Patent ID: 7537057
Filing Date: 2009-05-26
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A connector for securing a first generally cylindrical member to a second generally cylindrical member which includes a number of locking grooves that are formed therein, the connector comprising: a generally cylindrical body which includes a first end that is attached to the first member and a second end that is positioned proximate the second member; a generally cylindrical housing sleeve which is positioned concentrically over the body and which includes an upper end portion that is secured to the body and a lower end portion that is disposed adjacent the second member; a generally cylindrical primary piston which is positioned between the body and the housing sleeve; a locking mandrel which is connected to or formed integrally with the primary piston and which includes at least first and second annular portions that have different diameters; a lock ring which is supported by the lower end portion of the housing sleeve adjacent the locking grooves and which includes at least first and second cylindrical portions that correspond to the first and second annular portions of the locking mandrel; wherein movement of the primary piston from a first position to a second position will force the first and second annular portions of the locking mandrel into engagement with the first and second cylindrical portions of the lock ring, respectively, and consequently force the lock ring into engagement with the locking grooves to thereby lock the connector to the second member; first means for moving the primary piston from the first position to the second position, the first moving means comprising: