CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of
U.S. Patent Application No. 13/459,340, filed April 30, 2012, issued on August 5, 2014 as
U.S. Patent No. 8,794,684 (the "'340 Application"). The '340 Application claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/481,218, filed May 1, 2011 (the "'218 Application"). The '340 Application and the '218 Application are both
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In the oil and gas industry, wellbores are drilled into the Earth using drilling
rigs, where tubulars are threaded together to form long tubular strings that are inserted
into the wellbore to extract the desired fluid. The tubular string is generally suspended
in the borehole using a rig floor-mounted spider, such that each new tubular segment
or stand may be threaded onto the end of the previous tubular just above the spider.
A single-joint elevator is commonly used to grip and secure the segment or stand to
a hoist to lift the segment or stand into position for threading the tubular together.
[0003] For installing a string of casing, single-joint elevators generally include a pair
of hinged body halves that open to receive a tubular segment and subsequently close
to secure the tubular segment within the elevator. Single-joint elevators are specifically
adapted for securing and lifting tubular segments having a conventional connection,
such as an internally-threaded sleeve that receives and secures an externally-threaded
end from each of two tubular segments to secure the segments in a generally abutting
relationship. The internally-threaded sleeve is first threaded onto the end of a first
tubular segment to form a "box end." The externally-threaded "pin end" of a second
tubular segment is then threaded into the box end to complete the connection between
the two segments. When the elevator is in the closed position, i.e., when the hinged
body halves are secured shut, the internal diameter of the elevator is less than the
outer diameter of the box end. Consequently, the circumferential shoulder formed by
the elevator engages the tubular segment at a corresponding shoulder formed by the
end of the sleeve, thereby preventing the tubular segment from slipping through the
elevator.
[0004] At least one challenge encountered by typical single-joint elevators is that they
are designed to catch a very small range (e.g., outside diameter) of casing. With
numerous integral and upset connections currently being used in the field, there are
often times variances in the outside diameter of the box end of the casing that prohibit
the use of a solitary singlejoint elevator. Instead, two or more single-joint elevators
are required to accommodate the varying outside diameters of the pipes and/or connections
encountered.
[0005] What is needed, therefore, is a multi-range, single-joint elevator capable of being
secured to tubulars having a range of deviations in the outside diameter thereof.
SUMMARY
[0006] Embodiments of the disclosure may provide an oilfield elevator. The elevator may
include first and second body halves pivotally-coupled at a hinge and moveable between
an open position and a closed position, and one or more slips slidably received within
one or more corresponding downwardly-tapered slots defined in respective inner circumferential
surfaces of the first and second body halves, the one or more slips being configured
to translate vertically within the one or more tapered slots and, at the same time,
translate radially with respect to the first and second body halves. The elevator
may also include first and second timing bars coupled to the one or more slips, and
first and second tension handles pivotally-coupled to the first and second body halves,
respectively, and moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the
first and second tension handles each having a body that terminates at a connection
point. The elevator may further include first and second biasing members each having
a first end coupled to the connection point of the first and second tension handles,
respectively, and a second end coupled to the first and second timing bars, respectively,
wherein the first and second biasing members impart a downward force on the one or
more slips via the first and second timing bars when the first and second handles
are in the locked position, and wherein the first and second biasing members reduce
the downward force on the one or more slips via the first and second timing bars when
the first and second handles are in the unlocked position.
[0007] Embodiments of the disclosure may further provide a method for engaging a tubular
segment. The method may include positioning an elevator adjacent the tubular segment,
the elevator including first and second body halves having slips slidably received
within corresponding tapered slots defined in the first and second body halves, wherein
a first timing bar is coupled to the slips in the first body half and a second timing
bar is coupled to the slips in the second body half, and closing the first and second
body halves around the tubular segment. The method may further include moving first
and second tension handles from an unlocked position to a locked position, the first
and second tension handles being pivotally coupled to the first and second body halves,
respectively, and each tension handle having a body that terminates at a connection
point, and applying a downward force on the first and second timing bars with first
and second biasing members having a first end coupled to the connection point of the
first and second tension handles, respectively, and a second end coupled to the first
and second timing bars, respectively. The method may also include transmitting the
downward force from the first and second timing bars to the slips, the slips being
configured to translate vertically within the tapered slots and, at the same time,
translate radially with respect to the first and second body halves in response to
the downward force, wherein the slips translate vertically and radially until coming
into contact with an outside surface of the tubular segment.
[0008] Embodiments of the disclosure may further provide an apparatus for engaging a tubular
segment. The apparatus may include first and second body halves pivotally-coupled
at a hinge and moveable between an open position and a closed position, one or more
slips slidably received within downwardly and inwardly-tapered slots defined in the
first and second body halves, the one or more slips being configured to translate
within the tapered slots, and first and second timing bars coupled to the one or more
slips. The apparatus may also include first and second tension handles pivotally-coupled
to the first and second body halves, respectively, and moveable between a locked position
and an unlocked position, each tension handle having a body that is coupled to a connection
point, and first and second biasing members, each having a first end coupled to the
connection point of the first and second tension handles, respectively, and a second
end coupled to the first and second timing bars, respectively, the first and second
biasing members being configured to impart a downward force on the first and second
timing bars when the first and second handles are in the locked position, thereby
forcing the one or more slips to translate within the tapered slots until coming into
contact with the outside surface of the tubular segment.
[0009] Embodiments of this disclosure may further provide an elevator to manipulate a tubular
segment, the elevator including an elevator body with a bore formed therethrough having
an axis therein, the elevator body including a plurality of openings extending from
an outer surface of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator body, and a base
member coupled to a bottom surface of the elevator body, the base member having a
guide portion that directs the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body.
The elevator also includes a plurality of slip assemblies disposed inside the plurality
of openings and coupled to the elevator body, each of the plurality of slip assemblies
including an actuator body coupled to the elevator body, a slip, the slip including
an engagement surface disposed orthogonal to the axis of the bore of the elevator
body that engages the tubular segment, and a guide surface adjacent to a bottom surface
of the elevator body that is angled such that the tubular segment slides through the
bore of the elevator body until the tubular segment is engaged by the engagement surface,
and a powered actuator coupled to the slip and the actuator body, in which the powered
actuator is configured to retract the slip from the center of the bore of the elevator
body.
[0010] Embodiments of this disclosure may further provide a method to manufacture an elevator
that engages a tubular segment, the method including forming a bore in an elevator
body of the elevator, and forming a plurality of openings in the elevator housing
that extend from an outer surface of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator
body, assembling a plurality of slip assemblies. Assembling each of the plurality
of slip assemblies includes coupling a powered actuator to an actuator body, and coupling
the powered actuator to the slip, in which the powered actuator is configured to retract
the slip from the biased position and toward the actuator body. The method to manufacture
also includes disposing the plurality of slip assemblies inside the plurality of openings
of the elevator body, and coupling the plurality of slip assemblies to the elevator
body, wherein the plurality of slip assemblies are configured to automatically engage
the tubular segment.
[0011] Embodiments of this disclosure may further provide a method to add a tubular segment
to a drilling string of pipe, the method including rotating the tubular segment up
from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical position and grasping the
tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator. Grasping the tubular segment
includes lowering the elevator over an upper end of the tubular segment, separating
a plurality of slips from a closed position to an open position by the upper end of
the tubular segment, wherein the plurality of slips are biased toward the closed position,
and automatically enclosing the plurality of slips about an outer diameter of the
tubular segment, wherein a shoulder on the upper end of the tubular segment rests
on upper surfaces of the plurality of slips. The method to add a tubular segment also
includes lifting the tubular segment with the elevator, positioning the tubular segment
over the drilling string of pipe, threading the tubular segment onto the drilling
string of pipe by rotating the tubular segment using the elevator, and releasing the
tubular segment from the elevator by retracting the slips from the outer diameter
of the tubular segment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description
when read with the accompanying Figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with
the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In
fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced
for clarity of discussion.
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary elevator, according to one
or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the elevator of Figure 1 with tension handles
in the unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of the elevator of Figure 1 in an open position,
according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 4 illustrates a close-up view of a throat of the elevator of Figure 1, with
the tension handle in the unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments
of the disclosure.
Figure 5 illustrates a close-up view of the throat of the elevator of Figure 1, with
the tension handle in the locked position, according to one or more embodiments of
the disclosure.
Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary elevator grasping a tubular
segment, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 7 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary elevator grasping a tubular
segment, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method for engaging a tubular segment, according to one
or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figures 9A and 9B illustrate isometric views of an elevator, according to one or more
embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 10 illustrates a top view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments
of the disclosure.
Figures 11A and 11B illustrate cross-sectional views of an elevator, according to
one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 12A illustrates an isometric view of an elevator, according to one or more
embodiments of the disclosure.
Figure 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the elevator shown in Figure 12A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0013] It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary
embodiments for implementing different features, structures, or functions of the invention.
Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described
below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are
provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals andlor letters
in the various exemplary embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. This
repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate
a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments andlor configurations discussed
in the various Figures. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second
feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first
and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments
in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features,
such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. Finally, the
exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination ofways, i.e.,
any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment,
without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
[0014] Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims
to refer to particular components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, various
entities may refer to the same component by different names, and as such, the naming
convention for the elements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of
the invention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Further, the naming convention
used herein is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name
but not function. Additionally, in the following discussion and in the claims, the
terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should
be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to." All numerical values in this
disclosure may be exact or approximate values unless otherwise specifically stated.
Accordingly, various embodiments of the disclosure may deviate from the numbers, values,
and ranges disclosed herein without departing from the intended scope. Furthermore,
as it is used in the claims or specification, the term "or" is intended to encompass
both exclusive and inclusive cases,
i.e., "A or B" is intended to be synonymous with "at least one of A and B," unless otherwise
expressly specified herein.
[0015] Figures 1-3 illustrate an exemplary oilfield elevator 100, according to one or more
embodiments disclosed. The elevator 100 is moveable between a closed position, as
shown in Figures 1 and 2, and an open position, as shown in Figure 3. In one embodiment,
the elevator 100 may be a single-joint elevator configured to grasp onto and position
a singular tubular segment, such as a drill pipe or casing, for coupling to a tubular
string. The elevator 100 may include a first body half 102a and a second body half
102b pivotally connected at a hinge 104. Each body half 102a,b may have a lifting
ear 106a and 106b, respectively, integrally formed therewith or connected thereto
and configured to be coupled to or otherwise receive links (not shown) in order to
position the elevator 100 during tubular makeup operations.
[0016] The elevator 100 is moveable between the open and closed positions by pivoting each
body half 102a,b about the axis of the hinge 104. To help accommodate this movement,
one or more positioning handles 111 may be attached to the exterior of the first and
second halves 102a,b to be grasped by a user to manipulate their general position.
In other embodiments, the positioning handles 111 may be omitted and an automated
opening/closing system (not shown) may be implemented to mechanically open/close the
elevator 100. For example, the elevator 100 may be opened/closed using mechanical
devices such as hydraulics, servos, gearing, etc., without departing from the scope
of the disclosure.
[0017] The elevator 100 may be secured in the closed position with a locking apparatus 108
pivotally-coupled to the first body half 102a with a pivotal coupling 110. In other
embodiments, the locking apparatus 108 may be pivotally coupled to the second body
half 102b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In one embodiment,
the pivotal coupling 110 may be spring loaded. A locking handle 112 projects from
the locking apparatus 108 and may be grasped by a user to manually bring the first
body half 102a into proximity of the second body half 102b. Once the first and second
body halves 102a1b are proximally aligned, the locking mechanism 108 may be configured
to extend over a latch 114 (best seen in Figure 3) integrally-formed with the second
body half 102b. The latch 114 may define a perforation 116 (Figure 3) adapted to receive
a pin 118 (partially shown). The pin 118 may be extendable through corresponding perforations
(not shown) defined in the locking mechanism 108 and into the perforation 116 to secure
the locking mechanism 108 in the closed position. As illustrated, the pin 118 may
be attached to a cord or cable 120 that is anchored to the locking mechanism 108 at
an anchor point 122.
[0018] The first and second body halves 102a and 102b each define an inner circumferential
surface 124a and 124b, respectively. When the elevator 100 is in the closed position,
the inner circumferential surfaces 124a,b cooperatively define a generally circular
opening or throat 126 that may be configured to receive and secure a tubular or casing
segment. The inner circumferential surfaces 124a,b may further define a series of
tapered slots 128; one slot is 128 shown in Figures 1 and 2, and two slots 128 are
shown in Figure 3. The term "tapered" as used herein refers to the slots 128 being
inclined to the axis of the throat 126, such as being downwardly and inwardly-tapered
with respect to the axis of the throat 126.
[0019] The tapered slots 128 may be equidistantly-spaced from each other about the inner
circumferential surfaces 124a,b. In one embodiment, each inner circumferential surface
124a,b may define a total of two slots 128, but in other embodiments more or less
than two slots 128 may be provided. Moreover, the number of slots 128 defined in either
inner circumferential surface 124a,b does not necessarily have to be equal, but may
vary depending on the application.
[0020] Each slot 128 may be adapted to slidably receive a slip 130, such as slips 130a,
1 30b, 130c, and 130d (only slips 130a,b,c are shown in Figure 1). As illustrated,
the slots 128 defined in the first inner circumferential surface 124a may slidably
receive the first slip 130a and the second slip 130b, while the slots 128 defined
in the second inner circumferential surface 124b may slidably receive the third slip
130c and the fourth slip 130d. Each slip 130a-d may be partially cylindrical and configured
to engage the outside surface of a tubular segment, as will be described in more detail
below.
[0021] During elevator 100 operation, the slips 130a-d may be able to translate vertically
within their respective slots 128. To facilitate this vertical translation, each slot
128 may include one or more rails 129 (Figures 2 and 3) configured to seat a respective
slip 130a-d. The rails 129 may be configured to extend through a portion of the respective
slip 1 30a-d, thereby providing a fixed translation path for each slip 130a-d. In
at least one embodiment, each rail 129 may be encompassed by a compression spring
152 (Figure 4) adapted to continuously bias the respective slip 130a-d upward and
into an "open" position. In other embodiments, the compression springs 152 may be
separate from the rails 129 but nonetheless work in concert therewith to facilitate
the vertical translation of the slips 130a-d.
[0022] Each slip 130a-d may be maintained within its respective slot 128 using a retainer
plate 131 fastened to the first or second body halves 102a,b adjacent the upper end
of each slot 128. The retainer plates 131 may be fastened to the first or second body
halves 102a,b by any known method including, but not limited to, mechanical fasteners.
[0023] A first timing bar 132a may be used to moveably couple the first slip 130a to the
second slip 130b, such that when the first slip 130a moves, the second slip 130b moves
as well, and vice versa. A second timing bar 132b may be used to moveably couple the
third slip 130c to the fourth slip 130d such that when the third slip 130c moves,
the fourth slip 130d moves as well, and vice versa. One or more mechanical fasteners
134 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) may be used to secure the timing bars 132a,b to the
respective slips 130a-d. In other embodiments, however, the timing bars 132a,b may
be attached to the respective slips 130a-d via other attachments, such as welding,
brazing, adhesives, or combinations thereof, without departing from the scope of the
disclosure.
[0024] The elevator 100 may further include first and second tension handles 140a and 140b
pivotally coupled to the first and second body halves 102a and 102b, respectively.
Figure 1 shows the tension handles 1 40a,b in a "locked" position, and Figures 2 and
3 show the tension handles 140a,b in an "unlocked" position. In the locked position,
each tension handle 140a,b may rest or otherwise be seated within a recessed pocket
defined in the outer circumferential surface of each body half 102a,b, respectively.
Moreover, each tension handle 140a,b may include a springloaded body fixture 136 (Figure
1) adapted to bias the tension handle 140a,b into its respective recessed pocket.
[0025] To unlock the tension handles 140a,b, a user may pull radially-outward on the tension
handle 140b (or 140a), as indicated by arrow A in Figure 1, to remove it from the
recessed pocket. Once removed from the recessed pocket, the tension handle 140b may
swivel downward and back toward the body half 140b, as indicated by arrow B. Locking
the tension handles 140a,b back in place within the recessed pockets can be accomplished
by a reversal of the above-described steps.
[0026] Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, with continuing reference to Figures 1-3, illustrated
are isometric views of the elevator 100 with the tension handles 140a,b in the unlocked
(Figure 4) and locked (Figure 5) positions, according to one or more embodiments of
the disclosure. Although only the first body half 102a, including the first tension
handle 140a, is shown in Figures 4 and 5 and described below, it will be appreciated
that the following description is equally applicable to the components of the second
body half 102b, especially including the second tension handle 140b, but will not
be discussed herein for the sake of brevity.
[0027] As illustrated, the first tension handle 140a may include a body 138 that extends
generally into the throat 126 through an opening 139 defined in the first body half
102a. The opening 139 may generally extend from the outer surface of the first body
half 102a to the inner circumferential surface 124a. The body 138 may terminate at
a connection point 142 configured to be coupled to a biasing member 144, for example,
at a first end 146 of the biasing member 144. In one embodiment, the biasing member
144 may be a tension spring, as illustrated. In other embodiments, however, the biasing
member 144 may be any other device capable of providing a biasing force such as, but
not limited to, pneumatic devices, hydraulic devices, servo devices, electromagnets,
or combinations thereof.
[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection point 142 includes a ring structure,
but in other embodiments the connection point 142 may include any other type of structure
capable of being coupled to the biasing member 144. The biasing member 144 may also
include a second end 148 configured to be coupled to the first timing bar 132a. In
one embodiment, the first timing bar 132a may define one or more holes 150 for receiving
or otherwise securing the second end 148 of the biasing member 144. It will be appreciated,
however, that the second end 148 may be secured to the first timing bar 132a in any
known manner, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
[0029] When the first tension handle 140a is in the unlocked position (Figure 4), the biasing
member 144 is able to retract, at least partially, and thereby reduce the downward
force exhibited on the first timing bar 132a. As the downward force on the timing
bar 132a is removed or otherwise diminished, the compression springs 152 are able
to expand and force the first and second slips 130a,b vertically-upward and into the
open position within their respective slots 128. Since the slots 128 are inclined
to the axis of the throat 126, upward axial movement of the slips 130a,b simultaneously
results in a radial movement of the slips 130a,b away from the center of the throat
126. Consequently, in the open position the slips 130a,b provide the largest throat
126 area.
[0030] When the first tension handle 140a is returned to its locked position (Figure 5),
the connection point 142 pulls down on and engages the biasing member 144 which transmits
a generally downward force on the first timing bar 132a. As a result, the first timing
bar 132a conveys a generally downward force on the first and second slips 130a,b and
their accompanying compression springs 152, thereby causing the axial downward movement
of the slips 130a,b. Moreover, because of the tapered disposition of the slots 128,
downward axial movement of the slips 130a,b simultaneously results in a radial movement
of the slips 1 30a, b toward the center of the throat 126. Consequently, in the closed
position the slips 130a,b present the smallest throat 126 area for the elevator 100.
[0031] Referring to Figure 6, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary elevator
100 as it engages a casing or tubular segment 602, according to one or more embodiments.
In one embodiment, the tubular segment 602 may include a sleeve 604 coupled thereto.
In other embodiments, the sleeve 604 may be a collar or other upset that is integrally-formed
with the tubular segment 602. The sleeve 604 may include a circumferential shoulder
606 adapted to engage the elevator 100 at each slip 130a-d (only the second and third
slips 130b and 130d are shown in Figure 6).
[0032] The slips 130a-d may engage the tapered surface 608 of the respective slot 128 with
a corresponding inclined surface 610. Via this sloping engagement between the tapered
surface 608 and the inclined surface 610, the radial movement of the slips 130a-d
toward or away from the center of the elevator 100 is realized. Consequently, the
collective radial circumference of the slips 130a-d is able to increase and/or decrease
over a fixed range, thereby manipulating the radius of the throat 126 and enabling
the elevator 100 to receive and properly secure tubular segments 602 having a varied
and increased range of an outside diameter O
d. As will be appreciated, this may be achieved without requiring any adjustment to
or replacement of the elevator 100.
[0033] With the elevator 100 in the open position, as shown in Figure 3, the tubular segment
602 may enter the throat 126. Once the elevator 100 is closed, the tension handles
140a,b (Figures 1-3) may be moved into the locked position, as shown in Figure 5.
Moving the tension handles 140a,b into the locked position applies a spring force
on the slips 130a-d that results in the axial-downward and radial-inward movement
of the slips 130a-d. As illustrated in Figure 6, the second and third slips 130b,d
will move axially-downward and radially-inward until eventually engaging the outside
surface 612 of the tubular segment 602. The weight of the tubular segment 602 may
shift the tubular segment 602 vertically until the circumferential shoulder 606 engages
the slips 130b,d, thereby impeding its further downward progress. Via this sloping
engagement between the tapered surface 608 and the inclined surface 610 of each slip
130b,d, any increased force in the downward direction against the slips 130b,d only
tightens the engagement with the slips 130b1d on the outside diameter O
d of the tubular segment 602.
[0034] Once the tubular segment 602 is properly coupled to a tubular string or otherwise
securely captured by another lifting mechanism, the tension handles 140a,b may be
unlocked in preparation for receiving a new tubular segment 602. Unlocking the tension
handles 140a,b releases the spring forces on the slips 130a-d and allows the slips
130a-d to move axially-upward and into the open position, thereby releasing the tubular
segment 602 from engagement with the elevator 100.
[0035] Referring to Figure 7, illustrated is an isometric view of the exemplary oilfield
elevator 100 engaged with a tubular segment 702, according to one or more embodiments
disclosed. As described above, the elevator may be engaged to the tubular segment
702 at a sleeve 704. Those skilled in the art will recognize the several advantages
provided by the elevator 100. For example, the elevator 100 is able to securely grasp
onto multiple outside diameters within a nominal tubular segment 702 size. As a result,
significant savings in money and time may be gained that would otherwise be spent
in removing and replacing the elevator 100 or adjusting the settings for different
outside diameters.
[0036] As used herein, the term "single-joint elevator" is intended to distinguish the elevator
from a string elevator that is used to support the weight of the entire pipe string.
Rather, a "single-joint elevator" is used to grip and lift a tubular segment as is
necessary to add or remove the tubular segment to or from a tubular string. Furthermore,
a pipe or tubular "segment", as that term is used herein, is inclusive of either a
single pipe or tubular joint or a stand made up of multiple joints of a pipe or other
tubular that will be lifted as a unit. In the context of the present disclosure, a
tubular segment does not include a tubular string that extends into the well.
[0037] Referring now to Figure 8, illustrated is a method 800 for engaging a tubular segment.
In one embodiment, the method 800 may include positioning an elevator adjacent the
tubular segment, as at 802. The elevator may include first and second body halves
that have slips that are slidably received within corresponding tapered slots. The
corresponding tapered slots may be defined in the first and second body halves. Moreover,
a first timing bar may be coupled to the slips in the first body half and a second
timing bar may be coupled to the slips in the second body half. The method 800 may
further include closing the first and second body halves around the tubular segment,
as at 804.
[0038] First and second tension handles may then be moved from an unlocked position to a
locked position, as at 806. In one embodiment, the first and second tension handles
may be pivotally-coupled to the first and second body halves, respectively, and each
tension handle may have a body that terminates at a connection point. The method 800
may further include applying a downward force on the first and second timing bars
with first and second biasing members, as at 808. The first and second biasing members
may each have a first end coupled to the connection point of the first and second
tension handles, respectively, and a second end coupled to the first and second timing
bars, respectively. The downward force may then be transmitted from the first and
second timing bars to the slips, as at 810. The slips may be configured to translate
vertically within the tapered slots and at the same time translate radially with respect
to the first and second body halves in response to the downward force. Accordingly,
the slips may translate vertically and radially until coming into contact with an
outside surface of the tubular segment.
[0039] Referring now to Figures 9A and 9B, an elevator 900 according to one or more embodiments
is shown. In one or more embodiments, the elevator 900 may include an elevator body
910, slip assemblies 920, and a base member 930. The elevator body 910 may have a
bore 913 formed therethrough with a longitudinal axis 950 defined therethrough. In
one or more embodiments, the bore 913 formed through the elevator body 910 may receive
a tubular segment (not shown), and the elevator 900 may be used to secure and lift
the tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, the tubular segment may include a
tubular segment and may be part of a string of tubular segments. As such, in one or
more embodiments, the elevator 900 may be used to secure and lift a string of tubular
segments.
[0040] Further, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body 910 may have a pair of lifting
ears 915 disposed thereon. For example, as shown, the lifting ears 915 may be formed
on a top surface 911 of the elevator body 910, and the lifting ears 915 may be configured
to bear the entire load of the elevator 900 and the tubular segment (not shown) when
lifting the tubular segment. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the elevator
body 910 may have a guide portion 916 formed on the top surface 911 of the elevator
body 910. In one or more embodiments, the guide portion 916 may be adjacent to the
bore 913 and may direct a tubular segment into the bore 913 of the elevator body 910.
In one or more embodiments, the guide portion 916 may include a tapered surface formed
on the elevator body 910 configured to direct a tubular segment into the bore 913
of the elevator body 910. In one or more embodiments, the guide portion 916 of the
elevator body 910 may be a tapered surface that extends from a top surface 911 of
the elevator body 910 toward a center of the elevator body 910, e.g., toward the slip
assemblies 920, such that a diameter of the bore 913 decreases from the top surface
911 of the elevator body 910 to the center of the elevator body 910.
[0041] Still referring to Figures 9A and 9B, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body
910 may have a plurality of openings 917 formed therein, in which each of the openings
917 may be configured to receive a slip assembly,
e.g., a slip assembly 920. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of openings 917
may be formed through the elevator body 910,
e.g., from an outer surface 914 of the elevator body 910 to the bore 913 of the elevator
body 910.
[0042] In one or more embodiments, each of the slip assemblies 920 of the elevator 900 may
include an actuator body 921, a powered actuator 922, a biasing member (not shown),
and slips (not shown). In one or more embodiments, the slip assemblies 920 may be
disposed within the openings 917 of the elevator body 910. Further, in one or more
embodiments, the actuator body 921 of each of the slip assemblies 920 may be coupled
to the elevator body 910 to maintain the slip assemblies 920 within the openings 917
of the elevator body 910. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the powered actuator
922 of each of the slip assemblies 920 may be coupled to the actuator body 921. In
one or more embodiments, the powered actuator 922 of each of the slip assemblies 920
may include a hydraulic cylinder and may be connected to the actuator body 921. For
example, in one or more embodiments, the powered actuator 922 of each of the slip
assemblies 920 may include a hydraulic cylinder connected to the actuator body 921
by a pin (not shown). However, other powered actuators known in the art may be used.
Further, other means of coupling known in the art may be used to connect the powered
actuator 922 to the actuator body 921.
[0043] Further, in one or more embodiments, the base member 930 may be coupled to a bottom
surface 912 of the elevator body 910, and the base member 930 may have a bore (not
shown) formed therethrough and a guide portion (not shown) formed thereon. In one
or more embodiments, the bore of the base member 930 may be substantially aligned
with the bore 913 of the elevator body 910. Further, in one or more embodiments, the
guide portion of the base member 930 may be configured to direct the tubular segment
(not shown) into the bore 913 of the elevator body 910. For example, the guide portion
of the base member 930 may include a tapered surface formed on the base member 930
configured to direct a tubular segment into the bore of the base member 930. In one
or more embodiments, the guide portion of the base member 930 may taper in a direction
that is substantially opposite to a direction the guide portion 916 of the elevator
body 910 tapers.
[0044] Referring to Figure 10, a top view of an elevator 1000 having slips 1024 in a closed
position are shown in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. In one or more
embodiments, the elevator 1000 may include at least an elevator body 1010 having a
bore 1013 formed therethrough and slip assemblies 1020 coupled thereto. Further, in
one or more embodiments, the elevator body 1010 may have a pair of lifting ears 1015
disposed on a top surface 1011 of the elevator body 1010 that may be configured to
bear the entire load of the elevator 1000 and the tubular segment (not shown) when
lifting the tubular segment. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the elevator
body 1010 may have a guide portion 1016 formed on the top surface 1011. In one or
more embodiments, the guide portion 1016 may include a tapered surface, and the guide
portion 1016 may be adjacent to the bore 1013 and may direct a tubular segment into
the bore 1013 of the elevator body 1010.
[0045] Further, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body 1010 may have openings (not
shown) in which the slip assemblies 1020 may be disposed and coupled. In one or more
embodiments, each of the slip assemblies 1020 may include an actuator body 1021, a
powered actuator (not shown), the slip 1024, and a biasing member (not shown). As
discussed above, in one or more embodiments, the actuator body 1021 may be coupled
to the elevator body 1010 such that the slip assemblies 1020 are maintained within
openings (not shown) of the elevator body 1010. Further, in one or more embodiments,
the powered actuator may be coupled to the actuator body 1021. Moreover, in one or
more embodiments, the powered actuator may also be coupled to the slip 1024 such that
the slips may be retracted from the bore 1013 of the elevator body 1010,
e.g. in a direction away from the longitudinal axis 950 shown in Figure 9A. In addition,
in one or more embodiments, the biasing member may be coupled to the slip 1024 such
that the slip 1024 is biased toward the center of the bore 1013, which is a closed
position. In other words, in one or more embodiments, the biasing member may be coupled
to the slip 1024 such that the slip 1024 is biased in a direction toward the longitudinal
axis 950 shown in Figure 9A. Alternatively, one or more embodiments may not include
a biasing member. In one or more embodiments, the weight of the slip acting on an
inclined surface of the opening 1017, in which the slip 1024 is disposed, 1024 may
cause the slip 1024 to be biased toward a closed position without the use of a biasing
member. As such, in one or more embodiments, the plurality of slips 1024 may be configured
to automatically set,
e.g., engage with a tubular segment, by way of the biasing member or without the use
of the biasing member. In one or more embodiments, the slips 1024 may contact adjacent
slips 1024.
[0046] In one or more embodiments, each slip 1024 may include an engagement surface 1025
and a guide surface (not shown). In one or more embodiments, the engagement surface
1025 may be cut on each of the slips 1024 such that the engagement surface 1025 is
orthogonal to an axis,
e.g., axis 950 as shown in Figure 9A, formed by the bore 1013. In one or more embodiments,
the engagement surface 1025 may be configured to engage a portion of a tubular segment,
e.g., a shoulder of a segment of shouldered pipe. The slips 1024 according to one or
more embodiments will be discussed in greater detail below.
[0047] Referring to Figures 11A and 11B, cross-sectional views of an elevator 1100 according
to one or more embodiments are shown. As shown, in one or more embodiments, the elevator
1100 may include an elevator body 1110, slip assemblies 1120, and a base member 1130.
[0048] As discussed above, the elevator body 1110 may have a bore 1113 formed therethrough
and a longitudinal axis 1150 defined therethrough. In addition, in one or more embodiments,
the elevator body 1110 may include a pair of lifting ears 1115 (only one shown in
Figure 11) formed on a top surface 1111 of the elevator body 1110. Further, the elevator
body may have a guide portion 1116 formed on the top surface 1111 of the elevator
body 1110 adjacent to the bore 1113 that directs a tubular segment (not shown) into
the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments, the guide portion
1116 may include a tapered surface formed on the elevator body 1110 configured to
direct a tubular segment into the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110.
[0049] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body 1110 may include openings
1117 formed therein. In one or more embodiments, the openings 1117 may be configured
to receive the slip assemblies 1120. In one or more embodiments, the openings 1117
formed in the elevator body 1110 may extend from an outer surface 1114 of the elevator
body 1110 to the bore 1113. In one or more embodiments, a cross-section of the openings
may be configured to fit an outer profile of the slip assemblies 1120. For example,
in one or more embodiments, a cross-section of the openings 1117 may be relatively
square in shape, and the openings 1117 may start near the top surface 1111 on the
outer surface 1114 and finish near a bottom surface 1112 in the bore 1113 of the elevator
body 1110.
[0050] In one or more embodiments, the slip assemblies 1120A and 1120B may be disposed within
the openings 1117 and may be coupled to the elevator body 1110. As discussed above,
each of the slip assemblies 1120A and 1120B may include an actuator body 1121, a powered
actuator 1122, and a slip 1124. As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, each
actuator body 1121 may be coupled to the elevator body 1110 such that the slip assemblies
1120 may be maintained within the openings 1117. Further, in one or more embodiments,
each powered actuator 1122 may be coupled to the actuator body 1121 such that the
powered actuator 1122 may be maintained within the opening 1117 and such that the
powered actuator 1122 extends toward the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110. In one
or more embodiments, a pin 1123 may be used to couple the powered actuator 1122 to
the actuator body 1121. However, other means of coupling known in the art may be used
to connect the powered actuator 1122 to the actuator body 1121.
[0051] Furthermore, referring to Figures 11A and 11B, in one or more embodiments, the powered
actuator 1122 may be coupled to the slip 1124 such that the slip 1124 may move within
the opening 1117 of the elevator body 1110 between a closed position and an open position.
In one or more embodiments, the closed position may be one in which the slips 1124
are extended from the opening 1117 within the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110
until the powered actuator 1122 is fully stroked. In one or more embodiments, the
open position may be one in which the slips 1124 are retracted from the bore 1113
of the elevator body 1110 into the openings 1117 such that the slips 1124 may not
retain a tubular segment (not shown). However, in one or more embodiments, the closed
position may be a position in which the slips 1124 are extended from the opening 117
within the bore 1113 and contact a portion of a tubular segment. As such, the closed
position of the slips 1124 according to embodiments disclosed herein is not necessarily
limited to a position of the slips 1124 in which the power actuator 1122 is fully
stroked. In one or more embodiments, a pin 1127 may be used to couple the slip 1124
to the powered actuator 1122. However, other means of coupling known in the art may
be used to connect the powered actuator 1122 to the actuator body 1121.
[0052] In one or more embodiments, powered actuator 1122 may include a hydraulic cylinder,
in which hydraulic fluid may be introduced into/withdrawn on opposite sides of a hydraulic
piston 1135 through one or more hydraulic ports 1137 and 1139. For example, in one
or more embodiments, hydraulic fluid may be introduced into the powered actuator 1122
through an "opening" port 1137 in order to withdraw the slip 1124 (connected to piston
1135 through rod 1141) away from bore 1150 and into one or more positions between
fully open and fully closed. Similarly, hydraulic fluid may be introduced into the
powered actuator 1122 through an "closing" port 1139 in order to extend the slip 1124
toward bore 1150 and into one or more positions between fully open and fully closed.
As would be understood by those having ordinary skill, introducing fluid into opening
port 1137 may require removal of fluid from closing port 1139 and vice versa. In alternative
embodiments, a biasing member (
e.g., a spring) may bias piston 1135 toward either a fully open or a fully closed position,
such that-loss of hydraulic power to either or both ports 1137 and 1139 may allow
piston 1135 (and slip 1124 connected to piston 1135 through rod 1141) to move in a
default or "failsafe" direction. Alternatively, the weight of the slip 1124 itself
may bias the piston 1135 and slip 1124 assembly into a desired failsafe direction
within opening 1117 absent additional biasing members.
[0053] For example, as shown in Figure 11B, the slip assembly 1120A includes a biasing member
1128. In one or more embodiments, the biasing member 1128 may be disposed within the
powered actuator 1122. In one or more embodiments, the biasing member 1128 may be
disposed outside of the powered actuator but within the slip assembly 1120A such that
a portion of the biasing member 1128 is engaged with the actuator body 1121 and another
portion of the biasing member 1128 is engaged with the slip 1124. In one or more embodiments,
the biasing member 1128 may be a coil spring and may be configured to bias the slip
1124 in a direction toward the bore 1113,
e.g., toward a closed position. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the biasing
member 1128 may be configured to bias the slip 1124 in a direction away from the bore
1113,
e.g., toward a fully open position.
[0054] Additionally, referring to Figures 11A and 11B, in one or more embodiments, each
of the slips 1124 may include an engagement surface 1125 and a guide surface 1126.
In one or more embodiments, the engagement surface 1125 may be disposed on an upper
surface of the slip 1124. In one or more embodiments, the engagement surface 1125
of the slips 1124 may be configured to engage a portion of a tubular segment (not
shown) and may be configured to hold the tubular segment by a shoulder (not shown)
of the tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, the engagement surface 1125 may
extend in a direction that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1150 of the bore
1113 of the elevator body 1110. As such, the engagement surface 1125 of the slips
1124 may be configured to engage a shoulder of a shouldered tubular segment, which
may allow the shoulder of a shouldered tubular segment to be supported by the slips
1124.
[0055] Further, in one or more embodiments, the guide surface 1126 may be a tapered surface
formed on a bottom surface of the slip 1124. The guide surface 1126 may be disposed
such that a tubular segment (not shown) that is inserted into the elevator 1100 may
exert a force on the slip assemblies 1120 in order to overcome the biasing force imposed
on the slips 1124 and to separate the slips 1124 to allow the tubular segment to pass
through the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110. In other words, the guide surface
1126 of each of the slips 1124 may be configured to guide a tubular segment within
the elevator 1100 and may allow the tubular segment to be secured and supported within
the elevator 1100.
[0056] Still referring to Figures 11A and 11B, in one or more embodiments, a top surface
1132 of the base member 1130 may be connected to the bottom surface 1112 of the elevator
body 1110 such that the base member 1130 may direct a tubular segment (not shown)
into the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments, the base
member 1130 may have a bore 1131 formed therethrough. Further, in one or more embodiments,
the base member 1130 may include a guide portion 1134 that may be configured to direct
a tubular segment into the bore 1113 of the elevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments,
the guide portion 1134 of the base member 1130 may be a tapered surface that extends
from a bottom surface 1133 of the base member 1130 to the top surface 1132 of the
base member 1130 such that a diameter of the bore 1131 decreases from the bottom surface
1133 to the top surface 1132.
[0057] One or more aspects of the present invention are directed to a method to manufacture
an elevator that engages a tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, the method
to manufacture may include forming a bore in an elevator body of the elevator, forming
a plurality of openings in the elevator housing that extend from an outer surface
of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator body, and assembling a plurality
of slip assemblies. In one or more embodiments, assembling each of the plurality of
slip assemblies may include coupling a powered actuator to an actuator body, and coupling
the powered actuator to the slip, in which the powered actuator is configured to retract
the slip from the biased position and toward the actuator body. In one or more embodiments,
the method to manufacture may also include disposing the plurality of slip assemblies
inside the plurality of openings of the elevator body, and coupling the plurality
of slip assemblies to the elevator body, in which the plurality of slip assemblies
are configured to automatically engage the tubular segment.
[0058] In one or more embodiments, assembling the plurality of slip assemblies may also
include coupling a biasing member to a slip such that the slip is biased away from
the actuator body toward a biased position. Further, in one or more embodiments, the
method to manufacture may also include coupling a base member to a bottom surface
of the elevator body, in which the base member is configured to direct the tubular
segment into the bore of the elevator body.
[0059] In one or more embodiments, a tubular segment having at least two distinct outer
diameters such that a shoulder exists may be raised to stand vertically and may be
added to a string of pipes. In one or more embodiments, an elevator, as described
above, may be lowered over an end of the tubular segment that is standing vertically.
While the elevator is lowered over the end of the tubular segment, a base member of
the elevator,
e.g., a guide portion of the base member, may direct the tubular segment into a bore
of an elevator body of the elevator.
[0060] Further, in one or more embodiments, slips that are biased toward a center of the
bore of the elevator body may be separated away from each other by the tubular segment,
which may allow the tubular segment to pass through the bore of the elevator body.
For example, referring back to Figure 10, the slips 1024 may be biased toward a center
of the bore 1013 of the elevator body 1010. In one or more embodiments, a tubular
segment (not shown) may be disposed in the bore 1013, which may engage the slips 1024,
e.g., engage with the guide surface of 1126 shown in Figure 11A, which may cause the
slips 1024 to be separated away from each other. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments,
the biasing force imposed on the slips,
e.g., by way of a biasing member or by way of the weight of each of the slips disposed
on an inclined surface of the openings 1117, may cause the slips to collapse around
the smaller diameter of the outer diameters of the tubular segment. As such, in one
or more embodiments, the slips may collapse around the smaller diameter of the outer
diameters of the tubular segment such that the shoulder on the tubular segment may
rest on and be held by an engagement surface of the slips.
[0061] In one or more embodiments, the tubular segment grasped by the elevator may be lifted
by lifting ears,
e.g., the lifting ears 915 shown in Figure 9A, on a top surface of the elevator body
and may be positioned above a string of tubular segments. Further, in one or more
embodiments, the elevator may engage the tubular segment with the string of tubular
segments and may rotate such that the tubular segment is threaded to the string of
tubular segments. Once the tubular segment is connected to the string of tubular segments,
powered actuators may retract the slips away from the tubular segment, and the elevator
may be raised off of the string of tubular segments.
[0062] As such, one or more aspects of the present invention are directed to a method to
add a tubular segment to a drilling string of pipe. In one or more embodiments, the
method for adding a tubular segment to a drilling string of pipe may include rotating
the tubular segment up from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical position
and grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator. In one
or more embodiments, grasping the tubular, segment in the vertical position with an
elevator may include lowering the elevator over an upper end of the tubular segment,
separating a plurality of slips from a closed position to an open position by the
upper end of the tubular segment, in which the plurality of slips are biased toward
the closed position, and automatically enclosing the plurality of slips about an outer
diameter of the tubular segment,
e.g., by way of a biasing member or by way of the weight of each of the slips acting
on an inclined surface of the opening in which the slips is disposed, in which a shoulder
on the upper end of the tubular segment rests on upper surfaces of the plurality of
slips. In one or more embodiments, the method may also include lifting the tubular
segment with the elevator, positioning the tubular segment over the drilling string
of pipe, threading the tubular segment onto the drilling string of pipe by rotating
the tubular segment using the elevator, and releasing the tubular segment from the
elevator by retracting the slips from the outer diameter of the tubular segment.
[0063] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of slips are retracted by a powered
actuator. Further, in one or more embodiments, lifting the tubular segment with the
elevator may include lifting the elevator by a pair of lifting ears disposed on the
elevator, in which the pair of lifting ears are configured to bear a load of the tubular
segment. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of slips may not be engaged with
the tubular segment in the open position. In one or more embodiments, the plurality
of slips may be engaged with the tubular segment in the closed position. In one or
more embodiments, an engagement surface of the plurality of slips may be engaged with
the tubular segment in the closed position.
[0064] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, grasping the tubular segment in the vertical
position with the elevator further may include guiding the tubular segment along a
guide surface of the plurality of slips. Moreover, in one or more embodiments, grasping
the tubular segment in the vertical position with the elevator further may include
guiding the tubular segment along a guide portion of a base member of the elevator.
[0065] Referring now to Figures 12A and 12B, multiple views of an elevator 1200 according
to embodiments disclosed herein are shown. As shown, the elevator 1200 may include
an elevator body including a first elevator segment 1210A and a second elevator segment
1210B. In one or more embodiments, the first elevator segment 1210A may be coupled
to the second elevator segment 1210B by way of a first pin 1240 and a second pin 1241.
In one or more embodiments, the first pin 1240 and the second pin 1241 may connect
the first elevator segment 1210A to the second elevator segment 1210B. As such, in
one or more embodiments, each of the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator
segment 1210B may each include bores formed therethrough, in which the bores formed
through the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator segment 1210B are
configured to receive the first pin 1240 and the second pin 1241.
[0066] In one or more embodiments, each of the first pin 1240 and the second pin 1241 may
be removable, which may allow the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator
segment 1210B to be separated from each other. For example, in one or more embodiments,
the first pin 1240 may be removed from engagement with the first elevator segment
1210A and the second elevator segment 1210B, which may result in the first elevator
segment 1210A being able to pivot relative the second elevator segment 1210B about
the second pin 1241. As such, in one or more embodiments, the first pin 1240 may be
removed from engagement with the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator
segment 1210B, which may allow the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator
segment 1210B to pivot about the second pin 1241 and receive a tubular segment (not
shown) by separating the first elevator segment 1210A from the second elevator segment
1210B, and then closing the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator segment
1210B around the tubular segment, and then re-inserting the first pin 1240. In one
or more embodiments, each of the first pin 1240 and the second pin 1241 may be attached
to the first elevator segment 1210A and/or the second elevator segment 1210B,
e.g., by way of a cord or tether.
[0067] In one or more embodiments, the elevator 1200 may include handles 1243 disposed on
each of the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator segment 1210B. In
one or more embodiments, the handles 1243 may provide a gripping surface for an operator
and may assist the operator in pivoting each of the first elevator segment 1210A and
the second elevator segment 1210B about a pivot point,
e.g., about the first pin 1240 and/or about the second pin 1241. As such, the handles
1243 may assist an operator in opening and closing the elevator 1200 around a tubular
segment by removing the first pin 1240, pulling/pushing the handle 1243 of one of
the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator segment 1210B to pivot one
of the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator segment 1210B about a
pivot point, and then pushing/pulling the handle 1243 to close one of the first elevator
segment 1210A and the second elevator segment 1210B around a tubular segment.
[0068] Further, in one or more embodiments, the elevator 1200 may have a pair of lifting
ears 1215 disposed thereon. For example, as shown, the lifting ears 1215 may be formed
on a top surface of each of the first elevator segment 1210A and the second elevator
segment 1210B, and the lifting ears 1215 may be configured to bear the entire load
of the elevator 1200 and the tubular segment (not shown) when lifting the tubular
segment.
[0069] Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body 1210 may have a guide
portion 1216 formed on the top surface of each of the first elevator segment 1210A
and the second elevator segment 1210B. In one or more embodiments, the guide portion
1216 may be adjacent to a bore 1213 formed between the first elevator segment 1210A
and the second elevator segment 1210B and may direct a tubular segment into the bore
1213 of the elevator 1200. In one or more embodiments, the guide portion 1216 may
include a tapered surface formed on each of the first elevator segment 1210A and the
second elevator segment 1210B configured to direct a tubular segment into the bore
1213 of the elevator 1200.
[0070] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the elevator 1200 may include a plurality
of slip assemblies 1220. In one or more embodiments, the slip assemblies 1220 may
include a slip 1224 disposed within an opening 1217. In one or more embodiments, the
opening 1217 may include an inclined surface, and the weight of the slip 1224 may
cause the slip 1224 to be biased toward a closed position,
e.g., in a direction toward a longitudinal axis 1250 defined through the elevator 1200.
Further, in one or more embodiments, each of the openings 1217 may include a port
1242 formed therein, in which lubricant may be introduced into the openings 1217 through
the port 1242. Introducing lubricant into the openings 1217 may preserve the ability
of the slips 1224 to be biased toward the closed position by minimizing the coefficient
of friction between the slips 1124 and the openings 1217. In one or more embodiments,
the ports 1242 may be sealed,
e.g., by way of a cap or plug, such that materials are selectively introduced into the
openings 1217.
[0071] Optionally, in one or more embodiments, one or more of the slip assemblies 1220 may
also include a biasing member 1228. In one or more embodiments, the biasing member
1228 may be a spring that may engage a portion of the opening 1217 and a portion of
the slip 1224 such that the slip 1224 is biased toward the closed position. The biasing
member 1228 may reinforce the movement of the slip 1224 induced by the weight of the
slip 1224 acting on the inclined surface of the openings 1217 and may further ensure
that the slips 1224 may automatically be biased toward the closed position.
[0072] In one or more embodiments, the slip 1224 may include an engagement surface 1225
configured to engage with a portion of a tubular segment (not shown). In one or more
embodiments, the engagement surface 1225 may be cut on each of the slips 1224 such
that the engagement surface 1225 is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1250 of the
elevator 1200. In one or more embodiments, the engagement surface 1225 may be configured
to engage a portion of a tubular segment,
e.g., a shoulder of a segment of shouldered pipe.
[0073] The present application is a divisional application stemming from
EP 15830070.7 (
PCT/US2015/043619). The original claims of
EP 15830070.7 are included as numbered statements below and form part of the present disclosure.
Statement 1. An elevator to manipulate a tubular segment, the elevator comprising:
an elevator body with a bore formed therethrough having an axis therein, the elevator
body comprising:
a plurality of openings extending from an outer surface of the elevator body to the
bore of the elevator body;
a plurality of slip assemblies disposed inside the plurality of openings and coupled
to the elevator body, each of the plurality of slip assemblies comprising:
an actuator body coupled to the elevator body;
a slip, the slip comprising:
an engagement surface disposed orthogonal to the axis of the bore of the elevator
body that engages the tubular segment; and
a guide surface adjacent to a bottom surface of the elevator body that is angled such
that the tubular segment slides through the bore of the elevator body until the tubular
segment is engaged by the engagement surface;
a powered actuator coupled to the slip and the actuator body, wherein the powered
actuator is configured to retract the slip from the center of the bore of the elevator
body; and
a base member coupled to a bottom surface of the elevator body, the base member having
a guide portion that directs the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 2. The elevator of statement 1, each of the plurality of slip assemblies
further comprising a biasing member coupled to the slip, wherein the biasing member
biases the slip toward a center of the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 3. The elevator of statement 1, the elevator body further comprising a pair
of lifting ears disposed on a top surface of the elevator body.
Statement 4. The elevator of statement 3, wherein the pair of lifting ears are configured
to bear a load of the tubular segment.
Statement 5. The elevator of statement 1, the elevator body further comprising a guide
portion formed on the top surface of the elevator body adjacent to the bore of the
elevator body.
Statement 6. The elevator of statement 1, wherein the guide portion comprises a tapered
surface configured to direct the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 7. A method to manufacture an elevator that engages a tubular segment, the
method comprising:
forming a bore in an elevator body of the elevator; and
forming a plurality of openings in the elevator housing that extend from an outer
surface of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator body;
assembling a plurality of slip assemblies, wherein assembling each of the plurality
of slip assemblies comprises:
coupling a powered actuator to an actuator body; and
coupling the powered actuator to the slip, wherein the powered actuator is configured
to retract the slip from the biased position and toward the actuator body;
disposing the plurality of slip assemblies inside the plurality of openings of the
elevator body;and
coupling the plurality of slip assemblies to the elevator body, wherein the plurality
of slip assemblies are configured to automatically engage the tubular segment.
Statement 8. The method of statement 7, wherein assembling the plurality of slip assemblies
further comprises coupling a biasing member to a slip such that the slip is biased
away from the actuator body toward a biased position.
Statement 9. The method of statement 7, further comprising coupling a base member
to a bottom surface of the elevator body, wherein the base member is configured to
direct the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 10. A method to add a tubular segment to a tubular string of pipe, the method
comprising:
rotating the tubular segment up from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical
position;
grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator, wherein grasping
the tubular segment comprises:
lowering the elevator over an upper end of the tubular segment;
separating a plurality of slips from a closed position to an open position by the
upper end of the tubular segment, wherein the plurality of slips are biased toward
the closed position; and
automatically enclosing the plurality of slips about an outer diameter of the tubular
segment, wherein a shoulder on the upper end of the tubular segment rests on upper
surfaces of the plurality of slips;
lifting the tubular segment with the elevator.
Statement 11. The method of statement 10, further comprising:
positioning the tubular segment over the tubular string of pipe;
threading the tubular segment onto the tubular string of pipe by rotating the tubular
segment; and
releasing the tubular segment from the elevator.
Statement 12. The method of statement 10, wherein each of the plurality of slips are
retracted by a powered actuator.
Statement 13. The method of statement 10, wherein lifting the tubular segment with
the elevator comprises lifting the elevator by a pair of lifting ears disposed on
the elevator, wherein the pair of lifting ears are configured to bear a load of the
tubular segment.
Statement 14. The method of statement 10, wherein grasping the tubular segment in
the vertical position with the elevator further comprises guiding the tubular segment
along a guide surface of the plurality of slips.
Statement 15. The method of statement 10, wherein grasping the tubular segment in
the vertical position with the elevator further comprises guiding the tubular segment
along a guide portion of a base member of the elevator.
Statement 16. An elevator to manipulate a tubular segment, the elevator comprising:
an elevator body with a bore formed therethrough having an axis therein, the elevator
body including a first elevator segment and a second elevator segment, wherein each
of the first elevator segment and the second elevator segment comprise:
a plurality of openings extending from an outer surface of the elevator body to the
bore of the elevator body;
a plurality of slip assemblies disposed inside the plurality of openings of the first
elevator segment and the second elevator segment and coupled to the elevator body,
each of the plurality of slip assemblies comprising:
a slip, the slip including an engagement surface disposed orthogonal to the axis of
the bore of the elevator body that engages the tubular segment;
a first pin disposed between a first end of the first elevator segment and a first
end of the second elevator segment, wherein the first end of the first elevator segment
and the first end of the second elevator segment are coupled together by the first
pin; and
a coupling means disposed between a second end of the first elevator segment and a
second end of the second elevator segment, wherein the second end of the first elevator
segment and the second end of the second elevator segment are coupled together by
the coupling means.
Statement 17. The elevator of statement 16, wherein the coupling means is a second
pin.
Statement 18. The elevator of statement 16, wherein the coupling means is a latch.
Statement 19. The elevator of statement 16, wherein each of the plurality of slip
assemblies further comprise:
a biasing member coupled to the slip, wherein the biasing member biases the slip toward
a center of the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 20. The elevator of statement 16, wherein each of the first elevator segment
and the second elevator segment further comprise:
handles disposed on the outer surface of the elevator body.
Statement 21. The elevator of statement 16, wherein each of the first elevator segment
and the second elevator segment further comprise:
a lifting ear disposed on the top surface of the elevator body,
wherein the lifting ear of the first elevator segment and the lifting ear of the second
elevator segment are configured to bear a load of the tubular segment.
Statement 22. The elevator of statement 16, wherein each of the first elevator segment
and the second elevator segment further comprise:
a guide portion formed on a top surface of the elevator body and adjacent to the bore
of the elevator body.
Statement 23. The elevator of statement 22, wherein the guide portion comprises a
tapered surface configured to direct the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator
body.
Statement 24. The elevator of statement 22, wherein the guide portion directs the
tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 25. A method to manufacture an elevator that engages a tubular segment,
the method comprising:
forming a first elevator segment of an elevator body of the elevator;
forming a second elevator segment of the elevator body;
forming a bore in an elevator body, wherein forming the bore comprises:
coupling a first end of the first elevator segment to a first end of the second elevator
segment using a first pin; and
coupling a second end of the first elevator segment to a second end of the second
elevator segment;
forming a plurality of openings in each of the first elevator segment and the second
elevator segment of the elevator body that extend from an outer surface of the elevator
body to the bore of the elevator body;
assembling a plurality of slip assemblies inside the plurality of openings of each
of the first elevator segment and the second elevator segment of the elevator body;
and
coupling the plurality of slip assemblies to the elevator body, wherein the plurality
of slip assemblies are configured to automatically engage the tubular segment.
Statement 26. The method of statement 25, wherein the second end of the first elevator
segment and the second end of the second elevator segment are coupled using a second
pin.
Statement 27. The method of statement 25, wherein the second end of the first elevator
segment and the second end of the second elevator segment are coupled using a latch.
Statement 28. The method of statement 25, wherein assembling the plurality of slip
assemblies comprises:
coupling a biasing member to a slip such that the biasing member biases the slip toward
a center of the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 29. The method of statement 25, further comprising:
coupling handles to each of the first elevator segment and the second elevator segment.
Statement 30. The method of statement 25, further comprising:
forming a guide portion on a top surface of each of the first elevator segment and
the second elevator segment adjacent to the bore of the elevator body.
Statement 31. A method to add a tubular segment to a tubular string of pipe, the method
comprising:
rotating the tubular segment up from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical
position;
grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator, wherein grasping
the tubular segment comprises:
opening an elevator body about a first pin from a closed position to an open position,
wherein the first pin couples a first side of a first elevator segment to a first
side of a second elevator segment;
shifting the elevator body in the open position adjacent to the tubular segment;
closing the elevator body around the tubular segment such that the tubular segment
is within a bore of the elevator body and such that a shoulder on an upper end of
the tubular segment rests on upper surfaces of a plurality of slips of the elevator
body; and
coupling a second side of the first elevator segment to a second side of the second
elevator segment;
lifting the tubular segment with the elevator.
Statement 32. The method of statement 31, further comprising:
positioning the tubular segment over the tubular string of pipe;
threading the tubular segment onto the tubular string of pipe by rotating the tubular
segment; and
releasing the tubular segment from the elevator.
Statement 33. The method of statement 31, wherein:
grasping the tubular segment further comprises:
removing a second pin from the second side of the first elevator segment and the second
side of the second elevator segment of the elevator body of the elevator;
opening the elevator body to the open position;
placing the elevator around the tubular segment to be lifted; and
reinserting the second pin between the second side of the first elevator segment and
the second side of the second elevator segment; and
releasing the tubular segment from the elevator comprises:
removing one of the first pin or the second pin; and
opening the elevator body.
Statement 34. The method of statement 31, wherein:
grasping the tubular segment further comprises:
releasing a latch from the second side of the first elevator segment and the second
side of the second elevator segment;
opening the elevator body to the open position;
placing the elevator around the tubular segment to be lifted; and
latching the second side of the first elevator segment to the second side of the second
elevator segment using the latch; and
releasing the tubular segment from the elevator comprises:
releasing the latch; and
opening the elevator body.
Statement 35. The method of statement 31, wherein lifting the tubular segment with
the elevator comprises lifting the elevator by a pair of lifting ears disposed on
the elevator, wherein one of the pair of lifting ears is disposed on the first elevator
segment and the other of the pair of lifting ears is disposed on the second elevator
segment, and wherein the pair of lifting ears are configured to bear a load of the
tubular segment.
Statement 36. The method of statement 31, wherein opening and closing the elevator
body comprises:
rotating the first elevator segment and the second elevator segment about the first
pin using handles coupled to each of the first elevator segment and the second elevator
segment.
Statement 37. The method of statement 31, wherein grasping the tubular segment further
comprises:
guiding the shoulder of the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body along
a guide portion on a top surface of each of the first elevator segment and the second
elevator segment of the elevator body.
Statement 38. The method of statement 31, wherein the plurality of slips are biased
towards a center of the bore of the elevator body by a biasing member.
[0074] The foregoing has outlined features of several embodiments so that those skilled
in the art may better understand the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art
should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for
designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes
and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled
in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from
the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes,
substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure.