposed in a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to a drill string and to the drill bit. The rotation speed of the drill bit is periodically varied by periodic varying the rotation speed of the motor or by periodic varying the rotation speed of the drill string. Periodic bit speed rotation results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, resulting in borehole deviation. Both the drill string and the drill motor are rotated simultaneously during straight and deviated borehole drilling. | 10-21-2010 |
20100163308 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING PERIODIC PERTURBATION OF THE DRILL BIT - A system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying action of a drill bit while continuously rotating a drill string to which the drill bit is operationally attached. The steering system comprises a bit perturbation device cooperating with a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to the drill string and to the drill bit. Drill bit action is varied by periodic varying the rotation speed or rate of penetration of the drill bit. Periodic drill bit action results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, resulting in borehole deviation. Action of the drill bit can be varied independent of the rotation rate of the drill string | 07-01-2010 |
20100109906 | MEMORY LOGGING SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING THE CONDITION OF A SLIDING SLEEVE - A memory logging system for determining the status of a sliding sleeve valve disposed within the borehole. The sliding sleeve contains signal inducing devices. A logging tool is conveyed through the sliding sleeve and time intervals between sensor excursions induced by the sleeve's signal inducing devices are recorded and stored within the tool memory. These data are subsequently recovered when the tool is returned to the surface of the earth, and sensor excursion data are processed in a surface processor to ascertain relative axial positions of the sliding sleeve outer housing and the insert. The condition of the sliding sleeve is determined from these relative axial positions. | 05-06-2010 |
20100082256 | Downhole Drilling Vibration Analysis - Downhole drilling vibration analysis uses acceleration data measured in three orthogonal axes downhole while drilling to determine whether drilling assembly's efficiency has fallen to a point where the assembly needs to be pulled. In real or near real time, a downhole tool calculates impulse in at least one direction using the measured acceleration data over an acquisition period and determines whether the calculated impulse exceeds a predetermined acceleration threshold for the acquisition period. If the impulse exceeds the threshold, the tool pulses the impulse data to the surface where the calculated impulse is correlated to efficiency of the assembly as the drillstring is used to drill in real time. Based on the correlation, operators can determine whether to pull the assembly if excessive impulse occurs continuously over a predetermined penetration depth. | 04-01-2010 |
20100049443 | DATA REDUCTION OF IMAGES MEASURED IN A BOREHOLE - A data reduction method for transmission of a borehole image to the surface of the earth using restricted band widths of LWD telemetry systems. The data reduction method is based on the measurement physics rather than mathematical compression algorithms. Measured data from a sensor are fitted, within the logging tool, to a response function relating sensor response to a parameter of interest. The coefficients of the fitted response function are scaled and then telemetered to the surface. The measured data are reconstructed at the surface by combining the telemetered coefficients with the response function. A borehole image is formed by combining reconstructed reduced data. Parameters of dipping beds intersecting the borehole can be determined from the coefficients. | 02-25-2010 |
20100020638 | MONOPOLE ACOUSTIC TRANSMITTER RING COMPRISING PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL - A monopole acoustic transmitter for logging-while-drilling comprising as a ring that comprises one or more piezoelectric arc segments. The ring is oriented in a plane whose normal is essentially coincident with the major axis of a logging tool in which it is disposed. The ring disposed within a recess on the outer surface of a short, cylindrical insert. The insert is inserted into a drill collar, rather than into the wall of the collar. The ring can comprise a continuous ring of piezoelectric material, or alternately arc segments or active ring segments of piezoelectric ceramic bonded to segments of other materials such as alumina to increase the frequency or heavy metals such as tungsten to reduce the frequency. The material and dimensions of the material used in-between the piezoelectric segments is chosen to alter the frequency of the ring. | 01-28-2010 |
20100018304 | IN SITU MEASUREMENTS IN FORMATION TESTING TO DETERMINE TRUE FORMATION RESISTIVITY - A borehole formation testing system that measures resistivity of near borehole formation in situ rather than the measuring resistivity of fluid drawn into a formation tester tool. A radially extendable probe assembly contacts and forms a hydraulic seal with the wall of a borehole using a pad. Electrode contacts are disposed on the contact surface of the pad and electrically contact the near borehole formation. Response of the electrode contacts are used to determine resistivity of the near borehole formation. This resistivity is with a deeper formation resistivity measurement to determine if virgin formation fluid is at or in the vicinity of the pad. Alternately, a plurality of resistivity measurements is made at the formation tester pad and virgin formation fluid at or near the pad is determined from the rate of change of the plurality of resistivity measurements. | 01-28-2010 |
