Patent Publication Number: US-9890591-B2

Title: Top drive module connector and methods

Description:
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Generally, the present disclosure relates to a top drive for boring or penetrating the earth during oil and gas well drilling. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Top drives are used in oil and gas well drilling. Top drives are drilling tools that hang from a traveling block. Top drives include one or more motors to power a drive shaft to which a drill string is attached. Top drives also incorporate spinning and torque-wrench-like capabilities. In addition, top drives have elevators on links for moving joints of tubular or pipes. Increasingly, top drives have been made more modular. Modular top drives typically include multiple modules. Thus, there has been a need in the art to facilitate improved connections between modular components, and the present disclosure aims to provide such top drive module connectors. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion. 
         FIG. 1  is a front view of a top drive, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of two modules, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of three modules, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4-1  is a perspective view of three connected modules, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4-2  is a front view of the three connected modules of  FIG. 4-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4-3  is a side view of the three connected modules of  FIG. 4-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5  is a zone identified in  FIG. 1  shown in greater detail, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded view of first, second, and third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view of connected first, second, third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8-1  is a perspective view of connected and fastened first, second, and third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8-2  is a cross-sectional view of connected and fastened first, second, and third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9-1  is a perspective view of a tool, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9-2  is another perspective view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1  mounted on a second connector, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11-1  is an exploded partial view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1  mounted on a second connector, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11-2  is a cross-sectional view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1  tool mounted on a second connector, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12-1  is a perspective view of a fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12-2  is a side view of a fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12-3  is a side view of fastening pin, rotated about its lateral axis relative to  FIG. 12-2 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12-4  is a front view of a fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  is a side view of a rod of the tool of  FIG. 9-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14-1  is a flow diagram of process for assembling a top drive, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14-2  is a flow diagram of a process for inserting at least one fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 15  is a flow diagram of a process for disassembling a top drive, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     It is to be understood that the following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of various embodiments. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. 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. 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, apparatuses and methods for connecting and disconnecting modules of a top drive are shown and described. The apparatuses and/or methods may be implemented in a modular top drive, such as the modular top drives described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,828,085 and 8,151,909, which are assigned to Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd. and which are each incorporated herein by express reference thereto in their entireties. 
     A top drive may be modular in that one or more components, e.g., main bearing housing, gear box, and pipe handler, are separate modules attached by connectors, which can be quickly swapped in and out of the critical path for various reasons, including without limitation for repair, alternative drilling capabilities, and the like. According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the connectors include a set of first connectors disposed between a main bearing housing and a gear box. The connectors may include a set of second connectors disposed on the gear box. The connectors may include a set of third connectors disposed between the gear box and the pipe handler. Fastening pins may be installed in the connectors to fasten the modules to each other. Although reference is made to a main bearing housing, a gear box, and a pipe handler, it should be understood that the connectors of the present disclosure can be used to connect any two or any three modules together. 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, a set of first connectors, disposed between the main bearing housing and the gear box, is attached to the lower end of the main bearing housing. The gear box includes a set of second connectors, each of which has an opening allowing the insertion of the corresponding first connector. An insertion/removal tool may push a fastening pin through each connector to facilitate fastening of the main bearing housing and the gear box. Features of each connector may assist with azimuth and elevation positioning. 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the set of third connectors, disposed between the gear box and the pipe handler, may be attached to a pipe handler. The gear box includes a set of second connectors, each of which has an opening allowing the insertion of the corresponding first and optional third connectors. An insertion/removal tool may be used to facilitate arranging a fastening pin through each connector to fasten, for example, main bearing housing, gear box, and pipe handler. Features of each connector may assist with azimuth and elevation positioning. 
     According to one or more or more aspects of the present disclosure, the connectors described herein advantageously allow for time savings when removing, installing, or replacing one or more modules of the top drive. When one module of a modular top drive needs to be adjusted/repaired/replaced (e.g., to quickly change gear ratios or replace damaged components), the one module, as opposed to the entire top drive, may be changed out. The connectors between modules described herein provide a quick connect/disconnect arrangement, allowing for more efficient change out of modules. The connectors described herein may also advantageously decrease risk of injury by allowing for fewer human operators in close proximity to the top drive and nearby equipment during module change out. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a front view of a top drive is shown, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Top drive  100  may be described as modular in that it includes a plurality of modules. Top drive  100  may be described as an assembly (i.e., of one or more modules). Top drive  100 , for example, includes first module  120 , second module  140 , and third module  160 . Top drive  100  may include more or fewer modules, and/or other structures, in various embodiments. In  FIG. 1 , modules  120 ,  140 , and  160  are connected. First module  120  may be described as a first module or upper module. According to an exemplary embodiment, first module  120  is a main bearing housing module or core module. Second module  140  may be described as a second module or middle module. According to an exemplary embodiment, second module  140  is a gear box module. Third module  160  may be described as a third module or lower module. According to an exemplary embodiment, third module  160  is a pipe handler module. While “first,” “second,” and “third,” and “upper,” “middle,” and “lower” have been used to describe modules in  FIG. 1 , in various embodiments, the relative orientation and positioning of the individual modules may be different. Any one or all of modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may function other than as a main bearing housing module, gear box module, and pipe handler module. 
     Modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may be connected by one or more connectors as described herein. As shown, zone  500  identifies a location of the top drive where modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  are connected. A closer view of zone  500  is shown in  FIG. 5  and described in more detail in the discussion thereof. According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may be connected in multiple locations. For example, modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may include four sets of connectors and be connected at four locations on top drive  100 . The discussion herein generally describes the features of one set of connectors; it is to be understood that the discussion applies to similar features of the other sets of connectors. In various embodiments, modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may be connected more or fewer times and at different locations.  FIG. 1  shows tool  900 , which is described in more detail herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , a perspective view of two modules is shown, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. First module  120  and second module  140  are shown before modules  120 ,  140  are connected. First module  120  includes a plurality of first connectors  224 . Each of the first connectors  224  may be described as a first fastening member. First module  120  may include, for example, four first connectors  224  (one is not shown in  FIG. 2 ). The first connectors  224  may be distributed around first module  120 . Proximal ends of first connectors  224  may extend from first module  120 . For example, first connectors  224  may be integrally formed with, bolted on, welded on, or otherwise coupled to first module  120 . 
