Patent Description:
This disclosure relates in general to oil and gas tools, and in particular, to systems and methods for sealing across lines or pipes.

In oil and gas production, drilling and recovery may occur in high pressure environments where various tools may be utilized to control wellbore pressures. For example, a blowout preventer (BOP) or the like may be arranged at an entrance to the wellbore. During operations, equipment may pass through the blowout preventer and, if necessary, the blowout preventer may be utilized to seal the wellbore to reduce the likelihood of uncontrolled releases from the wellbore. One component of the blowout preventer may be a shear ram. The shear ram may be a hydraulically driven component that drives cutting edges of two components toward one another to contact and shear and/or seal across the components between, such as wirelines or piping. The shear rams within the BOPs may undergo maintenance operations, and installation and removal may be time consuming and dangerous due to the configuration of many BOPs.

<CIT> describes a blowout preventer including a housing, a ram block carrier which moves within the housing, and one or more ram blocks configured to be placed within the ram block carrier. The ram block carrier may include an opening, an upper shelf within the opening configured to hold an upper ram block, and a lower shelf within the opening configured to hold a lower ram block. The housing may include a central bore, cavities on both sides of the bore, and openings which allow ram blocks to access a pipe within the bore.

Applicants recognized the problems noted above herein and conceived and developed embodiments of systems and methods, according to the present disclosure, for BOPs.

In an example not making part of the claimed subject-matter, a blowout preventer (BOP) for controlling pressure within a wellbore includes an internal cavity and a front side including a door opening, the door opening providing access to the internal cavity. The BOP also includes a door assembly associated with the door opening. The door assembly includes a door, movable between a first position and a second position, the door blocking access to the internal cavity in the first position and enabling access to the internal cavity in the second position. The door assembly also includes a hinge coupled to the door to facilitate movement of the door between the first position and the second position. The door assembly further includes a coupling device associated with the door, the coupling device securing the door to the front side. The BOP also includes a back side including an outlet, the outlet being fluidly coupled to the internal cavity.

The disclosure refers to a blowout preventer according to claim <NUM>. According to the present disclosure, a blowout preventer (BOP) for controlling pressure within a wellbore includes an internal cavity and a front side including a door opening, the door opening providing access to the internal cavity. The BOP also includes a door associated with the door opening, the door being movable between a first position and a second position, the door blocking access to the internal cavity in the first position and enabling access to the internal cavity in the second position. The BOP further includes a hinge coupled to the door. The hinge includes a hinge body, the hinge body secured to a body of the BOP. The hinge also includes a hinge coupling coupled to the door. The hinge further includes a rotation mechanism arranged at an interface between the hinge body and the hinge coupling, the rotational mechanism securing the door in the second position or in a third position, the third position enabling access to the internal cavity.

In an embodiment, the door may be part of a door assembly. The door assembly also includes the hinge.

The present technology will be better understood on reading the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments thereof, and on examining the accompanying drawings, in which:.

The foregoing aspects, features and advantages of the present technology will be further appreciated when considered with reference to the following description of preferred embodiments and accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements. In describing the preferred embodiments of the technology illustrated in the appended drawings, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. The present technology, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terms used, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

Any examples of operating parameters and/or environmental conditions are not exclusive of other parameters/conditions of the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, it should be understood that references to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "certain embodiments," or "other embodiments" of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, reference to terms such as "above," "below," "upper", "lower", "side", "front," "back," or other terms regarding orientation are made with reference to the illustrated embodiments and are not intended to be limiting or exclude other orientations.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a blowout preventer (BOP) configuration to facilitate loading and unloading of ram blocks while also maintaining structural integrity for high-pressure operating conditions. In various embodiments, the BOP includes a hinged design door opening to facilitate installation and removal of the rams from an internal cavity of the BOP. In embodiments, at least a portion of the door, such as a door extension, may be incorporated into removal procedures. The door may pivot away from a body of the BOP, for example about an axis, to facilitate removal and installation of the ram blocks. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the doors may be structured to accommodate the operating pressure while also reducing an overall weight of the doors.

In various embodiments not covered by the claimed invention of the present disclosure, the body of the BOP may include an elongated top seat that extends through at least a portion of the body. The top seat may be arranged perpendicularly with respect to an opening associated with the doors. In certain embodiments, a machining tool having a <NUM>-degree cutting head may be utilized to form at least a portion of the top seat. In embodiments, the machining tool may be installed through the opening and then used to machine at least a portion of the top seat. In operation, a ram block may translate within a passage formed by the machining tool, which includes the top seat, to translate from a disengaged position to an engaged position. In the engaged position, the ram block may be used to cut wireline or tubulars to control pressure within a wellbore.

In various embodiments, not covered by the claimed invention, the body of the BOP may be machined to provide reinforcing ribs at various locations to accommodate anticipated operating conditions while also removing material in other areas to reduce an overall weight of the BOP. Additionally, various inlet and outlet passages may be arranged at angles to facilitate positioning of tubulars and actuators coupled to the BOP body. For example, in an embodiment, a front side of the BOP may include a strengthening rib arranged between openings associated with the door. Moreover, a back side of the BOP may include an angled face to provide an outlet. The angled face may facilitate coupling of various valves to the BOP while also minimizing interference between the valves or other coupled items.

Actuators for driving the ram blocks may be coupled to the BOP body. The actuators may be installed utilizing an installation procedure that provides an indication to the operator that the actuators are coupled to the BOP. For example, at least a portion of the actuator may include a window to visually identify one or more nuts, or a portion of a thread, to determine a position of the actuator. In this manner, installation procedures may be more reliable and also simplified for operations.

