SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACTUATING A LOCKING ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A locking assembly includes a first motor gear configured to rotate in a first direction. The locking assembly also includes a second motor gear configured to rotate in a second direction. The locking assembly also includes a first locking gear configured to rotate in the first direction in response to the first motor gear rotating in the first direction. The locking assembly also includes a second locking gear configured to rotate in the second direction in response to the second motor gear rotating in the second direction.The locking assembly also includes a locking mechanism configured to be rotated in the first direction in response to the first locking gear rotating in the first direction, and to be rotated in the second direction in response to the second locking gear rotating in the second direction. Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: SYSTEM AND METHOD ACTIVATION OF A LOCKING MECHANISM

[0001] Cross-reference to related requests

[0002] This document is based on and claims priority from U.S. patent application No. 17 / 154187, filed on January 21, 2021, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. State of the art

[0003] A blowout preventer (BOP) stack is installed on a wellhead to seal and control a drill hole during drilling operations. A drill string can be suspended from a platform through the BOP stack in the drill hole. During drilling operations, drilling fluid is routed through the drill string and upwards through an annular space between the drill string and casing lining the drill hole. In the event of a rapid invasion of formation fluid into the annular space, commonly referred to as a "kick," a movable component inside the BOP stack can be actuated to seal the annular space and control the fluid pressure in the drill hole, thereby protecting the well equipment above the BOP stack.

[0004] Summary

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are described in more detail below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor to be used as an aid to limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] The invention relates to a system comprising a motor having a motor shaft configured to rotate in a first direction in response to a first motor pressure, and to rotate in a second direction in response to a second motor pressure. The first and second directions are opposite to each other, and the first and second motor pressures are within 1 MPa of each other. The system also comprises an interlocking assembly. The interlocking assembly includes a smaller motor gear configured to rotate in the first direction in response to the motor shaft rotating in the first direction. The interlocking assembly also includes a larger motor gear configured to rotate in the second direction in response to the motor shaft rotating in the second direction.The locking assembly also includes a larger locking gear configured to be rotated in the first direction in response to the smaller motor gear rotating in the . The locking assembly also includes a smaller locking gear configured to rotate in the second direction in response to the larger motor gear rotating in the second direction. The locking assembly also includes a first belt wound at least partially around the smaller motor gear and the larger locking gear. This first belt is configured to transmit torque from the smaller motor gear to the larger locking gear. The locking assembly also includes a second belt wound at least partially around the larger motor gear and the smaller locking gear. This second belt is configured to transmit torque from the larger motor gear to the smaller locking gear.The locking assembly also includes a locking mechanism configured to rotate in the first direction in response to the larger locking gear rotating in the first direction, causing the locking mechanism to move in a first axial direction and actuate from an unlocked to a locked configuration. The locking mechanism is configured to rotate in the second direction in response to the smaller locking gear rotating in the second direction, causing the locking mechanism to move in a second axial direction and actuate from a locked to an unlocked configuration. The system also includes a blowout preventer (BOP) configured to actuate between an open and a closed configuration.The locking mechanism allows the BOP to operate between the open and closed configurations when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked configuration. The locking mechanism prevents the BOP from operating between the open and closed configurations when the locking mechanism is in the locked configuration.

[0007] The invention also relates to a method for operating a blowout preventer (BOP). The method includes actuation of the BOP from an open configuration to a closed configuration. The method also includes actuation of a locking assembly from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration when the BOP is in the closed configuration. Actuation of the locking assembly from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration involves driving the rotation of a motor shaft in a first direction, which causes the rotation of a first motor gear in the first direction, which causes the rotation of a first locking gear in the first direction, which causes the rotation of a locking mechanism in the first direction, which causes the movement of the mechanism The locking mechanism operates in a first axial direction, actuating the locking assembly from the unlocked to the locked configuration. The locking assembly prevents the BOP from operating between the open and closed configurations when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.

[0008] Summary description of the drawings

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and form part of this description, illustrate embodiments of the present teachings and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present teachings. In the figures:

[0010] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a marine system which has a blowout preventer (BOP) and a remote locking system, according to one embodiment.

[0011] [Fig.2] Fig.2 illustrates a cross-sectional top view of a part of the BOP and the remote locking system of the [Fig.1], according to one embodiment.

[0012] [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a hood and an assembly of remote locking that may be part of the remote locking system of [Fig. 1], according to one embodiment. The remote locking assembly is in an unlocked position.

[0013] [Fig.4] Fig.4 illustrates a perspective view of the hood and the assembly of remote locking of [Fig.3], according to one embodiment. The remote locking assembly is in a locked position.

[0014] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] illustrates a perspective view of another hood and an assembly remote locking which may be part of the remote locking system of [Fig.1], according to one embodiment.

[0015] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the hood and the assembly of remote locking of the [Fig.5], according to one embodiment.

[0016] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] illustrates a top view of the hood and locking assembly at a distance from [Fig.5], according to one embodiment.

[0017] [Fig.8] Fig.8 illustrates an end view of the hood and locking assembly. distance from [Fig.5], according to one embodiment.

[0018] [Fig.9] Fig.9 illustrates a schematic side view of a gear assembly of the remote locking assembly, according to one embodiment.

[0019] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] illustrates a schematic top view of the gear assembly shown in [Fig. 9], according to one embodiment.

[0020] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] illustrates a flowchart of a BOP operating process, according to one embodiment. Detailed description

[0021] Detailed reference will now be made to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and figures. In the detailed description below, numerous specific details are given to enable a thorough understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

[0022] It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc., may be used here to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first object or step could be called a second object or step, and similarly, a second object or step could be called a first object or step, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The first object or step and the second object or step are both objects or steps, respectively, but they should not be considered the same object or step.

