Patent ID: 12234723

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the present disclosure are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but rather these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of certain disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the present disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present invention, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to.” Also, any use of any form of the terms “connect,” “engage,” “couple,” “attach,” or any other term describing an interaction between elements is intended to mean either an indirect or a direct interaction between the elements described. In addition, as used herein, the terms “axial” and “axially” generally mean along or parallel to a central axis (e.g., central axis of a body or a port), while the terms “radial” and “radially” generally mean perpendicular to the central axis. For instance, an axial distance refers to a distance measured along or parallel to the central axis, and a radial distance means a distance measured perpendicular to the central axis. The use of “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” and variations of these terms is made for convenience but does not require any particular orientation of the components.

Certain terms are used throughout the description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name, but not function.

In certain embodiments, as discussed in further detail below, a subsea tree with a feedthrough system (e.g., Electrical Feedthrough System (EFS), Optical Feedthrough System (OFS)) cap may be to allow an introduction of feedthrough connections into the subsea tree (e.g., horizontal subsea tree) in a subsea completion system without impacting the main subsea tree body. The feedthrough system cap (e.g., EFS cap, OFS cap) may be suitable for subsea tree developments in new wells. Additionally, or alternatively, the feedthrough system cap may also be integrated into brownfield wells currently producing with existing subsea trees.

In contrast to the disclosed embodiments, in tree systems such as the horizontal tree system, feedthrough systems may be passed through a horizontal penetration system through the tree body into the tubing hanger. In the disclosed embodiments, as discussed in further detail below, the OFS cap may provide additional downhole functions directly through a tubing hanger, bypassing the tree body. Furthermore, the OFS cap may be installed using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) in a subsea environment. This may result in a low-cost installation method, especially when considered for deep water developments where the use of dedicated installation tooling and vessels may add significant costs.

As discussed below, the OFS cap may be used in subsea horizontal tree systems. For instance, a wet-mate OFS plug located on a bottom of the OFS cap may connect to a corresponding receptacle located in a top of the tubing hanger, where a dedicated drilling may pass a communication line (e.g., fiber-optic cable) through the tubing hanger and downhole into a completion system. Passing the communication line through the tubing hanger and not the tree body may allow for retrofit completion changeouts for existing wells without disturbing the tree. In certain embodiments, the feedthrough system cap may be used to incorporate additional third-party feedthrough system (e.g., optical systems and/or traditional electrical feedthrough systems), giving the ability to further enhance completion/reservoir monitoring for new and existing well developments.

With the forgoing in mind,FIG.1is a schematic diagram of a subsea well system20(e.g., hydrocarbon well system) having a feedthrough system cap with various improvements as discussed in further detail below. The illustrated embodiment is intended as only one possible non-limiting example for the feedthrough system cap (e.g., tree cap38) that has the unique features described herein. As appreciated, the feedthrough system cap (e.g., tree cap38) described herein may be mounted in any suitable component of the subsea well system20, and thus the following discussion ofFIG.1is intended to provide one possible context for the feedthrough system cap (e.g., tree cap38). Accordingly, prior to a detailed discussion of the tree cap38improvements, the subsea well system20and its components are discussed to provide context for the tree cap38. The subsea well system20may be configured to extract various natural resources, such as minerals and hydrocarbons (e.g., oil and/or natural gas), from the earth. Additionally or alternatively, the subsea well system20may be configured to inject substances (e.g., water, carbon dioxide, chemicals) into the earth.

As shown, the subsea well system20may include a variety of components, such as a subsea tree22(e.g., a horizontal subsea tree) positioned over a wellhead24at a subsea surface/mudline26. The subsea tree22(sometimes referred to in the oil and gas industry as a Christmas tree) may include a variety of flow paths (e.g., bores), valves, fittings, and controls for operating a well28. For instance, the subsea tree22may include a frame that is disposed about a tree body, a flow-loop, actuators, and valves. Further, the subsea tree22may be in fluid communication with the well28. As illustrated, a production bore23extends through the subsea tree22, a tubing hanger31, and production tubing30. The production bore23provides for completion and workover procedures, such as the insertion of tools into the wellhead24, the injection of various chemicals into the well28, and the like. Further, natural resources extracted from the well28(e.g., oil and/or natural gas) may be regulated and routed via the subsea tree22. For instance, the subsea tree22include various valves, such as a production master valve (PMV)25, a production wing valve (PWV)27, and other valves (e.g., annulus swap valve, workover valve, annulus access valve, cross-over valve, annulus wing valve, annulus master valve, surface-controlled subsurface safety valve, and so on). In some embodiments, the subsea tree22may be coupled to a jumper or a flowline that is tied back to other components, such as a manifold. Accordingly, extracted natural resources flow from the well28to the manifold via the subsea tree22before being routed to shipping or storage facilities.

The wellhead24may be positioned over the well28in which the production tubing30is suspended from the tubing hanger31. The wellhead24may include multiple components that control and regulate activities and conditions associated with the well28. For example, the wellhead24may include bodies, valves, and seals that route extracted natural resources from a resource deposit, provide for regulating pressure in the well28, and/or provide for the injection of the substances into the earth.

In the illustrated example, the production tubing30and a well casing32establish flow passages, such as a subsurface production flow passage34and an annulus flow passage36. The production flow passage34and the annulus flow passage36are continued up through the subsea tree22and fluid flow therethrough may be controlled via corresponding valves (e.g., annulus gate valves and production gate valves). In some wells28, the annulus flow passage36is between the production tubing30and well casing32and is concentrically located about the production flow passage34within production tubing30.

In the embodiment illustrated, the subsea well system20may also include a tree cap38, which may be releasably deployed into engagement with the subsea tree22via a remotely operated vehicle (ROV)40having an ROV manipulator41. The ROV manipulator41may facilitate an installation of the tree cap38. The subsea well system20may further include an interface component42that may provide connections and/or communications between the ROV manipulator41and the subsea well system20to facilitate an installation of a feedthrough system (e.g., optical, electrical, or optical and electrical hybrid feedthrough system) on the tree cap38. Additional details of the installation of the feedthrough system are described below with respect toFIGS.2-14. To facilitate discussion, the subsea well system20and its components may be described with reference to an axial axis or direction50, a radial axis or direction52, and a circumferential axis or direction54.

As mentioned above, the tree cap38may include an optical feedthrough system (OFS) allowing an introduction of various optical feedthrough connections or communications into the subsea tree22without impacting the main subsea tree body. The tree cap38with the optical feedthrough system may provide deployment of fiber-optic systems for multi-function downhole sensing. For instance, a wet-mate OFS plug located on the bottom of the tree cap38connects to a corresponding receptacle located in a top of the tubing hanger31where a dedicated drilling passes a communication line (e.g., fiber-optic cable) through the main subsea tree body and downhole into the completion. Passing the OFS line through the tubing hanger31and not the main subsea tree body allows for retrofit completion changeouts for existing wells without disturbing the subsea tree22. In other words, the tree cap38may be used in any existing horizontal tree system if a compatible tubing hanger is in place in the tree and a compatible tubing hanger may be retrofitted onto the existing tree.

