Key information

Title
OPEN WATER TOOL FOR WELL EQUIPMENT, AND METHOD OF OPERATION
Application number
20251134
Case type
National
Status
24.09.2025 Første realitetsuttalelse foreligger
Filed
24.09.2025
Priority
12.03.2025 NO 20250270
Effective date
24.09.2025
Publicly available
14.09.2026
Next annual fee due
30.09.2027
Applicant
CCB SUBSEA AS (NO)
Inventor
Bjarte Bjørkeli (NO)
Agent
HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS (NO)

Abstract and drawing

Disclaimer: This text has been machine-scanned and may contain errors – please refer to "Publications" for legally binding content.
A cross-vendor well equipment configurable tool (1’/1’’) and a method for retrieving a Tubing Hanger (6’/6’’) and associated well tubing from a subsea WH, or from a subsea horizontal X-mas tree in open water is described. Alternatively, the device may be used to retrieve or install other equipment, typically an internal tree cap (4’/4’’) or a bore protector.

Publications

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Date
 Date Doc. No. Process Case number In/Out Journal description To/from
 12.06.2026 04-05 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01_Norwegian translation of claims HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 12.06.2026 04-04 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01 Response_Office_Action_June_12_2026 HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 12.06.2026 04-03 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01 Desription and Claims Amended HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 12.06.2026 04-02 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01 Desription and Claims Amended MARKEDUP HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 12.06.2026 04-01 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 02.03.2026 03-02 Saksbehandling 20251134 UT PT report 11:23:33
02.03.2026 03-01 Saksbehandling 20251134 UT Substantive examination HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 25.09.2025 02-01 Saksbehandling 20251134 UT Informasjon til oppfinner Bjarte Bjørkeli
 24.09.2025 01-04 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01_Figures Sheets 1-17 HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 24.09.2025 01-03 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01 Signed GPoA HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 24.09.2025 01-02 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN P31793NO01 Desription and Claims for filing NIPO HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 24.09.2025 01-01 Saksbehandling 20251134 INN Søknadsskjema Patent HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS

Description, claims and drawings

Disclaimer: This text has been machine-scanned and may contain errors – please refer to "Publications" for legally binding content. Description
OPEN WATER TOOL FOR WELL EQUIPMENT, AND METHOD OF OPERATION FIELDThe invention relates to a device and a method, typically used for retrieval of a Tubing Hanger, (hereinafter denoted TH), and associated well tubing from a subsea wellhead, (hereinafter denoted WH), or from a subsea X-mas Tree. Alternatively, the device may be used to retrieve or install other equipment, typically an internal tree cap, (hereinafter denoted ITC), of a subsea X-mas Tree (hereinafter denoted XT), or a bore protector, (hereinafter denoted BP).More specifically, the invention concerns a tool for open water operations, configurable across different WH/TH and XT/TH/ITC/BP makes, where the tool will be locked onto an external WH hub profile, or a “WH-like” hub profile of an XT upper body prior to its use. The invention further concerns a method for operating the tool during open water retrieval operations: i.e., typically latching and locking it onto a TH or ITC, un-locking a TH from a subsea WH, or unlocking a TH/ITC from a XT, subsequently retracting the equipment from its former engagement, and finally release the tool from its connection to a subsea WH or XT, thus allowing retrieval of the tool with the released equipment to the surface.Although subsea well equipment retrieval may be a primary mode of operation for the tool, the invention further concerns a method to install equipment such as an ITC or BP into an XT.BACKGROUNDWithin the field of oil and gas production from subsea reservoirs, arranging a valve tree on a subsea wellhead is well known. Distinguishing between vertical valve trees (hereinafter denoted VXT) on one hand, and horizontal trees (hereinafter denoted HXT) on the other hand is also well known. The method for installation of production tubing in the well is fundamentally different for a VXT compared with an HXT. For a VXT, the Tubing Hanger is installed and locked into the WH before the valve tree is installed, while the TH of a HXT is installed and locked into a central cavity of the HXT main body. A traditional working principle is that equipment to be installed in a WH or HXT is provided with a set of locking dogs that are radially displaced by a locking sleeve to engage with an internal locking profile/groove in the WH or HXT. A running/retrieval tool is connected to and operates the locking sleeve during installation and retrieval operations of equipment such as TH/ITC/BP.Many subsea developments are reaching the end of their productive life cycles. The number of subsea wells that shall be permanently plugged and abandoned, (hereinafter denoted PP&A) will rise significantly in coming years. The traditional method of PP&A is based on use of an offshore drilling rig, a drilling riser, and a Blowout Preventer, - BOP. The associated cost will be huge, due to high day-rates, and time spent on operations. The invention shall provide a useful and cost saving alternative to traditional in-riser well operations when the well barrier situation allows open water operations.From the patent literature, the following publication is cited as background art:US 2023/0193710 A1 discloses a modular, universal recovery tool system and a method for open water retrieval of a Tubing Hanger and/or other equipment, typically during PP&A operations. The system is configured with an upper body and a lower body, removably coupled to the upper body, with a passage extending through both the upper body and the lower body. The lower body includes one or more gripping components, the gripping component being movable, responsive to pressure applied via the passage. The lower body also includes one or more gripping component retainers.The invention has for its object to remedy or to reduce at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative to prior art.A simple tool will be provided, which will be easy to handle, efficient to use, and which can be run in open water from a well intervention vessel, rather than in a traditional manner, from a large drilling rig. Deployment and retrieval from/to the surface will be wire operations, combined with Remotely Operated Vehicle assistance, (hereinafter denoted ROV) for hydraulic and mechanical tool operation.The purpose is fulfilled by features specified in the description below, and subsequent patent claims.SUMMARYAccording to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a tool for open water operation, such as retrieval of a tubing hanger from a subsea wellhead, or from a X-mas tree, and retrieval or installation of equipment, such as an internal tree cap for a subsea X-mas tree, or a bore protector, wherein the tool comprises: a main hydraulic cylinder withP31793NO01 Description and claims a piston; a tool structure; a hydraulic ROV panel; a guide skirt, for entry onto a wellhead or X-mas tree; a plurality of counter hold dogs to engage with a wellhead or x-mas tree; and an axially displaceable latch device attached to the piston, wherein the axially displaceable latch device is interchangeable and removably attached to the piston.The tool may further comprise at least one of the following means for handling of the tool: a lug, and/or an eye. The counter hold dogs may be activated via at least one of the following means: mechanically through an ROV handle, and hydraulically by a hydraulic cylinder via a push/pull device.The latch device may comprise an axially displaceable latch body comprising: a plurality of latch dog actuation pistons in the latch body; a plurality of radially oriented latch dogs; a plurality of radially oriented top ring shear pins; a top ring; a push ring; and a plurality of push rods that connect the top ring and the push ring via associated bores in the latch body. The latch body of the latch device may further comprise least one guide groove for a latch dog interface pin. The latch body of the latch device may further comprise a plurality of sealing plugs for latch dog piston cavities. The plurality of radially oriented latch dogs may feature a push/pull interface to their actuation piston, including a latch dog interface pin.The latch device may further comprise a guide ring, a collet finger ring with collet fingers, a plurality of radially oriented collet finger shear pins, and a plurality of radially oriented guide pins.The interchangeable latch device is the main feature that sets the different tool embodiments apart and enables cross-vendor functionality.- In a first embodiment of the latch device, a collet finger ring with collet fingers, designed to be connected to the latch body of the latch device, will be engaged with and used to enable actuation of a well equipment (TH/ITC/BP) lock sleeve.- In a second embodiment of the latch device, a set of latch dogs will be operated to directly engage with and enable actuation of a well equipment lock sleeve.In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for retrieval of WH or XT equipment such as a TH, ITC or BP in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention, where the latch device is fitted with a ring with collet fingers. The method comprises the following steps:a) Launch of the tool into the sea, with the main hydraulic piston and the attached latch device kept in a first, retracted position, with latch dogs retracted inside the latchP31793NO01 Description and claims body, the collet finger ring and latch body held in place with a plurality of shear pins, and;with the counter hold dogs kept in a first, unlatched position.b) The tool is guided and landed in open water onto a WH or XT. ROV hydraulics are connected to the tool and counter hold dogs are mechanically or hydraulically actuated to a second position, causing radial engagement with the external locking profile of the WH or XT body;c) The hydraulic cylinder piston is stroked from its first, retracted end position, to an intermediate, extended position, whereby the collet finger ring of the latch device will be pushed into a TH or ITC. The push ring will land on the TH or ITC, and the collet fingers will spring into engagement with an internal, encircling locking groove at the top of the TH or ITC lock sleeve, and;d) as the main hydraulic cylinder piston is stroked further, the force applied on the latch body will break the shear pins between the collet finger ring and the latch body and also break the shear pins between the top ring and the latch body, whereupon the latch body will be axially displaced inside the stationary collet finger ring. Guide pins in the collet finger ring will slide along corresponding, vertical grooves in the guide ring, while the latch body will be displaced along push rods