APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FIXING A COMPONENT TO A WELL TOOL

Description

1 / 19 APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FIXING A COMPONENT TO A WELL TOOL Divided from BR 11 2022 025441-5 CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED ORDERS

[0001] This is a non-provisional application claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 051,666, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. FUNDAMENTALS

[0002] A variety of tools are used in the drilling, completion, stimulation, and production of oil and gas wells. The tools are often tubular, to conform to the generally round profile of the drilled well and to other tubular tools. For example, a well may be drilled with a drill bit at the lower end of a tubular drill string that is progressively assembled to reach the desired well depth and then removed. During drilling, fluid is circulated through the drill pipe to lubricate the drill bit and remove cuttings. After drilling, a relatively large diameter tubular casing string may be lowered into the wellbore and secured by circulating cement in the bottom hole and through an annulus between the casing and the formation.This casing string reinforces the wellbore and can be drilled at selected depths and intervals to extract hydrocarbon fluids from a production zone(s) of the formation. The well can be stimulated by sealing and distributing fluid to selected production zones. A production tubing string can then be run down the well to the production zone, protecting the casing and providing a flow path to a wellhead through which oil and gas can be produced.

[0003] In each of the various well drilling operations, it is often necessary to seal between adjacent surfaces. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 12 / 49 2 / 19 between the tubular equipment and / or with the wellbore. For example, during fracturing or cementing operations, various fluids are pumped into the well and hydraulically forced out into a surrounding subsurface formation. This typically requires wellbore sealing to provide zonal isolation. Wellbore isolation devices, such as packers, bridge plugs, and fracturing plugs (i.e., frac plugs) are designed for these general purposes. Such wellbore isolation devices may be used in direct contact with the wellbore formation face or with a casing string lining the wellbore walls. A universal challenge in downhole sealing systems is designing robust mechanisms that fit within the tight confines of the downhole. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0004] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an elongated sealing system coupled to a mandrel by a pair of retaining rings.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the chuck supported in an optional chuck holder to facilitate mounting.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a side view of one of the retaining rings of FIG. 1 in a retaining ring assembly process on the mandrel.

[0007] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining ring fixed to the chuck by a retaining segment with a round cross-sectional shape.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of a retaining ring fixed to the chuck by a retaining segment with a stepped cross-sectional shape.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of yet another alternative configuration of a retaining ring attached to Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 13 / 49 3 / 19 mandrel by a retaining segment with an I-beam shaped cross-section.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a side view of the retaining ring once mounted on the chuck.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a side view of another retaining ring configuration employing a spring in the channel with interlocking end segments at each end of the closure.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative V-shaped retaining closure style. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] This disclosure includes apparatus and methods for attaching any of a variety of components to a tubular member of a downhole tool. The disclosed examples are particularly suitable for attaching a sealing element to a mandrel, for example. Aspects of this disclosure are directed to retaining such a sealing element or other component in a manner that reduces component stress during assembly and related sources of seal failure. The disclosed systems address certain challenges due to, for example, gas-tight requirements, high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) environments. The disclosed systems and methods are also suitable for dynamic sealing applications where space is limited, where reduced clearances between moving parts are required for sealing functionality, and where material systems are pushed to their limits.