Embodiments not covered by the claimed invention of the present disclosure are directed to BOP systems and methods for machining the body, installing rams, removing rams, and installing actuators for driving the rams. In various embodiments, components of the BOP system may be modular to facilitate different configurations. For example, the BOP system may include two rams, four rams, six rams, or any other configuration. Moreover, the BOP system may include a variety of inlets and outlets. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that various aspects of the present disclosure may be combined or adjusted to address a variety of different operating conditions.

<FIG> is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a wellbore system <NUM> that includes a tool <NUM> (which may be part of a tool string) being lowered into a wellbore <NUM> formed in a formation <NUM> from a surface location <NUM>. The illustrated wellbore system <NUM> may be referred to as a wireline system because the tool <NUM> is conveyed on a cable <NUM>, such as an electric wireline. In various embodiments, the electric wireline may transmit electric signals and/or energy from the surface location <NUM> into the wellbore, for example to provide operational power for the tool <NUM> and/or to transmit data, such as data obtained from sensors arranged on the tool <NUM>. In various embodiments, the tool <NUM> may be utilized to perform downhole logging operations, such as an imaging tool, a resistivity tool, a nuclear tool, or any other logging tool that may be used in a downhole environment.

The wellbore system <NUM> includes a wellhead assembly <NUM>, shown at an opening of the wellbore <NUM>, to provide pressure control of the wellbore <NUM> and allow for passage of equipment into the wellbore <NUM>, such as the cable <NUM> and the tool <NUM>. In this example, the cable <NUM> is a wireline being spooled from a service truck <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the cable <NUM> and wireline system is for illustrative purposes only, and in other embodiments, the tool <NUM> may be deployed along pipes or tubing. That is, a rigid or substantially rigid tool string may be deployed. The wellhead assembly <NUM> may include a BOP <NUM> (e.g., pressure control device) that comprises shear rams that may be utilized to shear components extending through BOP <NUM>. For example, in embodiments the cable <NUM> may be sheared. However, in embodiments where the tool <NUM> is deployed on rigid or semi rigid piping, the piping may be cut, severed, crimped, or otherwise modified by the rams. For example, the rams may shear through the pipe. In other embodiments, the rams may crimp or otherwise bend the pipe such that flow is blocked. As will be described below, in various embodiments the shear rams may be energized to move from a position outside of a bore of the BOP <NUM> to a position within the bore of the BOP <NUM>. The shear rams may cut the cable <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment to thereby facilitate closure of the wellbore <NUM>. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the seal rams may also shear and seal across drill pipe, casing, shear subs or combinations of pipe, control lines, tubing, hoses, and/or wireline. Accordingly, while embodiments herein may be described with respect to shearing the cable <NUM>, embodiments may also be utilized with various other downhole deployment methods. It should be appreciated that while <FIG> illustrates a land operation that, in various embodiments, systems and methods of the present disclosure may also be utilized in sub-sea operations and the like. Furthermore, as noted above, the illustrated cable <NUM> may be replaced with rigid tubing in various embodiments.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an embodiment of the BOP <NUM>, which may include various components to facilitate installation and removal of the rams, among other features. In the illustrated embodiment, the BOP <NUM> includes a body portion <NUM> having a front side <NUM> and a back side <NUM>. It should be appreciated that "front" and "back" are described relative to the illustrated embodiment and are not intended to limit the disclosure. For example, the front side <NUM> is opposite the back side <NUM>.

The front side <NUM> includes a plurality of door assemblies <NUM> that includes doors <NUM> and hinges <NUM>. The illustrated embodiment includes four door assemblies <NUM>. However, it should be appreciated that other embodiments may include <NUM> door assemblies <NUM>, six door assemblies <NUM>, or any other reasonable number. The front side <NUM> further includes a rib <NUM> that extends from a top <NUM> to a bottom <NUM>. The bottom <NUM> is coupled to flange <NUM>, which may facilitate coupling the BOP <NUM> to a wellbore. In various embodiments, the doors <NUM> may be configured to pivot about an axis, for example via the hinges <NUM>, to facilitate access to an interior portion of the body <NUM>, for example, through door openings formed in the body <NUM>.

As will be described below, the doors <NUM> may include one or more reinforcement features <NUM> to provide structural stability in response to the operating pressures of the BOP, as well as loads or forces that may be coupled to the doors <NUM>, such as the rams. In operation, the doors <NUM> may be secured to the body <NUM> via apertures <NUM> arranged about a face <NUM> of the doors <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the apertures <NUM> are positioned radially outward from the reinforcement feature <NUM>, however, it should be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the apertures <NUM> may be arranged at different locations. Furthermore, the inclusion of <NUM> apertures receiving the fasteners <NUM> is for illustrative purposes only, as is the arrangement of four apertures <NUM> above the reinforcement feature <NUM> and three apertures to each side of the reinforcement feature <NUM>. It should be appreciated that any number of apertures <NUM> and accompanying fasteners <NUM> may be utilized to secure the doors <NUM> to the body <NUM>.

The embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of <FIG> also includes the rib <NUM> extending from the top <NUM> to the bottom <NUM>. It should be appreciated that, in various embodiments, a rib length <NUM>, a rib width <NUM>, and/or a rib thickness <NUM> may be particularly selected based on operating conditions. For example, the rib length <NUM> may not extend from the top <NUM> to the bottom <NUM> and may extend only along a portion of the body <NUM>. Furthermore, in embodiments, the rib thickness <NUM> may be adjusted. Additionally, while the rib <NUM> is illustrated as being substantially centered between the doors <NUM>, it should be appreciated that the rib <NUM> may be arranged at different locations. Additionally, the rib <NUM> may include both the illustrated vertical component and another horizontal component arranged substantially perpendicular to the vertical component. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may use the rib <NUM> in order to provide a strengthening or reinforcement to the front side <NUM> of the body <NUM>. For example, the rib <NUM> may stiffen the body <NUM>, which may help accommodate stresses and forces experienced during operation, installation of the rams, or removal of the rams.

