text:
An exercise float platform is formed of specifically dimensioned buoyant sections connected by flexing hinges to permit a user to perform an exercise routine in an aquatic environment. The buoyancy of the individual sections can be selectively adjusted depending on the weight distribution of the individual, or the exercise routine intensity. The exercise float permits the user to perform exercise routines in the water focused on the back, hips and stomach muscle groups along with allowing flexible upper and lower body workouts while either sitting below the water level or reclined above the water level. Separate elastic straps are applied to increase the level of resistance during exercise.
1. An apparatus to provide support and buoyancy to a user during an exercise routine performed in an aquatic environment comprising:
a first flotation section configured to correspond to the shape of the user's back as extending from the upper shoulders to the waist of said user, having a width that is sufficiently narrow thereby permitting the free movement of the arms and shoulders, and having sufficient buoyancy to support the user's back at a submerged surface position in the aquatic environment to perform the exercise routine,
a second flotation section having a greater width than said first flotation section and configured to correspond to the shape of the user's seat as made up of the buttocks to the upper thigh region of said user and having sufficient buoyancy to support said seat at said submerged surface position in said aquatic environment,
a first hinge means located between and operatively connecting said first flotation section with said second flotation section in a manner permitting pivoting of said sections through an angle of at least 90� between said first and second flotation sections,
a third flotation section configured to correspond to the user's legs and feet, having sufficient buoyancy to support said user's lower legs and feet at said submerged surface position in said aquatic environment,
a second hinge means located between and operatively connecting said third flotation section to said second flotation section in a position so that said first, second and third flotation sections form a substantially elongated float conforming to the total length of the user,
a plurality of mating attachment points located on the perimeter of at least one of said first, second and third flotation sections, and
a pair of elastic strap means, each one of said elastic strap means having attachment means located at one end of said elastic strap means for attaching to one of said plurality of mating attachment points and handgrip means located on said elastic strap means distal from said attachment means, wherein said elastic strap means for providing increased resistance to water borne movement by said person during said exercise routine.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said flotation sections are formed of a water resistant material and have at least one inner pocket in each flotation section for holding buoyant producing means.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein said buoyant producing means comprises an air filled closed cell foam cushion.
4. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein said inner pocket is airtight and capable of inflation with a buoyant producing gas.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the buoyancy of said flotation sections can be adjusted in accordance with a user selected degree of intensity for said exercise routine.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said second hinge means is removably attached to said second flotation section.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is collapsible to a form that is easily transported by said user, and further comprises handle means positioned to enhance said transport.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a pair of stirrup means, each one of said stirrup means configured to grip a user's foot is attached to said elastic strap means at the other end of said elastic strap means opposite to said attachment means.
9. A method of aquatic exercise performed by a user concentrated on developing and conditioning the muscle groups associated with a user's stomach, back and hip area comprising the steps of:
placing into an aquatic environment a flotation platform of the type characterized by a first float section and a second float section joined together by a first hinge means, and said second float section and an attachable attachment means for attaching a third float section including a second hinge means, and a pair of elastic strap means, each of said elastic strap means having attachment means for connecting to one of a plurality mating attachment points located on the sides of said flotation platform, a stirrup means located on said elastic strap means opposite of said attachment means, wherein said first float section is shaped to correspond to the shape of said user's back without interfering with the free movement of said user's arms and shoulders, said second float section is shaped to correspond to a user's seat, and said hinge permits pivoting of at least 90�; and
mounting onto said flotation platform whereby said user is supported at a submerged surface position in the aquatic environment facing upward and said user's back is located proximate to said first hinge means permitting movement from both an inclined and upright user position in said aquatic environment during the performance of an aquatic exercise by using said stirrup means for performing an knee to chest exercise.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein said first, second and third float sections of said flotation platform can be individually adjusted in terms of buoyancy thereby providing the ability to change type and degree of difficulty of exercise.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein said flotation platform has mounting straps on said second float section to ease the positioning of said user prior to said aquatic exercise.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein said flotation platform comprises buoyant producing means, said buoyant producing means is an air filled closed cell foam cushion.
13. The method of claim 9; wherein said flotation platform further including a handgrip means located on said elastic strap means distal from said attachment means, and said method further including the step of positioning said attachment means to said second float section and said user's feet on said stirrup means and the user's hand on said handgrip means for performing a biceps curl exercise and a rowing exercise.
This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 07/359,215 filed on May 31, 1989, now abandoned.
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for enhanced aquatic exercising. More particularly, the present invention relates to a flotation device capable of specifically delineated movements in an aquatic environment suitable for a series of exercise routines directed to the back and stomach muscle groups.
During the past decade, there has been an explosion of interest in physical activity as both a pastime and a means of acquiring and maintaining good health. Much of the current interest in exercise and other similar activities is based on the recent findings that correlate longevity with active lifestyles. Pursuant to this increased awareness, a corresponding increase in the variety of exercise activities has spawned a plethora of new businesses focused on servicing the needs of this new market.
Many exercise routines are directly focused on the stomach, hips and back as a means for reducing weight and developing a more attractive figure. Almost all structured aerobic exercise routines have a significant portion of their workout concentrated on the stomach, hips and back. These anatomical areas are the first to collect fat in appreciable quantities and therefore engender the most concern from those in pursuit of a slimmer figure.
Conventional forms of exercising the stomach, hip and back muscles include such classic routines as the "sit-up", "leg raises", and "back arches". These routines are often performed over many cycles on a hard surface such a floor, or at best, a pad placed on a floor. These routines cause major stress on back muscles and the vertebrae of the spine, and irritation of the tail bone. Persons suffering from various levels of back problems or similar ailments simply cannot perform more than a handful of sit-ups without increasing levels of pain and discomfort. For the most part, persons with limited capability to do sit-ups are relegated to much less effective forms of exercise.
It has been discovered over the years that water borne exercise involves significantly less stress during a workout while providing the same level or even a greater level of exercise. Aquatic exercising has become a dominate form of physical therapy for persons suffering from bad backs, knee disorders and for the elderly. In fact, aquatic exercises are performed in a variety of environments including pools, spas and the beach. It has been found that the beach with its attendant surf offers distinct forms of exercising, including wave riding and similar endeavors more characteristic of fun than a traditional workout.
While the field of aquatic exercise has boomed, it has remained concentrated on only a few forms of exercise and thus limited to certain muscle groups. In particular, aquatic exercise is presently dominated by exercise routines such as swimming, jogging, jumping, and certain arm and leg movements. For the most part, there have been few, if any specific routines directed to the stomach, hips, and back. This void is mostly reflective of the fact that these muscle groups cannot be readily exercised in an aquatic environment.
As reflected in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 359,215, a specifically delineated exercise float device has been developed related to aquatic exercise routines focusing on development and conditioning of stomach and back muscles. The teachings of the above-noted patent application are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully restated. The exercise float described in said patent application is a simplified structure that permits flexure of isolated muscle groups, restrained by the flow resistance associated with the aquatic environment and gravity subdued to some extent by the natural buoyancy of the water. This permits a workout consistent with the needs of a large percentage of users, including the elderly and those undergoing physical therapy. It has been recently discovered that some users desire a more vigorous workout. In view of the special needs of these users, the original exercise float has been adapted and improved in a manner more fully disclosed and taught below.
An object of the present invention is to provide a device to enhance aquatic exercise routines performed in a swimming pool or similar environment.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an aquatic exercising device comprised of a multi-part flotation platform having specifically located hinges that act to permit the controlled flexing of the platform pursuant to the specific requirements of the exercise routine being performed.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a multi-sectioned flotation platform with sufficient buoyancy to support and hold a user thereof essentially at about the surface of the water while permitting the user to perform exercise routines focused on the stomach, hip and back.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a collapsible multi-sectioned flotation device comprising at least two sections connected by a hinge wherein said hinge permits the user thereof to engage in sit-ups, leg lifts, and back arches while floating in a pool or similar aquatic environment.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a multi-sectioned flotation device where the buoyancy of each float can be changed according to the weight distribution of the user and the type and intensity of the exercise routine desired.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a multi-section flotation device which further includes specifically located attachment points for connection to elongated elastic straps having specific resistive characteristics.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide elongated elastic straps with handgrips and/or foot stirrups for direct attachment to an exercise flotation device wherein the straps provide additional resistance in conjunction with the exercise float in the performance of specific exercise routines.
The above and other objects of the present invention are realized in a specific illustrative multi-sectioned flotation device wherein at least two sections are connected by a hinge thus permitting the relational pivoting motion of the sections pursuant to specific user flexing movement during an exercise routine performed in an aquatic environment.
Attachment points for connecting the elastic strap to the exercise float are found on each float section. The elastic strap apparatus comprises an attachment means located at each end of the elongated elastic strap, a handgrip and a foot stirrup. The use of the handgrip or foot stirrup will depend on both the attachment points of the strap on the exercise float and on the specific exercise routine pursued.
The foregoing features of the present invention may be more fully appreciated from the following detailed discussion of a specific illustrative embodiment thereof, presented hereinbelow in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 provides a top view of the multi-sectioned flotation platform of the present invention;
FIG. 2 provides a side view of the multi-sectioned flotation platform of the present invention;
FIG. 3 provides a top view of the elastic strap apparatus;