[0014] In some examples, a retaining ring is secured in a mandrel by positioning pre-formed retaining segments in a channel defined between the mandrel and the retaining ring. The channel is cooperatively defined by a ring groove extending circumferentially along an inner surface of the retaining ring and a mandrel groove extending circumferentially along an outer surface of the retaining ring. Pre-formed segments may be inserted Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, p. 14 / 49 4 / 19 individually into the channel through an access opening on the outer surface of the retaining ring and progressively sliding them into the channel. A closure, which may be incorporated as a retaining clip, is used to close the access opening, to optionally fill at least part of the remaining space within the channel not occupied by retaining segments, and to secure the retaining segments within the channel. Several example configurations are disclosed for the retaining segments, the channel, the closure, and detailing of other example features and benefits.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a wellbore tool having a compatible sealing element 10 coupled to a tubular mandrel 12 by a pair of retaining rings 40 according to one aspect of this disclosure. The tool 10 is represented as an example as a wellbore sealing assembly 10 in which a sealing element 14 is fixed to the mandrel 12. The sealing element 14 is deployable by inflating or otherwise expanding the sealing element 14 outwards sealing against an inner surface of a generally circular wellbore 20. The sealing element 14 is fixed to the mandrel 12 at opposite ends 15, 16 by the retaining rings 40, which may be substantially identical.The retaining rings 40 secure the ends 15, 16 of the sealing element 14 with sufficient integrity to resist axial forces and movement of the ends 15, 16, such as when the wellbore seal assembly 10 is maneuvered into the wellbore 20 and during expansion of the sealing element 14 against the wellbore 20.

[0016] As further discussed below, a ring groove extending circumferentially along an inner surface of each retaining ring 40 and a mandrel groove extending circumferentially along an outer surface of the mandrel 12 cooperatively define a Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, p. 15 / 49 5 / 19 internal channel extending circumferentially. A plurality of retaining segments may be arranged circumferentially within the retaining ring channel 40 through an access opening 44. The retaining segments prevent axial movement of the retaining rings 40 in the mandrel 12 to axially secure the retaining rings 40 to the mandrel 12. It should be recognized that the wellbore seal assembly 10 of FIG. 1 is only one example of how retaining rings 40 and their alternative configurations may be used to axially secure a sealing member or other component around a mandrel and that other types of seals and even other non-sealing components may be secured to a mandrel by any number of retaining rings.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the chuck 12 supported in an optional chuck holder 70 to facilitate manual assembly of wellbore seal assembly components including the retaining ring 40 for the chuck 12 by a technician or other user. The chuck holder 70 includes support members (e.g., frames) 72 to support the chuck 12 at opposite ends of the chuck 12. The chuck 12 can be lifted and seated in the holder 70 with a lifting tool, such as a crane (not shown). The frames may include rollers 74 so that the chuck can be rotated freely around its axis. The retaining ring 40 is positioned around the chuck 12 with the access opening 44 generally facing upwards at a convenient height and position for manually inserting the retaining segments 50. A plurality of the 50 retention segments can be inserted, one at a time, through access opening 44.An insertion and / or positioning tool 75 can be used to assist with mounting the retaining ring 40 onto the chuck 12. An example of an insertion or positioning tool 75 might have a straight, narrow section to help seat each retaining segment. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 16 / 49 6 / 19 inside the retaining ring 40. Tool 75 can also be used to progressively slide each retaining segment 50 along the channel to make room for the next retaining segment 50 to be inserted. Alternatively, the tool can be bent to fit into the access opening 44 and facilitate the sliding of the retaining segments 50 along the channel 42. In other cases, a conventional tool such as a small screwdriver may be suitable to push the retaining segments circumferentially during installation.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a side view of one of the retaining rings 40 of FIG. 1 in a retaining ring 40 mounting process on the mandrel 12. The retaining ring 40 and the mandrel 12 are both circular in this example. The retaining ring 40 has been positioned on the mandrel 12, with an inner surface 40S on an inner diameter (OD) of the retaining ring 40 positioned closely around and facing an outer surface 12S on an outer diameter (OD) of the mandrel 12. A circumferential channel 42 is defined between the retaining ring 40 and the mandrel 12 by a respective ring groove and mandrel groove discussed below. Channel 42 in this example is a continuous channel that extends circumferentially 360 degrees along a perimeter (circumference) of retaining ring 40. Alternative configurations may include a channel that extends only partially (less than 360 degrees) along the circumference.Access opening 44 is provided on the outer surface 12S of the retaining ring 40 into the ring groove, for insertion of each retaining segment 50 into the channel 42. Access opening 44 is sized to individually receive each retaining segment 50. Access opening 44 in this example is slightly longer than a length L of the retaining segment 50 being inserted, to receive one retaining segment 50 at a time through access opening 44 into channel 42. Each segment. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 17 / 49 7 / 19 retention 50 can be inserted directly downwards in the direction of an insertion arrow 45 to be seated in channel 42.