The illustrated BOP <NUM> further includes an operator <NUM>, which may be referred to as a ram operator or an actuator. In various embodiments, the operator <NUM> drives linear movement of the ram through the body <NUM> of the BOP <NUM>. As will be described below, in various embodiments the operator <NUM> is coupled to the body <NUM> to facilitate operation of the BOP <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an embodiment of the body <NUM> illustrating the back side <NUM>. As described herein, the back side <NUM> is opposite the front side <NUM>. The illustrated back side <NUM> includes a plurality of outlets <NUM>, which may be utilized to receive tubulars to regulate choke and/or kill of the BOP <NUM>. It should be appreciated the while the illustrated embodiment includes four outlets <NUM>, other embodiments may include <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or any reasonable number of outlets <NUM>. The outlets <NUM> are arranged on respective platforms <NUM> that extend away from the body <NUM>. The platforms <NUM> may describe reinforced areas that include additional material than the body <NUM>, which may provide further structural support. Additionally, the platforms <NUM> of the illustrated embodiment include respective faces <NUM> that are arranged at an angle <NUM> with respect to an axis <NUM> of the BOP <NUM>. The illustrated angles <NUM> point centerline <NUM> of the outlets <NUM> away from one another, which may facilitate coupling additional components, such as valves and the like, to the BOP <NUM>. That is, the angled configuration of the faces <NUM> may provide additional space to arrange components coupled to the faces <NUM>. As will be appreciated, because the front side <NUM> includes the doors <NUM>, which may be opened and closed for maintenance or other operations, it may be advantageous to include the outlets <NUM> on the back side <NUM>, away from the doors <NUM>, so that work on the doors <NUM> does not interfere with the outlets <NUM>.

In various embodiments not covered by the claimed invention, the back side <NUM> includes a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>, which are arranged at an angle <NUM> with respect to one another. This configuration may provide additional structural rigidity to the body <NUM>, while still reducing the total amount of material utilized to form the BOP <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first portion <NUM> is arranged proximate the operators <NUM> and is slanted or angled. The second portion <NUM> is arranged between the first portions <NUM> and is substantially flush or aligned with the front side <NUM>. It should be appreciated that other configurations, such as having the entire back side <NUM> being substantially parallel to the front side <NUM>, may be utilized.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the body <NUM>, in which various components have been removed for clarity, such as the door assemblies <NUM> and operators <NUM>. The illustrated body <NUM> differs from the views of <FIG> and <FIG> at least because only two door assemblies <NUM> would be utilized, rather than four, and only two operators <NUM> would be utilized. As noted above, a variety of different configurations may be utilized with embodiments of the present disclosure.

The illustrated embodiments not covered by the claimed invention include door openings <NUM> extending through the front side <NUM>. The door openings <NUM> including rounded edges <NUM>, which may facilitate with stress transfer, but it should be appreciated that the edges may be substantially <NUM> degrees or any other angle or finish that may be machined into the front face <NUM>. In various embodiments, the front face <NUM> is machined or otherwise worked to provide the door openings <NUM>, among other features. However, it should be appreciated that the body <NUM> may also be cast or formed to include the door openings <NUM> and/or other features.

Further illustrated in <FIG> is an operator opening <NUM>, which may receive a cylinder or piston to facilitate translating movement of the rams via the operators <NUM>. It should be appreciate that, much like the door openings <NUM>, the operator opening <NUM> may be forged, machined, and/or cast into the body <NUM>.

The illustrated body <NUM> includes an internal cavity <NUM>, which as will be described below, may include a top seat that receives the ram and enables movement of the ram within the cavity <NUM>. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that other features may be included, but have been eliminated for clarity. For example, various apertures may be formed in the body <NUM> to facilitate coupling of various features, such as the doors <NUM>, hinges <NUM>, operator <NUM>, and other elements. Furthermore, the rib <NUM> has been removed for clarity, but may be positioned between the door openings <NUM>.

<FIG> is a sectional perspective view of an embodiment of the body <NUM>, including the door opening <NUM> and a ram passage <NUM> within the internal cavity <NUM>. In various embodiments, a top seat <NUM> may form at least a portion of the internal cavity <NUM> and/or the ram passage <NUM>. The illustrated ram passage <NUM> is substantially rounded and may have an oval or elliptical shape. It should be appreciated that the ram passage <NUM> may be shaped to conform to at least a portion of the ram. As a result, a rounded edge <NUM> may have various features or diameter adjustments to conform to the ram.

Further illustrated in <FIG> is an outlet passage <NUM>, which may couple to the outlet <NUM> on the back side <NUM>. The outlet passage <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment is arranged longitudinally lower than the ram passage <NUM>. That is, the outlet passage <NUM> is closer to the bottom <NUM> than the ram passage <NUM>. In various embodiments, as will be described below, the outlet passage <NUM> may be arranged at an angle with respect to the axis <NUM>. While not illustrated in <FIG>, it should be appreciated that a variety of different surface finishes, coatings, and the like may be applied to the ram passage <NUM>, for example along the rounded edge <NUM>. Furthermore, a dimension of the ram passage <NUM> may be particularly selected based on expected operating conditions and the operator <NUM> selected for use.