[0023] The terminology used in this description is intended to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used in this description and the attached claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and encompasses all possible combinations of one or more of the listed associated elements.It is further understood that the terms "includes," "comprising," "comprises," and / or "comprising," when used in this description, indicate the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components mentioned, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, as used here, the term "if" may be interpreted as meaning "when," "during," "in response to determination," or "in response to detection," depending on the context.

[0024] This disclosure generally relates to blowout preventers (BOPs). In particular, this disclosure generally relates to a remote locking system for a BOP and / or a method for remotely locking a locking mechanism (e.g., a locking screw) for the BOP. The remote locking system can be configured to be actuated between a The system consists of two configurations: a first configuration (e.g., unlocked) and a second configuration (e.g., locked). In the unlocked configuration, the remote locking system allows the BOP cylinders to move. In the locked configuration, the remote locking system allows the BOP cylinders to move.

[0025] Although some embodiments described here relate to an offshore system (e.g., a subsea system), it should be understood that the BOP and the remote locking system can be used in an onshore system (e.g., a land-based system). Furthermore, while some embodiments disclosed here relate to a drilling system that can be used to perform drilling operations, it should be noted that the BOP and the remote locking system can be adapted for use in any of a variety of settings and during any of a variety of operations.For example, the BOP and remote locking system can be used in a production system and / or in a pressure control equipment (PCE) stack positioned vertically above a wellhead during various intervention operations (e.g., inspection or service operations), such as wireline operations in which a cable-supported tool is lowered through the PCE stack to allow inspection and / or maintenance of a well. In such cases, the BOP can be adjusted from an open to a closed configuration (e.g., to seal around the cable extending through the PCE stack) to isolate the environment, as well as other surface equipment, from the pressurized fluid inside the well.In this disclosure, a conduit may be any of a variety of tubular or cylindrical structures, such as a rod train, cable, Streamline™, smooth cable, coiled tube, or other coilable rod.

[0026] Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an offshore system 10 (for example, an offshore drilling system), according to one embodiment. The offshore system 10 and its components can be described with reference to a vertical axis or direction 2, an axial axis or direction 4, a lateral axis or direction 6, and a circumferential axis or direction 8. The offshore system 10 includes a vessel or platform 12 on the sea surface 14, and a wellhead 16 positioned on the seabed 18. The offshore system 10 also includes a BOP pile 20 positioned above the wellhead 16, and a riser 22 extending between the BOP pile 20 and the vessel or platform 12. Downhole operations can be carried out via a conduit 24 extending from the vessel or platform 12, through the riser 22, through the BOP pile 20, through the wellhead 16, and into a wellbore. 26.

[0027] The BOP stack 20 can comprise one or more BOPs (four are shown: 28) stacked along the vertical axis 2 relative to each other. As described further in As detailed below, one or more of the BOP 28s may have opposing cylinders configured to move along the axial axis 4 towards and away from each other to adjust the BOP 28 between a first configuration (e.g., open) and a second configuration (e.g., closed). In the open configuration, the opposing cylinders can be retracted (e.g., withdrawn) from a central bore of the BOP 28, thus allowing fluid flow through the central bore. In the closed configuration, the opposing cylinders can be extended into (e.g., positioned within) the central bore of the BOP 28, thus blocking fluid flow through the central bore.

[0028] The BOP stack 20 may include any of a variety of different types of BOP 28 (for example, having shear cylinders, blind cylinders, blind shear cylinders, tubular cylinders). For example, in one embodiment, the BOP stack 20 may include one or more BOP 28 having opposing shear cylinders or blades configured to sever the conduit 24 to block fluid flow through the central bore. In another embodiment, the BOP stack 20 may include one or more BOP 28 having opposing tubular cylinders configured to engage the conduit 24 to block fluid flow through the central bore (for example, through an annular space around the conduit 24).

[0029] As illustrated, the BOP stack 20 may include one or more remote locking assemblies 30. For example, a remote locking assembly 30 may be positioned at each end (e.g., along the axial axis 4) of the BOP 28. The remote locking assembly 30 may be part of a remote locking system 32 that operates to adjust the components of the remote locking assembly 30 between a first configuration (e.g., unlocked) and a second configuration (e.g., locked). In the unlocked configuration, the remote locking assembly 30 allows the movement of the cylinders of the BOP 28. In the locked configuration, the remote locking assembly 30 prevents the movement of the cylinders of the BOP 28.

[0030] The remote locking assembly 30 can be in the locked configuration to hold the BOP 28 in the open configuration, the closed configuration, and / or the position between these. However, the remote locking assembly 30 can be actuated in the unlocked configuration to allow the BOP 28 cylinders to move relative to the center bore between the open and closed configurations. For example, in response to an indication of increased pressure inside the wellbore 26 or other indication (e.g., operator input or test cycle) that the BOP 28 cylinders should be moved from the open configuration to the closed configuration, the BOP 28 cylinders can be moved from the open configuration to the closed configuration, and the remote locking system 32 can operate to actuate the remote locking assembly 30 from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration to hold the BOP cylinders in the closed configuration, thus facilitating the holding of a seal through the BOP center bore 28.

[0031] The remote locking system 32 may include a control device 34 (for example, an electronic control device) having a processor 36 and a memory device 38. In some embodiments, the processor 36 may receive and process signals from a sensor that monitors the pressure inside the borehole 26 to determine that the BOP 28 should be set from the open to the closed configuration (or vice versa). In some embodiments, the processor 36 may receive other signals (for example, an operator input) indicating that the BOP 28 should be set from the open to the closed configuration (or vice versa). Then, the processor 36 may provide control signals, for example, to an actuator assembly to set the cylinders so that they move towards each other and into the center bore to reach the closed configuration.The processor 36 can also provide control signals, such as to one or more motors (e.g., hydraulic motors, pneumatic motors, electric motors) to one or more remote locking assemblies 30 to drive the setting of one or more locking mechanisms (e.g., locking screws) to lock the cylinders in the closed configuration.