[0019] The retaining segments 50 can be inserted manually, such as by dropping each one directly into the channel 42, using an insertion or positioning tool if necessary. After inserting a particular retaining segment 50, the retaining ring 40 and / or the mandrel 12 can be manipulated, such as by rotating them relative to each other, to facilitate the movement of the inserted retaining segments 50 along the channel 42, so that additional retaining segments 50 can be inserted. The retaining segments 50 can be inserted individually, one by one, until the desired number of retaining segments 50 has been inserted, so as to fill or partially fill the channel 42. A tool can be used as needed (e.g., tool 75 of FIG. 2) to help position the retaining segments 50.

[0020] Each retaining segment 50 shown in FIG. 2 is substantially identical in size and shape in this embodiment, although embodiments may be constructed with different sizes and shapes of retaining segments. The retaining segments 50 as seated within the channel 42 extend radially within the ring groove and mandrel groove that cooperatively define the channel 42, to create interference in the axial movement of the retaining ring 40 relative to the mandrel 12. The plurality of retaining segments 50 can collectively support the external loading stress on the retaining ring 40 and any structure (e.g., a component of a wellbore seal assembly) secured by the retaining ring 40 to the mandrel 12. This amount of retention (e.g., amount of axial load supported) may be dependent, for example, on the shear strength and other material properties of the retaining segments 50, of Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 18 / 49 8 / 19 geometry of the retaining segments 50, the geometry of the channel and the tolerances and clearance between the retaining segments 50 and the channel 42.

[0021] Channel 42 does not need to be filled end to end with retaining segments 50 to secure the retaining ring 40. For example, one or more embodiments may secure the retaining ring collectively spanning a total of only 180 degrees of a 360-degree channel. However, each retaining segment 50 added to channel 42 will generally contribute an incremental amount of strength or retention stability. Thus, increasing the number of retaining segments 50 for channel 42 up to as much as the full 360 degrees of channel 42 may also contribute to the lateral or radial stability of the retaining ring 40 relative to mandrel 12 by more completely filling a volume of channel 42.Thus, in some embodiments, sufficient retention segments 50 may be provided to substantially fill channel 42 or leave sufficient space for a latch on the access opening 44 and / or an optional spring or other element occupying some portion of channel 42 along with the retention segments 50.

[0022] Although not strictly necessary in all embodiments, filling the 42 channel with sufficient retention segments to collectively span a combined 360 degrees of the channel generally maximizes retention for a given channel and segment configuration. In some embodiments, it is sufficient for the segments to run loosely in the channel and / or fill less than 360 degrees of the 42 channel because the tool would experience uniform load (pressure) on all segments simultaneously. Thus, in some embodiments, sufficient retention segments will be inserted to span at least half the circumference of the channel, i.e., nominally at least 180 degrees of the channel. This may have some advantages in certain applications where less than 360 degrees of retention are Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 19 / 49 9 / 19 sufficient to axially fix the parts, in order to reduce the part count and costs, weight or rotational friction.

[0023] The retaining ring 40 can also be rotationally secured relative to the chuck 12 using a key or discontinuity 47 in the chuck or in the retaining ring in the channel 42 to limit the movement of the retaining segments around the chuck 12. Only one example of the location of such a key or discontinuity 47 is shown in the figure, which interferes with the relative rotation between the chuck 12 and the retaining ring 40. Although a key or discontinuity 47 is shown by way of example, additional keys or discontinuities may be circumferentially spaced around the retaining ring 40. A key may be a piece of material added inside the channel 42, for example. The key may be formed in the retaining ring by any suitable technique, including, but not limited to, welding or press-fitting the key into the chuck groove.Alternatively, a discontinuity could be formed simply by not machining the chuck groove completely around the chuck's OD 14, but leaving at least a small uncut segment. This can result in the 42 channel extending less than 360 degrees around the circumference of the 12 chuck.

