Patent Publication Number: US-9416602-B2

Title: Apparatus and methods for limiting movement of gripping members

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/578,463, filed Aug. 10, 2012. The &#39;463 application is a national stage entry under 35 U.S.C. §371 from PCT Application Serial No. US/2011/052768 filed on Sep. 22, 2011. The &#39;768 PCT application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/403,829, filed Sep. 22, 2010. The &#39;463, &#39;768 PCT, and &#39;829 applications are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Elevators are generally employed in casing, drilling, and other wellbore operations to hoist and lower tubulars (e.g., casing or drill pipe) into the wellbore. The elevators may be coupled to a travelling block of the rig, and maneuvered to engage and hoist a tubular. The tubular is then brought into position and attached (“made up”) to a lower tubular, which is already positioned in the wellbore, and then lowered. One common type of elevator employs slips that support the tubular by biting into or otherwise engaging the outer diameter of the tubular. Slip-type elevators generally include a “bowl” and several slips, which can be circumferentially spaced apart. When the elevator is disposed around a tubular, the slips can be lowered into the bowl, thereby adjusting the slips to move radially inward into engagement with the tubular. Downward force on the slips from the weight of tubular/tube string provides the gripping force for the slips. 
     This arrangement has proven effective in a variety of different applications. However, during running operations, it is not uncommon for the tube string to catch on a wellbore impediment. The rig operators may be unaware of the instant such catching occurs, and thus the elevator may continue to be lowered as the tube string is temporarily supported on such an impediment. Accordingly, the elevator may be relieved of the weight of the tube string, which, as noted, the elevator uses to provide the gripping force. This situation can lead to a drop of the tube string, which can be costly, or even catastrophic, to wellbore operations. 
     Attempts to address this potential have met with challenges. For example, existing devices useable to lock elevator slips into place generally require one or more manual adjustments and/or calibrations prior to use, to accommodate the diameter of the elevator and/or the tubular to be gripped. This introduces an additional potential for human error, takes valuable time in the running process, and generally does not permit lowering of the slips to engage a tubular while the locking devices themselves are operatively engaged. 
     What is needed, therefore, is an improved apparatus and method for limiting slip movement in an elevator. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments of the disclosure may provide an exemplary apparatus for limiting movement of gripping members relative to an elevator. The apparatus may include a locking arm coupled to one or more of the gripping members and configured to move in a first direction when the gripping members move toward engagement with a tubular and to move in a second direction when the gripping members move away from engagement with the tubular. The apparatus may also include a first engagement member configured to move between a disengaged position, in which the first engagement member and the locking arm are relatively moveable, and an engaged position, in which the first engagement member allows the locking arm to move in the first direction but restrains the locking arm from moving in the second direction by more than a selected distance. 
     Embodiments of the disclosure may further provide an exemplary apparatus for gripping a tubular. The apparatus may include an annular body defining a longitudinal bore configured to receive the tubular therethrough, and slips disposed at least partially in the longitudinal bore, the slips being moveable radially and longitudinally into and out of engagement with the tubular. The apparatus may also include a locking arm coupled to one or more of the slips and configured to move in a first direction when the slips move toward engagement with the tubular and to move in a second direction when the slips move away from engagement with the tubular. The apparatus may further include a first engagement member configured to move between a disengaged position, in which the first engagement member and the locking arm are relatively moveable, and an engaged position, in which the first engagement member allows the locking arm to move in the first direction but restrains the locking arm from moving in the second direction by more than a selected distance. 
     Embodiments of the disclosure may also provide an exemplary method for limiting movement of slips of an elevator relative to the elevator. The method may include moving the slips into engagement with a tubular, wherein moving the slips requires a locking arm to move. The method may also include engaging the locking arm with a first engagement member. Engagement between the locking arm and the first engagement member permits movement of the locking arm in a first direction and provides an end range for movement of the locking arm in a second direction, to limit movement of at least one of the slips relative to the elevator. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary elevator, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a front view of an exemplary apparatus for limiting movement of slips of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a front view of the apparatus of  FIG. 2  in an engaged position, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a front view of the apparatus of  FIGS. 2 and 3  in an interlocked position, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator including the apparatus of  FIGS. 2-4 , with the apparatus and the slips in an engaged position, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of the elevator and apparatus of  FIG. 5 , with the apparatus and the slips in a disengaged position, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a flowchart of a method for limiting slip movement in an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 9A  illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 9B  illustrates a close-up view of a first engagement arm and a second engagement arm engaged with a locking arm, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 9C  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 10A  illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 10B  illustrates a close-up view of a first engagement arm and a second engagement arm disengaged with a locking arm, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 10C  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 10D  illustrates a close-up view of a disengagement member, a plate  1027 , and a yoke disposed on an elevator, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 11A  illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 11B  illustrates a close-up view of a portion of an elevator having a slip release arm, a slip locking member, and a release bar, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 11C  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 11D  illustrates a close-up view of a portion of an elevator having a yoke having a yoke crossbar, the slip release arm, and a disengagement member, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 12A  illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 12B  illustrates a close-up view of a portion of an elevator having a slip release arm, a slip locking member, and a release bar, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 12C  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments described herein 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures, or functions of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various exemplary embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and/or configurations discussed in the various Figures. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. Finally, the exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination of ways, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. 
     Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, various entities may refer to the same component by different names, and as such, the naming convention for the elements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Further, the naming convention used herein is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. Additionally, in the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to.” All numerical values in this disclosure may be exact or approximate values unless otherwise specifically stated. Accordingly, various embodiments of the disclosure may deviate from the numbers, values, and ranges disclosed herein without departing from the intended scope. Furthermore, as it is used in the claims or specification, the term “or” is intended to encompass both exclusive and inclusive cases, i.e., “A or B” is intended to be synonymous with “at least one of A and B,” unless otherwise expressly specified herein. 
     Moreover, it will be understood that various directions such as “upper”, “lower”, “bottom”, “top”, “left”, “right”, and so forth are made only with respect to explanation in conjunction with the drawings, and that the components may be oriented differently, for instance, during transportation and manufacturing as well as operation. Because many varying and different embodiments may be made within the scope of the inventive concept(s) herein taught, and because many modifications may be made in the embodiments described herein, it is to be understood that the details herein are to be interpreted as illustrative and non-limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator  1 , having a generally annular elevator body  10  defining a longitudinal bore  11 . The elevator  1  has one or more gripping members or “slips”  12  disposed at least partially therein. Although not individually labeled, the slips  12  may include a body and/or retainer movable into and from a bowl-shaped region of the elevator body  10  to engage and disengage a tubular, respectively. The body and/or retainer of each slip  12  may include teeth, marking gripping surfaces, non-marking gripping surfaces, shoulders, combinations thereof, or may receive an insert including such teeth, surfaces, and/or shoulders for engagement with the tubular (not shown). In other exemplary embodiments, however, the elevator  10  may not include slips and thus may be configured to otherwise engage, hoist, and lower a tubular or may be another type of running tool or gripping device. 
     The elevator  1  may further include ears  13  and stabilizing members  15  for engaging bails (not shown) and orienting and/or moving the elevator  1 . The elevator  1  may be positioned with a tubular (not shown) received through the bore  11 . The slips  12  may be moveable radially and/or longitudinally in the bore  11 . For example, the slips  12  may be movable between a lowered, engaged position, where they may engage a tubular (not shown), and a raised, disengaged position, where the slips  12  may allow independent movement between the elevator  1  and the tubular. The slips  12  may be moved between the engaged and disengaged positions manually or through any remote, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical devices and methods. Further, the elevator  1  may also include a timing ring  14  coupled to the slips  12 , such that movement of the timing ring  14  moves the slips  12 . The timing ring  14  may in turn be coupled with a yoke  16 , which may be manually, remotely, etc. manipulated to raise and/or lower the timing ring  14 , thereby raising and/or lowering the slips  12 . 
     The elevator  1  also includes an exemplary apparatus  2  for limiting movement of the slips  12  relative to the elevator  1 . The apparatus  2 , or at least portions thereof, may be fastened to the elevator body  10  using bolts  17 , however other methods and devices of coupling, such as fastening with other types of fasteners (e.g., pins or rivets), welding, brazing, adhering, or integral forming, may also be used in lieu of in addition to the depicted bolts  17 . The apparatus  2  includes a cover or housing  18 , from which a locking arm  20  extends to engage the yoke  16 . For example, movement of the slips  12 , and thus the timing ring  14  and yoke  16 , may cause movement of the locking arm  20 , and vice versa. More particularly, in at least one exemplary embodiment, movement of the slips  12  downward with respect to the body  10  to engage a tubular may require upward movement of the locking arm  20  through the connection between the locking arm  20  and the yoke  16 , while upward movement of the slips  12  relative the body  10  (i.e., away from the elevator bowl) may require downward movement of the locking arm  20 . 
     The locking arm  20  may include two or more sets of teeth; for example, first and second sets of teeth  22 ,  24 , disposed on opposite longitudinal sides of the locking arm  20 , as shown. An actuation member, e.g., a handle  26 , may also extend from the housing  18 . The handle  26  may be coupled with the slips  12 , the timing ring  14 , and/or the yoke  16 , such that actuation of the depicted apparatus  2  using the handle  26  may cause or prevent movement of the slips  12 , as will be described in greater detail below. Other remote, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or electrical devices or methods for actuation, in addition to or in lieu of the manual handle  26 , may be used to engage and disengage the apparatus. 
     With continuing reference to  FIG. 1 ,  FIG. 2  illustrates a front view of the exemplary apparatus  2 , according to an embodiment, with the housing  18  removed for illustrative purposes. The locking arm  20  is shown engaged with the yoke  16 , as described above, such that movement of the slips  12  downward with respect to the elevator body  10  to engage a tubular causes the yoke  16  and thus the locking arm  20  to move in a first or “upward” direction  25 . Further, movement of the slips  12  upward with respect to the elevator body  10  causes the yoke  16  and thus the locking arm  20  to move in a second or “downward” direction  27 . To reiterate, it will be appreciated that directional language such as “upward” or “downward” as used herein is not intended to be limiting, but is instead conveniently used to indicate a relative positioning or direction among elements, as shown in the drawings. 
     A fastener such as a pin  19  may be engaged through complementary orifices within the yoke  16  and/or locking arm  20 . Although not shown, in another exemplar embodiment, a protrusion of one of the yoke  16  and the locking arm  20  may engaged the other through a complementary orifice (not shown). Further, the locking arm  20  may have a central slot or orifice  21  through which two or more fasteners, e.g., bolts  23  may secure the locking arm  20  to the elevator body  10 . Movement of the locking arm  20  in the upward and downward directions  25 ,  27  relative to the elevator body  10  and the bolts  23  is thereby permitted and guided by the engagement of the bolts  23  through the slot  21 . 
     The apparatus  2  may also include one or more engagement members or “arms” (two shown:  28 ,  30 ). The engagement arms  28 ,  30  may also be referred to as a contacting, gripping, and/or movement-limiting member. In an exemplary embodiment, the first engagement arm  28  may include a first set of complementary teeth  30 , and the second engagement arm  32  may include a second set of complementary teeth  34 . The engagement arms  28 ,  32  may be pivotally coupled to the elevator body  10 , such that the engagement arms  28 ,  32  can selectively engage or disengage from the locking arm  20 . Accordingly, the engagement arms  28 ,  32  may be coupled to the elevator body  10  using a pivot pin  33  or the like. In other embodiments, the engagement arms  28 ,  32  can be linearly moveable, rather than, or in addition to, being pivotally movable. 
     Further, the handle  26  may be coupled to the first engagement arm  28  to enable movement thereof between engaged and disengaged positions. A connecting member (shown in and described below with reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 ) may be used to connect the first and second engagement arms  28 ,  32  such that use of the handle  26  to move the first engagement arm  28  between effects a corresponding movement of the second engagement arm  32 . In other embodiments, two or more handles  26 , e.g., one for each engagement arm  28 ,  32 , may be employed to independently move each of the engagement arms  28 ,  32 . Further, in embodiments including more than two engagement arms, a single or multiple handles  26  may be employed, with each handle coupled to one, two, or more engagement arms  28 ,  32 . Moreover, it although the engagement arms  28 ,  32  are shown to be moveable (e.g., pivotal) with respect to the locking arm  20 , in other embodiments, the locking arm  20 , the elevator body  10 , or other parts of the apparatus  2  and/or elevator  1  may be movable to cause contact between the engagement arms  28 ,  32  and the locking arm  20 . 
     The first engagement arm  28  may have an extension  36 , which engages a corresponding notch  38  in the locking arm  20  to maintain the engagement arms  28 ,  32  in a disengaged position. In an exemplary embodiment, engagement between the extension  36  and the notch  38  can maintain the slips  12  in a disengaged position by preventing movement of the locking arm  20  in the downward direction  27 . In another embodiment, the slips  12 , timing ring  14 , and/or yoke  16  may be otherwise coupled to the handle  26 . Moreover, the engagement arms  28 ,  32  may be biased toward the locking arm  20 , such that when the extension  36  is disengaged from the notch  38 , the engagement arms  28 ,  32  is urged toward, e.g., into engagement with, the locking arm  20 . Such biasing may be effected by resilient, coiled tension springs  39 , as shown. The springs  39  can be engaged with the bolts  23 , the locking arm  20 , or another portion of the apparatus to bias the engagement arms  28 ,  32  toward the locking arm  20 . In other embodiments, biasing force may be supplied by any biasing device, such as one or more leaf springs, torsion springs, compression springs, elastic bands, hydraulic actuators, electromechanical actuators, mechanical linkages, combinations thereof and/or combinations with the illustrated coiled tension springs  39 , or the like. 
     It will be appreciated that while  FIG. 2  depicts an arrangement of components in which the locking arm  20  moves in upward and downward directions  25 ,  27  concurrent with movement of the slips  12  in a generally opposing direction, this is but one example among many contemplated herein. For example, other embodiments may employ gears, biasing members, connectors, etc., such that the locking arm  20  can be configured to move in the same direction as the slips  12  or in any other desired directions when the slips  12  are moved toward or away from engagement with a tubular. 
     Moreover, in an exemplary embodiment, rather than being linearly moveable, the locking arm  20  may be a rotatable gear, configured to rotate according to slip  12  movement. In such an embodiment, the locking arm  20  may be configured to rotate in a first direction when the slips  12  move toward engagement with the tubular and configured to rotate in the opposite direction when the slips  12  move away from engagement with the tubular. As such, the engagement members  28 ,  30  may be configured to allow the rotation in the first direction, but generally prevent rotation in the opposite direction, when engaged. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a partial front view of the exemplary apparatus  2  in an engaged position, according to an embodiment. As shown, the engagement arms  28 ,  32  have been pivoted about the pin connections  33  from the disengaged position shown in  FIG. 2 , such as through movement of the handle  26  and/or use of biasing members  39 , to disengage the extension  36  from the notch  38 . While the depicted apparatus  2  is in the engaged position, the complementary teeth  30  of the first engagement arm  28  are received between at least some of the first set of teeth  22  of the locking arm  20 , and the complementary teeth  34  of the second engagement arm  32  are received between at least some of the second set of teeth  24  of the locking arm  20 . A connecting member  40 , as referenced above, is shown engaged to both the first and second engagement arms  28 ,  32  via bolt or pin connections  35 , for example, such that movement of the first engagement arm  28  between engaged and disengaged positions precipitates movement of the second engagement arm  32  between engaged and disengaged positions. 
     The teeth  22 ,  24  of the locking arm  20  may have a generally wedge-shaped and/or triangular profile, having a steeply angled upper surface, and a generally straight and/or slightly angled lower surface. The complementary teeth  30 ,  34  of the engagement anus  28 ,  30  are shown having a generally wedge-shaped and/or triangular profile with a steeply angled lower surface and a generally straight and/or slightly angled upper surface. Thus, while the teeth  30 ,  34  of the engagement arms  28 ,  32  are in contact with the locking arm  20 , movement of the locking arm  20  in the upward direction  25 , corresponding to downward movement of the slips  12  to engage a tubular, is permitted, as the teeth  22 ,  24  of the locking arm  20  slide over the complementary teeth  30 ,  34  of the engagement arms  28 ,  32 . 
     Further, the connecting member  40  may have a groove, slot, or similar elongate orifice  42  at the point of attachment with the first engagement arm  28 , to permit a range of independent movement of the engagement arms  28 ,  32  along the locking min  20  during this movement. For example, the groove  42  can be sized to permit lateral movement of the first engagement arm  28  caused by contact between the complementary teeth  30  thereof and the teeth  22  of the locking arm  20 , without transmitting this movement to the second engagement arm  32 . The groove  42  can also permit movement of the second engagement arm  32  independently of the first engagement arm  28  in a similar manner. 
     While the teeth  30 ,  34  of the engagement arms  28 ,  32  are in contact with the locking arm  20 , movement of the locking arm  20  in the downward direction  27 , corresponding to upward, disengaging movement of the slips  12  relative to the elevator body  10  ( FIG. 1 ) may be limited through abutment between the generally straight and/or slightly angled surfaces of one or more sets of teeth  20 ,  24 ,  30 ,  34 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , while the complementary teeth  30 ,  34  of the engagement arms  28 ,  32  contact the teeth  22 ,  24  of the locking arm  20 , neither set of complementary teeth  30 ,  34  is interlocked with the corresponding teeth  22 ,  24  of the locking arm ( 20 ), e.g., the generally straight and/or slightly angled surfaces of the teeth are not shown in abutment. Thus, a small downward movement of the locking arm  20  may be allowed before the second set of teeth  24  are interlocked with the complementary teeth  34  of the second engagement arm  32 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a partial front view of the exemplary apparatus  2  of  FIGS. 2 and 3 , according to an embodiment, in an interlocking position after the allowed small downward movement of the locking arm  20 , corresponding to a small upward movement of the slips  12  ( FIG. 1 ). The teeth  34  of the second engagement arm  32  are interlocked with the second set of teeth  24  of the locking arm  20 , such that the generally straight and/or slightly angled lower surfaces of the second set of teeth  24  abut the generally straight and/or slightly angled upper surfaces of the complementary teeth  34 , thereby preventing further movement of the locking arm  20  in the downward direction  27 . While the specific point along the locking arm  20  contacted by the engagement arms  28 ,  32  may vary depending on the dimensions of the elevator  1 , the slips  12 , and/or the tubular (not shown), it should be noted that the maximum distance the locking arm  20  travels before achieving an interlocked position with one of the engagement arms  28 ,  32 , as shown in  FIG. 4 , may depend upon the spacing between the teeth  22 ,  24 ,  30 ,  34 . 
     Moreover, the first set of teeth  22  may be longitudinally offset (i.e., staggered) with respect to the second set of teeth  24 . For example, the second set of teeth  24  may be positioned below the corresponding teeth on the first set of teeth  22  by a distance of about one-half the pitch (i.e., the distance between corresponding points of two adjacent teeth) of the teeth  22  and/or  24 . In a specific example, the teeth  22 ,  24  may have a pitch of about 0.5 inches, and the second set of teeth  24  may be offset from the first set of teeth  22  by about 0.25 inches. In other exemplary embodiments, the offset distance may range from a low of ⅕, about ¼, or about ⅓ of the pitch to a high of about ¾, about ⅘, or about of the pitch. Alternatively or additionally, in another embodiment, the first and second engagement members  28 ,  32  may be longitudinally offset, such that the teeth  30 ,  34  thereof are likewise offset. 
     With the engagement arms  28 ,  32  in the engaged position, a selected maximum distance or end range may be provided for downward movement of the locking arm  20  relative to the engagement arms  28 ,  32  before one of the sets of teeth  22 ,  24  becomes interlocked with the corresponding set of complementary teeth  30 ,  34 . For example, the selected distance may be approximately one-half the pitch of the teeth  22  and/or  24  (e.g., 0.25 inches). Thus, through use of two sets of vertically offset teeth  22 ,  24 , the permitted movement of the locking arm  20  may be limited in a manner substantially similar to the movement that would be permitted were a single set of teeth provided with closer spacing. The larger pitch allowed, however, enables the teeth  22 ,  24 ,  30 ,  34  to be thicker and thus of a more robust construction. Although the depicted embodiment includes two engagement arms  28 ,  32  adapted for engagement with two corresponding sets of teeth  22 ,  24  being offset by a selected distance, the apparatus  2  may include any number of engagement arms, including a single engagement arm, with the teeth having any desired pitch and, in multiple engagement arm embodiments, with any desired offset, including no offset, between the engagement arms. 