     Second module  140  includes a plurality of second connectors  226 . Each of the second connectors  226  may be described as a second fastening member. Second module  140  may include, for example, four second connectors  226 . Second connectors  226  may be distributed around second module  140 . Second connectors  226  may extend from second module  140 . For example, second connectors  226  may be integrally formed with, bolted on, welded on, or otherwise coupled to second module  140 . According to an exemplary embodiment, first connector  224  and second connector  226  are configured to be removably coupled to connect the first module  120  and second module  140  to each other. In some embodiments, first connector  224  and second connector  226  are components that are placed adjacent to each other when first module  120  and second module  140  are connected. In some embodiments, second connector  226  may include a cavity  228  extending longitudinally therein. Cavity  228  is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the first connector  224  and at least a portion of the third connector  318  ( FIG. 3 ) when modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  are connected. In some embodiments, cavity  228  is a through hole and extends through the entire longitudinal direction from top to bottom of each second connector  226 . In other embodiments, a cavity sufficient to receive at least a portion of first connector  224  and at least a portion of third connector  318  exists at the top and bottom of each second connector  226  even when the cavity is not connected therethrough. Thus, as shown, the plurality of second connectors  228  are arranged and adapted to opposingly connect to the plurality of first connectors  224 . 
     To join first module  120  and second module  140 , first module  120  and/or second module  140  may be moved closer together such that extension member  220  passes through opening  222 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the first module  120  is lowered onto second module  140 . In other embodiments, the modules may be moved closer together via different methods. At least a portion of each first connector  224  also fits into cavity  228  of each opposed second connector  226 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , a perspective view of three modules is shown, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. First module  120  and second module  140  are shown after they have been connected to each other, and third module  160  is shown before it has been connected to the others. Third module  160  includes a plurality of third connectors  318 . Each of the third connectors  318  may be described as a third fastening member. Third module  160  may include, for example, four third connectors  318 . Third connectors  318  may be distributed around third module  160 . Proximal ends of third connectors  318  may extend from third module  160 . For example, third connectors  318  may be integrally formed with, bolted on, welded on, or otherwise coupled to third module  160 . According to an exemplary embodiment, third connector  318  is configured to be removably coupled to at least one of the coupled first connector  224  and the second connector  226 , to connect the first module  120 , second module  140 , and third module  160  to each other. Third module  160  may include support members  316 , which help to anchor and/or stabilize third connectors  318 . 
     To join third module  160  with first module  120  and second module  140 , third module  160  and first module  120 /second module  140  may be moved closer together such that extension member  220  passes through opening  312 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the combined first module  120 /second module  140  is lowered onto third module  160  (or third module  160  is raised towards the combined modules). In other embodiments, the modules may be moved closer together via different methods, such as both being moved towards each other into engagement. In some embodiments, third connector  318  is placed adjacent to at least one of first connector  224  and second connector  226  when first module  120 , second module  140 , and third module  160  are combined. In the depicted embodiment, at least a portion of third connector  318  also fits into cavity  228  of second connector  226  when the cavity  228  extends through the entire longitudinal direction from top to bottom of each second connector  226  (or when a sufficient cavity exists at the top and bottom of each second connector  226  even when the cavity is not connected therethrough). 
     The discussion below generally refers to  FIGS. 4-1, 4-2, 4-3 .  FIG. 4-1  shows a perspective view of three connected modules, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 4-2  shows a front view of the three connected modules of  FIG. 4-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 4-3  shows a side view of the three connected modules of  FIG. 4-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may be connected via first connectors  224 , second connectors  226 , and third connectors  318 . When connected, at least a portion of first connector  224  and third connector  318  are each received in a cavity  228  of second connector  226 .  FIGS. 4-1, 4-2, 4-3  show modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  that are connected at multiple locations of the assembly. In various embodiments, more, fewer, and/or different structures may be added to the assembly shown in  FIGS. 4-1, 4-2, and 4-3  to form top drive  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , a zone identified in  FIG. 1  is shown in greater detail, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Zone  500  is close-up of view of one of the locations of top drive  100  where modules  120 ,  140 , and  160  are connected. A proximal end of first connector  224  may extend from first module  120 . A proximal end of third connector  318  may extend from third module  160 . Distal ends of first connector  224  and third connector  318  may each be received in a cavity  228  of a corresponding second connector  226 . Modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  may be fastened via fastening pins  512 - 1  and  512 - 2 , which are inserted through first connector  224 , second connector  226 , and third connector  318 . According to an exemplary embodiment, fastening pin  512 - 1  may be inserted through first connector  224  and second connector  226  when first module  120  and second module  140  are connected. Fastening pin  512 - 2  may be inserted through first connector  224 , second connector  226 , and third connector  318  when third module  160  is connected with combined first module  120 /second module  140 . Support member  316  may anchor and/or stabilize third connector  318 . Similarly, support member  402  may anchor and/or stabilize first connector  224 . 
     The discussion below generally refers to  FIGS. 6, 7, 8-1, 8-2 .  FIG. 6  is an exploded view of first, second, and third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view of connected first, second, third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 8-1  is a perspective view of connected and fastened first, second, and third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 8-2  is a cross-sectional view of connected and fastened first, second, and third connectors, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , first connector  224  includes a distal end  634 . Distal end  634  may be received in cavity  228  of second connector  226  when the first module  120  and second module  140  are connected. Distal end  634  may include bore  612 - 1  and bore  612 - 2 , which extend laterally therein. Bores  612 - 1 ,  612 - 2  may define a lateral extent inside distal end  634  between apertures on opposite sides of distal end  634 . Two apertures  638 - 1 ,  638 - 2  on one side of distal end  634  are shown in  FIG. 6 . Fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  may be inserted through bores  612 - 1 ,  612 - 2 . 