[0024] Each retaining segment 50 can be pre-formed during manufacturing to conform to the channel profile 42. The retaining segments can be formed in any of a variety of ways. Several manufacturing processes can be used to produce the segments based on the material, cross-section, and tolerance requirements of the retaining segments 50. Such manufacturing processes include, for example, spring forming, water jet / plasma, computer numerically controlled machining (CNC), additive manufacturing, casting, electrical discharge machining (EDM), as well as others. Furthermore, the retaining segments can be treated Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 20 / 49 10 / 19 thermally to obtain specific material properties, such as yield strength and elongation.

[0025] The retaining segments 50 and the channel 42 can also be formed with any of a variety of sizes and cross-sectional shapes. Certain cross-sectional shapes may have certain benefits or characteristics, such as strength, stiffness, or ease of assembly. Certain cross-sectional shapes (e.g., an I-beam) may include one or more flanges that are slidingly captured within a portion of the ring groove and / or mandrel groove, allowing the retaining segments 50 to assume radial load in addition to shear load. Examples of I-beam, stepped, and circular cross-sectional shapes are illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view (taken along a plane through the axis of the chuck 18) of the retaining ring 40 fixed to the chuck 12 by a retaining segment 150 having a round cross-sectional shape. The retaining ring 40 defines a circumferential ring groove 41 around an inner surface 43 of the retaining ring 40. At the same axial location, the chuck 12 has a circumferential chuck groove 21 defined on an outer surface 23, for example, cut into the outer diameter (CD) of the chuck 12. The ring groove 41 and the chuck groove 21 cooperatively define the channel 42 in which each retaining segment 151 is positioned. The cross-sections of ring groove 41 and mandrel groove 21, by way of example and not limitation, are each approximately the same dimensions, as if they formed two halves of a circle around the cross-section of the circular retaining segment.The retaining segment 151 has a generally round cross-section that conforms to what in this example is a generally circular cross-section of channel 42. In one or more embodiments, the size of the cross-sections of the segments of... Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 21 / 49 11 / 19 retaining segment 151 and channel 42 can be selected so that the retaining segment 151 extends radially into the groove of the ring 41 and the groove of the mandrel 21. The retaining segments 151 can at least extend radially above the inner surface 43 of the retaining ring 40 and below the outer surface 23 of the mandrel, sufficient to axially secure the retaining ring 40 in the mandrel 12 under expected loading conditions.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view (taken along a plane through the axis of the mandrel 18) of an alternative configuration of a retaining ring 140 fixed to the mandrel 12 by a retaining segment 250 having a stepped cross-sectional shape. A circumferential ring groove 141 and a circumferential mandrel groove 121 define a corresponding step-shaped channel 142 and are each substantially rectangular in cross-section. The cross-sectional dimensions of the ring groove 141 and the mandrel groove 121 differ. For example, a width A of the mandrel groove cross-section is greater than a width B of the ring groove cross-section.The respective heights C and D of the ring groove and the cross-sections of the mandrel groove may also differ, as due to expected loading conditions, strength of materials used, limitations on a mandrel wall thickness 12 in which to define a groove profile, and so on.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view (taken along a plane through the axis of the mandrel 18) of yet another alternative configuration of a retaining ring 240 fixed to the mandrel 12 by a retaining segment 350 having an I-beam cross-sectional shape, disposed in an I-beam channel 242. The I-beam channel is defined by a circumferential ring groove 241 and a mandrel groove. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 22 / 49 12 / 19 circumferential 221 are substantially rectangular in cross-section. The I-beam-shaped retaining segment 350 provides additional radial stability for securing the retaining ring 240 in a radial direction indicated by R. For example, the I-beam-shaped cross-section includes a flange 354, 356 at each end, which are each captured in corresponding portions 244, 246 of the ring groove and mandrel groove.

[0029] Those skilled in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate, without further illustration, that a multitude of other cross-sectional forms are possible beyond these specific examples. Having discussed the different retaining segment and possible channel geometry, the discussion returns to the assembly using retaining ring 40 and retaining segment 50 of FIG. 3.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a side view of the retaining ring of FIG. 3 once channel 42 has been filled with as many retaining segments 50 as will fit into channel 42 with sufficient space for a closure 60. The closure is used to close the access opening 44 after all the retaining segments 50 have been inserted into channel 42. The closure 60 may also extend radially into the channel to fill any remaining circumferential space between the retaining segments 50 at either end of the closure 60. The closure 60 in this embodiment is more particularly configured as a retaining clip, which may snap into place to prevent loss or inadvertent removal of the retaining segments 50. The closure 60 fits into channel 42 through the access opening 44 and may lock releasably in place by engaging an internal feature of the retaining ring 40.The 50 retaining segments together with the 60 closure now cover the entire perimeter (circumference) of channel 42, contiguous from end to end.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a side view of another retaining ring configuration employing a 17 0 compression spring and Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 23 / 49 13 / 19 interlocking end segments 90 at each end of a 160 closure. As in the examples above, the retaining ring relies on interference between retaining segments in a channel defined by a ring groove and mandrel groove to axially secure the retaining ring 40 in the mandrel. The retaining segments 50 still fill most of channel 42, but leave sufficient space in channel 42 for spring 170 and fastener 160. Spring 170 provides circumferential compression between any moving members within channel 42, including between adjacent retaining segments 50 and between interlocking end segments 90 and fastener 160. A tool (e.g., tool 75 of FIG. 2) can be shaped to fit within the access opening 44 during assembly to push the end retaining segment 60 circumferentially slightly outward, compressing spring 170 and creating sufficient space to insert fastener 160.

[0032] The 90 end segments, which may be referred to as interlocking end segments, include features that interlock with the fastener 60 and remain interlocked while in compressive engagement from the compression provided by the spring 170. In this embodiment, a 90 end segment is provided on each side of the fastener 160, which can function as other retaining segments 50 in terms of interference with the axial movement of the retaining ring. The 90 end segments also include an end feature 91 that overlaps an end feature 161 of the fastener 160. During assembly, after the retaining segments 50 and the 90 end segments have been inserted into the channel, the interlocking end segments can be pushed outward against the compressive force provided by the spring 170 to provide sufficient space in the access opening 44 to insert the fastener 160.In particular, the 90-degree end segments can be spread out. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 24 / 49 14 / 19 far enough to create clearance between the overlapping end features 91, 161 to insert the fastener 160 into the channel 42. Then, the spring 170 can propel the circumferentially interlocking end segments within the channel 42 back into contact with the fastener 160 and the overlapping end features 91, 161. The overlapping end features 91, 161 on both sides prevent or resist inadvertent removal of the fastener 160 and loss of retaining segments 50.

[0033] Any closure suitable for closing an access opening is also within the scope of this disclosure. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative closure configuration comprising a V-shaped closure style 60, retaining clip (i.e., V-clip), as viewed from inside the retaining ring 40 looking out of the access opening 44. The V-shape allows the closure 60 to be flexed or otherwise deformed inward to fit into the access opening in an arrow insertion direction 45 to ensure that the segments remain within the channel. The closure 60 then returns outward and engages an internal retaining surface 46 within the retaining ring 40 to prevent removal.

[0034] Therefore, this disclosure provides various devices, methods and tools for attaching a component, such as a sealing element, to a tubular chuck of a downhole tool. These may include any of the various features disclosed in this document, including one or more of the following statements.