<FIG> is a top plan view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the body <NUM>. The internal cavity <NUM>, including the ram passage <NUM>, is illustrated within the walls <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The illustrated embodiment includes the door openings <NUM> extending through the front side <NUM>. The outlets <NUM> have been removed for clarity. In various embodiments, dimensions of the internal cavity <NUM> may be adjusted based on expected operating conditions of the BOP <NUM>. For example, higher pressures may include thicker walls <NUM> and the like.

<FIG> include views of a cutting tool <NUM>, which may be utilized to form at least a portion of the body <NUM>, such as the ram passage <NUM> and/or the top seat <NUM>. For example, in various embodiments, features of the body <NUM> may be cast and then additional segments may be formed using the cutting tool <NUM>, as well as other tools. <FIG> is a front view of the cutting tool <NUM>, including a cutting head <NUM>. <FIG> is a side view of the cutting tool <NUM>. As illustrated, the cutting head <NUM> may be arranged at an angle <NUM> with respect to a tool body <NUM>. For example, the cutting tool <NUM> may be referred to as a <NUM>-degree cutting tool because an axis <NUM> of the cutting head <NUM> is arranged at the angle <NUM> with respect to a tool body axis <NUM>. In operation, a diameter <NUM> of the cutting head <NUM> may include a blade or cutting features to remove material from the body <NUM> in response to rotational movement about the axis <NUM>. The diameter <NUM> may be adjusted, in various embodiments, to change the size of the top seat <NUM>. For example, different cutting heads <NUM> may be coupled to the tool body <NUM>.

Machining operations may include inserting the cutting tool <NUM> into the door openings <NUM> to form at least a portion of the top seat <NUM> within the internal cavity <NUM>. This <NUM>-degree cutting operation may present challenges, since typical top seat machining processes are performed substantially parallel to the opening that receives the cutting tool <NUM>. As a result, features of the cutting tool <NUM> may be particularly selected to accommodate vibration, deflection, and the like. For example, a body width <NUM>, a body height <NUM>, and a body length <NUM> may be selected to absorb vibration and reduce deflection. As a result, the cutting tool <NUM> may be inserted into the door openings <NUM> and then moved along an axis of the operator opening <NUM> to machine the top seat <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top plan view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the body <NUM> that includes the cutting tool <NUM> extending into the internal cavity <NUM> via the door opening <NUM>. As shown, the axis <NUM> of the cutting head <NUM> is substantially parallel to an operator opening axis <NUM>, while the tool body axis <NUM> is substantially perpendicular to the operator opening axis <NUM>. The cutting tool <NUM> may be installed through the door opening <NUM> and then moved along the operator opening axis <NUM> to form at least a portion of the top seat <NUM> and/or the ram passage <NUM>. As noted above, this machining method differs from traditional techniques in that the tool body axis <NUM> is substantially perpendicular to the operator opening axis <NUM>, which generates challenges associated with the deflection and vibration of the cutting tool <NUM> during operation. However, embodiments of the present disclosure include particularly selected component sizes and materials to absorb vibration and/or deflections. In various embodiments, a cutting head distance <NUM> is sufficient to enable movement along the operator opening axis <NUM> for a door opening width <NUM> to form at least a portion of the ram passage <NUM> and/or the top seat <NUM> and then to allow the rest of the ram passage <NUM> and/or top seat <NUM> formation through the other door opening <NUM>. In other words, a portion is formed through the first door opening 400A and a second portion through the second door opening 400B.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the cutting tool <NUM> extending into the internal cavity <NUM> to form at least a portion of the ram passage <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the rounded edge <NUM> conforms to the diameter <NUM> of the cutting head <NUM>, thereby facilitating formation of the top seat <NUM>. It should be appreciated that, in various embodiments, the ram passage <NUM> may include a top portion <NUM> and a bottom portion <NUM>, which may each have a different top radial distance <NUM> and bottom radial distance <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the top portion <NUM> may be substantially equal to the bottom portion <NUM>. Furthermore, in embodiments, a portion may be cast with the other portion may be machined. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the machining and/or casting method may be particularly selected to minimize machining operations and to reduce costs. In operation, the cutting tool <NUM> moves along the operator opening axis <NUM> to from at least a portion of the rounded edge <NUM> of the top seat <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an embodiment of the BOP <NUM> including the door assembly <NUM> arranged on the front side <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the door assembly <NUM> includes the door <NUM> and the hinges <NUM>, which allow the door <NUM> to move between the illustrated closed position and an open position (<FIG>). The illustrated door <NUM> is arranged substantially flush on the front side <NUM>, thereby forming a seal at the door opening <NUM>. In various embodiments, the apertures <NUM> on the door face <NUM> enable fasteners to couple the door <NUM> to the front side <NUM>. As noted above, it should be appreciated that there may be a different number of apertures <NUM> and they may be arranged in different locations on the face <NUM>. Furthermore, in embodiments, a different locking mechanism, such as a latch with a pad lock or the like, may be utilized in place of or in addition to the apertures <NUM>.

