SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A DUAL ACTUATED HYDRAULIC ELEVATOR WITH SAFETY LATCH

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention generally relates to a hydraulic elevator used in oil and gas well drilling rigs. Specifically, the hydraulic elevator is enhanced with a latch mechanism for added safety and use with autonomous operations.

BACKGROUND

In well drilling, specifically including oil and gas well drilling, conventional operations typically involve specialized crews and equipment that are brought to a rig site for tubular rig operation. The floor of the rig is particularly dangerous and presents a safety hazard for the rig workers required to be on the rig floor to manually operate a hydraulic elevator.

SUMMARY

It is an advantage of the present invention to provide a hydraulic elevator which may operate in −40-degree Celsius conditions, utilizes hydraulics to operate, includes safety mechanisms which ensure the elevator is locked when suspended, and operates without workers present on the rig floor.

In one general aspect, hydraulic elevator apparatus may include a left side with a hydraulic latch and a right side with a locking plate positioned along a top rim and a latch mount, the right side and left side connected by a hydraulic pivot which opens and closes the hydraulic elevator and the hydraulic elevator configured to close about a cylindrical object having a large circumference and a small circumference. In some instances, the small circumference is the body of the cylindrical object and the large circumference is a coupling or bail of the cylindrical object. While it is generally understood that the cylindrical object is in reference to one of many gas or oil well pipes (a.k.a., tubulars) of the types commonly known and used in the gas or oil well drilling industry, the invention has application beyond gas and oil well tubulars. The hydraulic elevator operating by positioning the hydraulic elevator at the small circumference of the cylindrical object between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator. The apparatus may furthermore be configured to close, via the hydraulic pivot, around the small circumference of the cylindrical object. The apparatus may, in addition, be configured to lock the hydraulic elevator around the cylindrical object by engaging the hydraulic latch, which connects the hydraulic latch to the latch mount and creates a crevice. The apparatus may moreover be configured to secure the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount by sliding the cylindrical object inside the elevator where the large circumference of the cylindrical object presses against the top rim and the locking plate pushes a member of the locking plate into the crevice created by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a non-limiting first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 2A-2D provide a front view, back view, top view, and bottom view, respectively, of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 3A-3D provide a front view, side view, front perspective view, and rear perspective view of a lifting and hydraulic mount assembly of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 4A-4C provides a perspective view, top view, and side view of a locking plate of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 5A-5C provide a front perspective view, a rear perspective view, and a bottom view of a lock latch assembly of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 6A-6C provide a front view, perspective view, and bottom view of a latch arm assembly of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 7A-7C provide a front view, perspective view, and bottom view of an elevator mount assembly of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIG. 8 provides an exploded perspective view of a non-limiting second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 9A-9D provide a front view, side view, back view, and perspective view, respectively, of a first handle mount plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 10A-10C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a second handle mount plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 11A-11B provide a perspective view and front view, respectively, of a locking plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 11C-11D provide a perspective view and side view, respectively, of the locking plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator with a member, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 12A-12C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a first elevator mount plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 13A-13C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a second elevator mount plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 14A-14C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a handle mount plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 15A-15C provide a front view, perspective view, and bottom view, respectively, of an elevator mount assembly of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 16A-16C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a latch mount handle plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 17A-17D provide a front view, side view, perspective view, and bottom view, respectively, of a latch mount assembly of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 18A-18C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a latch arm plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 19A-19C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of a latch arm assembly of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 20A-20C provide a front view, perspective view, and side view, respectively, of an elevator welding plate of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 21A-21C provide a front view, side view, and perspective view, respectively, of a first stroke piston of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 22A-22C provide a front view, side view, and perspective view, respectively, of a second stroke piston of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of an example process for operating a non-limiting example embodiment of the hydraulic elevator according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 24A-24C provide a view of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator in an open configuration, a closed configuration, and a securely closed configuration, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 25A-25D provide a front view, back view, top view, and bottom view, respectively, of a third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 26A-26D provide a perspective view, top view, and side view of a locking plate of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIGS. 27A-27B provide a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of a lifting and hydraulic mount assembly component of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein;

FIG. 27C provides a front perspective view of another lifting and hydraulic mount assembly component of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein; and