Though shown herein deployed in a horizontal tree, the tree cap38may be deployed in brownfield wells currently producing with a horizontal tree system. In certain embodiments, the tree cap38with the feedthrough system (optical and/or electrical feedthrough system) may be deployed (e.g., with corresponding modifications) in a vertical Christmas tree system. It should be noted that the components described above with regard to the subsea well system20are examples and the subsea well system20may include additional or fewer components relative to the illustrated embodiment. Embodiments with various implementations of the tree cap38are discussed in further detail below. For instance,FIGS.2-5illustrate a fixed lower body embodiment of the tree cap38,FIGS.6-9illustrate an extensible lower body embodiment of the tree cap38, andFIGS.10-14illustrate another extensible lower body embodiment of the tree cap38.

FIG.2is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subsea tree22with a feedthrough system cap38A. The feedthrough system cap38A includes an actuation assembly or actuator60, an energizing assembly or energizer62, a locking assembly or lock64(e.g., internal landing lock), a monitoring system or monitor66, a protective feedthrough sleeve68, a guide funnel70(e.g., annular guide funnel), and a landing body106(e.g., central annular landing body). As discussed in further detail below, the actuator60is configured to actuate the energizer62, which in turn energizes the lock64to move between locked and unlocked positions relative to the subsea tree22. The monitor66is configured to help monitor the landing, actuating, energizing, and locking of the feedthrough system cap38A relative to the subsea tree22. The protective feedthrough sleeve68is configured to protect a feedthrough cable or line, which passes through the feedthrough system cap38A into the subsea tree22. The protective feedthrough sleeve68also connects the landing body106to the guide funnel70. The actuator60, the energizer62, the lock64, and the landing body106may be disposed substantially or entirely inside of the guide funnel70and inside of the subsea tree22, while the guide funnel70is configured to be disposed outside of the subsea tree22. The actuator60may be configured to actuate the energizer62via a rotational drive, an axial drive, or a combination thereof, to provide rotational and/or axial motion to move the energizer62. The energizer62may be configured to move axially and/or rotationally to energize the lock64. As discussed below, the energizer62may be guided in an axial direction to move only axially in response to rotational motion of the actuator60. The lock64may be a radial lock with one or more radial locking elements, which are configured to move radially between locked and unlocked positions relative to the subsea tree22. The landing body106may be an annular landing body supporting the lock64and the energizer62. For example, as discussed below, the energizer62may be coupled to the landing body106via one or more axial guides61, which enable axial movement of the energizer62relative to the landing body106while blocking rotational movement of the energizer62relative to the landing body106. The lock64also may be coupled to the landing body106and configured to move radially relative to the landing body106in response to movement of the energizer62. Various details of the feedthrough system cap38A are discussed below.

The guide funnel70may provide alignment and protection for various components (e.g., the landing body106, interface component42, optical and/or electrical connectors) during an installation of the feedthrough system cap38A on the subsea tree22. A connector39(e.g., feedthrough line connector) is positioned on the guide funnel70, thereby providing a connection for the feedthrough lines deployed in the subsea tree22. The feedthrough lines may include electrical lines, optical lines, data and communication lines, fluid lines (e.g., liquid and/or gas lines), sensor lines, control lines, hybrid lines, or any combination thereof. The guide funnel70may be adapted for interface with the ROV40and the ROV manipulator41via the interface component42.

The guide funnel70includes a top72(e.g., flat circular top plate, cover, or cap) and a side wall74(e.g., annular side wall). In some cases, the guide funnel70may include a tapered bottom76(e.g., bent away from an outer surface of the subsea tree22). For example, the tapered bottom76may include a diverging annular wall, such as a frustoconical wall, which increases in diameter axially away from the side wall74to define an enlarged opening. The tapered bottom76also may be described as a tapered entry guide or a tapered alignment guide, because the diverging annular wall accommodates some misalignment when lowering the guide funnel70onto the subsea tree22. The guide funnel70also includes a handle78(e.g., U-shaped or E-shaped handle) allowing the ROV40to carry (e.g., via a robotic arm) the feedthrough system cap38A during the installation of the feedthrough system cap38A. Moreover, the guide funnel70includes a viewing window80, which may be part of the monitor66, to allow a user (e.g., operator of the ROV40) to determine (e.g., via a camera, optical sensor, position sensor, contact sensor, etc.) whether the feedthrough system cap38A is fully landed (e.g., on top of the subsea tree22). The viewing window80may include one or more openings, such as circular or rectangular openings, at one or more locations to enable monitoring of the landing, actuating by the actuator60, energizing by the energizer62, and/or locking by the lock64. For example, the viewing window80may include an opening at the top72and/or the side wall74adjacent an intersection between the top72and the side wall74. In operation, the viewing window80enables the user to observe a relative position between the feedthrough system cap38A and the top of the subsea tree22and determine whether the feedthrough system cap38A is fully landed. In some cases, a processing unit (e.g., a processor with artificial intelligence) may process sensor feedback of the positions of the feedthrough system cap38A and the top of the subsea tree22and automatically determine whether the feedthrough system cap38A is fully landed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the guide funnel70includes an adapter82coupled to the top plate72in a central location to facilitate movement of the actuator60. The illustrated actuator60includes a central shaft84coupled to a top drive portion86and a bottom actuating portion88. The central shaft84is positioned inside the guide funnel70along a central axis81parallel to the axial axis50. A top drive portion86is positioned at least partially inside the adapter82and may be rotated hydraulically or mechanically (e.g., controlled by the ROV40), causing a rotation of the central shaft84around the central axis81. In certain embodiments, the top drive portion86includes a torque tool interface (e.g., a plurality of flats arranged in a square, a pentagon, or a hexagon) configured to engage with a corresponding torque tool interface of a torque tool of the ROV40. However, in some embodiments, the top drive portion86may include a torque tool. The torque tool of the ROV40or the top drive portion86may include an electric motor driven torque tool or a hydraulically driven torque tool. In operation, the torque tool is configured to rotate the central shaft84and the bottom actuating portion88of the actuator60. However, the actuator60may not axially move the central shaft84and the bottom actuating portion88while rotating via the torque tool. The bottom actuating portion88(e.g., cylindrical body) of the central shaft84is configured to engage with the energizer62to energize the lock64.

In the illustrated embodiment, the energizer62includes an energizing sleeve98(e.g., annular sleeve) coupled to the bottom actuating portion88at a threaded interface96, wherein external threads of the bottom actuating portion88engage with internal threads of the energizing sleeve98. In operation, the top drive portion86of the actuator60rotates the central shaft84and the bottom actuating portion88, thereby driving axial movement of the energizing sleeve98via rotation of the bottom actuating portion88along the threaded interface96. The axial position of the energizing sleeve98may be indicated by a side rod100(e.g., indicator rod of the monitor66) coupled to the energizing sleeve98and extending through the top plate72, wherein the side rod100is positioned at a radial offset distance (e.g., in the radial direction52) from the central shaft84. The energizing sleeve98is coupled to the landing body106via the one or more axial guides61, which enables relative axial movement of the energizing sleeve98relative to the landing body106while blocking relative rotational movement of the energizing sleeve98relative to the landing body106. Each axial guide61may include an axial protrusion disposed in an axial slot, wherein the axial protrusion and the axial slot are oriented in the axial direction50along the central axis81. The axial guides61also may limit the axial movement to an axial range or path of travel sufficient for energizing the lock64, while blocking axial separation between the energizing sleeve98and the landing body106. Accordingly, as the top drive portion86of the actuator60rotates the central shaft84, the bottom actuating portion88rotates along the threaded interface96with the energizing sleeve98while the axial guides61block rotation of the energizing sleeve98, and thus the energizing sleeve98moves axially along the axial guides61to energize radial movement of the lock64. As discussed in further detail below with reference toFIG.3, the lock64may include a plurality of radial locking elements extending through the landing body106to lock with the subsea tree22.

An indicator102(e.g., tip indicator of monitor66) may be positioned on top of the side rod100and through the top72of the guide funnel70. The indicator102may include one or more indicators using color indicators, text indicators, positional index indicators (e.g., a series of flat marks), or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the indicator102may indicate a position of the landing body106(e.g., when fully landed in the subsea tree22), a position of the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98) indicating whether the lock64is energized into a locked position relative to the subsea tree22, or a combination thereof. The indicator102may be viewed through the viewing window80of the monitor66, along the top72of the guide funnel70, or a combination thereof, using a monitoring system (e.g., camera, optical sensor, position sensor, contact sensor, etc.). The monitoring system may be coupled to the feedthrough system cap38A and/or the ROV40. Accordingly, the indicator102may indicate the position of the side rod100, the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98), the lock64, and/or the landing body106to the monitoring system, such that the user (e.g., operator of the ROV40) may determine the current status of landing, actuating, energizing, and/or locking of the feedthrough system cap38A relative to the subsea tree22.

The protective feedthrough sleeve68may include a sleeve portion110coupled to the top72of the guide funnel70, a sleeve portion112coupled to the landing body106, and a sleeve passage109disposed through the landing body106. The sleeve portion110, the sleeve portion112, and the sleeve passage109are axially in line and coupled together to pass and protect a feedthrough line118from the connector39to the subsea tree22. The feedthrough line118may include one or more optical lines, such as a fiber optic line. However, the feedthrough line118may include one or more electrical lines, data and communication lines, fluid lines (e.g., liquid and/or gas lines), sensor lines, control lines, hybrid lines, optical lines, or any combination thereof. The feedthrough line118may include a line connector108, such as a removable line coupling. For example, the line connector108may extend through the sleeve portion112and the sleeve passage109to facilitate a removable connection of the feedthrough line118with the feedthrough system cap38A and the subsea tree22. For example, the line connector108may include one or more connector portions (e.g., connector portions111and113), wherein the connector portion111is configured to removably couple with a mating connector portion120in the subsea tree22, and the connector portion113(if included) is configured to couple with the feedthrough line118in the sleeve portion110. The line connector108, including the connector portions111,113, and120, may include electrical connectors, optical connectors, fluid connectors, or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the connector portions111,113, and/or120include male couplings (e.g., plug), female couplings (e.g., plug receptacles), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the line connector108includes a wet-mate optical feedthrough system (OFS) plug configured to couple with the connector portion120(e.g., mating OFS receptacle) in the tubing hanger31. Thus, the feedthrough line118is configured to pass through the feedthrough system cap38A and the tubing hanger31using the various connectors (e.g., line connector108and connector portion120), wherein the feedthrough line118generally extends along the central axis81(e.g., in the axial direction50) rather than in a radial direction52through a sidewall of the subsea tree22.

In certain embodiments, the sleeve portions110and112are concentric with one another with one sleeve disposed about the other, such that the sleeve portions110and112are configured to move axially relative to one another to adjust an axial length of the protective feedthrough sleeve68. For example, the sleeve portion112may be disposed about the sleeve portion110, or vice versa. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the line connector108extends through the sleeve portion112and partially extends into the sleeve portion110, and the line connector108extends through the sleeve passage109and partially extends into the connector portion120in the subsea tree22. The line connector108may enable axial adjustments of the feedthrough line118, such that the sleeve portions110and112can move axially relative to one another to adjust an overall axial length of the protective feedthrough sleeve68while the line connector108axially adjusts the feedthrough line118to reduce the risk of damaging the feedthrough line118. Additionally, the line connector108may axially move to help provide some flexibility when connecting with the connector portion120of the subsea tree22, e.g., on top of the tubing hanger31.

The feedthrough system cap38A may include one or more alignment guides configured to align the feedthrough system cap38A with the subsea tree22, including alignment of the landing body106and the feedthrough line118. For example, the landing body106includes an alignment guide122providing alignment functions for aligning the line connector108in the landing body106to the connector portion120in the tubing hanger31. In the present embodiment, the alignment guide122include a key124and a stab mandrel128. The key124(e.g., an axial key or guide) may be positioned in a key slot126(e.g., an axial key slot or guide). The key124may have flexibility of moving inside the key slot126before locking the landing body106with the lock64as discussed in further detail below. The key124may be an axially extending guide, such as an axially extending plate, strip, or rectangular bar. The key slot126may be an axially extending slot, groove, or recess sized to receive the key124. In certain embodiments, the key124is coupled to the landing body106(e.g., along an outer annular surface) and the key slot126is disposed in the tubing hanger31(e.g., along an inner annular surface), or the key124is coupled to the tubing hanger31(e.g., along an inner annular surface) and the key slot126is disposed in the landing body106(e.g., along an outer annular surface). When lowering the feedthrough system cap38A onto the subsea tree22, the feedthrough system cap38A may be rotated until the key124circumferentially aligns with the key slot126, and then the feedthrough system cap38A may be further lowered to fully land the landing body106on the tubing hanger31while the key124moves axially along the key slot126. The circumferential alignment of the key124with the key slot126also circumferentially aligns the line connector108of the feedthrough system cap38A with the connector portion120of the tubing hanger31, thereby ensuring a proper connection for the feedthrough line118. Upon engagement of the key124with the key slot126, the landing body106is guided to move axially along the central axis81without any rotational movement in the circumferential direction54about the central axis81. The alignment of the key124with the key slot126also blocks rotational movement of the landing body106when operating the actuator60to move the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98) to move the lock64between the locked and unlocked positions. In addition to the key124and the key slot126, the stab mandrel128is configured to extend axially into an inner annular bore127of the tubing hanger31to provide alignment and sealing between the feedthrough system cap38A and the tubing hanger31. The stab mandrel128may be an annular stab mandrel having an outer annular surface129with one or more seals131(e.g., outer annular seals). In some embodiments, the stab mandrel128may not have a seal.