     Second connector  226  includes a cavity  228  extending longitudinally therethrough. When first module  120  and second module  140  are combined, cavity  228  may receive distal end  634  of first connector  224 . When third module  160  is combined with the modules  120 ,  140 , cavity  228  may additionally receive distal end  636  of third connector  318 . Second connector  226  may include bore  614 - 1  and bore  614 - 2 , which extend laterally therein. Bores  614 - 1 ,  614 - 2  may define a lateral extent inside second connector  226  between apertures on opposite sides of distal end  634 . Two apertures  640 - 1 ,  640 - 2  on one side of second connector  226  are shown in  FIG. 6 . Fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  may be inserted through bores  614 - 1 ,  614 - 2 . 
     Third connector  318  includes distal end  636 . Distal end  636  may be received in cavity  228  of second connector  226  when third module  160  is connected to first module  120  and second module  140 . Distal end  636  may include bore  616 , which extends laterally therein. Bore  616  may define a lateral extent inside distal end  636  between apertures on opposite sides of distal end  636 . One aperture  642  on one side of distal end  636  is shown in  FIG. 6 . Fastening pin  512 - 2  may be inserted through bore  616 . 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, when first module  120  and second module  140  are connected, bore  612 - 1  and bore  614 - 1  align such that they define substantially coextensive spaces. Similarly, aperture  638 - 1  and aperture  640 - 1  align such that the borders of the apertures define at least substantially the same shape. This arrangement is shown, for example, in  FIG. 7  as bore  712 - 1 , which is an aligned bore including bores  612 - 1 ,  614 - 1 . Aperture  720  is an aligned aperture including apertures  638 - 1 ,  640 - 1 . Bores  612 - 1 ,  614 - 1  and apertures  638 - 1 ,  640 - 1  align because at least a portion of first connector  224  (e.g., distal tip  634 ) is received in cavity  228  when first module  120  and second module  140  are connected. (Bores  612 - 2 ,  614 - 2 , as well as apertures  638 - 2 ,  640 - 2  also align when first module  120  and second module  140  are connected. Their alignment is discussed below.) Fastening pin  512 - 1  may be inserted through bore  712 - 1  to fasten first module  120  and second module  140  to each other. This is shown, for example, in  FIG. 8-2 . Fastening pin  512 - 1  may be inserted through first connector  224  and second connector  226  to releasably connect the two modules. 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, when third module  160  is connected to first module  120  and second module  140 , bore  612 - 2 , bore  614 - 2 , and bore  616  of third module  160  align such that they define substantially coextensive spaces. Similarly, aperture  638 - 2 , aperture  614 - 2 , and aperture  642  align such that the borders of the apertures define at least substantially the same shape. This is shown, for example, in  FIG. 7 , where bore  712 - 2  is an aligned bore including bores  612 - 2 ,  614 - 2 ,  616 . Aperture  722  is the aligned aperture including apertures  638 - 2 ,  640 - 2 ,  642 . Fastening pin  512 - 2  may be inserted through bore  712 - 2  to releasably fasten modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  to each other. This is shown, for example, in  FIG. 8-2 . Fastening pin  512 - 2  may be inserted through first connector  224 , second connector  226 , and third connector  318 . 
     According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, distal end  634  of first connector  224  includes a hollow portion or opening  714 . This is shown, for example, in  FIG. 7  where distal end  634  includes tip  718 . Third connector  318  includes distal end  636  and tip  716 . When modules  120 ,  140 , and  160  are connected, distal end  636  of third connector  318  is received in the hollow portion  714  of the first connector  224 . Bores  612 - 2 ,  614 - 2 ,  616  and apertures  638 - 2 ,  640 - 2 ,  642  align because at least a portion of third connector  318  (e.g., distal tip  636 ) is received in cavity  228  and because distal end  636  is received in the hollow portion  714  when first module, second module  140 , and third module  160  are connected. 
     Fastening modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  as shown in  FIG. 8-2  may reduce tolerance stack ups. Because pin  512 - 2  is inserted through connectors  224 ,  226 ,  318 , the shear load transferred directly from first connector  224  to third connector  318  (as opposed to the shear load being transferred from first connector  224 , to second connector  226 , and finally to third connector  318 ). (The shear load is also transferred from the first connector  224  to the second connector  226  via the insertion of pin  512 - 2  through connectors  224 ,  226 .) In other embodiments, an unreduced amount of tolerance stack ups may be used when fastening modules  120 ,  140 ,  160 . 
     Referring back to  FIG. 6 , second connector  226  may include grooves  618  to receive corresponding lips  908 ,  912  of tool  900  ( FIGS. 9-1, 9-2, 10 ). Second connector  226  may also include lips  632 , which are received in corresponding grooves  910 ,  914  ( FIGS. 9-1, 9-2, 10 ). In other embodiments, more or fewer lips/grooves and lips/grooves in different locations may be provided. As described in greater detail herein, tool  900  may be releasably mounted on second connector  226 . According to an exemplary embodiment, during assembly and disassembly of top drive  100 , tool  900  is used for inserting and removing fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2 . During operation of top drive  100 , tool  900  may be removed and plate  624  substituted. Second connector  224  may include holes  630  for fasteners  626 . Fasteners  626  may be used to fasten plate  624  between head  620  of fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  and second connector  226  when fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  are inserted through the aligned bores to fasten modules  120 ,  140 ,  160  to each other. Fasteners  626  may be inserted through holes  628  of plate  624 . While plate  624  is described as being bolted on second connector  226 , any coupling mechanism may be used to dispose plate  624  between head  620  of fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  and second connector  226 . This is shown, for example, in  FIG. 8-1 . Fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  include head portions  620 , body portions  622 , and neck portions  806 . This is shown, for example, in  FIGS. 6, 8-1, and 8-2 .  FIG. 8-2  omits plate  624  and fasteners  626 . Head portions  620  include first concavity or first cutaway portion  802 . Adjacent to neck portions  806  and between head portions  620  and body portions  622  are second concavity or second cutaway portion  804 . As shown in  FIG. 8-1 , plate  624  may be received in second concavities  804  when plate  624  is mounted between head  620  of fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  and second connector  226 . Plate  624  may advantageously maintain the position and orientation of pins  512 - 1  and  512 - 2  during, e.g., operation of the top drive. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8-2 , a variety of components in the top drive system may include chamfered, e.g., beveled, edges and/or fillets, which allow for some tolerance when top drive  100  is assembled. According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, components which are receiving or being received by another component may include chamfered edges. For example, the portion of second connector  226  receiving first connector  224  includes chamfered edges  810 . Tips  718  of first connector  224  include chamfered edges  808  as shown. Tip  716  of third connector  318  includes chamfered edges  812 . 