FIG. 28 illustrates an example operating environment for the hydraulic elevator, according to the systems and methods described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The systems and methods described herein may be configured to utilize a modified hydraulic elevator that may be mounted to the rig bails (e.g., pony bails, extension bails, VARLINK bails, and spring bails) of an oil and gas rig. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator may comprise of a cast iron hydraulic elevator, a spring-loaded safety locking plate, a latch (e.g., steel latch, cast iron latch, etc.), and plates mounted to either half of the elevator, with hydraulic stroke pistons, and sequence valves mounted to the plates. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator may be configured to use two hydraulic stroke pistons; the first to open and close the hydraulic elevator, and the second to open and close the latch located on the front of the hydraulic elevator. In some embodiments, a lock may be mounted to the top of the hydraulic elevator and may be positioned downward with respect to the weight of the joint of the tubular. The systems and methods described herein may configure the hydraulic elevator to halt opening when the tubular is resting inside by pressing down on a plate which inhibits the latch's ability to open. In some embodiments, the locking plate contacts both primary and secondary latches, wedging the locking plate between the two at the strongest point.

The systems and methods described herein may be configured to utilize an hydraulic elevator, a latch side plate, a latch, a side plate, a first stroke piston, a second stroke piston, a latch arm, and a lock plate.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator may operate in multiple steps. The systems and methods described herein may be configured to lower the elevator onto a length of tubular (or other cylindrical object), and may extend the first stroke piston and second stroke piston, closing the elevator around the tubular, and closing the latch on the elevator. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator may be lifted up, causing the tubular to slide down in the elevator until the neck of the tubular depresses the locking plate (the neck of the tubular having a circumference greater than the body of the tubular), inhibiting the latch's potential movement. In some embodiments, when the locking plate is depressed, the hydraulic elevator may not open until the load is removed from the lock plate without shearing through the inhibiting material. In some embodiments, when the tubular length is successfully connected to the previous tubular, the load from the locking plate may be removed. When the load is removed, the hydraulic elevator may de-actuate the first stroke piston and second stroke piston, opening the latch and releasing the tubular from the hydraulic elevator.

In some embodiments, a tubular may refer to the cylindrical steel pipe used to separate the fluids and gas going up and down a well from drinking water aquifers and geologic areas and for production to lift the targeted substance from the ground. The body of the tubular may be cylindrical and have two circumferences, one for the majority of the body and a second larger circumference at one end, which facilitates connection to another tubular.

Due to size constraints, the systems and methods described herein have been configured to have the smallest possible horizontal dimensions; great care was taken to position the first stroke piston and the second stroke piston such that they would have the smallest footprint and still have room for hydraulic controllers onboard.

The systems and methods described herein may be intended for a fully autonomous oil rig but are not limited to these operations. The systems and methods described herein may be configured for use in environments where workers cannot be present or where the workers are removed for safety and efficiency on the rig floor but will show benefits to conventional rigs by lifting tubular lengths safely and efficiently using hydraulic power. The systems and methods described herein may be configured to operate without outside intervention and may be resistant to high cycle rates, corrosion, and cold weather while operating.

Referring to FIGS. 1-7, which illustrates the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 100. FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 100 and the components thereof. FIG. 2 illustrates a front view, back view, top view, and bottom view, respectively, of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 100 when fully assembled. FIGS. 3-7 illustrates the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (120, 130), the locking plate 140, the lock latch assembly 175, the latch arm assembly 190, and the elevator mount assembly 160, respectively, of the first embodiments of the hydraulic elevator. In some embodiments, the latch arm assembly may be referred to as a bail ear assembly, which provides added support for the hydraulics.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 100 may be divided into a left half 100A and a right half 100B connected by a joint 102, which may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 100 may include a circle of tapped holes concentric across the bottom of both halves.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 100 may comprise a first handle mount plate 120, a second handle mount plate 130, and two or more handle mount plates 150 may be screwed or welded together to form a lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (120, 130, 150) which may be configured to attach at the joint 102 of the hydraulic elevator 100. In some embodiments, the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (120, 130, 150) allows the hydraulic elevator 100 to be maneuvered from a point of equal weight distribution for increased ease in allowing an operator to position a cylindrical object between the right half 100B and left half 100A of the hydraulic elevator 100 when in an open configuration during installation of the tubular to the rig or bales.

Further, the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (120, 130, 150) includes two handle mount plates 150 spaced apart to integrate with the second stroke piston 220. The second end of the second stroke piston 220 may attach to the elevator mount assembly (170, 160). In some embodiments, the elevator mount assembly (170, 160) comprises two or more handle mount plates 170 and the elevator mount plate 160. The elevator mount assembly (170, 160) may be configured to attach to the right side 100B of the hydraulic elevator 100 via two or more bolt holes 104, and the second stroke piston 220 may be configured to transition the hydraulic elevator 100 between an open configuration to a closed configuration.