     In exemplary operation, the apparatus  2  is actuated, such as through use of the handle  26 , removing the extension  36  from the notch  38  and causing at least one engagement arm  28 ,  32  (e.g., both) to contact the locking arm  20 . The slips  12  can be lowered into the elevator body  10  before actuating the apparatus, after actuating the apparatus, or simultaneously therewith. In an exemplary embodiment, engagement between the extension  36  and the notch  38  can retain the slips  12  in a raised position, e.g., through the attachment of the slips  12  to the locking arm  20  via the timing ring  14  and yoke  16 . Independent of the time at which the apparatus  2  is actuated, downward movement of the slips  12  into the elevator body  10  to engage a tubular may be permitted due to the shape of the teeth  22 ,  24 ,  30 ,  34 , which may be adapted to allow movement of the locking arm  20  in an upward direction  25  relative to the engagement arms  28 ,  32 . Should upward movement of the slips  12  be attempted while the apparatus  2  is engaged, the slips  12  may be permitted to move a small distance away from the elevator body  10 , causing the locking arm  20  to travel in the downward direction  27  until the one or more sets of teeth  22 ,  24  along the locking arm  20  are interlocked with complementary teeth  30 ,  34  of one or more engagement arms  28 ,  32 . This interlocking engagement prevents further movement of the locking arm  20 , preventing further movement of the slips  12 . 
     In an embodiment, the permitted movement of the slips  12  may not be sufficient for the slips  12  to drop the shaft (i.e., a generally constant diameter portion of the tubular extending from or to a radially-protruding collar, or between two radially-protruding collars). In another embodiment, the movement of the slips  12  may allow the slips  12  to drop the shaft of the tubular; however, the embodied apparatus  2  can limit upward movement of the slips  12  to a distance insufficient to permit the collar of the tubular from passing through the bore  11  of the elevator body  10 . Thus, the collar of a released tubular may impact the upper surface of the slips  12 , resetting the slips  12  into the elevator body  10 . Accordingly, this may enable the slips  12  to again engage the tubular, thereby transferring the weight of the tubular string to the elevator  1 . In still another embodiment, the slips  12  may be configured to engage a collar of the tubular during normal operation. As such, the radially-outward movement of the slips  12  allowed by the apparatus  2  may be insufficient for the slips  12  to release and fit over the collar. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of an elevator  1  with the exemplary apparatus  2  coupled to the elevator body  10 , and being disposed in an engaged position. The slips  12  may also be in an engaged or lowered position to engage a tubular (not shown). The timing ring  14  may be coupled to the slips  12  to enable movement thereof. The yoke  16  may be engaged with the timing ring  14  to enable manual raising of the slips  12  and to provide a point of attachment with the locking arm  20  of the apparatus  2  via the depicted pin  19  or a similar manner of engagement. 
     The engagement arms  28 ,  32  are shown in the engaged position relative to the locking arm  20 , as described above with reference to  FIG. 4 . In the engaged position, the complementary teeth  30  of the first engagement arm  28  contact the first set of teeth  22  of the locking arm  20 , and the complementary teeth  34  of the second engagement arm  32  contact the second set of teeth  24  of the locking arm  20 . When the apparatus  2  is engaged as shown, movement of the locking awl  20  in an upward direction, corresponding to movement of the slips  12  downward into the elevator body  10  for engagement with a tubular will be permitted, while movement of the locking arm  20  in a downward direction, corresponding to movement of the slips  12  upward relative to the elevator body  10 , is limited through engagement between abutting sets of teeth  22 ,  24 ,  30 ,  34 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of the elevator  1  and apparatus  2 , with the apparatus and the slips  12  of the elevator  1  in a disengaged position. Specifically, the timing ring  14  and slips  12  are shown in a raised position to permit passage of tubulars through the elevator body  10 , while the yoke  16  and locking arm  20  are shown in a lowered position. The engagement arms  28 ,  32  are shown, connected by the connecting arm  40 , and pivoted such that the complementary teeth  30 ,  34  do not contact the locking arm  20 , thus permitting movement of the locking arm  20  in both upward and downward directions. The extension  36 , ( FIG. 5 ) can be engaged with the notch  38  ( FIG. 5 ) to secure the locking arm  20  and consequently, the slips  12  in a fixed position. Actuation of the handle  26  can be used to remove the extension from the notch, thereby pivoting the engagement arms  28 ,  32  into contact with the locking arm  20  and permitting the locking arm  20  to move upward as the slips  12  move downward into the elevator body  10  for engagement with a tubular. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method  100  for limiting movement of slips of an elevator relative to the elevator. The method  100  may proceed by operation of the elevator  1  and/or the apparatus  2  described above and may thus be best understood with reference thereto. The method  100  includes moving the slips into engagement with a tubular, as at  102 . Moving the slips may require moving a locking arm therewith, as at  104 . The method  100  further includes engaging the locking arm with a first engagement member, as at  106 . The engagement at  106  between the locking arm and the first engagement member permits movement of the locking arm in a first direction and provides an end range for movement of the locking arm in a second direction. This limits movement of at least one of the slips relative to the elevator. 
     The method  100  may further include abutting the first plurality of teeth of the locking arm with the teeth of the first engagement member, as at  108 . Additionally, the engaging at  106  may also include engaging teeth of the first engagement member with one or more of a first plurality of teeth of the locking arm. In an exemplary embodiment, the method  100  may also include engaging a second plurality of teeth of the locking arm with teeth of a second engagement member. As such, the abutting at  108  may proceed while the teeth of the second engagement member are at least partially disengaged from the second plurality of teeth of the locking arm, with the first and second pluralities of teeth being longitudinally offset. The method  100  may also include actuating an actuation member coupled with the first engagement member to move the engagement member from the disengaged position into the engaged position. 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus to limit movement of gripping members relative to an elevator. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes a locking arm coupled to the gripping members, the locking arm having a set of teeth disposed longitudinally thereon, and a first engagement arm having a first set of complimentary teeth configured to engage with the set of teeth of the locking arm. In one or more embodiments, the first engagement arm may be moveable between a disengaged position, in which the first engagement arm and the locking arm may be relatively moveable, and an engaged position, in which the first engagement arm may allow the locking arm to move in a first direction but may prevent the locking arm from moving in a second direction by more than a selected distance. In one or more embodiments, the teeth of the locking arm may engage the first set of complimentary teeth of the first engagement arm when the first engagement arm is in the engaged position. 
     Further, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus to grip a tubular. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes an annular body having a bore formed therethrough, in which the bore is configured to receive the tubular, a timing ring disposed within the annular body such that the timing ring may be movable axially within the bore of the annular body, the timing ring having a locking arm formed thereon, a plurality of slips engaged with the timing ring, the plurality of slips being moveable radially and axially between a disengaged position and an engaged position, and a first engagement arm configured to engage with the locking arm. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of slips and the tubular may be relatively moveable in the disengaged position, and the plurality of slips may be engaged with the tubular in the engaged position. In one or more embodiments, the first engagement arm may be movable between a disengaged position, in which the first engagement arm and the locking arm may be relatively moveable, and an engaged position, in which the first engagement arm may allow the locking arm to move in a downward direction but restrains the locking arm from moving in an upward direction by more than a selected distance. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , an elevator  801  according to one or more embodiments is shown. In one or more embodiments, the elevator  801  may include a generally annular elevator body  810  having a longitudinal bore  811  formed therethrough to receive a tubular (not shown). The elevator  801  may have one or more gripping members or slips  812  disposed within the longitudinal bore  811  of the elevator body  810 . The slips  812  may engage and disengage the tubular within the longitudinal bore  811  of the elevator body  810 . Each of the slips  812  may include a body and/or retainer, which may include teeth, marking gripping surfaces, non-marking gripping surfaces, shoulders, combinations thereof, or may receive an insert including such teeth, surface, and/or shoulders for engagement with the tubular. 