[0032] The control device 34 may be part of, or include, a distributed control device or control system with one or more electronic control devices communicating with each other to perform the various techniques described herein. For example, the control device 34 may be part of a distributed control system with one control device (not shown) on the vessel or platform 12 and another control device 34 on the BOP 28 and / or on the remote locking assembly 30. The processor 36 may also include one or more processors configured to run software, such as signal processing software and / or software for controlling other components associated with the BOP 28 and / or the remote locking system 32.

[0033] The memory device 38 described herein may comprise one or more memory devices (for example, volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM)) that can store a variety of information and can be used for various purposes. For example, the memory device 38 may store instructions executable by the processor (for example, firmware or software) that the processor 36 is to execute, such as instructions for processing signals and / or controlling other components associated with the BOP 28 and / or the remote locking system 32. The control device 34 may include various other components, such as a communication device 40 which is capable of communicating data or other information to various other devices via a wired and / or wireless connection.

[0034] The remote locking system 32 having the control device 34 allows one or more remote locking assemblies 30 to be locked efficiently and remotely via electronic control (for example, without a human operator, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) or an autonomous vehicle (AUV) physically contacting and manipulating the BOP 28 or the remote locking assemblies 30). The remote locking system 32 here also allows a smooth and / or continuous application of torque to a locking mechanism 70 (discussed below) during an unlocking operation and a locking operation, as opposed to some types of manual operation which may not allow a smooth and / or continuous application of torque.Furthermore, the remote locking system 32 can provide a visual indicator (e.g., visible to a human operator, an ROV, or an AUV) of a configuration of one or more remote locking assemblies 30, for example, due to the respective positions of each of the one or more locking assemblies 30 relative to the components of the BOP 28 (e.g., because visible parts of the one or more locking assemblies 30 move relative to the components of the BOP 28 during the unlocking and locking operations). The remote locking system 32 can remain coupled to the BOP 28 during operations (e.g., drilling operations) and / or can be a standalone component supported by the BOP 28 (e.g., not part of an ROV or an AUV).

[0035] Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional top view of part of a BOP 28 with two opposing cylinders 50 in the open configuration, according to one embodiment. In the open configuration, the cylinders 50 are withdrawn from a central bore 56 of the BOP 28, do not come into contact with the conduit 24, and / or do not come into contact with the corresponding opposing cylinder 50. As illustrated, the BOP 28 has a housing (also called a body) 58 that surrounds and defines the central bore 56. As illustrated, the covers 60 are mounted on the housing 58 (for example, via threaded fasteners). Each hood 60 supports an actuator 62, which includes a piston 64 and a connecting rod 66. The actuators 62 can move the cylinders 50 closer together or further apart along the axial axis 4 and through the central bore 56 to shear the conduit 24 and / or to seal the central bore 56 (e.g., the annular space around the conduit 24).

[0036] As illustrated, a respective remote locking assembly 30 is supported by and / or coupled to each hood 60. Each remote locking assembly 30 is configured to be actuated (for example, via hydraulic actuation) between the unlocked and locked configurations. In the unlocked configuration, the remote locking assembly 30 allows the movement of the cylinders 50 of the BOP 28. Thus, in the unlocked configuration, the BOP 28 can be actuated between the open and closed configurations. In the locked configuration, the remote locking assembly 30 prevents the movement of the cylinders 50 of the BOP 28. Thus, in the locked configuration, the remote locking assembly 30 can fix / lock the BOP 28 in the closed configuration.

[0037] Each remote locking assembly 30 comprises or is configured to drive a locking mechanism 70 (for example, a locking screw) which is configured to move relative to the cylinders 50, the central bore 56 and / or the hood 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism 70 is thread-coupled to the hood 60 so that rotation of the locking mechanism 70 causes the locking mechanism 70 to move along the axial axis 4 relative to the hood 60 (for example, to the right and to the left in [Fig.2]). For example, the locking mechanism 70 can be rotated in a first direction (for example, along the circumferential axis 8) to drive the locking mechanism 70 towards the cylinder 50 and towards the central bore 56 while the cylinder 50 is in the closed configuration so as to come into contact with a tail rod of the piston 64 and lock the cylinder 50 in the closed configuration.The locking mechanism 70 can be rotated in a second direction (for example, in the opposite direction to the first along the circumferential axis 8) to move the locking mechanism 70 away from the cylinder 50 and the central bore 56, thus allowing the cylinder 50 to move from the closed to the open position. As illustrated, a central or rotational axis of the locking mechanism 70 extends along the axial axis 4.

[0038] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of one of the covers 60 and one of the remote locking assemblies 30, according to one embodiment. The remote locking assembly 30 is shown in the unlocked configuration in Figure 3. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the cover 60 and the remote locking assembly 30 of Figure 3, but with a gear housing 90 omitted for illustrative purposes, according to one embodiment. The remote locking assembly 30 is shown in the locked configuration in Figure 4.

[0039] The remote locking assembly 30 includes a motor 84 (for example, hydraulic motor, pneumatic motor, electric motor) which is coupled and drives The rotation of the locking mechanism 70 (for example, via a gear set having one or more gears). In particular, the motor 84 can be coupled (for example, directly and / or non-rotatingly) to a first gear 86 (for example, a spur gear) of the gear set. For example, the motor 84 can be coupled to the first gear 86 via an interface between an output shaft of the motor 84 and the first gear 86. The interface may have teeth on the output shaft of the motor 84 and corresponding teeth on the first gear 86, as described below.

[0040] The first gear 86 can mesh with a second gear 88 (for example, a spur gear) of the gear assembly. As illustrated, the first gear 86 and the second gear 88 mesh by contact between the respective teeth of the first gear 86 and the second gear 88. In another embodiment, the first gear 86 and the second gear 88 may not be in direct contact with each other, and a belt may be wound at least partially around the gears 86, 88 to transfer the torque from the first gear 86 to the second gear 88. The first and second gears 86, 88 may be positioned at least partially inside a gear housing 90.