     The discussion below generally refers to  FIGS. 9-1, 9-2, 10 .  FIG. 9-1  shows a perspective view of a tool, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 9-2  shows another perspective view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1  mounted on a second connector, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
     During assembly and/or disassembly of top drive  100  (e.g., the addition or removal of one or more modules), tool  900  may be used to insert and/or remove fastening pins from their corresponding bores. Tool  900  may be referred to variously as an insertion tool and a removal tool in the discussion herein because tool  900  is “double-acting” or dual-purpose in that it allows and provides back and forth lateral movement of rods  1102 ,  1110  as shown in  FIGS. 11-1 and 11-2 . As discussed herein, rods  1102 ,  1110  are coupled to fastening pins. When the rods move laterally back and forth, the rods are inserted and removed from their corresponding aligned bores, respectively. Thus, first module  120 , second module  140 , and/or third module  160  may be fastened and unfastened using tool  900 . 
     Tool  900  includes fastening portion  902 , supporting portion  904 , and housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2 . Tool  900  may be slidably mounted on (i.e., may slide laterally onto and off of) second connector  226 , although any suitable mounting/fastening device or technique may be used if desired. A distal part of the fastening portion  902  may include an attachment mechanism configured to releasably couple the tool to a portion of a top drive (e.g., second connector  226 ). In some embodiments, the distal part of fastening portion  902  includes lips  908 ,  912 , which may be received in corresponding grooves  618  (shown in  FIGS. 8-1 and 8-2 ) of second connector  226  (i.e., a top drive portion). Lips  632  of second connector  226  may be received in corresponding grooves  910 ,  914  of tool  900 . When tool  900  is slidably mounted on and removed from second connector  226 , lips  908 ,  912  may slide along grooves  618 , and grooves  910 ,  914  may slide along lips  632 . 
     Fastening portion  904  includes recesses  922  as shown in  FIG. 9-2  to allow fastening pins coupled to rods of tool  900  ( FIGS. 11-1, 11-2 ) to pass therethrough, into and out of second connector  226 . Fastening portion  902  includes alignment member  920 . Alignment member  920  may be received in a corresponding alignment recess  1130  of second connector  226  when tool  900  axially aligns with second connector  226 , as tool  900  is slidably mounted on second connector  226 . According to an exemplary embodiment, alignment recess  1130  is a threaded hole (e.g., hole  630 ) for fastener  626 . Alignment recess  1130  is shown in  FIG. 11-2 .  FIG. 11-2  shows tool  900  mounted on second connector  226 , and thus, alignment member  920  is received in alignment recess  1130 . When tool  900  is axially aligned with second connector  226 , rods  1102 ,  1110  of tool  900  (and fastening pins  1102 ,  1122  coupled thereto) are axially aligned with the corresponding aligned bores. When tool  900  is slidably mounted on second connector  226 , an operator may stop moving tool  900  once alignment member  920  is received in alignment recess  1130 . A head portion  918  may include a spring mechanism. According to an exemplary embodiment, head portion  918  is integrally formed or otherwise coupled to alignment member  920  such that when head portion  918  is pulled back and/or released, alignment member  920  is also pulled back and/or released. Mounting feature  916  may be coupled to fastening portion  904  and may include a recess through which alignment member  920  moves. When tool  900  is to be removed from second connector  226 , head portion  918  may be pulled back such that alignment member  920  is removed from alignment recess  1130 . An operator may then slide tool  900  off of second connector  226 . 
     A proximal part of fastening portion  902  is coupled to supporting portion or supporting member  904 . Supporting portion  904  may include a plurality of cross-members that couple housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  to fastening portion  902 . Thus, housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  may be coupled to the proximal part of fastening portion  902  via supporting portion  904 . A variety of mechanisms may be used to couple supporting portion  904  to housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  and to fastening portion  902 . In  FIGS. 9-1, 9-2, 10 , bolt  930  and nut  928  (and others like them) are shown coupling housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  to supporting portion  904 . Bolt  926  and nut  932  (and others like them) are shown coupling fastening portion  902  to supporting portion  904 . In other embodiments, these components may be welded together, integrally formed, or otherwise coupled. 
     The discussion below generally refers to  FIGS. 11-1, 11-2, 12-1, 12-2, 12-3, 12-4 , and  13 .  FIG. 11-1  is a partial view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1  mounted on a second connector, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. One supporting member  904  is not shown in  FIG. 11-1 , compared to  FIG. 10 .  FIG. 11-2  is a cross-sectional view of the tool of  FIG. 9-1  mounted on a second connector, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 12-1  is a perspective view of a fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 12-2  is a side view of a fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 12-3  is a side view of fastening pin, rotated about its longitudinal axis relative to  FIG. 12-2 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 12-4  is a front view of a fastening pin, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.  FIG. 13  is a side view of a rod of the tool of  FIG. 9-1 , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. 
     Tool  900  includes housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2 . Housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  may house rods  1110 ,  1102 , respectively, in interior portions thereof, such as when they are disengaged from the connectors. Rods  1110 ,  1114  are movable into and out of housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2 . Rods  1110 ,  1114  are disposed along longitudinal axes of housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2 , respectively. Housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  include cavities  1112  into which and out of which rods  1110 ,  1114  move. According to an exemplary embodiment, housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  are fluidly coupled to a hydraulic line, and rods  1110 ,  1114  are hydraulically actuated between a first position (e.g., retracted position) substantially inside of housing  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  and a second position (e.g., advanced position) substantially outside of housing  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2 . According to an exemplary embodiment, housings  906 - 1 ,  906 - 2  are hydraulic cylinders. While a hydraulic mechanism is specifically mentioned, any mechanism (e.g., electric) for moving rods  1110 ,  1114  may be used. The engagement of tool  900  and second connector  226  via lips  908 ,  912 ,  632  and grooves  618 ,  910 ,  914  advantageously resists any forces acting on tool  900  when rods  1110 ,  1114  are actuated. This may be assisted by the extension of alignment member  920  into alignment recess  1130  to prevent lateral sliding of the tool  900  relative to the second connector  226 . Thus, tool  900  maintains engagement with second connector  226  during movement of rods  1110 ,  1114 . 