     In one or more embodiments, the slips  812  may be moveable radially and/or longitudinally in the bore  811 . For example, the slips  812  may be movable between a lowered, engaged position, in which the slips  812  may engage a tubular, and a raised, disengaged position, in which the slips  812  may allow independent movement between the elevator  801  and the tubular. 
     For example, an interior surface of the elevator body  810 , with which the slips  812  may be coupled, may be a tapered surface. For example, in one or more embodiments, the interior surface of the elevator body  810  defining the longitudinal bore  811  may be tapered inward. As such, in one or more embodiments, the slips  812  may be disposed against the tapered surface, which may cause the slips  812  to move radially outward as the slips  812  are moved axially upward relative to the elevator body  810 . Similarly, in one or more embodiments, the tapered surface may cause the slips  812  to move radially inward as the slips  812  are moved axially downward relative to the elevator body  810 . 
     Further, in one or more embodiments, the interior surface of the elevator body  810  is not limited to necessarily being a tapered surface. Instead, in one or more embodiments, the interior surface of the elevator body  810 , with which the slips  812  may be coupled, may be a non-tapered surface, and one or more surfaces of the slips  812  coupled to the inner surface of the elevator body  810  may comprise a taper. For example, in one or more embodiments, each of the slips  812  may comprise a generally wedge-shaped and/or triangular profile. As such, in one or more embodiments, the tapered surface of the slips  812  may be disposed against the non-tapered interior surface of the elevator body  810 , which may cause the slips  812  to move radially outward as the slips  812  are moved axially upward relative to the elevator body  810 . Similarly, in one or more embodiments, a tapered surface of the slips  812  may cause the slips  812  to move radially inward as the slips  812  are moved axially downward relative to the elevator body  810 . 
     Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the interior surface of the elevator body  810  defining the longitudinal bore  811  may be tapered inward, and a surface of the slips  812  coupled to the inner surface of the elevator body  810  may comprise a tapered surface. For example, in one or more embodiments, each of the slips  812  may be generally wedge-shaped and/or have a triangular profile. In one or more embodiments, the slips  812  may be moved between the engaged and disengaged positions manually or through any remote, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical devices and methods. 
     Further, the elevator  801  may also include a timing ring  814  coupled to the slips  812 , such that movement of the timing ring  814  moves the slips  812 . In one or more embodiments, the timing ring  814  may be directly connected to each of the slips  812  such that movement of the timing ring  814  (e.g., in an upward or downward axial direction relative to the elevator body  810 ) may be directly translated to the slips  812 . The timing ring  814  may in turn be coupled to a yoke  816 , which may be manually, remotely, etc. manipulated to raise and/or lower the timing ring  814  relative to the elevator body  810 , thereby raising and/or lowering the slips  812 . Further, as shown, the yoke  816  may also include a yoke crossbar  851  and a receptacle  850  configured to receive an elongate member (not shown). In one or more embodiments, the elongate member may be disposed within the receptacle  850 , and the elongate member may be used to move the yoke  816 , e.g., in a downward direction (e.g., manually). However, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, in one or more embodiments, the yoke  816  may be moved without the use of the elongate member disposed within the receptacle  850 . Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body  810  may also include a slip release arm  842  and a release bar  846 , which will be described in further detail below. 
     The timing ring  814  may be of a generally annular shape, and a locking arm  820  may be formed on the timing ring  814 . The locking arm  820  may include one or more sets of teeth. For example, as shown in  FIG. 8 , a set of teeth  822  is disposed on an outer longitudinal side of the locking arm  820 . In addition, the elevator  801  may include an engagement arm  828  configured to engage with the locking arm  820  such that movement of the timing ring  814  in a direction that engages the slips  812  (e.g., a downward direction relative to the elevator body  810 ) is permitted, and movement of the timing ring  814  in a direction that disengages the slips  812  (e.g., an upward direction relative to the elevator body  810 ) is limited, as will be discussed further below. For example, in one or more embodiments, engagement between the locking arm  820  and the engagement arm may allow downward movement of the slips  812  and the timing ring  814  (e.g., into a lowered, engaged position) relative to the elevator body  810 , while preventing upward movement of the slips  812  and the timing ring  814  (e.g., into a raised, disengaged position) relative to the elevator body  810 . The engagement arm may also be referred to as a contacting, gripping, and/or movement-limiting member. 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, there may be included a second engagement arm coupled to the first engagement arm, the second engagement arm having a second set of complimentary teeth. In one or more embodiments, the second set of complimentary teeth of the second engagement arm may be longitudinally offset from the first set of complimentary teeth of the first engagement arm by a predetermined distance that is less than the length of a pitch of the first set of complimentary teeth, of the second set of complimentary teeth, or of both. Further, in one or more embodiments, the second set of complimentary teeth of the second engagement arm may be longitudinally offset from the first set of complimentary teeth of the first engagement arm by a distance of from ⅕ to ⅚ of a pitch of the first set of complimentary teeth, of the second set of complimentary teeth, or of both. 
     Further, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be directed to a method to engage and/or disengage a tubular member. The method may include moving a plurality of slips from a disengaged position into an engaged position, in which the plurality of slips are coupled to a timing ring, the timing ring having a locking arm formed thereon, and engaging the locking arm with a first engagement arm, allowing movement of the plurality of slips in a downward direction towards the engaged position and limiting movement of the plurality of slips in an upward direction towards the disengaged position. 
     According to one or more aspects, engaging the locking arm with the first engagement arm may include engaging a first set of complimentary teeth of the first engagement arm with a set of teeth formed on the locking arm. The method may also include engaging a second set of complimentary teeth of a second engagement arm with the set of teeth formed on the locking arm, the second engagement arm coupled to the first engagement arm, and engaging the set of teeth of the locking arm with the first set of complimentary teeth of the first engagement arm, while the second set of complimentary teeth of the second engagement arm are at least partially disengaged from the set of teeth of the locking arm, the first set of complimentary teeth and the second set of complimentary teeth being longitudinally offset. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 9A-9C , multiple views of an elevator  901  having a plurality of slips  912  in an engaged position are shown in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. For example,  FIG. 9A  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the elevator  901  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 9B  illustrates a close-up view of a first engagement arm  928  and a second engagement arm  932  engaged with a locking arm  920  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 9C  illustrates a perspective view of the elevator  901  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
     As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, an engagement arm  928  may engage with the locking arm  920 , which may be formed on a timing ring  914 , such that movement in a direction that engages the slips  912  is allowed (e.g., a downward direction relative to a elevator body  910  of the elevator  901 ), but movement in a direction that disengages the slips  912  is limited (e.g., an upward direction relative to the elevator body  901 ). As shown in  FIG. 9C , the elevator  901  may further include ears  913  and stabilizing members  915  for engaging bails (not shown) and orienting and/or moving the elevator  901 . 
