US20060207760A1

US20060207760A1 - Collapsible expansion cone

Info

Publication number: US20060207760A1
Application number: US10/517,755
Authority: US
Inventors: Brock Watson; David Brisco
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-06-12
Filing date: 2003-06-12
Publication date: 2006-09-21
Also published as: GB2405893A; GB2418216A; WO2003106130A3; GB2417273A; GB2417273B; GB0523075D0; AU2003275962A1; GB0523076D0; WO2003106130A2; GB2418217A; GB0523132D0; AU2003275962A8; GB2405893B; CA2489283A1; GB0500275D0; GB2418217B; GB2418216B; WO2003106130B1; GB2419907B; GB2419907A

Abstract

An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member includes a collapsible expansion cone.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is the National Stage for PCT patent application serial no. PCT/US2003/018530, attorney docket no. 25791.108.02, filed on 12 Jun. 2003, which claimed the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/387,961, attorney docket no 25791.108, filed on Jun. 12, 2002, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 10/507,567, attorney docket no. 25791.95.03, filed on , Feb. 19, 2003 which claimed the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/363,829, attorney docket no. 25791.95, filed on Mar. 13, 2002, which was a continuation-in-part of each of the following: U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 10/495,347, attorney docket no. 25791.87.05, filed on Nov. 12, 2002, which claimed the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/338,996, attorney docket no. 25791.87, filed on Nov. 12, 2001, and U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 10/495,344, attorney docket no. 25791.88.05, filed on Nov. 12, 2002, which claimed the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/339,013, attorney docket no. 25791.88 filed on Nov. 12, 2001, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The present application is related to the following: (1) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791.03.02, filed on Dec. 3, 1999, (2) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/510,913, attorney docket no. 25791.7.02, filed on Feb. 23, 2000, (3) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/502,350, attorney docket no. 25791.8.02, filed on Feb. 10, 2000, (4) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/440,338, attorney docket no. 25791.9.02, filed on Nov. 15, 1999, (5) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/523,460, attorney docket no. 25791.11.02, filed on Mar. 10, 2000, (6) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, filed on Feb. 24, 2000, (7) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/511,941, attorney docket no. 25791.16.02, filed on Feb. 24, 2000, (8) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on Jun. 7, 2000, (9) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/559,122, attorney docket no. 25791.23.02, filed on Apr. 26, 2000, (10) PCT patent application serial no. PCT/US00/18635, attorney docket no. 25791.25.02, filed on Jul. 9, 2000, (11) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/162,671, attorney docket no. 25791.27, filed on Nov. 1, 1999, (12) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/154,047, attorney docket no. 25791.29, filed on Sep. 16, 1999, (13) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/159,082, attorney docket no. 25791.34, filed on Oct. 12, 1999, (14) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/159,039, attorney docket no. 25791.36, filed on Oct. 12, 1999, (15) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/159,033, attorney docket no. 25791.37, filed on Oct. 12, 1999, (16) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/212,359, attorney docket no. 25791.38, filed on Jun. 19, 2000, (17) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/165,228, attorney docket no. 25791.39, filed on Nov. 12, 1999, (18) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/221,443, attorney docket no. 25791.45, filed on Jul. 28, 2000, (19) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/221,645, attorney docket no. 25791.46, filed on Jul. 28, 2000, (20) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/233,638, attorney docket no. 25791.47, filed on Sep. 18, 2000, (21) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/237,334, attorney docket no. 25791.48, filed on Oct. 2, 2000, (22) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/270,007, attorney docket no. 25791.50, filed on Feb. 20, 2001, (23) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/262,434, attorney docket no. 25791.51, filed on Jan. 17, 2001, (24) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/259,486, attorney docket no. 25791.52, filed on Jan. 3, 2001, (25) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/303,740, attorney docket no. 25791.61, filed on Jul. 6, 2001, (26) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/313,453, attorney docket no. 25791.59, filed on Aug. 20, 2001, (27) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/317,985, attorney docket no. 25791.67, filed on Sep. 6, 2001, (28) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/3318,386, attorney docket no. 25791.67.02, filed on Sep. 10, 2001, (29) U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 09/969,922, attorney docket no. 25791.69, filed on Oct. 3, 2001, (30) U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 10/016,467, attorney docket no. 25791.70, filed on Dec. 10, 2001; (31) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/343,674, attorney docket no. 25791.68, filed on Dec. 27, 2001; (32) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/346,309, attorney docket no. 25791.92, filed on Jan. 7, 2002; (33) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/372,048, attorney docket no. 25791.93, filed on Apr. 12, 2002; (34) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/363,829, attorney docket no. 25791.95, filed on Mar. 13, 2002; (35) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/372,632, attorney docket no. 25791.101, filed on Apr. 15, 2002; (36) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/380,147, attorney docket no. 25791.104, filed on May 6, 2002; and (37) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/387,486, attorney docket no. 25791.107, filed on Jun. 10, 2002, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to oil and gas exploration, and in particular to forming and repairing wellbore casings to facilitate oil and gas exploration.
Conventionally, when a wellbore is created, a number of casings are installed in the borehole to prevent collapse of the borehole wall and to prevent undesired outflow of drilling fluid into the formation or inflow of fluid from the formation into the borehole. The borehole is drilled in intervals whereby a casing which is to be installed in a lower borehole interval is lowered through a previously installed casing of an upper borehole interval. As a consequence of this procedure the casing of the lower interval is of smaller diameter than the casing of the upper interval. Thus, the casings are in a nested arrangement with casing diameters decreasing in downward direction. Cement annuli are provided between the outer surfaces of the casings and the borehole wall to seal the casings from the borehole wall. As a consequence of this nested arrangement a relatively large borehole diameter is required at the upper part of the wellbore. Such a large borehole diameter involves increased costs due to heavy casing handling equipment, large drill bits and increased volumes of drilling fluid and drill cuttings. Moreover, increased drilling rig time is involved due to required cement pumping, cement hardening, required equipment changes due to large variations in hole diameters drilled in the course of the well, and the large volume of cuttings drilled and removed.
The present invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the limitations of the existing procedures for forming new sections of casing in a wellbore.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member is provided that includes an upper tubular support member defining a first passage, one or more cup seals coupled to the exterior surface of the upper tubular support member for sealing an interface between the upper tubular support member and the expandable tubular member, an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising: a tubular base coupled to the upper tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the tubular support member, a lower tubular support member defining a second passage fluidicly coupled to the first passage releasably coupled to the upper tubular support member, and a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising: a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments, and wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention, a collapsible expansion cone assembly is provided that includes an upper tubular support member comprising an internal flange, an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising: a tubular base coupled to the upper support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper tubular support member, a lower tubular support member comprising an internal flange, one or more frangible couplings for releasably coupling the upper and lower tubular support members, a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising: a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, and a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments, and wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member is provided that includes a tubular support member, a collapsible expansion cone coupled to the tubular support member, an expandable tubular member coupled to the collapsible expansion cone, means for displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member, and means for collapsing the expansion cone.
According to another aspect of the present invention, a collapsible expansion cone is provided that includes an upper cam assembly comprising: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, a lower cam assembly comprising: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, means for moving the upper cam assembly away from the lower expansion cone segments, and means for moving the lower cam assembly away from the upper expansion cone segments.
According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member is provided that includes a tubular support member, a collapsible expansion cone coupled to the tubular support member, an expandable tubular member coupled to the collapsible expansion cone, means for displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member, and means for collapsing the expansion cone.
According to another aspect of the invention, a collapsible expansion cone is provided that includes an upper cam assembly comprising: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, a lower cam assembly comprising: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, means for moving the upper cam assembly away from the lower expansion cone segments, and means for moving the lower cam assembly away from the upper expansion cone segments.