     End portions of rods  1110 ,  1114  may be removably coupled to fastening pins  1122 ,  1102 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 13 , an end portion of rod  1300  includes a head portion  1306 , a neck portion  1304 , and a body portion  1302 . A radius of neck portion  1304  may be smaller than a radius of head portion  1306 . The end portion is shown projecting out of housing  1308 . As shown in  FIGS. 12-1, 12-2, 12-3, 12-4 , fastening pin  1200  includes a head portion  1204 , neck portion  1206 , and body portion  1202 . Head portion  1204  includes a first concavity or first cutaway portion  1208 . Fastening pin  1200  also includes a second concavity or cutaway portion  1212 , adjacent to neck portion  1206  and between head portion  1204  and body portion  1202 . Head portion  1204  includes chamfered edges  1214  and body portion  1202  includes tapered end  1210 . According to an exemplary embodiment, when rod  1300  and fastening pin  1200  are coupled, head portion  1306  of rod  1300  is received in second concavity  1212  of fastening pin  1200 . Neck portion  1304  of rod  1300  is received in first concavity  1208  of fastening pin  1200 . 
       FIGS. 11-1, 11-2  show fastening pin  1122  is coupled to rod  1110 . Head portion  1106  of rod  1110  is received in the second cavity of fastening pin  1122  adjacent to neck portion  1128  of fastening pin  1122 . Neck portion  1108  of rod  1110  is received in the first concavity of head portion  1120  of fastening pin  1122 . Similarly,  FIGS. 11-1, 11-2  show fastening pin  1102  is coupled to rod  1114 . Head portion  1118  of rod  1114  is received in the second cavity of fastening pin  1102  adjacent to neck portion  1126  of fastening pin  1102 . Neck portion  1116  of rod  1114  is received in the first concavity of head portion  1104  of fastening pin  1102 . 
       FIGS. 11-1, 11-2  may depict a time after first module  120  and second module  140  have been fastened and before third module  160  is fastened to first module  120  and second module  140 . Fastening pin  1122  is inserted in the corresponding aligned bores of first connector  224  and second connector  226 . The fastening pin is removably insertable into a first top drive module and a second top drive module so as to connect at least a first top drive module and second top drive module to each other when inserted into a connection portion of each of the first and second top drive modules. In some embodiments, the fastening pin is removably insertable into a third top drive module so as to connect at least a first top drive module, second top drive module, and third top drive module when inserted into a connection portion of each of the first, second, and third top drive modules. Tool  900  is mounted on second connector  226 . Rod  1110  has been actuated from a first position substantially inside the housing  906 - 1  to a second position substantially outside of housing  906 - 1 . Because fastening pin  1122  is coupled to rod  1110 , fastening pin  1122  has also been moved from a second position where the fastening pin is not inserted in connectors  224 ,  226  to a first position where the fastening pin is inserted in connectors  224 ,  226 . Fastening pin  1122  is received in aligned bores of first connector  224 , second connector  226 , and third connector  318 . 
     In  FIGS. 11-1, 11-2 , third module  160  has been connected to first module  120  and second module  140 , but not yet fastened with fastening pin  1102 . Rod  1114  is in a first position, substantially inside of housing  906 - 2 . Fastening pin  1102 , which is coupled to rod  1114 , is in a first position where the fastening pin is not inserted through connectors  224 ,  226 ,  318 . Once rod  1114  is actuated, fastening pin  1102  will be inserted into aligned bore  1124  of connectors  224 ,  226 ,  318 . Once fastening pin  1102  is inserted into aligned bore  1124 , third module  160  is connected and fastened with first module  120  and second module  140 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 14-1 , a flow diagram of process  1400  for assembling a top drive is shown according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Process  1400  includes providing a first module and a second module ( 1402 ). The first module may include a first connector and may be similar to first module  120  discussed herein. Second module may include a second connector and may be similar to second module  140  discussed herein. Method  1400  may be directed to assembling the first and second modules (and, in some embodiments, a third module) to at least partially assemble a top drive (such as top drive  100  discussed herein). 
     Process  1400  includes arranging the first module over the second module so that the first connector and the second connector are disposed proximate to the other ( 1404 ). In some embodiments, the first connector extends into a cavity of the second connector. In such embodiments, arranging the first module over the second module includes orienting at least one of the first module and the second module so that the first connector extends into a cavity of the second connector. Orienting at least one of the first module and the second module may cause at least one aperture of the first connector to be aligned with at least one aperture of the second connector ( 1404 ). In some embodiments, the first and second connectors are otherwise connected without a cavity in the second connector(s). For example, the first connector and second connector are components that are placed adjacent to the other. According to an exemplary embodiment, first module may be lowered onto the second module. In other embodiments, the second module may be brought closer to the first module or the modules may be brought closer to each other. The at least one aperture of the first connector may be similar to bores  612 - 1 ,  612 - 2  discussed herein. The cavity of the second connector and at least one aperture of the second connector may be similar to cavity  228  and bores  614 - 1 ,  614 - 2  discussed herein. 
     Process  1400  includes coupling the first connector and the second connector to fasten the first module and the second module to each other ( 1406 ). The first connector and the second connector may be coupled by any suitable fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, such as when the first connector and the second connector are components that are placed adjacent to each other, a clamping structure may be used to fasten them to each other. In some embodiments, such as when the second connector includes a cavity in which the first connector is received, a fastening pin may be inserted through the aligned apertures of the first and second connectors, to fasten the first and second connector to each other. 
     Process  1400  includes providing a third module ( 1408 ). The third module includes a third connector. The third module may be similar to third module  160  discussed herein. 