     In one or more embodiments, the engagement arm may include one or more engagement arms  928 ,  932 , which may be coupled together. In one or more embodiments, the first engagement arm  928  may be directly coupled to the second engagement arm  932  such that the first engagement arm  928  and the second engagement arm  932  are in direct contact. However, in one or more embodiments, a gap or space may exist between the first engagement arm  928  and the second engagement arm  932 . For example, in one or more embodiments, a disengagement member  926  may be disposed between the first engagement arm  928  and the second engagement arm  932 . As shown, in  FIG. 9B , a pin  931  may be disposed through both the first engagement arm  928  and the second engagement arm  932 , coupling the first engagement arm  928  to the second engagement arm  932 . In one or more embodiments, each of the first engagement arm  928  and the second engagement arm  932  may each have an elongate slot (not shown) formed therethrough, through which the pin  931  may be disposed. The elongate slot formed through each of the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may allow the first engagement arm  928  to be engaged with the locking arm, while the second engagement arm  932  is at least partially disengaged from the locking arm, or vice versa. 
     In one or more embodiments, the first engagement arm  928  may include a first set of complementary teeth  930 . Further, in one or more embodiments, the second engagement arm  932  may include a second set of complementary teeth  934 . The complimentary teeth  930 ,  934  of the first engagement arm  928  and the second engagement arm  932  may be formed and configured to engage a set of teeth  922  of the locking arm  920 . 
     In one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may have staggered tooth profiles to allow minimal travel of the timing ring  914  and the slips  912  in the disengagement direction (e.g., in an upward direction). For example, the second set of complimentary teeth  934  formed on the second engagement arm  932  may be positioned below the corresponding teeth of the first set of complimentary teeth  930  formed on the first engagement arm  928  by a distance (e.g., the distance between corresponding points of two adjacent teeth) of about one-half the pitch of the complimentary teeth  930 ,  934 . For example, the complimentary teeth  930 ,  934  may have a pitch of about 0.5 inches, and the second set of complimentary teeth  934  may be offset from the first set of complimentary teeth  930  by about 0.25 inches. Further, in one or more embodiments, the offset distance may range from a low of about ⅕, about ¼, or about ⅓ of the pitch to a high of about ¾, about ⅘, or about of the pitch. 
     Further, in one or more embodiments, the set of teeth  922  of the locking arm  920  may have a generally wedge-shaped and/or triangular profile, having an angled lower surface, and a generally straight and/or angled upper surface. The complementary teeth  930 ,  934  of the first and second engagement arms  928 ,  932  are shown having a corresponding, generally wedge-shaped and/or triangular profile with a angled upper surface and a generally straight and/or slightly angled lower surface. In one or more embodiments, the complimentary sets of teeth  930 ,  934  of the first and second engagement arms  928 ,  932  may include rounded or beveled tip sections. In other words, in one or more embodiments, a tip section of the complimentary sets of teeth  930 ,  934  of the first and second engagement arms  928 ,  932  are not limited to being necessarily wedge-shaped or having a triangular profile. Thus, while the complimentary sets of teeth  930 ,  934  of the engagement arms  928 ,  932  are in contact with the locking arm  920 , movement of the locking arm  920  in the downward direction, corresponding to downward movement of the slips  912  to engage a tubular, may be permitted, as the set of teeth  922  of the locking arm  920  may slide over the complementary teeth  930 ,  934  of the engagement arms  928 ,  932  (e.g., due to the orientation and/or shape of the set of teeth  922  of the locking arm  920  as well as the orientation and/or shape of the complimentary sets of teeth  930 ,  934  of the engagement arms  928 ,  932 ). 
     The engagement arms  928 ,  932  may be pivotally coupled to the elevator body  910 , such that the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may selectively engage with or disengage from the locking arm  920 . Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may be coupled to the elevator body  910  using a pivot pin  955  or the like. In one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  928 ,  932  can be linearly moveable, rather than, or in addition to, being pivotally movable. In other words, in one or more embodiments, each of the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may be moved away from the locking arm  920  in a linear fashion (e.g., without pivoting) to disengage the engagement arms  928 ,  932  from the locking arm  920 . Further, in one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may pivot about the pivot pin  955 , and the engagement anus  928 ,  932  may be disengaged from the locking arm  920  by pivoting the engagement arms  928 ,  932  about the pivot pin  955  such that the corresponding sets of teeth  930 ,  934  of the engagement arms  928 ,  932  are disengaged from the set of teeth  922  of the locking arm  920 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 9B , in one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  928 ,  932  may be biased towards an engaged position with the locking arm  920  by torsion springs  929 ,  939 , respectively. In other words, in one or more embodiments, the torsion springs  929 ,  939  may be used to bias the engagement arms  928 ,  932  towards an engaged position with the locking arm  920  such that the timing ring  914  and the slips  912  may be allowed to move in a downward direction towards the engaged position, but may be limited in moving in an upward direction towards the disengaged position. 
     One or more aspects of the present disclosure may also include a disengagement member coupled to the first engagement arm, and a plate disposed on an outer surface of the elevator, in which a portion of the plate configured to engage with a portion of the disengagement member, and in which the disengagement member is engaged with the plate when the first engagement arm is in the disengaged position. 
     Further, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may include a yoke pivotably connected to the annular body, the yoke coupled to the timing ring such that downward movement of the yoke causes upward movement of the timing ring and of the plurality of slips towards the disengaged position. One or more aspects of the present disclosure may include a receptacle formed through the yoke, the receptacle configured to receive an elongate member. 
     A method to engage/disengage a tubular member, according to aspects disclosed herein, may also include disengaging the first engagement arm from the locking arm, allowing the plurality of slips to move upward into the disengaged position. Further, disengaging the first engagement arm from the locking arm may include moving a disengagement member in an outward direction, away from the locking arm, wherein moving the disengagement member in the outward direction disengages the first engagement atm from the locking arm, allowing the plurality of slips to move upward into the disengaged position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10A-10D , multiple views of an elevator  1001  having engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  in a disengaged position while a plurality of slips  1012  are in an engaged position are shown in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. For example,  FIG. 10A  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the elevator  1001  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 10B  illustrates a close-up view of a first engagement arm  1028  and a second engagement arm  1032  disengaged with a locking arm  1020  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 10C  illustrates a perspective view of the elevator  1001  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 10D  illustrates a close-up view of a disengagement member  1026 , a plate  1027 , and a yoke  1016  disposed on the elevator  1001  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
     In one or more embodiments, the disengagement member  1026  may be coupled to the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  such that engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may be moved to a disengaged position with the locking arm  1020  when the disengagement member  1026  is pulled away from an elevator body  1010  of the elevator  1001  and engaged with a plate  1027 . For example, in one or more embodiments, the disengagement member  1026  may be coupled to the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  such that moving the disengagement member  1026  away from the locking arm  1020  causes the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  to move away from (and disengage from) the locking arm  1020 . In other words, in one or more embodiments, moving the disengagement member  1026  away from the locking arm  1020  may cause both a first set of complimentary teeth  1030  of the first engagement arm  1028  and a second set of complimentary teeth  1034  of the second engagement arm  1032  to disengage from a set of teeth  1022  of the locking arm  1020 . In one or more embodiments, disengaging the complimentary sets of teeth  1030 ,  1034  of the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  from the set of teeth  1022  of the locking arm  1020  may allow a timing ring  1014  coupled to the slips  1012 , and the slips  1012  themselves, to move in an upward direction relative to the elevator body  1010  towards a disengaged position. 