In operation, the hinges <NUM> support the door <NUM> and may be particularly selected to receive the weight of the door <NUM>, and in embodiments, other components such as the rams that may apply forces to the door <NUM>, as will be described in detail below. The hinges <NUM> include a hinge body <NUM> and a hinge coupling <NUM>. The hinge body <NUM> is coupled to the hinge coupling <NUM> at an interface <NUM>, which may include a rotational axis <NUM> for the door <NUM>. In various embodiments, a pin or the like may be arranged at the interface <NUM> to enable the door to rotate bout the axis <NUM>. In various embodiments, the hinge coupling <NUM> is secured to the door <NUM>, for example, via couplings or the like. The hinge body <NUM> may also be secured to the body <NUM> via couplings or the like, which have been removed in the illustrated embodiment for clarity.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the door <NUM> arranged in the open position. As opposed to the view of <FIG>, the door <NUM> in <FIG> has been rotated about the rotational axis <NUM> to move the door <NUM> away from the front side <NUM> of the body <NUM>. For example, the fasteners may be removed from the apertures <NUM> to enable the door <NUM> to move away from the <NUM>. As noted above, the hinges <NUM> support the weight of the door <NUM> and any associated components. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, hinge bodies <NUM> and hinge couplings <NUM> are arranged at both a top and bottom of the door <NUM>. It should be appreciated that while the illustrated open position arranges the door <NUM> at substantially a <NUM> degree angle with the front side <NUM>, in other embodiments the angle may be greater or less than <NUM> degrees.

<FIG> is a top plan view of an embodiment of the BOP <NUM> illustrating the door assemblies <NUM> having the doors <NUM> in a closed position <NUM>, an open position <NUM> (phantom lines), and a maintenance position <NUM>. In various embodiments, a rotation mechanism <NUM> may be utilized to facilitate rotation of the doors <NUM> and/or to maintain the doors <NUM> in a particular position.

The illustrated embodiment not covered by the claimed invention includes the front side <NUM> with the rib <NUM> positioned between the door assemblies <NUM>. On the opposite side, the back side <NUM> is positioned with the platforms <NUM>. In various embodiments, the movement of the doors <NUM> may provide a stress to the body <NUM>. However, as described above, various features of the BOP <NUM>, such as the rib <NUM>, first portion <NUM>, second portion <NUM>, or the like may be utilized to reduce stresses to enable operation of the BOP <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, not covered by the claimed invention the door <NUM> is arranged in the closed position <NUM>, and as a result, the door <NUM> is positioned against the front side <NUM>. The illustrated embodiment includes fasteners <NUM> to secure the door <NUM> to the front side <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the door <NUM> is arranged proximate the rib <NUM> when in the closed position <NUM>. Further illustrated is movement of the door <NUM> to the open position <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the door <NUM> extends away from the front side <NUM> such that the hinge coupling <NUM> is substantially perpendicular to the front side <NUM>. In various embodiments, the hinge <NUM> enables rotation of the door <NUM> about the axis <NUM> to transition between the closed position <NUM> and the open position. Further illustrated is the maintenance position <NUM>, where the door <NUM> is substantially clear of the front side <NUM> to provide access the front side <NUM> and/or the internal cavity <NUM>. In the illustrated maintenance position <NUM>, the hinge coupling <NUM> is substantially parallel to the front side <NUM>, much like in the closed position <NUM>. However, as shown, the door <NUM> transitions away from the front side <NUM> such that the door <NUM> is substantially <NUM> degrees away from the front side <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the hinge <NUM> includes the rotation mechanism <NUM>, which may limit rotation of the door <NUM> and/or maintain a desired position of the door <NUM>. The rotation mechanism <NUM> is illustrated with a body region <NUM>, which is substantially curved. The body region <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> at a first end <NUM> and an opening <NUM> at a second end <NUM>. The openings <NUM>, <NUM> may receive a pin, which locks the door <NUM> in position. In the illustrated embodiment, the pin may extend through the opening <NUM>, when the door <NUM> is in the open position <NUM>, to secure the door <NUM> in the open position. Similarly, the pin may extend through opening <NUM> when the door is in the maintenance position <NUM> to secure the door <NUM> in the maintenance position. That is, as the door <NUM> rotates from the closed position <NUM> to the open position <NUM>, an opening in the hinge coupling <NUM> may align with the opening <NUM> to receive the pin. In this manner, the door <NUM> may be secured at various different locations, which may simplify operations because operators may not be worried about moving the door <NUM> between different positions.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a portion of the door assembly <NUM>, including the door <NUM> and the hinge coupling <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge coupling 1002A is arranged at a top <NUM> of the door <NUM> and the hinge coupling 1002B is arranged at a bottom <NUM> of the door <NUM>. As a result, forces may be translated from the door to the hinge coupling <NUM>, which may further translate the forces to the hinge <NUM> and the body <NUM>. The illustrated hinge couplings <NUM> are coupled to the door <NUM> along an outer perimeter <NUM> via fasteners <NUM>. The illustrated door <NUM> includes receptacles <NUM> to receive the fasteners <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacles <NUM> are arranged to enable modularity of the door <NUM>. In other words, the receptacles <NUM> are arranged to receive the hinge coupling <NUM> at either a first side <NUM> or a second side <NUM>. In this manner, fewer different parts may be utilized for the BOP <NUM>.

The illustrated embodiment includes the apertures <NUM> extending through the door <NUM>. An inner face <NUM> includes an extension <NUM> that extends along a door axis <NUM> away from the inner face <NUM>. The illustrated extension <NUM> may provide further structural rigidity, for example, due to the ram extending from the door <NUM>. It should be appreciated that an area of the extension <NUM> may be particularly selected based on dimensions of the door <NUM>, among other factors. The extension <NUM> includes a recess <NUM> that receives a T-bar <NUM>. For example, a bottom end <NUM> of the T-bar <NUM>, opposite the top end <NUM>, may be positioned within the recess <NUM>. The T-bar <NUM> may be coupled to the extension <NUM> via fasteners <NUM>. As a result, the door <NUM> may further include the T-bar <NUM> on the inner face <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the T-bar <NUM> extends a bar length <NUM> along the door axis <NUM>. The T-bar <NUM> also includes a bar width <NUM> and a first bar height <NUM> and a second bar height <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the second bar height <NUM> is greater than the first bar height <NUM>. In operation, the T-bar <NUM> may be utilized to receive or position the rams prior to installation within the inner cavity <NUM>.

The embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the door <NUM> further includes a seal groove <NUM> arranged about the extension <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiments, the apertures <NUM> are arranged between the seal groove <NUM> and the edges of the door <NUM>. The position of the seal groove <NUM> may be particularly selected based on a size of the apertures <NUM> and/or the extension <NUM>. The location of the seal groove <NUM> provides a sufficient squeeze of a seal while also being positioned independent of and out of the way of the apertures <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of an embodiment of the door assembly <NUM> including the door <NUM>. The illustrated door <NUM> is coupled to the hinges <NUM>, for example via the hinge coupling <NUM>. The door <NUM> is arranged to rotate about the axis <NUM>. In various embodiments, rotation is at least partially regulated by the rotation mechanism <NUM>, which may include a first opening <NUM> that receives a pin <NUM> to lock the door <NUM> into position.

The illustrated door <NUM> includes a stiffener <NUM> on an exterior face <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffener <NUM> extends laterally away from the exterior face <NUM> along the door axis <NUM>. Further illustrated is the T-bar <NUM> coupled to the extension <NUM> via the fastener <NUM>. As illustrated, the T-bar <NUM> includes the bar length <NUM> and the first bar height <NUM> and the second bar height <NUM>. As will be described, the T-bar <NUM> may be utilized to position and retrieve the block from the internal cavity <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the T-bar <NUM> arranged proximate the door opening <NUM>. The T-bar <NUM> is coupled to the extension <NUM> of the door <NUM>. As illustrated, the bar length <NUM> enables at least a portion of the T-bar <NUM> to extend beyond the door opening <NUM> when the door <NUM> is in the open position. In various embodiments, the T-bar <NUM> is substantially aligned with a piston associated with the operator <NUM>. That is, a height from the door opening <NUM> may be substantially equal between the T-bar <NUM> and the piston.

<FIG> is a side view of an embodiment of a ram block <NUM> positioned on the T- bar <NUM> proximate the door opening <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the ram block <NUM> includes a slot <NUM> that receives the top end <NUM> of the T-bar <NUM>. As a result, weight from the ram block <NUM> may be distributed to the door <NUM>. Accordingly, it may be easier to install the ram block <NUM> without additional equipment, such as a crane. Installation is therefore cheaper and easier for operations personnel. In various embodiments, a tool or the like may engage either the slot <NUM> or other feature on the ram block <NUM> in order to facilitate installation and removal. As shown, the T-bar <NUM> substantially aligns the ram block <NUM> with the door opening <NUM> to enable movement of the ram block <NUM> into the internal cavity <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of an embodiment of the ram block <NUM> arranged within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the ram block <NUM> is transitioned along the T-bar <NUM> and is deposited into the internal cavity <NUM>, for example at an end of a piston associated with the operator <NUM>. For example, the ram block <NUM> may be driven into the internal cavity <NUM> using the T-bar <NUM> as a guide and/or support, thereby reducing the force utilized to install the ram block <NUM>. Moreover, in various embodiments, additional tools and the like may be utilized for installation of the ram block <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the ram block <NUM> full installed within the internal cavity and coupled to a piston <NUM>. As shown, there is no longer a connection between the T-bar <NUM> and the slot <NUM>, compared to <FIG> and <FIG>. As a result, the ram block <NUM> may be supported by the piston <NUM>, which may also align with the slot <NUM>. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the piston <NUM> may be utilized to drive axial movement of the ram block <NUM> within the ram passage <NUM>.

<FIG> are top views of an installation process of the ram block <NUM> utilizing the door <NUM> as a support for the installation. In the illustrated embodiment, the ram block <NUM> is transitioned into the internal cavity <NUM> using the door <NUM> as a support, specifically, the T-bar <NUM> is utilized to guide the ram block <NUM> into the internal cavity <NUM> and into contact with a head <NUM> of the piston <NUM>. The embodiment of <FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> outside of the internal cavity <NUM> and supported by the door <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the T-bar <NUM> is positioned within the slot <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> being slid toward the internal cavity <NUM> via the door opening <NUM>. The ram block <NUM> continues to be supported by the door <NUM>, and in certain embodiments, at least a portion of the force from the weight of the ram block <NUM> may be transferred the body <NUM>. That is, the ram block <NUM> may contact the body <NUM> and be supported by both the door <NUM> and the body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> arranged within the internal cavity <NUM> and no longer coupled to the door <NUM>. The ram block <NUM> engages the piston head <NUM>, for example, via the slot <NUM>. The ram block <NUM> may be supported by the body <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> arranged within the ram passage <NUM>. The ram block <NUM> is arranged on the piston <NUM> via the piston head <NUM>. In embodiments, one or more tools or fasteners may be utilized to couple the ram block <NUM> to the piston head to maintain alignment. However, in other embodiments, the arrangement within the slot <NUM> and weight of the ram block <NUM> may be sufficient to keep the ram block <NUM> in position.