     Process  1400  includes arranging the first module and second module over the third module so that the third connector is disposed proximate to at least one of the first connector and the second connector. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a cavity. The third connector may extend into the cavity of the second connector and an opening of the first connector. In such embodiments, arranging the first module and the second module over the third module includes orienting at least one of the first module, the second module, and the third module so that the first connector extends into a cavity of the second connector. Orienting at least one of the first module, the second module, and the third module may cause at least one aperture of the third connector to be aligned with at least one aperture of the second connector. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third connectors are otherwise connected without a cavity in the second connector(s). For example, the first, second, and third connectors are components that are placed adjacent to the other. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first and second modules, combined in step  1404 , may be lowered onto the third module. In other embodiments, the third module may be brought closer to the first and second modules or the modules may be brought closer to each other. The at least one aperture of the third connector may be similar to bore  616  discussed herein. The opening of the first connector may be similar to hollow portion or opening  714  discussed herein. 
     Process  1400  includes coupling the third connector and at least one of the coupled first connector and the second connector, to fasten the first module, the second module, and the third module to each other ( 1412 ). The first connector, the second connector, and/or the third connector may be coupled by any suitable fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, such as when the first, second, and third connectors are components that are placed adjacent to each other, a clamping structure may be used to fasten them to each other. In some embodiments, such as when the second connector includes a cavity in which the first connector is received, a fastening pin may be inserted through the first, second, and/or third connectors. 
     In some embodiments, process  1400  includes inserting at least one fastening pin through the aligned apertures to fasten the first module, the second module, and the third module to each other. Inserting the at least one fastening pin may be further described with respect to process  1450  ( FIG. 14-2 ). In some embodiments, a fastening pin may be inserted through the aligned apertures of the first module and the second module to fasten the two modules together. A fastening pin may later be inserted through the aligned apertures of the first, second, and third modules to fasten the three modules together. In other embodiments, all modules may be connected and fastened at approximately the same time. In other embodiments, different sub-combinations of modules may be first connected and fastened. The fastening pin may be similar to fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  discussed herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14-2 , a flow diagram of a process  1450  for inserting at least one fastening pin is shown, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Process  1450  includes coupling at least one fastening pin to a rod of an insertion tool ( 1452 ). According to an exemplary embodiment, an operator may manually couple the fastening pin to the rod. The rod may be actuated to an advanced position (i.e., substantially outside of a housing) before the fastening pin is coupled to the rod. The fastening pin may be coupled to the rod with the rod in the advanced position. The fastening pin and rod of the insertion tool may be coupled when a head portion of the fastening pin is received in a neck portion of the rod of the insertion tool and when a head portion of the rod of the insertion tool is received in a neck portion of the fastening pin. The fastening pin may be similar to fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  discussed herein. The rod of the insertion tool may be similar to rods  1110 ,  1114  discussed herein. 
     Process  1450  includes mounting the insertion tool on the second connector ( 1454 ). According to an exemplary embodiment, the rod of the insertion tool (to which the fastening pin is coupled, from step  1452 ) is actuated to a retracted position (i.e., substantially inside of a housing) before the insertion tool is mounted on the second connector. When the rod of the insertion tool is actuated to the retracted position, the fastening pin that is coupled to the rod is captured between supporting members of the tool such that the fastening pin does not extend beyond a distal end of the insertion tool. That is, the rod of the insertion tool is retracted to “conceal” the fastening pin with a total volume of the insertion tool. Thus, the insertion tool is not impeded by the fastening pin when the insertion tool is mounted on the second connector (e.g., the fastening pin does not contact the second connector as the insertion tool is mounted). The insertion tool may be slidably mounted to the second connector. In one or more aspects of the present disclosure, at least one lip of the insertion tool is received and slides along a corresponding groove of the second connector when the insertion tool is mounted. At least one lip of the second connector may be received and slide along a corresponding groove of the insertion tool when the insertion tool is mounted. The insertion tool may be similar to tool  900  discussed herein. The second connector may be similar to second connector  226  discussed herein. 
     Process  1450  includes aligning the rod and the at least one fastening pin with the aligned apertures ( 1456 ). In one or more aspects of the present disclosure, an alignment member of the insertion tool is received in an alignment recess of the second connector when the insertion tool and second connector are in axial alignment. When the insertion tool and second connector are in axial alignment, the fastening pin (coupled to a rod of the insertion tool in step  1452 ) is axially aligned with the aligned apertures. The aligned apertures may be similar to aligned aperture  1124  discussed herein. 
     Process  1450  includes actuating the rod of the insertion tool from a first position to a second position ( 1458 ). According to an exemplary embodiment, in a first position, the at least one fastening pin is removed from the aligned aperture. In a second position, the at least one fastening pin is inserted in the aligned aperture. Actuating the rod of the insertion tool causes the fastening pin to be inserted into the aligned apertures. Thus, two or more modules of the first, second, and third modules are connected and fastened. The first position may be similarly described with respect to the position of rod  1110 . The second position may be similarly described with respect to the position of rod  1102 . 
     In some embodiments, process  1400  and/or process  1450  further include disengaging the insertion tool from the second connector. Disengaging the insertion tool may include removing the alignment member from the alignment recess and then slidably removing the insertion tool from the second connector. Process  1400  and/or process  1450  may also further include mounting a plate between a head portion of the at least one fastening pin and the second connector. In one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the plate may be mounted on the second connector during operation of the top drive. The plate may maintain an alignment of the at least one fastening pin when, during operation of the top drive, forces acting on the top drive may cause misalignment. As shown in, e.g.,  FIG. 8-1 , the plate may maintain the openings of the first and second concavity of a fastening pin open towards one direction. This may advantageously enable efficient mounting and removal of the insertion/removal tool because the ends of rods of the insertion/removal tool are sized and shaped for coupling with at least one fastening. The plate may be received in the second concavity of the fastening pin. The plate may be similar to plate  624  discussed herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , a flow diagram of a process  1500  for disassembling a top drive is shown, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Process  1500  includes providing an assembly ( 1502 ). The assembly may include a first module, a second module, and a third module. The first module may include a first connector, the second module may include a second connector, and the third module may include a third connector. The assembly is fastened by at least one fastening pin inserted through (a) at least one aperture of the first connector and at least one aperture of the second connector and (b) at least one aperture of the third connector and at least one aperture of the second connector. The apertures may be aligned while the at least one fastening pin is inserted therein. The first module, second module, and third module may be similar to first module  120 , second module  140 , and third module  160 , respectively, discussed herein. The first connector, second connector, and third connector may be similar to first connector  224 , second connector  226 , and third connector  318 , respectively, discussed herein. The at least one fastening pin may be similar to fastening pin  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  discussed herein. The at least one aperture of the first connector may be similar to aperture  612 - 1 ,  612 - 2  discussed herein. The at least one aperture of the second connector may be similar to aperture  614 - 1 ,  614 - 2  discussed herein. The at least one aperture of the third connector may be similar to aperture  616 . 