     In one or more embodiments, a pin  1031  may be disposed through the first engagement arm  1028 , the disengagement member  1026 , and the second engagement arm  1032 , coupling the first engagement arm  1028 , the disengagement member  1026 , and the second engagement arm  1032  to each other. 
     Further, in one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may be pivotally coupled to the elevator body  1010 , such that the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may selectively engage with or disengage from the locking arm  1020 . Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may be coupled to the elevator body  1010  using a pivot pin  1055  or the like. In one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  can be linearly moveable, rather than, or in addition to, being pivotally movable. In other words, in one or more embodiments, each of the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may be moved away from the locking arm  1020  in a linear fashion (e.g., without pivoting) to disengage the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  from the locking arm  1020 . Further, in one or more embodiments, the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may pivot about the pivot pin  1055 , and the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  may be disengaged from the locking arm  1020  by pivoting the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  about the pivot pin  1055  such that the corresponding sets of teeth  1030 ,  1034  of the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  are disengaged from the set of teeth  1022  of the locking arm  1020  (e.g., by moving the disengagement member  1026  away from the locking arm  1020  and away from the elevator body  1010 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 10D , in one or more embodiments, a plate  1027  may be disposed on an outer surface of the elevator body  1010 . In one or more embodiments, the plate  1027  may have a groove  1043  formed thereon that is configured to engage a groove  1041  formed on the disengagement member  1026 , as shown in  FIGS. 10B and 10D . When the disengagement member  1026  is engaged with the plate  1027  (e.g., when the groove  1041  of the disengagement member  1026  is engaged with the groove  1043  of the plate  1027 ), the locking arm  1020 , the timing ring  1014 , and the slips  1012  may be free to move in an upward direction toward a disengaged position. In one or more embodiments, engagement between the disengagement member  1026  and the plate  1027  may allow the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  to remain disengaged from the locking arm  1020  such that the complimentary sets of teeth  1030 ,  1034  of the engagement arms  1028 ,  1032  are disengaged from the set of teeth  1022  of the locking arm  1020 . The slips  1012  may be raised to a disengaged position by inserting an elongate member (not shown) into a receptacle  1050  on the yoke  1016  and pushing in a downward direction on the elongate member. In one or more embodiments, the elongate member may be a round bar or any other elongate tubular member known in the art. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10A , the elevator  1001  may include an arm  1060 . In one or more embodiments, the arm  1060  may be angled and may be coupled to a movable portion of the elevator  1001 , such as a yoke  1016 . In one or more embodiments, the arm  1060  may include a pin  1058  disposed thereon, such as on a distal end of the arm  1060 . As will be discussed further below, in one or more embodiments, the yoke  1016  may be moved in a downward direction, which may raise the timing ring  1014  and the slips  1012 . 
     For example, as shown, a portion of the timing ring  1014  may include a slot  1062  formed thereon, the slot  1062  configured to receive the pin  1058  of the arm  1060 . In one or more embodiments, the pin  1058  of the arm  1060  is engaged with and slidable within the slot  1062  formed on the timing ring  1014 . As such, in one or more embodiments, moving the yoke  1016  in a downward direction (e.g., moving a distal end of the yoke  1016  in a downward direction relative to the elevator body  1010 ) may cause the pin  1058  of the arm  1060  to slide within the slot  1062  of the timing ring  1014  (e.g., towards the locking arm  1020  formed on the timing ring  1014 ). Further, in one or more embodiments, moving the yoke in the downward direction may cause the distal end of the arm  1060  having the pin  1058  disposed thereon to be raised in an upward direction (e.g., by way of the angle formed in the arm  1060 ). In one or more embodiments, raising the distal end of the arm  1060  having the pin  1058  disposed thereon may cause the timing ring  1014  to be raised in the upward direction because the pin  1058  is engaged with and slidable within the slot  1062  faulted on the timing ring  1014 . Furthermore, raising the timing ring  1014  in the upward direction may cause the slips  1012  to be raised in the upward direction, which may cause the slips  1012  to disengage from a tubular member (not shown) disposed within the elevator  1001  (e.g., causing the slips  1012  to be moved into the disengaged position). 
     One or more aspects of the present disclosure may include a slip release arm pivotably connected to the annular body, the slip release arm configured to receive the yoke when the slips are in the disengaged position such that the yoke and the slips are locked in the disengaged position, a slip locking member pivotably connected to the slip release arm, the slip locking member configured to engage with a portion of the annular body, in which engagement between the slip locking member and the annular body prevents the slip release arm from releasing the yoke and prevents the slips from moving into the engaged position. One or more aspects of the present disclosure may also include a release bar pivotably connected to the slip release arm and engaged with the slip locking member, in which moving the release bar to a disengaged position disengages the slip locking member from the annular body and allows the slip release arm to release the yoke and allows the slips to move into the engaged position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11A-11D , multiple views of an elevator  1101  having a plurality of slips  1112  in a disengaged position that are locked in the disengaged position are shown in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. For example,  FIG. 11A  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the elevator  1101  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 11B  illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the elevator  1101  having a slip release arm  1142 , a slip locking member  1144 , and a release bar  1146  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 11C  illustrates a perspective view of the elevator  1101  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 11D  illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the elevator  1101  having a yoke  1116  including a yoke crossbar  1151 , the slip release arm  1142 , and a disengagement member  1126  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 11A , the elevator  1101  includes a plurality of slips  1112  and a timing ring  1114  coupled to the plurality of slips  1112  disposed within an elevator body  1110  of the elevator  1101 . As shown, the timing ring  1114  includes a locking arm  1120  configured to engage with at least one engagement arm  1128 . As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, the yoke  1116  may be moveable with respect to the elevator body  1110  and may be used to move the slips in an upward direction to a disengaged position. 
     In one or more embodiments, the yoke  1116  may be pivotably connected to the elevator body  1110  such that as the yoke  1116  is moved in one direction, the slips  1112  are moved in the opposite direction. For example, in one or more embodiments, as the yoke  1116  is moved in a downward direction relative to the elevator body  1110 , the slips  1112  may in turn be moved in an upward direction relative to the elevator body  1110 . In one or more embodiments, as the yoke  1116  is moved in the downward direction, the disengagement member  1126  may be disengaged from the plate  1127  by way of a yoke crossbar  1151 . In other words, the yoke crossbar  1151  may be used to disengage the disengagement member  1126  from the plate  1127  by forcing the disengagement member  1126  in a downward direction such that the groove (e.g., the groove  1041  shown in  FIGS. 10B and 10D ) of the disengagement member  1126  no longer is engaged with the groove (e.g., the groove  1043  shown in  FIG. 10D ) of the plate  1127 . Once the disengagement member  1126  is disengaged from the plate  1127 , the engagement arms (one shown:  1128 ) may be biased towards the elevator body  1110  and the locking arm  1120  into an engaged position against a flat portion  1123  of the locking arm  1120 , which may be formed on a portion of the locking arm  1120  below the set of teeth of the locking arm  1120 . 
     Once the engagement arm  1128  is engaged with the flat portion  1123  of the locking arm  1120 , the set of teeth of the locking arm  1120  may no longer be engaged with teeth formed on the engagement arm  1128 . As such, the locking arm  1120  may be movable in both an upward and a downward direction relative to the elevator body  1110  and relative to the engagement arm  1128  because engagement between the teeth of the locking arm  1120  and the teeth of the engagement arm  1128  no longer limits relative movement of the locking arm  1120  in one direction (e.g., in the upward direction). In other words, engagement between the teeth of the engagement arm  1128  and the flat portion  1123  of the locking arm  1120  does not limit movement of the locking arm  1120  relative to the elevator body  1110  and relative to the engagement arm  1128  in one direction (e.g., in the upward direction). 
     In one or more embodiments, a slip release arm  1142  may be moved away from the elevator body  1110  and may engage with the yoke crossbar  1151  when the slips  1112  are fully raised and have reached the disengaged position. In one or more embodiments, a biasing member may be coupled to the slip release arm  1142 , which may be used to move the slip release arm  1142  away from the elevator body  1110  when the slips  1112  are moved into the disengaged position. Further, as shown in  FIG. 11D , a groove  1152  may be formed along a side portion of the slip release arm  1142 . In one or more embodiments, the groove  1152  of the slip release arm  1142  may be configured to engage with the yoke crossbar  1151  and may lock the timing ring  1114  and the slips  1112  in the disengaged position. For example, as shown in  FIG. 11C , the yoke crossbar  1151  of the yoke  1116  is engaged with the groove of the slip release arm  1142 , which may lock the timing ring  1114  and the slips  1112  (shown in  FIG. 11A ) in a raised, disengaged position. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 11D , in one or more embodiments, the slip release arm  1142  may be pivotably connected to the elevator body  1110  by way of a pivot pin  1156  such that the slip release arm  1142  may pivot with respect to the elevator body  1110 . Further, as shown in  FIG. 11B , in one or more embodiments, a slip locking member  1144  may be pivotably disposed on the slip release arm  1142  by way of a pivot pin  1157  such that the slip locking member  1144  may pivot with respect to the slip release arm  1142 . The slip locking member  1144  may move into a locking position (e.g., the slip locking member  1144  may fall into the locking position) when the slips  1112  have reached the disengaged position. In one or more embodiments, the slip locking member  1144  may prevent the slips  1112  from setting accidentally when the slip locking member  1144  is in the locked position because the slip locking member  1144  engages a portion of the slip locking member  1144  against a portion of the elevator body  1110  when the slip locking member  1144  is in the locked position. Engagement of the slip locking member  1144  with the portion of the elevator body  1110 , as shown in  FIG. 11A , may prevent the slip release arm  1142  from moving towards the elevator body  1110  because the slip locking member  1144  may also be engaged with the slip release  1142  and may hold the slip release arm  1142  at a fixed position relative to the elevator body  1110 . 
     In addition, in one or more embodiments, a release bar  1146  may be pivotably disposed on the slip release arm  1142  using the pivot pin  1157 , the release bar  1146  coupled to the slip locking member  1144  such that moving the release bar  1146  towards the slip release arm may move the slip locking member  1144  upward to an unlocked position. For example, the release bar  1146  may include a protrusion (not shown) extending from the release bar  1146  at about 90 degrees and configured to engage a bottom surface of the slip locking member  1144 . In one or more embodiments, the protrusion engaging the slip locking member  1144  may cause the slip locking member  1144  to pivot about the pivot pin  1157  as the release bar  1146  is pivoted about the pivot pin  1157 . Moving the slip locking member  1144  upward to the unlocked position may cause the slip locking member  1144  to disengage from the portion of the elevator body  1110 , which may allow the timing ring  1114  and the slips  1112  to move back into the engaged position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12A-12C , multiple views of an elevator  1201  having a plurality of slips  1212  in a disengaged position that are released to be set in an engaged position are shown in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. For example, FIG.  12 A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the elevator  1201  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 12B  illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the elevator  1201  having a slip release arm  1242 , a slip locking member  1244 , and a release bar  1246  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.  FIG. 12C  illustrates a perspective view of the elevator  1201  in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12A , the elevator  1201  includes a plurality of slips  1212  and a timing ring  1214  coupled to the plurality of slips  1212  disposed within an elevator body  1210  of the elevator  1201 . As shown, the timing ring  1214  includes a locking arm  1220  configured to engage with at least one engagement arm  1228 . As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, the yoke  1216  may be moveable with respect to the elevator body  1210  and may be used to move the slips in an upward direction to a disengaged position. 
     In one or more embodiments, the slip locking member  1244  may be disengaged by pulling the release bar  1246 , which may be coupled to the slip locking member  1244 , such that when the release bar  1246  is pulled (e.g., towards a distal end of the slip release arm  1242 ), the slip locking member  1244  may be moved upward to an unlocked position. As discussed above, moving the slip locking member  1244  upward to the unlocked position may cause the slip locking member  1244  to disengage from the portion of the elevator body  1210 , which may allow the timing ring  1214  and the slips  1212  to move back into the engaged position. 
     As such, in one or more embodiments, the slips  1212  may be unlocked from the disengaged position by pulling the release bar  1246  against the slip release arm  1242  to move the slip locking member  1244  to an unlocked position. This may allow the slips to be moved in a downward direction towards an engaged position. In one or more embodiments, pushing the slip release arm  1242  towards the elevator body  1210  may unlock the yoke  1216  from the locked position, which may allow the slips  1212  to be moved in the downward direction relative to the elevator body  1210 . As the slips  1212  move in the downward direction relative to the elevator body  1210 , the timing ring  1214  may also move in the downward direction relative to the elevator body  1210  because the timing ring  1214  may be coupled to the slips  1212 . As the timing ring  1214  moves in the downward direction relative to the elevator body  1210 , the locking arm  1220  formed on the timing ring  1214  may move relative to the elevator body  1210  and the engagement arm  1228 . As such, a set of complimentary teeth (one shown:  1230 ) of the engagement arms (one shown:  1228 ) may then re-engage the teeth  1222  of the locking arm  1220  and may allow the timing ring  1214  and the slips  1212  to be lowered towards the engaged position, and may limit upward movement of the timing ring  1214  and the slips  1212  towards the disengaged position. 
     The foregoing has outlined features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.