towards the latch device push ring, which pass through axial bores in the latch body. The joined cylinder piston and latch body will reach a second end position when the latch body hits the push ring, now resting against the top of the TH or ITC.A narrow, lower edge of the latch body will now be wedged between engaged collet fingers and the outside rim of the push ring and will prevent the collet fingers from slipping out of engagement with the locking groove at the top of the TH or ITC lock sleeve.The stroke length between the first and second end positions of the main cylinder piston and latch body will depend on the operation and the equipment make, i.e. TH for WH and TH vs. ITC for XT.e) Latch dogs will now be aligned with corresponding apertures in the collet finger ring.The latch dog pistons are then hydraulically actuated and will drive the latch dogs into radial engagement with the collet finger ring apertures, thus joining the latch body with the collet finger ring in preparation for equipment retrieval.f) The main cylinder piston is then returned from its second end position, thus pulling the latch body with the now attached collet finger ring and the connected TH or ITCP31793NO01 Description and claims lock sleeve with it, causing the TH or ITC locking dogs to be disengaged from their engagement inside the WH or XT, and;the main cylinder piston stroke is continued, until it reaches its first, retracted end position, thus lifting the TH or ITC clear from its engagement inside the WH or XT. g) Finally, the counter hold dogs are hydraulically or mechanically returned to their first, unlatched position.ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool and connected equipment will then be retrieved to the surface as a wire operation from a well intervention vessel, as per applicable operational procedures.In one embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for wellhead or X-mas tree equipment retrieval in open water with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention. In this embodiment, the tool may include the first embodiment of the latch device. The method comprises the following steps:a) launching the tool into a sea, with: the cylinder piston and attached latch device in a first, retracted position; the latch dogs retracted inside the latch body; the top ring fixed to the latch body with the plurality of top ring shear pins; the collet finger ring connected to the latch body with the plurality of collet finger shear pins; and the counter hold dogs in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing of the tool onto a wellhead or X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and actuating the counter hold dogs to engage an external locking profile of a wellhead or X-mas tree body;c) stroking the hydraulic cylinder piston from its first, retracted end position, to an intermediate, extended position, whereby: the latch device is axially displaced; the collet finger ring with collet fingers is pushed into the equipment to be retrieved; the push ring lands on top of the equipment to be retrieved; and collet fingers spring into engagement with an internal, encircling locking groove of a lock sleeve of the equipment to be retrieved;d) the applied force breaking the collet finger shear pins and the top ring shear pins as the main hydraulic cylinder piston stroke is continued, whereupon: the latch body is axially displaced inside the collet finger ring, along the push rods; guide pins in the collet finger ring slide along corresponding, vertical grooves in the guide ring, until aP31793NO01 Description and claims narrow edge at the lower end of the latch body is wedged between engaged collet fingers and the outside rim of the push ring;e) bringing the hydraulically actuating latch dogs into radial engagement with the aligned collet finger ring apertures, thus joining the latch body with the collet finger ring; f) returning the cylinder piston from its second, extended end position, hoisting the latch body, while pulling at the lock sleeve of the equipment to be retrieved, thereby: disengaging locking dogs (42’), and lifting the equipment to be retrieved clear from its former engagement;g) returning the counter hold dogs to their first position, thus unlatching the tool before ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool and connected equipment is retrieved to a surface.In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for retrieval of WH or XT equipment such as a TH, an ITC or a BP in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention, where latch dogs of the latch body will directly engage and operate a TH or ITC lock sleeve. The method comprises the following steps:a) Launch of the tool into the sea, with the hydraulic cylinder piston and the attached latch body in a first, retracted position, with latch dogs retracted inside the latch body, and;with the counter hold dogs kept in a first, unlocked position.b) The tool is guided and landed in open water onto a WH or XT. ROV hydraulics are connected to the tool and the counter hold dogs are mechanically or hydraulically actuated to a second position, causing radial engagement with the external locking profile of the WH or XT body;c) The main hydraulic cylinder piston is stroked from its first, retracted end position, towards a second, extended position, whereby the latch device push ring will first land inside the TH or ITC. Continued piston displacement will cause the latch body to be displaced along the push rods, which pass through axial bores in the latch body, until the latch body is fully inserted into the TH or ITC.d) The latch dogs of the latch body are now aligned with an internal, encircling locking groove at the top of the TH or ITC lock sleeve, and the latch dogs are hydraulically actuated into radial engagement with the lock sleeve locking groove.P31793NO01 Description and claims e) The main hydraulic cylinder piston is then returned from its second end position, thus pulling the latch body and the attached TH or ITC lock sleeve with it, causing release of the TH or ITC from its engagement inside the WH or XT, and;f) the main hydraulic cylinder piston stroke is continued towards its first, retracted end position, thus lifting the TH or ITC clear from engagement in the WH or XT.g) Finally, the counter hold dogs are hydraulically or mechanically returned to their first position, and the tool is unlatched from the WH or XT body, and;ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool and connected equipment is retrieved to the surface as a wire operation from a well intervention vessel, as per applicable operational procedures.In one embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for wellhead or X-mas tree equipment retrieval in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention. In this embodiment, the tool may include the second embodiment of the latch device. The method comprises the following steps:a) launching the tool into a sea, with: the cylinder piston and attached latch device in a first, retracted position; the latch dogs retracted inside the latch body; and the counter hold dogs in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing the tool onto a wellhead or X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and actuating the counter hold dogs to engage an external locking profile of a wellhead or X-mas tree body;c) stroking the hydraulic cylinder piston from its first, retracted end position, towards a second, extended position, whereby: the latch device is axially displaced; the push ring lands on the equipment to be retrieved; the latch body is displaced further, along push rods which pass through axial bores in the latch body, until the latch body is fully inserted into the equipment to be retrieved; and latch dogs are aligned with an internal, encircling locking groove at the top of a lock sleeve;d) actuating the latch dogs into radial engagement with the lock sleeve locking groove; e) returning the cylinder piston from its second, extended end position, thus pulling the latch body and the attached lock sleeve with it, releasing the equipment to be retrieved, and;P31793NO01 Description and claims f) continuing the hydraulic cylinder piston stroke until it reaches its first, retracted end position, thus lifting the equipment to be retrieved clear from its engagement inside the wellhead or X-mas tree;g) returning the counter hold dogs to their first, unlatched position, and retrieving the tool and the connected equipment to a surface.In a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for installation of equipment such as an ITC or a BP into an XT in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention, where the latch device is fitted with a collet finger ring.The method comprises the following steps in an example based on installation of an ITC: a) At the surface, an ITC is attached to a tool latch device, with a collet finger ring engaged with an internal locking groove of the ITC lock sleeve. The latch body is positioned so that the lower edge of the latch body will prevent the engaged collet fingers to deflect, thus keeping the ITC securely attached to the tool. The latch dogs have been radially extended to engage corresponding apertures in the collet finger ring, thus keeping the latch body joined with the collet finger ring during deployment. Shear pins are installed through the top ring, into the top of the latch body, thus keeping the latch body and collet finger ring with the connected ITC locking sleeve in a retracted position during deployment. The cylinder piston with the latch body is positioned in its first, retracted end position. The counter hold dogs are kept in a first, retracted and unlatched position.b) The ITC, attached to the bottom end of the tool, is launched into the sea, and is guided and landed onto the top of an XT.ROV hydraulics are connected to the tool, and the counter hold dogs are actuated to a second position, causing radial engagement with the external locking profile of the WH or XT body;c) The main cylinder piston is stroked from its first, retracted end position, and the latch device is axially displaced until the ITC is fully landed in the XT, and;the main cylinder piston stroke is continued towards its second end position, whereby the force applied on the latch body will cause shear pins between the top ring and the latch body to break, allowing the latch body and the connected collet finger ring to be axially displaced together with the ITC lock sleeve, thus facilitating locking of the ITC into the XT.P31793NO01 Description and claims d) The latch dogs are then radially retracted from their engagement with the collet finger ring apertures by hydraulic actuation of the associated latch dog pistons, thus allowing axial movement of the latch body inside the collet finger ring, which is still engaged with the lock sleeve.e) The main cylinder piston is then returned from its second end position, thus pulling the latch body with it, whereby the lower edge of the latch body will first be pulled out of its wedged engagement between the engaged collet fingers and the outside rim of the push ring. The collet fingers will deflect and be pulled out of engagement with the locking sleeve. The final part of the cylinder piston stroke to its first, retracted end position will lift the latch body and collet finger ring clear of the installed ITC. f) Finally, the counter hold dogs are hydraulically or mechanically returned to their first position, whereby the counter hold dogs will be unlatched from the external locking profile of the WH or XT body.g) ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool is retrieved to the surface as a wire operation from a well intervention vessel, as per applicable operational procedures.In one embodiment of the fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for X-mas tree equipment installation in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention. In this embodiment, the tool may include the first embodiment of the latch device. The method comprises the following steps:a) launching of the tool into a sea, with: equipment to be installed attached to the latch device, with a collet finger ring engaged via collet fingers with an internal locking groove of a lock sleeve; the narrow, lower edge of the latch body holding the engaged collet fingers in place; the latch dogs engaged with apertures in the collet finger ring; the top ring fixed to latch body with radially oriented top ring shear pins; the main hydraulic cylinder piston and the attached latch device kept in a first, retracted position; and the counter hold dogs in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing the tool and connected equipment to be installed onto a X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and radially displacing the counter hold dogs to engage an external locking profile of the X-mas tree body;c) stroking the cylinder piston from its first retracted end position to an extended position, whereby: the latch device is axially displaced until the equipment to be installed is fully landed in the X-mas tree; and the force applied on the latch body will cause the top ring shear pins between the top ring and the latch body to break, allowing theP31793NO01 Description and claims latch body and the connected collet finger ring to be axially displaced, together with the connected lock sleeve, thus locking the equipment to be installed into the X-mas tree;d) radially retracting the latch dogs from engagement with the collet finger ring and the apertures by actuation of the associated latch dog actuation pistons, thus allowing axial retraction of the latch body inside the collet finger ring, which is engaged with the lock sleeve;e) returning the main cylinder piston from its second end position, pulling the latch body with it, whereby: the narrow, lower edge of the latch body is first pulled out of its wedged engagement between the engaged collet fingers and the outside rim of the push ring; collet fingers deflect as they are pulled out of engagement with the lock sleeve; and the released latch device body is finally be lifted clear of the installed, locked equipment;f) returning the counter hold dogs to their first, unlatched position, before ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool is retrieved to a surface.In a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for installation of equipment such as an ITC or a BP into an XT in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention, where the latch dogs of the latch device will directly engage and operate a lock sleeve. The method comprises the following steps in an example based on installation of an ITC:a) At the surface, an ITC is attached to a tool latch body, with latch dogs engaged with an internal locking groove of the ITC lock sleeve, thus keeping the ITC securely attached to the tool. Shear pins are installed through the top, outer ridge of the latch body, into the top ring, thus keeping the latch body and the connected ITC locking sleeve in a retracted position during deployment. The main cylinder piston with the latch body is positioned in its first, retracted end position. The counter hold dogs are kept in a first, retracted and unlatched position.b) The ITC, attached to the bottom end of the tool, is launched into the sea and is guided and landed onto the top of an XT. ROV hydraulics are connected to the tool, and the counter hold dogs are mechanically or hydraulically actuated to a second position, causing radial engagement with the external locking profile of the XT body. c) The main cylinder piston is stroked from its first, retracted end position, and the latch device is axially displaced until the ITC is fully landed in the XT, and;P31793NO01 Description and claims the main cylinder piston stroke is continued towards its second end position, whereby the force applied on the latch body will cause the shear pins between the top ring and the latch body to break, allowing the latch body to be axially displaced together with the ITC lock sleeve, thus facilitating locking of the ITC into the XT. d) The latch dogs are then radially retracted from their engagement with the ITC lock sleeve by hydraulic actuation of the associated latch dog pistons.e) The cylinder piston is then returned from its second, extended end position to its first, retracted end position, thus lifting the latch body clear of the ITC.f) Finally, the counter hold dogs are mechanically or hydraulically returned to their first, unlatched position. ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool is retrieved to the surface as a wire operation from a well intervention vessel, as per applicable operational procedures.In one embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for X-mas tree equipment installation in open water, with a tool according to the first aspect of the invention. In this embodiment, the tool may include the second embodiment of the latch device. The method comprises the following steps:a) launching the tool into a sea, with: equipment to be installed attached to the latch device, with the latch dogs directly engaged with the lock sleeve; the top ring fixed to the latch body with a plurality of radially oriented top ring shear pins; the main hydraulic cylinder piston with the attached latch device in a first, retracted position; the counter hold dogs in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing the tool with connected equipment to be installed onto a X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and actuating the counter hold dogs to engage an external locking profile of the X-mas tree body;c) stroking the cylinder piston from its first, retracted position towards a second end position, whereby: the latch device is axially displaced until the equipment to be installed is fully landed in the X-mas tree; and the force applied on the latch body will cause the top ring shear pins between the top ring and the latch body to break, allowing the latch body and the connected lock sleeve to be axially displaced, thus locking the equipment to be installed into the X-mas tree;d) radially retracting the latch dogs from engagement with the lock sleeve;P31793NO01 Description and claims e) returning the cylinder piston from its second end position, lifting the latch device clear of the installed and locked equipment;f) returning the counter hold dogs to their first position, thus unlatching the tool before ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool is retrieved to a surface.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSIn the following, a device, and a method for TH or ITC open water retrieval from a wellhead or XT, alternatively installation of an ITC into an XT is described, wherein:Fig. 1A-B show a cross-vendor configurable tool, according to the invention, where;fig.1A shows a tool configured with a first embodiment of a latch device that includes collet fingers to interface and operate a well equipment locking sleeve of a first make of subsea well equipment, (TH, ITC, BP), and;fig.1B shows a tool with a second embodiment of a latch device, with latch dogs that directly engage a well equipment locking sleeve of a second make of subsea well equipment.Fig. 2A-B show an external 3-D image, and a cut-out image, of a first embodiment of a latch device, (with collet finger ring), for TH or ITC/BP operations. Fig. 3A-B show an external 3-D image, and a cut-out image, of a second embodiment of a latch device for TH or ITC/BP operations.Fig. 4A-B show a first embodiment of a connector block with a counter hold dog, mechanically actuated into an extended and a retracted position, respectively. Fig. 5A-B show a second embodiment of a connector block with a counter hold dog hydraulically actuated into a retracted and an extended position, respectively. Fig. 6A-C show cross-section views of a tool with a first embodiment of a latch device during latch onto the lock sleeve of an ITC, prior to retrieval. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of tool and ITC for each operation step shown.Fig. 6D-E show cross-section views of the further operational steps during release and preparation for retrieval of the ITC. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of the tool and ITC.Fig. 7A-C show cross-section views of a tool with a first embodiment of a latch device during latch onto the lock sleeve of a TH, prior to retrieval.Fig. 7D-E show cross-section views of the further operational steps during release and preparation for retrieval of the TH.P31793NO01 Description and claims Fig. 8A-D show cross-section views of a tool with a first embodiment of a latch device during setting of an ITC into an HXT. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of tool and ITC.Fig. 8E shows the further operational step to release and prepare retrieval of the tool after the ITC has been installed. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of tool and ITC.Fig. 9A-C show cross-section views of a tool with a second embodiment of a latch device during latch onto the lock sleeve of an ITC, prior to retrieval. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of tool and ITC for each operation step shown.Fig. 9D-E show cross-section views of the further operational steps during release and preparation for retrieval of the ITC. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of the tool and ITC.Fig. 10A-C show cross-section views of a tool with a second embodiment of a latch device during latch onto the lock sleeve of a TH, prior to retrieval.Fig. 10D-E show cross-section views of the further operational steps during release and preparation for retrieval of the TH.Fig. 11A-D show cross-section views of a tool with a second embodiment of a latch device during setting of an ITC into an HXT. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of tool and ITC.Fig. 11E shows a cross-section view of the further operational step to release and prepare retrieval of the tool when the ITC has been installed. A detail view of the latch body is included below the corresponding image of tool and ITC.Any positional indications refer to the position shown in the figures.In the figures, the same or corresponding elements are indicated by the same reference numerals. For clarity reasons, some elements may in some of the figures be without reference numerals.A person skilled in the art will understand that the figures are just principal drawings. The relative proportions of individual elements may also be distorted. Any positional indications, such as for example upper and lower, refer to the position shown in the figures.P31793NO01 Description and claims DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe tool is configurable across different vendor make interfaces. The figures 1A-B show in 3-D a subsea tool 1’/1’’, designed to be run on wire in open water from a well intervention vessel, where;- figure 1A shows a tool 1’, where a first embodiment of a latch device 2’ is fitted with a collet finger ring 3, (shown in fig.2A/2B), with a plurality of radially oriented collet finger segments 3’ for interface with, and operation of an ITC 4’ lock sleeve 5’ or a TH 6’ lock sleeve 7’, (shown in the figures 6A and 7A, respectively), and;- figure 1B shows a tool 1’’, where with a second embodiment of a latch device, 2’’ with a plurality of radially oriented latch dogs 8, (shown in fig.3A/3B), will be used for direct interface with and operation of an ITC 4’’ lock sleeve 5’’ or a TH 6’’ lock sleeve 7’’, (shown in the figures 9A and 10A, respectively).The figures 6A-E show an example of operational steps with cross-section views of a tool 1’ with first embodiment of a latch device 2’ during retrieval of an ITC 4’ from the top of a HXT (not shown). The figures 7A-E show another example of a tool 1’ with a first embodiment of a latch device 2’ during retrieval of a TH 6’ from an HXT. The retrieval operations shown in the figures 6A-E and 7A-E for ITC and TH, respectively, are similar, but the length of the hydraulic cylinder 9 must accommodate the necessary piston stroke for the latch device 2’ during a TH 6’ retrieval. TH retrieval from a subsea WH is not shown but will be similar as for an HXT.Reference is again made to the figures 1A/1B. The following description applies to the features included in the tool 1’/1’’, with the exception of the latch device 2’/2’’. The tool is fitted with a lifting/handling lug/eye 10 for wire operation in open water. The tool 1’/1’’ includes a guide skirt 11, configured for entry onto a given WH/XT (not shown), and handlebars 12 for ROV guiding of the tool. The tool 1’/1’’ is also fitted with a hydraulic ROV panel 13, typically containing directional valves for hydraulic actuation; - a 3-way hydraulic circuit selector valve, pressure gauges, and an ROV gripper bar. The tool 1’/1’’ also includes an ROV stab receptacle 14’, for hydraulic supply and return, and a stab parking receptacle 14’’. The ROV panel 13 is integrated with an open tool cage structure 16. Reference is now made to figures 1A/1B, 4A/4B and 5A/5B. A plurality of connector blocks 17’/17’’ are included in the tool 1’/1’’ for the engagement of counter hold dogs 18’/18’’ towards an external locking profile (not shown), at the top of a WH or an XT body, where;- the figures 4A-B show cross section views of a first example of a connector block 17’P31793NO01 Description and claims with a first embodiment of a counter hold dog 18’, mechanically actuated via an ROV handle into an extended and a retracted/unlatched position, respectively, and;- the figures 5A-B show cross section views of a second example of a connector block 17’’ with a counter hold dog 18’’ shown in a first, retracted/-unlatched position in figure 5A and in a second, extended/-latched position in figure 5B. A mechanical push/pull device 20 is mounted at the end of the piston rod of a hydraulic cylinder 21. The push/pull device 20 is connected to the rear end of its respective counter hold dog 18’’ and transfers the hydraulic piston displacement into radial displacement of the counter hold dog 18’’, relative to a locking profile of the XT/WH, (not shown). The directional displacement transfer is effectuated via a pin 22, which slides along a guide groove 23 in the push/pull device 20.The