[0041] The locking mechanism 70 can be coupled to the second gear 88 of the gear set. Thus, activating the motor 84 (for example, by applying hydraulic pressure in the case of a hydraulic motor) causes the output shaft of the motor 84 to rotate, which in turn causes the first gear 86 to rotate, which in turn causes the second gear 88 to rotate, which in turn causes the locking mechanism 70 to rotate. The first gear 86 may have a first diameter, the second gear 88 may have a second diameter, and the first diameter may be different (for example, smaller) than the second diameter. This can increase the torque applied to the locking mechanism 70. It should be noted that any variety of combinations of gears or similar components can be used to transfer the torque from the motor 84 to the locking mechanism 70.

[0042] As indicated above, the rotation of the locking mechanism 70 causes the locking mechanism 70 to move along the axial axis 4 relative to the cover 60. For example, rotating the locking mechanism 70 in a first direction along the circumferential axis 8 can bring the locking mechanism 70 along the axial axis 4 closer to the central bore 56, thereby actuating the locking mechanism 70 from the unlocked to the locked position. Similarly, rotating the locking mechanism 70 in a second direction (for example, in the opposite direction to the first) along the axis The circumferential 8 can move the locking mechanism 70 away from the central bore 56 along the axial axis 4, thereby actuating the locking mechanism 70 from the locked to the unlocked position. As illustrated, the remote locking assembly 30 (e.g., the motor 84, the gear assembly) can move with the locking mechanism 70 along the axial axis 4 relative to the cover 60. A central axis or rotation of the output shaft of the motor 84 can be parallel to a central axis or rotation of the locking mechanism 70.

[0043] Figures 5 to 8 illustrate a different embodiment of the cover 60 and the remote locking assembly 30. In particular, [Fig. 5] shows a perspective view of the cover 60 and the remote locking assembly 30, according to one embodiment. [Fig. 6] shows a perspective view of the cover and the remote locking assembly of [Fig. 5], according to one embodiment. A portion of a gear housing 96 is removed to illustrate a portion of a gear assembly 98 of the remote locking assembly 30 in [Fig. 6]. [Fig. 7] shows a top view of the cover 60 and the remote locking assembly 30 of [Fig. 5], according to one embodiment. [Fig. 8] shows an end view of the cover 60 and the remote locking assembly 30 of [Fig. 5], according to one embodiment.

[0044] As illustrated, the remote locking assembly 30 includes the motor 84 (for example, hydraulic motor, pneumatic motor, electric motor) which is coupled to and drives the rotation of the locking mechanism 70 (for example, via the gear assembly 98). The gear assembly 98 may include one or more gears (two are illustrated: 100, 102) and one or more belts (one is illustrated: 104). In particular, as illustrated in [Fig.6], the motor 84 can be coupled (for example, indirectly, in a non-rotational manner via one or more gears) to a first gear 100 (for example, a spur gear) of the gear assembly 98. The first gear 100 can drive a second gear 102 (for example, a spur gear) of the gear assembly 98 via the belt 104, which comes into contact and meshes with the respective teeth of the first gear 100 and the second gear 102.

[0045] The locking mechanism 70 can be coupled to the second gear 102 of the gear assembly. Thus, activating the motor 84 (for example, via the application of hydraulic pressure in the case of a hydraulic motor) causes the output shaft of the motor 84 to rotate, which causes the first gear 100 to rotate, which causes the second gear 102 to rotate, which in turn causes the locking mechanism 70 to rotate. The first gear 100 may have a first diameter, the second gear 102 may have a second diameter, and the first diameter may be different (for example, smaller) than the second diameter. This can increase the torque applied to the locking mechanism 70. It should be noted that any of a variety of combinations of gears or similar components can be used to transfer the torque from the motor 84 to the locking mechanism 70.

[0046] As indicated above, the rotation of the locking mechanism 70 causes the locking mechanism 70 to move along the axial axis 4 relative to the cover 60. For example, rotating the locking mechanism 70 in a first direction along the circumferential axis 8 can move the locking mechanism 70 along the axial axis 4 closer to the central bore 56, thereby actuating the locking mechanism 70 from the unlocked to the locked position. Similarly, rotating the locking mechanism 70 in a second direction along the circumferential axis 8 can move the locking mechanism 70 along the axial axis 4 away from the central bore 56, thereby actuating the locking mechanism 70 from the locked to the unlocked position.

[0047] In the embodiments described above, the output shaft of the motor 84 can rotate in a first direction (for example, clockwise) to move the locking mechanism 70 from the unlocked to the locked position. This can be in response to a first pressure in the motor 84 (for example, in the case of a hydraulic motor). The output shaft of the motor 84 can rotate in a second direction (for example, counterclockwise) to move the locking mechanism 70 from the locked to the unlocked position. This can be in response to a second pressure in the motor 84 (for example, in the case of a hydraulic motor). The first and second pressures can be different. In one example, the first pressure can be 10 MPa and the second pressure can be 14 MPa.

[0048] The embodiments described below are capable of actuating the locking mechanism 70 between the locked and unlocked configurations using substantially the same pressure. For example, the embodiments described below can generate different torques (for example, by rotating the locking mechanism 70 in different directions) using substantially the same pressure.

[0049] Figure 9 illustrates a schematic side view of another gear assembly 900 comprising a first set of gears 910A, 920A and a second set of gears 910B, 920B, according to one embodiment. Figure 10 illustrates a schematic top view of the gear assembly 900 shown in Figure 9, according to one embodiment. Gear 920B is shown in dashed lines in Figure 9, as it is located behind the larger gear 920A.

