Weatherford/lamb, Inc.

Michael LoGiudice

R Lee Colvard

James G Martens

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for remotely actuating a downhole tool. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for activating a downhole tool in a wellbore, the downhole tool having an actuated and unactuated positions. The apparatus includes an actuator for operating the downhole tool between the actuated and unactuated positions; a controller for activating the actuator; and a sensor for detecting a condition in the wellbore, wherein the detected condition is transmitted to the controller, thereby causing the actuator to operate the downhole tool. In one embodiment, conditions in the wellbore are generated at the surface, which is later detected downhole. These conditions include changes in pressure, temperature, vibration, or flow rate. In another embodiment, a fiber optic signal may be transmitted downhole to the sensor. In another embodiment still, a radio frequency tag is dropped into the wellbore for detection by the sensor.

Methods and apparatus for actuating a downhole tool

Methods and apparatus are provided for reducing surge pressure while running casing into a wellbore. The apparatus includes a running string for running casing having a diverter tool therein. The diverter tool has one or more bypass ports between its upper and lower end which are normally closed. In operation, the diverter tool is automatically cycled between the open and closed positions of the bypass ports during a casing running operation. A pressure event inside the diverter tool deactivates the cyclic opening and closing function of the bypass port.

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Spring, TX, United States of America

Michael LoGiudice