Once fully landed, the feedthrough system cap38A may be locked to the subsea tree22by energizing the lock64between the landing body106and the tubing hanger31as discussed in further detail below. Before energizing the lock64, the viewing window80may be used to view the position of the feedthrough system cap38A relative to the subsea tree22and/or the indicator102may be used to confirm the position of the feedthrough system cap38A. The subsea tree22also includes other features that may be used with the landing and locking of the feedthrough system cap38A. For example, the subsea tree22includes a tree body or a reentry mandrel130, a top132of the reentry mandrel130, grooves134on the reentry mandrel130, a top140of the tubing hanger31, and steps142(e.g., annular steps) on the tubing hanger31. These features may provide various supports for the installation of the feedthrough system cap38A on the subsea tree22.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the subsea tree22taken along the line3-3ofFIG.1, further illustrating details of the lock64mentioned above. The feedthrough system cap38A is the same as described above with reference toFIG.2. However, the cross-sectional view ofFIG.3is rotated about the central axis81relative to the cross-sectional view ofFIG.2. In the embodiment shown inFIG.3, the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98) is configured to move the lock64radially between a first radial position (e.g., unlocked position) and a seconds radial position (e.g., locked position) relative to the tubing hanger31. The energizing sleeve98is configured to drive the lock64via a variable diameter annular surface144, which may function as a cam surface or energizing surface. The variable diameter annular surface144of the energizing sleeve98may include an annular surface146, a tapered annular surface148, and an annular surface150, wherein the annular surface150has a greater diameter than the annular surface146, and the tapered annular surface148(e.g., frustoconical surface or energizing surface) expands or increases in diameter from the annular surface146to the annular surface150. For example, the annular surface146may be a cylindrical surface having a first constant diameter, the annular surface150may be a cylindrical surface having a second constant diameter, and the second constant diameter is greater than the first constant diameter. The illustrated lock64includes a plurality of radial locking pins or locking dogs152(e.g., radial locks) extending radially through bores, windows, or openings153in the landing body106from the energizing sleeve98to the tubing hanger31. In certain embodiments, the lock64may include one or more radial locks, such as a locking ring (e.g., annular ring, split ring, C-ring, segmented ring, etc.), configured to expand and contract in the radial direction52. The variable diameter annular surface144of the energizing sleeve98is configured to radially move the plurality of locking dogs152.

As the actuator60(e.g., central shaft84and the bottom actuating portion88) rotates within the energizing sleeve98via the threaded interface96, the energizing sleeve98moves axially downward within the landing body106along the central axis81in the axial direction50. As the energizing sleeve98moves axially downward, the variable diameter annular surface144moves along the plurality of locking dogs152from the annular surface146, along the tapered annular surface148, and along the annular surface150. When the annular surface146is disposed against the plurality of locking dogs152, the plurality of locking dogs152are disposed in the first radial position (e.g., unlocked position), wherein the plurality of locking dogs152are radially retracted within the openings153in the landing body106. When the tapered annular surface148moves along the plurality of locking dogs152during axial downward movement of the energizing sleeve98, the plurality of locking dogs152are gradually energized or biased in an outward radial direction52from the first radial position (e.g., unlocked position) toward the second radial position (e.g., locked position). After passing over the tapered annular surface148, when the annular surface150is disposed against the plurality of locking dogs152, the plurality of locking dogs152are disposed in the second radial position (e.g., locked position), wherein the plurality of locking dogs152are radially extended or protruding from the openings153in the landing body106to engage with the tubing hanger31(e.g., an annular slot or groove154). For example, the annular slot or groove154may extend circumferentially about an inner annular surface of the tubing hanger31, such that the plurality of locking dogs152can radially extend into the annular slot or groove154to block axial movement of the landing body106and the entire feedthrough system cap38A. Again, the monitor66(e.g., the indicator102and the viewing window80) may be used to confirm the locked position between the feedthrough system cap38A and the tubing hanger31. The locking dogs152may be disposed at a plurality of positions circumferentially offset from the feedthrough line118, the protective feedthrough sleeve68, the line connector108, and related components.

The feedthrough system cap38A can be unlocked and removed from the subsea tree22by operating the actuator60, the energizer62, and the lock64in a reverse process. For example, the actuator60may rotate the central shaft84and the bottom actuating portion88in an opposite rotational direction along the threaded interface96, thereby driving movement of the energizing sleeve98in an opposite axial direction (e.g., upward axial direction), and causing the plurality of locking dogs152to retract from the annular slot or groove154. In certain embodiments, the locking dogs152may be spring biased radially inward toward the energizing sleeve98, such that the locking dogs152automatically retract into the openings153in the landing body106when moving the energizing sleeve98axially upwardly during a removal process. In certain other embodiments, the locking dogs152may be retracted by being forced inwards by the angled contact with groove154after the energizing sleeve98is moved axially upward. Once the locking dogs152are retracted from the annular slot or groove154, the feedthrough system cap38A may be pulled vertically upward to separate the feedthrough system cap38A from the tubing hanger31and the subsea tree22.

FIG.4is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38A vertically above the subsea tree22ofFIG.2, illustrating the feedthrough system cap38A in a position156prior to installation on the subsea tree22, further illustrating details of the installation process. The feedthrough system cap38A and the subsea tree22are the same as described above, and thus the foregoing discussion of various components, movements, and functionality is the same forFIG.4. The ROV40may carry the feedthrough system cap38A (e.g., using the handle78) to a position where the top of the feedthrough system cap38A (e.g., including the top72and the adapter82) is in close proximity to the position156, such that the guide funnel70is ready to be slid downward (e.g., outside and along the outer surface of the subsea tree22). For instance, the inner side of the side wall74of the guide funnel70may be aligned for being slid downward along the reentry mandrel130in a top section of the subsea tree22. As such, the guide funnel70may provide a first alignment (e.g., a rough or approximate alignment) for aligning the guide funnel70to the reentry mandrel130, prior to installing the feedthrough system cap38A. As noted above, the tapered bottom76provides the initial alignment between the guide funnel70and the reentry mandrel130, followed by the side wall74of the guide funnel70moving axially along the reentry mandrel130.