FIGS. 4a and b illustrates an inclined exercise on the flotation platform;
FIGS. 5a and b illustrates a leg exercise performed on the flotation platform from a seated position;
FIGS. 6a and b illustrates an arm exercise performed on the flotation platform from a seated position;
FIGS. 7a and b illustrates the use of the flotation platform and elastic straps in performing "knee to chest" exercises;
FIGS. 8a and b illustrates the use of the flotation platform and elastic straps in performing "bicep curls"; and
FIGS. 9a and b illustrates the use of the flotation platform and elastic straps in performing a "rowing" exercise.
Discussing the present invention first in overview, it is a fundamental objective to provide a exercise platform that combines the properties of significant buoyancy with the resistance associated with precisely located elastic straps t address specific aquatic exercises focused on or directed to the stomach, hips, arms, legs and back.
Bearing this in mind and referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the structure of the flotation platform is presented in top and associated side view. In this particular embodiment, the flotation platform is formed of three discrete float sections. Applying like numerals for the same element shown in the various views, an upper float section 1 is connected to a mid-float section 2, by vinyl hinge 3. This vinyl hinge 3 separates the upper and lower float section by a distance of approximately 5-6 inches. The use of vinyl for hinge 3 is merely illustrative of suitable hinge material although the use of water resistant material such as vinyl is preferred in view of the aquatic environment for use. The 5-6 inches of spacing between the upper and lower float sections permits the easy flexing of the platform at the hinge location with limited pinching of the user during this flexing. Hinge 3 permits pivoting of the separate sections up to 90�.
The upper float section 1 is dimensioned to correspond to the shape of the back of the individual user and to provide support to the user during the envisioned exercise routines. In this regard, the general shape of the upper float section is long and narrow so that in use it will extend from the user's head or neck to the lower back area. The width of the upper float section 1 at the shoulders should be sufficiently narrow so as to not interfere with the free movement of the arms during use. The lower float section 2, is somewhat wider than the upper float section 1 due to the need to support the buttocks and thighs of the user, otherwise referred to herein as the user's seat. The vinyl hinge 3 supports the lower back. Hinge 3 allows the upper and lower float sections to move in similar or different directions depending upon the type of exercise routine performed.
The upper, lower, and foot float sections are all formed of compartmentalized hollow vinyl containers which are capable of receiving buoyant producing materials such as DURAFOAM� closed cell flotation cushions. These compartments or pockets are arranged to permit the controlled distribution of the buoyant material to maximize comfort, balance and degree of buoyancy. Access to the compartments is via VELCRO enclosure 7, as shown on each of the separate float sections. As can be seen, the selection of the amount, shape and type of buoyant cushions to pack the various float sections provides the user tremendous flexibility in customizing the exerciser float to the user's particular needs in terms of support and stiffness. The outer shell of the float sections is formed of TEXTRA�, PVC or other suitably water resistant material. The float shell is normally stitched; alternatively, the seams can be fixed by per se well known heat sealing techniques. This process offers significant economics of scale in production. In addition, the aforesaid compartments can be made of an air tight material and filled with air to create the requisite buoyancy. For certain uses, the float sections can be made of solid buoyant material.
Continuing with FIG. 1, a second hinge 4 of approximately 2 inches and foot float 5 is attached to the lower float 2. The foot float 5 is attached to the underside of the lower float 2, via velcro 6, for mounting the device in the water. This permits exercise of the legs and knees while either in a reclined position above the water level or in a seated or flexed position substantially below the water level. As an alternative form of buoyancy, the upper, lower and foot float can be formed directly of a solid buoyant material.
Mounting straps 8 are located on the lower float for ease of handling and mounting during use in the water along with providing male buckles 9 which connect to female buckles 10 on the upper float so that the entire device can be folded neatly into a package for ease of handling and portability. The mounting straps 8 permit the user to pull the flotation platform into position beneath him while standing in the water.
A shoulder strap 11 is provided for portability. A headrest 12, buoyed by air, closed cell foam, or other material is provided at the top of the upper float 1 for comfort, and to keep the head and ears out of the water during exercise. The material of construction are all soft flexible water resistant materials. If stiffeners are needed for particular routines, these can be appropriately placed into the compartments.
The elastic strap apparatus, for use in conjunction with the exercise float, is separately depicted in FIG. 3. The elastic strap apparatus is formed of an elastic strap 14 having separate attachment clasps 15 at opposing ends. A cushioned handgrip 16 is located between the two terminal clasps on strap 14, and a stirrup 17 is provided at one end of strap 14.
The elastic strap apparatus is formed of water compatible materials, preferably synthetic rubber based elastomers. Elastic strap 14 is approximately 0.75 inches in diameter and 30 inches in length. The location of handgrip 16 is adjustable along the length of strap 14; once the desired location of handgrip 14 is achieved, it is fixed by squeezing the handgrip directly; alternate fixing means can also be substituted. The handgrip 16 is preferably formed of a cushioned or foamed material for comfort and ease of use.
Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, use of the flotation platform in a series of specific exercises is illustrated. In FIG. 4, for example, the flotation platform is implemented in an inclined aquatic exercise, wherein lateral side to side movements are made by the user. The flotation platform, comprising upper (1) and lower (2) floats support the user near the surface of the water, while flexure of the hinge (3) corresponds to the user's waist.
In FIG. 5, a knee extension exercise is illustrated, indicative of the flotation platform's application from a seated position. In this form, the foot float (5) is folded underneath the lower float (2). Similarly, FIG. 6 illustrates arm exercises performed in the seated position on the flotation platform. Control of the relative buoyancy of the lower and upper floats, permits regulation of the degree of difficulty for certain exercises, and the position of the user vis-a-vis the water level. As can be seen, the above flotation platform can be applied in many aquatic environments including pools, such as a local YMCA, spas and the beach. The flotation platform is especially adapted to wave riding for all generations since it permits the user to float in the surf in a seated, supine or prone position.
The elastic strap apparatus is used in conjunction with the multifloat exercise platform to increase the resistance in certain aquatic exercise routines. In this regard, the multifloat platform is provided with peripheral connection slots 13 corresponding and suitably mated to the attachment clasps 15 located at each end of the elastic strap apparatus. In this way, the elastic strap can be connected to individual float sections, thus providing a controlled increase in movement resistance. Symmetry is maintained by applying a second strap at a corresponding but opposing location for attachment. As can be recognized, both ends of the elastic straps can be attached to various float locations creating differing forms of aquatic exercise.
The stirrup is provided for anchoring to the user's foot, again in conjunction to strap attachment to the float platform. Anchoring the straps to the foot creates additional and differing levels of resistance, thus providing greater flexibility in training. Two foot straps 18 made with a similar vinyl, PVC or other material are located on the foot float 5 to provide more stability during exercise with the elastic strap 14.
Application of the elastic straps in conjunction with flotation platform is graphically illustrated in FIGS. 7-9. In FIG. 7, the elastic strap attachment 15 is connected to upper float 1 via matching clip 13, on each side. The user places his feet in stirrup 17 while positioning himself conventionally on the platform. This knee to chest routine involves extension from the position in FIG. 7a to the fully inclined position depicted in FIG. 7b. The flotation platform supports the user near the water surface during this routine.
Now referring to FIGS. 8(a and b), the elastic strap position has been moved to the lower float for attachment, while the user's feet remain in the stirrups. For the "bicep curl", the user grasps handgrips 16 and iteratively draws his hands to his upper chest area (see FIG. 8b).
To perform a rowing exercise, as shown in FIG. 9, the elastic straps are similarly attached to the lower float (2); the iterative movement is focused on the extension and flexing of the back and waist between the two positions shown in FIGS. 9a and 9b. The elastic straps provide stability and increased resistance, while permitting the completion of the exercise routine in a comfortable environment.
The above-described arrangement is merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be readily apparent to those skilled in this art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
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Nationals Stock Watch: Heroes aplenty
Aug 20, 2014, 2:07 PM EDT
We take a look at the Nationals' past week, at a glance:
Adam LaRoche, 1B: 3 HR/ 7 RBI/.419 OBP
When the Nationals are rolling like this, you could probably make a case for any number of guys being in this spot. During their current eight-game win streak, there's seemingly been a different hero every night. That being said, LaRoche is responsible for the game-tying or game-winning runs in three of the last seven Nats victories. Not too shabby. He's continuing to build on what's been an huge August for him, as he already has six home runs this month — the most he's had in any month this season.
Ian Desmond, SS: .360 AVG/ .448 OBP/ 5 RBI
Wilson Ramos, C: .381/.619 SLG/ 4 RBI
Stephen Strasburg, SP: 2-0/ 15.0 IP/ 0.60 ERA
Rafael Soriano, RP: 3 GP/ 1 BS/13.50 ERA
Not to quash any of the enthusiasm after an undefeated week, but now it might be time to start worrying about the closer. Whether it's because of inconsistent use, too much use, or whatever the case may be, the bottom line is that Soriano's been pretty shaky lately. He only blew one save in the last week (which was later negated thanks to a ninth inning rally), but he's routinely walked the tightrope even when he closes out victories. He's allowed baserunners in four out of his last five outings, and has allowed runs to score in three out of his last four. Matt Williams sent out Tyler Clippard in the ninth to close out the game Monday night, but Clippard, ironically, blew the save when he allowed a solo homer. So if you're the manager, now what? The bullpen is clearly fatigued, but there has to be a way to sort out the back end come playoff time.
- karlkolchak - Aug 20, 2014 at 2:15 PM
It would seem that the way to "sort out" the back end of the bullpen is to start giving more SVOs to Storen, who's pitched eight fewer innings than Soriano and 15 fewer than Clippard. He ought to be relatively fresh and he's held the closer's job before.
- jd - Aug 20, 2014 at 3:23 PM
Not gonna happen. They are not changing what has worked all year unless they are convinced it's broken. If, say Soriano is ineffective 4 – 5 more times and it's obvious he'd lost it they may consider a change but I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you.
- thomaswell - Aug 20, 2014 at 2:17 PM
roster expansion can not come any sooner for us
- snerdblurter - Aug 20, 2014 at 3:10 PM
yep. this problem goes away with sept. call-ups and an 8+ game lead…
- stoatva - Aug 20, 2014 at 3:27 PM
L/R match ups throughout September. Like it or not.
- thomaswell - Aug 20, 2014 at 3:34 PM
i dont know if MW will do L/R match ups as much as resting people especially if we have 8+ game lead.
- Section 222 - Aug 20, 2014 at 4:59 PM
You're referring to bringing in relievers to match up L/R in the late innings as opposed to platooning our hitters, right?
As ESPN-980 AM's Nats Insider, Mark makes daily appearances on the station's various shows. Here's the 2015 schedule (subject to change)...
MON: 12:45 p.m.
TUE: 2:30 p.m.
WED: 4:30 p.m.
THU: 2:30 p.m.
FRI: 5:30 p.m.
SAT: 10:30 a.m.
*All times Eastern. You can also listen to the station on 94.3 FM, 92.7 FM and online at ESPN980.com. Click here for past audio clips.
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- Nats cut two more, reducing healthy roster to 27
- Is this a preview of Nats' Opening Day lineup?
- Rendon will begin season on DL with sprained MCL
- Frandsen released, Gwynn Jr. sent to minors
- Johnson, den Dekker adjust quickly to Nats
- Blevins' awkward 24 hours ends with K of Harper
- Werth crosses big hurdle in shoulder rehab
- Nats face Mets in final Viera game of the spring
- PHOTO: New Mets pitcher faces Nats one day after they traded him
- Rendon seeking 3rd opinion on injured knee