[0050] The gear set 900 can be used as an alternative to the gears 86, 88 in the gear set of [Fig. 3], or as an alternative to the gears 100, 102 in the gear set 98 of [Fig. 6]. For example, the first gear set 91 OA, 920A and the second gear set 910B, 920B can both be positioned at least partially inside the gear housing 90 (see [Fig. 3]), the gear housing 96 (see Figures 5 to 8), or another gear housing.

[0051] As described in more detail below, the gears 910A, 910B can be coupled and / or meshed with a shaft 940 of the motor 84 (i.e., the motor shaft), and the gears 920A, 920B can be coupled and / or meshed with the locking mechanism 70. The gears 910A, 910B can be coaxial with each other (and the motor shaft 940) and axially offset from each other along the motor shaft 940. The gears 920A, 920B can be coaxial with each other (and the locking mechanism 70) and axially offset from each other along the locking mechanism 70. The motor shaft 940 can be parallel to the locking mechanism 70.

[0052] As illustrated, gear 910A has a different diameter (e.g., smaller) compared to gear 910B. Thus, gear 910A can be called the smaller motor gear, and gear 910B can be called the larger motor gear. Similarly, gear 920A can have a different diameter (e.g., larger) compared to gear 920B. Thus, gear 920A can be called the larger locking gear, and gear 920B can be called the smaller locking gear.

[0053] The motor gears 910A, 910B may each have teeth 912A and 912B, respectively. The teeth 912A may extend radially inward from an outer ring 914A of the smaller motor gear 910A, and the teeth 912B may extend radially inward from an outer ring 914B of the larger motor gear 910B. The teeth 912A may be axially offset from the teeth 912B relative to the motor shaft 940. In one embodiment, the teeth 912A, 912B may be or have splines.

[0054] The motor shaft 940 may have teeth 932 that are aligned with and configured to mesh with the teeth 912A on the smaller motor gear 910A. The motor shaft 940 may also have teeth 934 that are aligned with and configured to mesh with the teeth 912B on the larger motor gear 910B. The teeth 932 and 934 may extend radially outward from the motor shaft 940. The teeth 932 may be axially offset from the teeth 934 along the motor shaft 940. In one embodiment, the teeth 932 and 934 may be or have splines.

[0055] The teeth 932 can be positioned radially inward from the teeth 934. Similarly, the teeth 912A can be positioned radially inward from the teeth 912B. The number of teeth 912A on the smaller motor gear 910A can be less than the number of teeth 912B on the larger motor gear 910B. In one example, the smaller motor gear 910A can have nineteen teeth 912A, and the larger motor gear 910B can have twenty-four teeth 912B.

[0056] The teeth 912A and / or the teeth 932 can be configured to mesh with each other to transfer torque from the motor shaft 940 to the smaller motor gear 910A when the motor shaft 940 rotates in a first direction (for example, clockwise). For example, when the motor 84 rotates the motor shaft 940 clockwise, the teeth 912A, 932 mesh with each other and also rotate the smaller motor gear 910A clockwise.

[0057] The teeth 912A and / or the teeth 932 can be configured so that they do not mesh with each other when the motor shaft 940 rotates in a second direction (for example, counterclockwise) so that no torque is transferred from the motor shaft 940 to the smaller motor gear 910A. For example, when the motor 84 rotates the motor shaft 940 counterclockwise, the teeth 912A of the smaller motor gear 910A can disengage (for example, axially and / or radially misaligned) from the teeth 932 of the motor shaft 940. As a result, the smaller motor gear 910A can be in a freewheeling state when the motor shaft 940 rotates counterclockwise.Thus, when the motor shaft 940 rotates counterclockwise, the smaller motor gear 910A may either not rotate, or the smaller motor gear 910A may rotate clockwise.

[0058] The teeth 912B and / or the teeth 934 can be configured to mesh with each other to transfer torque from the motor shaft 940 to the larger motor gear 910B when the motor shaft 940 rotates in the second direction (for example, counterclockwise). For example, when the motor 84 rotates the motor shaft 940 counterclockwise, the teeth 912B, 934 mesh with each other and also rotate the larger motor gear 910B counterclockwise.

[0059] The teeth 912B and / or the teeth 934 can be configured so as not to mesh with each other when the motor shaft 940 rotates in the first direction (for example, clockwise) so that no Torque is not transferred from the motor shaft 940 to the larger motor gear 910B. For example, when the motor 84 rotates the motor shaft 940 clockwise, the teeth 912B of the larger motor gear 910B may become axially and / or radially misaligned with the teeth 934 of the motor shaft 940. As a result, the larger motor gear 910B may be in a freewheeling state when the motor shaft 940 rotates clockwise. Thus, when the motor shaft 940 rotates clockwise, the larger motor gear 910B may either not rotate, or the larger motor gear 910B may rotate counterclockwise.

[0060] The motor gears 910A, 910B can be configured to transfer their rotational motion / torque to the locking gears 920A, 920B, respectively. Although not shown, in one embodiment, the motor gears 910A, 910B can be configured to transfer their rotational motion / torque to the locking gears 920A, 920B, respectively, via direct contact, as is done between gears 86, 88 in [Fig. 4]. However, in the embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10, a first belt 930A can be wound at least partially around the first set of gears 910A, 920A and configured to transfer the rotational motion / torque from the smaller motor gear 910A to the larger locking gear 920A.Similarly, a second belt 930B can be wound at least partially around the second set of gears 910B, 920B and configured to transfer the rotational motion / torque from the larger motor gear 910B to the smaller locking gear 920B.

[0061] As discussed above, the locking gears 920A, 920B can be coupled and / or meshed with the locking mechanism 70. The locking gears 920A, 920B can each have teeth 922A and 922B, respectively. The teeth 922A can extend radially inward from an outer ring 924A of the larger locking gear 920A, and the teeth 922B can extend radially inward from an outer ring 924B of the smaller locking gear 920B. The teeth 922A can be axially offset from the teeth 922B relative to the locking mechanism 70. In one embodiment, the teeth 922A, 922B may be or have splines.

