This inventor holds 14 USPTO granted patents and 11 published patent applications, plus 2 CIPO patents and 1 EPO patent. Top assignees: Schlumberger Technology Corporation, Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC, Westerngeco L.l.p.. Active years: 2005-2026.
Location History:
- Stafford, TX (US) (2005)
- Missouri City, TX (US) (2007 - 2023)
- Houston, TX (US) (2023)
Company Filing History:
8 out of 10,734 
4 out of 934 
1 out of 692 
Years Active: 2005-2026
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Andrew Hawthorn
Introduction
Andrew Hawthorn is a notable inventor based in Missouri City, TX (US), recognized for his significant contributions to the field of acoustic communications in drilling operations. With a total of 14 patents to his name, he has developed groundbreaking technologies that enhance the efficiency and safety of drilling processes.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, Hawthorn has introduced systems and methods for in-slips acoustic reception. This innovation enables acoustic communications through a drill pipe, even when the pipe is held in floor slips. In one embodiment, multiple self-contained acoustic receivers are strategically positioned at different locations on a drilling rig to receive acoustic telemetry signals from a downhole tool through various acoustic channels. The design of these receivers includes components encased in a translucent encapsulant, which prevents exposed components that could create a spark in the hazardous drilling rig environment. The acoustic telemetry signals are communicated through the drill pipe and rig structure to the different acoustic receivers, which relay data to a central processor. This processor can then generate acoustic telemetry data with a greater signal-to-noise ratio than the signals received by the individual receivers.
Another significant patent by Hawthorn involves permanent well monitoring with acoustically transparent plugs. This system allows for the communication of information acoustically through a plug in a temporarily or permanently abandoned well. The embodiments utilize an acoustically transmissive well plug, where an acoustic transmitter coupled to a measurement tool below the plug maximizes the coupling of generated acoustic signals to the plug. These signals are transmitted through the plug to an acoustic receiver at the upper end, which converts the signals and forwards them to surface equipment or intermediate transceivers.
Career Highlights
Hawthorn has had a distinguished career, working with prominent companies in the oil and gas industry, including Schlumberger Technology Corporation and Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC. His work has significantly impacted the development of technologies that improve drilling operations and safety.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Hawthorn has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including James P. Brady and Jian Yang. These partnerships have fostered innovation and contributed to the advancement of acoustic communication technologies in the drilling sector.
Conclusion
Andrew Hawthorn's innovative patents and contributions to the field of acoustic communications have made a lasting impact on the drilling industry. His work continues to enhance the efficiency and safety of drilling operations,