[0035] Declaration 1. An apparatus comprising: a mandrel defining a mandrel groove extending circumferentially along an outer surface of the mandrel; a retaining ring defining a ring groove extending circumferentially along an inner surface of the retaining ring and an access opening to the groove. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, p. 25 / 49 15 / 19 of a ring extending from an outer surface of the retaining ring, the retaining ring is positionable around the mandrel to cooperatively define a channel with the ring groove and the mandrel groove; and a plurality of retaining segments are insertable through the access opening in the channel to axially secure the retaining ring to the mandrel.

[0036] Declaration 2. The apparatus of Declaration 1, further comprising a spring that can be inserted through the access opening in the channel to place the plurality of retention segments in circumferential compression within the channel.

[0037] Declaration 3. The apparatus of Declaration 1 or 2, further comprising: a fastening fastener that is removable to the retaining ring for closing the access opening and securing the plurality of retaining segments in the channel.

[0038] Declaration 4. The device of any of Declarations 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of retention segments comprises two end segments disposed in the channel on opposite sides of the access opening and the closure extends radially into the channel between the two end segments.

[0039] Declaration 5. The apparatus of Declaration 4, in which at least one of the end segments has an interlocking end that interlocks with the closure that extends radially into the channel.

[0040] Declaration 6. The apparatus of Declaration 5, in which the end of at least one of the end segments overlaps circumferentially with a portion of the clasp.

[0041] Declaration 7. The apparatus of any of Declarations 1 to 6, further comprising a key formed along one or both of the ring groove and the mandrel groove to limit the circumferential movement of the retaining segments along the channel. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, p. 26 / 49 16 / 19

[0042] Declaration 8. The device of any of Declarations 1 to 7, in which the plurality of retention segments spans at least 180 degrees of the canal.

[0043] Declaration 9. The apparatus of any of Declarations 1 to 8, wherein one or more of the retaining segments comprise a stepped cross-section including a radially inner portion and a radially outer portion, the radially outer portion having a width greater than the width of the radially inner portion.

[0044] Statement 10. The apparatus of any of Statements 1 to 9, wherein one or more of the retaining segments have a beam-shaped cross-section including one or both of a flanged end that is slidably captured within the ring groove and a flanged end that is slidably captured within the mandrel groove when inserted into the channel.

[0045] Declaration 11. The apparatus of any of Declarations 1 to 10, further comprising: a sealing member fixed to the chuck by the retaining ring and configured to extend out of the chuck.

[0046] Declaration 12. A downhole tool comprising: a mandrel defining a mandrel groove extending circumferentially along an outer surface of the mandrel; a retaining ring defining a ring groove extending circumferentially along an inner surface of the retaining ring and an access opening to the ring groove from an outer surface of the retaining ring, the retaining ring being positionable around the mandrel to cooperatively define a channel with the ring groove and the mandrel groove; a plurality of retaining segments insertable through the access opening in the channel to axially secure the retaining ring to the mandrel; a spring insertable through the access opening in the channel to position the plurality Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 27 / 49 17 / 19 of the retention segments are circumferentially compressed within the channel; and a sealing member is fixed to the mandrel by the retaining ring and configured to implant externally from the mandrel.

[0047] Declaration 13. The downhole tool of Declaration 12 further comprising: a fastenable closure of a removable form to the retaining ring for closing the access opening and securing the plurality of retaining segments in the channel; wherein the plurality of retaining segments comprises two end segments disposed in the channel on opposite sides of the access opening and the closure extends radially into the channel between the two end segments; and wherein each end segment has an interlocking end that interlocks with the closure by circumferential overlap with a portion of the closure when in compressive engagement of the compression spring.

[0048] Declaration 14. A method for attaching a component to a well tool, comprising: positioning a retaining ring in a well tool mandrel; and inserting a plurality of retaining segments through an access opening in a retaining ring and into a channel defined between a ring groove in the retaining ring and a mandrel groove in the mandrel.