[0062] The locking mechanism 70 may include teeth 74 that are aligned with and configured to mesh with the teeth 922A on the larger locking gear 920A. The locking mechanism 70 may also include teeth 72 that are aligned with and configured to mesh with the teeth 922B. on the smaller locking gear 920 B. The teeth 72, 74 can extend radially outwards from the locking mechanism 70. The teeth 72 can be axially offset from the teeth 74 along the locking mechanism 70. In one embodiment, the teeth 72, 74 may be or have splines.

[0063] The teeth 72 can be positioned radially inward from the teeth 74. Similarly, the teeth 922B can be positioned radially inward from the teeth 922A. The number of teeth 922A on the larger locking gear 920A can be greater than the number of teeth 922B on the smaller locking gear 920B. In one example, the larger locking gear 920A can have thirty-nine teeth 922A, and the smaller locking gear 920B can have thirty-six teeth 922B.

[0064] The teeth 922A and / or the teeth 74 can be configured to mesh with each other to transfer torque from the larger locking gear 920A to the locking mechanism 70 when the larger locking gear 920A rotates in the first direction (for example, clockwise). For example, when the larger locking gear 920A rotates clockwise, the teeth 922A and 74 mesh with each other and cause the locking mechanism 70 to also rotate clockwise. As discussed above, this can cause the locking mechanism 70 to actuate from the unlocked to the locked position.

[0065] The teeth 922A and / or the teeth 74 can be configured so that they do not mesh with each other when the larger locking gear 920A rotates in the second direction (for example, counterclockwise) so that no torque is transferred from the larger locking gear 920A to the locking mechanism 70. For example, when the larger locking gear 920A rotates counterclockwise, the teeth 922A of the larger locking gear 920A can become axially and / or radially misaligned with the teeth 74 of the locking mechanism 70. As a result, the larger locking gear 920A can be in a freewheeling state when rotating counterclockwise.Thus, when the larger locking gear 920 rotates counterclockwise, the locking mechanism 70 may either not rotate, or the locking mechanism 70 may rotate clockwise.

[0066] The 922B teeth and / or the 72 teeth can be configured to mesh with each other to transfer the torque from the smaller locking gear 920B engages the locking mechanism 70 when the smaller locking gear 920B rotates in the second direction (for example, counterclockwise). For instance, when the smaller locking gear 920B rotates counterclockwise, the teeth 922B, 72 mesh with each other and cause the locking mechanism 70 to also rotate counterclockwise. As discussed above, this can cause the locking mechanism 70 to move from the locked to the unlocked position.

[0067] The teeth 922B and / or the teeth 72 can be configured so that they do not mesh with each other when the smaller locking gear 920B rotates in the first direction (for example, clockwise) so that no torque is transferred from the smaller locking gear 920B to the locking mechanism 70. For example, when the smaller locking gear 920B rotates clockwise, the teeth 922B of the smaller locking gear 920B can become axially and / or radially misaligned with the teeth 72 of the locking mechanism 70. As a result, the smaller locking gear 920B can be in a freewheeling state when rotating clockwise.Thus, when the smaller locking gear 920B rotates clockwise, the locking mechanism 70 may either not rotate, or the locking mechanism 70 may rotate counterclockwise.

[0068] In embodiments of Figures 9 and 10, the output shaft 940 of the motor 84 can rotate in a first direction (for example, clockwise) to move the locking mechanism 70 from the unlocked to the locked position. The output shaft 940 of the motor 84 can rotate in a second direction (for example, counterclockwise) to move the locking mechanism 70 from the locked to the unlocked position. Both actuations can be in response to substantially the same pressure in the motor 84 (for example, in the case of a hydraulic motor).

[0069] The execution of the two actuations at substantially the same pressure can be obtained using the gear assembly 900 comprising the two gear assemblies 910A, 920A and 910B, 920B. More particularly, the execution of the two actuations at substantially the same pressure can be based at least partially on the sizes (for example, the diameters) of the gears 910A, 910B, 920A, 920B (i.e. the gear ratios), the number of teeth 912A, 912B, 922A, 922B on the gears 910A, 910B, 920A, 920B, the speed / torque relationship between the gears 910A, 910B, 920A, 920B, or a combination thereof.

[0070] In one example, the pressure required to perform both actuations may be substantially the same (for example, about 10 MPa). As used here, "substantially the same pressure" refers to about 2 MPa, 1 MPa, 500 kPa, or 100 kPa. Actuation of the locking mechanism 70 from the unlocked to the locked configuration, and from the locked to the unlocked configuration, using substantially the same pressure, can offer the advantage of simplifying / reducing the equipment used to operate and / or monitor the motor 84. In particular, the motor 84 has many components and operations that work together to generate a predetermined pressure. If one or more of these components or operations malfunction, the predetermined pressure may not be generated.The systems (e.g., mechanical systems) and processes described here simplify components and operations so that predetermined pressure can be generated.

[0071] Figure 11 illustrates a flowchart of a method 1100 for operating the BOP 28, according to one embodiment. An illustrative sequence of the method 1100 is given below. However, it will be understood that one or more parts of the method 1100 may be executed in a different order, executed simultaneously, repeated, or omitted. Furthermore, although the method 1100 is described as actuating the BOP 28 from a first configuration (e.g., open) to a second configuration (e.g., closed), and / or actuating the remote locking assembly 30 from a first configuration (e.g., unlocked) to a second configuration (e.g., locked), the method 1100 may also, or instead, be used to actuate any device from a first configuration to a second configuration.

[0072] The method 1100 may include measuring the pressure inside the borehole 26, as in 1102. In response to the fact that the measured pressure is greater than a pressure threshold, the method 1100 may also include actuation of the BOP 28 from the first configuration (e.g., open) to the second configuration (e.g., closed), as in 1104.