According to another aspect of the invention, a method of radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member is provided that includes supporting the expandable tubular member using a tubular support member and a collapsible expansion cone, injecting a fluidic material into the tubular support member, sensing the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material within a first interior portion of the tubular support member, displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member, sensing the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material within a second interior portion of the tubular support member, and collapsing the collapsible expansion cone when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the second interior portion of the tubular support member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the placement of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming a tubular member that includes a collapsible expansion cone within a preexisting structure.
FIG. 1 b is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of another portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1 a.
FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 3 a is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 3.
FIG. 3 b is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 3.
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 4 a is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 4.
FIG. 5 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 6 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIGS. 7 a-7 e are fragmentary cross-sectional and perspective illustrations of the upper cam assembly of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 7 f is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the lower cam assembly of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIGS. 8 a-8 d are fragmentary cross-sectional and perspective illustrations of one of the upper cone segments of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 8 e is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of one of the lower cone segments of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 9 is a side view of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b.
FIG. 10 a is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b during the radial expansion of the expandable tubular member.
FIG. 10 b is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of another portion of the apparatus of FIG. 10 a.
FIG. 11 a. is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 10 a and 10 b during the adjustment of the expansion cone to a collapsed position.
FIG. 11 b is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of another portion of the apparatus of FIG. 11 a.
FIG. 12 is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 11 a and 11 b.
FIG. 13 is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 11 a and 11 b.
FIG. 14 is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 11 a and 11 b with the expansion cone in a half collapsed position.
FIG. 15 is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 11 a and 11 b with the expansion cone in a fully collapsed position.
FIG. 16 is a side view of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 10 a and 10 b.
FIG. 17 a. is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a portion of the apparatus of FIGS. 11 a and 11 b after the removal of the apparatus from interior of the expandable tubular member.
FIG. 17 b is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of another portion of the apparatus of FIG. 17 a.
FIG. 18 is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of a cup seal.
FIG. 19 a is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of an alternative embodiment of a cup seal.
FIG. 19 b is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of an alternative embodiment of a cup seal.
FIG. 19 c is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of an alternative embodiment of a cup seal.
FIG. 19 d is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of an alternative embodiment of a cup seal.
FIG. 19 e is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of an alternative embodiment of a cup seal.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1 a, 1 b, 2 a, 2 b, 3, 3 a, 4, 4 a, 5, 6, 7 a, 7 b, 7 c, 7 d, 7 e, 7 f, 8 a, 8 b, 8 c, 8 d, 8 e, and 9, an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus 10 for radially expanding and plastically deforming a tubular member includes a tubular support member 12 that defines a passage 12 a. An end of the tubular support member 12 is coupled to an end of a safety collar 14 that defines a passage 14 a, a recess 14 b at one end for receiving the end of the tubular support member, and recesses 14 c and 14 d at another end.
A torque plate 16 is received within and is coupled to the recess 14 c of the safety collar 14 that defines a passage 16 a and a plurality of meshing teeth 16 b at one end. An end of an upper mandrel collar 18 is received with and is coupled to the recess 14 d of the safety collar 14 proximate and end of the torque plate 16 that defines a passage 18 a. Torque pins 20 a and 20 b further couple the end of the upper mandrel collar 18 to the end of the safety collar 14.
An end of an upper mandrel 22 is received within and is coupled to the upper mandrel collar 18 that defines a passage 22 a, a plurality of meshing teeth 22 b that mate with and transmit torque to and from the meshing teeth 16 b of the torque plate 16, and an external flange 22 c at another end.
An upper cup seal or packer cup 24 mates with, receives and is coupled to the upper mandrel 22 proximate the end of the upper mandrel collar 18. An upper spacer sleeve 26 mates with, receives, and is coupled to the upper mandrel 22 proximate an end of the upper packer cup 24. A lower cup seal or packer cup 28 mates with, receives and is coupled to the upper mandrel 22 proximate an end of the upper spacer sleeve 26. In an exemplary embodiment, the packer cups 24 and 28 may be Guiberson™ packer cups. One embodiment of a Guiberson packer cup is discussed in detail below in reference to FIG. 18. Alternative embodiments of packer cups 24 and 28 are discussed below in reference to FIGS. 19 a-19 e.
Turning back to FIG. 1, a lower spacer sleeve 30 mates with, receives, and is coupled to the upper mandrel 22 proximate an end of the lower packer cup 28 and the external flange 22 c of the upper mandrel. A retaining sleeve 32 mates with, receives, and is coupled to an end of the lower spacer sleeve proximate the external flange 22 c of the upper mandrel 22.
An end of a lower mandrel 34 defines a recess 34 a that mates with, receives, and is coupled to the external flange 22 c of the upper mandrel 22, a recess 34 b that mates with, receives, and is coupled to the end of the upper mandrel, a passage 34 c, and an external flange 34 d including circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth 34 da on an end face of the external flange. Torque pins 36 a and 36 b further couple the recess 34 a of the end of the lower mandrel 34 to the external flange 22 c of the upper mandrel 22. During operation, the torque pins 36 a and 36 b transmit torque loads between the recess 34 a of the end of the lower mandrel 34 and the external flange 22 c of the upper mandrel 22.
An upper cam assembly 38 includes a tubular base 38 a for receiving and mating with the lower mandrel 34 that includes an external flange 38 aa, a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth 38 b that extend from one end of the tubular base in the longitudinal and radial directions for engaging the meshing teeth 34 da of the end face of the external flange 34 d of the lower mandrel, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart cam arms 38 c that extend from the other end of the tubular base in the opposite longitudinal direction and mate with and receive the lower mandrel. During operation, the meshing teeth 34 da of the end face of the external flange 34 d of the lower mandrel 34 transmit torque loads to the meshing teeth 38 b of the upper cam assembly 38. Each of the cam arms 38 c include an inner portion 38 ca extending from the tubular base 38 a that has arcuate cylindrical inner and outer surfaces, 38 caa and 38 cab, a tapered intermediate portion 38 cb extending from the inner portion that has an arcuate cylindrical inner surface 38 cba and an arcuate conical outer surface 38 cbb, and an outer portion 38 cc extending from the intermediate portion that has arcuate cylindrical inner and outer surfaces, 38 cca and 38 ccb. In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvatures of the arcuate outer cylindrical surfaces 38 cab are greater than the radius of curvatures of the arcuate outer cylindrical surfaces 38 ccb. In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvatures of the arcuate inner cylindrical surfaces, 38 caa, 38 cba, and 38 cca are equal.
A lower cam assembly 40 includes a tubular base 40 a for receiving and mating with the lower mandrel 34 that includes an external flange 40 aa, a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth 40 b that extend from one end of the tubular base in the longitudinal and radial directions, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart cam arms 40 c that extend from the other end of the tubular base in the opposite longitudinal direction and mate with and receive the lower mandrel. Each of the cam arms 40 c include an inner portion 40 ca extending from the tubular base 40 a that has arcuate cylindrical inner and outer surfaces, 40 caa and 40 cab, a tapered intermediate portion 40 cb extending from the inner portion 40 ca that has an arcuate cylindrical inner surface 40 cba and an arcuate conical outer surface 40 cbb, and an outer portion 40 cc extending from the intermediate portion that has arcuate cylindrical inner and outer surfaces, 40 cca and 40 ccb. In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvatures of the arcuate outer cylindrical surfaces 40 cab are greater than the radius of curvatures the arcuate outer cylindrical surfaces 40 ccb. In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvatures of the arcuate inner cylindrical surfaces, 40 caa, 40 cba, and 40 cca are equal. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper and lower cam assemblies, 38 and 40, are substantially identical. In an exemplary embodiment, the cam arms 38 c of the upper cam assembly 38 interleave the cam arms 40 c of the lower cam assembly 40. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the cam arms 38 c of the upper cam assembly also overlap with the cam arms 40 c of the lower cam assembly 40 in the longitudinal direction thereby permitting torque loads to be transmitted between the upper and lower cam assemblies.
An end of an upper retaining sleeve 42 receives and is threadably coupled to the external flange 34 d of the lower mandrel 34 that defines a passage 42 a for receiving and mating with the outer circumferential surfaces of the external flange 38 aa and the meshing teeth 38 b of the upper cam assembly 38, and an inner annular recess 42 b, and includes an internal flange 42 c for retaining the external flange 38 aa of the upper cam assembly, and an internal flange 42 d at one end of the upper retaining sleeve that includes a rounded interior end face. An o-ring seal 44 is received within the annular recess 42 b for sealing the interface between the upper retaining sleeve 42 and the external flange 34 d of the lower mandrel 34. A disc shaped shim 43 is positioned within the upper retaining sleeve 42 between the opposing end faces of the internal flange 42 c of the retaining sleeve and the meshing teeth 38 b of the upper cam assembly 38.