<FIG> illustrate side views of the installation of the ram block <NUM>. As described above, in various embodiments, the ram block <NUM> may be translated from a position outside of the body to the ram passage <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> arranged on the T-bar <NUM> and supported by the door <NUM>. As noted above, the height <NUM> of the T-bar <NUM> may be substantially aligned with the piston <NUM> to facilitate installation of the ram block <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, a stepped entry <NUM> may be formed, wherein a first location <NUM> is at a different elevation than a second location <NUM>. The second location <NUM> may correspond to the ram passage <NUM>, at least in part, and facilitate installation by providing reduced friction forces as the ram block <NUM> is coupled to the piston head <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> being moved toward the internal cavity <NUM> along the T-bar <NUM>. As the ram block <NUM> contacts the body <NUM>, such as at the first portion <NUM>, at least a portion of the force of the ram block <NUM> is transmitted to the body <NUM>. Installation within the internal cavity <NUM> generates a friction force as the ram block <NUM> is driven into position. <FIG> illustrates movement of the ram block <NUM> into the internal cavity <NUM>. The different in heights between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> is illustrated as a portion of the ram block <NUM> hangs over the second portion <NUM> without contacting the second portion <NUM>. In embodiments, the ram block <NUM> is still coupled to the door <NUM>, via the T-bar <NUM>, in the illustrated embodiment. In <FIG>, the ram block <NUM> is no longer connected to the door <NUM>. The piston head <NUM> is illustrated as engaging the slot <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the ram block <NUM> arranged within the ram passage <NUM> and coupled to the piston head <NUM>. As described above, in various embodiments the ram block <NUM> may be further secured to the piston head <NUM>. In operation, the door <NUM> may be closed after installation to enable operation of the BOP <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side elevational view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the operator <NUM> arranged on a lifting mechanism <NUM>, which in the illustrated embodiment is a strap. In operation, the operator <NUM>, which may be a hydraulic actuator that drives the piston <NUM>, may be aligned with the operator opening <NUM>. In embodiments, the operator <NUM> may be a single or tandem operator. A frame <NUM> of the operator may be secured to the body <NUM>, for example via fasteners, as illustrated above.

<FIG> is a side elevational view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the operator <NUM> including an alignment pin <NUM> along with coupling confirmation system <NUM>. In various embodiments, the alignment pin <NUM> may be utilized to align the operator <NUM> to the body <NUM>. For example, the alignment pin <NUM> may be an extension that mates with an opening formed in the body <NUM> to indicate a preferred or predetermined alignment of the operator <NUM> with respect to the body.

The illustrated coupling confirmation system <NUM> includes a rod <NUM> extending along a length <NUM> of the operator. The rod <NUM> may include threaded portions and, in various embodiments, one or more mating features for coupling to an installation tool, such as a wrench or driver. The rod <NUM> includes an indicator <NUM>, arranged proximate an area that will be secured to the body <NUM>. The indicator <NUM> includes a nut <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment, but it should be appreciated that other indicators may be utilized. In operation, a relative position of the nut <NUM> may provide a visual indication that the rod <NUM> has been attached to the body <NUM>, thereby securing the operator <NUM> to the body <NUM>.

<FIG> are schematic side views illustrating operation of the coupling confirmation system <NUM>. In the embodiment not covered by the claimed invention illustrated in <FIG>, the nut <NUM> is visible through an indicator slot <NUM> formed in the operator frame <NUM>. The relative position of the nut <NUM> within the indicator slot <NUM> provides a visual indication of whether or not the rod <NUM> has been secured to the body <NUM>. For example, the position illustrated in <FIG> illustrates that the rod <NUM> is not assembled into the body <NUM>, while the position illustrated in <FIG> illustrates the rod <NUM> is assembled into the body <NUM>. That is, the nut <NUM> backs off as the rod <NUM> is installed. Accordingly, operators may quickly and effectively identify operations in the field to determine whether the operators <NUM> are operational.

<FIG> is a top plan view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the BOP <NUM>, which may share one or more features with the BOP illustrated herein, such as in <FIG>. The illustrated BOP <NUM> includes the body <NUM> having the front side <NUM> and the back side <NUM>. As noted above, the terms "front" and "back" are used for illustrative purposes only and that, in various embodiments, different configurations may be deemed the front or back of the body <NUM>. In this example, door assemblies <NUM> are arranged on both the front and back sides <NUM>, <NUM> to enable respective doors <NUM> to rotate about hinges <NUM> to provide access to an interior chamber of the body <NUM>, as described in detail above.

Further illustrated are the operators <NUM> coupled to the body <NUM>. As described above, the operators <NUM> are utilized to transition the ram blocks <NUM> between inactive and active positions. The illustrated operators <NUM> are arranged on planar ends <NUM> of the body <NUM>, similar to the configuration shown, by way of example, in <FIG>. Movement of the ram blocks <NUM>, as a result, may be substantially perpendicular to the planar ends <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, not covered by the claimed invention, each of the front and back sides <NUM>, <NUM> include the face <NUM>, which may be referred to as a planar face <NUM> in various embodiments. Additionally, each of the front and back sides <NUM>, <NUM> include an angled face <NUM>, which may be substantially similar to the angled faces <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, in that the angled faces <NUM> facilitate coupling of the outlines <NUM> such that the outlet centerlines <NUM> are arranged at respective angles <NUM> (e.g., the angle <NUM>) from a first plane <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Accordingly, as opposed to the configurations shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the respective door assemblies <NUM> may be arranged on both the front and back sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In various embodiments, the illustrated embodiment enables maintenance operations on both sides of the body <NUM> with a reduced likelihood of interference between operations personnel. That is, operations personnel may be separated by a larger distance, thereby reducing the likelihood of interference or other operational impairments. Furthermore, the arrangement of the outlets <NUM> may provide sufficient clearance for the door assemblies <NUM> to facilitate rotational movement of the doors <NUM> to provide access to interior portions of the body <NUM>, as described above.