FIG.5is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38A during installation onto the subsea tree ofFIG.2, illustrating the feedthrough system cap38A in a position158(e.g., a partially lowered position) prior to fully landing on the subsea tree22, further illustrating details of the installation process. The feedthrough system cap38A and the subsea tree22are the same as described above, and thus the foregoing discussion of various components, movements, and functionality is the same forFIG.5. As shown, the guide funnel70is slid downward along a direction157(e.g., along the central axis81) and reaches the position158, such that the top72reaches the top132of the reentry mandrel130. The feedthrough system cap38A is rotated about the central axis81until the key124aligns with the key slot126, and then the feedthrough system cap38A is further lowered while the key124moves axially along the key slot126. The alignment between the key124and the key slot126aligns the feedthrough line118, and particularly the line connector108with the connector portion120in the tubing hanger31. Once fully landed, the feedthrough system cap38A may be locked in place via operation of the actuator60, the energizer62, and the lock64as discussed in detail above. The central shaft84may be rotated (e.g., via the top drive portion86positioned inside the adapter82) hydraulically or mechanically (e.g., controlled by the ROV40), causing a rotation of the central shaft84around the central axis81, which subsequently drives the energizing sleeve98to move downwardly along the plurality of locking dogs152to move the locking dogs152into the locked position with the tubing hanger31. The indicator102and/or the viewing window80may be used to verify the landing and locking as discussed above. It should be noted that the components described above with regard to the example subsea tree22with the feedthrough system cap38A ofFIGS.2-5are examples and the feedthrough system cap38A may include additional or fewer components relative to the illustrated embodiment.

The embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38A described above with respect toFIGS.2-5includes a fixed landing body106(e.g., fixed in position relative to the guide funnel70), such that the landing body106moves along with the guide funnel70. Alternatively, the landing body may move separately from the guide funnel70.FIG.6is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a feedthrough system cap38B landed on the subsea tree22. The feedthrough system cap38B is similar to the feedthrough system cap38A as described above with reference toFIGS.1-5, and thus like elements are depicted with like element numbers. Unless stated otherwise, the various components, movements, and functionality are the same or substantially the same as described in detail above with reference toFIGS.1-5, even if shown in different positions. For example, the actuator60(e.g., top drive portion86, central shaft84, and bottom actuating portion88), the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98), and the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152) operate substantially the same as described above with reference toFIGS.1-5. By further example, the monitor66(e.g., the indicator102and/or the viewing window80) may be configured to operate substantially the same as described above with reference toFIGS.1-5. However, the feedthrough system cap38B differs from the feedthrough system cap38A by including a shorter side wall74of the guide funnel70and by including an axial positioning system105for extending and retracting the landing body106(e.g., extensible landing body) relative to the guide funnel70. For example, the landing body106may be part of a moveable landing assembly107configured to move via the axial positioning system105.

For example, the side wall74(e.g., annular side wall) of the feedthrough system cap38B ofFIG.6may be less than 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 percent, or other percentages of an axial length of the feedthrough system cap38A ofFIGS.1-5. For example, the side wall74may have an axial length sufficient to surround the landing body106, the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98), the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152), and the stab mandrel128when the axial positioning system105positions the landing body106in a retracted position as shown inFIG.6. The retracted position ofFIG.6may be used when running the feedthrough system cap38B to the subsea tree22, thereby providing protection for the foregoing components within the side wall74of the guide funnel70prior to landing of the feedthrough system cap38B. As illustrated inFIG.6, the guide funnel70has been landed on the top132of the reentry mandrel130; however, the landing body106has not yet been extended into the subsea tree22.

The axial positioning system105includes a central guide body or guidance feature160(e.g., inner annular guide body) mounted in a central opening71of the top72of the guide funnel70, wherein the guidance feature160includes a tapered annular edge161at an angle162, a central guide bore164for the central shaft84, radially offset guide bores166for the protective feedthrough sleeves68, and an axial position lock168. In the illustrated embodiment, the guidance feature160is configured to fit inside of an annular bore of the reentry mandrel130, wherein the tapered annular edge161helps to guide the initial insertion of the guidance feature160into the reentry mandrel130. The guidance feature160may also include a bumper (e.g., annular bumper) to protect surfaces of the reentry mandrel130(e.g., sealing surfaces). The bumper may be nylon or any other suitable material that would protect the surfaces of the reentry mandrel130.

The axial position lock168is configured to move between an unlocked position enabling axial movement of a movable landing assembly107including the landing body106or a locked position blocking axial movement of the moveable landing assembly107including the landing body106. The moveable landing assembly107includes a top portion72A of the top72of the guide funnel70, the top drive portion86disposed in the adapter82, the central shaft84coupled to the top drive portion86and the bottom actuating portion88, the protective feedthrough sleeves68(e.g., hollow axial tubes or axial guide bars) coupled to the top portion72A and the landing body106, the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98) coupled to the landing body106along the threaded interface96, the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152) coupled to the landing body106, and the stab mandrel128coupled to the landing body106. Collectively, the foregoing components of the moveable landing assembly107are configured to move axially along the central axis81when the axial position lock168is disposed in the unlocked position. The axial movement of the moveable landing assembly107is enabled and axially guided by movement of the central shaft84through the central guide bore164and movement of the protective feedthrough sleeves68through the offset guide bores166. In certain embodiments, the central guide bores164and offset guide bores166may include bushings, bearings, or other supports to help reduce friction and axially guide the central shaft84and the protective feedthrough sleeves68.

The axial position lock168includes a radial locking pin172disposed in a radial support sleeve174coupled to an axial guide sleeve178, wherein the axial guide sleeve178includes a radial lock bore176aligned with the radial support sleeve174. The radial locking pin172includes a handle171(e.g., loop) coupled to a shaft173, wherein the shaft173is configured to move axially along the radial support sleeve174between a retracted position (e.g., unlocked position) out of the radial lock bore176in the axial guide sleeve178and an extended position (e.g., locked position) within the radial lock bore176in the axial guide sleeve178. The axial guide sleeve178supports one of the protective feedthrough sleeves68, which also includes a plurality of radial lock bores at different axial positions along the protective feedthrough sleeve68to enable different locking positions of the moveable landing assembly107. In certain embodiments, the radial locking pin172may be spring biased with a spring (e.g., within the radial support sleeve174around the shaft173) toward the extended position (e.g., locked position). Additionally, the radial locking pin172is configured to engage a pin retainer175to hold the position of the radial locking pin172within the radial support sleeve174. For example, the pin retainer175may include a boss or protrusion disposed in a J-slot, such that radial locking pin172can be held in position or released from its position by a partial turn (e.g., ¼ turn or ½ turn) of the radial locking pin172in the radial support sleeve174. In some embodiments, the radial locking pin172may be coupled to the radial support sleeve174via a threaded interface, such that the radial locking pin172can be extended or retracted by turning the radial locking pin172clockwise or counterclockwise along the threaded interface. In some embodiments, the radial locking pin172may be coupled to an actuator or drive, such as an electric drive or a fluid drive (e.g., hydraulic or pneumatic drive), coupled to a controller. In operation, the axial position lock168is used to lock or unlock the position of the movable landing assembly107.