     In some embodiments, a removal tool may be mounted on the second connector. The removal tool may be slidably mounted on the second connector. In one or more aspects of the present disclosure, at least one lip of the removal tool is received and slides along a corresponding groove of the second connector when the removal tool is mounted. At least one lip of the second connector may similarly be received and slide along a corresponding groove of the removal tool when the removal tool is mounted. The removal tool may be similar to tool  900  discussed herein. The second connector may be similar to second connector  226  discussed herein. 
     In some embodiments, a rod of the removal tool may be aligned with the at least one fastening pin. In one or more aspects of the present disclosure, an alignment member of the removal tool is received in an alignment recess of the second connector when the removal tool and second connector are in axial alignment. When the insertion tool and second connector are in axial alignment, the fastening pin (inserted into the aligned aperture including an aperture of the second connector) is axially aligned with the rod of the removal tool. 
     Process  1500  includes coupling at least one fastening pin to a rod ( 1504 ). The rod may be a component of a removal tool, such as removal tool  900  discussed herein. In some embodiments, the removal tool is releasably coupled to the second connector. According to an exemplary embodiment, openings of the first and second concavities of the fastening pin may be oriented such that an end portion of the rod engages the fastening pin when the removal tool is aligned. That is, as the removal tool slides onto the second connector, the corresponding head/neck portions of the fastening pin and tool may similarly slide into engagement. The fastening pin and rod of the insertion tool may be coupled when a head portion of the fastening pin is received in a neck portion of the rod of the insertion tool and when a head portion of the rod of the insertion tool is received in a neck portion of the fastening pin. The fastening pin may be similar to fastening pins  512 - 1 ,  512 - 2  discussed herein. The rod of the insertion tool may be similar to rods  1110 ,  1114  discussed herein. 
     Process  1500  includes actuating the rod from an advanced position adjacent the at least one fastening pin to a removed position. According to an exemplary embodiment, in an advanced position, the fastening pin is inserted in the aligned apertures. In a removed position, the at least one fastening pin may be removed from the aligned apertures. The advanced position may be similarly described with respect to the position of rod  1110 . The removed position may be similarly described with respect to the position of rod  1102 . 
     In some embodiments process  1500  may additionally include disengaging a plate mounted between a head portion of the at least one fastening pin and the second connector and then mounting a removal tool on the second connector. The rod may be a component of the removal tool. 
     In view of all of the above and the figures, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the present disclosure introduces a top drive including a plurality of modules. The top drive includes a first fastening member. The first fastening member includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end extends from a first module. The top drive includes a second fastening member extending from a second module. The first fastening member and the second fastening member are configured to be removably coupled to connect the first module and the second module. 
     In some embodiments, the top drive includes a third fastening member. The third fastening member includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end extends from a third module. The third fastening member is configured to be removably coupled to at least one of the first fastening member and the second fastening member, to connect the first module, the second module, and the third module. In some embodiments, the second fastening member includes a cavity extending longitudinally therein. The cavity is configured to receive at least a portion of the first fastening member to connect the first module and the second module. In some embodiments, the cavity of the second fastening member is further configured to receive at least a portion of the third fastening member to connect the first module, the second module, and the third module. In some embodiments, the distal end of the first fastening member includes a hollow portion formed therein. The hollow portion is configured to receive at least a portion of the third fastening member to connect the first module, the second module, and the third module. In some embodiments, the distal end of the first fastening member further includes a first bore and a second bore extending laterally therein. The second fastening member further includes a third bore and a fourth bore extending laterally therein. The distal end of the third fastening member further includes a fifth bore extending laterally therein. When the first module, the second module, and the third module are connected, (a) the first bore and the third bore are aligned, and (b) the second bore, the fourth bore, and the fifth bore are aligned. In some embodiments, the top drive further includes a fastening pin removably insertable through at least one of the first fastening member, the second fastening member, and the third fastening member, to secure the first module, the second module, and the third module when connected. In some embodiments, the fastening pin includes a head portion, a neck portion, and a body portion. The head portion of the fastening pin includes a first concavity and the neck portion of the fastening pin includes a second concavity. A radius of the second concavity is greater than a radius of the first concavity. In some embodiments, the top drive includes a plate disposed between the head portion of the fastening pin and the second fastening member. The plate is received in the second concavity. In some embodiments, the top drive includes a tool for inserting the fastening pin through and removing the fastening pin from at least one of the first fastening member, the second fastening member, and the third fastening member. The tool includes a lip for slidably mounting the tool on the second fastening member. The second fastening member further includes a groove for receiving the lip of the tool. In some embodiments, the tool further includes a rod. The rod includes a body portion, a neck portion, and a head portion. The rod is removably coupled to the fastening pin. The first concavity receives the neck portion of the rod, and the second concavity receives the head portion of the rod. In some embodiments, the rod is moveable between a first position and a second position. In a first position, the fastening pin is inserted in at least one of the first fastening member, the second fastening member, and the third fastening member. In a second position, the fastening pin is removed from at least one of the first fastening member, the second fastening member, and the third fastening member. In some embodiments, the tool further includes an alignment member. The second fastening member further includes an alignment recess. The alignment member is received in the alignment recess when the tool is axially aligned with the second fastening member. 
