US3982591A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Downhole recovery system
Assignee: World Energy Systems Inc
•
Filing: 1974-12-20
•
Granted: 1976-09-28
•
Expires: 1994-12-20
Abstract
Abstract The specification discloses a recovery process and system wherein hydrogen and oxygen are introduced into a vented pressure vessel, known as a gas generator, located at the bottom of a borehole, and ignited and burned to produce steam. The hydrogen and oxygen may be introduced either as a stoichiometric mixture or the combustible mixture may be hydrogen-rich. The gas generator comprises a cooling annulus surrounding a combustion and mixing zone for cooling the gas generator and the combustion products. Hydrogen or water may be supplied to the cooling annulus for cooling purposes. Remotely controlled valves are located downhole near the gas generator for positive control to the gas generator of the hydrogen and oxygen and of the water, if it is employed for cooling purposes. The well casing is sealed just above the gas generator by an inflatable packer. Provision is made for maintaining the desired hydrogen-oxygen ratio either by a hydrogen flow control slaved to a downhole thermocouple or by a special hydrogen-oxygen flow control employed in the event that ignition is carried out by a DC power supply located downhole. Although the preferred embodiment employs a fuel-oxidizer cooling fluid combination of hydrogen and oxygen or hydrogen, oxygen, and water, provision is made for employing other fuel-oxidizer-cooling fluid combinations.
Inventors
- 👤 Joseph T. Hamrick
- 👤 Leslie C. Rose
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 19:23
CPC Classifications
E; E21; E21B; E21B36/00; E21B34/00; E21B34/16; E21B36/001; E21B36/02
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 65
Claim 1
Independent Claim
195 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, and valve means remotely controllable from the surface and located in said borehole near said gas generator for separately controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said valve means when located in the borehole near said gas generator being
Claim 2
Independent Claim
195 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, and valve means remotely controllable from the surface and located in said borehole near said gas generator for separately controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said valve means when located in the borehole near said gas generator being
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
73 words
The system of claim 1 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, a source of hydrogen coupled to said fuel conduit means for supplying hydrogen to said inlet end of said gas generator, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
82 words
The system of claim 2 comprising means coupled to said fuel conduit means and to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator to form a hydrogen-rich combustible mixture in said combustion zone and to maintain the temperature of the gases and fluids flowing through said outlet at a desired temperature level, said hydrogen-rich combustible mixture being defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for complete combustion with the oxygen present.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
6 words
The system of claim 1 comprising:
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 4 wherein said valve means comprises: separate passages for the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid respectfully, and
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
6 words
The system of claim 5 comprising:
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
136 words
The system of claim 5 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying oxidizing fluid comprises oxidizing fluid conduit means, a source of fuel located at the surface and coupled to said fuel conduit means, a source of oxidizing fluid located at the surface and coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means, an uphole valve means coupled to said fuel conduit means at the surface and having a variable opening for controlling the quantity of fuel flowing from said source through said fuel conduit means, and an uphole valve means located at the surface and coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means and having a variable opening for controlling the quantity of oxidizing fluid flowing from said oxidizing fluid source
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
6 words
The system of claim 7 comprising:
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
134 words
The system of claim 1 wherein: said means, including said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator comprises a fuel supply and a fuel flow control located at the surface, said means, including said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator comprises an oxidizing fluid supply and an oxidizing fluid flow control located at the surface, heat sensitive means supported by said gas generator for sensing the temperature thereof, and means located at the surface and coupled to said heat sensitive means and to said fuel control and responsive to the temperature sensed by said heat sensitive means for controlling the quantity of fuel flowing through said
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
43 words
The system of claim 9 comprising: an ignition control located at the surface and coupled to said igniter of said gas generator for controlling the actuation of said igniter and hence the ignition of combustible gases in said combustion zone of said gas
Claim 12
Independent Claim
200 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, and valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said gas generator including means for diverting a portion of said fuel for flow into said annulus for allowing said fuel to be used as a cooling
Claim 13
Independent Claim
200 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, and valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said gas generator including means for diverting a portion of said fuel for flow into said annulus for allowing said fuel to be used as a cooling
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
37 words
The system of claim 1 comprising: means including conduit means for supplying a cooling fluid to said gas generator for flow into said cooling annulus, said valve means being adapted to separately control the flow of cooling
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
73 words
The system of claim 13 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, a source of hydrogen coupled to said fuel conduit means for supplying hydrogen to said inlet ends of said gas generator, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
71 words
The system of claim 13 wherein: said conduit extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing conduit means, a source of ammonia coupled to said fuel conduit means for supplying ammonia to said inlet end of said gas generator, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