FIG.7is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38B landed on the subsea tree22ofFIG.6, further illustrating the movable landing assembly107in an extended position within the subsea tree22. As illustrated inFIG.7, the axial position lock168has the radial locking pin172moved along the radial support sleeve174to a retracted position (e.g., unlocked position) relative to the radial lock bore176in the axial guide sleeve178, such that the protective feedthrough sleeve68is free to move axially through the axial guide sleeve178and the movable landing assembly107is free to move axially from the retracted position ofFIG.6to the extended position ofFIG.7. Again, when the axial position lock168is released or unlocked, the central shaft84moves axially through the central guide bore164of the guidance feature160and the protective feedthrough sleeves68move axially through the offset guide bores166of the guidance feature160. As illustrated inFIG.7, the protective feedthrough sleeve68has a plurality of radial lock bores177configured to align with the radial lock bore176and the radial locking pin172when locking a position of the protective feedthrough sleeve68and the movable landing assembly107.

As illustrated inFIGS.6and7, the landing body106may be run while nested in the feedthrough system cap38B. The movable landing assembly107, including the landing body106, may then be released and extended (e.g., along the central axis81) into the tubing hanger31after the portion72B of the guide funnel70lands on the top132of the reentry mandrel130. As discussed above with reference toFIGS.1-5, the key124and the key slot126may be used to align the line connector108on the landing body106to the connector portion120on the tubing hanger31. The landing body106may then be locked into the tubing hanger31using the actuator60, the energizer62, and the lock64in the same manner as described above with reference toFIGS.1-5. Finally, the monitor66(e.g., indicator102and/or viewing window80) may be used to monitor and/or confirm the status of landing, actuating, energizing, and/or locking the landing body106. The passage and connection of the feedthrough line118is also as described in detail above with reference toFIGS.1-5.

FIG.8is a cross-sectional view of the feedthrough system cap38B coupled to the subsea tree22ofFIGS.6and7, illustrating the feedthrough system cap38B in a position prior to extending the moveable landing assembly107into the subsea tree22. The ROV40may be configured to maneuver and lower the feedthrough system cap38B onto the top132of the reentry mandrel130, while the movable landing assembly107is locked in the retracted position using the axial position lock168. The initial landing of the feedthrough system cap38B onto the top132of the reentry mandrel130is guided at least by the tapered bottom76and the side wall74of the guide funnel70around an exterior of the reentry mandrel130and by the guidance feature160having the tapered annular edge161extending into the interior of the reentry mandrel130. As such, the guide funnel70and the guidance feature160may provide the initial alignment for landing the feedthrough system cap38B onto the reentry mandrel130, prior to extending, actuating, energizing, and locking the moveable landing assembly107as described above.

FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of the feedthrough system cap38B coupled to the subsea tree22ofFIGS.6-8, illustrating the feedthrough system cap38B in a position after extending the moveable landing assembly107into the subsea tree22. After landing the portion72B on the top132of the reentry mandrel130, the axial position lock168may release the moveable landing assembly107, such that the moveable landing assembly107(including the landing body106, the lock64, the energizer62, etc.) can be extended into the subsea tree22for landing and locking with the tubing hanger31. As shown, the top portion72A with the landing body106is slid downward along a direction182(e.g., along the central axis81) from a position180(e.g., retracted position ofFIG.8) to a position186(e.g., extended position ofFIG.9), such that the top portion72A aligns with portion72B. After the moveable landing assembly107is extended into the subsea tree22, the operation of the actuator60, the energizer62, and the lock64are substantially the same as described in detail above. Accordingly, after the top portion72A reaches the position186, the central shaft84may be rotated (e.g., via the top drive portion86positioned inside the adapter82) via a torque tool (e.g., controlled by the ROV40), causing a rotation of the central shaft84around the central axis81, which subsequently drives the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98) to energize the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152). For example, the central shaft84rotates the bottom actuating portion88along the threaded interface96with the energizing sleeve98, thereby driving axial movement of the energizing sleeve98along the landing body106and the locking dogs152of the lock64. The variable diameter annular surface144of the energizing sleeve98then drives radial movement of the locking dogs152, particularly radial outward movement of the locking dogs152into the annular slot or groove154. Again, the key124in the key slot126may be used to align the line connector108on the landing body106to the connector portion120on the tubing hanger31. The monitor66(e.g., the indicator102and the viewing window80) may be used to confirm the locked position between the feedthrough system cap38A and the tubing hanger31.

The embodiment illustrated inFIG.8shows a running position of the feedthrough system cap38B. When the ROV40carries components of the feedthrough system cap38B (e.g., during the installation), certain components (e.g., delicate components) in the landing body106, such as the stab mandrel128, the lock64, and the guidance feature160need to be protected. The delicate components may be tucked inside the guide funnel70for protection. After the installation (e.g., as shown inFIG.9), such delicate components may no longer need shielding by the guide funnel70, because the components are shielded inside of the subsea tree22. It should be noted that the components described above with regard to the subsea tree22with the feedthrough system cap38B ofFIGS.6-9are examples, and the feedthrough system cap38B may include additional or fewer components relative to the illustrated embodiment.

FIG.10is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a feedthrough system cap38C landed on the subsea tree22. The feedthrough system cap38C is similar to the feedthrough system cap38A as described above with reference toFIGS.1-5and the feedthrough system cap38B as described above with reference toFIGS.6-9, and thus like elements are depicted with like element numbers. Unless stated otherwise, the various components, movements, and functionality are the same or substantially the same as described in detail above with reference toFIGS.1-9, even if shown in different positions. For example, the axial position lock168is the same as described above with reference toFIGS.6-9, the feedthrough system cap38C has a shorter side wall74of the guide funnel70similar to the feedthrough system cap38B ofFIGS.6-9, and the movable landing assembly107is the same or substantially the same as described above with reference toFIGS.6-9. By further example, the monitor66(e.g., the indicator102and/or the viewing window80) may be configured to operate substantially the same as described above with reference toFIGS.1-5. Additionally, the feedthrough line118and the connection between the line connector108and the connector portion120may operate the same as discussed above.