[0073] The method 1100 may also include actuation of the remote locking assembly 30 (e.g., the locking mechanism 70) from a first configuration (e.g., unlocked) to a second configuration (e.g., locked), as in 1106. This can fix the BOP 28 in the closed configuration. Actuation of the remote locking assembly 30 may include causing the motor 84 to rotate the motor shaft 940 in a first direction (e.g., clockwise). When the motor 84 is a hydraulic motor, this may include increasing the pressure in the motor to a predetermined pressure (e.g., 10 MPa). As described below- As the motor shaft 940 rotates clockwise, teeth 932 of the motor shaft 940 can mesh with teeth 912A of the smaller motor gear 910A, causing the smaller motor gear 910A to rotate clockwise. This can cause the first belt 930A to rotate clockwise, which in turn can cause the larger locking gear 920A to rotate clockwise. As the larger locking gear 920A rotates clockwise, teeth 922A of the larger locking gear 920A can mesh with teeth 74 of the locking mechanism 70, causing the locking mechanism 70 to rotate clockwise.This causes the locking mechanism 70 to move axially in the first direction, which actuates the locking mechanism 70 into the locked configuration.

[0074] As discussed above, when the motor shaft 940, the smaller motor gear 910A, the first belt 930A, the larger locking gear 920A, the locking mechanism 70, or a combination thereof, rotate(s) clockwise, the larger motor gear 910B and / or the smaller locking gear 920B may be in a freewheeling state in which they may not rotate, or they may rotate counterclockwise.

[0075] The process 1100 may also include performing a wellbore operation to reduce the pressure in the wellbore 26, as in 1108. In one example, the wellbore operation may include reducing the flow rate of the fluid pumped into the wellbore 26, reducing the weight on the tool (WOB), or the like.

[0076] The method 1100 may also include the measurement of the pressure inside the borehole 26, as in 1110. In one embodiment, the pressure may be measured after the borehole operation.

[0077] In response to the fact that the measured pressure is (now) below the pressure threshold (e.g., after well drilling operation), the method 1100 may include actuation of the remote locking assembly 30 (e.g., the locking mechanism 70) from the second configuration (e.g., locked) to the second (e.g., unlocked configuration), as in 1112. This may allow the BOP 28 to be actuated in the open configuration, as discussed below. Actuation of the remote locking assembly 30 may include causing the motor 84 to rotate the motor shaft 940 in the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise). When the motor 84 is a hydraulic motor, this may include increasing the Pressure in the motor is increased up to the predetermined pressure (e.g., 10 MPa). As described above, in response to the motor shaft 940 rotating counterclockwise, the teeth 934 of the motor shaft 940 can mesh with the teeth 912B of the larger motor gear 910A, causing the larger motor gear 910B to rotate counterclockwise. This can cause the second belt 930B to rotate counterclockwise, which can cause the smaller locking gear 920B to rotate counterclockwise. In response to the smaller locking gear 920B rotating counterclockwise, the teeth 922B of the smaller locking gear 920B can engage with the teeth 72 of the locking mechanism 70, causing the locking mechanism to rotate counterclockwise.This causes the locking mechanism 70 to move axially in the second direction, which actuates the locking mechanism 70 in the unlocked configuration.

[0078] As discussed above, when the motor shaft 940, the larger motor gear 910B, the second belt 930B, the smaller locking gear 920B, the locking mechanism 70, or a combination thereof, rotate(s) counterclockwise, the smaller motor gear 910A and / or the larger locking gear 920A may be in a freewheeling state in which they may not rotate, or they may rotate clockwise.

[0079] The method 1100 may also include actuation of the BOP 28 from the second configuration (e.g., closed) to the first configuration (e.g., open), as in 1114.

[0080] Advantageously, the remote locking system described herein can be used with a BOP, such as a BOP of an offshore or onshore system. Thus, the remote locking system can be configured for use in an underwater environment and / or can have features that allow the remote locking system to be used effectively in an underwater or other remote environment even when the remote locking system is not physically accessible by an operator (e.g., manually by an operator, an ROV, and / or an AUV). For example, the remote locking assembly can be controlled via a control device in response to inputs at a remote base station (e.g., on a platform at the sea surface) that is physically separate from the remote locking assembly of the remote locking system.It should be noted that the remote locking system described here can be used with either. any of a variety of BOP types, including BOPs that have a single cylinder (e.g., those that seal the center bore with only the single cylinder; without an opposing cylinder). It should also be noted that any of the features described above with respect to Figures 1 to 11 can be combined in any suitable manner.

[0081] As used herein, the terms “inside” and “outside”; “top” and “bottom”; “superior” and “inferior”; “upward” and “downward”; “upstream”; “downstream”; “above” and “below”; “inward” and “outward”; and other similar terms as used herein refer to relative positions with respect to one another and are not intended to denote a particular direction or spatial orientation. The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “connect,” “connection,” “connected,” “connected with,” and “connecting” refer to “in direct connection with” or “connected via one or more intermediate elements or members.”

[0082] The preceding description, for the purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms described. Numerous modifications and variations are possible in light of the teachings above. Furthermore, the order in which the elements of the methods are illustrated and described may be rearranged, and / or two or more elements may appear simultaneously. The embodiments have been chosen and described to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, and thus to enable others skilled in the art to make the best use of the invention and various embodiments with various modifications adapted to the particular intended use.

