Michael A Norris

US Patent:

7104331, Sep 12, 2006

Filed:

Nov 7, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/289714

Inventors:

Terry R. Bussear - Round Rock TX, US
Michael A. Carmody - Houston TX, US
Steve L. Jennings - Friendswood TX, US
Don A. Hopmann - La Porte TX, US
Michael Norris - Cypress TX, US

Assignee:

Baker Hughes Incorporated - Houston TX

International Classification:

E21B 34/06
E21B 43/12
G01V 8/24

US Classification:

166373, 166 66, 166 666, 3408538, 3408547, 25022716

Abstract:

An apparatus and methods are disclosed for using optical sensors to determine the position of a movable flow control element in a well control tool. A housing has a movable element disposed within such that the element movement controls the flow through the tool. An optical sensing system senses the movement of the element. Optical sensors are employed that use Bragg grating reflections, time domain reflectometry, and line scanning techniques to determine the element position. A surface or downhole processor is used to interpret the sensor signals.

US Patent:

20020179364, Dec 5, 2002

Filed:

Jan 15, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/047728

Inventors:

Terry Bussear - Round Rock TX, US
Michael Norris - Cypress TX, US

Assignee:

Baker Hughes Incorporated - Houston TX

International Classification:

G01V001/00

US Classification:

181/108000, 181/113000, 181/122000

Abstract:

A system and method for utilizing a surface located oscillator to generate seismic signals at a downhole location. The system includes a vibratory source for generating axial vibrational energy in a tubular string anchored in the borehole at a suitable location. The vibratory source may be operated at a predetermined frequency or may generate a swept frequency signal. The axial vibrations are transmitted through the tubular string and impart a seismic signal through the anchor to the formation.. In different configurations, the system imparts broadband seismic signals into the formation. Sensors are mounted on the vibratory source and downhole anchor for monitoring the system operation. Seismic receivers are deployed on the surface, in offset wells, or in the source well. Signals from the receivers are transmitted to a control unit. The control unit utilizes the sensor and receiver signals to control the operation of the vibratory source.