A plurality of upper expansion cone segments 44 are interleaved among the cam arms 38 c of the upper cam assembly 38. Each of the upper expansion cone segments 44 include inner portions 44 a having arcuate cylindrical inner surfaces, 44 aaa and 44 aab, and an arcuate cylindrical outer surface 44 ab, intermediate portions 44 b extending from the interior portions that have an arcuate conical inner surface 44 ba and arcuate cylindrical and spherical outer surfaces, 44 bba and 44 bbb, and outer portions 44 c having arcuate cylindrical inner and outer surfaces, 44 ca and 44 cb. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer surfaces 44 ab of the inner portions 44 a of the upper expansion cone segments define hinge grooves 44 aba that receive and are pivotally mounted upon the internal flange 42 d of the upper retaining sleeve 42.
The arcuate inner cylindrical surfaces 44 aaa mate with and receive the lower mandrel 34, the arcuate inner cylindrical surfaces 44 aab mate with and receive the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces 40 ccb of the outer portions 40 cc of the corresponding cam arms 40 c of the lower cam assembly 40, and the arcuate inner conical surfaces 44 ba mate with and receive the arcuate conical outer surfaces 40 cbb of the intermediate portions 40 cb of the corresponding cam arms of the lower cam assembly.
In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 44 aaa is less than the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 44 aab. In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 44 ca is greater than the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical surface 44 aab. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical inner surfaces, 44 aaa and 44 aab, are parallel. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surface 44 ab is inclined relative to the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 44 aaa. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surface 44 bba is parallel to the arcuate cylindrical inner surfaces, 44 aaa and 44 aab. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surface 44 cb is inclined relative to the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 44 ca.
A plurality of lower expansion cone segments 46 are interleaved among, and overlap, the upper expansion cone segments 44 and the cam arms 38 c of the lower cam assembly 38. In this manner, torque loads may be transmitted between the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46. Each of the lower expansion cone segments 46 include inner portions 46 a having arcuate cylindrical inner surfaces, 46 aaa and 46 aab, and an arcuate cylindrical outer surface 46 ab, intermediate portions 46 b extending from the interior portions that have an arcuate conical inner surface 46 ba and arcuate cylindrical and spherical outer surfaces, 46 bba and 46 bbb, and outer portions 46 c having arcuate cylindrical inner and outer surfaces, 46 ca and 46 cb. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer surfaces 46 ab of the inner portions 46 a of the upper expansion cone segments 46 define hinge grooves 46 aba.
The arcuate inner cylindrical surfaces 46 aaa mate with and receive the lower mandrel 34, the arcuate inner cylindrical surfaces 46 aab mate with and receive the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces 38 ccb of the outer portions 38 cc of the corresponding cam arms 38 c of the upper cam assembly 38, and the arcuate inner conical surfaces 46 ba mate with and receive the arcuate conical outer surfaces 38 cbb of the intermediate portions 38 cb of the corresponding cam arms of the lower cam assembly.
In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 46 aaa is less than the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 46 aab. In an exemplary embodiment, the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 46 ca is greater than the radius of curvature of the arcuate cylindrical surface 46 aab. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical inner surfaces, 46 aaa and 46 aab, are parallel. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surface 46 ab is inclined relative to the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 46 aaa. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surface 46 bba is parallel to the arcuate cylindrical inner surfaces, 46 aaa and 46 aab. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surface 46 cb is inclined relative to the arcuate cylindrical inner surface 46 ca.
In an exemplary embodiment; the geometries of the upper and lower expansion cone segments 44 and 46 are substantially identical. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper expansion cone segments 44 are tapered in the longitudinal direction from the ends of the intermediate portions 44 b to the ends of the outer portions 44 c, and the lower expansion cone segments 46 are tapered in the longitudinal direction from the ends of the intermediate portions 46 b to the ends of the outer portions 46 c. In an exemplary embodiment, when the upper and lower expansion segments, 44 and 46, are positioned in a fully expanded position, the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces, 44 bba and 46 cb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments define a contiguous cylindrical surface, the arcuate spherical outer surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments define an contiguous arcuate spherical surface, and the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces, 44 cb and 46 bba, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments define a contiguous cylindrical surface.
An end of a lower retaining sleeve 48 defines a passage 48 a for receiving and mating with the outer circumferential surfaces of the external flange 40 aa and the meshing teeth 40 b of the lower cam assembly 40, and an inner annular recess 48 b, and includes an internal flange 48 c for retaining the external flange of the lower cam assembly, and an internal flange 48 d at one end of the lower retaining sleeve that includes a rounded interior end face for mating with the hinge grooves 46 aba of the lower expansion cone segments 46 thereby pivotally coupling the lower expansion cone segments to the lower retaining sleeve. An o-ring seal 50 is received within the annular recess 48 b. A disc shaped shim 49 is positioned within the lower retaining sleeve 48 between the opposing end faces of the internal flange 48 c of the retaining sleeve and the external flange 40 aa of the lower cam assembly 40.
In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces 44 bba of the upper expansion cone segments 44 and the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces 46 cb of the lower expansion cone segments 46 are aligned with the outer surface of the upper retaining sleeve 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces 44 cb of the upper expansion cone segments 44 and the arcuate cylindrical outer surfaces 46 bba of the lower expansion cone segments are aligned with the outer surface of the lower retaining sleeve 48.
An end of a float shoe adaptor 50 that includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth 50 a for engaging the meshing teeth 40 b of the lower cam assembly 40 is received within and threadably coupled to an end of the lower retaining sleeve 48 that defines a passage 50 b at one end for receiving an end of the lower mandrel 34, a passage 50 c having a reduced inside diameter at another end, a plurality of radial passages 50 d at the other end, and includes an internal flange 50 e, and a torsional coupling 50 f at the other end that includes a plurality of torsional coupling members 50 fa. During operation, the meshing teeth 40 b of the lower cam assembly 40 transmit toque loads to and from the meshing teeth 50 a of the float shoe adaptor.
An end of a retaining sleeve 52 abuts the end face of the tubular base 40 a of the lower cam assembly 40 and is received within and mates with the passage 50 b of the float shoe adaptor 50 that defines a passage 52 a for receiving an end of the lower mandrel 34, a throat passage 52 b including a ball valve seat 52 c, and includes a flange 52 d, and another end of the retaining sleeve, having a reduced outside diameter, is received within and mates with the passage 50 c of the float shoe adaptor 50.
A stop nut 54 receives and is threadably coupled to the end of the lower mandrel 34 within the passage 52 a of the retaining sleeve 52, and shear pins 56 releasably couple the stop nut 54 to the retaining sleeve 52. Locking dogs 58 are positioned within an end of the retaining sleeve 52 that receive and are releasably coupled to the lower mandrel 34, and a disc shaped adjustment shim 60 receives the lower mandrel 34 and is positioned within an end of the retaining sleeve 52 between the opposing ends of the tubular base 40 a of the upper cam assembly 40 and the locking dogs 58. Burst discs 62 are releasably coupled to and positioned within the radial passages 50 d of the float shoe adaptor 50.
An end of a float shoe 64 mates with and is releasably coupled to the torsional coupling members 50 fa of the torsional coupling 50 f of the float shoe adaptor 50 that defines a passage 64 a and a valveable passage 64 b. In this manner torsional loads may be transmitted between the float shoe adaptor 50 and the float shoe 64. An end of an expandable tubular member 66 that surrounds the tubular support member 12, the safety collar 14, the upper mandrel collar 18, the upper packer cup 24, the lower packer cup 28, the lower mandrel 34, the upper expansion cone segments 44, the lower expansion cone segments 46, and the float shoe adaptor 50, is coupled to and receives an end of the float shoe 64 and is movably coupled to and supported by the arcuate spherical external surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46.
During operation, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, the apparatus 10 is at least partially positioned within a preexisting structure such as, for example, a borehole 100 that traverses a subterranean formation that may include a preexisting wellbore casing 102. The borehole 100 may be oriented in any position, for example, from vertical to horizontal. A fluidic material 104 is then injected into the apparatus 10 through the passages 12 a, 14 a, 22 a, 34 c, 50 c, 64 a, and 64 b into the annulus between the expandable tubular member 66 and the borehole 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluidic material 104 is a hardenable fluidic sealing material. In this manner, an annular sealing layer may be formed within the annulus between the expandable tubular member 66 and the borehole 100.
As illustrated in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, a ball 106 is then be positioned within and blocking the valveable passage 64 b of the float shoe 64 by injecting a fluidic material 108 into the apparatus 10 through the passages 12 a, 14 a, 22 a, 34 c, and 50 c. As a result, the increased operating pressure within the passage 50 c bursts open the burst discs 62 positioned within the radial passages 50 d of the float shoe adaptor 50. The continued injection of the fluidic material 108 thereby pressurizes the interior of the expandable tubular member 66 below the lower packer cup 28 thereby displacing the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, upwardly relative to the float shoe 64 and the expandable tubular member 66. As a result, the expandable tubular member 66 is plastically deformed and radially expanded. Thus, the burst discs 62 sense the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material 108 within the passage 50 c and thereby control the initiation of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member 66.