20090296084 | BOREHOLE MEASUREMENTS USING A FAST AND HIGH ENERGY RESOLUTION GAMMA RAY DETECTOR ASSEMBLY - A gamma ray detector assembly for a borehole logging system that requires the measure of gamma radiation with optimized gamma ray energy resolution and with fast emission times required to obtain meaningful measurements in high radiation fields. The detector assembly comprises a lanthanum bromide (LaBr3) scintillation crystal and a digital spectrometer that cooperates with the crystal to maximize pulse processing throughput by digital filtering and digital pile-up inspection of the pulses. The detector assembly is capable of digital pulse measurement and digital pile-up inspection with dead-time less than 600 nanoseconds per event. Pulse height can be accurately measured (corrected for pile-up effects) for 2 pulses separated by as little as 150 nanoseconds. Although the invention is applicable to virtually any borehole logging methodology that uses the measure of gamma radiation in harsh borehole conditions, the invention is particularly applicable to carbon/oxygen logging. | 12-03-2009 |
20090266610 | DETERMINATION OF AZIMUTHAL OFFSET AND RADIUS OF CURVATURE IN A DEVIATED BOREHOLE USING PERIODIC DRILL STRING TORQUE MEASUREMENTS - Methods and apparatus for determining the direction of borehole azimuthal offset and the borehole radius of curvature. Rotation rate of a borehole assembly is measured and mathematically converted into azimuthal torque imparted to the borehole assembly. Relative azimuthal offset is determined from variations in azimuthal torque over a rotation cycle of the borehole assembly. Relative radius of curvature is obtained from the magnitude of azimuthal torque over a rotation cycle. Relative azimuthal offset is converted to true azimuthal offset using an independent reference angle measurement. Relative borehole curvature is converted to true radius of curvature using a calibration constant determined in known borehole conditions. | 10-29-2009 |
20090237267 | DOWNHOLE TELEMETRY THROUGH MULTI-CONDUCTOR WIRELINE - A logging tool has three seismic sensors that generate seismic signals in response to microseismic events and can be a Triaxial Borehole Seismic system. The tool also has additional sensors, such as a wireline tension measuring circuit, a gamma ray sensor, an inclinometer, and a gyroscope. The tool deploys downhole with a multi-conductor (i.e., seven conductor) wireline. For the seismic signals, a telemetry unit on the tool derives frequency-modulated carrier signals from the seismic signals, and a transformer of the unit transmits these carrier signals to surface acquisition equipment using cross-wired pairs of conductors in the wireline connected to the transformer's terminals. For the signals from the other sensors, the telemetry unit derives analog carrier signals from their signals and transmits the analog carrier signals to the surface acquisition equipment using remaining conductors of the wireline. | 09-24-2009 |
20090204329 | SIMULTANEOUS ANALYSIS OF TWO DATA SETS FROM A FORMATION TEST - Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and devices for determining parameters of an earth formation. Pressure transient data from a formation test can be recorded and analyzed using an analytical model including one or more correction factors derived from an assumption that an induced flow within the formation is hemispherical. Regression analysis of the refined analytical model and the pressure transient data results in accurate earth formation parameters. | 08-13-2009 |
20090193889 | MEASUREMENT TOOL AND METHOD OF USE - This invention relates to a measurement tool, and in particular to a measurement tool for use in determining the density and/or viscosity of a stationary or moving fluid. The measurement tool has been designed for use in borehole applications during the location and exploitation of oil and gas reserves. The measurement tool has a resilient pipe with a substantially uniform cross-section along its length, and the fluid is located within the pipe. The pipe carries an exciter which is connected to a signal generator, the exciter and signal generator being adapted to impart transverse and/or rotational oscillations to the pipe. Measuring the frequency of the oscillations can be used to determine the density and/or the viscosity of the fluid within the pipe. | 08-06-2009 |
20090152456 | BOREHOLE TESTER APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR USING NUCLEAR ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION TO DETERMINE FLUID PROPERTIES - Apparatus and methods for determining one or more fluid parameters of interest by irradiating fluid with a source of nuclear electromagnetic radiation and subsequently measuring attenuation and absorption properties of the fluid from which parameters of interest are determined. Measurements are made with a formation tester tool comprising preferably two functionally configured flow lines. The source simultaneously irradiates fluid contained in opposing irradiation sections that can be integral sections of each of the two flow lines. A radiation detector is dedicated to each irradiation section and measures radiation attenuation and absorption properties fluid contained within each flow line section. Absolute and relative fluid parameters of interest are determined from the responses of the two radiation detectors. | 06-18-2009 |
20090129203 | MONOPOLE ACOUSTIC TRANSMITTER COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF PIEZOELECTRIC DISCS - A monopole acoustic transmitter with at least one disc assembly with a plurality of piezoelectric discs configured to optimized acoustic pressure output within a desired frequency range while meeting physical restrictions of LWD and MWD logging systems. The transmitter is disposed in a recess or “slot” in the perimeter of a logging tool housing to reduce acoustic pressure waves transmitted directly along the tool housing and to optimize acoustic energy transmission into the borehole environs. In order to increase acoustic pressure output at a desired logging frequency range, the plurality of piezoelectric discs in each of at least one disc assembly are connected electrically in parallel and fired simultaneously. The polarity of the discs and the wiring arrangement are such that each disc expands or contracts in a common direction during simultaneous firing by an applied voltage. The desired output frequency is obtained by selectively polarizing and dimensioning the discs within the one or more disc assemblies. Each disc assembly is preferably disposed within an oil filled pressure housing that is pressure and temperature compensated. The axis of the at least one disc assembly can be parallel or perpendicular to the major axis of the logging tool. | 05-21-2009 |
20090086575 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LOGGING FOAM CEMENT IN CASED BOREHOLES - An acoustic logging system that measures distribution of foam cement and other material in a casing-borehole annulus. The distribution is preferably displayed as map. A borehole tool utilizes at least one acoustic transducer with a known frequency response and mounted on a rotating scanning head that is pointed essentially perpendicular to the borehole wall. The response of the transducer is used to measure an original impedance map of material within the borehole-casing annulus. A fast Fourier transform is used to generate a FFT map from the data comprising the original impedance map. The original impedance map is then combined with the FFT map using logic rules to obtain a final impedance map that is indicative of material within the casing-borehole annulus. | 04-02-2009 |
20090085583 | MEASUREMENT TOOL AND METHOD OF USE - This invention relates to a measurement tool and method of use, and in particular to a measurement tool for use in determining a parameter of a stationary or moving fluid. The measurement tool has been designed primarily for use in borehole formation testing. The measurement tool can measure the dielectric constant of a fluid within a pipe or surrounding the tool. The pipe or wall between the tool and the fluid is electrically insulating. The tool has pair of capacitor plates mounted adjacent to the pipe or wall, a signal generator which can deliver an alternating electrical signal to at least one of the capacitor plates, and a detector for measuring a signal dependent upon the electrical capacitance between the capacitor plates. The measurement tool can additionally measure the electrical resistivity of the fluid. | 04-02-2009 |
20090071240 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR MEASURING PRESSURE USING A FORMATION TESTER - A system for measuring pressure in a well borehole using two pressure sensing gauges that are exposed to an area of common pressure. Pressure measurements are made with preferably two pressure gauge assemblies each containing a single pressure sensing gauge. The two pressure gauge assemblies are removably disposed within a receptacle or “pocket” in the outer surface of a wall of a formation tester tool section. When disposed or “side loaded” in the pocket, the gauges within the pair of assemblies are axially aligned and positioned in a plane that is normal to the radius of the formation tester tool section. Both pressure sensing gauges can be connected to respond to the same fluid pressure originating from a probe or port section of a formation tester tool. By disposing the pressure gauge assemblies in a receptacle or “pocket” in the outer surface or wall of a formation tester tool section, the pressure sensing gauges are exposed to wellbore fluids. Pressure sensing gauges are selected to have low mass. The low mass of the gauges and a cooperating heater assembly allow the pressure gauges to rapidly thermally stabilize with changing temperatures in the wellbore. | 03-19-2009 |
20090063055 | System and Method for Obtaining and Using Downhole Data During Well Control Operations - In a well control system and method, a tool driver on a toolstring is configured to activate a telemetry tool in response to a predetermined threshold of accelerometer data measured by an accelerometer. For example, the predetermined accelerometer data threshold preferably corresponds to an acceleration level expected while drilling mud is being pumped at a slow pump rate of a well control operation through the drill pipe of the well. When a fluid influx occurs during drilling, the well is shut-in so that the tool driver turns off the telemetry tool. The drill pipe and casing pressures of the shut-in well are obtained. Then, drilling mud having a first weight is pumped into the drill pipe at a slow mud pump rate. Because the tool driver is set to activate the telemetry tool in response to accelerometer data at the slow pump rate, the telemetry tool begins sending downhole pressure data to the surface. In this way, rig operations can change the mud weight and adjust the choke line during the kill operation based on an analysis of the downhole pressure data obtained during the well control operation. | 03-05-2009 |
20090057018 | DIRECTIONAL DRILLING CONTROL USING MODULATED BIT ROTATION - A system for steering the direction of a borehole advanced by cutting action of a rotary drill bit by periodically varying the rotation speed of the drill bit. The steering system comprises a motor disposed in a bent housing subsection and operationally connected to a drill string and to the drill bit. The rotation speed of the drill bit is periodically varied by periodic varying the rotation speed of the motor or by periodic varying the rotation speed of the drill string. Periodic bit speed rotation results in preferential cutting of material from a predetermined arc of the borehole wall which, in turn, resulting in borehole deviation. Both the drill string and the drill motor are rotated simultaneously during straight and deviated borehole drilling. | 03-05-2009 |
20090022011 | ACOUSTIC TRANSMITTER COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF PIEZOELECTRIC PLATES - An acoustic transmitter with preferably a plurality of piezoelectric plates configured to optimized acoustic pressure output within a desired frequency range while meeting physical restrictions of LWD and MWD logging systems. The transmitter is disposed in a recess in the perimeter of a logging tool housing to reduce acoustic pressure waves transmitted directly along the tool housing and to optimize acoustic energy transmission into the borehole environs. In order to increase acoustic pressure output at a desired logging frequency range, the plurality of piezoelectric plates are connected electrically in parallel and fired simultaneously. The polarity of the plates and the wiring arrangement are such that each plate expands or contracts in a common direction during simultaneous firing by an applied voltage. The desired output frequency is obtained by selectively polarizing and dimensioning the plates within the plate assembly. The plate assembly is preferably disposed within an oil filled pressure housing that is pressure and temperature compensated. | 01-22-2009 |
20080236834 | WIRELINE BAILING SYSTEM FOR REMOVING LARGE VOLUMES OF LIQUID FROM A BOREHOLE - An electrical wireline conveyed baling system for removing large volumes of liquids from a well borehole with a single trip of a bailer tool string. The system also utilizes one or more blow out preventers thereby allowing wireline bailing operations to be carried out while controlling well pressure. A bailer tool string that is conveyed by the wireline comprises a tool head containing a pump, at least one carrier section, and a no-return valve. Once deployed in the borehole, a first signal transmitted via the wireline from the surface activates the pump thereby reducing pressure within the carrier section. A second signal transmitted via the wireline from the surface opens the no-return valve thereby allowing liquid to flow from the borehole into the carrier section. The bailer tool string containing liquid is subsequently retrieved via the wireline thereby removing liquid from the borehole. A plurality of carrier sections can be axially stacked and deployed thereby increasing liquid bailing capacity while still maintaining well pressure control. | 10-02-2008 |
20080224707 | Array Antenna for Measurement-While-Drilling - An electromagnetic antenna for Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) applications is disclosed. The antenna can include several array elements that can act alone or together in various measurement modes. The antenna elements can be disposed in tool body recesses to be protected from damage. The antenna elements can include a ferrite plate crossed or looped by independent current carrying conductors in two or more directions forming a bi-directional or crossed magnetic dipole. Although disclosed as a MWD system conveyed by a drill string, basic concepts of the system are applicable to other types of borehole conveyance. | 09-18-2008 |
20080210470 | System and Method for Reservoir Characterization Using Underbalanced Drilling Data - In an underbalanced drilling system and method, a change is induced in flowing bottom hole pressure in a wellbore. Data of the surface flow rate of effluent is then measured in response to the induced change. This measured data is obtained using a multi-phase flow meter before a separator of the underbalanced drilling system. Algorithms in computer software analyze the flowing bottomhole pressure and the measured surface flow rate data and determine both permeability and formation pressure for a portion of the wellbore in real-time during the underbalanced drilling operation. Ultimately, portion of the wellbore is characterized with the determined permeability and formation pressure. | 09-04-2008 |