     The present disclosure also introduces a top drive including a first module. The first module includes a plurality of first connectors. Each of the plurality of first connectors includes a first bore and a second bore extending laterally therein and an opening at a distal end. The top drive includes a second module. The second module includes a plurality of second connectors. Each of the plurality of second connectors includes a cavity extending longitudinally therethrough and a third bore and a fourth bore extending laterally therein. The top drive includes a third module. The third module includes a plurality of third connectors. Each of the plurality of third connectors includes a fifth bore extending laterally therein. The cavity is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the first connector and at least a portion of the third connector. The opening is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the third connector. The first bore and the third bore are aligned. The second bore, the fourth bore, and the fifth bore are aligned. The top drive includes at least one fastening pin removably inserted through at least one of the first connector, the second connector, and the third connector, to secure the first module, the second module, and the third module to each other. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one fastening pin includes a head, a neck, and a body. The head includes a first cutaway portion. The neck includes a second cutaway portion. A radius of the second cutaway portion is greater than a radius of the first cutaway portion. In some embodiments, the top drive further includes a plate disposed between the head of the at least one fastening pin and the second connector. The plate is received in the second cutaway portion. In some embodiments, the top drive further includes a tool for inserting the fastening pin through and removing the at least one fastening pin from at least one of the first connector, the second connector, and the third connector. The tool includes a lip for slidably mounting the tool on the second connector. The lip is received in a groove of the second connector. In some embodiments, the tool further includes a rod moveable from a first position inside a housing to a second position outside the housing. The rod includes a body, a neck, and a head. The rod is coupled to the at least one fastening pin during insertion and removal thereof. The first cutaway portion receives the neck of the rod. The second cutaway portion receives the head of the rod. In some embodiments, the tool further includes an alignment member and the second connector further includes an alignment recess. The alignment member is received in the alignment recess when the tool is axially aligned with the second connector. 
     The present disclosure also introduces a method of assembling a top drive. The method includes providing a first module and a second module. The first module includes a first connector, and the second module includes a second connector. The method includes arranging the first module over the second module so that the first connector and the second connector are disposed proximate to the other. The method includes coupling the first connector and the second connector to fasten the first module and the second module. 
     In some embodiments, the method includes providing a third module including a third connector. The method includes arranging the first module and the second module on top of the third module so that the third connector is disposed proximate to at least one of the first connector and the second connector. The method includes coupling the third connector and at least one of the coupled first connector and the second connector, to fasten the first module, the second module, and the third module to each other. In some embodiments, arranging the first module over the second module includes orienting the first module so that the first connector extends into a cavity of the second connector and so that at least one aperture of the first connector is aligned with at least one aperture of the second connector. In some embodiments, arranging the first module and the second module over the third module includes orienting the third module so that the third connector extends into the cavity of the second connector and an opening of the first connector, and so that at least one aperture of the third connector is aligned with the at least one aperture of the second connector. In some embodiments, the method includes inserting at least one fastening pin through the aligned apertures of the first connector, the second connector, and the third connector, to fasten the first module, the second module, and the third module to each other. In some embodiments, inserting the at least one fastening pin includes coupling the at least one fastening pin to a rod of an insertion tool; mounting the insertion tool on the second connector; aligning the rod and the at least one fastening pin with the aligned apertures; and actuating the rod of the insertion tool from a retracted position to an advanced position, wherein, in the retracted position, the at least one fastening pin is removed from the aligned apertures, and in the advanced position, the at least one fastening pin is inserted through the aligned apertures. In some embodiments, the method includes disengaging the insertion tool from the second connector and mounting a plate between a head portion of the at least one fastening pin and the second connector. 
     The present disclosure also introduces a method of disassembling a top drive. The method includes providing an assembly including a first module, a second module, and a third module. The first module comprises a first connector, the second module comprises a second connector, and the third module comprises a third connector. The assembly is fastened by at least one fastening pin inserted through (a) at least one aperture of the first connector and at least one aperture of the second connector and (b) at least one aperture of the third connector, at least one aperture of the first connector, and at least one aperture of the second connector. The apertures are aligned while the at least one fastening pin is inserted therein. The method includes coupling the at least one fastening pin to a rod. The method includes actuating the rod from the advanced position adjacent the at least one fastening pin to a removed position. In a removed position, the at least one fastening pin is removed from the aligned apertures. 
     In some embodiments, the method includes disengaging a plate mounted between a head portion of the at least one fastening pin and the second connector and then mounting the removal tool on the second connector. 
     The present disclosure also introduces a tool for assembling or disassembling a top drive. The tool includes a fastening portion including a proximal part and a distal part. The distal part includes an attachment mechanism configured to releasably couple the tool to a portion of a top drive. The tool includes a first housing coupled to the proximal part of the fastening portion and including a recess disposed therein. The tool includes a first rod disposed at least partially within the recess of the first housing and along a longitudinal axis of the first housing. 
     In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism includes a first lip configured to be slidably received in a first groove of the top drive portion. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism further includes a second lip configured to be slidably received in a second groove of the top drive portion. The top drive portion is a top drive module. In some embodiments, the tool includes at least one support member disposed between the fastening portion and the first housing. The at least one support member is coupled to the fastening portion and the first housing. In some embodiments, the first rod is configured to be removably coupled to a fastening pin. The fastening pin is removably insertable into the top drive module so as to connect at least a first top drive module and second top drive module to each other when inserted into a connection portion of each of the first and second top drive modules. In some embodiments, the first rod includes a body portion, a neck portion, and a head portion. A radius of the neck portion being smaller than a radius of the head portion. In some embodiments, the first rod is moveable between a retracted position and an advanced position. In the retracted position, the first rod is substantially inside of the first housing. In the advanced position, the first rod is substantially outside the first housing. In some embodiments, the first housing is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic line. The first rod is hydraulically actuated between the retracted position and the advanced position. In some embodiments, the tool includes an alignment member configured to be received in an alignment recess of the top drive module when the tool is axially aligned with the top drive module. In some embodiments, the tool includes a second housing coupled to the proximal part of the fastening portion and including a recess disposed therein. The tool includes a second rod disposed at least partially within the recess of the second housing and along a longitudinal axis of the second housing. 
     The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that a person of ordinary skill in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Such features may be replaced by any one of numerous equivalent alternatives, only some of which are disclosed herein. One of ordinary skill 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. One of ordinary skill 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. 
     The Abstract at the end of this disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 
     Moreover, it is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f) for any limitations of any of the claims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly uses the word “means” together with an associated function.