Claims

1. Demands System, comprising: a motor (84) comprising a motor shaft (940) which is configured to rotate in a first direction in response to a first motor pressure, and to rotate in a second direction in response to a second motor pressure, wherein the first and second directions are opposite to each other, and wherein the first and second motor pressures are within 1 MPa of each other; a locking assembly (30) comprising: a smaller motor gear (910A) configured to be rotated in the first direction in response to a motor shaft (940) rotating in the first direction; a larger motor gear (910B) configured to be rotated in the second direction in response to the motor shaft (940) rotating in the second direction; a larger locking gear (920A) configured to be rotated in the first direction in response to the smaller motor gear (91 OA) rotating in the first direction; a smaller locking gear (920B) configured to be rotated in the second direction in response to the larger motor gear (910B) rotating in the second direction; a first belt (930A) wound at least partially around the smaller motor gear (910A) and the larger locking gear (920A), wherein the first belt (930A) is configured to transmit torque from the smaller motor gear (910A) to the larger locking gear (920A); a second belt (930B) wound at least partially around the larger motor gear (910B) and the smaller locking gear (920B), wherein the second belt (930B) is configured to transmit torque from the larger motor gear (910B) to the smaller locking gear (920B); and a locking mechanism (70) configured to be rotated in the first direction in response to the larger locking gear (920A) rotating in the first direction, which causes the locking mechanism (70) to move in a first axial direction and to actuate from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration, and wherein the locking mechanism (70) is configured to be rotated in the second direction in response to the smaller locking gear (920B) rotating in the second direction, causing the locking mechanism (70) to move in a second axial direction and to actuate from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration;and a blowout preventer (BOP) configured to actuate between an open and a closed configuration, wherein the locking mechanism (70) allows the BOP to actuate between the open and closed configurations when the locking mechanism (70) is in the unlocked configuration, and wherein the locking mechanism (70) prevents the BOP from actuating between the open and closed configurations when the locking mechanism (70) is in the locked configuration.

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the smaller motor gear (910A), the larger locking gear (920A) and the first belt (930A) are substantially parallel to the larger motor gear (910B), the smaller locking gear (920B) and the second belt (930B), respectively.

3. System according to claim 2, wherein the smaller motor gear (910A), the larger motor gear (910B) and the motor shaft (940) are coaxial with each other, wherein the larger locking gear (920A), the smaller locking gear (920B) and the locking mechanism (70) are coaxial with each other, and wherein the motor shaft (940) is substantially parallel to the locking mechanism (70).

4. A system according to claim 3, wherein the smaller motor gear (910A) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the motor shaft (940) and the larger motor gear (910B) rotate in the second direction, wherein the larger motor gear (910B) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the motor shaft (940) and the smaller motor gear (910A) rotate in the first direction, wherein the larger locking gear (920A) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the smaller locking gear (920B) and the locking mechanism (70) rotate in the second direction, and in which the smaller locking gear (920B) is configured to be in the freewheeling state when the larger locking gear (920A) and the locking mechanism (70) rotate in the first direction.

5. System according to claim 1, wherein the motor shaft (940) is configured to transfer torque to the smaller motor gear (910A) when the motor shaft (940) rotates in the first direction, wherein the motor shaft (940) is configured not to transfer torque to the smaller motor gear (910A) when the motor shaft (940) rotates in the second direction, wherein the larger locking gear (920A) is configured to transfer torque to the locking mechanism (70) when the larger locking gear (920A) rotates in the first direction, and wherein the larger locking gear (920A) is configured not to transfer torque to the locking mechanism (70) when the larger locking gear (920A) rotates in the second direction.

6. Method of operating a blowout preventer (BOP), the method comprising: actuation of the BOP from an open configuration to a closed configuration;and the actuation of a locking assembly (30) from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration when the BOP is in the closed configuration, wherein the actuation of the locking assembly (30) from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration comprises: driving the rotation of a motor shaft (940) in a first direction, which causes the rotation of a first motor gear (910A) in the first direction, which causes the rotation of a first locking gear (920A) in the first direction, which causes the rotation of a locking mechanism (70) in the first direction, which causes the movement of the locking mechanism (70) in a first axial direction, which actuates the locking assembly (30) from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration, wherein the locking assembly (30) prevents the BOP from actuation; between the open configuration and the closed configuration when the locking set (30) is in the locked configuration.

7. A method according to claim 6, further comprising: actuation of the locking assembly (30) from the locked to the unlocked configuration, wherein the actuation of the locking assembly (30) from the locked to the unlocked configuration comprises: driving the rotation of the motor shaft (940) in a second direction, which causes a second motor gear (910B) to rotate in the second direction, which causes a second locking gear (920B) to rotate in the second direction, which causes the locking mechanism (70) to rotate in the second direction, which causes the locking mechanism (70) to move in a second axial direction, which actuates the locking assembly (30) from the locked to the unlocked configuration,wherein the locking assembly (30) allows the BOP to actuate between the open and closed configurations when the locking assembly (30) is in the unlocked configuration, and wherein the motor shaft (940) rotates in the first and second directions at substantially the same pressure; and the actuation of the BOP from the closed to the open configuration when the locking assembly (30) is in the unlocked configuration.

8. A method according to claim 7, further comprising: measuring a first pressure in a borehole (26) at a first instant, in which the BOP is actuated from the open configuration to the closed configuration in response to the fact that the first pressure is greater than a threshold; and measuring a second pressure in the borehole (26) at a second instant, in which the BOP is actuated from the closed configuration to the open configuration in response to the fact that the second pressure is less than the threshold.

9. A method according to claim 8, wherein the first motor gear (910A) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the motor shaft (940) and the second motor gear (910B) rotate in the second direction, wherein the second motor gear (910B) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the motor shaft (940) and the first motor gear (91 OA) rotate in the first direction, wherein the first locking gear (920A) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the second locking gear (920B) and the locking mechanism (70) rotate in the second direction, and wherein the second locking gear (920B) is configured to be in a freewheeling state when the first locking gear (920A) and the locking mechanism (70) rotate in the first direction.

10. A method according to claim 9, wherein the first motor gear (91 OA), the second motor gear (910B) and the motor shaft (940) are coaxial with each other, wherein the first locking gear (920A), the second locking gear (920B) and the locking mechanism (70) are coaxial with each other, and wherein the motor shaft (940) is substantially parallel to the locking mechanism (70).

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