tool 1’/1’’ will be configured for connection to and operation of different makes of subsea well equipment, where;- figures 2A-B show a first embodiment of a latch device 2’, with a collet finger ring 3 with apertures 24 for engagement of hydraulically actuated latch dogs 26. The collet fingers 3’ will engage with an ITC/TH lock sleeve 5’/7’, shown for example in figures 6A/7A, and;- figures 3A-B show a second embodiment of a latch device 2’’, where a set of latch dogs 8 are hydraulically actuated to directly engage with an ITC/TH lock sleeve 5’’/7’’, shown for example in figures 9A and 10A, respectively.With reference to the figures 6A-E and 7A-E and a first embodiment of a latch device 2’ shown in detail in fig.2A-B, its role during a retrieval operation for an ITC and TH, respectively, is described below:A first embodiment of a latch device 2’ includes a collet finger ring 3, which during the initial steps of a retrieval operation, will be fixed to a latch body 27’ with a plurality of radially oriented shear pins 28, (shown in fig.2A). A top ring 29’ is fixed to the latch body 27’ with a plurality of radially oriented shear pins 30’. The shear pins 28 and 30’ will hold the respective parts together during the tool 1’ deployment. A push ring 31’ is connected to the top ring 29’ via a plurality of push rods 32’, visible for example in fig.6A-6B. The push rods 32’ pass through individual, axial bores through the latch body 27’.Reference is now made to the figures 6A-6C and 7A-7C that illustrate operational steps during latch onto a lock sleeve 5’ for ITC and 7’ for TH retrieval, respectively. When the tool 1’ has been landed and counter hold dogs, 18’/18’’ have been engaged with a WH or XT locking profile (not shown), the piston of the hydraulic cylinder 9 will be in its first,P31793NO01 Description and claims retracted position, with clearance of the latch device 2’ above the ITC 4’ or TH 6’, as shown in the figures 6A and 7A.As shown in the figures 6B and 7B, the main cylinder 9 piston has now been stroked to an intermediate, extended position, whereby the collet fingers 3’ have now sprung into engagement with an inner groove of the ITC/TH lock sleeve 5’/7’. Note that a TH 6’ retrieval is done in a similar manner as for the ITC 4’ retrieval, but with a longer stroke with the cylinder 9 piston, as illustrated in the figures 7A-C.The piston of the hydraulic cylinder 9 is operated to push the latch body 27’ down, while the push ring 31’ and the collet finger ring 3 now rest against the equipment to be recovered. Reference is again made to the detail images of the latch device 2’ in figures 2A-2B. The latch body 27’ will be axially displaced with the piston of the hydraulic cylinder 9 and as the latch body 27’ starts to slide inside the stationary collet finger ring 3, the shear pins 28 between the collet finger ring 3 and the latch body 27’ will be broken, together with the shear pins 30’ between the top ring 29’ and the latch body 27’. As can be seen in the figures 2B and 6B-6C, guide pins 33 are radially oriented through the collet finger ring 3 and are arranged to slide along the guide grooves 34 in the guide ring 35 during the axial displacement of the latch body 27’ towards the stationary push ring 31’ that rests on top of the ITC 4’ or TH 6’. The latch body 27’ will slide along the push rods 32’ during the axial displacement inside the collet finger ring 3.Figures 6C and 7C shows that the main cylinder 9 piston stroke has now reached its second, fully extended position. Details of the latch device 2’ are shown in fig.6C, and are also representative for what is shown in smaller scale for the TH retrieval in fig.7C. A narrow edge 36 at the lower end of the latch body 27’ is now wedged between the collet fingers 3’ that are engaged with the internal locking groove of the ITC 4’ lock sleeve 5’ and the outside rim of the push ring 31’ and thus prevent the collet fingers 3’ from slipping out of engagement with the lock sleeve 5’ during retrieval.As shown in the detail view of the latch device 2’ in fig.6C, a plurality of radially oriented latch dogs 26 have been actuated into latched engagement with the now corresponding apertures 24 in the collet finger ring 3. The latch body 27’ is now firmly connected to the collet finger ring 3. Reference is again made to fig.2A-2B. The radial displacement of the latch dogs 26 is powered by axially oriented hydraulic pistons 37’, arranged inside respective piston cavities 38’ in the latch body 27’. The piston cavities 38’ are fitted with sealing plugs, 39’. Mechanical push/pull interfaces (not shown) are incorporated at the rear end of the latch dogs 26 and transfer hydraulic piston 37’ axial displacement into radial displacement of the latch dogs 26. This is effectuated via a latch dog interface pin 40’ which slides along a guide groove 41’ in the piston 37’.P31793NO01 Description and claims Reference is now made to figures 6D-6E which shows that the latch body 27’ with connected collet finger ring 3 and the attached ITC 4’ lock sleeve 5’ are pulled up by the main cylinder 9 piston. In figure 6D, the ITC 4’ is shown as just released. In fig.6E, the piston of the cylinder 9 has completed the up stroke into its first, fully retracted position. The ITC 4’ is thus lifted clear from its former engagement inside the top of the XT body. A similar release operation of a TH is shown in fig.7D-7E.Counter hold dogs 18’/18’’ will subsequently be released from engagement with the XT locking profile, and the tool 1’/1’’ and the released ITC 4’ or TH 6’ will be hoisted to the surface.With reference to the figures 3A-B, 9A-E and 10A-E, a second embodiment of a latch device 2’’, shown in detail in fig.3A-B, its role during a retrieval operation for an ITC and TH, respectively, is described below:A second embodiment of a latch device 2’’ includes a top ring 29’’. Although the top ring 29’’ is prepared to be fixed to the top ridge of the latch body 27’’ with a plurality of radially oriented shear pins 30’’, the shear pins will not be installed for a retrieval operation. A push ring 31’’ is connected to the top ring 29’’ via a plurality of push rods 32’’. The push rods 32’’ pass through individual, axial bores through the latch body 27’’.Reference is now made to the figures 9A-9C and 10A-10C that illustrate operational steps during latch onto a lock sleeve 5’’ for ITC and 7’’ for TH retrieval, respectively. When the tool 1’’ has been landed and counter hold dogs, 18’/18’’ have been engaged with a WH or XT locking profile (not shown), the piston of the hydraulic cylinder 9 will be in its first, retracted position, with clearance of the latch device 2’’ above the ITC 4’’ or TH 6’’, as shown in the figures 9A and 10A.As shown in the figures 9B and 10B, for ITC and TH retrieval, respectively, the main cylinder 9 piston has now been stroked from its first, retracted end position, to a second, extended position, whereby the push ring 31’’ now rests on top of the ITC 4’’ or TH 6’’ to be recovered. A plurality of radially oriented latch dogs 8 are now lined-up with the ITC 4’’ lock sleeve 5’’ or the TH 6’’ lock sleeve 7’’, respectively.Figure 9C, with a detail image of the latch device 2’’, shows that latch dogs 8 have now been radially extended to engage an inner locking groove of an ITC lock sleeve 5’’. Figure 10C shows a similar operation step where the latch dogs 8 have been radially extended to engage an inner locking groove of a TH lock sleeve 7’’.P31793NO01 Description and claims Reference is again made to the detail images of the latch device 2’’ in the figures 3A-3B. Radial displacement of the latch dogs 8 is powered by axially oriented hydraulic pistons 37’’, arranged inside the respective piston cavities 38’’ in the latch body 27’’. The piston cavities 38’’ are fitted with sealing plugs, 39’’. Mechanical push/pull interfaces (not shown) are established at the rear end of the latch dogs 8 and transfer hydraulic piston 37’’ displacement into radial displacement of the latch dogs 8. This is effectuated via a latch dog interface pin 40’’ which slides along a guide groove 41’’ in the piston 37’’. Reference is now made to the figures 9D and 10D, which show for the ITC 4’’ and the TH 6’’, respectively that the latch body 2’’ and the attached ITC lock sleeve 5’’ and TH lock sleeve 7’’ is pulled up by the main cylinder 9 piston to release the ITC 4’’ and TH 6’’. In the figures 9E and 10E, the piston of the cylinder 9 has completed the up stroke into its first, fully retracted position. The released ITC 4’’ and the TH 6’’ are thus lifted clear from their former engagement.Counter hold dogs 18’/18’’ will subsequently be released from engagement with the locking profile, (not shown), and the tool 1’’ and the released ITC 4’’ or TH 6’’ will be hoisted to