[0049] Declaration 15. The method of Declaration 14, further comprising: attaching a lock to the retaining ring to close the access opening after inserting the plurality of retaining segments into the channel.

[0050] Declaration 16. The method of Declaration 14 or 15, further comprising inserting a compression spring through the access opening in the channel to place the plurality of retaining segments in circumferential compression within the channel.

[0051] Declaration 17. The method of any of Declarations 14 to 16, also including the completion of by Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 28 / 49 18 / 19 minus 180 degrees of the canal with a plurality of retention segments.

[0052] Statement 18. The method of any of Statements 14 to 17, further comprising attaching a sealing member to the chuck with the retaining ring.

[0053] Declaration 19. The method of Declaration 18, further comprising: further securing the sealing member to the mandrel by positioning a second retaining ring around the mandrel and inserting a second plurality of retaining segments through an access opening in the second retaining ring and into a channel defined between a ring groove in the second retaining ring and another mandrel groove in the mandrel.

[0054] Statement 20. The method of any of Statements 14 to 19, wherein each retaining segment comprises a circular cross-section, a stepped cross-section or a beam-shaped cross-section.

[0055] For the sake of brevity, only certain ranges are explicitly disclosed in this document. However, ranges of any lower limit may be combined with any upper limit to cite a range not explicitly cited, just as ranges of any lower limit may be combined with any other lower limit to cite a range not explicitly cited, in the same way, ranges of any upper limit may be combined with any other upper limit to cite a range not explicitly cited. Additionally, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any range included falling within the range are specifically disclosed.In particular, every range of values ​​(of the form, from approximately aa to approximately b, or, equivalently, from approximately aab, or, equivalently, from approximately ab) described in this document shall be understood to represent each number and range. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, p. 29 / 49 19 / 19 is encompassed within the broader range of values, even if not explicitly cited. Thus, each individual point or value can serve as its own lower or upper limit combined with any other individual point or value, or any other lower or upper limit, to cite a range not explicitly cited.

[0056] Therefore, the embodiments presented in this document are well adapted to achieve the purposes and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent to them. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the present embodiments may be modified and practiced in different, yet equivalent, ways by those skilled in the art, benefiting from the teachings of this document. Although individual embodiments are discussed, all combinations of each embodiment are contemplated and covered by the disclosure. Furthermore, no limitation is intended for the construction or design details shown in this document, except as described in the following claims. Also, the terms in the claims have their common simple meaning unless explicitly and clearly defined otherwise by the patent holder.Therefore, it is evident that the particular illustrative arrangements disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, pp. 30 / 49

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. Apparatus characterized in that it comprises: a mandrel (12) defining a mandrel groove (12, 121, 221) extending circumferentially along an outer surface (12S, 23) of the mandrel (12); a retaining ring (40, 140, 240) defining a ring groove (41, 141, 241) extending circumferentially along an inner surface (40S, 43) of the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) and an access opening (44) to the ring groove (41, 141, 241) from an outer surface of the retaining ring (40, 140, 240), the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) being positionable around the mandrel (12) to cooperatively define a channel (42, 142, 242) with the ring groove (41, 141, 241) and the mandrel groove (12, 121, 221);a plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) insertable through the access opening (44) in the channel (42, 142, 242) to axially fix the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) to the mandrel (12), wherein the plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) comprises two end segments (90) disposed in the channel (42, 142, 242) on opposite sides of the access opening (44); and a spring (170) insertable through the access opening (44) in the channel (42, 142, 242) to place the plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) in circumferential compression within the channel (42, 142, 242); wherein each end segment (90) has an interlocking end that interlocks with the fastener (60, 160) by circumferential overlap with a portion of the fastener (60, 160) when in compressive engagement of the compression spring (170).

2. Apparatus, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: the fastener (60, 160) removablely attachable to the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) for closing the access opening (44) and Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 31 / 49 2 / 4 attaching the plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) in the channel (42, 142, 242).

3. Apparatus, according to claim 2, characterized in that the closure (60, 160) extends radially into the channel (42, 142, 242) between the two end segments (90).

4. Apparatus, according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of retention segments (50, 151, 250, 350) spans at least 180 degrees of the channel (42, 142, 242).

5. Apparatus, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a sealing member (14) fixed to the mandrel (12) by the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) and configured to extend out of the mandrel (12).

6. Apparatus characterized in that it comprises: a mandrel (12) defining a mandrel groove (12, 121, 221) extending circumferentially along an outer surface (12S, 23) of the mandrel (12); a retaining ring (40, 140, 240) defining a ring groove (41, 141, 241) extending circumferentially along an inner surface (40S, 43) of the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) and an access opening (44) to the ring groove (41, 141, 241) from an outer surface of the retaining ring (40, 140, 240), the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) being positionable around the mandrel (12) to cooperatively define a channel (42, 142, 242) with the ring groove (41, 141, 241) and the mandrel groove (12, 121, 221); and a plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) insertable through the access opening (44) in the channel (42, 142, 242) to axially fix the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) to the mandrel (12), wherein one or more of the retaining segments (50,151, 250, 350) comprise a stepped cross-section Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page. 32 / 49 3 / 4 including a radially inner portion and a radially outer portion, the radially outer portion having a width greater than the width of the radially inner portion, wherein the plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) comprises two end segments (90) disposed in the channel (42, 142, 242) on opposite sides of the access opening (44), and a closure extends radially into the channel (42, 142, 242) between the two end segments (90), and wherein each end segment (90) has an interlocking end that interlocks with the latch (60, 160) by circumferential overlap with a portion of the latch (60, 160) when in compressive engagement of the compression spring (170).

7. Apparatus characterized in that it comprises: a mandrel (12) defining a mandrel groove (12, 121, 221) extending circumferentially along an outer surface (12S, 23) of the mandrel (12); a retaining ring (40, 140, 240) defining a ring groove (41, 141, 241) extending circumferentially along an inner surface (40S, 43) of the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) and an access opening (44) to the ring groove (41, 141, 241) from an outer surface of the retaining ring (40, 140, 240), the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) being positionable around the mandrel (12) to cooperatively define a channel (42, 142, 242) with the ring groove (41, 141, 241) and the mandrel groove (12, 121, 221); and a plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) insertable through the access opening (44) in the channel (42, 142, 242) to axially fix the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) to the mandrel (12), wherein one or more of the retaining segments (50,151, 250, 350) have a beam-shaped cross-section (242) including one or both of a flanged end that is slidably captured within the ring groove (41, 141, 241) and a flanged end that is slidably captured Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page. 33 / 49 4 / 4 within the groove of the mandrel (12, 121, 221) when inserted into the channel (42, 142, 242), wherein the plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) comprises two end segments (90) disposed in the channel (42, 142, 242) on opposite sides of the access opening (44), wherein each end segment has an interlocking end that interlocks with a latch (60, 160) by circumferential overlap with a portion of the latch (60, 160) when in compressive engagement of the compression spring (170).

8. Method of attaching a component to a well tool characterized in that it comprises: positioning a retaining ring (40, 140, 240) in a mandrel (12) of the well tool; and insert a plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) through an access opening (44) in the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) and into a channel (42, 142, 242) defined between a ring groove (41, 141, 241) in the retaining ring (40, 140, 240) and a mandrel groove (12, 121, 221) in the mandrel (12), wherein the plurality of retaining segments (50, 151, 250, 350) comprises two end segments (90) disposed in the channel (42, 142, 242) on opposite sides of the access opening (44), wherein each end segment has an interlocking end that interlocks with a latch (60, 160) by circumferential overlap with a portion of the closure (60, 160) when in compressive engagement of the compression spring (170). Petition 870260054645, dated 05 / 06 / 2026, page 34 / 49

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