subset: commoncrawl


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A method and apparatus for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore extending from the wellbore into a subterranean formations is provided. A housing is positioned in the wellbore, and an arm is extended therefrom. One or more plugs are positionable in the perforation via the arm. The plug is adapted to block debris from formation fluid flowing into the housing via the perforation whereby the contamination in the formation fluid is reduced. The plug may be a filter positionable in the perforation, or a bit activated to dislodge debris.
1. A downhole tool for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore, the perforation extending from the wellbore into a subterranean formation, the tool comprising:
a housing positionable in the wellbore; and
an arm in the housing and extendable therefrom, wherein the arm comprises a flexible shaft; and
at least one debris blocker in the housing, the at least one debris blocker positionable in the perforation via the arm and releasable therein such that when released and positioned in the perforation, the at least one debris blocker prevents debris from flowing through the perforation and into the housing with a formation fluid whereby the contamination in the formation fluid is reduced.
2. The downhole tool of
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23. A method for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore, the perforation extending front the wellbore into a subterranean formation, comprising:
positioning a downhole tool in the wellbore, the downhole tool having a bit extendable therefrom;
using a flexible shaft to position and release the bit in the perforation to block debris as formation fluid flaws from the perforation into the downhole tool whereby contamination is reduced in the formation fluid collected in the downhole tool.
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38. A method for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore, the perforation extending from the wellbore into a subterranean formations, comprising:
positioning a downhole tool in the wellbore, the downhole tool having an arm extendable therefrom;
using a flexible shaft to position and release at least one debris blocker in the perforation via the arm, the debris blocker-preventing debris from flowing into the downhole tool as formation fluid flows through the perforation into the downhole tool.
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1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the downhole investigation of subterranean formations. More particularly, this invention relates to sampling through perforations in a wellbore penetrating the subterranean formation.
2. Background Art
Historically, wells have been drilled to seek out downhole reservoirs containing highly desirable fluids, such as oil, gas or water. The wells may be located on land or over waterbeds and extend downhole into subterranean formations. In the search for oil and gas reserves, new wells are often drilled and tested. The wellbore may remain �open� after drilling, or be provided with a casing (otherwise known as a liner) to form a �cased� wellbore. A cased wellbore is created by inserting a tubular steel casing into an open wellbore and pumping cement downhole to secure the casing in place in the wellbore. The cement is employed on the outside of the casing to hold the casing in place and to provide a degree of structural integrity and a seal between the formation and the casing.
Various tests are typically performed on open wellbores to analyze surrounding formations for the presence of oil and gas. Once the casing is installed, the ability to perform tests is limited by the steel casing. It is estimated that there are approximately 200 cased wells which are considered for abandonment each year in North America, which adds to the thousands of wells that are already idle. These abandoned wells have been determined to no longer produce oil and gas in necessary quantities to be economically profitable. However, the majority of these wells were drilled in the late 1960's and 1970's and logged using techniques that are primitive by today's standards. Thus, recent research has uncovered evidence that many of these abandoned wells contain large amounts of recoverable natural gas and oil (perhaps as much as 100 to 200 trillion cubic feet) that have been missed by conventional production techniques. Because the majority of the field development costs such as drilling, casing and cementing have already been incurred for these wells, the exploitation of these wells to produce oil and natural gas resources could prove to be an inexpensive venture that would increase production of hydrocarbons and gas. It is, therefore, desirable to perform additional tests on such cased wellbores.
In order to perform various tests on a cased wellbore to determine whether the well is a good candidate for production, it is often necessary to perforate the casing to investigate the formation surrounding the wellbore. One such commercially used perforation technique employs a tool which can be lowered on a wireline to a cased section of a borehole, the tool including a shaped explosive charge for perforating the casing, and testing and sampling devices for measuring hydraulic parameters of the environment behind the casing and/or for taking samples of fluids from said environment. Perforations may also be used in open wellbores, for example, to facilitate the exploration of the surrounding formation and/or the flow of fluid from the formation into the wellbore.
Various techniques have been developed to create perforations in wellbores. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,195,588 issued to Dave and U.S. Pat. No. 5,692,565 issued to MacDougall et al., both assigned to the assignee of the present invention, disclose techniques for perforating a wellbore. These patents also provide techniques for plugging a wellbore after the perforation is created to stop the flow of fluid through the casing and into the wellbore.
While the advances in perforation techniques have assisted in the analysis of open and cased wellbores, it has been discovered that some perforations may become obstructed by debris. This debris may prevent the passage of fluids and/or tools through the perforation. Additionally, debris, such as drilling fluids, mud, dirt and other contaminants, may pollute the sampling or testing process and corrupt the test results.
Techniques have also been developed to prevent contamination of samples collected during the sampling process. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,495,073 to Beimgraben, U.S. Pat. No. 5,379,852 to Strange, Jr. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,377,750 to Arterbury each disclose filtering techniques for preventing downhole drilling fluids from contaminating samples. However, these techniques fail to address the problem of contamination and debris in the perforation.
To address problems, such as obstructions and contamination encountered with perforations, there remains a need to develop techniques to remove debris. It is desirable that such techniques reduce the contamination of fluids sampled from a perforation and/or prevent clogging of the perforation. It is also desirable that such techniques be usable in conjunction with perforating, testing, sampling and/or plugging operations. Such a technique should, among others, improve the quality of the sample, reduce the potential for debris to flow into the perforation, reduce the likelihood of clogging the perforation, reduce contamination in the sample, reduce contamination in the downhole tool and/or provide other advantages.
An aspect of the invention relates to a downhole tool for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore. The perforation extends from the wellbore into a subterranean formations. The tool includes a housing positionable in the wellbore, an arm in the housing and extendable therefrom and at least one plug in the housing. The plug is positionable in the perforation via the arm. The plug is adapted to block debris from formation fluid flowing into the housing via the perforation whereby the contamination in the formation fluid is reduced. The plug may be, for example, a bit or a filter plug.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore. The method includes positioning a downhole tool in the wellbore and positioning the bit in the perforation to block debris as formation fluid flows from the perforation into the housing whereby contamination is reduced in the formation fluid collected in the downhole tool. The downhole tool has a bit extendable therefrom.
Finally, in another aspect, the invention relates to a method for reducing debris in a perforation in a wellbore.
The method includes positioning a downhole tool in the wellbore, the downhole tool having at least one filter therein, and deploying the at least one filter from the downhole tool and into the perforation whereby debris is prevented from passing from the perforation into the downhole tool.
The present invention also has features and advantages that will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The various aspects of the invention may be usable in conjunction or integral with apparatuses for perforating and resealing casing in an earth borehole. Such an apparatus may have the capability to sample and test the earth formation fluids. The apparatus is moveable through the casing and can be mounted on a wireline, on tubing, or on both. Mounted inside the apparatus is a perforating means for creating a perforation through the casing and into the borehole. The plugging means is also mounted inside the device for plugging the perforation. A plurality of plugs can be stored in the apparatus to permit the plugging of several perforations during one tool run in the borehole. The apparatus will also generally include means for testing/sampling (that is, testing for hydraulic properties such as pressure or flow rate, and/or sampling fluids) of the fluids of formations behind the casing.
This apparatus may also employ perforating means comprising a flexible shaft to be used to drill a perforation through the casing and formation. The flexibility of the flexible shaft permits drilling a perforation into the formation at lengths greater than the diameter of the borehole and thereby enables the sampling at formation depths greater than the borehole diameter. Plugging means are also mounted in the device for plugging the perforation. In an embodiment of the invention, the means for plugging the perforation comprises means for inserting a plug of a solid material into the perforation.
To secure the apparatus in the borehole, a means for setting said device at a substantially fixed location may be provided. The apparatus also preferably has the capability of actuating the perforating means and the plugging means while the device is set at a substantially fixed location. Also this apparatus can have a means for moving the perforating means to a desired position in the borehole. There is also a means for moving the plugging means to a position opposite the perforation in the casing.
This apparatus may have some additional features. First, this invention uses perforating means to perforate the casing, preferably capable of creating a more uniform perforation which can be easily plugged and without the need to use of non-solid plugging means. Another advantage is the ability to extend the perforation to lengths in the formation that are greater than the diameter of the borehole. This apparatus may be implemented with a wireline device and does not require tubing, although tubing can be used if desired. Another result of this advantage is more flexibility in aligning a motor and power devices. A further advantage of a form of the present invention is that a perforation can be plugged while the tool is still set in the position at which the perforation was made, so the plugging operation can be specifically and accurately directed to the perforation, without the need for locating the perforation or for wasting the plugging medium by plugging a region that is larger than the perforation itself.
Illustrative embodiments of the invention are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementadecisions must be made to achieve the developers� specific goals, such as compliwith system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort, even if complex and time-consuming, would be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.
In the embodiment of
The inner housing 14 contains the perforating means, testing and sampling means and the plugging means. This inner housing is moved along the tool axis (vertically) by the housing translation piston 16. This movement positions, in succession, the components of each of these three systems over the same point on the casing.
A flexible shaft 18 is located inside the inner housing and conveyed through guide plates 14 b (also see
Technology does exist that can produce perforations of a depth somewhat less than the diameter of the tool. One of these methods is shown in
For the purpose of taking measurements and samples, a measurement-packer 17 c and flow line 24 are also contained in the inner housing. After a hole has been drilled, the housing translation piston 16 shifts the inner housing 14 to move the measurement-packer into position over the drilled hole. The measurement packer setting piston 24 b then pushes the measurement packer 17 c against the casing thereby forming a sealed conduit between the drilled hole and flowline 24 as shown in block 803. The formation pressure can then be measured and a fluid sample acquired, if that is desired 804. At this point, the measurement-packer is retracted 805.
Finally, a plug magazine 26 is also contained in the inner housing 14. After formation pressure has been measured and samples taken, the housing translation piston 16 shifts the inner housing 14 to move the plug magazine 26 into position over the drilled hole 806. A plug setting piston 25 then forces one plug from the magazine into the casing, thus resealing the drilled hole 807. The integrity of the plug seal may be tested by once again moving the inner housing so as to re-position the measurement-packer over the plug, then actuating this packer hole 808 and monitoring pressure through the flowline while a �drawdown� piston is actuated dropping and remaining constant at this reduced value. A plug leak will be indicated by a return of the pressure to the flowline pressure found after actuating the drawdown piston. It should be noted that this same testing method (809) can be used to verify the integrity of the tool-packer seal before drilling commences. However, for this test the measurement-packer is not set against the casing, thus allowing the drawdown to be supported by the tool-packer. The sequence of events is completed by releasing the tool anchors 810. The tool is then ready to repeat the sequence starting with block 800.
Flexible Shaft
The flexible drilling shaft is shown in detail in
The flexshaft is a well known machine element for conveying torque around a bend. It is generally constructed by helically winding, in opposite directions, successive layers of wire over a straight central mandrel wire. The flex shaft properties are tailored to the specific application by varying the number of wires in each layer, the number of layers, the wire diameter and the wire material. In this particular application the shaft must be optimized for fatigue life (number of revolutions), minimum bend radius (to allow packaging in the given tool diameter) and for conveying thrust.
Another concern is the shaft reliability when applying thrust to the drill bit through the shaft. During drilling operations various amounts of thrust are applied to the drill bit to facilitate drilling. The amount of thrust applied depends on the sharpness of the bit and the material being drilled. Sharper bits only require the application of minimum thrust through the flexible shaft. This minimum thrust has virtually no affect on the reliability of the flexible shaft. Duller bits require the application of more thrust that could damage the flexible shaft. One solution is to apply the thrust directly to the drill bit instead of through the flexible shaft. In this method, force applied to a piston located in the tool is transferred by the piston to the drill bit. The thrust necessary for drilling is supplied without any effect on the flexible shaft. This technique is further described in a U.S. Pat. No. 5,687,806. A second solution is to use a sharp bit each time a drilling operation occurs. Multiple bits can be stored in the tool and a new bit used for each drilling procedure. As previously stated, the amount of thrust required by sharper bits has minimal affect on the flexible shaft. This technique is further described in a U.S. Pat. No. 5,746,279.
When the flexshaft is used to convey both torque and thrust, as it is in this application, some means must be provided to support the shaft to prevent it from buckling from the thrust loading applied through the flexshaft to the drill bit. This support is provided by the mating pair of guide plates
The drillbit used in this invention requires several traits. It must be tough enough to drill steel without fracturing the sharp cutting edge. It must be simultaneously hard enough to drill abrasive formations without undo dulling.
It must have a tip geometry giving torque and thrust characteristics which match the capabilities of the flexible drive shaft. It must have a fluting capable of moving drill cuttings out of a hole many drill-diameters deep. The drill must be capable of drilling a hole sufficiently straight, round and not oversized so that the metal plug can seal it.
Plugging Mechanism
The plugging mechanism is shown in
Setting the plug is a two stage process. As the piston moves forward the socket component 76 is forced into the socket component as shown in
Referring now to
The bit 19 is positioned in a perforation 182 created by the downhole tool 12. The bit 19 is retracted a distance from the end 184 of the perforation 182 upon completion of creation of the perforation. As indicated by the arrows, the bit is positioned in the perforation to permit fluid to flow into the downhole tool 12. The drill bit 19 is preferably positioned within the perforation during the testing and/or sampling process to restrict the flow of debris into the downhole tool 12 via the perforation. By remaining within the perforation during the testing process, the drill bit is used to restrict the flow of debris into the perforation. For convenience, the term �testing� as used herein will encompass a variety of downhole testing and/or sampling operations, such as formation sampling, pressure testing, etc.
While the bit is shown in
As depicted by arrows, to drill bit 19 a may optionally be advanced, withdrawn and/or rotated via flexible shaft 18 to dislodge debris and/or facilitate the flow of fluid through the perforation 182 a. The advancement and/or retraction of the drill bit 19 a by flexible shaft 18 maybe repeated as necessary. The rotation of the drill bit 19 a may also be repeated as necessary. This operation allows the perforation to be recreated as necessary to assure the flow of fluid through the perforation and into the downhole tool.
The operations described in
Referring now to
A perforating tool may then be positioned in the perforation 106. The perforating tool may be the same tool that created the original perforation, or another type of perforating tool capable of clearing debris from the perforation. By way of example, a downhole tool, such as the drilling tool of
A testing operation 108 may be performed before or after positioning the perforating tool in the perforation. Typically, the perforating tool is positioned in the perforation when the perforation is created and then retracted to the desired position within the perforation to allow fluid to flow into the downhole tool. However, the perforating tool may be positioned in the perforation after the perforation has been created. Thus, sampling may have occurred before the perforating tool is positioned in the perforation.
Testing 108 may be performed by allowing fluid to flow from the perforation and into the downhole tool. At this time, samples of formation fluid may be taken and/or pressures read. Samples may be drawn into sample chambers or other portions of the tool (not shown) for downhole or uphole testing. A variety of testing known by those of skill in the art is envisioned.
Should conditions suggest problems with the perforation, the downhole tool may activate the perforation tool to dislodge the debris 110. The downhole tool may activate the perforation tool by advancing, retracting and/or rotating the perforation tool to dislodge debris. This may be continued as necessary to remove any clogs and/or facilitate the flow of fluid through the perforation.
The downhole tool may activate the perforating tool based on sensor readings, downhole measurements, at regular intervals or based on other criteria. The perforating tool and/or plug may be provided with sensors for detecting debris in the perforation. A processor may be used to collect and/or analyze data to determine when to activate the perforating tool. Alternatively, the downhole tool may be activated at will to perform such a clearing operation.
With continuing reference to
The filter plug may be positioned at various locations along the perforation, such as at the casing, at the cement, in the formation, and at the end of the perforation against the formation. Part or all of the filter plug is provided with a mesh capable of permitting fluid to flow through the filter plug and into the downhole tool while preventing solid contaminants from passing therethrough. As depicted by the arrows, formation fluid flows into the perforation, through the filter plug and into the downhole tool.
If desired, the filter plug may be removed or left in the perforation. Should the filter plug become clogged, stuck or otherwise undesirable, it is possible to drill through the filter plug thereby eliminating the need to remove the filter plug from the perforation. In other words, the perforating tool re-perforates the hole with the filter plug therein and creates a perforation through the filter plug as well. In this manner, the perforation may be restored by merely perforating through the existing filter plug. Additional filter plugs may then be inserted to replace and/or supplement the original filter plug if desired.
As shown in
Referring now to
As shown in
The filter plug may also be provided with a device for resisting movement as shown in
As shown in
While the filter plug is preferably depicted as being generally cylindrical (
Referring now to
The filter plug is preferably inserted into the perforation prior to performing a testing operation 308. The testing operation 308 is performed substantially as described with respect to step 108 of
If it becomes desirable to clear the penetration and remove the filter plug, the perforating tool may be inserted through the filter plug to dislodge or clear debris from the perforation by advancing the perforating tool through the filter and/or any debris 310. Step 306 may then be repeated to insert additional filter plugs, if desired, so that additional testing 308 may be performed. Once testing is complete, the perforation may be plugged. The downhole tool may be repositioned to perform another operation, or retrieved uphole.
The method and apparatuses described herein provide various advantages over the prior art. These methods and apparatuses have been described in connection with the preferred embodiments without limited thereto. For example, while the methods and apparatuses described herein are depicted as being used in connection with the techniques disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,692,565, it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the methods and apparatuses may be used in connection with other downhole tools capable of performing perforating and/or plugging operations. For example, the filter plug of
In addition, these changes, variations modifications would be obvious to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the foregoing teachings contained in this application. All such changes, variations and modifications are intended to be within the scope of the invention which is limited by the following claims.
Patent Citations
Referenced by
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Meriden, England
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text:
by Melissa Jaramillo
A wee baby will be joining you at next year's holiday celebrations! You're looking forward to sharing this special time with your new family member!
This year's festivities may be an entirely different story if you're battling morning sickness.
Are the chestnuts roasting on an open fire and sugar plums dancing in your head making you feel more nauseous than filled with holiday cheer? Whether you'll be traveling or staying at home, tap these seasonal staples to enjoy the holiday celebrations.
Holiday morning sickness busters
Ginger as a tea, candy, drink or grated -- sprinkled on your meals, may all help with morning sickness. Around the holidays, you can bake up a batch of spicy ginger cookies and nibble on one whenever the queasies strike. Better yet, hint to your favorite family member that you'd love a dozen.
Peppermint aromatherapy
Carry a piece of cloth in your purse scented with a combination of lavender and peppermint oil. At the first hint of nausea, hold the cloth to your nose and breathe deep for almost instant nausea relief. Have the round hard peppermint candies stashed away, too.
Snacks galore at every gathering
Everyone advises first trimester moms to keep snacks. You've probably been told to carry them in your purse and have them by your bed and in your car.
There's no shortage of snack foods during the holidays! Have a couple whole grain crackers with a cube of cheese or raid the finger foods at the buffet. Putting a bit of food in your stomach every couple hours can help eliminate morning sickness.
Baubles and beads
We're talking about a specific bauble -- anti-seasickness wrist bands. Pick up a pair and proudly wear them all season long. Wear a set in festive holiday colors!
If none of these help, add some bright and cheery holiday decor to your bathroom might make your time "at the throne" more pleasant.
Has morning sickness been your closest company during the holidays? How did you cope?
Photo courtesy of iStockphoto.


text:
The big and little dilemmas facing Mercedes
- UAW troops air demands at convention rather than cast blame
- The latest tech is great -- until you have to replace it
- That vroom-vroom … is it real or digital?
- Porsche boss Mueller, 62, says he's young enough to be VW Group CEO
- Why March 30-31 might be the greatest two days of deals at FCA dealerships
BEIJING -- Mercedes-Benz sells extended-length versions of its S-class and E-class sedans in China to give back seat passengers space to stretch out and maybe do some work while riding in one of Beijing's miserable traffic jams.
The Chinese seem to love that extra legroom. So could extended Mercedes sedans be tried in the Unites States, too?
"Maybe," said global product chief Thomas Weber. "An engineer should never say never."
In China, Mercedes has never offered anything but an extended version of the S-class and the lengthened E-class has been a big seller.
But in America, Weber said a buyer who could be tempted by an extra-length E-class would probably just step up to the S-class.
Meanwhile, Mercedes confirmed the production name of a new small sedan that arrives in the United States next year -- the CLA.
The Concept Style Coupe that debuted here Monday is "very close" to what the CLA will be.
The small, four-door sedan with the fastback, coupe-like body will go on sale in 2013, he said. But as for who gets it first -- the United States, Europe or China -- that is still undecided.
"We are now in intensive discussions about that," Weber said. "It's a question of sequencing."
You can reach Richard Johnson at email@example.com.
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Microtel Inn & Suites By Wyndham San Antonio North East
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... over 230 feet and deepest part of the caverns opened for tours goes 180 feet below the surface. We took the Discovery Tour, a three-quarter mile long and follows steep switchbacks that take you deep into the caverns. The last part of the tour, going out of the cavern, is so steep, even the younger visitors were huffing and puffing. The different sections of the ...
Mexican n German Heritage
San Antonio part 2: Today I wandered off the key tourist spots, but still along San Antonio's Riverwalk.
On the way to a Mexican hot spot, I stopped at the Spanish Governor's Palace built in the Adobe style of architecture. Then, I found a charity second hand shop. In case, I run out of proper clothes, there I find everything I need for about 3.99 USD a piece. Lunch has happend at a Mexican restaurant (see separate entry on food).
After that I walked ...
Lone Star Food
... in this case soft tacos.
By the way, yesterday I found a good drink to go with: Tequila Mockingbird.
If you care for less alcohol, beer will always do. Today, I discovered an old
Texaco gas station that was converted into a relaxed beer bar frequented by
students and artists mainly. It was a good spot to take a break.
For a sweet delight drop by a Mexican bakery. Sugar diet at its best!
Road trip across USA
... for NASA Aeronautic research. ....Texas medical centre, is the largest medical centre in the world-
just some facts that impressed us with the sheer size of the city. A cousin (who I had never met) had invited us to her home - Barbecue she said, meet the family and stay the night ...this we did after eventually finding our way to her home. We spent a most enjoyable evening, a great sleep and were up and on ...
What a nightmare start!
... being killed, including Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie and William Travis who were the most famous. Santa Anna's apparent cruelty during this battle however forced many Texians to join the Texian Army and finally on April 21, 1836, this ended the revolution between them and they won Texas for the Texian people who eventually joined the United States in 1845 as the 28th state. So, the Alamo was a very important monument of Texas and United States history.
After I visited ...


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We all have fears, but when we look closely at them, we discover that behind each fear resides a basic fear of "ourselves." We're afraid to look at our habitual styles of thinking and behaving because we might not always like what we see. Ironically it is this fear of honest self-reflection that keeps us trapped in patterns of stress and discontentment. Here is a vision for moving beyond this most basic fear to discover the innate bravery, trust, and joy that reside at the core of our being. In this recorded retreat, Pema Chodron shares teachings inspired by the book "Smile at Fear," which was written by her teacher Chogyam Trungpa. She, and her teaching assistant, Carolyn Rose Gimian, also share practices they received from Trungpa Rinpoche for courageously meeting ourselves in the present moment, including:
- The Windhorse Practice: a three-step meditation on awakening confidence
- Spiritual Warrior training for meeting life with courage and compassion
- Meditation instruction for calming the mind and developing concentration
4 CDs, 4 1/2 hours
About the Author
Bhikshuni Pema Chodron is the first American-born woman to receive full ordination as a Tibetan Buddhist nun. She is the director of Gampo Abbey in Nova Scotia, Canada, and author of the bestsellers The Wisdom of No Escape; Start Where You Are; and When Things Fall Apart.
The compiler and editor of "The Collected Works of Chogyam Trungpa," Carolyn Rose Gimian, has been editing the works of Chogyam Trungpa for more than twenty-five years. Following his death, she became the founding director of the Shambhala Archives, the archival repository for Chogyam Trungpa's work in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Diana J. Mukpo was born in England in 1953. She attended the prestigious Benenden School until she left at the age of sixteen to marry the Tibetan Buddhist teacher Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche. Mrs. Mukpo moved to the United States in 1970, where she remained with Trungpa Rinpoche until his death in 1987. During their marriage, she pursued intensive study of dressage. She is now the owner and director of Windhorse Dressage, and she travels and teaches dressage clinics throughout the United States and Canada.
Praise For…
"Pema Chödrön has a remarkable knack for making spiritual practices simultaneously insightful and funny."—AudioFile
"Chögyam Trungpa's Smile at Fear teachings offer powerful dharma encouragement to awaken our own fearless and wise heart."—Jack Kornfield


text:
2015 Project beginnings
Help create something awesome; meet other writers and plan to contribute a chapter to advance the plot of a serialized novel. Great opportunities exist for fiction writers, copy editors, illustrators, and those interested in online publishing and marketing to be part of the writing and publishing process.
Want to contribute your talents to the community novel? Fill out a Participant Interest Survey and contact Project Organizers Lissa Staley or Miranda Ericsson
Opportunities to get involved may include:
Contributing writers
Story continuity editors/team
Head Editor(s) on wiki
Contributing copy editors
Web editor
Web publishing
Print layout using Word/Createspace
Ebook publishing using smashwords
Publicist/marketing for authors (Author biography and interview team)
Social Media marketing for book
Publicist/marketing for book
Representing the project in newspaper/press release/radio/promotions
Advertising this model to other libraries and organizations
Creative Director for look of interior and interior illustrations or graphics
Contributing illustrators
Upcoming Events
Community Novel Project Book Layout Workshop
Tuesday, June 23, 2015 • 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Marvin Auditorium 101C
Learn self-publishing from start to finish with the library's Community Novel editorial team. Share tips for consistent editing and style, and use Microsoft Word templates from Createspace's self-publishing platform to edit and design a print-ready manuscript. Get hands on with tscpl.org/novel.
Previous Events 2015
Create the Community Novel
Saturday, January 31, 2015 • Noon-2 p.m.
Marvin Auditorium 101BC
Learn self-publishing from start to finish with the library's Community Novel editorial team. You'll work with other writers to write, edit and publish a teen novel set in Topeka. Bring your premise ideas for a futuristic choose-your-own-adventure. Learn more at tscpl.org/novel.
Behind the Scenes: See what happened at January's "Create the Community Novel"
Community Novel Project: Character Workshop
Thursday, February 26, 2015 • 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Marvin Auditorium 101C
Fine tune your fiction writing techniques. Compare narrator perspectives and points of view. Learn how to build character backstory using continuity notes, photos, and worksheets. Discuss how to give your character a unique voice and maintain character integrity throughout a novel. tscpl.org/novel
Behind the Scenes: See what happened at February's Character Workshop
How do dozens of people work together to write, edit and publish a novel? Read the 2013 SpeakEasy Author Interviews to find out!


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#889 of 2164
clouds greeting cards, florida greeting cards, fl greeting cards, garden greeting cards, japanese greeting cards, morikami greeting cards, spring greeting cards, sunrise greeting cards, tree greeting cards, tropical greeting cards, west greeting cards
"Pebble Beach" by Debra and Dave Vanderlaan ... This is the pretty lake at Morikami Japanese Gardens, located in Delray Beach, Florida... Such a pretty natural park where one can stroll, enjoying nature and wildlife. The lakes are crystal clear, reflecting the beautiful clouds overhead, water plants growing on the edge of the water... There is a beautiful zen-like feel at the edge of the water. Clouds float overhead reflected in the lake water. The edge of the lake has pretty river rock and some large boulders. On the opposite shoreline are tall pine trees where the bonsai house is located. Pampas grass grows in the water... Welcome to Morikami Park!
After 30 years in the floral and plant nursery business, Debra and Dave Vanderlaan sold both businesses and turned their life-long photography hobby into full-time obsession. The Vanderlaans are both award-winning photographers and well-known both domestically and internationally. Many of their images showcase the tropical landscapes of South Florida and the mountain vistas of the Smoky Mountains and many gorgeous scenes around the world. Their motto is Celebrate Life and that seemed a natural name for their gallery. Their images have been displayed in the Smithsonian Museum, North Carolina Museum of Art, Turchin Art Center in Boone NC, Palm Beach Photography Museum and many other museums and galleries around the country. Some of their...
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Book your room at Les Jardins du Luxembourg
Classic Twin RoomMax Occupancy: 2 guests (up to 1 child, 1 infant)
Classic Double RoomMax Occupancy: 2 guests (up to 1 child, 1 infant)
Hotel in Paris (Latin Quarter - Pantheon) near Luxembourg Gardens
Collect 200 points
Simply enter your Nectar card number when prompted. Your points will be credited 30 days after you return from your trip.*Offers may apply
This hotel is located in Paris (Latin Quarter - Pantheon), close to Luxembourg Gardens, Pantheon, and Sorbonne University. Also nearby are Luxembourg Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Hotel Features
In addition to a bar/lounge, Les Jardins du Luxembourg provides complimentary wireless Internet access, a 24-hour front desk, and a library.
Room Amenities
Televisions come with satellite channels. Guestrooms also feature complimentary wireless Internet access, air conditioning, and climate control.Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Les Jardins du Luxembourg features a sauna, a library, and tour/ticket assistance. Public areas are equipped with complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. For a surcharge, a shuttle from the hotel to the airport (available on request) is offered to guests. This Paris hotel also offers multilingual staff, coffee/tea in the lobby, and a fireplace in the lobby.
- 24-hour front desk
- Airport transportation - drop-off (surcharge)
- Total number of rooms - 26
- Number of floors - 6
- Bar/lounge
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Coffee/tea in lobby
- Elevator/lift
- Fireplace in lobby
- Airport transportation
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Free WiFi
- Library
- Multilingual staff
- Sauna
- Number of buildings/towers - 2
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Room Amenities
- Premium bedding
- Daily housekeeping
- Individually decorated
- Soundproofed rooms
- Climate control
- Air conditioning
- Minibar
- Hair dryer
- In-room safe
- Iron/ironing board (on request)
- Desk
- Satellite TV service
- Free WiFi
- Room service (limited hours)
Where to Eat
Breakfast is available for a surcharge and served each morning between 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 3:30 PM
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
- A tax is imposed by the city: EUR 1.65 per person, per night
- Breakfast fee: EUR 13 for adults and EUR 13 for children (approximately)
National Rating
This hotel has received its official star rating from the French Tourism Development Agency, ATOUT France.


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Jeff HardyJeffrey Nero Hardy
- Birthdate: 08/31/1977 (age 37)
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 215 Ib
Before gaining prominence in WWE, Hardy perform...
Read More »
Northeast Wrestling will present "Wrestling Under the Stars 3 - The Return of the Hardy Boyz" at Dutchess Stadium in Fishkill, NY on Saturday, August 2 at 7PM. Matt Hardy announced that he and Jeff will face for the first time, the Young Bucks at the event…
It's OFFICIAL! For the FIRST TIME EVER-Hardy Boyz vs Young Bucks for @newwrestling1! @MattJackson13 @NickJacksonYB http://t.co/76E9vP9SUt
— Matt Hardy (@MATTHARDYBRAND) May 28, 2014


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I am a novice gardener and am looking for some advice. I have a very skinny flower bed next to my sidewalk. It is one foot wide by thirteen feet long. It gets lots of sun. I'd like to plant zinnias there this May and I'd like them to be prolific--really take up the whole bed--as opposed to being planted with lots of space between them. How many zinnias would you buy and how far apart (or close) would you plant them?
Thanks for any replies.
If that was my area: Visit the local plant nursery and buy a 6-pack of plants. Read the label carefully to see how tall they are (I noticed both 12" and 30" earlier this month). Then buy a packet of seed of the opposite height ~ if the plants are 12" at maturity, buy seeds for tall ones or vice versa. If there is a choice of heights available, I'd prefer 8" and 20". Well-spaced zinnias will be bushy while crowded plants tend to be skinny and floppy. Bushy 20" plants will hang over the sidewalk but not too much, whereas a 36" plant may be obnoxious to walk past. Also, 24" and shorter plants don't need to be staked, but I always end up having to stake the taller ones in July; unstaked tall zinnias have a tendency to flop and wind storms will push them over.
I will assume you have done at least a minor prep of the soil ~ zinnias will grow in poor soil but they do much better if there is organic matter worked into it. Space the plants evenly the length of the bed and water them in (that means give each plant a couple cups of water immediately after tucking into the new home). Read the label on the seed packet to get the recommended distance apart. Make a mini-row between each plant and put the seed in, just a tiny bit closer than recommended: seed for 12" plants will probably recommend 6" apart, plant at 2 inches and remove the extras after they sprout. Zinnias sprout very quickly, usually within 7 days; and bloom within a few weeks. Buying a flat of plants just gives you something to look at while waiting.
As soon as the seeds sprout and have 4 leaves, do the no-weed-mulch thing: water the bed deeply (that means you can stick your finger into at least 2" damp soil), and then pull out any weeds already growing. Now tear some old newspapers into smallish pieces, dunk into a bucket of water and cover all of the bare soil with a layer of wet paper (best is 4 to 6 sheets of paper thick). Now top the newspaper with either finely shredded leaves or with cocoa-bean shells; use a generous inch of leaves, or enough shells that paper can't be seen. It is recommended to thoroughly wet the shells after they are spread; no more water is needed if leaves are used. With this mulch the only weeds that will appear will be from airborne seeds and easily pulled up while tiny. Well-spaced plants will become bushy and provide some shade, but it is more efficient to prevent weeds during the growing period from seed to full-grown as well as during the rest of the summer. To be honest, I detest weeding and will mulch *very* carefully (so as to not cover the rows) immediately after planting the seeds.
BTW, both 'State Fair' and the cut-and-come-again varieties make rather tall plants ~ usually 4 feet tall in my garden. They make loads of flowers but *must* be staked, and even then will often topple in a stiff wind.
link is to a company I have dealt with and like; Zahara is a very good zinnia which truly does seem to be mildew-resistant. In general, problems with mildew will be minimal if you are careful to not wet the leaves when watering (a soaker hose is wonderful) ~ and yes, additional water will be needed during dry spells.
Here is a link that might be useful: Zahara zinnia


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Dirty Impound brings us a glorious video of Akron/Family performing "Everyone is Guilty" live at Philadelphia music venue, The Blockley. "Don't stand off in your own little world. Be here in the now. Join us in our run through the wilds of the human condition. This is what Akron/Family cries in ways literal and figurative each time they gather in a music hall."
If at all possible, the video captures the essence of the unique experience that is an Akron/Family show. Perhaps you have to really be there to fully understand, but nonetheless, it's easy to see the connection between concertgoers and musicians. Where other bands simply perform-eliciting some type of barrier between themselves and their fans, Akron/Family dares the audience to include themselves into the show. It's interaction at its finest.
As if seeing Akron/Family by themselves isn't enough, Sun Ra Arkestra joins them in the performance. Take a break and watch this video; you'll be happy you did.
Check out the new video for "Cast A Net" from Akron/Family's S/T II: The Cosmic Birth and Journey of Shinju TNT. The video follows a young protagonist as she journeys through a maritime wonderland. Directed by Percept Visual's Brian Ziffer this video perfectly captures the soothing qualities of "Cast A Net" which plays like the perfect bedtime fairy tale.
In other news, Akron/Family will be touring North America and launching a new record label, Family Tree Records. Supporting AK on the US tour dates will be Denver's Bad Weather California who are also the first signees to Family Tree Records. For more info on this new project check out the Family Tree Records website. And check out the full list of Akron/Family tour dates right HERE.
In July, Akron/Family will return to Japan where the creative genesis for their latest album S/T II: The Cosmic Birth and Journey of Shinju TNT took place. It is uncertain whether they'll be able to return to the cabin in the volcanic hillside of Mount Meekan where the album first took shape, but we're sure AK will be trolling the street vendors for the very best and strangest in Japanese underground music. Either way this signals a nice completion of a creative cycle that birthed an album that still runs circles around our brains. Check out the full tour dates below:
Akron/Family in Japan:
07/06Â Shibuya, Japan- WWW
07/08 Osaka, Japan- Fandango
07/09 Nagoya, Japan- Apollo Theatre
07/10 Hamamatsu, Japan- G-Side
07/11 Matsumoto, Japan- Alecx
07/12 Shibuya, Japan- O-nest
Late last week, our friends in the UK at The Quietus (who loved Akron/Family's Shinju TNT)Â premiered the video "Light Emerges," the third single from the record. The video features what looks to be the most fun game of flashlight tag we've ever seen, but see for yourself above.
Akron/Family are currently bringing their AKAK DREAMTIME TOUR to Europe. Click through for the full list of dates. Read the rest of this entry »
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Rydges Rotorua 163
On the garden edge of Rotorua's Arawa Racecourse, the Rydges features panoramic views out over the city to Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island. There are 3 people looking at this hotel. More
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Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua 205
Just 170 yards from the famous Polynesian Spa, Sudima Hotel offers rooms with digital TV. It features a naturally heated swimming pool, massage services and nightly Maori cultural shows. More
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Malones Motel 243
Offering accommodation with free Wi-Fi and a hot tub, Malones Motel is just 4 minutes' drive from central Rotorua. Guests enjoy free on-site parking. There are 3 people looking at this motel. More
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Arista of Rotorua 332
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Minimum cut/maximum flow algorithms on graphs have emerged as an increasingly useful tool for exactor approximate energy minimization in low-level vision. The combinatorial optimization literature provides many min-cut/max-flow algorithms with different polynomial time complexity. Their practical efficiency, however, has to date been studied mainly outside the scope of computer vision. The goal of this paper is to provide an experimental comparison of the efficiency of min-cut/max flow algorithms for applications in vision. We compare the running times of several standard algorithms, as well as a new algorithm that we have recently developed. The algorithms we study include both Goldberg-Tarjan style "push -relabel" methods and algorithms based on Ford-Fulkerson style "augmenting paths." We benchmark these algorithms on a number of typical graphs in the contexts of image restoration, stereo, and segmentation. In many cases, our new algorithm works several times faster than any of the other methods, making near real-time performance possible. An implementation of our max-flow/min-cut algorithm is available upon request for research purposes.
A not-for-profit organization, IEEE is the world's largest professional association for the advancement of technology.© Copyright 2015 IEEE - All rights reserved. Use of this web site signifies your agreement to the terms and conditions.


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Severed thumb tendon 3 weeks ago, getting concerned since surgery
Hi everyone, i could really use some assurance or input from others who have gone through this.
3 weeks ago i tried saving a glass cup from tipping over, long story short it cracked and sliced my inside thumb tendon in half on my right hand (dominate hand).
I had a 3 hour surgery the same day of the accident, wore the hospital splint for 1 week then went to my PT and they made me a nice custom one. Wore it for another week not moving my thumb at all making it two weeks straight being stationary. Then last week my PT modified the splint so i could bend it with my other hand 3 different ways, 25 times each every 2 hours.
Stitches have been removed and for most part the pain is gone (Taking no meds), just a nasty mess of cuts left to heal from the DR.
WELL today i went in to the Dr for a checkup and he was very surprised/concerned i can really only wiggle my finger a little. He said normally i should be able to bend it pretty good and be able to hold it to a position he moves it to.
Instead once you bend it, i cant really hold it and it slowly bends back up.
He needs me to get a MRI to see how the tendon is healing and if the surgery was successful. He said it could just still be swollen and excessive scar tissue causing the lack of movement...but his face seemed really concerned.
This is really scaring me, im struggling major not having my hand and now with the possibility of going back into surgery scares me.
Guess im looking for some other people who have been in my shoes and I share there experience in recovery time and thumb movement. Worst part is the surgeon is a specialist and doesnt accept my blue cross blue shield insurance so id hate to pay for surgery twice.
Thanks for the input!


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Speaking of holidays....
how crazy to we get? Has anyone started shopping,decorating,planning or do we all procastinate and become bigger bears than usual as the holidays near.Myself, for the first time ever started getting a few things. This will be our first Christmas in NC and want to enjoy it. We'll see....
Well, I guess I'm a scrooge, but I don't even like the holiday season anymore except that I get to buy stuff for my 2 grand-daughters, my son and dil, my friends, and my family. This time of year holds in it some bad memories, and I hate that I have trouble just letting stuff go. I think I'm stuck in a rut, lol. How does Christmas in Cozumel sound? It kind of has a catchy little ring to it.
Mrs H
Wow, thanks for starting this post. I too am a humbug. I used to say it had to do with money and expections I put on myself (and by the population.). However, I am convinced it to had to do with expectations when I was small, and the pressure it put on my mom to "get it all done". I am very grateful to my partner in life because he doesnt care if things are "in order" around the house. WIth working and making ends meet, there doesnt seem to be a moment to enjoy the holidays I just dont have the energy to do much past 6:00 in the evening. But here they are and I will try to smile about it all. So before I get to grumpy, Happy Holidays to all my meno-sisters! Shotzy
Happy Holidays in advance to everyone on this wonderful forum!
We had Christmas Eve in our home for the past 16 years. The last few years were very stressful (gee, I wonder why?). My niece asked if I minded if she had it at her house this year (she remodeled her kitchen). I said, "mind, not at all" (while secretly doing the happy dance).


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Bucks end streak, take Pacers at Bradley Center
The Milwaukee Bucks topped Indiana 104-92 Thursday night at the Bradley Center.
Michael Redd scored 37 points, as the Bucks had 30 assists and just 10 turnovers and the Pacers scored about 12 points less than their team average -- the highest in the NBA's Eastern Conference.
Milwaukee broke the game open with a 12-0 run early in the fourth quarter.
Redd scored 10 points in the final period, and he hit 13-29 from the floor with five three-pointers.


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Get the police blotter every day in the Register.
Huron Police
May 29, 2013
My topic this week is about city projects moving at a snail's pace.
The city projects are moving so slowly that I have to wonder if the projects have come to a complete halt.
Online Contact Form419-625-5500800-466-1243314 West Market St.Sandusky, OH 44870


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Pella Regional Health CenterLocation: Pella
Founded: 1960
Ownership: Nonprofit
Iowa employees: 639 part-time and full-time
Top executive: Bob Kroese, CEO
Employees at Pella Regional Health Center are not only dedicated to serving patients, but each other as well.
Chief Executive Officer Bob Kroese said the mission of the hospital is to provide health care and healing services with Christian compassion.
Most people go into health care because of a desire to serve, he said. People here want to help others. And whether thats helping patients to heal or helping our co-workers, the level of service and commitment makes Pella Regional a great place to work.
The hospital offers a positive and safe work environment. One of the more uncommon aspects of its culture is the emphasis on shared governance.
Its important for people to have input and ownership on how they do their work, he said. Shared governance is a way for nurses and all staff to be more engaged and make a difference in how we work with patients at Pella Regional. It also ensures that patients are always receiving the best care possible by people who are truly invested in their well-being.
The hospital recently completed major facility renovations, expanded surgical services and added a da Vinci robotic surgical system. In April, it added an occupational health clinic in Newton; the Ottumwa Medical Clinic is set to open this fall.
With modern facilities, the hospital is also increasing its number of employees and services while providing new opportunities for employees to grow and develop, Kroese said.


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The European Union may be facing some difficult economic challenges, but that's no excuse for not acting now to create an economy based on resource efficiency and low-carbon development. The benefits are potentially enormous, including lower greenhouse gas emissions, more efficient use of energy and resources and rising growth and innovation.
Long-term projections suggest that without policy changes, the continuation of business-as-usual economic growth and development will have serious impacts on natural resources and the ecosystem services on which human well-being depends.
In his speech to OECD Ambassadors, the President of Iceland discussed how Iceland could offer lessons on the nature of a clean energy economy; and presented some insights from Iceland's recent challenges in dealing with the financial crisis.
Although the market for green goods and services is growing, the development of new business models is affected by a range of barriers, many of which can be addressed by well-designed policies.
Putting "Green" at the core of a country's "Growth" strategy is intelligent public policy at its best! Korea understands that there is no trade-off between green and growth. Much to the contrary: there are strong synergies that can be exploited between pro-growth and pro-green policies.
This report presents, for the first time a local 'green growth' indicator framework. This indicator framework was developed from the OECD 'green growth' strategy at the national level, but modified to highlight issues of transition that are most relevant for local areas.
Mexico is faced with difficult trade-offs as it pursues its economic, social and environmental goals. Like other emerging economies Mexico is balancing the need to protect its natural resources with the need to address high levels of income inequality and poverty.
The conference discussed the results of the project as well as policy recommendations on training and skills development for the creation of an innovative and competitive SME sector in OECD countries.
Secretary-General Angel Gurría launched the 2012 Development Co-operation Report "Lessons in linking sustainability and development" at the 48th High Level Meeting of the Development Assistance Committee in London.
Chile's OECD membership presents challenges both in the context of changing patterns of production and consumption, and in the framework of a more sustainable economy. Specifically, green growth emphasizes improving growth rates, particularly through greening existing industries, as well as through new eco-businesses.