the surface.The figures 8A-D show an example with the main steps of an ITC 4’ installation into an XT top with a tool 1’, fitted with a first embodiment of a latch device 2’, depicted in the figures 2A-B.Figure 8A shows the ITC 4’ latched onto the latch device 2’ and the tool 1’ in the process of being landed on top of the XT. The latch device 2’ has a collet finger ring 3 with collet fingers 3’ engaged with an internal locking groove of an ITC 4’ lock sleeve 5’. A narrow edge 36 at the lower end of the latch body 27’ holds the engaged collet fingers 3’ in place, thus keeping the ITC 4’ securely latched to the tool 1’. The latch dogs 26 have been radially extended to engage corresponding apertures 24 in the collet finger ring 3, thus keeping the latch body 27’ joined with the collet finger ring 3. Shear pins 30’ are installed through the top ring 29’, into the top of the latch body 27’. The latch body 27’ and the collet finger ring 3 with the connected ITC lock sleeve 5’ are thus kept retracted during the tool 1’ and ITC 4’ deployment. The cylinder 9 piston is positioned in its first, retracted end position.The tool 1’ is installed and latched onto the XT, as explained for a retrieval operation. Figure 8B shows that the main cylinder 9 piston has been stroked from its first, retracted end position into an intermediate position, so that the ITC 4’ is landed in the XT top.P31793NO01 Description and claims Figure 8C shows that the main cylinder 9 piston is further extended, whereby the piston force has sheared the top ring 29’ shear pins 30’, The latch body 27’ with the connected collet finger ring 3 and the ITC lock sleeve 5’ has been axially displaced.Figure 8D shows that the cylinder 9 piston has now reached its full extension, with the ITC lock sleeve 5’ bottomed out in its end position, whereby the ITC locking dogs 42’ have been radially engaged, so that the ITC 4’ is now locked in the XT top.Figure 8E shows that the cylinder 9 piston has been returned to its first, retracted position, whereby the latch device 2’ has been unlatched from the installed ITC 4’. To unlatch the latch device 2’, the latch dogs 26 must first be radially retracted from their engagement with the collet finger ring 3 apertures 24. This allows the latch body 27’ to be axially retracted inside the collet finger ring 3, which is still connected to the ITC lock sleeve 5’. The cylinder 9 piston is then returned from its second end position, thus pulling the latch body 27’ with it, whereby the narrow edge 36’ at the lower end of the latch body 27’ will first be pulled out of its wedged engagement between the engaged collet fingers 3’ and the outside rim of the push ring 31’. During the further up-stroke, the collet fingers 3’ are now free to deflect, and will be pulled out of engagement with the inner locking groove of the ITC lock sleeve 5’. The final cylinder 9 piston stroke towards its first, retracted end position will lift the latch device 2’ with the now released collet finger ring 3 clear from the locked ITC 4’.The tool 1’ is then unlatched from the XT top, as explained for a retrieval operation.A second embodiment of a latch device 2’’, where latch dogs 8 will directly engage and operate a lock sleeve is shown in the figures 3A-B. The figures 11A-E illustrate the role of the latch device 2’’ during an ITC 4’’ installation operation.Figure 11A shows the ITC 4’’ latched onto the latch device 2’’ and the tool 1’’ as it is in the process of being landed on top of the XT. Latch dogs 8 are radially extended, engaging an inner locking groove in the ITC lock sleeve 5’’. As shown in more detail in fig.3B, shear pins 30’’ are installed through the top ridge of the latch body 27’’, into the top ring 29’’, thus holding the parts together during the deployment.Figure 11B shows the tool 1’’ fully landed on top of the XT top.Figure 11C shows the cylinder 9 piston in an intermediate stroke, to land the ITC 4’’ in the XT.Figure 11D shows that the cylinder 9 piston has been stroked to its second, extended position and has axially displaced the latch body 27’’ with the ITC lock sleeve 5’’, which is now bottomed out in its end position, where it has radially engaged the ITC lockingP31793NO01 Description and claims dogs 42’’, thereby locking the ITC 4’’ in the XT top. At the start of the final downstroke of the latch body 27’’ against the push ring 31’’, the piston force has sheared the top ring 29’’ shear pins 30’’.Figure 11E shows that the latch dogs 8 have been radially retracted from their engagement with the inner locking groove in the TH lock sleeve 7’’. This has allowed the latch device 2’’ to be lifted clear from the locked ITC 4’’ as the cylinder 9 piston is returned to its first, retracted end position. The tool 1’’ is then unlatched from the XT, as explained for a retrieval operation.Necessary seals are not described but are known to a skilled person.P31793NO01 Description and claims
Claims
P a t e n t c l a i m s1. A tool (1’, 1’’) for open water operation, such as retrieval of a tubing hanger (6’, 6’’) from a subsea wellhead, or a X-mas tree, and retrieval or installation of equipment, such as an internal tree cap (4’, 4’’) for a subsea X-mas tree, or a bore protector, wherein the tool (1’, 1’’) comprises:- a main hydraulic cylinder (9) with a piston;- a tool structure (16);- a hydraulic ROV panel (13);- a guide skirt (11), for entry onto a wellhead or X-mas tree;- a plurality of counter hold dogs (18’, 18’’) to engage with a wellhead or x-mas tree;and- an axially displaceable latch device (2’, 2’’) attached to the piston, wherein the axially displaceable latch device (2’, 2’’) is interchangeable and removably attached to the piston.2. A tool (1’, 1’’) according to claim 1, wherein the tool (1’, 1’’) further comprises at least one of the following means (10) for handling of the tool (1’, 1’’): a lug, and/or an eye.3. A tool (1’, 1’’) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the counter hold dogs (18’, 18’’) are activated via at least one of the following means: mechanically through an ROV handle, and hydraulically by a hydraulic cylinder (21) via a push/pull device (20).4. A tool (1’, 1’’) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the latch device (2’, 2’’) comprises;- an axially displaceable latch body (27’, 27’’) comprising:- a plurality of latch dog actuation pistons (37’, 37’’) in the latch body, and - a plurality of radially oriented latch dogs (26, 8);- a plurality of radially oriented top ring shear pins (30’);- a top ring (29, 29’’);- a push ring (31’, 31’’); and- a plurality of push rods (32’, 32’’) that connect the top ring (29’, 29’’) and the push ring (31’, 31’’) via associated bores in the latch body (27’, 27’’).5. A tool (1’, 1’’) according to claim 4, wherein the latch body (27’, 27’’) further comprises at least one guide groove (41, 41’’) for a latch dog interface pin (40’, 40’’);P31793NO01 Description and claims6. A tool (1’, 1’’) according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the latch body (27’, 27’’) further comprises a plurality of sealing plugs (39’, 39’’) for latch dog piston cavities (38’, 38’’).7. A tool (1’, 1’’) according to any of claims 4 to 6, wherein the plurality of radially oriented latch dogs (26’, 8) feature a push/pull interface to their actuation piston (37’, 37’’), including a latch dog interface pin (40’, 40’’);8. A tool (1’) according to any of claims 4 to 7, wherein the latch device (2’) further comprises:- a guide ring (35);- a collet finger ring (3) with collet fingers (3’);- a plurality of radially oriented collet finger shear pins (28);- a plurality of radially oriented guide pins (33).9. Method for wellhead or X-mas tree equipment retrieval in open water with a tool (1’) according to claim 8, wherein the method comprises the following steps:a) launching the tool (1’) into a sea, with:- the cylinder piston and attached latch device (2’) in a first, retracted position;- the latch dogs (26) retracted inside the latch body (27’);- the top ring (29’) fixed to the latch body (27’) with the plurality of top ring shear pins (30’);- the collet finger ring (3) connected to the latch body (27’) with the plurality of collet finger shear pins (28); and- the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing of the tool (1’) onto a wellhead or X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and actuating the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) to engage an external locking profile of a wellhead or X-mas tree body;c) stroking the hydraulic cylinder piston from its first, retracted end position, to an intermediate, extended position, whereby;- the latch device (2’) is axially displaced;- the collet finger ring (3) with collet fingers (3’) is pushed into the equipment to be retrieved;- the push ring (31’) lands on top of the equipment to be retrieved;P31793NO01 Description and claims- collet fingers (3’) spring into engagement with an internal, encircling locking groove of a lock sleeve (5’, 7’) of the equipment to be retrieved;d) the applied force breaking the collet finger shear pins (28) and the top ring shear pins (30’) as the main hydraulic cylinder piston stroke is continued, whereupon;- the latch body (27’) is axially displaced inside the collet finger ring (3), along the push rods (32’);- guide pins (33) in the collet finger ring (3) slide along corresponding, vertical grooves (34) in the guide ring (35), until;- a narrow edge (36) at the lower end of the latch body (27’) is wedged between engaged collet fingers (3’) and the outside rim of the push ring (31’);e) hydraulically actuating the latch dogs (26) into radial engagement with the aligned collet finger ring (3) apertures (24), thus joining the latch body (27’) with the collet finger ring (3);f) returning the cylinder piston from its second, extended end position, hoisting the latch body (27’), while pulling at the lock sleeve (5’,7’) of the equipment (4’,6’) to be retrieved, thereby;- disengaging locking dogs (42’);- lifting the equipment to be retrieved clear from its former engagement;g) returning the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) to their first position, thus unlatching the tool (1’) before ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool (1’) and connected equipment is retrieved to a surface.10. Method for wellhead or X-mas tree equipment retrieval in open water, with a tool (1’’) according to any of claims 4 to 7, wherein the method comprises the following steps:a) launching the tool (1’’) into a sea, with;- the cylinder piston and attached latch device (2’’) in a first, retracted position; - the latch dogs (8) retracted inside the latch body (27’’);- the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing the tool (1’’) onto a wellhead or X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and actuating the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) to engage an external locking profile of a wellhead or X-mas tree body;P31793NO01 Description and claimsc) stroking the hydraulic cylinder piston from its first, retracted end position, towards a second, extended position, whereby;- the latch device (2’’) is axially displaced;- the push ring (31’’) lands on the equipment to be retrieved;- the latch body (27’’) is displaced further, along push rods (32’’) which pass through axial bores in the latch body, until the latch body (27’’) is fully inserted into the equipment to be retrieved; and- latch dogs (8) are aligned with an internal, encircling locking groove at the top of a lock sleeve (5’’,7’’);d) actuating the latch dogs (8) into radial engagement with the lock sleeve (5’’,7’’) locking groove;e) returning the cylinder piston from its second, extended end position, thus pulling the latch body (27’’) and the attached lock sleeve (5’’,7’’) with it, releasing the equipment to be retrieved;f) continuing the hydraulic cylinder piston stroke until it reaches its first, retracted end position, thus lifting the equipment to be retrieved clear from its engagement inside the wellhead or X-mas tree; andg) returning the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) to their first, unlatched position, and retrieving the tool (1’’) and the connected equipment to a surface.11. Method for X-mas tree equipment installation in open water, with a tool (1’) according to claim 8, wherein the method comprises the following steps:a) launching of the tool (1’) into a sea, with;- equipment to be installed attached to the latch device (2’), with a collet finger ring (3) engaged via collet fingers (3’) with an internal locking groove of a lock sleeve (5’);- the narrow, lower edge (36) of the latch body (27’) holding the engaged collet fingers (3’) in place;- the latch dogs (26) engaged with apertures (24) in the collet finger ring (3);- the top ring (29’) fixed to latch body (27’) with radially oriented top ring shear pins (30’);- the main hydraulic cylinder piston and the attached latch device (2’) kept in a first, retracted position;P31793NO01 Description and claims- the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing the tool (1’) and connected equipment to be installed onto a X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and radially displacing the counter hold dogs (18’,18’’) to engage an external locking profile of the X-mas tree body;c) stroking the cylinder piston from its first retracted end position to an extended position, whereby;- the latch device (2’) is axially displaced until the equipment to be installed is fully landed in the X-mas tree, and;- the force applied on the latch body (27’) will cause the top ring shear pins (30’) between the top ring (29’) and the latch body (27’) to break, allowing the latch body (27’) and the connected collet finger ring (3) to be axially displaced, together with the connected lock sleeve (5’), thus locking the equipment to be installed into the X-mas tree;d) radially retracting the latch dogs (26) from engagement with the collet finger ring (3) and the apertures (24) by actuation of the associated latch dog actuation pistons (37’), thus allowing axial retraction of the latch body (27’) inside the collet finger ring (3), which is engaged with the lock sleeve (5’);e) returning the main cylinder piston from its second end position, pulling the latch body (27’) with it, whereby;- the narrow, lower edge (36) of the latch body (27’) is first pulled out of its wedged engagement between the engaged collet fingers (3’) and the outside rim of the push ring (31’), and;- collet fingers (3’) deflect as they are pulled out of engagement with the lock sleeve (5’), and;- the released latch device body (27’) is finally be lifted clear of the installed, locked equipment (4’);f) returning the counter hold dogs (18’, 18’’) to their first, unlatched position, before ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool (1’) is retrieved to a surface.12. Method for X-mas tree equipment installation in open water, with a tool (1’’) according to any of claims 4 to 7, characterised in that the method comprises the following steps:P31793NO01 Description and claimsa) launching the tool (1’’) into a sea, with;- equipment to be installed attached to the latch device (2’’), with the latch dogs (8) directly engaged with the lock sleeve (5’’);- the top ring (29’’) fixed to the latch body (27’’) with a plurality of radially oriented top ring shear pins (30’’)- the main hydraulic cylinder piston with the attached latch device (2’’) in a first, retracted position;- the counter hold dogs (18’, 18’’) in a first, unlatched position;b) guiding and landing the tool (1’’) with connected equipment to be installed onto a X-mas tree, connecting ROV hydraulics, and actuating the counter hold dogs (18’, 18’’) to engage an external locking profile of the X-mas tree body;c) stroking the cylinder piston from its first, retracted position towards a second end position, whereby;- the latch device (2’’) is axially displaced until the equipment to be installed is fully landed in the X-mas tree, and;- the force applied on the latch body (27’’) will cause the top ring shear pins (30’’) between the top ring (29’’) and the latch body (27’’) to break, allowing the latch body (27’’) and the connected lock sleeve (5’’) to be axially displaced, thus locking the equipment to be installed into the X-mas tree;d) radially retracting the latch dogs (8) from engagement with the lock sleeve (5’’);e) returning the cylinder piston from its second end position, lifting the latch device (2’’) clear of the installed and locked equipment;f) returning the counter hold dogs (18’, 18’’) to their first position, thus unlatching the tool (1’’) before ROV hydraulics are disconnected, and the tool (1’’) is retrieved to a surface.P31793NO01 Description and claims
Drawings

Priority

12.03.2025 NO 20250270

Patent classes

IPC classesE21B 33/035E21B 33/043E21B 41/04E21B 23/04CPC classesE21B 33/035E21B 33/043E21B 41/04E21B 23/04

Citations

US 2023/0193710 A1 (A1)US 2004/0238175 A1 (A1)GB 2487006 A (A)NO 20240282 A1 (A1)

Applicants, owners and inventors

Applicants
CCB SUBSEA AS
Postboks 91 5346 ÅGOTNES NO (ØYGARDEN Municipality, Vestland county)Org. number: 914061512Inventors
Bjarte Bjørkeli
Angeltveitvegen 21D 5363 ÅGOTNES NO (ØYGARDEN Municipality, Vestland county)

Agent

HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS

Org. number: 918752900

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Postboks 9 4068 STAVANGER NO (STAVANGER Municipality, Rogaland county)
Org. number: 918752900
Reference: P31793NO01

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