111 words
The system of claim 13 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises a separate oxidizing fluid conduit extending from the surface through said borehole to said gas generator, said gas generator is supported by housing structure, means coupled to said housing structure and extending from the surface for supporting said housing structure and hence said gas generator in the borehole, a flexible packer supported around said housing structure and adapted to be inflated outward against the walls of the borehole, and a passage leading from said oxidizing fluid conduit and including means coupled to said packer for allowing the pressure of said oxidizing fluid
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
73 words
The system of claim 12 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, a source of hydrogen coupled to said fuel conduit means for supplying hydrogen to said inlet end of said gas generator, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
11 words
The system of claim 17 wherein said cooling fluid is ammonium
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
12 words
The system of claim 12 comprising control means located at the surface
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
31 words
The system of claim 19 wherein: said valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator comprises separate passages for the flow of fuel, oxidizing fluid, and water respectively, and
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
6 words
The system of claim 20 comprising:
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
152 words
The system of claim 20 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, said conduit means for supplying a cooling fluid comprises a cooling fluid conduit means, a source of fuel located at the surface and coupled to said fuel conduit means, a source of oxidizing fluid located at the surface and coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means, an uphole valve coupled to said fuel conduit means at the surface and having a variable opening for controlling the quantity of fuel flowing from said fuel source through said fuel conduit means, and an uphole valve coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means at the surface and having a variable opening for controlling the quantity of oxidizing fluid flowing from said source of oxidizing fluid through said
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 22 comprising: means for opening said separate passages of said valve means located in
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
128 words
The system of claim 11 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises the walls of said borehole, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying said oxidizing fluid comprises a separate oxidizing fluid conduit extending from the surface through said borehole to said gas generator, said gas generator is supported by housing structure, cable means coupled to said housing structure and extending from the surface for supporting said housing structure and hence said gas generator in the borehole, a flexible packer supported around said housing structure and adapted to be inflated outward against the walls of the borehole, and a passage leading from said oxidizing fluid conduit and including means coupled to said packer for allowing the pressure of said oxidizing fluid
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
37 words
The system of claim 11 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
73 words
The system of claim 11 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, a source of ammonia coupled to said fuel conduit means for supplying ammonia to said inlet end of said gas generator, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
73 words
The system of claim 11 wherein: said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit means, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying an oxidizing fluid comprises an oxidizing fluid conduit means, a source of methane coupled to said fuel conduit means for supplying methane to said inlet end of said gas generator, and a source of oxygen coupled to said oxidizing fluid conduit means for
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
91 words
The system of claim 11 wherein: said generator is supported by housing structure, means coupled to said housing structure and extending to the surface for supporting said housing structure and hence said gas generator in the borehole, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprises a fuel conduit coupled to said gas generator, a flexible packer supported around said housing structure and adapted to be inflated outward against the walls of the borehole, and a passage leading from said fuel conduit to the inside of said packer for
Claim 30
Independent Claim
259 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said generator being supported by housing structure, means coupled to said housing structure and extending to the surface for supporting said housing structure and hence said gas generator in the borehole, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprising a fuel conduit coupled to said gas generator, a flexible packer supported around said housing structure and adapted to be inflated outward against the walls of the borehole, and a passage leading from said fuel conduit to the inside of said packer for
Claim 31
Independent Claim
259 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said generator being supported by housing structure, means coupled to said housing structure and extending to the surface for supporting said housing structure and hence said gas generator in the borehole, said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel comprising a fuel conduit coupled to said gas generator, a flexible packer supported around said housing structure and adapted to be inflated outward against the walls of the borehole, and a passage leading from said fuel conduit to the inside of said packer for
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
37 words
The system of claim 29 comprising: means, including conduit means for supplying water to said gas generator for flow to said cooling annulus, said valve means being adapted to control the flow of water to said gas
Claim 33
Independent Claim
229 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber defining a combustion zone and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid for forming a combustible mixture of gases in said combustion zone for ignition, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, first solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying fuel for controlling the flow of fuel to said gas generator, second solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid for controlling the flow of oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, and control means located at the surface for controlling said first and second
Claim 34
Independent Claim