In some embodiments, the locking plate 140 may be configured to attach to the right side 100B of the hydraulic elevator 100 and sit parallel with the top rim when uncompressed and flush with the top rim when compressed. In some embodiments, the locking plate 140 may be held in place with two or more spring-loaded locking plate bolts 145. In some embodiments, the locking plate 140 may be slightly above the rim of the hydraulic elevator 100 and sit flush to the rim when the springs of the locking plate bolts 145 are compressed. In some embodiments, when the hydraulic elevator 100 is in an open configuration, the locking plate 140 and the perpendicular plate may meet seamlessly to protect the hydraulics from below.

In some embodiments, the locking plate 140 may comprise a plate with at least two holes, counterbored on top, and a rectangular member extending perpendicularly from the locking plate 140, which may interfere with both halves of the locking mechanism (primary and secondary latch) should the lock latch assembly 175 try to open while the locking plate 140 is depressed. In some embodiments, two or more screws 145, with springs wrapped around, mount the locking plate 140 to the machined recess in the hydraulic elevator 100. In some embodiments, the springs may ensure the locking plate 140 is at the plate's depth above the surface of the rim of the hydraulic elevator 100 when the larger circumference of the tubular is not pressing down on the locking plate 140. In some embodiments, the springs may keep the locking plate 140 parallel to the hydraulic elevator 100 during operation. The locking plate 140 may be the same depth as the recess in the hydraulic elevator 100 rim bore, which may ensure that the locking plate 140 sits flush when depressed by the larger circumference of the tubular.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator may further comprise the latch arm assembly (180, 190). In some embodiments, the latch arm assembly (180, 190) may comprise the first elevator mount plate 190 and at least two of the latch handle plates 180. In some embodiments, the latch arm assembly (180, 190) may be connected to the left side 100A of the hydraulic elevator 100 via two or more screw holes 106 and the first stroke piston 210.

In some embodiments, the second side of the first stroke piston 210 may be connected to the lock latch assembly (175, 200). In some embodiments, the lock latch assembly (175, 200) may comprise two latch plates 200 held in parallel which are connected to the latch mechanism 175. In some embodiments, the first stroke piston 210 may engage the locking mechanism of the hydraulic elevator 100 when in an extended configuration and disengage when in a retracted configuration. In some embodiments, the lock latch assembly (175, 200) may close over the geometry of the hydraulic elevator 100 and comprise two halves, blocking the elevator's movement unless opened.

In some embodiments, the lock latch assembly (175, 200) may have a hinge that may allow the first stroke piston 210 to pull the locking mechanism open and close without applying stress to the hydraulic elevator 100. The two halves may be configured to comprise a small gap between the two; the minor half must pass through into the major half to facilitate opening.

In some embodiments, the latch arm is a robust member designed to carry the force of the first stroke piston 210 to the latch of the locking mechanism, and to be resistant to impacts from tubular on the rig. The latch arm features a hinge that may be attached to the locking mechanism, which may allow the hinge to flex past the locking point of the elevator without buckling from excess extension of the first stroke piston 210. The hinge may allow the locking mechanism to move over the geometry of the hydraulic elevator 100 as it closes, without getting caught.

The components of the hydraulic elevator may comprise 44W-50W & 1018 steel, due to its material characteristics and availability. The hydraulic elevator 100 may be comprised of cast iron.

FIGS. 8-22 illustrates the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300. FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300 and the components thereof. FIGS. 9-10 illustrate at least some of the components of the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (320, 330) of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300. FIG. 11 illustrates the locking plate 340 of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300. FIGS. 12-15 illustrate at least some of the components of the elevator mount assembly (350, 360, 365, 370) of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300. FIGS. 16-17 illustrate at least some of the components of the latch mount assembly (360, 370, 380, 385) of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300. FIGS. 18-19 illustrate at least some of the components of the latch arm assembly (390, 395) of the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300. FIG. 20 illustrates the elevator welding plate 400 which may be screwed or welded to the locking mechanism of the hydraulic elevator 300 in the second embodiment thereof. FIGS. 21-22 illustrate a first stroke piston 410 and a second stroke piston 420 for use by the second embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 300.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 300 may be divided into a left half 300A and a right half 300B connected by a joint 302, which may allow the hydraulic elevator 300 to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 300 may include a circle of tapped holes concentric across the bottom of both halves.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 300 may comprise a first handle mount plate 320, a second handle mount plate 330, and two or more handle mount plates 350 may be screwed or welded together to form a lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (320, 330, 350) which may be configured to attach at the joint 302 of the hydraulic elevator 300. In some embodiments, the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (320, 330, 350) allows the hydraulic elevator 300 to be maneuvered from a point of equal weight distribution for increased ease in allowing an operator to position a cylindrical object (e.g., tubulars, rigs bails, rigs top drives, rigs blocks, etc.) between the right half 300B and left half 300A of the hydraulic elevator 300 when in an open configuration.

Further, the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (320, 330, 350) includes two handle mount plates 350 spaced apart to integrate with the second stroke piston 420. The second end of the second stroke piston 420 may attach to the elevator mount assembly (350, 360, 365, 370). In some embodiments, the elevator mount assembly (350, 360, 365, 370) comprises two or more handle mount plates 350, the first elevator mount plate 360, a first adjoining plate 365, and a second elevator mount plate 370. The elevator mount assembly (350, 360, 365, 370) may be configured to attach to the right side 300B of the hydraulic elevator 300, and the second stroke piston 420 may be configured to transition the hydraulic elevator 300 from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

In some embodiments, the locking plate 340 may be configured to attach to the right side 300B of the hydraulic elevator 300 and sit parallel with the top rim when uncompressed and flush with the top rim when compressed. In some embodiments, the locking plate 340 may be held in place with two or more spring-loaded locking plate bolts 345. In some embodiments, the locking plate 340 may be slightly above the rim of the hydraulic elevator 300 and sit flush to the rim when the springs of the locking plate bolts 345 are compressed. In some embodiments, when the hydraulic elevator 300 is actuated open, the locking plate 340 and the side plate may meet seamlessly to protect the hydraulics from below.

In some embodiments, the locking plate 340 may comprise a plate with 2 holes, counterbored on top, and a rectangle of material as a member extending perpendicularly from the locking plate 340, which may interfere with both halves of the locking mechanism (primary and secondary latch) should the locking mechanism try to open while the plate is depressed. In some embodiments, two or more bolts 345, with springs wrapped around, mount the locking plate 340 to the machined recess in the hydraulic elevator 300. In some embodiments, the springs may ensure the locking plate 340 is at the plate's depth above the surface of the rim of the hydraulic elevator 300 when the larger circumference of the tubular is not pressing down on the locking plate 340. In some embodiments, the springs may keep the locking plate 340 parallel to the hydraulic elevator 300 during operation. The locking plate 340 may be the same depth as the recess in the hydraulic elevator 300 rim bore which may ensure the locking plate 340 sits flush when depressed by the larger circumference of the tubular.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 300 may further comprise the latch mount assembly (360, 370, 380, 385). In some embodiments, the latch mount assembly (360, 370, 380, 385) may comprise the first elevator mount plate 360, the second elevator mount plate 370, at least two of the latch handle plates 380, and a second adjoining plate 385. In some embodiments, the latch mount assembly (360, 370, 380, 385) may be connected to the left side 100A of the hydraulic elevator 300 and the first stroke piston 410. In some embodiments, the controls and hoses for the hydraulics are housed between the first elevator mount plate 360 and the second elevator mount plate 370.

In some embodiments, the second side of the first stroke piston 410 may be connected to the latch arm assembly (390, 395). In some embodiments, the latch arm assembly may comprise two latch arm plates 390 held in parallel by a third adjoining plate 395. In some embodiments, the controls and hoses for the hydraulics are housed between the two latch arm plates 390. In some embodiments, the second stroke piston 320 may engage the locking mechanism of the hydraulic elevator 300 when in an extended configuration and disengage when in a retracted configuration. The locking mechanism closes over the geometry of the hydraulic elevator 300 and comprises of two halves, blocking the elevator's movement unless opened. The minor half of the latch, normally hand-operated, must be opened to clear the way for the major half.

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may have a hinge that may allow the first stroke piston 410 to pull the locking mechanism open and close without applying stress to the latch arm assembly (390, 395). The two halves may be configured to comprise a small gap between the two; the minor half must pass through into the major half to facilitate opening.

In some embodiments, the latch arm is a robust member designed to carry the force of the first stroke piston 410 to the latch of the locking mechanism, and to be resistant to impacts from tubular on the rig. The latch arm features a hinge that may be attached to the locking mechanism, which may allow the hinge to flex past the locking point of the elevator without buckling from excess extension of the first stroke piston 410. The hinge may allow the locking mechanism to move over the geometry of the hydraulic elevator 300 as it closes, without getting caught.