The moveable landing assembly107may include and/or exclude any of the features discussed above with reference toFIGS.6-9. In certain embodiments, the movable landing assembly107ofFIG.10includes the top portion72A of the top72of the guide funnel70, the top drive portion86disposed in the adapter82, the central shaft84coupled to the top drive portion86and the bottom actuating portion88, the protective feedthrough sleeves68(e.g., hollow axial tubes or axial guide bars) coupled to the top portion72A and the landing body106, the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98) coupled to the landing body106along the threaded interface96, the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152) coupled to the landing body106, and the stab mandrel128coupled to the landing body106, as described above with reference toFIGS.6-9. However, in some embodiments, the movable landing assembly107ofFIG.10may exclude one or more of these components, such as the bottom actuating portion88of the actuator60, the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98coupled to the bottom actuating portion88via the threaded interface96), and the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152) energized by the energizer62. In such embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.10, the actuator60may have a coupling188disposed in a receptacle189, wherein the coupling188is coupled to the central shaft84and the receptacle189is disposed in the landing body106. The coupling188may include an enlarged head, a bearing, a bushing, or another joint. The receptacle189may include a keyhole slot, a flanged plate with a central opening, or another suitable retainer to couple the coupling188with the moveable landing assembly107(e.g., the landing body106or another suitable component of the moveable landing assembly107). In certain embodiments, the actuator60or the handle78may be used to rotate the landing body106to help with alignment between the key124and the key slot126, thereby aligning the feedthrough line118(e.g., the line connector108with the connector portion120). In certain embodiments, the actuator60may be configured to control at least a portion of the movement of the landing body106when landing on the tubing hanger31. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the central shaft84of the actuator may be coupled to the central guide bore164via a threaded interface, such that rotation of the central shaft84controls the axial movement of the moveable landing assembly107during a landing procedure.

In the illustrated embodiment, the feedthrough system cap38C differs from the feedthrough system cap38A ofFIGS.1-5and the feedthrough system cap38B ofFIGS.6-9by including an external landing lock190configured to lock the feedthrough system cap38C onto the subsea tree22. The external landing lock190may be configured to operate with or without the internal landing lock ofFIGS.1-9(e.g., inside the guide funnel70and inside the subsea tree22), wherein the internal landing lock includes the lock64(e.g., locking dogs152) driven by the energizer62(e.g., energizing sleeve98). As illustrated inFIG.10, the external landing lock190includes a radial locking pin192disposed in a radial support sleeve194coupled to the side wall74(e.g., annular side wall) of the guide funnel70, wherein the side wall74includes a radial lock bore196aligned with the radial support sleeve194. The radial locking pin192includes a handle191(e.g., loop) coupled to a shaft193, wherein the shaft193is configured to move axially along the radial support sleeve194between a retracted position (e.g., unlocked position) and an extended position (e.g., locked position) relative to the groove134of the reentry mandrel130. In the retracted position (e.g., unlocked position), the shaft193of the radial locking pin192is retracted within the radial support sleeve194, such that the shaft193does not protrude into the groove134of the reentry mandrel130. In the extended position (e.g., locked position), the shaft193of the radial locking pin192is extended at least partially outside of the radial support sleeve194, such that the shaft193protrudes into the groove134of the reentry mandrel130. In the extended position (e.g., locked position), the radial locking pin192blocks axial movement of the guide funnel70, and thus the feedthrough system cap38C, relative to the subsea tree22. Additionally, while the external landing lock190(e.g., radial locking pin192) secures the guide funnel70, the axial position lock168can be released to enable lowering and landing of the landing body106onto the tubing hanger31and connection of the feedthrough line118(e.g., line connector108and connector portion120).

In certain embodiments, the radial locking pin192may be spring biased with a spring (e.g., within the radial support sleeve194around the shaft193) toward the extended position (e.g., locked position). Additionally, the radial locking pin192is configured to engage a pin retainer197to hold the position of the radial locking pin192within the radial support sleeve194. For example, the pin retainer197may include a boss or protrusion disposed in a J-slot, such that radial locking pin192can be held in position or released from its position by a partial turn (e.g., ¼ turn or ½ turn) of the radial locking pin192in the radial support sleeve194. In some embodiments, the radial locking pin192may be coupled to the radial support sleeve194via a threaded interface, such that the radial locking pin192can be extended or retracted by turning the radial locking pin192clockwise or counterclockwise along the threaded interface. In some embodiments, the radial locking pin192may be coupled to an actuator or drive, such as an electric drive or a fluid drive (e.g., hydraulic or pneumatic drive), coupled to a controller. In operation, the external landing lock190is used to lock or unlock the position of the guide funnel70. Once locked, the axial position lock168can be released to lower the moveable landing assembly107as discussed below.

FIG.11is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38C landed on the subsea tree22ofFIG.10, illustrating the movable landing assembly107extended into the subsea tree22and landed on the tubing hanger31. As discussed above with reference toFIG.10, the external landing lock190is disposed in a locked position to secure the guide funnel70and the feedthrough system cap38C onto the reentry mandrel130. As illustrated inFIG.11, the axial position lock168has the radial locking pin172moved along the radial support sleeve174to a retracted position (e.g., unlocked position) relative to the radial lock bore176in the axial guide sleeve178, such that the protective feedthrough sleeve68is free to move axially through the axial guide sleeve178and the movable landing assembly107is free to move axially from the retracted position ofFIG.10to the extended position ofFIG.11. Again, when the axial position lock168is released or unlocked, the central shaft84moves axially through the central guide bore164of the guidance feature160and the protective feedthrough sleeves68move axially through the offset guide bores166of the guidance feature160. As illustrated inFIG.11, the protective feedthrough sleeve68has a plurality of radial lock bores177configured to align with the radial lock bore176and the radial locking pin172when locking a position of the protective feedthrough sleeve68and the movable landing assembly107. Once the landing body106is at least substantially or fully extended and landed on the tubing hanger31, the moveable landing assembly107may be locked in position by engaging a threaded interface between the central shaft84(e.g., external threads) and the central guide bore164(e.g., internal threads), wherein the threaded interface is gradually tightened by the rotation of the top drive portion86. As the external landing lock190is latched to the grooves134of the reenter mandrel13, the threaded interface between the central shaft84and the central guide bore164may affix the landing assembly107to the guide funnel70. Again, as discussed above, the key124and the key slot126may be used to rotationally align the feedthrough line118(e.g., aligning and coupling the line connector108with the connector portion120). The monitor66(e.g., indicator102and/or viewing window80) also may be used to monitor and/or verify the landing of the landing body106on the tubing hanger31and the connection of the line connector108with the connector portion120.

FIG.12is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38C coupled to the subsea tree22ofFIG.10, illustrating the feedthrough system cap38C in a position prior to extending the moveable landing assembly107into the subsea tree22. The ROV40may be configured to maneuver and lower the feedthrough system cap38B onto the top132of the reentry mandrel130, while the movable landing assembly107is locked in the retracted position using the axial position lock168. The initial landing of the feedthrough system cap38C onto the top132of the reentry mandrel130is guided at least by the tapered bottom76and the side wall74of the guide funnel70around an exterior of the reentry mandrel130and by the guidance feature160having the tapered annular edge161extending into the interior of the reentry mandrel130. As such, the guide funnel70and the guidance feature160may provide the initial alignment for landing the feedthrough system cap38C onto the reentry mandrel130. After landing the feedthrough system cap38C on the reentry mandrel130, the external landing lock190is configured to lock the feedthrough system cap38C onto the reentry mandrel130. After locking the feedthrough system cap38C via the external landing lock190, the axial position lock168is released to enable lowering and landing of the moveable landing assembly107on the tubing hanger31as described above. As such, the guide funnel70and the guidance feature160may provide the initial alignment for landing the feedthrough system cap38C onto the reentry mandrel130, prior to lowering and landing the moveable landing assembly107as described above.

FIG.13is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38C coupled to the subsea tree22ofFIG.10, illustrating the feedthrough system cap38C in a position after extending the moveable landing assembly107into the subsea tree22. After landing the portion72B on the top132of the reentry mandrel130, the axial position lock168may release the moveable landing assembly107, such that the moveable landing assembly107(including the landing body106) can be extended into the subsea tree22for landing with the tubing hanger31. As shown, the top portion72A with the landing body106is slid downward along a direction202(e.g., along the central axis81) from a position200(e.g., retracted position ofFIG.12) to a position204(e.g., extended position ofFIG.13), such that the top portion72A aligns with portion72B. In certain embodiments, the central shaft84of the actuator60may be coupled to the central guide bore164via a threaded interface, such that rotation of the central shaft84controls the axial movement of the moveable landing assembly107during a landing procedure. Additionally, the key124in the key slot126may be used to align the line connector108on the landing body106to the connector portion120on the tubing hanger31. Additionally, the monitor66(e.g., the indicator102and the viewing window80) may be used to confirm the landing position of the landing body106on the tubing hanger31and the connection of the line connector108with the connector portion120of the feedthrough line118.

FIG.14is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the feedthrough system cap38C ofFIGS.10-13, further illustrating details of the central shaft84coupled to the guidance feature160. In the illustrated embodiment, the central shaft84is coupled to the guidance feature160with a keyed ring210having a plurality of keys212extending from an annular body214, wherein the plurality of keys212may be axially oriented keys (e.g., rectangular strips, plates, or fins) on opposite sides of the annular body214. The keys212are configured to selectively align with mating key slots216(e.g., axially oriented key slots) along the central guide bore164. The keyed ring210also includes a central bore218with an annular shoulder220, wherein an opening diameter of the annular shoulder220is smaller than the diameter of the central bore218. Thus, the keyed ring210is configured to selectively pass the central shaft84through the guidance feature160during a landing process, thereby helping to control the landing of the landing body106on the tubing hanger31.

A retainer222is coupled to the central shaft84at a retainer slot224. In certain embodiments, the retainer222includes a radial pin disposed in the retainer slot224, which may be a radial pin hole in the central shaft84, such that the retainer222(e.g., radial pin) protrudes from opposite sides of the central shaft84. The retainer222is coupled to and moves with the central shaft84. In certain embodiments, the retainer222(e.g., radial pin) engages with axial slots226along the central bore218of the keyed ring210, such that rotation of the central shaft84causes rotation of the keyed ring210. In this manner, the central shaft84can rotate the keyed ring210to align or misalign the keys212with the key slots216. When the keys212are aligned with the key slots216, then the keyed ring210and the central shaft84can pass through the guidance feature160. For example, prior to a landing process, the central shaft84having the keyed ring210may be positioned vertically above and separate from the guidance feature160. During the landing process, as the moveable landing assembly107is lowered onto the tubing hanger31, the keyed ring210may abut a top side of the guidance feature160. However, the keyed ring210cannot pass through the guidance feature160until the keys212align with the key slots216. The central shaft84is then rotated until the keys212align with the key slots216, and then the central shaft84is lowered to pass through the central guide bore164with the keyed ring210. Upon passing through the guidance feature160, the central shaft84may be rotated to move the keys212out of alignment with the key slots216, such that the keyed ring210cannot pass upwardly back through the guidance feature160.

The central shaft84further includes a spring228(e.g., an annular spring or coil spring) and a nut230coupled to a lower shaft portion232. For example, the nut230is coupled to a threaded portion234of the lower shaft portion232, and the spring228is disposed about the lower shaft portion232between the nut230and the keyed ring210. In operation, the spring228biases the central shaft84in a downward direction toward the landing position of the landing body106on the tubing hanger31, thereby helping to provide a spring bias to maintain the landing position. In certain embodiments, such as illustrated inFIG.14, the downward movement of the moveable landing assembly107may be limited by the top portion72A abutting on the top of the axial guide sleeve178, such that the keys212may remain at least partially in the key slots216. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the keys212may remain in one or more groove236(e.g., an annular groove or separate partial circumferential grooves) in the guidance feature160. For example, each key212may be rotated a partial turn (e.g., ¼ turn or ½ turn) along a respective groove236, thereby axially retaining the keyed ring210. It should be noted that the components described above with regard to the feedthrough system cap38C ofFIGS.10-14are examples and the feedthrough system cap38C may include additional or fewer components relative to the illustrated embodiment.

Any of the previously described embodiments may further include an adjustable length on the protective feedthrough sleeves68(e.g., sleeve portions110and112) that support the landing body106and pass one or more feedthrough lines118(as shown inFIGS.2-13). Adjustment features in the protective feedthrough sleeves68may allow the protective feedthrough sleeves68to be lengthened or shortened prior to running subsea to allow a feedthrough system cap design or configuration to be used on different trees having varying reentry mandrel lengths.

Any of the previously described embodiments may use the protective feedthrough sleeves68to pass through any number and type of feedthrough lines118, including fiber optic lines, electrical lines, fluid lines (e.g., liquid and/or gas lines), control lines, data communication lines, sensor or monitoring lines, chemical injection lines, or any combination thereof. Similarly, the line connector108and the connector portion120may include any combination of male and female connectors for the foregoing line types. Additionally, any of the features discussed above with reference toFIGS.1-14may be used alone or in combination with one another.

The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. Moreover, the order in which the elements of the methods described herein are illustrated and described may be re-arranged, and/or two or more elements may occur simultaneously. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principals of the disclosure and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

The techniques presented and claimed herein are referenced and applied to material objects and concrete examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve the present technical field and, as such, are not abstract, intangible or purely theoretical. Further, if any claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as “means for [perform]ing [a function] . . . ” or “step for [perform]ing [a function] . . . ,” it is intended that such elements are to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f). However, for any claims containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f).