In an exemplary embodiment, any leakage of the pressurized fluidic material 108 past the lower packer cup 28 is captured and sealed against further leakage by the upper packer cup 24. In this manner, the lower packer cup 28 provides the primary fluidic seal against the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66, and the upper packer cup 24 provides a secondary, back-up, fluidic seal against the interior surface of the expandable tubular member. Furthermore, because the lower packer cup 28 and/or the upper packer cup 24 provide a fluid tight seal against the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66, the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, are pulled upwardly through the expandable tubular member by the axial forces created by the packer cups.
In an exemplary embodiment, during the radial expansion process, the interface between the arcuate spherical external surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, and the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66 is not fluid tight. As a result, the fluidic material 108 may provide lubrication to the entire extent of the interface between the cylindrical external surfaces, 44 bba and 46 cb, and the arcuate spherical external surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, and the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66. Moreover, experimental test results have indicated the unexpected result that the required operating pressure of the fluidic material 108 for radial expansion of the expandable tubular member 66 is less when the interface between the cylindrical external surfaces, 44 bba and 46 cb, and the arcuate spherical external surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, and the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66 is not fluid tight. Furthermore, experimental test results have also demonstrated that the arcuate spherical external surface provided by the arcuate spherical external surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, provides radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member 66 using lower operating pressures versus an expansion cone having a conical outer surface.
In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 a, 11 b, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, may then be adjusted to a collapsed position by placing a ball 110 within the ball valve seat 52 c of the throat passage 52 b of the retaining sleeve 52. The continued injection of the fluidic material 108, after the placement of the ball 110 within the ball valve seat 52 c, creates a differential pressure across the ball 110 thereby applying a downward longitudinal force onto the retaining sleeve 52 thereby shearing the shear pins 56. As a result, the retaining sleeve 52 is displaced in the downward longitudinal direction relative to the float shoe adaptor 50 thereby permitting the locking dogs 58 to be displaced outwardly in the radial direction. The outward radial displacement of the locking dogs 58 disengages the locking dogs from engagement with the lower mandrel 34. Thus, the shear pins 56 sense the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material 108 within the throat passage 52 b and thereby controling the initiation of the collapsing of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46.
The continued injection of the fluidic material 108 continues to displace the retaining sleeve 52 in the downward longitudinal direction relative to the float shoe adaptor 50 until the external flange 52 d of the retaining sleeve 52 impacts, and applies a downward longitudinal force to, the internal flange 50 e of the float shoe adaptor. As a result, the float shoe adaptor 50 is then also displaced in the downward longitudinal direction relative to the lower mandrel 34. The downward longitudinal displacement of the float shoe adaptor 50 relative to the lower mandrel 34 causes the lower cam assembly 40, the lower expansion cone segments 46, and the lower retaining sleeve 48, which are rigidly attached to the float shoe adaptor, to also be displaced downwardly in the longitudinal direction relative to the lower mandrel 34, the upper cam assembly 38, and the upper expansion cone segments 44.
The downward longitudinal displacement of the lower cam assembly 40 relative to the upper expansion cone segments 44 causes the upper expansion cone segments to slide off of the conical external surfaces 40 cbb of the lower cam assembly and thereby pivot inwardly in the radial direction about the internal flange 42 d of the upper retaining sleeve 42. The downward longitudinal displacement of the lower expansion cone segments 46 relative to the upper cam assembly 38 causes the lower expansion cone segments 46 to slide off of the external conical surfaces 38 cbb of the upper cam assembly and thereby pivot inwardly in the radial direction about the internal flange 48 d of the lower retaining sleeve. As a result of the inward radial movement of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, the arcuate external spherical surfaces, 44 bbb and 46 bbb, of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, no longer provide a substantially contiguous outer arcuate spherical surface.
The downward longitudinal movement of the retaining sleeve 42 and float shoe adaptor 50 relative to the lower mandrel 34 is stopped when the stop nut 54 impacts the locking dogs 58. At this point, as illustrated in FIGS. 17 a and 17 b, the apparatus 10 may then be removed from the interior of the expandable tubular member 66.
Thus, the apparatus 10 may be removed from the expandable tubular member 66 prior to the complete radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member by controllably collapsing the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46. As a result, the apparatus 10 provides the following benefits: (1) the apparatus is removable when expansion problems are encountered; (2) lower expansion forces are required because the portion of the expandable tubular member 66 between the packer cups, 24 and 28, and the expansion cone segments is exposed to the expansion fluid pressure; and (3) the expansion cone segments can be run down through the expandable tubular member, prior to radial expansion, and then the expansion cone segments can be expanded.
In several alternative embodiments, resilient members such as, for example, spring elements are coupled to the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, for resiliently biasing the expansion cone segments towards the expanded or collapsed position.
In several alternative embodiments, the placement of the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, in an expanded or collapsed position is reversible.
In several alternative embodiments, a small gap is provided between the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, when positioned in the expanded condition that varies from about 0.005 to 0.030 inches.
Turning back to FIG. 10 a, as previously discussed, the lower packer cup 28 may be used to provide a primary fluidic seal against the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66, and the upper packer cup 24 provides a secondary, back-up, fluidic seal against the interior surface of the expandable tubular member. Furthermore, because the lower packer cup 28 and/or the upper packer cup 24 provide a fluid tight seal against the interior surface of the expandable tubular member 66, when the region is pressurized, the upper and lower expansion cone segments, 44 and 46, are pulled upwardly through the expandable tubular member by the axial forces created by the packer cups.
The packer cups may be made from an elastomer, the type of which depends on design pressures, fluids and temperatures. In several embodiments, the packer cups 24 and 28 are coupled to annular reinforcing elements or supports which are bonded to the elastomer to hold the elastomer in place when running in and out of the casing and when pressurized. Conventionally, the support may be wire or a single insert, such as used in the “TP” cup from Halliburton of Duncan, Okla. The support may be more complicated, for instance, it may comprise a bushing and a plurality of overlapping springs, such as used in the GW-HD cup from Guiberson Oil Tools of Alberta Canada.
Conventional packer cups are intended to remain stationary when pressurized. Any significant movement of a conventional packer cup when the cup has been pressurized may destroy the packer cup. Additionally, conventional packer cups may not be designed to hold the high pressures necessary for a casing expansion when moving through the casing. Pressure cycling and movement which occurs during casing expansion procedures may cause degradation of the elastomer and the bond between the elastomer and inserts. Eventually the elastomer disintegrates and the packer cup is unable to hold pressure. What is needed, therefore is a packer cup which can withstand the movement and pressures associated with the casing expansion procedure.
Turning now to FIG. 18, one side of a conventional cup seal or packer cup 70 is illustrated in detail. The opposing side is symmetrical about the center line of the packer cup. In the illustrated configuration, the packer cup 70 is shown located outside of the casing. Therefore, dashed lines represent the position of an expandable casing 71 relative to the packer cup 70. The packer cup 70 may be used as the upper packer cup 24 or lower packer cup 28 as described previously in reference to FIGS. 1 a and 10 a. In several alternative embodiments, the central mandrel 72 has an external flange 74, which may provide longitudinal support for a retaining sleeve or adjusting ring 76. The adjusting ring 76 receives and is coupled to the central mandrel 72. A spacer sleeve 78 also receives and is coupled to the central mandrel 72 and is longitudinally positioned between the packer cup 70 and the adjusting ring 76. In several embodiments, the adjusting ring 76 threadingly engages the spacer sleeve 78 so that the longitudinal position of the spacer sleeve may be adjusted by rotating the spacer sleeve relative to the adjusting ring 76. In turn, the spacer sleeve 78 longitudinally positions and supports the packer cup 70.
In several exemplary embodiments, the packer cup 70 comprises one or more springs 80 a and 80 b which are bonded to and radially support an elastomeric sealing cup 82 to form a cup assembly 83. The elastomeric sealing cup 82 is generally conical in shape, having a substantially unrestricted lip portion 85 for sealingly engaging the interior ID of the expandable casing 71. Opposite the lip portion 85 is a base portion 87 which is supported by a conical bushing 84 positioned between the interior side of the cup assembly 83 and the central mandrel 72. A radial thimble 86 surrounds the base portion 87 of the cup assembly 83. The radial thimble 86 has an exterior diameter which is smaller than the interior diameter of the casing by a distance “A.” In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18, the elastomeric sealing cup 82 is unsupported in a region “B” which may be generally defined as the region between a support, such as a radial thimble 86, and a point of contact “C” with the expandable casing 71.
FIG. 19 a illustrates an alternative embodiment of a packer cup 90. In several exemplary embodiments, the packer cup 90 comprises one or more springs 92 a and 92 b which are bonded to and radially support an elastomeric sealing cup 94 to form a cup assembly 95. The elastomeric sealing cup 94 is generally conical in shape, having a substantially unrestricted lip portion 93 for sealingly engaging the interior ID of the expandable casing 71. Opposite the lip portion 93 is a base portion 97 which is supported by a conical bushing 96 positioned between the cup assembly and the central mandrel 72. The supported end of the cup assembly 95 is surrounded by a radial thimble 98. The radial thimble 98 has an exterior diameter which is slightly smaller than the interior diameter, causing the distance “A” to be reduced when compared to a conventional packer cup, such as illustrated in FIG. 18.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 19 a, the elastomeric sealing cup 94 is unsupported in a region “B” which may be generally defined as the region between a support, such as the radial thimble 98, and a point of contact “C” with the expandable casing 71. In this embodiment, the longitudinal length of the radial thimble 98 has been increased, which reduces the unsupported region “B” of the elastomeric sealing cup 94 when compared to a conventional packer cup.
Reducing the length “B” of the unsupported region and the distance “A” between the exterior diameter of the thimble 98 and the ID of the casing limits movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 94 when the packer cup is pressurized. This reduced movement improves the durability of the packer seal under greater pressures than conventional packer cups.
FIG. 19 b illustrates an alternative embodiment of a packer cup 100. In several exemplary embodiments, the packer cup 100 comprises one or more springs 102 a and 102 b which are bonded to an elastomeric sealing cup 104 to form a cup assembly 105. The elastomeric sealing cup 104 is generally conical in shape, having a substantially unrestricted lip portion 103 for sealingly engaging the interior ID of the expandable casing 71. Opposite the lip portion 103 is a base portion 107 which is supported by a conical bushing 106 positioned between the elastoermic seal 104 and the central mandrel 72. A pliant backup member 108 is position between the elastomeric sealing cup 104 and a radial thimble 110. The backup member 108 may be made from any suitable pliant material, such as a fluoropolymer or fluoroelastomer (e.g., Teflon or PEEK). The use of the backup member 108 significantly reduces the unsupported region of the elastomeric sealing cup 104. Additionally, the backup member 108 easily extrudes when pressurized to expand into any gap between the outside diameter of the backup support and the ID of the casing providing a secondary seal.
The radial thimble 110 is similar to the radial thimble 98 (FIG. 19 a) in that it has an exterior diameter which is slightly smaller than the interior diameter, causing the distance “A” to be reduced. Similarly, the longitudinal length of the radial thimble 110 has been increased which reduces the unsupported length of the elastomeric sealing cup. Reducing the unsupported-region of the elastomeric sealing cup and the distance between the exterior diameter of the thimble 98 and the ID of the casing limits movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 94 when the packer cup is pressurized. This reduced movement improves the durability of the packer seal.
FIG. 19 c illustrates an alternative embodiment of a packer cup 120. In several exemplary embodiments, the packer cup 120 comprises one or more springs 122 a and 122 b which are bonded to an elastomeric sealing cup 124 to form a cup assembly 125. The elastomeric sealing cup 124 is generally conical in shape, having a substantially unrestricted lip portion 123 for sealingly engaging the interior ID of the expandable casing 71. Opposite the lip portion 123 is a base portion 127 which is supported by a conical bushing 126 positioned between the elastomeric sealing cup 124 and the central mandrel 72. A pliant backup member 128 is positioned between the elastomeric sealing cup 124 and a radial shoe 130. The backup member 128 may be made from any suitable pliant material, such as a fluoropolymer or fluoroelastomer (e.g., Teflon or PEEK). Additionally, the backup member 128 extrudes when pressurized to expand into a gap between the outside diameter of the backup member 128 and the ID of the casing. However, the use of the radial shoe 130 and the cross-sectional shape of the backup member 128 reduces the degree of extrusion when compared to packer cup 100 (FIG. 19 b).
The radial shoe 130 may be made from steel or another harden material to provide support and protection for the pliant backup member 128. The pliant backup member 128 reduces the unsupported length of the elastomeric sealing cup 124 which limits the movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 124 when the packer cup is pressurized. This reduced movement improves the durability of the packer cup.
FIG. 19 d illustrates an alternative embodiment of a packer cup 140. In several exemplary embodiments, the packer cup 140 comprises one or more springs 142 a and 142 b which are bonded to an elastomeric sealing cup 144 to form a cup assembly 145. The elastomeric sealing cup 144 is generally conical in shape, having a substantially unrestricted lip portion 143 for sealingly engaging the interior ID of the expandable casing 71. Opposite the lip portion 143 is a base portion 149 which is supported by a conical bushing 146 positioned between the elastomeric sealing cup 144 and the central mandrel 72. A support member 147 provides additional stiffness and support by surrounding the supported end of cup assembly 145. The support member 147 may be made of steel or another suitable material. The use of the support member 147 provides a stiff support for the elastomeric sealing cup 144 which reduces the movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 144. Similar to the packer cup 120 discussed in reference to FIG. 19 c, a pliant backup member 148 is positioned between the support member 147 and a radial shoe 150. The backup member 148 extrudes when pressurized to expand into a gap between the outside diameter of the backup support and the ID of the casing. However, the use of the radial shoe 150 reduces the degree of extrusion when compared to packer cup 100 (FIG. 19 b).
The radial shoe 150 may be made from steel or another harden material to provide support and protection for the pliant backup member 148. The use of a pliant backup member 148 also reduces the unsupported region of the elastomeric sealing cup 144 which limits the movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 144 when the packer cup is pressurized. This reduced movement improves the durability of the packer cup.
FIG. 19 e illustrates an alternative embodiment of a packer cup 160. In several exemplary embodiments, the packer cup 160 comprises one or more springs 162 a and 162 b which are bonded to an elastomeric sealing cup 164 to form a cup assembly 165. The elastomeric sealing cup 164 is generally conical in shape, having a substantially unrestricted lip portion 163 for sealingly engaging the interior ID of the expandable casing 71. Opposite the lip portion 163 is a base portion 167 which is supported by a conical bushing 166 positioned between the elastomeric sealing cup 164 and the central mandrel 72. The supported end of the cup assembly is also surrounded by a radial thimble 168.
In this embodiment, the elastomeric sealing cup 164 has additional elastomeric material molded proximate to the radial thimble 168 at a point “D”. Because of the use of additional elastomeric material and a longer longitudinal length of the radial thimble 98, the unsupported region of the elastomeric sealing cup 164 is significantly reduced. Reducing the unsupported region of the elastomeric sealing cup 164 and the distance between the exterior diameter of the thimble 168 and the ID of the casing 71 limits movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 164 when the packer cup is pressurized. Additionally, the radial thimble 168 has an exterior diameter which is slightly smaller than the interior diameter, causing the gap between the radial thimble 168 and the ID of the casing 71 to be reduced. The reduced gap also limits movement of the elastomeric sealing cup 164. This reduced movement improves the durability of the packer seal.
An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member has been described that includes an upper tubular support member defining a first passage, one or more cup seals coupled to the exterior surface of the upper tubular support member for sealing an interface between the upper tubular support member and the expandable tubular member, an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising: a tubular base coupled to the upper tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the tubular support member, a lower tubular support member defining a second passage fluidicly coupled to the first passage releasably coupled to the upper tubular support member, a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising: a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, and a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments, and wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper tubular support member includes: a safety collar, a torque plate coupled to the safety collar including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at an end, an upper mandrel including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end for engaging the meshing teeth of the torque plate and an external flange at another end, and a lower mandrel coupled to the external flange of the upper mandrel including an external flange including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular base of the upper cam assembly includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the external flange of the lower mandrel. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes a stop nut coupled to an end of the lower mandrel for limiting the movement of the lower tubular member relative to the lower mandrel. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes locking dogs coupled to the lower mandrel. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower tubular support member includes: a float shoe adapter including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end, an internal flange, and a torsional coupling at another end, a lower retaining sleeve coupled to an end of the float shoe adapter including an internal flange for pivotally engaging the lower expansion cone segments, and a retaining sleeve received within the float shoe adapter releasably coupled to the upper tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, an end of the retaining sleeve abuts an end of the tubular base of the lower cam assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular base of the lower cam assembly includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the float shoe adaptor. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes a float shoe releasably coupled to the torsional coupling of the float shoe adaptor, and an expandable tubular member coupled to the float shoe and supported by and movably coupled to the upper and lower expansion cone segments. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes: one or more shear pins coupled between the upper tubular support member and the lower tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes: a stop member coupled to the upper tubular support member for limiting movement of the upper tubular support member relative to the lower tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes: a float shoe releasably coupled to the lower tubular support member that defines a valveable passage, and an expandable tubular member coupled to the float shoe and supported by and movably coupled to the upper and lower expansion cone segments. In an exemplary embodiment, each upper expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the upper expansion cone segment to the upper tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, and wherein each lower expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the lower expansion cone segment to the lower tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces. In an exemplary embodiment, each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion; and wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.
An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member has also been described that includes a safety collar, a torque plate coupled to the safety collar including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at an end, an upper mandrel including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end for engaging the meshing teeth of the torque plate and an external flange at another end, a lower mandrel coupled to the external flange of the upper mandrel including an external flange including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth, a stop nut coupled to an end of the lower mandrel, an upper retaining sleeve coupled to the lower mandrel including an internal flange, one or more cup seals coupled to the upper mandrel for sealing an interface between the upper mandrel and the expandable tubular member, an upper cam assembly coupled to the lower mandrel including: a tubular base including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the external flange of the lower mandrel, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper retaining sleeve, a float shoe adapter including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end, an internal flange, and a torsional coupling at another end, a lower retaining sleeve coupled to an end of the float shoe adapter including an internal flange, a retaining sleeve received within the float shoe adapter, one or more shear pins for releasably coupling the retaining sleeve to the stop nut, a lower cam assembly coupled to the float shoe adapter including: a tubular base including a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the float shoe adapter, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower retaining sleeve and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, a float shoe releasably coupled to the torsional coupling of the float shoe adaptor, and an expandable tubular member coupled to the float shoe and supported by and movably coupled to the upper and lower expansion cone segments, wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member, wherein each upper expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the upper expansion cone segment to the upper tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, wherein each lower expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the lower expansion cone segment to the lower tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, wherein each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion, and wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.
A collapsible expansion cone assembly has also been described that includes an upper tubular support member including an internal flange, an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member including: a tubular base coupled to the upper support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper tubular support member, a lower tubular support member including an internal flange, one or more frangible couplings for releasably coupling the upper and lower tubular support members, a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member including: a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, and a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments, and wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, each upper expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the upper expansion cone segment to the upper tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, and wherein each lower expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the lower expansion cone segment to the lower tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces. In an exemplary embodiment, each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion, and wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.
A collapsible expansion cone assembly has also been described that includes an upper tubular support member including an internal flange, an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member including: a tubular base coupled to the upper support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper tubular support member, a lower tubular support member including an internal flange, one or more frangible couplings for releasably coupling the upper and lower tubular support members, a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member including: a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, and a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member, wherein each upper expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the upper expansion cone segment to the upper tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, wherein each lower expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the lower expansion cone segment to the lower tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, wherein each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion, and wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.
An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member has also been described that includes a tubular support member, a collapsible expansion cone coupled to the tubular support member, an expandable tubular member coupled to the collapsible expansion cone, means for displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member, and means for collapsing the expansion cone. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular support member includes an upper tubular support member including an internal flange and a lower tubular support member including an internal flange, wherein the expansion cone includes: an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member including: a tubular base coupled to the upper support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper tubular support member, a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member including: a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, and a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly; and wherein the apparatus further includes: means for releasably coupling the upper tubular support member to the lower tubular support member, and means for limiting movement of the upper tubular support member relative to the lower tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes: means for pivoting the upper expansion cone segments, and means for pivoting the lower expansion cone segments. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes: means for pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member.
A collapsible expansion cone has also been described that includes an upper cam assembly including: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, a lower cam assembly including: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly, means for moving the upper cam assembly away from the lower expansion cone segments, and means for moving the lower cam assembly away from the upper expansion cone segments. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface. In an exemplary embodiment, each upper expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate upper surface and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces, and wherein each lower expansion cone segment includes: an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces, an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface, and an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces. In an exemplary embodiment, each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion, and each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.
Also disclosed is a packer cup apparatus comprising a central mandrel, a sealing cup comprising a substantially unrestricted lip for sealing engaging a tubular member, and a base portion for sealingly engaging the central mandrel, a protecting member positioned longitudinally along the central mandrel, and a pliant backup member positioned between the protecting member and the sealing cup, a conical bushing positioned partially between the sealing cup and the tubular support member for supporting the base portion of the sealing cup.
A method of radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member has also been described that includes supporting the expandable tubular member using a tubular support member and a collapsible expansion cone, injecting a fluidic material into the tubular support member, sensing the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material within a first interior portion of the tubular support member, displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member, sensing the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material within a second interior portion of the tubular support member, and collapsing the collapsible expansion cone when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the second interior portion of the tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member includes: coupling one or more cup seals to the tubular support member above the collapsible expansion cone, pressuring the interior of the expandable tubular member below the cup seals, and pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member using the cup seals. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular support member includes an upper tubular support member and a lower tubular support member, and wherein collapsing the collapsible expansion cone includes displacing the upper tubular member relative to the lower tubular support member. In an exemplary embodiment, the collapsible expansion cone includes: an upper cam assembly including: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface, a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the upper tubular support member, a lower cam assembly including: a tubular base, and a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments, wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly, and a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly.
It is understood that variations may be made in the foregoing without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the teachings of the present illustrative embodiments may be used to provide a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural support. Furthermore, the elements and teachings of the various illustrative embodiments may be combined in whole or in part in some or all of the illustrative embodiments.
Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, a wide range of modification, changes and substitution is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. In some instances, some features of the present invention may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member, comprising:

an upper tubular support member defining a first passage;

one or more cup seals coupled to the exterior surface of the upper tubular support member for sealing an interface between the upper tubular support member and the expandable tubular member;

an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the upper tubular support member; and

a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in a downward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface;

a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the tubular support member;

a lower tubular support member defining a second passage fluidicly coupled to the first passage releasably coupled to the upper tubular support member;

a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member; and

a plurality of cam arms extending from the tubular base in an upward longitudinal direction, each cam arm defining an inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the upper expansion cone segments;

wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly; and

a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly;

wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments; and

wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the upper tubular support member comprises:

a safety collar;

a torque plate coupled to the safety collar comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at an end;

an upper mandrel comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end for engaging the meshing teeth of the torque plate and an external flange at another end; and

a lower mandrel coupled to the external flange of the upper mandrel comprising an external flange comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the tubular base of the upper cam assembly comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the external flange of the lower mandrel.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising:

a stop nut coupled to an end of the lower mandrel for limiting the movement of the lower tubular member relative to the lower mandrel.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising:

locking dogs coupled to the lower mandrel.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lower tubular support member comprises:

a float shoe adapter comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end, an internal flange, and a torsional coupling at another end;

a lower retaining sleeve coupled to an end of the float shoe adapter comprising an internal flange for pivotally engaging the lower expansion cone segments; and

a retaining sleeve received within the float shoe adapter releasably coupled to the upper tubular support member.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein an end of the retaining sleeve abuts an end of the tubular base of the lower cam assembly.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the tubular base of the lower cam assembly comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the float shoe adaptor.

9. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising:

a float shoe releasably coupled to the torsional coupling of the float shoe adaptor; and

an expandable tubular member coupled to the float shoe and supported by and movably coupled to the upper and lower expansion cone segments.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more shear pins coupled between the upper tubular support member and the lower tubular support member.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a stop member coupled to the upper tubular support member for limiting movement of the upper tubular support member relative to the lower tubular support member.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a float shoe releasably coupled to the lower tubular support member that defines a valveable passage; and

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each upper expansion cone segment comprises:

an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the upper expansion cone segment to the upper tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces;

an intermediate portion defining arcuate cylindrical and spherical upper surfaces and an arcuate conical lower surface; and

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces; and

wherein each lower expansion cone segment comprises:

an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface including a hinge groove for pivotally coupling the lower expansion cone segment to the lower tubular support member and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces;

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion; and wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more cup seals comprise:

a sealing cup comprising

a substantially unrestricted lip for sealing engaging the expandable tubular member, and

a base portion for sealingly engaging the tubular support member,

a protecting member positioned longitudinally along the tubular support member, and

a conical bushing positioned partially between the sealing cup and the tubular support member for supporting the base portion of the sealing cup.

16. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising a pliant backup member positioned between the protecting member and the sealing cup.

17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the pliant backup member is made from a material selected from the group consisting of fluropolymer, fluoroelastomer, Telflon, or PEEK.

18. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising a restraining member surrounding the base portion of the sealing cup for restraining the sealing cup.

19. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the protecting member is a thimble surrounding the base portion of the sealing cup.

20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein the sealing cup further comprises an unsupported portion between the thimble and a point of engagement with the expandable tubular member, and a means for reducing the unsupported portion of the sealing cup.

21. An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member, comprising:

a safety collar;

an upper mandrel comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth at one end for engaging the meshing teeth of the torque plate and an external flange at another end;

a lower mandrel coupled to the external flange of the upper mandrel comprising an external flange comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth;

a stop nut coupled to an end of the lower mandrel;

an upper retaining sleeve coupled to the lower mandrel comprising an internal flange;

one or more cup seals coupled to the upper mandrel for sealing an interface between the upper mandrel and the expandable tubular member;

an upper cam assembly coupled to the lower mandrel comprising:

a tubular base comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the external flange of the lower mandrel; and

a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper retaining sleeve;

a lower retaining sleeve coupled to an end of the float shoe adapter comprising an internal flange;

a retaining sleeve received within the float shoe adapter;

one or more shear pins for releasably coupling the retaining sleeve to the stop nut;

a lower cam assembly coupled to the float shoe adapter comprising:

a tubular base comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart meshing teeth for engaging the meshing teeth of the float shoe adapter; and

wherein the cams arms of the upper cam assembly are interleaved with and overlap the cam arms of the lower cam assembly;

a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower retaining sleeve and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly;

an expandable tubular member coupled to the float shoe and supported by and movably coupled to the upper and lower expansion cone segments;

wherein the lower expansion cone segments interleave and overlap the upper expansion cone segments;

wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface for plastically deforming and radially expanding the expandable tubular member;

wherein each upper expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces;

wherein each lower expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces;

wherein each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion; and

wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.

22. A collapsible expansion cone assembly comprising:

an upper tubular support member comprising an internal flange;

an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the upper support member; and

a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the upper tubular support member;

a lower tubular support member comprising an internal flange;

one or more frangible couplings for releasably coupling the upper and lower tubular support members;

a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member; and

a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly;

23. The assembly of claim 22, wherein each upper expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces; and

wherein each lower expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces.

24. The assembly of claim 22, wherein each upper expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion; and

25. A collapsible expansion cone assembly, comprising:

an upper tubular support member comprising an internal flange;

an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the upper support member; and

a lower tubular support member comprising an internal flange;

a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member; and

wherein each upper expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces;

wherein each lower expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces;

26. An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member, comprising:

a tubular support member;

a collapsible expansion cone coupled to the tubular support member;

an expandable tubular member coupled to the collapsible expansion cone;

means for displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member using fluid pressure; and

means for collapsing the expansion cone.

27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the tubular support member comprises an upper tubular support member comprising an internal flange and a lower tubular support member comprising an internal flange; wherein the expansion cone comprises:

an upper cam assembly coupled to the upper tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the upper support member; and

a lower cam assembly coupled to the lower tubular support member comprising:

a tubular base coupled to the lower tubular support member; and

a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the internal flange of the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly; and wherein the apparatus further comprises:

means for releasably coupling the upper tubular support member to the lower tubular support member; and

means for limiting movement of the upper tubular support member relative to the lower tubular support member.

28. The apparatus of claim 26, further comprising:

means for pivoting the upper expansion cone segments; and

means for pivoting the lower expansion cone segments.

29. The apparatus of claim 26, further comprising:

means for pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member using fluid pressure.

30. A collapsible expansion cone, comprising:

an upper cam assembly comprising:

a tubular base; and

a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly;

a lower cam assembly comprising:

a tubular base; and

a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly;

means for moving the upper cam assembly away from the lower expansion cone segments; and

means for moving the lower cam assembly away from the upper expansion cone segments.

31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the upper and lower expansion cone segments together define an arcuate spherical external surface.

32. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein each upper expansion cone segment comprises:

an inner portion defining an arcuate cylindrical upper surface and arcuate cylindrical lower surfaces;

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces; and wherein each lower expansion cone segment comprises:

an outer portion defining arcuate cylindrical upper and lower surfaces.

33. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein each upper expansion cone segment is tapered

in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion; and wherein each lower expansion cone segment is tapered in the longitudinal direction from the intermediate portion to the outer portion.

34. A packer cup apparatus comprising:

a central mandrel,

a sealing cup comprising

a substantially unrestricted lip for sealing engaging a tubular member, and

a base portion for sealingly engaging the central mandrel,

a protecting member positioned longitudinally along the central mandrel,

a pliant backup member positioned between the protecting member and the sealing cup,

a conical bushing positioned partially between the sealing cup and the central mandrel for supporting the base portion of the sealing cup.

35. The apparatus of claim 34 wherein the pliant backup member is made from a material selected from the group consisting of fluropolymer, fluoroelastomer, Telflon, or PEEK.

36. The apparatus of claim 34 further comprising a restraining member surrounding the base portion of the sealing cup for restraining the sealing cup.

37. The apparatus of claim 34 wherein the protecting member is a thimble surrounding the base portion of the sealing cup.

38. The apparatus of claim 37 wherein the sealing cup further comprises an unsupported portion between the thimble and a point of engagement with the expandable tubular member, and a means for reducing the unsupported portion of the sealing cup.

39. A method of radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member, comprising:

supporting the expandable tubular member using a tubular support member and a collapsible expansion cone;

injecting a fluidic material into the tubular support member;

sensing the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material within a first interior portion of the tubular support member;

displacing the collapsible expansion cone relative to the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member;

sensing the operating pressure of the injected fluidic material within a second interior portion of the tubular support member; and

collapsing the collapsible expansion cone when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the second interior portion of the tubular support member.

40. The method of claim 39, further comprising:

pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member comprises:

coupling one or more cup seals to the tubular support member above the collapsible expansion cone;

pressuring the interior of the expandable tubular member below the cup seals; and

pulling the collapsible expansion cone through the expandable tubular member using the cup seals.

42. The method of claim 39, wherein the tubular support member comprises an upper tubular support member and a lower tubular support member; and wherein collapsing the collapsible expansion cone comprises displacing the upper tubular member relative to the lower tubular support member.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the collapsible expansion cone comprises:

an upper cam assembly comprising:

a tubular base; and

a plurality of upper expansion cone segments interleaved with the cam arms of the upper cam assembly and pivotally coupled to the upper tubular support member;

a lower cam assembly comprising:

a tubular base; and

a plurality of lower expansion cone segments interleaved with cam arms of the lower cam assembly, each lower expansion cone segment pivotally coupled to the lower tubular support member and mating with the inclined surface of a corresponding one of the cam arms of the upper cam assembly.

44. An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member, comprising:

a tubular support member;

a collapsible expansion device coupled to the tubular support member;

an expandable tubular member coupled to the collapsible expansion cone;

means for displacing the collapsible expansion device relative to the expandable tubular member using fluid pressure; and

means for collapsing the expansion cone.

45. The apparatus of claim 44, further comprising:

means for pulling the collapsible expansion device through the expandable tubular member using fluid pressure.

46. A method of radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member, comprising:

supporting the expandable tubular member using a tubular support member and a collapsible expansion device;

injecting a fluidic material into the tubular support member;

displacing the collapsible expansion device relative to the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member;

collapsing the collapsible expansion device when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the second interior portion of the tubular support member.

47. The method of claim 46, further comprising:

pulling the collapsible expansion device through the expandable tubular member when the sensed operating pressure of the injected fluidic material exceeds a predetermined level within the first interior portion of the tubular support member.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein pulling the collapsible expansion device through the expandable tubular member comprises:

coupling one or more cup seals to the tubular support member above the collapsible expansion device;

pulling the collapsible expansion device through the expandable tubular member using the cup seals.

49. The method of claim 46, wherein the tubular support member comprises an upper tubular support member and a lower tubular support member; and wherein collapsing the collapsible expansion device comprises displacing the upper tubular member relative to the lower tubular support member.

50. A packer cup, comprising:

a base member;

one or more tubular elastomeric elements coupled to and extending from the base member in a radial direction; and

one or more tubular springs coupled to the base member that extend from the base member in a radial direction that each receive and support at least a portion of one or more of the elastomeric elements.

51. A packer cup, comprising:

a base member;

means for supporting one or more of the elastomeric elements.