The components of the hydraulic elevator may comprise 44W-50W & 1018 steel, due to its material characteristics and availability. The hydraulic elevator 300 may be comprised of cast iron.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of an example process 2300 for operating the hydraulic elevator. In some implementations, one or more process blocks of FIG. 23 may be executed by a human operator or a processor. The process 2300 is described in relation to the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator, but is not limited to any example embodiment. In some embodiments, the process 2300 may be executed by a human operator or a processor that engages controls associated with the hydraulic elevator 100 and the drilling rig on which it operates. In some embodiments, the controls may operate the functions of opening and closing the hydraulic elevator 100, lifting and positioning the hydraulic elevator 100, and other drilling rig operations. In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to execute instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable memory.

As shown in FIG. 23, process 2300 may include positioning the hydraulic elevator at the small circumference of the cylindrical object between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator (block 2302). For example, the hydraulic elevator may be lifted from the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (120, 130, 150) and lowered onto a cylindrical tubular having a neck with a circumference greater than the body of the tubular. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator may be lowered in an open configuration allowing the body of the tubular to fit into the opening of the hydraulic elevator when the tubular is positioned vertically.

As also shown in FIG. 23, process 2300 may include closing, via the hydraulic pivot, around the small circumference of the cylindrical object (block 2304). For example, the second stroke piston 220 may shift to a retracted configuration when the hydraulic elevator is positioned over the tubular body which puts the hydraulic elevator in an open configuration. In some embodiments, the extension of the second stroke piston 220 may push against the elevator mount assembly (160, 170) and the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (120, 130, 150) to convert the hydraulic elevator 100 from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

As further shown in FIG. 23, process 2300 may include locking the hydraulic elevator around the cylindrical object by engaging the hydraulic latch, which connects the hydraulic latch to the latch mount and creates a crevice (block 2306). For example, the first stroke piston 210 may extend and push against the latch mount assembly (180, 190) and apply force onto the lock latch assembly (175, 200), which may engage the locking mechanism of the hydraulic elevator 100.

As also shown in FIG. 23, process 2300 may include securing the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount by sliding the cylindrical object inside the elevator where the large circumference of the cylindrical object presses against the top rim and the locking plate pushing a member of the locking plate into the crevice created by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount (block 2308). For example, the hydraulic elevator may lift up the tubular body from the oil well and cause the tubular body to slide down through the hydraulic elevator 100 due to gravity; when the neck (having a larger circumference than the body of the tubular) may be caught at the top rim of the hydraulic elevator 100, the neck will press down upon the locking plate until it is flush with the rim of the hydraulic elevator 100. In some embodiments, the springs coiled around the locking plate bolts 145 may hold the locking plate 140 above and parallel to the rim of the hydraulic elevator 100. In some embodiments, the weight of the tubular is applied to the locking plate 140, the springs may be depressed, and the locking plate may sit flush with the rim of the hydraulic elevator 100. In some embodiments, the depression of the locking plate moves the perpendicular member of the locking plate into a crevice created by the locking mechanism and may secure the lock.

FIGS. 24A-24C provides a view of the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 100 in an open configuration, a closed configuration, and a securely closed configuration.

FIG. 24A provides a view of the hydraulic elevator 100 in an open configuration positioned with the small diameter of a tubular resting against the interior cavity. In some embodiments, the first stroke piston 210 and the second stroke piston 220 may be in a retracted configuration. In some embodiments, the retracted configuration of the second stroke piston 220 may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to be in an open configuration. In some embodiments, the retracted configuration of the first stroke piston 210 may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to be in an unlatched configuration.

FIG. 24B provides a view of the hydraulic elevator 100 in a closed configuration positioned with the small diameter of the tubular resting inside the interior cavity. In some embodiments, the first stroke piston 210 and the second stroke piston 220 may be in an extended configuration. In some embodiments, the extended configuration of the second stroke piston 220 may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to be in a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the extended configuration of the first stroke piston 210 may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to be in a latched configuration. The latched configuration is not secure until load is placed on the locking plate 140 and the perpendicular member of the locking plate 140 is pushed into the crevice inside the locking mechanism of the hydraulic elevator 100.

FIG. 24C provides a view of the hydraulic elevator 100 in a securely closed configuration positioned with the small diameter of the tubular resting inside the interior cavity and the larger diameter of the tubular pressing down on the locking plate 140. In some embodiments, the first stroke piston 210 and the second stroke piston 220 may be in an extended configuration. In some embodiments, the extended configuration of the second stroke piston 220 may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to be in a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the extended configuration of the first stroke piston 210 may allow the hydraulic elevator 100 to be in a latched configuration. The latched configuration may be secure due to the larger diameter of the tubular pressing down on the locking plate 140 and sitting flush on the upper rim of the hydraulic elevator 100. The downward force of the larger diameter of the tubular may move the perpendicular member of the locking plate 140 into a crevice of the locking mechanism and may ensure the locking mechanism cannot be opened without shearing through the perpendicular member.

FIGS. 25A-25B provide, respectively, a front view, a back view, a top view, and a bottom view of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 500. The third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 500 may share many components in common with the first embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 100, except for the third embodiment of the hydraulic mount assembly (520, 530) and the third embodiment of the locking plate 540. FIGS. 26A-26D provide a perspective view, top view, and side view of a locking plate 520 of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 500. FIGS. 27A-27B provide front and rear perspective views of a lifting and hydraulic mount assembly component 520 of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 500. FIG. 27C provides a front perspective view of another lifting and hydraulic mount assembly component 530 of the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 500.

In some embodiments, the third embodiment of the hydraulic elevator 500 may be divided into a left half 500A and a right half 500B connected by a joint 502, which may allow the hydraulic elevator 500 to pivot from an open configuration to a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 500 may include a circle of tapped holes, concentrically arranged across the bottom of both halves.

In some embodiments, the locking plate 540 may be configured to attach to the right side 500B of the hydraulic elevator 500 and sit parallel with the top rim when uncompressed and flush with the top rim when compressed. In some embodiments, the locking plate 540 may comprise a rim plate and an elongated member arranged perpendicularly thereto. In some embodiments, the rim plate may be thicker to stand out from the top rim of the hydraulic elevator 500 when compressed and to be more easily visually inspected by an operator. In some embodiments, the locking plate 540 may be held in place with two or more spring-loaded locking plate bolts. In some embodiments, the locking plate 540 may be slightly above the rim of the hydraulic elevator 500 and sit flush to the rim when the springs of the locking plate bolts are compressed. In some embodiments, when the hydraulic elevator 500 is in an open configuration, the locking plate 540 and the perpendicular plate may meet seamlessly to protect the hydraulics from below.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 500 may comprise a first handle mount plate 520, a second handle mount plate 530, and two or more handle mount plates may be screwed or welded together to form a lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (520, 530) which may be configured to attach at or near the joint 502 of the hydraulic elevator 500. In some embodiments, the lifting and hydraulic mount assembly (520, 530) allows the hydraulic elevator 500 to be maneuvered from a point of equal weight distribution for increased ease in allowing an operator to position a cylindrical object between the right half 500B and left half 500A of the hydraulic elevator 500 when in an open configuration during installation of the tubular to the rig or bales. In some embodiments, the elongated form of the first handle mount plate 520 and the second handle mount plate 530 allows an operator to more easily visually inspect the hydraulic elevator 500 during operation.

FIG. 28 illustrates an example operating environment 2800 in which the hydraulic elevator 100 may run. In some embodiments, the example operating environment 2800 may include the hydraulic elevator 100, a casing running tool 2801. Example operating environment 2800 may utilize any of the embodiments described above and may work in conjunction with any tubular running tool.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 100 may further comprise a processor 2800, a memory 2802, a first actuator control 2804, and a second actuator control 2806. In some embodiments, the processor 2800 may comprise one or more computing cores, which may be configured to execute commands stored in the memory 2802. In some embodiments, the memory 2802 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium that may store computer instructions for execution by the processor 2800. In some embodiments, the first actuator control 2804 may control the first stroke piston 210 and cause a conversion between a closed configuration and an open configuration, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the second actuator control 2806 may control the second stroke piston 220 to convert the lock latch assembly 175 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration, or vice versa.

In some embodiments, the casing running tool 2801 may comprise a processor 2808, a memory 2810, a motion control 2812, and a rotation control 2814. In some embodiments, the processor 2808 may comprise one or more computing cores, which may be configured to execute commands stored in the memory 2810. In some embodiments, the memory 2810 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium that may store computer instructions for execution by the processor 2808. In some embodiments, the motion control 2812 may be configured to execute axial movement—including hoisting, lowering, and reciprocation of the cylindrical object. In some embodiments, the rotation control 2814 may be configured to enable high-speed spin-in, controlled torque makeup, and continuous slow rotation of the string holding the hydraulic elevator 100. In some embodiments, operation over the controls may be managed either manually by the human operator (e.g., using the drawworks brake and throttle), automatically via pre-programmed software routines stored in the system's memory, or some combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the controls may be operated by an operator, software, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the hydraulic elevator 100 may be communicatively coupled to the casing running tool 2801 via a network, wired connection, or any appropriate interface that communicates between devices.

CLAUSES

Example Clause A: A method for positioning a cylindrical object, the method may include: operating a hydraulic elevator may include a left side with a hydraulic latch and a right side with a locking plate positioned along a top rim and a latch mount, the right side and left side connected by a hydraulic pivot which opens and closes the hydraulic elevator, and the hydraulic elevator configured to close about the cylindrical object having a large circumference and a small circumference; positioning the hydraulic elevator at the small circumference of the cylindrical object between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator; closing, via the hydraulic pivot, around the small circumference of the cylindrical object; and locking the hydraulic elevator around the cylindrical object by engaging the hydraulic latch, which connects the hydraulic latch to the latch mount and forms a crevice.

Example Clause B: The method of Example Clause A, further may include: securing the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount by sliding the cylindrical object inside the hydraulic elevator, where the large circumference of the cylindrical object presses against the top rim, and the locking plate pushes a member of the locking plate into the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

Example Clause C: The method of Example Clause A or Example Clause B, further may include: lifting the cylindrical object, via the hydraulic elevator, and aligning the cylindrical object with the center of a wellbore; lowering the cylindrical object onto a surface at the center of the wellbore; and disengaging the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount as the cylindrical object is lowered onto the surface, and the weight of the cylindrical object is transferred from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface, causing the locking plate to withdraw the member of the locking plate from the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

Example Clause D: The method of any one of Example Clauses A-C, further may include: opening the hydraulic elevator, via the hydraulic pivot, forming a gap between the right side and the lift side greater than the small circumference of the cylindrical object; and moving the hydraulic elevator in a direction perpendicular to the alignment of the cylindrical object until the cylindrical object is not between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator.

Example Clause E: The method of any one of Example Clauses A-D, where lowering the cylindrical object onto a surface at the center of the wellbore causes the weight of the cylindrical object to be transferred from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface, and for a biasing element of the locking plate to withdraw the member from the crevice as the weight of the cylindrical object transfers from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface.

Example Clause F: The method of any one of Example Clauses A-E, where the member of the locking plate, when engaged in the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount, inhibits the hydraulic elevator from separating the left side from the right side.

Example Clause G: The method of any one of Example Clauses A-F, where the cylindrical object is a tubular secured to a coupling, where the small circumference is the outer circumference of the tubular and the large circumference is the outer circumference of the coupling.

Example Clause H: A device for positioning a cylindrical object may include one or more controls configured to: operate a hydraulic elevator may include a left side with a hydraulic latch and a right side with a locking plate positioned along a top rim and a latch mount, the right side and left side connected by a hydraulic pivot which opens and closes the hydraulic elevator, and the hydraulic elevator configured to close about the cylindrical object having a large circumference and a small circumference; position the hydraulic elevator at the small circumference of the cylindrical object between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator; close, via the hydraulic pivot, around the small circumference of the cylindrical object; and lock the hydraulic elevator around the cylindrical object by engaging the hydraulic latch, which connects the hydraulic latch to the latch mount and forms a crevice.

Example Clause I: The device of Example Clause H, where the one or more controls are further configured to operate the device to: secure the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount by sliding the cylindrical object inside the hydraulic elevator, where the large circumference of the cylindrical object presses against the top rim, and the locking plate pushes a member of the locking plate into the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

Example Clause J: The device of Example Clause H or Example Clause I, where the one or more controls are further configured to operate the device to: lift the cylindrical object, via the hydraulic elevator, and align the cylindrical object with the center of a wellbore; lower the cylindrical object onto a surface at the center of the wellbore; and disengage the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount as the cylindrical object is lowered onto the surface, and the weight of the cylindrical object is transferred from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface, causing the locking plate to withdraw the member of the locking plate from the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

Example Clause K: The device of any one of Example Clauses H-J, where the one or more controls are further configured to operate the device to: open the hydraulic elevator, via the hydraulic pivot, forming a gap between the right side and the lift side greater than the small circumference of the cylindrical object; and move the hydraulic elevator in a direction perpendicular to the alignment of the cylindrical object until the cylindrical object is not between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator.

Example Clause L: The device of any one of Example Clauses H-K, where lowering the cylindrical object onto a surface at the center of the wellbore causes the weight of the cylindrical object to be transferred from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface, and for a biasing element of the locking plate to withdraw the member from the crevice as the weight of the cylindrical object transfers from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface.

Example Clause M: The device of any one of Example Clauses H-L, where the member of the locking plate, when engaged in the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount, inhibits the hydraulic elevator from separating the left side from the right side.

Example Clause N: A device for positioning a cylindrical object may include: one or more controls configured to: operate a hydraulic elevator may include a left side with a hydraulic latch and a right side with a locking plate positioned along a top rim and a latch mount, the right side and left side connected by a hydraulic pivot which opens and closes the hydraulic elevator, and the hydraulic elevator configured to close about the cylindrical object having a large circumference and a small circumference; position the hydraulic elevator at the small circumference of the cylindrical object between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator; close, via the hydraulic pivot, around the small circumference of the cylindrical object; and lock the hydraulic elevator around the cylindrical object by engaging the hydraulic latch, which connects the hydraulic latch to the latch mount and forms a crevice.

Example Clause O: The device of Example Clause N, where the one or more controls are further configured to cause the device to: secure the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount by sliding the cylindrical object inside the hydraulic elevator, where the large circumference of the cylindrical object presses against the top rim, and the locking plate pushes a member of the locking plate into the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

Example Clause P: The device of Example Clause N or Example Clause O, where the one or more controls are further configured to cause the device to: lift the cylindrical object, via the hydraulic elevator, and align the cylindrical object with the center of a wellbore; lower the cylindrical object onto a surface at the center of the wellbore; and disengage the connection between the hydraulic latch and the latch mount as the cylindrical object is lowered onto the surface, and the weight of the cylindrical object is transferred from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface, causing the locking plate to withdraw the member of the locking plate from the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount.

Example Clause Q: The device of any one of Example Clauses N-P, where the one or more controls are further configured to cause the device to: open the hydraulic elevator, via the hydraulic pivot, forming a gap between the right side and the lift side greater than the small circumference of the cylindrical object; and move the hydraulic elevator in a direction perpendicular to the alignment of the cylindrical object until the cylindrical object is not between the left side and the right side of the hydraulic elevator.

Example Clause R: The device of any one of Example Clauses N-Q, where lowering the cylindrical object onto a surface at the center of the wellbore causes the weight of the cylindrical object to be transferred from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface, and for a biasing element of the locking plate to withdraw the member from the crevice as the weight of the cylindrical object transfers from the hydraulic elevator and onto the surface.

Example Clause S: The device of any one of Example Clauses N-R, where the member of the locking plate, when engaged in the crevice formed by locking the hydraulic latch and the latch mount, inhibits the hydraulic elevator from separating the left side from the right side.

Example Clause T: The device of any one of Example Clauses N-S, where the cylindrical object is a tubular secured to a coupling, where the small circumference is the outer circumference of the tubular and the large circumference is the outer circumference of the coupling.

EXAMPLE APPARATUS CLAUSES

Example Apparatus Clause A: An apparatus for maneuvering a cylindrical object, the apparatus may include: a left side and a right side, each side having a c-shaped cross section, where the left side and right side define a receiving cavity configured to enclose the circumference of the cylindrical object when in a closed configuration; a pivot joint coupling a first end of the left side and a first end of the right side; a first actuator coupled between the right side and the pivot joint and configured to drive the left side and the right side from an open configuration to the closed configuration; a second actuator coupled between the left side and a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism positioned at a second end of the right side and a second end of the left side, the second actuator configured to fasten the locking mechanism to lock the right side and left side in the closed configuration;

Example Apparatus Clause B: The apparatus of Example Apparatus Clause A, further may include: a locking plate positioned substantially parallel to a top lip of the right side, the locking plate being movable relative to the right side.

Example Apparatus Clause C: The apparatus of Example Apparatus Clause A or Example Apparatus Clause B, further may include: a biasing element coupled to the locking plate configured to urge the locking plate into a raised position elevated above the top lip of the right side.

Example Apparatus Clause D: The apparatus of any one of Example Apparatus Clause A-C, where, when the right side and left side are in the closed position, exertion of a downward pressure upon the locking plate moves the locking plate into a flush position with the top lip of the right side.

Example Apparatus Clause E: The apparatus of any one of Example Apparatus Clause A-D, further may include: a member perpendicularly coupled to the locking plate.

Example Apparatus Clause F: The apparatus of any one of Example Apparatus Clause A-E, where movement to the flush position causes the member to extend into a crevice formed between the second ends of the right side and left side, thereby preventing the right side and left side from pivoting away from the closed configuration.

Several embodiments have been discussed in the foregoing description. However, the embodiments discussed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the invention to any particular form. The terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings and the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. In some instances, the automation of which is to limit the injuries which may be incurred by workers.