Embodiments of the present disclosure not covered by the claimed invention may position the outlets <NUM> directly onto the body <NUM> without the addition of the platforms <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. However, it should be appreciated that the platforms may also be incorporated into the configuration shown in <FIG> and that, in various embodiments, the platforms may provide additional material to further strengthen or enhance operational capacity of the BOP <NUM>. In this configuration, the outlets <NUM> extend an axial distance <NUM> that is farther away from the body <NUM> (e.g., a midpoint of the body <NUM>) than a second axial distance <NUM> of the doors <NUM> (e.g., farther than the exterior face <NUM> and/or the stiffener <NUM>). It should be appreciated that this may enable operators to make connections to the outlets <NUM> that are clear of a movement plane of the doors <NUM>, which further facilitates multiple crews performing simultaneous maintenance operation on the BOP <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, as noted above, the body <NUM> includes the planar faces <NUM> and the angled faces <NUM>. The illustrated angled face <NUM> is arranged at a face angle <NUM> with respect to the first plane <NUM>. In contrast, the planar face <NUM> is arranged at approximately <NUM> degrees from the first plane <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the position of the respective angled faces <NUM> and planar faces <NUM> are offset about the first plane <NUM> and about a second plane <NUM>. That is, each respective side of the planes <NUM>, <NUM> includes one of the planar faces <NUM> and one of the angled faces <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this configuration is for illustrative purposes, and in other embodiments, both of the planar faces <NUM> may be on a side of the first plane <NUM> and/or both of the planar faces <NUM> may be on a side of the second plane <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>.

In this embodiment, the door assembly <NUM> is illustrating with a tether <NUM> that couples the pin <NUM> to the hinge <NUM>. As a result, the likelihood of losing or otherwise misplacing the plan may be reduced. The tether <NUM> may be flexible, such as an elastomer, or may be a rigid or semi-rigid component. It should be appreciated that the tether <NUM> is provided as one example for maintaining a close relationship between the pin <NUM> and the hinge <NUM>, but other embodiments may using different methods, such as sliding features (e.g., where the pin <NUM> slides between different positions, a rigidly fastened spring loaded pin, multiple pins that block entry of adjacent pins, or the like).

<FIG> is front elevational view of an embodiment not covered by the claimed invention of the BOP <NUM> illustrating the door assemblies <NUM> and the outlets <NUM> arranged on the front side <NUM> of the body <NUM>. As noted above, various features of <FIG> have already been described, such as in <FIG>, and will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, a first side <NUM> (e.g., first half, first portion) includes the door assemblies <NUM> arranged on the planar face <NUM> and a second side <NUM> includes the outlets <NUM> arranged on the angled face <NUM>. As noted above, this configuration is for illustrative purposes and, in various embodiments, the door assemblies <NUM> may be arranged on the angled face <NUM>. In this embodiment, a door vertical height <NUM> is greater than an outlet vertical height <NUM> for each door assembly <NUM> and outlet <NUM> pair. For example, the door assembly 206A and the outlet 300A may be referred to as a pair and the door assembly 206B and the outlet 300B may be referred to as a pair. The door vertical height <NUM> refers to a distance from the flange <NUM> to a door midpoint <NUM>, which may be substantially aligned with the axis <NUM> (<FIG>). The outlet vertical height <NUM> refers to a distance from the flange <NUM> to the centerline <NUM>. Accordingly, each of the door assemblies <NUM> (e.g., door midpoints <NUM>) are arranged higher than the outlets <NUM> for each respective pair. This configuration may provide additional room for the inclusion of equipment and the like. However, it should be appreciated that different configurations may include door vertical heights <NUM> that are equal to or less than the outlet vertical heights <NUM>. Moreover, respective vertical heights <NUM>, <NUM> may not be equal, with one pair having the heights <NUM>, <NUM> being different while another may have the heights <NUM>, <NUM> be different. Accordingly, various configurations may be incorporated within the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, the doors <NUM> may be substantially centered with respect to the planar face <NUM>, while the outlets <NUM> (e.g., the outlet centerline <NUM>) are closer to the first plane <NUM> than to the planar ends <NUM>. This configuration may be particularly selected based on the internal geometry of the body <NUM> and other operational factors. For example, there may be two outlets per cavity in this configuration. It should be appreciated that other configurations may include outlets <NUM> that are substantially centered on the angled face <NUM> and/or closer to the planar ends <NUM>. Furthermore, as noted above, the outlets <NUM> may be in different positions in different embodiments and may not be aligned as illustrated in <FIG>.

Claim 1:
A blowout preventer (BOP) for controlling pressure within a wellbore, comprising:
an internal cavity (<NUM>);
a front side (<NUM>) including a door opening (<NUM>), the door opening (<NUM>) providing access to the internal cavity (<NUM>);
a door (<NUM>) associated with the door opening (<NUM>), the door (<NUM>) being movable between a first position and a second position, the door blocking access to the internal cavity (<NUM>) in the first position and enabling access to the internal cavity (<NUM>) in the second position; and
a hinge (<NUM>) coupled to the door (<NUM>), the hinge comprising:
a hinge body (<NUM>), the hinge body (<NUM>) secured to a body (<NUM>) of the BOP; and
a hinge coupling (<NUM>) coupled to the door (<NUM>),
the blowout preventer (BOP) characterised in that the hinge further comprises:
a rotation mechanism (<NUM>) arranged at an interface (<NUM>) between the hinge body (<NUM>) and the hinge coupling (<NUM>), the rotation mechanism (<NUM>) securing the door (<NUM>) in the second position or in a third position, the third position enabling access to the internal cavity (<NUM>).