229 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber defining a combustion zone and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid for forming a combustible mixture of gases in said combustion zone for ignition, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, first solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying fuel for controlling the flow of fuel to said gas generator, second solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid for controlling the flow of oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, and control means located at the surface for controlling said first and second
Claim 35
Independent Claim
270 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means including conduit means for supplying a cooling fluid to said gas generator for flow into said cooling annulus, first solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying fuel for controlling the flow of fuel to said gas generator, second solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid for controlling the flow of oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, third solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of cooling fluid to said gas generator, and control means located at the surface for controlling said first, second,
Claim 36
Independent Claim
270 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means including conduit means for supplying a cooling fluid to said gas generator for flow into said cooling annulus, first solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying fuel for controlling the flow of fuel to said gas generator, second solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator coupled to said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid for controlling the flow of oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, third solenoid control valve means located in the borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of cooling fluid to said gas generator, and control means located at the surface for controlling said first, second,
Claim 37
Independent Claim
293 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said valve means comprising: a valve housing having a first inlet and outlet pair and a second inlet and outlet pair, a movable valve member located in said valve housing having two passages for providing fluid communication between said first inlet and outlet pair and between said second inlet and outlet pair when said valve member is moved to a given position, said first inlet and outlet pair being adapted to supply fuel to said gas generator, said second inlet and outlet pair being coupled in said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid, and valve control means coupled between said conduit means for supplying fuel and said valve means for applying said fuel to said valve means for moving
Claim 38
Independent Claim
293 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said valve means comprising: a valve housing having a first inlet and outlet pair and a second inlet and outlet pair, a movable valve member located in said valve housing having two passages for providing fluid communication between said first inlet and outlet pair and between said second inlet and outlet pair when said valve member is moved to a given position, said first inlet and outlet pair being adapted to supply fuel to said gas generator, said second inlet and outlet pair being coupled in said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid, and valve control means coupled between said conduit means for supplying fuel and said valve means for applying said fuel to said valve means for moving
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
37 words
The system of claim 33 wherein: said valve control means comprises a solenoid actuated valve for controlling the passage of fuel to said valve means, and control means located at the surface for controlling said solenoid actuated
Claim 40
Independent Claim
326 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said valve means comprising: a valve housing having a first inlet and outlet pair, a second inlet and outlet pair, and a third inlet and outlet pair, a movable valve member located in said valve housing having three passages for providing fluid communication between said first inlet and outlet pair, between said second inlet and outlet pair, and between said third inlet and outlet pair, when said valve member is moved to a given position, said first inlet and outlet pair being coupled in said conduit means for supplying fuel, said second inlet and outlet pair being coupled in said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid, said third inlet and outlet pair being adapted to supply cooling fluid to said cooling annulus of said gas generator, and valve control means coupled between said conduit means for supplying fuel and said valve means for applying said fuel to said valve means for moving
Claim 41
Independent Claim
326 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, said valve means comprising: a valve housing having a first inlet and outlet pair, a second inlet and outlet pair, and a third inlet and outlet pair, a movable valve member located in said valve housing having three passages for providing fluid communication between said first inlet and outlet pair, between said second inlet and outlet pair, and between said third inlet and outlet pair, when said valve member is moved to a given position, said first inlet and outlet pair being coupled in said conduit means for supplying fuel, said second inlet and outlet pair being coupled in said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid, said third inlet and outlet pair being adapted to supply cooling fluid to said cooling annulus of said gas generator, and valve control means coupled between said conduit means for supplying fuel and said valve means for applying said fuel to said valve means for moving
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
37 words
The system of claim 35 wherein: said valve control means comprises a solenoid actuated valve for controlling the passage of fuel to said valve means, and control means located at the surface for controlling said solenoid actuated
Claim 43
Independent Claim
322 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, a DC power supply located in said borehole near said gas generator, said valve means comprising: a valve housing having a first inlet and outlet pair and a second inlet and outlet pair, a movable valve member located in said valve housing having two passages for providing fluid communication between said first inlet and outlet pair and between said second inlet and outlet pair when said valve member is moved to a given position, said first inlet and outlet pair being adapted to supply fuel to said gas generator, said second inlet and outlet pair being connected in said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid, valve control means adapted to supply fuel to said valve means for moving said movable valve member to said given position, said movable valve member comprising switch means adapted to electrically connect said DC power supply to said igniter for actuating said igniter
Claim 44
Independent Claim
322 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means, including conduit means extending from the surface, for supplying an oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, valve means located in said borehole near said gas generator for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator, a DC power supply located in said borehole near said gas generator, said valve means comprising: a valve housing having a first inlet and outlet pair and a second inlet and outlet pair, a movable valve member located in said valve housing having two passages for providing fluid communication between said first inlet and outlet pair and between said second inlet and outlet pair when said valve member is moved to a given position, said first inlet and outlet pair being adapted to supply fuel to said gas generator, said second inlet and outlet pair being connected in said conduit means for supplying oxidizing fluid, valve control means adapted to supply fuel to said valve means for moving said movable valve member to said given position, said movable valve member comprising switch means adapted to electrically connect said DC power supply to said igniter for actuating said igniter
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
124 words
The system of claim 37 wherein: said means, including said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator comprises a fuel supply, a fuel control, and a fuel flow meter located at the surface, said means, including said conduit means extending from the surface for supplying oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator comprises an oxidizing fluid supply, an oxidizing fluid flow control, and an oxidizing fluid flow meter located at the surface, and a fuel-oxidizing fluid control system coupled between said fuel flow control and said fuel flow meter and between said oxidizing fluid flow control and oxidizing fluid flow meter for maintaining a given
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
182 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through said borehole from the surface to said gas generator, by way of separate fuel and oxidizing fluid passage means, a fuel and an oxidizing fluid to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing a portion of the fuel from said fuel passage means through said cooling annulus and into said chamber by way of said passages for cooling
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
182 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through said borehole from the surface to said gas generator, by way of separate fuel and oxidizing fluid passage means, a fuel and an oxidizing fluid to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing a portion of the fuel from said fuel passage means through said cooling annulus and into said chamber by way of said passages for cooling
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
11 words
The method of claim 39 wherein said fuel consists essentially of
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 39 wherein: said fuel consists essentially of hydrogen and said oxidizing fluid is oxygen, said combustible mixture formed is a hydrogen-rich mixture defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for complete combustion with the
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
13 words
The method of claim 39 wherein said fuel is methane and said oxidizing
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
160 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through said borehole from the surface to said gas generator, by way of separate passages, ammonia and oxygen to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing a portion of the ammonia through said cooling annulus for cooling
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
160 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through said borehole from the surface to said gas generator, by way of separate passages, ammonia and oxygen to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing a portion of the ammonia through said cooling annulus for cooling
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
165 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said cooling fluid annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through the borehole, from the surface to said gas generator by way of separate passage means, hydrogen and oxygen, to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing a cooling fluid through said cooling annulus and into said chamber
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
165 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said cooling fluid annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through the borehole, from the surface to said gas generator by way of separate passage means, hydrogen and oxygen, to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing a cooling fluid through said cooling annulus and into said chamber
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 44 comprising the step of flowing through said borehole from the surface to said cooling annulus of said gas generator, a
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 45 wherein said combustible mixture formed is a hydrogen-rich mixture defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
167 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other fluids from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said bearing formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through said borehole from the surface to said gas generator, by way of separate passages, a fuel of ammonia and an oxidizer of oxygen, to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing through said borehole, from the surface to said cooling annulus of
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
167 words
In a recovery process for recovering hydrocarbons or other fluids from underground formations penetrated by a borehole and wherein a gas generator is located in the borehole at or near the level of said bearing formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for the passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber and having passages leading to said chamber, the method of operating said gas generator comprising the steps of: flowing through said borehole from the surface to said gas generator, by way of separate passages, a fuel of ammonia and an oxidizer of oxygen, to form a combustible mixture in said combustion zone, igniting and burning the combustible mixture in said combustion zone, and flowing through said borehole, from the surface to said cooling annulus of
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
12 words
The method of claim 47 wherein said liquid cooling fluid is ammonium
Claim 60
Independent Claim
240 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole, comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, a source of fuel located at the surface, fuel conduit means coupled to said source of fuel and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, a source of oxidizing fluid located at the surface, oxidizing fluid conduit means coupled to said source of oxidizing fluid and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means for diverting a portion of said fuel from said fuel conduit means into said annulus for cooling said gas generator and gases of combustion, and means for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator to form a combustible mixture of gases in said combustion zone
Claim 61
Independent Claim
240 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole, comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, a source of fuel located at the surface, fuel conduit means coupled to said source of fuel and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying fuel from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, a source of oxidizing fluid located at the surface, oxidizing fluid conduit means coupled to said source of oxidizing fluid and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying oxidizing fluid from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means for diverting a portion of said fuel from said fuel conduit means into said annulus for cooling said gas generator and gases of combustion, and means for controlling the flow of fuel and oxidizing fluid to said gas generator to form a combustible mixture of gases in said combustion zone
Claim 62
Independent Claim
278 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole, comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, a source of hydrogen located at the surface, hydrogen conduit means coupled to said source of hydrogen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying hydrogen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, a source of oxygen located at the surface oxygen conduit means coupled to said source of oxygen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying oxygen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means for diverting a portion of said hydrogen from said hydrogen conduit means into said annulus for cooling said gas generator and gases of combustion and for providing hot hydrogen, and means for controlling the flow of hydrogen and oxygen to said gas generator to form a hydrogen-rich combustible mixture in said combustion zone and to maintain the temperature of the gases and fluids flowing through said outlet at a desired temperature level, said hydrogen-rich combustible mixture being defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for complete combustion with the oxygen present.
Claim 63
Independent Claim
278 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole, comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and an oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, a source of hydrogen located at the surface, hydrogen conduit means coupled to said source of hydrogen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying hydrogen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, a source of oxygen located at the surface oxygen conduit means coupled to said source of oxygen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying oxygen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, means for diverting a portion of said hydrogen from said hydrogen conduit means into said annulus for cooling said gas generator and gases of combustion and for providing hot hydrogen, and means for controlling the flow of hydrogen and oxygen to said gas generator to form a hydrogen-rich combustible mixture in said combustion zone and to maintain the temperature of the gases and fluids flowing through said outlet at a desired temperature level, said hydrogen-rich combustible mixture being defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for complete combustion with the oxygen present.
Claim 64
Independent Claim
247 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole, comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, a source of hydrogen located at the surface, hydrogen conduit means coupled to said source of hydrogen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying hydrogen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, a source of oxygen located at the surface, oxygen conduit means coupled to said source of oxygen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying oxygen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, and means for controlling the flow of hydrogen and oxygen to said gas generator to form a hydrogen-rich combustible mixture in said combustion zone and to maintain the temperature of the gases and fluids flowing through said outlet at a desired temperature level, said hydrogen-rich combustible mixture being defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for complete combustion with the oxygen present.
Claim 65
Independent Claim
247 words
A system for use for recovering hydrocarbons or other materials from underground formations penetrated by a borehole, comprising: a gas generator located in the borehole at or near the level of said formations, said gas generator comprising: a housing forming a chamber and having an upper inlet end for receiving fuel and oxidizing fluid, said chamber defining a combustion zone, an igniter for igniting combustible gases in said combustion zone, a restricted lower outlet for passage of heated gases, and a cooling fluid annulus surrounding said chamber, said annulus being in fluid communication with said chamber, a source of hydrogen located at the surface, hydrogen conduit means coupled to said source of hydrogen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying hydrogen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, a source of oxygen located at the surface, oxygen conduit means coupled to said source of oxygen and extending from the surface to said gas generator for supplying oxygen from the surface to said inlet end of said gas generator located in said borehole, and means for controlling the flow of hydrogen and oxygen to said gas generator to form a hydrogen-rich combustible mixture in said combustion zone and to maintain the temperature of the gases and fluids flowing through said outlet at a desired temperature level, said hydrogen-rich combustible mixture being defined as having more hydrogen than is needed for complete combustion with the oxygen present.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
US2506853A
Cited
US2786660A
Cited
US2853136A
Cited
US2890755A
Cited
US2887160A
Cited
US2877847A
Cited
US2941595A
Cited
US3012607A
Cited
US3136359A
Cited
US3173483A
Cited
US3381766A
Cited
US3456721A
Cited
US3759329A
Cited
US3780803A
Cited
US3901313A
Cited
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1979-09-28 | 1980-03-29 | 1980-09-28 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1983-09-28 | 1984-03-29 | 1984-09-28 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1987-09-28 | 1988-03-29 | 1988-09-28 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |