CONJUNTO DE ORIENTAÇÃO DE SUSPENSOR DE TUBULAÇÃO

Abstract

PIPE SUSPENSION GUIDANCE ASSEMBLY. A pipe suspension guidance assembly includes an annular structure having a first set of engagement surfaces configured to guide an engagement feature from a first end portion of the annular structure to a second end portion of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure in a first direction. A circumferential extension of the second end portion is smaller than a circumferential extension of the first end portion. The annular structure includes a second set of engagement surfaces configured to guide the engagement feature from the second end portion of the annular structure to a third end portion of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure in a second direction.The third end portion extends between a first side of the first end portion and a second side of the first end portion along a circumferential axis of the annular structure.

Description

1 / 42 “PIPE SUSPENSION GUIDANCE KIT” CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED ORDERS

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 982283 entitled Multi-Level camming helix in tubing hanger running tool, filed February 27, 2020, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This disclosure refers generally to a set of pipe hanger guidelines.

[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described below. It is believed that this discussion will be useful in providing the reader with fundamental information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light and not as admissions of prior art.

[0004] Fluids (e.g., hydrocarbons) can be extracted from subsurface reservoirs and transported to the surface for commercial sales, such as for use in the energy industry, transportation industry, manufacturing industry, and other applicable industries. For example, a well can be drilled into the ground to a subsurface reservoir, and equipment can be installed in the well and on the surface to facilitate fluid extraction. In some cases, wells can be offshore (e.g., subsea), and equipment can be deployed underwater, on offshore platforms, and / or in floating systems. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 13 / 68 2 / 42

[0005] In some drilling and production systems, a hanger, such as a pipe hanger, may be used to suspend a string (e.g., tubing for flow into and / or out of the well). Such a hanger may be disposed within a wellhead, which supports both the hanger and the string. For example, a pipe hanger may be lowered into a wellhead of a wellhead system by a drill string. During the passage or lowering process, the pipe hanger may be coupled to the drill string by a pipe hanger passage tool (THRT). Once the pipe hanger has been lowered to a seated position within the wellhead, the pipe hanger may be permanently locked in place. The THRT may then be uncoupled from the pipe hanger and extracted from the wellhead system by the drill string.

[0006] To facilitate alignment of multiple flow passages of the pipe hanger with corresponding flow passages of a production tree (e.g., which may be coupled to the wellhead after the THRT is extracted from the wellhead system), the wellhead system may include an orientation reel positioned above the wellhead. During the pipe hanger seating process, the pipe hanger may be rotated to approximately the target orientation (e.g., within 90 degrees of the target orientation). The pipe hanger may then be temporarily seated within the wellhead, and an extendable element of the orientation reel may be extended to engage in a gap. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 14 / 68 3 / 42 inside the THRT. Next, the THRT / pipe hanger can be raised. Contact between the extendable element and a cam surface of the THRT can drive the pipe hanger to a target orientation as the THRT / pipe hanger is raised. When the pipe hanger reaches the target orientation, the extendable element engages with a slot in the THRT. As the pipe hanger is subsequently lowered to its final seated position, the engagement of the extendable element with the slot maintains the pipe hanger in the target orientation, thus locating each flow passage of the pipe hanger at a target circumferential position within the wellhead. As discussed earlier, once the pipe hanger is seated, the THRT can be decoupled from the pipe hanger and extracted from the wellhead system.

[0007] To establish a wellhead system having a desired height, the length of the guide spool and the corresponding length of the THRT may be limited. Consequently, the cam surface may extend only around a portion of the circumferential extent of the THRT. As a result, as described above, the pipe hanger may be rotated to approximately the target orientation before the pipe hanger is initially seated on the wellhead. Increasing the length of the cam surface to facilitate a greater angular deviation between the initial orientation of the pipe hanger and the target orientation may undesirably increase the length of the THRT / guide spool, thus Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 15 / 68 4 / 42 establishing an undesirable bending load on the wellhead system component(s). SUMMARY

[0008] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts that are better described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid to limiting the claimed subject matter.

[0009] In certain embodiments, a pipe hanger guidance assembly includes an annular structure having multiple engagement surfaces. The engagement surfaces include a first set of engagement surfaces configured to guide an engagement feature from a first end portion of the annular structure to a second end portion of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature in a first direction. The first end portion extends around a substantial portion of a circumferential extent of the annular structure, and a circumferential extent of the second end portion is less than a circumferential extent of the first end portion.The engagement surfaces also include a second set of engagement surfaces configured to guide the engagement feature of the second end portion of the annular structure to a third end portion of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature in a second direction, opposite to the first direction. The third end portion... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 16 / 68 5 / 42 extends between a first side of the first end portion and a second side of the first end portion along a circumferential axis of the annular structure, and a circumferential extension of the third end portion is substantially equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature. Furthermore, each engagement surface is configured to cause the annular structure to rotate relative to the engagement feature in response to contact with the engagement feature and longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0010] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the detailed description below is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar characters represent similar parts in all drawings, where:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a resource extraction system;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a pipe hanger guidance assembly that can be employed within the resource extraction system of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pipe hanger passage tool (THRT) that can be employed within the pipe hanger guidance assembly of FIG. 2;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a two-dimensional projection of an external surface of the pipe hanger of FIG. 3; Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 17 / 68 6 / 42

[0015] FIG. 5 is a two-dimensional projection of an external surface of another embodiment of a THRT that can be employed within the pipe hanger orientation assembly of FIG. 2; and

[0016] FIG. 5 is a two-dimensional projection of an external surface of an additional embodiment of a THRT that can be employed within the pipe hanger guidance assembly of FIG. 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Specific embodiments of this disclosure are described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, it is not possible to describe all the features of an actual implementation in the descriptive report. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering project or undertaking, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the specific objectives of the developers, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Furthermore, it should be recognized that a development effort such as this may be complex and time-consuming, but nevertheless, it would be a routine design, manufacturing, and production task for those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure.

[0018] When the introductory elements of the various modalities, the articles a, some, and referred to are intended to indicate that one or more of the elements exist. The terms understand, include, and have are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be elements. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, p. 18 / 68 7 / 42 additional elements besides those listed. Furthermore, any use of superior, inferior, above, below, other directional terms, and variations of these terms is for convenience but does not require any specific guidance from the components.

[0019] As explained above, to establish a wellhead system having a desired height, the length of the guide spool and the corresponding length of the pipe hanger pass-through tool (THRT) may be limited. Consequently, the cam surface of the THRT may extend only around a portion of the circumferential extent of the THRT. As a result, the pipe hanger may be rotated to approximately the target orientation before the pipe hanger is initially seated within the wellhead. Increasing the cam surface length to facilitate a greater angular deviation between the initial pipe hanger orientation and the target orientation may undesirably increase the length of the THRT / guide spool, thereby establishing an undesirable bending load on component(s) of the wellhead system.

[0020] In certain embodiments disclosed in this document, a pipe hanger guidance assembly may be used that allows the THRT / pipe hanger to be oriented in any orientation during initial laying, that drives the pipe hanger to rotate to the target orientation during the laying process, and that establishes a desired length of the THRT / guidance reel. In certain embodiments, a pipe hanger guidance assembly includes an annular structure (by Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 19 / 68 8 / 42 example, THRT) having multiple engagement surfaces. The engagement surfaces include a first set of engagement surfaces configured to guide an engagement feature from a first end portion of the annular structure to a second end portion of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature in a first direction (e.g., upward direction). The first end portion extends around a substantial portion of a circumferential extent of the annular structure, and a circumferential extent of the second end portion is smaller than a circumferential extent of the first end portion.The engagement surfaces also include a second set of engagement surfaces configured to guide the engagement feature from the second end portion of the annular structure to the first end portion of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature in a second direction (e.g., downward direction), opposite to the first direction. The third end portion extends between a first side of the first end portion and a second side of the first end portion along a circumferential axis of the annular structure, and a circumferential extension of the third end portion is substantially equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature. Furthermore, each engagement surface is configured to cause the annular structure to rotate relative to the engagement feature in response to contact with the engagement feature. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 20 / 68 9 / 42 and longitudinal movement of the annular structure in relation to the engagement characteristic.

[0021] For example, in certain embodiments, the annular structure includes the THRT and the engagement feature is coupled to the guide spool.74 In such embodiments, the engagement feature may be retracted during the initial landing of the pipe hanger, which is non-rotatingly coupled to the THRT, within the wellhead. Once the pipe hanger is initially seated, the engagement feature may be extended so that the engagement feature is positioned within the first end portion of the THRT. The THRT / pipe hanger may then be moved longitudinally upward. Upward movement of the THRT / pipe hanger may cause an engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces to engage the engagement feature and guide the engagement feature to the second end portion.When the engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces guides the engagement feature to the second end portion, the contact between the engagement surface and the engagement feature drives the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to an intermediate orientation. The THRT / pipe hanger can then be moved longitudinally downwards to the final seated position. Downward movement of the THRT / pipe hanger can cause an engagement surface of the second set of engagement surfaces to engage with the engagement feature and guide the engagement feature to the third end portion. When the engagement surface of the second set of engagement surfaces guides... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 21 / 68 10 / 42 the engagement feature for the third end portion, the contact between the engagement surface and the engagement feature drives the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to a target orientation. Although the pipe hanger is in the target orientation, several flow passages of the pipe hanger are located in circumferential target positions within the wellhead (e.g., thus facilitating connection with corresponding flow passages of a production tree that may be coupled to the wellhead after the THRT and orientation reel are extracted from the wellhead system).Since the first and third end portions collectively extend around the entire circumferential extent of the THRT, the THRT / pipe hanger can be initially set in any orientation, and the pipe hanger orientation assembly can guide the THRT / pipe hanger from the initially set orientation to the target orientation.Furthermore, since the first set of engagement surfaces is configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to the intermediate orientation in response to upward movement, and the second set of engagement surfaces is configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to the target orientation in response to downward movement, the length of the THRT and the corresponding length of the orientation reel can be reduced (e.g., compared to a THRT having a single set of engagement surfaces / simple engagement surface configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate from an initial orientation to the target orientation). Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 22 / 68 11 / 42 target orientation through movement of the THRT / pipe hanger in a single direction). As a result, the bending load applied to the wellhead system component(s) can be reduced and / or the cost of the wellhead system can be reduced.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a resource extraction system 10. The resource extraction system 10 can be configured to extract various minerals and natural resources, including hydrocarbons (e.g., oil and / or natural gas) from the earth, or the resource extraction system can be configured to inject substances into the earth. In some embodiments, the resource extraction system 10 is land-based (e.g., a surface system) or subsea-based (e.g., a subsea system). As illustrated, the resource extraction system 10 includes a wellhead system 12 coupled to a mineral deposit 14 through a well 16 having a borehole 20.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the wellhead system 12 includes a guide reel 22, a wellhead 24, and a pipe hanger 28. The resource extraction system 10 may include other device(s) that are coupled to the wellhead system 12 and / or device(s) that are used to assemble various components of the wellhead system 12. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the resource extraction system 10 includes a pipe hanger through tool (THRT) 30 suspended from a drill string 32. In certain embodiments, the pipe hanger 28 supports piping (e.g., a pipe string). During a through-and-through process or Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 23 / 68 12 / 42 lowering, the THRT 30 is non-rotatingly coupled to the pipe hanger 28, thereby coupling the pipe hanger 28 to the drill string 32. The THRT 30, which is coupled to the pipe hanger 28, is lowered (e.g., passed) from an offshore vessel to the wellhead system 12. Once the pipe hanger 28 has been lowered to a seated position within the wellhead 24, the pipe hanger 28 can be permanently locked in position. The THRT can then be uncoupled from the pipe hanger 28 and extracted from the wellhead system 12 by the drill string 32, as illustrated.

[0024] In the embodiment illustrated, the wellhead system 12 includes a preventer assembly (BOP) 36. The BOP 36 may include a variety of valves, fittings, and controls to block oil, gas, or other fluid from escaping the well in the event of an unintentional pressure release or an overpressure condition. Additionally, the wellhead 24 has a borehole 38, which may provide access to the wellbore 20 for various completion and reconditioning procedures. For example, components may be passed to the wellhead system 12 and disposed of in the wellhead borehole 38 to seal the wellbore 20, to inject chemicals downhole, to suspend tools downhole to retrieve tools, and the like.

[0025] Wellbore 20 may contain high fluid pressures. For example, pressures within wellbore 20 may exceed 10,000 pounds per square inch (PSI), 15,000 PSI, or 20,000 PSI. Consequently, the system of Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 24 / 68 13 / 42 resource extraction 10 can employ various mechanisms, such as mandrels, seals, plugs, and valves, to control the well 16. For example, the pipe hanger illustrated 28 can be disposed within the wellhead 24 to secure suspended pipe in the wellbore 20 and to provide a path for hydraulic control fluid, chemical injection, electrical connections, fiber optic connections, and the like. The pipe hanger 28 includes a central hole 42 that extends through the center of a body 44 of the pipe hanger 28 and that is in fluid communication with the wellbore 20. The central hole 42 is configured to facilitate hydrocarbon flow through the body 44 of the pipe hanger 28.

[0026] In the illustrated embodiment, the resource extraction system 10 includes a pipe hanger guidance assembly 46 configured to rotate the pipe hanger 28 to a target orientation within the wellhead 24, thereby locating multiple flow passages of the pipe hanger 28 at target circumferential positions within the wellhead 24 (e.g., to facilitate connection with corresponding flow passages of a production tree that may be coupled to the wellhead after the THRT and guidance reel 22 are extracted from the wellhead system). The pipe hanger guidance assembly 46 includes the THRT 30 and the guidance reel 22. In certain embodiments, the pipe hanger guidance assembly 46 includes a coupling feature extending radially into the guidance reel 22, and the THRT 30 includes multiple coupling surfaces formed on an outer surface of the THRT.According to. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 25 / 68 14 / 42 discussed in detail below, the engagement surfaces include a first set of engagement surfaces configured to guide the engagement feature from a first end portion of the THRT to a second end portion of the THRT in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT relative to the engagement feature in a first direction (e.g., upward direction). The first end portion extends around a substantial portion of a circumferential extent of the THRT, and a circumferential extent of the second end portion is less than a circumferential extent of the first end portion.The engagement surfaces also include a second set of engagement surfaces configured to guide the engagement feature of the second end portion of the THRT to the first end portion of the THRT in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT relative to the engagement feature in a second direction (e.g., downward direction), opposite to the first direction. The third end portion extends between a first side of the first end portion and a second side of the first end portion along a circumferential axis of the THRT, and a circumferential extension of the third end portion is substantially equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature. Furthermore, each engagement surface is configured to cause the THRT to rotate relative to the engagement feature in response to contact with the engagement feature and longitudinal movement of the THRT relative to the engagement feature.As discussed in detail below, the THRT 30 / pipe hanger 28 can. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 26 / 68 15 / 42 to be raised and lowered during the installation process, thus guiding the pipe hanger towards the target orientation.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a pipe hanger guidance assembly 46 that may be employed within the resource extraction system of FIG. 1. As illustrated, the guidance reel 22 is positioned between the BOP 36 and the wellhead 24 along a longitudinal axis 48. In certain embodiments, the guidance reel may be removed after the setting process is complete (e.g., and a production tree may be coupled to the wellhead). In the embodiment illustrated, the pipe hanger guidance assembly 46 includes a coupling feature 50 extending radially into the guidance reel 22 (e.g., inward along a radial axis 52) and coupled to the guidance reel 22. Furthermore, the coupling feature 50 is movable along the radial axis 52.In certain embodiments, the engagement feature 50 is radially deflected outwards by the deflection element(s) and configured to be radially driven inwards (e.g., towards THRT 30) via hydraulic fluid supplied by a hydraulic fluid conduit 54. Consequently, while the force applied to the engagement feature 50 by the hydraulic fluid is less than the force applied by the deflection element(s), the engagement feature retracts, and while the force applied to the engagement feature 50 by the hydraulic fluid is greater than the force applied by the polarization element(s), a. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 27 / 68 16 / 42 coupling feature extends (e.g., for coupling with the THRT 30).

[0028] Although the engagement feature is configured to be driven radially inward by hydraulic fluid in the embodiment illustrated, in other embodiments, the engagement feature may be driven radially inward by another actuator(s) / actuation assembly(ies) (for example, alone or in combination with hydraulic actuation), such as electromechanical actuator(s), pneumatic actuator(s), other suitable actuator(s), or a combination thereof.Furthermore, although the radially outward deviation of the engagement characteristic is disclosed above, in certain embodiments, the engagement characteristic may be driven to move radially outward by actuator(s) / actuation assemblies (e.g., alone or in combination with the deflection element(s)), such as electromechanical actuator(s), pneumatic actuator(s), hydraulic actuator(s), other suitable actuator(s), or a combination thereof. For example, the deflection element(s) configured to drive the engagement characteristic to move radially outward may be omitted. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the engagement characteristic may be radially outward deflected by the deflection element(s). Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the pipe hanger guide assembly may include a locking device (e.g., pin, cam, etc.).) configured to block the extension of the engagement feature while the locking device is activated and stopped. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 28 / 68 17 / 42 allow extension of the engagement feature while the locking device is deactivated. Furthermore, the engagement feature can have any shape suitable for engagement with THRT 30 engagement surfaces. For example, the engagement feature can have a circular cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, or a polygonal cross-section, among other suitable cross-sectional shapes.

[0029] During the initial seating of the pipe hanger 28 within the wellhead 24 (e.g., during movement of the THRT / pipe hanger in a downward direction 56 along the longitudinal axis 48), the engagement feature 50 can be retracted, thereby facilitating passage of the THRT 30 through the guide reel 22 without engagement of the engagement feature 50 with the engagement surfaces of the THRT 30. Once the pipe hanger 28 is initially seated, as illustrated, the engagement feature 50 can be extended so that the engagement feature is positioned within the first end portion 58 of the THRT 30. The THRT / pipe hanger can then be moved in an upward direction 60 along the longitudinal axis 48.Upward movement of the THRT / pipe hanger can cause a coupling surface of a first set of coupling surfaces of the THRT 30 to engage with coupling feature 50 and guide coupling feature 50 to a second end portion of the THRT 30. When the coupling surface of the first set of coupling surfaces guides coupling feature 50 to the second end portion, the contact between the coupling surface and the... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 29 / 68 The 18 / 42 engagement feature drives the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to an intermediate orientation. The THRT / pipe hanger can then be moved downwards 56 to a final seated position. Upward movement of the THRT / pipe hanger can cause an engagement surface of a second set of engagement surfaces of the THRT 30 to engage with engagement feature 50 and guide engagement feature 50 to a third end portion of the THRT 30. When the engagement surface of the second set of engagement surfaces guides engagement feature 50 to the third end portion, contact between the engagement surface and engagement feature 50 drives the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to a target orientation.Although the pipe hanger 28 is in the target orientation, several flow passages of the pipe hanger are located in circumferential target positions within the wellhead (e.g., thereby facilitating connection to corresponding flow passages of a production tree that can be coupled to the wellhead after the THRT and orientation reel are extracted from the wellhead system).

[0030] Because the first and third end portions collectively extend around the entire circumferential extent of the THRT, the THRT / pipe hanger can be initially set in any orientation, and the pipe hanger orientation assembly 46 can drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate from the initially set orientation to the target orientation. Furthermore, as the first set of engagement surfaces Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 30 / 68 19 / 42 is configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to the intermediate orientation in response to upward movement, and the second set of engagement surfaces is configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to the target orientation in response to downward movement. The length of the THRT 30 and the corresponding length of the orientation reel 22 can be reduced (e.g., compared to a THRT having a single set of engagement surfaces / simple engagement surface configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate from an initial orientation to the target orientation through movement of the THRT / pipe hanger in a single direction). As a result, the bending load applied to the wellhead system component(s) can be reduced and / or the cost of the wellhead system can be reduced.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a THRT 30 that can be employed within the pipe hanger guidance assembly of FIG. 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the THRT 30 includes multiple engagement surfaces formed on an outer surface 64 of the THRT 30. As discussed in detail below, the engagement surfaces include a first set of engagement surfaces 66 configured to guide the engagement feature from a first end portion 58 of the THRT 30 to the second end portion 68 of the THRT 30 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature in a first direction (e.g., upward direction 60). The first end portion 58 extends around a substantial portion of a circumferential extent of the Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 31 / 68 20 / 42 THRT 30 (e.g., extension of THRT 30 along circumferential axis 62) and a circumferential extension of the second end portion 68 (e.g., extension of the second end portion 68 along circumferential axis 62) are smaller than a circumferential extension of the first end portion 58 (e.g., extension of the first end portion 58 along circumferential axis 62). In the illustrated embodiment, the second end portion 68 includes multiple recesses 70, and each engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces 66 is configured to guide the engagement feature to a respective recess 70 in response to the longitudinal movement of THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature in the first direction (e.g., the upward direction 60). However, as discussed in detail below, the second end portion may have other suitable configurations.

[0032] In addition, the engagement surfaces include a second set of engagement surfaces 72 configured to guide the engagement feature of the second end portion 68 of the THRT 30 to the third end portion 74 of the THRT 30 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature in a second direction (e.g., downward direction 56), opposite to the first direction. As illustrated, the third end portion 74 extends between a first side 76 of the first end portion 58 and a second side 78 of the first end portion 58 along the circumferential axis 62. In addition, a circumferential extension of the third end portion 74 (by Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 32 / 68 21 / 42 example, the extension of the third end portion 74 along the circumferential axis 62) is substantially equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature. For example, the circumferential extension of the third end portion may be about 5 percent, about 4 percent, about 3 percent, about 2 percent, about 1 percent, about 0.5 percent, about 0.25 percent, about 0.1 percent, or about 0.05 percent greater than the circumferential extension of the engagement feature. Each engagement surface of the THRT 30 is configured to cause the THRT 30 to rotate relative to the engagement feature in response to contact with the engagement feature and longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature. Furthermore, although the coupling feature is positioned within the third end portion 74 of the THRT 30, the pipe hanger is oriented in the target orientation.Due to the configuration of the engagement surfaces, the THRT is rotated so that the engagement feature is positioned within the third end portion 74 in response to the up and down movements of the THRT, regardless of the initial orientation of the THRT / initial circumferential position of the engagement feature relative to the THRT.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, each engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces 66 extends radially inward (for example, inward along the radial axis 52) from a first circumferential surface 80 to a second circumferential surface 82. Furthermore, each engagement surface of the second set of engagement surfaces 72 extends radially inward Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 33 / 68 22 / 42 (e.g., inward along radial axis 52) from the second circumferential surface 82 to a third circumferential surface 84. Furthermore, the engagement surfaces 86 forming the third end portion 74 extend radially inward (e.g., inward along radial axis 52) from the second circumferential surface 82 to the third circumferential surface 84. The engagement surfaces 88 forming the second end portion extend radially inward (e.g., inward along radial axis 52) from the first circumferential surface 80 to a third circumferential surface 84. Each engagement surface may have any suitable radial extension. For example, the engagement surfaces extending between the first and second circumferential surfaces may have a radial extent of about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, about 1 cm to about 4 cm, about 1 cm to about 2 cm, or about 1.27 cm.Additionally, or alternatively, the engagement surfaces extending between the first and second and third circumferential surfaces may have a radial extension of about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, about 1 cm to about 4 cm, about 1 cm to about 2 cm, or about 1.27 cm. Additionally, or alternatively, the engagement surfaces extending between the first and third circumferential surfaces may have a radial extension of about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 2 cm to about 8 cm, about 2 cm to about 4 cm, or about 2.54 cm. Because the engagement feature is radially driven / impelled inward, the engagement feature may substantially maintain contact with the respective first surface. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, p. 34 / 68 23 / 42 second or third circumferential surfaces during the up and down movement of the THRT / pipe hanger. Although the THRT 30 includes three surfaces that establish three radial extensions in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the THRT may have more or fewer surfaces (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 6 or more) to establish more or fewer radial extensions of different engagement surfaces.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a two-dimensional projection of the outer surface 64 of the THRT 30 of FIG. 3, in which the second circumferential surface 82 and the third circumferential surface 84 are represented by different background patterns. As discussed earlier, the engagement surfaces include a first set of engagement surfaces 66 configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 of the THRT 30 to the second end portion 68 of the THRT 30 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature in a first direction (e.g., upward direction 60).Furthermore, the engagement surfaces include a second set of engagement surfaces 72 configured to guide the engagement feature from the second end portion 68 of the THRT 30 to the third end portion 74 of the THRT 30 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature in a second direction (e.g., downward direction 56), opposite to the first direction. Additionally, each engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces 66 extends radially inward from the first circumferential surface 80 to the second circumferential surface 82, each surface of... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 35 / 68 24 / 42 engagement of the second set of engagement surfaces 72 extends radially into the second circumferential surface 82 to the third circumferential surface 84, the engagement surfaces 86 that form the third end portion 74 extend radially into the second circumferential surface 82 to the third circumferential surface 84 and the engagement surfaces 88 that form the second end portion 68 extend radially into the first circumferential surface 80 to the third circumferential surface 84.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the recesses 70 of the second end portion 68 include a first recess 90 and a second recess 92. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surfaces include a first engagement surface 94, which is part of the first set of engagement surfaces 66, configured to guide the engagement feature 50 of the first end portion 58 to the first recess 90 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the first direction (e.g., upward direction 60).In addition, the engagement surfaces include a second engagement surface 96 configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 or the third end portion 74 (e.g., if the engagement feature 50 is positioned within the third end portion 74 after the initial settling of the pipe hanger) to the first recess 90 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the first direction (e.g., upward direction 60). Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 36 / 68 25 / 42 As illustrated, the first and second engagement surfaces converge towards the first recess 90. The engagement surfaces also include a third engagement surface 98, which is part of the first set of engagement surfaces 66, configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 to the second recess 92 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the first direction (e.g., upward direction 60).Furthermore, the engagement surfaces include a fourth engagement surface 100 configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 or the third end portion 74 (e.g., if the engagement feature 50 is positioned within the third end portion 74 after initial settling of the pipe hanger) to the second recess 92 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the first direction (e.g., upward direction 60). As illustrated, the third and fourth engagement surfaces converge towards the second recess 92. Consequently, the first, second, third, and fourth engagement surfaces are configured to guide the engagement feature to one of the recesses in response to upward movement of the THRT, regardless of the initial orientation of the THRT / initial circumferential position of the engagement feature relative to the THRT.

[0036] In addition, the engagement surfaces include a fifth engagement surface 102, which is part of the second set of engagement surfaces 72, configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first recess 90 to the Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 37 / 68 26 / 42 third end portion 74 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the second direction (e.g., downward direction 56). The engagement surfaces also include a sixth engagement surface 104, which is part of the second set of engagement surfaces 72, configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the second recess 92 to the third end portion 74 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 30 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the second direction (e.g., downward direction 56). As illustrated, the fifth and sixth engagement surfaces converge towards the third end portion 74. Therefore, the fifth and sixth engagement surfaces are configured to guide the engagement feature to the third end portion in response to upward movement of the THRT, regardless of the intermediate orientation of the THRT / which recess receives the engagement feature.As a result, the THRT is rotated so that the engagement feature is positioned within the third end portion 74 in response to the up and down movements of the THRT, regardless of the initial orientation of the THRT / initial circumferential position of the engagement feature relative to the THRT.

[0037] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the first engagement surface 94 and the third engagement surface 98 have a first radial extension (for example, from the first circumferential surface 80 to the second circumferential surface 82), the second engagement surface 96 and the fourth engagement surface 100 have a second radial extension (for example, from the first circumferential surface Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 38 / 68 27 / 42 for the third circumferential surface 84), and the second radial extension is greater than the first radial extension. However, in other embodiments, the second radial extension may be less than or equal to the first radial extension and / or in certain embodiments, the first and third engagement surfaces may have different radial extensions and / or the second and fourth engagement surfaces may have different radial extensions. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a third radial extension (e.g., from the first circumferential surface 80 to the third circumferential surface 84) of the engagement surfaces 88 forming the first and second recesses is substantially equal to the second radial extension of the second and fourth engagement surfaces.However, in other embodiments, the third radial extension may be greater or less than the second radial extension and / or in certain embodiments, at least two engagement surfaces forming the first and second recesses may have different radial extensions. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the fifth engagement surface 102 and the sixth engagement surface 104 have a fourth radial extension (e.g., from the second circumferential surface 82 to the third circumferential surface 84), and the fourth radial extension is substantially equal to the second radial extension minus the first radial extension. However, in other embodiments, the fourth radial extension may be greater or less than the second radial extension minus the first radial extension and / or in certain embodiments, the fifth and sixth engagement surfaces may have different radial extensions. In the illustrated embodiment, a fifth radial extension (e.g., from the... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pp. 39 / 68 28 / 42 second circumferential surface 82 to the third circumferential surface 84) of the engagement surfaces 86 forming the third end portion 74 is substantially equal to the second radial extension minus the first radial extension. However, in other embodiments, the fifth radial extension may be greater or less than the second radial extension minus the first radial extension and / or in certain embodiments, at least two of the engagement surfaces forming the third end portion may have different radial extensions.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the radial extent of each engagement surface is substantially constant. However, in other embodiments, the radial extent of at least one engagement surface may vary along the extent of the engagement surface. Furthermore, the radial extent of each of the first, second, and third circumferential surfaces is substantially constant. However, in other embodiments, the radial extent of at least one of the first circumferential surface, the second circumferential surface, or the third circumferential surface may vary (e.g., along the longitudinal axis and / or along the circumferential axis).

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, each engagement surface is substantially straight (e.g., in the illustrated two-dimensional projection) and oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 48. For example, the first engagement surface 94 and the third engagement surface 98 may be oriented at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 50 degrees. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, p. 40 / 68 29 / 42 degrees, approximately 35 degrees to approximately 40 degrees, or approximately 38 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the second engagement surface 96, the fourth engagement surface 100, the fifth engagement surface 102, and the sixth engagement surface 104 can be oriented at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to approximately 80 degrees, approximately 20 degrees to approximately 70 degrees, approximately 30 degrees to approximately 60 degrees, approximately 30 degrees to approximately 50 degrees, approximately 35 degrees to approximately 40 degrees, or approximately 36 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. While the first and third engagement surfaces are oriented substantially at the same angle in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the first and third engagement surfaces may be oriented at different angles.Furthermore, while the second, fourth, fifth, and sixth engagement surfaces are oriented at the same angle in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, at least two of the second engagement surface, the fourth engagement surface, the fifth engagement surface, or the sixth engagement surface may be oriented at different angles. Since each engagement surface is substantially straight in the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surfaces collectively form a substantially bent helical shape, in which the bend is positioned at the second end portion. Although each engagement surface is substantially straight (e.g., in the illustrated two-dimensional projection) in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, at least one of the engagement surfaces may have another suitable shape (e.g., curved, wavy, polygonal, etc.). Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 41 / 68 30 / 42

[0040] By way of example, during the settling process, the engagement feature 50 may be located in the position illustrated along the circumferential axis 62 after initial settling of the THRT / pipe hanger. As discussed earlier, after initial settling, the engagement feature 50 may be extended so that the engagement feature engages with the second circumferential surface 82 or the third circumferential surface 84 of the THRT 30. The THRT 30 may then be moved upwards 60. When the THRT 30 moves upwards, the engagement feature 50 may move towards the first engagement surface 94, contact the first engagement surface 94 and then move along the first engagement surface 94 to the first recess 90.Contact between engagement feature 50 and the first engagement surface 94 can trigger THRT 30 to rotate in response to the upward movement of THRT 30, so that THRT 30 reaches an intermediate orientation when engagement feature 50 engages with the first recess 90. THRT 30 can then be moved in the downward direction 56. When THRT 30 moves downward, engagement feature 50 can move along the fifth engagement surface 102 to the third end portion 74. Contact between engagement feature 50 and the fifth engagement surface 102 can trigger THRT 30 to rotate in response to the downward movement of THRT 30, so that THRT 30 reaches the target orientation when engagement feature 50 engages with the third end portion 74. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 42 / 68 31 / 42

[0041] FIG. 5 is a two-dimensional projection of an external surface 108 of another embodiment of a THRT 110 that can be employed within the pipe hanger orientation assembly of FIG. 2, wherein the second circumferential surface 82 and the third circumferential surface 84 are represented by different background patterns. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end portion 111 of the THRT 110 is formed by engagement surfaces 112 that form a first side 114 of the second end portion 111, a second side 116 of the second end portion 111, and a third side 117 of the second end portion 111, which extends from the first side 114 to the second side 116 of the second end portion 111. The second end portion 111 extends approximately half the circumferential extent of the THRT 110 (e.g., the extent of the THRT 110 along the circumferential axis 62).As used in this document in relation to the second end portion 111, approximately half refers to about 25 percent to about 75 percent, about 30 percent to about 70 percent, about 35 percent to about 65 percent, about 40 percent to about 60 percent, about 45 percent to about 55 percent, or about 50 percent of the circumferential extent of the THRT. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surface 112 of the third side 117 of the second end portion 111 is substantially straight (e.g., in the illustrated two-dimensional projection). However, in other embodiments, the engagement surface of the third side of the second end portion may have another suitable shape (e.g., curved, wavy, polygonal, etc.). Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, p. 43 / 68 32 / 42 For example, in certain embodiments, the engagement surface of the third side of the second end portion may include a semicircular shape (for example, in which the apex of the semicircular shape is substantially aligned with the third end portion).

[0042] While the engagement surfaces 112 forming the first side 114 and the second side 116 of the second end portion 111 extend substantially along the longitudinal axis 48 in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the engagement surface(s) forming at least one of the first or second side of the second end portion may be inclined relative to the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, while the engagement surfaces 112 forming the first side 114 and the second side 116 of the second end portion 111 are substantially straight in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the engagement surface(s) forming at least one of the first or second side of the second end portion may have another suitable shape (e.g., curved, wavy, polygonal, etc.).Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the engagement surface(s) forming at least one of the first or second sides of the second end portion may be omitted, and the respective engagement surfaces of the first set of engagement surfaces may extend to the engagement surface of the third side of the second end portion.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the first engagement surface 94 is configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 to the second end portion 111 and the third engagement surface 98 is Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 44 / 68 33 / 42 configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 to the second end portion 111. Furthermore, if the engagement feature 50 is positioned within the third end portion 74 after the initial settling of the pipe hanger, the engagement feature 50 can move to the second end portion without being guided by an engagement surface in response to movement of the THRT 110 in the first direction (e.g., upward direction 60). Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surfaces 112 forming the second end portion 111 extend radially into the first circumferential surface 80 to the third circumferential surface 84.As further discussed, the engagement surfaces extending between the first and third circumferential surfaces may have a radial extent of about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 2 cm to about 8 cm, about 2 cm to about 4 cm, or about 2.54 cm. However, in other embodiments, at least one engagement surface 112 of the second end portion 111 may have any other suitable radial extent (e.g., the engagement surface(s) may extend between other suitable surfaces). For example, in certain embodiments, at least two engagement surfaces of the second end portion may have different radial extents. Furthermore, any of the variations with respect to the first, second, and third circumferential surfaces and the engagement surfaces disclosed above with reference to THRT of FIGS. 3-4 may apply to THRT 110 of the illustrated embodiment. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, p. 45 / 68 34 / 42

[0044] By way of example, during the settling process, the engagement feature 50 may be located in the position illustrated along the circumferential axis 62 after the initial settling of the THRT / pipe hanger. As discussed earlier, after the initial settling, the engagement feature 50 may be extended so that the engagement feature engages on the second circumferential surface 82 or the third circumferential surface 84 of the THRT 110. The THRT 110 may then be moved in the upward direction 60. When the THRT 110 moves upward, the engagement feature 50 may move towards the first engagement surface 94, contact the first engagement surface 94 and then move along the first engagement surface 94 to the second end portion 111.Contact between the engagement feature 50 and the first engagement surface 94 can cause the THRT 110 to rotate in response to the upward movement of the THRT 110, so that the THRT 110 reaches an intermediate orientation when the engagement feature 50 enters the second end portion 111 (for example, contacts the engagement surface 112 of the third side 117 of the second end portion 111). The THRT 110 can then be moved in the downward direction 56. When the THRT 110 moves downward, the engagement feature 50 can move along the fifth engagement surface 102 to the third end portion 74. Contact between the engagement feature 50 and the fifth engagement surface 102 can cause the THRT 110 to rotate in response to the downward movement of the THRT 110, so that the THRT 110... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 46 / 68 35 / 42 achieves target orientation when engagement feature 50 engages with the third end portion 94.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a two-dimensional projection of an external surface 118 of a further embodiment of a THRT 120 that can be employed within the pipe hanger guidance assembly of FIG. 2, in which the second circumferential surface 82 is represented by a background pattern. In the illustrated embodiment, each engagement surface extends from the first circumferential surface 80 to the second circumferential surface 82. For example, the engagement surfaces extending between the first and second circumferential surfaces may have a radial extent of about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, about 1 cm to about 4 cm, about 1 cm to about 2 cm, or about 1.27 cm.Although each engagement surface has the same radial extent in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, at least one engagement surface may have a different radial extent (for example, due to variation(s) in the radial spacing between the first and second circumferential surfaces). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the radial extent of each engagement surface is substantially constant. However, in other embodiments, the radial extent of at least one engagement surface may vary along the extent of the engagement surface. In addition, the radial extent of each of the first, second, and third circumferential surfaces is substantially constant. However, in other embodiments, the radial extent of at least one of the first circumferential surface, or of the second circumferential surface, may vary (for example, to...). Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pp. 47 / 68 36 / 42 along the longitudinal axis and / or along the circumferential axis).

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the THRT 120 includes multiple engagement surfaces configured to guide the engagement feature 50. The engagement surfaces include a first set of engagement surfaces 122 configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the first end portion 58 to the second end portion 124 of the THRT 120 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 120 in the first direction (e.g., upward direction 60).As discussed earlier, the first end portion 58 extends around a substantial portion of the circumferential extent of THRT 120 (e.g., the extent of THRT 120 along the circumferential axis 62), and the circumferential extent of the second end portion 124 (e.g., the extent of the second end portion 124 along the circumferential axis 62) is smaller than the circumferential extent of the first end portion 58 (e.g., the extent of the first end portion 58 along the circumferential axis 62). The engagement surfaces also include a second set of engagement surfaces 126 configured to guide the engagement feature 50 from the second end portion 124 of the THRT 120 to the third end portion 74 of the THRT 120 in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT 120 relative to the engagement feature 50 in the second direction (e.g., down direction 56).As discussed earlier, the third end portion 74 extends between the first side 76 of the first end portion 58 and the second side 78 of the... Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 48 / 68 37 / 42 first end portion 58 along the circumferential axis 62 and a circumferential extension of the third end portion 74 is substantially equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature 50.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the first set of engagement surfaces 122 includes a first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 128 and a second pair of opposing engagement surfaces 130. Furthermore, the second set of engagement surfaces 126 includes a first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 132 and a second pair of opposing engagement surfaces 134. The first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 128 of the first set of engagement surfaces 122 is configured to guide the engagement feature 50 of the first end portion 58 to a first recess 136 of the second end portion 124, and the second pair of opposing engagement surfaces 130 of the first set of engagement surfaces 122 is configured to guide the engagement feature 50 of the first end portion 58 to a second recess 138 of the second end portion 124.Furthermore, if the engagement feature 50 is positioned within the third end portion 74 after the initial placement of the pipe hanger, the first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 132 of the second set of engagement surfaces 126 can guide the engagement feature 50 from the third end portion 74 to the first recess 136 of the second end portion 124, or the second pair of opposing engagement surfaces 134 of the second set of engagement surfaces 126 can guide the feature of. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pp. 49 / 68 38 / 42 coupling 50 of the third end portion 74 to the second recess 138 of the second end portion 124. Furthermore, if coupling feature 50 is positioned within the third end portion 74 after the initial settling of the pipe hanger, the first pair of opposing coupling surfaces 132 of the second set of coupling surfaces 126 may guide coupling feature 50 of the third end portion 74 to the first recess 136 of the second end portion 124, or the second pair of opposing coupling surfaces 134 of the second set of coupling surfaces 126 may guide coupling feature 50 of the third end portion 74 to the second recess 138 of the second end portion 124. Although each recess is substantially V-shaped in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, at least one recess may have another suitable shape.

[0048] By way of example, during the settling process, the engagement feature 50 may be located in the position illustrated along the circumferential axis 62 after the initial settling of the THRT / tubing hanger. As discussed earlier, after the initial settling, the engagement feature 50 may be extended so that the engagement feature engages the second circumferential surface 82 of the THRT 120. The THRT 120 may then be moved in the upward direction 60. As the THRT 120 moves upward, the engagement feature 50 may move towards an engagement surface of the first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 128 of the first set of engagement surfaces 122, contact the respective engagement surface and then move along the respective Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 50 / 68 39 / 42 engagement surface for the first recess 136 of the second end portion 124. Contact between engagement feature 50 and the respective engagement surface can drive the THRT 120 to rotate in response to the upward movement of the THRT 120, so that the THRT 120 reaches an intermediate orientation when engagement feature 50 engages in the first recess 136. The THRT 120 can then be moved in the downward direction 56. As the THRT 120 moves downward, engagement feature 50 can move along the first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 132 of the second set of engagement surfaces 126 to the third end portion 74.Contact between the engagement feature 50 and the first pair of opposing engagement surfaces 132 of the second set of engagement surfaces 126 can cause the THRT 120 to rotate in response to the downward movement of the THRT 120, so that the THRT 120 achieves the target orientation when the engagement feature 50 engages with the third end portion 74.

[0049] Although embodiments in which the engagement feature is coupled to the guide spool and the engagement surfaces are formed on the outer surface of the THRT (e.g., annular structure) are disclosed above, in certain embodiments, the engagement feature may be coupled to the THRT and the engagement surfaces may be formed on the inner surface of the guide spool (e.g., annular structure). In such embodiments, the engagement surface configuration may be inverted so that the second end portion is positioned above the first and third end portions (e.g., the two-dimensional projection may be inverted). Furthermore, during the Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pp. 51 / 68 40 / 42 Initial placement of the tubing hanger, the engagement feature can be positioned within the first end portion or the third end portion at the bottom of the guide spool. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the engagement feature can be coupled to another suitable component (e.g., of the wellhead system) and the engagement surfaces can be formed on an annular component / structure (e.g., of the wellhead system). For example, in certain embodiments, the engagement feature can be coupled to the guide spool, a production tree, the BOP, a casing spool, a tubing spool, or another suitable component (e.g., of the wellhead system), and the engagement surfaces can be formed on the outer surface of the THRT, on the tubing hanger, or another annular component / structure (e.g., of the wellhead system).Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the engagement feature can be coupled to THRT, the tubing hanger or other suitable component (e.g., of the wellhead system) and the engagement surfaces can be formed on the inner surface of the guide spool, a production tree, the BOP, a casing spool, a tubing spool or other suitable annular component / structure (e.g., of the wellhead system).

[0050] Technical effects of disclosure include allowing the pipe hanger to be initially set in any orientation and guiding the pipe hanger to the target orientation via up and down movement of the pipe hanger. For example, as the first and the Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 52 / 68 41 / 42 third end portions extend collectively around the entire circumferential extent of the THRT, the THRT / pipe hanger can be initially set in any orientation and the pipe hanger orientation assembly can drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate from the initially set orientation to the target orientation.Furthermore, since the first set of engagement surfaces is configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to an intermediate orientation in response to upward movement, and the second set of engagement surfaces is configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate to the target orientation in response to downward movement, the length of the THRT and the corresponding length of the orientation reel can be reduced (e.g., compared to a THRT having a single set of engagement surfaces / simple engagement surface configured to drive the THRT / pipe hanger to rotate from an initial orientation to the target orientation through movement of the THRT / pipe hanger in a single direction). As a result, the bending load applied to the wellhead system component(s) can be reduced and / or the cost of the wellhead system can be reduced.

[0051] Although only certain features have been illustrated and described in this document, many modifications and changes will occur for those skilled in the art. It should therefore be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all modifications and alterations that fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

[0052] The techniques presented and claimed in this Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 53 / 68 42 / 42 of this document are referenced and applied to material objects and concrete examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve the present technical field and, as such, are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claims appended to the end of this descriptive report contain one or more elements designated as means to [perform] [a function]... or steps to [perform] [a function]..., such elements are intended to be interpreted under 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claims containing elements designated in any other way, such elements are not intended to be interpreted under 35 USC 112(f). Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pages 54 / 68

Claims

1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. Pipe hanger guidance assembly (46), characterized in that it comprises: an annular structure having a plurality of engagement surfaces, wherein the plurality of engagement surfaces comprises: a first set of engagement surfaces (66) configured to guide an engagement feature (50) from a first end portion (58) of the annular structure to a second end portion (68) of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature (50) in a first direction (60), wherein the first end portion (58) extends around a portion of a circumferential extension of the annular structure and a circumferential extension of the second end portion (68) is less than a circumferential extension of the first end portion (58);and a second set of engagement surfaces (72) configured to guide the engagement feature (50) of the second end portion (68) of the annular structure to a third end portion (74) of the annular structure in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure relative to the engagement feature (50) in a second direction (56), opposite to the first direction (60), wherein the third end portion (74) extends between a first side (76) of the first end portion (58) and a second side (78) of the first end portion (58) along a circumferential axis (62) of the annular structure and a circumferential extension of the third end portion (74) is equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature (50);wherein each engagement surface of the plurality of engagement surfaces is configured to actuate the annular structure to rotate about the engagement feature (50) in response to contact with the engagement feature (50) and longitudinal movement of the annular structure about the engagement feature (50); wherein the second end portion (68) comprises a plurality of recesses (70) and each engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces (66) is configured to guide the engagement feature (50) to a respective recess of the plurality of recesses (70) in response to longitudinal movement of the annular structure about the engagement feature (50) in the first direction (60).

2. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 1, characterized in that the annular structure comprises a pipe hanger passage tool (THRT) (30) and the plurality of engagement surfaces is formed on an outer surface (64) of the THRT (30).

3. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 1, characterized in that each engagement surface of the first set of engagement surfaces (66) extends radially inward from a first circumferential surface (80) to a second circumferential surface (82) and each engagement surface of the second set of engagement surfaces (72) extends radially inward from the second circumferential surface (82) to a third circumferential surface.

4. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 3, characterized in that: (a) engagement surfaces forming the third end portion (74) extend radially into the second circumferential surface (82) to the third circumferential surface; or (b) an engagement surface forming the second end portion (68) extends radially into the second circumferential surface (82) to the third circumferential surface.

5. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 1, characterized in that: the second end portion (68) extends from 25% to 75% of the circumferential extent of the annular structure.

6. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first set of engagement surfaces (66) comprises two pairs of opposing engagement surfaces and the second set of engagement surfaces (72) comprises two pairs of opposing engagement surfaces.

7. Pipe hanger guidance assembly (46), according to claim 1, characterized in that the annular structure is a pipe hanger through-the-way (THRT) tool (30), the engagement feature (50) extends radially into an orientation reel (22) and the engagement feature (50) is movable along a radial axis (52) of the pipe hanger guidance assembly (46).

8. Pipe hanger guidance assembly (46), characterized in that it comprises: a pipe hanger passage tool (THRT) (30) having a plurality of engagement surfaces (66) formed on an outer surface (64) of the THRT (30), wherein the plurality of engagement surfaces comprises: a first engagement surface (94) configured to guide an engagement feature (50) from a first end portion (58) of the THRT (30) to a first recess (90) of a second end portion (68) of the THRT (30) in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50) in a first direction (60), wherein the first end portion (58) extends around a portion of a circumferential extension of the THRT (30);a second engagement surface (96) configured to guide the engagement feature (50) of the first end portion (58) of the THRT (30) to the first recess (90) in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50) in the first direction (60), wherein the first and second engagement surfaces converge to the first recess (90); a third engagement surface (98) configured to guide the engagement feature (50) of the first end portion (58) of the THRT (30) to a second recess (92) of the second end portion (68) of the THRT (30) in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50) in the first direction (60);Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 58 / 68 5 / 6 a fourth engagement surface (100) configured to guide the engagement feature (50) of the first end portion (58) of the THRT (30) to the second recess (92) in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50) in the first direction (60), wherein the third and fourth engagement surfaces converge to the second recess (92);a fifth engagement surface (102) configured to guide the engagement feature (50) from the first recess (90) to a third end portion (74) in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50) in a second direction (56), opposite to the first direction (60), wherein the third end portion (74) extends between a first side (76) of the first end portion (58) and a second side (78) of the first end portion (58) along a circumferential axis (62) of the THRT (30) and a circumferential extension of the third end portion (74) is equal to a circumferential extension of the engagement feature (50);and a sixth engagement surface (104) configured to guide the engagement feature (50) from the second recess (92) to the third end portion (74) in response to longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50) in the second direction (56), wherein the fifth and sixth engagement features converge towards the third end portion (74); wherein each engagement surface of the plurality of engagement surfaces is configured to actuate the THRT (30) to rotate relative to the engagement feature (50) in Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, page 59 / 68 6 / 6 response to contact with the engagement feature (50) and longitudinal movement of the THRT (30) relative to the engagement feature (50).; 9. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 8, characterized in that the first engagement surface (94) and the third engagement surface (98) have a first radial extension, the second engagement surface (96) and the fourth engagement have a second radial extension and the second radial extension is greater than the first radial extension.

10. Pipe hanger guide assembly (46), according to claim 9, characterized in that: (a) a third radial extension of the engagement surfaces forming the first and second recesses is equal to the second radial extension of the second and fourth engagement surfaces; (b) the fifth engagement surface (102) and the sixth engagement surface (104) have a fourth radial extension and the fourth radial extension is equal to the second radial extension less the first radial extension; or (c) a fifth radial extension of engagement surfaces forming the third end portion (74) is equal to the second radial extension less the first radial extension. Petition 870260066820, dated 06 / 07 / 2026, pp. 60 / 68

Images