CA3009580A1

CA3009580A1 - Expanding and collapsing apparatus and methods of use

Info

Publication number: CA3009580A1
Application number: CA3009580A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Gareth Edward George Brown
Original assignee: Peak Well Systems Pty Ltd; Peak Well Systems Ltd
Current assignee: Schlumberger Canada Ltd
Priority date: 2015-12-23
Filing date: 2016-12-23
Publication date: 2017-06-29
Also published as: GB2545817B; WO2017109509A1; US20190352988A1; AU2016376007A1; GB2545817A; AU2016376007B2; EP3394386A1; GB201622150D0

Abstract

The invention provides an expanding and collapsing ring apparatus (171) and method of use. The expanding and collapsing ring comprises a plurality of elements (177) assembled together to form a ring structure (172, 173a, 173b) oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis. The ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and a first expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements on actuation by an axial force. The apparatus further comprises a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism operable to move the ring structure between its collapsed condition or its first expanded conditions to a second expanded condition on actuation by an axial force. Applications of the invention include oilfield devices, including anti-extrusion rings, plugs, packers, locks, patching tools, connection systems, and variable diameter tools run in a wellbore.

Description

1 Expanding and Collapsing Apparatus and Methods of Use

2

3 The present invention relates to an expanding and collapsing apparatus and methods of

4 use, and in particular aspects, to an expanding apparatus in the form of a ring, operable to move between a collapsed condition and an expanded condition. The invention also 6 relates to tools and devices incorporating the expansion apparatus and methods of use.
7 Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to oilfield apparatus (including but not 8 limited to downhole apparatus and wellhead apparatus) incorporating the apparatus and 9 methods of use.
11 Background to the invention 13 In many fields of mechanical engineering, and in the field of hydrocarbon exploration and 14 production in particular, it is known to provide expansion mechanisms for the physical 1 interaction of tubular components. Expansion mechanisms may expand outwardly to 2 engage an external surface, or may collapse inwardly to engage an internal surface.

4 Applications are many and varied, but those in hydrocarbon exploration and production include the actuation and setting of flow barriers and seal elements such as plugs and 6 packers, anchoring and positioning tools such as wellbore anchors, casing and liner 7 hangers, and locking mechanisms for setting equipment downhole. Other applications 8 include providing mechanical support or back up for elements such as elastomers or 9 inflatable bladders.
11 A typical anti-extrusion ring is positioned between a packer or seal element and its 12 actuating slip members, and is formed from a split or segmented metallic ring. During 13 deployment of the packer or seal element, the segments move to a radially expanded 14 condition. During expansion and at the radially expanded condition, spaces are formed between the segments, as they are required to occupy a larger annular volume.
These 16 spaces create extrusion gaps, which may result in failure of the packer or seal under 17 working conditions.

19 Various configurations have been proposed to minimise the effect of spaces between anti-extrusion segments, including providing multi-layered rings, such that extrusion gaps are 21 blocked by an offset arrangement of segments. For example, US 6,598,672 describes an 22 anti-extrusion rings for a packer assembly which has first and second ring portions which 23 are circumferentially offset to create gaps in circumferentially offset locations.

US 2,701,615 discloses a well packer comprising an arrangement of crowned spring metal 26 elements which are expanded by relative movement.

28 Other proposals, for example those disclosed in US 3,572,627, US
7,921,921, 29 US 2013/0319654, US 7,290,603 and US 8,167,033 include arrangements of circumferentially lapped segments. US 3,915,424 describes a similar arrangement in a 31 drilling BOP configuration, in which overlapping anti-extrusion members are actuated by a 32 radial force to move radially and circumferentially to a collapsed position which supports 33 annular sealing elements. Such arrangements avoid introducing extrusion gaps during 34 expansion, but create a ring with uneven or stepped faces or flanks.
These configurations 1 do not provide an unbroken support wall for a sealing element, are spatially inefficient, and 2 may be difficult to reliably move back to their collapsed configurations.

4 US 8,083,001 proposes an alternative configuration in which two sets of wedge shaped segments are brought together by sliding axially with respect to one another to create an 6 expanded gauge ring.

8 In anchoring, positioning, setting, locking and connection applications, radially expanding 9 and collapsing structures are typically circumferentially distributed at discrete locations when at their increased outer diameter. This reduces the surface area available to contact 11 an auxiliary engagement surface, and therefore limits the maximum force and pressure 12 rating for a given size of device.

14 Summary of the invention 16 It is amongst the claims and objects of the invention to provide an expanding and 17 collapsing apparatus and methods of use which obviate or mitigate disadvantages of 18 previously proposed expanding and collapsing apparatus.

It is amongst the aims and objects of the invention to provide an oilfield apparatus, 21 including a downhole apparatus or a wellhead apparatus, incorporating an expanding and 22 collapsing apparatus, which obviates or mitigates disadvantages of prior art oilfield 23 apparatus.

Further aims and objects of the invention will be apparent from reading the following 26 description.

28 According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an expanding and collapsing 29 ring apparatus comprising:
a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure oriented in a plane 31 around a longitudinal axis;
32 wherein the ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and a 33 first expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements on actuation by an axial 34 force;

1 and wherein the apparatus further comprises a secondary expanding and collapsing 2 mechanism operable to move the first ring structure between its collapsed condition or its 3 first expanded condition to a second expanded condition on actuation by an axial force.

The ring structure may be a first ring structure, and the apparatus may comprise at least 6 one additional ring structure, wherein the additional ring structure is operable to move the 7 first ring structure from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition.

9 Preferably, the plurality of elements is operable to be moved relative to one another between the expanded and collapsed conditions, and more preferably, is operable to be 11 moved by sliding the elements with respect to one another in the plane of the ring 12 structure.

14 The plane of the ring structure may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ring structure, and its plane of orientation, may be operable to move on the apparatus during 16 expansion and/or collapsing. The movement of the plane may be an axial sliding 17 movement, during expanding and/or collapsing of the ring structure.

19 The apparatus may be normally collapsed, and may be actuated to be expanded.
Alternatively, the apparatus may be normally expanded, and may be actuated to be 21 collapsed.

23 The ring structure may comprise one or more ring surfaces, which may be presented to an 24 auxiliary surface, for example the surface of a tubular, when actuated to an expanded condition or a collapsed condition. The one or more ring surfaces may include a ring 26 surface which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus.
Alternatively, or in 27 addition, the one or more ring surfaces may include a surface which is perpendicular to the 28 longitudinal axis of the apparatus, and/or a surface which is inclined to the longitudinal axis 29 of the apparatus.
31 The ring surface may be an outer ring surface, and may be a substantially cylindrical 32 surface. The ring surface may be arranged to contact or otherwise interact with an inner 33 surface of a tubular or bore.

1 The ring surface may be substantially smooth. Alternatively, the ring surface may be 2 profiled, and/or may provided with one or more functional formations thereon, for 3 interacting with an auxiliary surface.

5 In the collapsed condition, the elements may be arranged generally at collapsed radial

6 positions, and may define a collapsed outer diameter and inner diameter of the ring

7 structure.

8

9 In the first expanded condition, the elements may be arranged generally at expanded radial positions, and may define a first expanded outer diameter and inner diameter of the 11 ring structure. The ring surface may be located at or on the expanded outer diameter of 12 the ring structure, or may be located at or on the collapsed inner diameter of the ring 13 structure.

The elements may be configured to move between their first expanded and collapsed 16 radial positions in a path which is tangential to a circle described around and concentric 17 with the longitudinal axis.

19 Preferably, each element of the ring structure comprises a first contact surface and second contact surface respectively in abutment with first and second adjacent elements. The 21 elements may be configured to slide relative to one another along their respective contact 22 surfaces.

24 The first contact surface and/or the second contact surface may be oriented tangentially to a circle described around and concentric with the longitudinal axis. The first contact 26 surface and the second contact surface are preferably non-parallel. The first contact 27 surface and the second contact surface may converge towards one another in a direction 28 towards an inner surface of the ring structure (and may therefore diverge away from one 29 another in a direction away from an inner surface of the ring structure).
31 At least some of the elements are preferably provided with interlocking profiles for 32 interlocking with an adjacent element. Preferably the interlocking profiles are formed in the 33 first and/or second contact surfaces. Preferably, an element is configured to interlock with 34 a contact surface of an adjacent element. Such interlocking may prevent or restrict 1 separation of assembled adjacent elements in a circumferential and/or radial direction of 2 the ring structure, while enabling relative sliding movement of adjacent elements.

4 Preferably, at least some of, and more preferably all of, the elements assembled to form a ring are identical to one another, and each comprises an interlocking profile which is 6 configured to interlock with a corresponding interlocking profile on another element. The 7 interlocking profiles may comprise at least one recess such as groove, and at least one 8 protrusion, such as a tongue or a pin, configured to be received in the groove. The 9 interlocking profiles may comprise at least one dovetail recess and dovetail protrusion.
11 The first and second contact surfaces of an element may be oriented on first and second 12 planes, which may intersect an inner surface of the ring at first and second intersection 13 lines, such that a sector of an imaginary cylinder is defined between the longitudinal axis 14 and the intersection lines. The central angle of the sector may be 45 degrees or less.
Such a configuration corresponds to eight or more elements assembled together to form 16 the ring structure.

18 Preferably, the central angle of the sector is 30 degrees or less, corresponding to twelve or 19 more elements assembled together to form the ring. More preferably, the central angle of the sector is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees, corresponding to eighteen to thirty-21 six elements assembled together to form the ring. In a particular preferred embodiment, 22 the central angle of the sector is 15 degrees, corresponding to twenty-four elements 23 assembled together to form the ring structure.

Preferably, an angle described between the first contact and second contact surfaces 26 corresponds to the central angle of the sector. Preferably therefore, an angle described 27 between the first contact and second contact surfaces is in the range of

10 degrees to 20 28 .. degrees, and in a particular preferred embodiment, the angle described between the first 29 contact and second contact surfaces is 15 degrees, corresponding to twenty-four elements assembled together to form the ring structure.

32 In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a support surface for the ring 33 structure. The support surface may be the outer surface of a mandrel or tubular. The 34 support surface may support the ring structure in a collapsed condition of the apparatus.

1 In some embodiments, the apparatus is operated in its second expanded condition, and in 2 other embodiments, the apparatus is operated in its collapsed condition.
Preferably, 3 elements forming the ring structure are mutually supportive in an operating condition of the 4 apparatus. Where the operating condition of the apparatus its expanded condition (i.e.
when the apparatus is operated in its expanded condition), the ring structure is preferably 6 a substantially solid ring structure in its second expanded condition, and the elements may 7 be fully mutually supported.

9 The apparatus may comprise a formation configured to impart a radial expanding or collapsing force component to the elements of a ring structure and/or secondary

11 expanding and collapsing mechanism from an axial actuation force. The apparatus may

12 comprise a pair of formations configured to impart a radial expanding or collapsing force

13 component to the elements of a ring structure from an axial actuation force. The formation

14 (or formations) may comprise a wedge or wedge profile, and may comprise a cone wedge or wedge profile.

17 The apparatus may comprise a biasing means, which may be configured to bias the first 18 ring structure to one of its expanded or collapsed conditions. The biasing means may 19 comprise a circumferential spring, a garter spring, or a spiral retaining ring. The biasing means may be arranged around an outer surface of a ring structure, to bias it towards a 21 collapsed condition, or may be arranged around an inner surface of a ring structure, to 22 bias it towards an expanded condition. One or more elements may comprise a formation 23 such as a groove for receiving the biasing means. Preferably, grooves in the elements 24 combine to form a circumferential groove in the ring structure. Multiple biasing means may be provided on the ring structure.

27 Preferably, the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism comprises a second ring 28 structure, and more preferably comprises a pair of second ring structures. The second 29 ring structure(s) may be operable to move the first ring structure from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition. The pair of second ring structures may 31 be disposed on opposing sides of the first ring structure. The second ring structure(s) may 32 comprise a plurality of second elements assembled together to form the second ring 33 structure oriented in a plane around the longitudinal axis.

1 The plurality of second elements may be operable to be moved relative to one another 2 between an expanded and collapsed conditions of the respective second ring structure, 3 and more preferably, is operable to be moved by sliding the second elements with respect 4 to one another in the plane of the second ring structure.
6 The second ring structures may define an outer surface, which may be inclined with 7 respect to a surface parallel to the longitudinal axis. The outer surfaces may be conical 8 wedge surfaces, which may face the first ring structure.

The apparatus may comprise at least one pair of additional ring structures, wherein the 11 pair of additional ring structures are operable to move the first ring structure from an 12 intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition. The pair of additional ring 13 structures may be disposed (axially) on either side of the first ring structure, and may act 14 together to move the ring structure from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition.

17 The plurality of elements of the additional ring structure may be operable to be moved 18 between the expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding with respect to one another in 19 the plane of the additional ring structure, in a direction tangential to a circle concentric with the additional ring structure. In other respects, the additional ring structure and its 21 elements may have features in common with the ring structure described herein.

23 The additional ring structure, and/or its elements, may be operable to transfer an axial 24 actuation force to the elements of the first ring structure. The additional ring structure, and/or its elements may comprise one or more wedge profiles, which may be conical 26 wedge profiles. The one or more wedge profiles may be defined by an outer surface of the 27 elements of the additional ring structure.

29 The apparatus may comprise a plurality of additional ring structures, which may be arranged in functional pairs, and/or which may be operable to move the first ring structure 31 from an intermediate expanded condition to a subsequent intermediate expanded 32 condition, or a fully expanded condition.

34 Preferably, each additional ring structure comprises a biasing means, which may be configured to bias the first ring structure to one of its expanded or collapsed conditions.

1 The biasing means may comprise a circumferential spring, a garter spring, or a spiral 2 retaining ring. Preferably, the biasing means of the first and additional ring structures are 3 selected to define a sequence of expanding and collapsing of the apparatus. Preferably, 4 the biasing means of the first and additional ring structures are selected to expand the centremost ring structure before an adjacent pair of additional ring structures. The biasing 6 means additional ring structures may be selected to expand a first pair of additional ring 7 structures before an adjacent pair of additional ring structures located axially outside of the 8 first pair or additional ring structures.

The biasing means may be disposed on an outer surface of a ring structure, or may be 11 disposed in a groove on the outer surface of a ring structure.

13 Alternatively, or in addition, a biasing means may be disposed in apertures in the 14 elements. The biasing means may be threaded through each element, and may then be joined to make a continuous loop upon assembly. The biasing means may be disposed in-16 board of the external surface of the elements. The biasing means may be located directly 17 over an interlocking feature such as a dovetail, and/or may be located centrally on the ring 18 structure.

Preferably, a functional pair of additional ring structures and/or the elements thereof is 21 symmetrical about a centre ring structure. Each of a functional pair of additional ring 22 structures and/or the elements thereof may be configured to move axially with respect to 23 one another on the apparatus, and may be configured to move into abutment with one 24 another. Preferably, each of a functional pair of additional ring structures and/or the elements thereof are configured to limit the travel of a corresponding additional ring 26 structures and/or the elements thereof.

28 External profiles of the elements may comprise chamfers, which may at least partially 29 define a surface of one or more flanks of an assembled ring structure.
31 An assembled ring structure may comprise at least one flank having an at least partially 32 smoothed conical surface. In use, the at least partially smoothed conical surface may 33 facilitate deployment of the apparatus, for example by improving the sliding action of an 34 adjacent ring on the flank during expansion. The flank may be a flank of a supporting ring 1 structure. The at least one flank may be an inward facing flank, or a flank facing a central 2 ring structure or a ring structure disposed between the flank and a central ring structure.

4 Alternatively, or in addition, the elements may be profiled such that the ring structures 5 define at least partially smooth conical surfaces on their outward facing flanks when in 6 their expanded condition. The at least partially smooth conical surfaces may combine in 7 the assembled, expanded apparatus, to provide a substantially or fully smooth surface of 8 flank of the expanded apparatus, which may be suitable for abutment with and/or support 9 of an adjacent element such as an elastomer.
11 The surfaces of the plurality of elements may be configured to be presented directly 12 against a surface with which it interacts, such as a borehole wall.
Alternatively, or in 13 addition, the apparatus may comprise an intermediate structure or material disposed 14 between the surfaces of the elements and a surface with which it interacts.
16 In one embodiment, the elements of the ring structure are configured to conform, deform 17 or compress in a collapsed condition to form a fluid barrier or seal with an object in the 18 throughbore. The elements may be formed, at least partially, from a compressible and/or 19 resilient material, such as an elastomer, rubber or polymer.
21 Alternatively, or in addition, the elements may be formed, at least partially, from a metal or 22 metal alloy, and may be coated or covered with a compressible and/or resilient material, 23 such as an elastomer, rubber or polymer.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an expanding and 26 collapsing ring apparatus comprising:
27 a plurality of elements assembled together to form a first ring structure oriented in a plane 28 around a longitudinal axis;
29 wherein the first ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and a first expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements on actuation by an 31 axial force;
32 and wherein the apparatus further comprises at least one pair of additional ring structures, 33 wherein the pair of additional ring structures are operable to move the first ring structure 34 from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition.

1 The additional ring structure may comprise a plurality of elements assembled together to 2 form a ring structure, and may be oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis. The 3 additional ring structure may be operable to be moved between an expanded condition 4 and a collapsed condition by movement of the plurality of elements on actuation by an axial force. The plurality of elements of the additional ring structure may be operable to be 6 moved between the expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding with respect to one 7 another in the plane of the additional ring structure, in a direction tangential to a circle 8 concentric with the additional ring structure. In other respects, the additional ring structure 9 and its elements may have features in common with the ring structure described herein.
11 Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may include one or more features of 12 the first aspect of the invention or its embodiments, or vice versa.

14 According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an oilfield tool comprising the apparatus of any of the first or second aspects of the invention.

17 The oilfield tool may be a downhole tool. Alternatively, the oilfield tool may comprise a 18 wellhead tool.

The downhole tool may comprise a downhole tool selected from the group consisting of a 21 plug, a packer, an anchor, a tubing hanger, or a downhole locking tool.

23 The plug may be a bridge plug, and may be a retrievable bridge plug.
Alternatively, the 24 plug may be a permanent plug.
26 Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the 27 first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

29 According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided variable diameter downhole tool, the tool comprising an apparatus according to a previous aspect of the invention.

32 The downhole tool may be selected from the group consisting of a wellbore centraliser, a 33 wellbore broach tool, and a wellbore drift tool.

1 Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the 2 first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

4 According to a fifth of the invention, there is provided a connector system comprising a first connector and a second connector, wherein one of the first and second connectors 6 comprises the apparatus of any of the first or second aspects of the invention.

8 Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the 9 first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.
11 According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided patch apparatus for a fluid 12 conduit or tubular, the patch apparatus comprising the apparatus of any of the first or 13 second aspects of the invention.

Embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the 16 first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

18 According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of expanding 19 an apparatus, the method comprising:
providing an apparatus comprising: a plurality of elements assembled together to form a 21 ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis; and a secondary expanding 22 and collapsing mechanism;
23 imparting an axial force to the ring structure to move the plurality of elements from a 24 collapsed condition to a first expanded condition; and imparting an axial force to the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism to move 26 the first ring structure from its first expanded condition to a second expanded condition.

28 Embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention may include one or more features of 29 the first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.
31 According to an eighth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of collapsing an 32 apparatus, the method comprising:
33 providing an apparatus comprising: a plurality of elements assembled together to form a 34 ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis; and a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism;

1 imparting an axial force to the ring structure to move the plurality of elements from a 2 collapsed condition to a first expanded condition; and 3 releasing or reducing an axial force from the secondary expanding and collapsing 4 mechanism to move the first ring structure from a second expanded condition to a first expanded condition; and 6 releasing or reducing an axial force from the ring structure to move the plurality of 7 elements, thereby moving the ring structure from the first expanded condition to a 8 collapsed condition.

Embodiments of the eighth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the 11 first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

13 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided an expanding and 14 collapsing ring apparatus comprising:
a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure oriented in a plane 16 around a longitudinal axis;
17 wherein the ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and a 18 first expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements;
19 and wherein the apparatus further comprises a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism operable to move the first ring structure between its collapsed condition or its 21 first expanded condition to a second expanded condition.

23 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided an expanding and 24 collapsing ring apparatus comprising:
a plurality of elements assembled together to form a first ring structure oriented in a plane 26 around a longitudinal axis;
27 wherein the first ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and 28 a first expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements;
29 and wherein the apparatus further comprises at least one pair of additional ring structures, wherein the pair of additional ring structures are operable to move the first ring structure 31 from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition.

33 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of expanding an 34 apparatus, the method comprising:

1 providing an apparatus comprising: a plurality of elements assembled together to form a 2 ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis; and a secondary expanding 3 and collapsing mechanism;
4 imparting a force to the ring structure to move the plurality of elements from a collapsed condition to a first expanded condition; and 6 imparting a force to the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism to move the first 7 ring structure from its first expanded condition to a second expanded condition.

9 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of collapsing an apparatus, the method comprising:
11 providing an apparatus comprising: a plurality of elements assembled together to form a 12 ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis; and a secondary expanding 13 and collapsing mechanism;
14 imparting a force to the ring structure to move the plurality of elements from a collapsed condition to a first expanded condition; and 16 releasing or reducing a force from the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism to 17 move the first ring structure from a second expanded condition to a first expanded 18 condition; and 19 releasing or reducing a force from the ring structure to move the plurality of elements, thereby moving the ring structure from the first expanded condition to a collapsed 21 condition.

23 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided fluid conduit tool 24 comprising the apparatus according to any previous aspect of the invention. The fluid conduit tool may be configured for use in pipelines or other fluid conduits, which may be 26 surface fluid conduits or subsea fluid conduits, and may be oilfield or non-oilfield fluid 27 conduits.

29 Embodiments of the further aspects of the invention may include one or more features of the first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

32 Brief description of the drawings 34 There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings, of which:

2 Figures 1A to Figure 1D are respectively perspective, first end, part sectional and second 3 end views of an apparatus useful for understanding the invention, shown in a collapsed 4 condition;

6 Figures 2A to 2D are respectively perspective, first side, part sectional and second side 7 views of the apparatus of Figures 1A to 1D, shown in an expanded condition;

9 Figures 3A and 3B are geometric representations of an element of the apparatus of 10 Figures 1A and 1D, shown from one side;

12 Figures 4A to Figure 4F are respectively first perspective, second perspective, plan, first 13 end, lower, and second end views of an element of the apparatus of Figures 1A to 1D;

15 Figures 5A to 5C are respectively perspective, sectional and end views of an apparatus

16 according to an embodiment of the invention, shown in a collapsed condition;

17

18 Figures 6A to 60 are respectively perspective, sectional and end views of the apparatus of

19 Figures 5A to 5C, shown in an expanded condition;
21 Figure 7 is a geometric representation of a centre element of the apparatus of Figures 5A
22 to 5C, shown from one side;

24 Figures 8A to 8F are respectively first perspective, second perspective, plan, first end, lower, and second end views of a centre element of the apparatus of Figures 5A
to 5C;

27 Figure 9 is a geometric representation of an outer element of the apparatus of Figures 5A
28 to 5C, shown from one side;

Figure 10A to 10H are respectively first perspective, second perspective, third perspective, 31 fourth perspective, plan, first end, lower, and second end views of an outer element of the 32 apparatus of Figures 5A to 5C;

34 Figures 11A to 11C are respectively perspective, sectional and end views of an apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, shown in a collapsed condition;

2 Figures 12A to 120 are respectively perspective, sectional and end views of the apparatus 3 of Figures 11A to 110, shown in an expanded condition;

Figures 13A and 13B are respectively perspective and sectional views of an apparatus 6 according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, shown in a collapsed condition;

8 Figures 14A to 14D are respectively perspective, first sectional, end, and second sectional 9 views of the apparatus of Figures 13A and 13B, shown in an expanded condition;
11 Figure 15 is a geometric representation of a centre element of the apparatus of Figures 12 13A and 13B, shown from one side;

14 Figures 16A to 16F are respectively first to fourth perspective, first end, and second end views of a centre element of the apparatus of Figures 13A and 13B;

17 Figures 17A and 17B are respectively perspective and sectional views of a patch 18 apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention, shown in a collapsed condition;

Figures 18A and 18B are respectively perspective and sectional views of the apparatus of 21 Figures 17A and 17B, shown in an expanded condition;

23 Figure 19 is a side view of an apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the 24 invention in a first, collapsed condition;
26 Figure 20 is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 19 a second, collapsed condition;

28 Figures 21A and 21B are respectively plan and isometric views of an element of the 29 apparatus of Figures 19 and 20; and 31 Figures 22A and 22B are respectively plan and isometric views of a second element of the 32 apparatus of Figures 19 and 20.

1 Detailed description of preferred embodiments 3 Referring firstly to Figures 1A to 4F, the principles of the invention will be described with 4 reference to an expanding apparatus which is useful for understanding the invention and its embodiments. In the arrangement of Figures 1A to 4F, the expanding apparatus, 6 generally depicted at 10, comprises an expanding ring structure configured to be 7 expanded from a first collapsed or unexpanded condition (shown in Figures 1A to 1D) and 8 a second expanded condition (shown in Figures 2A to 2D). The apparatus of this and 9 other embodiments may be referred to as "expanding apparatus" for convenience, as they are operable to move to an expanded state from a normal collapsed state.
However, the 11 apparatus may equally be referred to as a collapsing apparatus, or an expanding or 12 collapsing apparatus, as they are capable of being expanded or collapsed depending on 13 operational state.

The expanding apparatus 10 comprises a plurality of elements 12 assembled together to 16 form a ring structure 11. The elements 12 define an inner ring surface which is supported 17 by the outer surface of cylinder 14. Each element comprises an inner surface 20, an outer 18 surface 21 and first and second contact surfaces 22, 23. The first and second contact 19 surfaces are oriented in non-parallel planes, which are tangential to a circle centred on the longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The planes converge towards the inner surface of the 21 element. Therefore, each element is in the general form of a wedge, and the wedges are 22 assembled together in a circumferentially overlapping fashion to form the ring structure 11.
23 In use, the first and second contact surfaces of adjacent elements are mutually supportive.

As most clearly shown in Figures 3A and 3B, when the ring structure is expanded to its 26 optimal outer diameter, the orientation planes of the first and second contact surfaces 27 intersect an inner surface of the ring structure, and together with the longitudinal axis of 28 the apparatus, the lines of intersection define a sector of a cylinder.
In this case, the ring 29 structure is formed from twenty-four identical elements, and the central angle 01 is 15 degrees. The angle described between the orientation planes of the first and second 31 contact surface is the same as the central angle of the cylindrical sector, so that the 32 elements are arranged rotationally symmetrically in the structure.

34 As shown in Figure 3B, each element is based on a notional wedge-shaped segment of a ring centred on an axis, with each notional wedge-shaped segment being inclined with 1 respect to the radial direction of the ring. The nominal outer diameter of the segment is at 2 the optimum expansion condition of the ring (with radius shown at ri).

4 The orientation planes of the first and second contact surfaces of the element are tangential to a circle with radius r3concentric with the ring at points ti, t2. The angle 6 described between the tangent points is equal to the angle 01 of the segment. The 7 orientation planes of the first and second contact surfaces of each notional wedge-shaped 8 segment intersect one another on a radial plane P which bisects radial planes located at 9 the tangent points (i.e. is at an angle of 01/2 to both). This intersection plane P defines the expanding and collapsing path of the segment.

12 In the configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2, notional wedge-shaped segments are 13 modified by removal of the tips 29 of the wedges, to provide a curved or arced inner 14 surface 20 with radius r2 when the ring is in its expanded condition shown in Figures 2A
and 2D. The modification of the wedge-shaped elements can be thought of as an increase 16 in diameter of an internal bore through the ring structure by 2(r243), or a truncation of the 17 inner diameter. This change in the inner diameter from the notional inner diameter r3 to 18 which the contact surfaces are tangential to a truncated inner diameter r2, has the effect of 19 changing an angle between the contact surfaces and the radial plane from the centre of the ring. Taking angle 02 to be the angle described between the contact surface and a 21 radial plane defined between the centre point of the ring structure and the point at which 22 the orientation surface meets or intersects a circle at the radial position of the inner 23 surface, 02 is changed in dependence on the amount by which the segment has its inner 24 diameter truncated. For the notional wedge shaped segment, the orientation planes of the contact surfaces are tangential to a circle at the inner diameter at r3(i.e.
angle 02 is 90 26 degrees). For the modified elements 12, the orientation planes of the contact surfaces 27 instead intersect a circle at the (increased) inner diameter at r2 and are inclined at a 28 reduced angle 02.

The angle 02 at which the segment is inclined is related to the amount of material removed 31 from the notional wedge-shaped segment, but is independent from the central angle 01 of 32 the wedge. Angle 02 is selected to provide element dimensions suitable for manufacture, 33 robustness, and fit within the desired annular volume and inner and outer diameters of the 34 collapsed ring. As the angle 02 approaches 90 degrees, a shallower, finer wedge profile is created by the element, which may enable optimisation of the collapsed volume of the ring 1 structure. Although a shallower, finer wedge profile may have the effect of reducing the 2 size of the gaps created at the inner surface of the ring in the collapsed condition and/or 3 enabling a more compact collapsed condition, there are some consequences.
These 4 include the introduction of flat sections at the inner surfaces of the elements, which manifest as spaces at the inner diameter of the ring when in an expanded or partially 6 expanded condition. When 02 = 90 degrees, all the segments are purely tangential to 7 inner diameter, the collapsed volume for a given outer diameter and inner diameter is most 8 efficient, but the inner surface of the ring structure is polygonal with flat sections created by 9 each segment. In some configurations, these flat sections may be undesirable. There may also be potential difficulties with manufacture of the elements and robustness of the 11 elements and assembled ring structure. However, in many applications, where the profile 12 of the inner surface of the expanded ring is not critical, for example when the inner 13 diameter of the ring structure is floating, and/or the true inner diameter is defined by an 14 actuation wedge profile rather than the inner surface of the ring, this compromise may not be detrimental to the operation of the apparatus, and the reduced collapse volume may 16 justify an inclination angle 02 of (or approaching) 90 degrees.

18 In the apparatus of Figures 1 to 4, the angle 02 is 75 degrees. Relaxing 02 to a reduced 19 angle provides a smooth outer diameter and inner diameter profile to the expanded ring, as a portion of the inner circular arc is retained at the expense of slightly increased 21 collapsed volume. It should be noted that the angle 02 is independent from the angle 81.
22 Where the ring structure is desired to have a circular inner surface, preferred 23 arrangements may have an angle 02 which is in the range of (90 degrees -281) to 90 24 degrees inclusive, and particularly preferred arrangements have an angle 02 in the range of 70 degrees to 90 degrees (most preferably in the range of 73 degrees to 90 degrees).
26 In general, to provide sufficient truncation of the inner diameter to retain a useful portion of 27 an inner arc and provide a smooth inner surface to the ring structure, a maximum useful 28 value of 02 is (90 degrees - 81/2). This would be 82.5 degrees in the described 29 arrangements.
31 In other configurations, also in accordance with embodiments of the invention (and as will 32 be described below) the geometry of the notional wedge-shaped segments forming the 33 elements may be unmodified (save for the provision of functional formations such as for 34 interlocking and/or retention of the elements), without the removal of material from the tip 1 of the notional wedge-shaped segments. Such embodiments may be preferred when 2 there is no requirement for the ring structure to have a circular inner surface.

4 As most clearly shown in Figures 4A to 4F, the first and second contact surfaces of the 5 element have corresponding interlocking profiles 24 formed therein, such that adjacent 6 elements can interlock with one another. In this case, the interlocking profiles comprise a 7 dovetail groove 25 and a corresponding dovetail tongue 26. The interlocking profiles resist 8 circumferential and/or radial separation of the elements in the ring structure, but permit 9 relative sliding motion between adjacent elements. The interlocking profiles also facilitate 10 smooth and uniform expansion and contraction of the elements during use.
It will be 11 appreciated that alternative forms of interlocking profiles, for example comprising recesses 12 and protrusions of other shapes and forms, may be used within the scope of the invention.

14 The elements are also provided with inclined side wall portions 27, which facilitate 15 deployment of the apparatus in use. The side wall portions are formed in an inverted cone 16 shape which corresponds to the shape and curvature of the actuating cone wedges 17 profiles when the apparatus is in its maximum load condition (typically at its optimum 18 expansion condition).

20 Each element is also provided with a groove 28, and in the assembled ring structure, the

21 grooves are aligned to provide a circular groove which extends around the ring. The

22 groove accommodates a biasing element (not shown), for example a spiral retaining ring

23 of the type marketed by Smalley Steel Ring Company under the Spirolox brand, or a garter

24 spring. In this case, the biasing means is located around the outer surface of the elements, to bias the apparatus towards the collapsed condition shown in Figures 1A to 26 1D. Although one groove for accommodating a biasing means is provided in this 27 embodiment, in alternative embodiments of the apparatus, multiple grooves and biasing 28 means may be provided.

The apparatus 10 comprises a wedge member 16, which in this case is an annular ring 31 having a conical surface 18 opposing one side of the ring structure 11.
The wedge angle 32 corresponds with the angle of the inclined conical side walls 27 of the elements. A
33 corresponding wedge shaped profile (not shown) is optionally provided on the opposing 34 side of the ring structure to facilitate expansion of the ring elements.
In alternative 1 embodiments of the invention this optional additional wedge may be substituted with an 2 abutment shoulder.

4 Operation of the expansion apparatus will now be described. In the first, collapsed or unexpanded condition, shown most clearly in Figure 10, the elements are assembled in a 6 ring structure 11 which extends to a first outer diameter. In this embodiment, and as 7 shown in Figures 1B and 10, the wedge member 16 defines the maximum outer diameter 8 of the apparatus in the first condition. The elements are biased towards the unexpanded 9 condition by a spiral retaining ring (not shown), and are supported on the inner surface by the outer surface of the cylinder 14.

12 In use, an axial actuation force is imparted on the wedge member 16. Any of a number of 13 suitable means known in the art can be used for application of the axial actuation force, for 14 example, the application of a force from an outer sleeve positioned around the cylinder.
The force causes the wedge member 16 to move axially with respect to the cylinder, and 16 transfer a component of the axial force onto the recessed side wall of the elements. The 17 angle of the wedge transfers a radial force component to the elements 12, which causes 18 them to slide with respect to one another along their respective contact surfaces.

The movement of the expanding elements is tangential to a circle defined around the 21 longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The contact surfaces of the elements mutually support 22 one another before, during, and after expansion. The radial position of the elements 23 increases on continued application of the axial actuation force until the elements are 24 located at a desired outer radial position. This radial position may be defined by a controlled and limited axial displacement of the wedge member, or alternatively can be 26 determined by an inner surface of a bore or tubular in which the apparatus is disposed.

28 Figures 2A to 2D show clearly the apparatus in its expanded condition.
At an optimal 29 expansion condition, shown in Figures 2B and 2D, the outer surfaces of the individual elements combine to form a complete circle with no gaps in between the individual 31 elements. The outer surface of the expansion apparatus can be optimised for a specific 32 diameter, to form a perfectly round expanded ring (within manufacturing tolerances) with 33 no extrusion gaps on the inner or outer surfaces of the ring structure.
The design of the 34 expansion apparatus also has the benefit that a degree of under expansion or over 1 expansion (for example, to a slightly different radial position) does not introduce 2 significantly large gaps.

4 It is a feature of the invention that the elements are mutually supported before, throughout, and after the expansion, and do not create gaps between the individual elements during 6 expansion or at the fully expanded position. In addition, the arrangement of elements in a 7 circumferential ring, and their movement in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, 8 facilitates the provision of smooth side faces or flanks on the expanded ring structure.
9 With deployment of the elements in the plane of the ring structure, the overall width of the ring structure does not change. This enables use of the apparatus in close axial proximity 11 to other functional elements.

13 The apparatus has a range of applications, some of which are illustrated in the following 14 example embodiments. However, additional applications of the apparatus are possible which exploit its ability to effectively perform one or more of blocking or sealing an annular 16 path; contacting an auxiliary surface; gripping or anchoring against an auxiliary surface;
17 locating or engaging with radially spaced profiles; and/or supporting a radially spaced 18 component.

The present invention extends the principles described above to multi-stage or telescopic 21 expansion apparatus, which have applications to systems in which an increased 22 expansion ratio is desirable. The following embodiments of the invention describe 23 examples of such apparatus.

Referring now to Figures 5A to 60, there is shown a two-stage expansion apparatus in 26 accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figures 5A to 50 are respectively 27 perspective, longitudinal sectional, and end views of the apparatus in a first, collapsed 28 condition. Figures 6A to 60 are equivalent views of the apparatus in an expanded 29 condition. The apparatus, generally depicted at 170, comprises an expansion assembly 171 formed from three ring structures 172, 173a, 173b, each of which is formed from 31 separate elements in the manner described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The ring 32 structures 172, 173a, 173b are disposed on a mandrel 174 between a wedge portion 175 33 which is fixed on a mandrel, and a moveable cone wedge member 176. An inner ring 34 structure 172 is formed from a number of individual elements 177 assembled together.

1 The elements 177 are similar to the elements 12, and their form and function will 2 understood from Figures 1 to 4 and their accompanying description.

4 Figure 7 is a geometric representation of a centre element of the apparatus of Figures 5A
to 50, shown from one side, and Figures 8A to 8F are respectively first perspective, 6 second perspective, plan, first end, lower, and second end views of a centre element 177.
7 The Figures show the inner and outer surfaces, first and second contact surfaces, 8 interlocking profiles, and grooves for retaining circumferential springs which are equivalent 9 in form and function to the features of the elements 12. Biasing means in the form of a circumferential spring retains the centre ring structure in its collapsed condition.

12 Disposed on either side of the centre ring structure are first and second outer ring 13 structures 173a, 173b in the form of wedge ring structures. The wedge ring structures are 14 also assembled from an arrangement of elements which, again, are similar in form and function to the elements 12. However, instead of providing an outer surface which is 16 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, the outer surfaces of the 17 outer elements are inclined to provide respective wedge surfaces 178a, 178b which face 18 the centre ring structure 172.

Figure 9 is a geometric representation of an outer element 182 of the apparatus of Figures 21 5A to 50, shown from one side, and Figures 10A to 10H are respectively first perspective, 22 second perspective, third perspective, fourth perspective, plan, first end, lower, and 23 second end views of an outer element 182. The Figures show the inner and outer 24 surfaces 183, 184, first and second contact surfaces 185, 186, interlocking profiles 187, 188, and grooves 189 for retaining circumferential springs which are equivalent in form 26 and function to the features of the elements 12. In the assembled ring structure, the outer 27 elements and the centre elements are nested with one another, and the outer surfaces 28 184 of the outer elements define respective wedge profiles for corresponding centre 29 elements 177 during a first expansion stage as will be described below.
Biasing means in the form of a circumferential spring retains the outer rings structure in their collapsed 31 conditions, with the sequencing of the expanding and collapsing movement controlled by 32 the selection of the relative strengths of the biasing means of the centre ring and the outer 33 rings.

1 In a first, collapsed condition, the elements of the centre ring structure and the elements of 2 the first and second outer ring structures, have a maximum outer diameter which is less 3 than or equal to the outer diameter of the wedge profile 175 and wedge member 176.

Operation of this embodiment of the apparatus will be described, with additional reference 6 to Figures 6A to 60.

8 In common with other embodiments, the apparatus is actuated to be radially expanded to 9 a second diameter by an axial actuation force which moves the cone wedge member 176 on the mandrel and relative to the ring structure. The axial actuation force acts through 11 the ring structures 173a, 173b to impart axial and radial force components onto the 12 elements. Radial expansion of the ring structures 173a, 173b is resisted by their 13 respective circumferential springs arranged in grooves 179, and the forces are transferred 14 to the centre ring structure 172. The elements of the centre ring experience an axial force from the wedge surfaces 178a, 178b of the elements of the outer ring structures, which is 16 translated to a radial expansion force on the elements of the centre ring structure 172. The 17 radial expansion force overcomes the retaining force of a circumferential spring in the 18 groove 181 (which is selected to be weaker than the retaining forces of the circumferential 19 springs in the outer rings), and the elements slide with respect to one another to expand the centre ring structure as the outer ring structures move together.

22 The pair of outer rings is brought together until the elements of the centre ring structure 23 are expanded on the wedge profiles of the outer elements. In this condition, the first 24 expansion stage is complete, but the centre ring is not yet expanded to its optimum outer diameter.

27 The elements of the wedge ring structure 173a, 173b are symmetrical about a centre line 28 of the ring structure, and are configured to be brought into abutment with one another 29 under a central line under the centre segments. This design defines an end point of the axial travel of an outer ring structure, and prevents its elements from over-travelling. This 31 abutment point changes the mode of travel of an outer ring from axial displacement (during 32 which it expands an adjacent ring which is disposed towards the centre of the apparatus 33 by a wedging action) into a tangential sliding movement of elements within the ring, to 34 cause it to expand radially on the apparatus.

1 The outer ring structures 173a and 173b have been brought together into abutment, and 2 further application of an axial actuation force causes the elements of the respective outer 3 ring structures to experience a radial force component from the wedge 175 and the wedge 4 profile 176. The radial force directs the elements of the outer ring structures to slide with 5 respect to one another into radially expanded conditions. The radial movement of the 6 elements of the outer rings is the same as the movement of the elements of the centre ring 7 structure and the elements described with reference to previous embodiments: the 8 elements slide with respect to one another in a tangential direction, while remaining in 9 mutually supportive planar contact. As the outer ring structures expand, a radial force is 10 imparted to the elements of the centre ring, which continue to slide with respect to one 11 another in a tangential direction to their fully expanded condition.

13 The resulting expanded condition is shown in Figures 6A to 60. The apparatus forms an 14 expanded ring structure which is solid, with no gaps between its elements, and which has 15 a smooth circular outer surface at its full expanded condition. In addition, both of the 16 annular surfaces or flanks of the expanded ring are smooth. The outer diameter of the 17 expanded ring is significantly greater than the outer diameter of the ring structures (and 18 wedges) in their collapsed state, with the increased expansion resulting from the two stage 19 mechanism.
21 Retaining the axial force on the wedges will retain the ring structure in an expanded 22 condition, and a reduction in the axial force to separate the wedge profiles enables the 23 inner and outer ring structures to collapse under the retention forces of their respective 24 spring elements.
26 Collapsing of the apparatus to a collapsed condition is achieved by releasing the axial 27 actuation force. The sequence of collapsing is the reverse of the expanding process: the 28 outer ring structures are collapsed first under the higher retaining forces of their respective 29 biasing springs. Collapse of the outer rings also brings the centre ring structure from is fully expanded condition to an intermediate condition. Further separation of the wedge 31 profiles collapses the centre ring structure under the retaining force of its biasing spring, 32 back to the collapsed position shown in Figures 5A and 5B.

34 The principles of the two-stage expansion mechanism can be extended to other multi-stage expanding and collapsing apparatus. Figures 11A to 120 show such an apparatus, 1 which has a four-stage expansion system. Figures 11A to 110 are respectively 2 perspective, longitudinal sectional, and end views of the apparatus in a first, collapsed 3 condition. Figures 12A to 120 are equivalent views of the apparatus in an expanded 4 condition. The apparatus, generally shown at 190, is similar to the apparatus 170, and its form and function will be understood from Figures 5 to 10 and the accompanying 6 description. However, the apparatus 190 differs in that it comprises a centre ring structure 7 191 formed from individual elements, and three pairs of outer ring structures 192, 193, 194 8 (each consisting of upper and lower ring structures 192a, 192b, 193a, 193b, 194a, 194b) 9 disposed on a mandrel 197 between wedge 195 and wedge profile 196.
11 In successive stages of actuation, the centre ring structure 191 is deployed to a first 12 intermediate expanded state, and first, second, and third pairs of outer ring structures are 13 deployed to their radially expanded states, from the inside of the apparatus adjacent to the 14 centre ring, to the outside. At each stage, the centre ring structure is deployed to successive intermediate expanded states, until it is fully expanded as shown in Figures 16 12A to 120. The outer diameter of the expanded ring is significantly greater than the outer 17 diameter of the ring structures (and wedges) in their collapsed state, with the increased 18 expansion resulting from the four-stage mechanism. Sequencing of the expansion is 19 designed to be from the inside to the outside by selection of biasing springs with successively higher retaining forces (moving from the inside or centre of the apparatus to 21 the outermost rings). Collapsing of the apparatus to a collapsed condition is achieved by 22 releasing the axial actuation force, and the sequence of collapsing is the reverse of the 23 expanding process.

Figures 13A to 14D show a multi-stage expanding and collapsing system in accordance 26 with an alternative embodiment of the invention. Figures 13A and 13B are respectively 27 perspective and longitudinal sectional views of the apparatus in a first, collapsed condition.
28 Figures 14A and 14B are equivalent views of the apparatus in an expanded condition;
29 Figure 140 is an end view and Figure 14D is a section through line D-D
of Figure 14B.
The apparatus, generally shown at 280, is similar to the apparatus 170 and 190, and its 31 form and function will be understood from Figures 5 to 12 and the accompanying 32 description. However, the apparatus 280 differs in that it comprises pars of ring structures 33 281, 282, 283 formed from individual elements with geometry different from those of 34 previous embodiments.

1 Figure 15 is a geometric representation of a centre element of the apparatus of Figures 2 13A and 13B, shown from one side, and Figures 16A to 16F are respectively first 3 perspective, second perspective, plan, first end, lower, and second end views of a centre 4 element 284. The Figures show the inner and outer surfaces, first and second contact surfaces, interlocking profiles, and grooves for retaining circumferential springs which are 6 equivalent in form and function to the features of the elements 12 and 177.

8 Each element is effectively a segment of a ring which has its nominal outer diameter at the 9 optimum expansion condition of the ring, but which has been inclined at an angle 02with respect to a radial direction. However, in this embodiment, 02 is 90 degrees, and a 11 shallower, finer wedge profile is created by the element. The orientation planes of the 12 contact surfaces are tangential to the circle described by the inner surface of the ring 13 structure in its collapsed condition. This enables optimisation of the collapsed volume of 14 the ring structure, by reducing the size of the gaps created at the inner surface of the ring in the collapsed condition and enabling a more compact collapsed condition.
These 16 include the introduction of flat sections 285 at the inner surface of the elements (visible in 17 Figure 14D), which manifest as spaces at the inner diameter of the ring when in an 18 expanded or partially expanded condition. In the construction shown, the profile of the 19 inner surface of the expanded ring is not critical, as the inner diameter of the ring structure is floating, and the true inner diameter is defined by the actuation wedge profiles 286, 287 21 rather than the inner surface of the ring. The spaces are therefore not detrimental to the 22 operation of the apparatus, and the apparatus benefits from a reduced collapse volume.

24 The elements 284 also differ from the elements of previous embodiments of the invention in that the interlocking profiles formed by grooves and tongues are inverted, such that the 26 groove 288 is in the inner surface of the element, and the tongue 289 is in the outer 27 surface. This increases the engagement length between adjacent elements.

29 The elements 290 of the ring structures 282 and 283 are similarly formed, with angle 02 at 90 degrees, with the orientation planes of their contact surfaces being tangential to the 31 circle described by the inner surface of the ring structure in its collapsed condition.

33 It should be noted that in other embodiments, different angles 02 may be adopted, 34 including those which are in the range of 80 degrees to 90 degrees (most preferably tending towards 90 degrees).

2 Operation of the expanding and collapsing apparatus is the same as that described with 3 reference to Figures 11A to 120, with the centre ring structure 281 being deployed to a 4 first intermediate expanded state, and first and second pairs of outer ring structures being deployed to their radially expanded states, in sequence from the inside of the apparatus 6 adjacent to the centre ring 281, to the outside. Sequencing of the expansion is designed 7 to be from the inside to the outside by selection of biasing springs with successively higher 8 retaining forces (moving from the inside or centre of the apparatus to the outermost rings).
9 Collapsing of the apparatus to a collapsed condition is achieved by releasing the axial actuation force, and the sequence of collapsing is the reverse of the expanding process.

12 The apparatus 280, by virtue of the compact collapsed inner volumes achievable with the 13 finer wedge profiles, is capable of increased expansion ratios. In this example, the 14 apparatus 280 is configured to have the same expansion ratio as the apparatus 190, with only two pairs of expanding ring structure compared with the three pairs in the apparatus 16 190. This reduces the axial length of the apparatus and greatly reduces the number of 17 parts required.

19 The particularly high expansion ratios achieved with the multi-stage expansion embodiments of the invention enable application to a range of operations. For example, 21 the apparatus may form part of a mechanically actuated, high expansion, production 22 packer or high expansion annular flow barrier. Particular applications include (but are not 23 limited to) cement stage packers or external casing packers for openhole applications.

The expansion ratios achievable also enable use of the apparatus in through-tubing 26 applications, in which the apparatus is required to pass through a tubing or restriction of a 27 first inner diameter, and be expanded into contact with a tubing of a larger inner diameter 28 at a greater depth in the wellbore. For example, the apparatus may be used in a high 29 expansion retrievable plug, which is capable of passing through a production tubing to set the plug in a larger diameter liner at the tailpipe.

32 An alternative application of the multi-stage expansion apparatus of Figures 5 and 6 to a 33 fluid conduit patch tool and apparatus will now be described with reference to Figures 13A
34 to 14B. A typical patching application requires the placement and setting of a tubular section over a damaged part of a fluid conduit (such as a wellbore casing). A
patch tool 1 comprises a tubular and a pair of setting mechanisms axially separated positions on the 2 outside of the conduit for securing the tubular to the inside of the fluid conduit. It is 3 desirable for the setting mechanisms to provide an effective flow barrier, but existing patch 4 systems are often deficient in providing a fluid-tight seal with the inner surface of the fluid conduit, and are limited in their expansion capabilities.

7 Figures 13A and 13B show a high expansion patch tool, generally depicted at 210, from 8 perspective and longitudinal sectional views shown in a collapsed, run position. Figures 9 14A and 14B are equivalent views of the apparatus in an expanded condition.
11 The patch tool comprises a tubular section 211, and a pair of expansion assemblies 212a, 12 212b (together 212) in axially separated positions on the section. The distance between 13 the assemblies 212a, 212b is selected to span the damaged section of a fluid conduit to be 14 patched. Each of the assemblies 212 comprises a pair of expansion apparatus 213a, 213b, disposed on either side of an elastomeric seal element 214. The expansion 16 apparatus 213 are similar in form and function to the expansion apparatus 170, and their 17 operation will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Each comprises a centre 18 ring structure and a pair of outer ring structures. A pair of cone wedge members 215 is 19 provided on either side of the expansion apparatus 213.
21 The elastomeric seal elements 214 are profiled such that an axially compressive force 22 deforms the elastomeric material, and brings first and second halves 214a, 214b of the 23 seal element together around a deformation recess 216.

The patch tool is, like other embodiments of the invention, configured to be actuated by an 26 axial force. The axial force acts to radially expand the expansion apparatus 213 in the 27 manner described with reference to Figures 5 and 6, and into contact with the fluid conduit 28 to be patched. The elastomeric seals are deformed by the axial force via the cone wedges 29 215, to change shape and fill an enclosed annular space formed between a pair of expansion apparatus 213a, 213b. The expanded condition is shown in Figures 14A
and 31 14B.

33 The expansion apparatus may provide sufficient frictional force with the inner surface of 34 the conduit being patched to secure the patch tool in the conduit. This may be facilitated by providing engaging profiles on the expansion apparatus. For example, unidirectional or 1 bidirectional arrangements of ridges and grooves may be provided to engage a 2 surrounding surface and resist movement of the apparatus. Alternatively (or in addition), 3 separate anchor mechanisms may be provided.

5 The patch tool 210 provides a pair of effective seals which are fully supported by the 6 expansion apparatus, each of which forms a solid anti-extrusion ring.

8 Figures 19 to 22B show a multi-stage expanding and collapsing system in accordance with 9 an alternative embodiment of the invention. Figures 19 and 20 are respectively side views 10 of the apparatus in a first, collapsed condition and second expanded condition. Figures 11 21A and 21B are respectively plan and isometric views of the a first set of elements of the 12 apparatus; Figures 22A and 22B are respectively plan and isometric views of a second set 13 of elements of the apparatus. The apparatus, generally shown at 380, is similar to the 14 apparatus 170, 190, and 280, with a central ring structure 381 formed from an assembly of 15 elements 384, and two pairs of ring structures 382a, 382b (together 382), 383a and 383b 16 (together 383). The form and function of the apparatus will be understood from Figures 5 17 to 18 and the accompanying description. However, the apparatus 380 differs in that it 18 comprises pairs of ring structures 382, 383 formed from individual elements with geometry 19 different from those of previous embodiments.
21 Figures 21A and 21B are respectively plan and isometric views of an element 385, from 22 which the outer ring structures 383a, 383b are assembled. Figures 22A
and 22B are 23 respectively plan and isometric views of an element 386, from which the intermediate ring 24 structures 382a, 382b are assembled. The Figures show the outer surfaces, first contact surfaces, and interlocking tongues. The external profiles of the elements 385, 386 are 26 modified by provision of additional chamfers 387, 388. These chamfers modify the 27 external profile of the elements, so that when assembled into a ring, the inward facing 28 flank (i.e. the flank facing the centre ring) has an at least partially smoothed conical 29 surface. This facilitates the deployment of the apparatus; the smoother conical surface improves the sliding action of the elements the centre ring 381 on the conical profiles of 31 the rings 382a, 382b as the elements are brought together to expand the centre ring.
32 Similarly, the smoothed inward facing flank of the rings 383a, 383b facilitate the sliding of 33 the elements 382a of the rings 382a, 383b during their expansion. The smoothed cones 34 assist a supporting ring in punching under the adjacent ring with a smooth action, 1 The outer surfaces 389, 390 of the elements 385, 386 are profiled such that the ring 2 structures 382, 383 define smooth conical surfaces on their outward facing flanks when in 3 their expanded condition. These conical surfaces combine in the assembled, expanded 4 apparatus, to provide a substantially or fully smooth surface which is suitable for abutment with and/or support of an adjacent element such as an elastomer.

7 The elements 385, 386 also differ from the elements of previous embodiments of the 8 invention in that the biasing means in the form of garter springs are not mounted in 9 external grooves. Instead, apertures 391, 392 are provided in the elements for receiving the garter springs (or an alternative biasing means). The garter spring may be threaded 11 through each element and then joined to make a continuous loop upon assembly. By 12 providing the biasing means in-board of the external surface, it may be better protected 13 from damage. In addition, the external profile of the elements is simplified and is more 14 supportive of adjacent elements as supportive as possible. This configuration also facilitates location of the biasing means directly over the dovetail feature, so that the 16 biasing force acts centrally to reduce the likelihood of canting and jamming.

18 The invention may be used to provide an anti-extrusion ring or back-up ring for a wide 19 range of expanding, radially expanding or swelling elements. For example, the apparatus may be used as an anti-extrusion or back-up ring for compressible, inflatable and/or 21 swellable packer systems. Alternatively, or in addition, the expansion apparatus may 22 provide support or back-up for any suitable flow barrier or seal element in the fluid conduit.
23 This may function to improve the integrity of the fluid barrier or seal, and/or enable a 24 reduction in the axial length of the seal element or flow barrier without compromising its functionality. A particular advantage is that equipment incorporating the expansion 26 apparatus of the present invention can be rated to a higher maximum working pressure.

28 It will be appreciated that a "single stage" expansion apparatus, for example as described 29 with reference to Figure 1 to 4, may be used in a patch tool and method of use. Indeed, in some applications this may desirable, as the resulting patched tubular can have an inner 31 diameter close to the inner diameter of the fluid conduit that has been patched, mitigating 32 the reduction to bore size. However, the patch tool 210 has the advantage of high 33 expansion for a slim outer diameter profile, which enables the tool to be run through a 34 restriction in the fluid conduit, to patch a damaged part of the conduit which has a larger inner diameter than the restriction. For example, the patching tool could be run through a 1 part of the fluid conduit that has already been patched, either by conventional means or by 2 a patching tool based on a single-stage expansion apparatus. Higher expansion ratio 3 patching tools could be used, based on expansion apparatus having three or more stage 4 deployment.
6 In the foregoing embodiments, where the expanding and collapsing apparatus is used to 7 create a seal, the seal is typically disposed between two expanding ring structures. In 8 alternative embodiments (not illustrated), an expanding ring structure can be used to 9 provide a seal, or at least a restrictive flow barrier directly. To facilitate this, the elements which are assembled together to create the ring structures may be formed from metal or a 11 metal alloy which is fully or partially coated or covered with a polymeric, elastomeric or 12 rubber material. An example of such a material is a silicone polymer coating. All surfaces 13 of the elements may be coated, for example by a dipping or spraying process, and the 14 mutually supportive arrangement of the elements keeps them in compression in their operating condition. This enables the ring structures themselves to function as flow 16 barriers, and in some applications, a seal created is sufficient to seal against differential 17 pressures to create a seal.

19 Alternatively, or in addition, the elements themselves may be formed from a compressible and/or resilient material, such as an elastomer, rubber or polymer.

22 In a further alternative embodiment of the invention (not illustrated) the characteristics of 23 the expanding/collapsing apparatus are exploited to provide a substrate which supports a 24 seal or other deformable element. As described herein, the expanded ring structures of the invention provide a smooth circular cylindrical surface at their optimum expanded 26 conditions. This facilitates their application as a functional endo-skeleton for a surrounding 27 sheath. In one example application, a deformable elastomeric sheath is provided over an 28 expanding ring structure 10, as described with reference to Figures 5A
to 60. When in its 29 collapsed condition, the sheath is supported by the collapsed ring structures. The ring structure are deployed in the manner described with reference to Figures 1 and 2, against 31 the retaining force of the circumferential spring element and any additional retaining force 32 provided by the sheath, and the sheath is deformed to expand with the ring structure into 33 contact with the surrounding surface. The sheath is sandwiched between the smooth 34 outer surface of the ring structure and the surrounding surface to create a seal.

1 It will be appreciated that a multistage expanding apparatus (for example the apparatus 2 170) could be used as an endo-skeleton to provide structural support for components 3 other than deformable sheaths, including tubulars, expanding sleeves, locking formations 4 and other components in fluid conduits or wellbores.
6 The multi-stage expansion apparatus of the invention may be applied to a high expansion 7 packer or plug, and in particular a high expansion retrievable bridge plug. The ring 8 structure may be arranged to provide a high-expansion anti-extrusion ring for a seal 9 element of a plug. Alternatively, or in addition, elements of ring structures of the apparatus may be provided with engaging means to provide anchoring forces which resist movement 11 in upward and/or downward directions. The elements of the rings structure may therefore 12 function as slips, and may in some cases function as an integrated slip and anti-extrusion 13 ring. Advantages over previously proposed plugs include the provision of a highly effective 14 anti-extrusion ring; providing an integrated slip and anti-extrusion assembly, which reduces the axial length of the tool; providing slips with engaging surfaces which extend around the 16 entire circumference of the tool to create an enlarged anchoring surface, which enables a 17 reduction in the axial length of the slips for the same anchoring force;
the ability of slips of 18 a ring structure of one particular size to function effectively over a wider range of tubular 19 inner diameters and tubing weights/wall thicknesses.
21 Alternatively or in addition, the apparatus may be used to anchor any of a wide range of 22 tools in a wellbore, by providing the surfaces of the element with engaging means to 23 provide anchoring forces which resist movement in upward and/or downward directions.

The invention also has benefits in creating a seal and/or filling an annular space, and an 26 additional example application is to downhole locking tools. A typical locking tool uses one 27 or more radially expanding components deployed on a running tool. The radially 28 expanding components engage with a pre-formed locking profile at a known location in the 29 wellbore completion. A typical locking profile and locking mechanism includes a recess for mechanical engagement by the radially expanding components of the locking tool. A seal 31 bore is typically provided in the profile, and a seal on the locking tool is designed to seal 32 against the seal bore.

34 One advantage of the application of the invention to locking mechanism is that the locking mechanism may be provided with an integrated seal element between two expanding sring 1 structures, and does not require a seal assembly at an axially separated point. This 2 enables a reduction in the length of the tool. The integrated seal is surrounded at its upper 3 and lower edges by the surfaces of the ring structures, which avoid extrusion of the seal.

In addition, each of the ring structures provides a smooth, unbroken circumferential 6 surface which may engage a locking recess, providing upper and lower annular surfaces in 7 a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bore. This annular surface may be 8 smooth and unbroken around the circumference of the ring structures, and therefore the 9 lock is in full abutment with upper and lower shoulders defined in the locking profile. This is in contrast with conventional locking mechanisms which may only have contact with a 11 locking profile at a number of discrete, circumferentially-separated locations around the 12 device. The increased surface contact can support larger axial forces being directed 13 through the lock. Alternatively, an equivalent axial support can be provided in a lock which 14 has reduced size and/or mass.
16 Another advantage of this embodiment of the invention is that a seal bore (i.e. the part of 17 the completion with which the elastomer creates a seal) can be recessed in the locking 18 profile. The benefit of such configuration is that the seal bore is protected from the 19 passage of tools and equipment through the locking profile. This avoids impact with the seal bore which would tend to damage the seal bore, reducing the likelihood of reliably 21 creating a successful seal.

23 Similar benefits may be delivered in latching arrangements used in connectors, such as so 24 called "quick connect" mechanisms used for latched connection of tubular components. A
significant advantage of the invention in connection system applications is that the 26 expansion apparatus forms a solid and smooth ring in an expanded latched position. An 27 arrangement of radially split elements would, when expanded, form a ring with spaces 28 between elements around their sides. In contrast, the provision of a continuous 29 engagement surface on the expansion ring which provides full annular contact with the recess results in a latch capable of supporting larger axial forces. In addition, the by 31 minimising or eliminating gaps between elements, the device is less prone to ingress of 32 foreign matter which could impede the collapsing action of the mechanism. These 33 principles may also be applied to subsea connectors such as tie-back connectors, with 34 optional hydraulic actuation of their release mechanism.

1 Additional applications of the principles of the invention include variable diameter tools, 2 examples of which include variable diameter drift tools and variable diameter centralising 3 tools. The position a wedge member and a cooperating surface may be adjusted 4 continuously or to a number of discrete positions, to provide a continuously variable 5 diameter, or a number of discrete diameters.

7 The invention provides an expanding and collapsing apparatus and methods of use. The 8 apparatus comprises a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure 9 oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis. The ring structure is operable to be moved 10 between an expanded condition and a collapsed condition on actuation by an axial force.
11 The plurality of elements are operable to be moved between the expanded and collapsed 12 conditions by sliding with respect to one another in the plane of the ring structure.

14 The invention provides an expanding and collapsing ring apparatus and method of use.
15 The expanding and collapsing ring comprises a plurality of elements assembled together 16 to form a ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis.
The ring structure is 17 operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and a first expanded condition by 18 movement of the plurality of elements on actuation by an axial force.
The apparatus 19 further comprises a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism operable to move the 20 ring structure between its collapsed condition or its first expanded conditions to a second 21 expanded condition on actuation by an axial force. Applications of the invention include 22 oilfield devices, including anti-extrusion rings, plugs, packers, locks, patching tools, 23 connection systems, and variable diameter tools run in a wellbore.

25 The invention in its various forms benefits from the novel structure and mechanism of the

26 apparatus. The invention also enables high expansion applications.

27

28 In addition, at an optimal expansion condition, shown in Figures 2B and 2D, the outer

29 surfaces of the individual elements combine to form a complete circle with no gaps in

30 between the individual elements, and therefore the apparatus can be optimised for a

31 specific diameter, to form a perfectly round expanded ring (within manufacturing

32 tolerances) with no extrusion gaps on the inner or outer surfaces of the ring structure.

33 The design of the expansion apparatus also has the benefit that a degree of under

34 expansion or over expansion (for example, to a slightly different radial position) does not

35 introduce significantly large gaps.

36 2 It is a feature of the invention that the elements are mutually supported before, throughout, 3 and after the expansion, and do not create gaps between the individual elements during 4 expansion or at the fully expanded position. In addition, the arrangement of elements in a circumferential ring, and their movement in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, 6 facilitates the provision of smooth side faces or flanks on the expanded ring structure.
7 With deployment of the elements in the plane of the ring structure, the width of the ring 8 structure does not change. This enables use of the apparatus in close axial proximity to 9 other functional elements.
11 In addition, each of the ring structures provides a smooth, unbroken circumferential 12 surface which may be used in engagement or anchoring applications, including in plugs, 13 locks, and connectors. This may provide an increased anchoring force, or full abutment 14 with upper and lower shoulders defined in a locking or latching profile, enabling tools or equipment be rated to a higher maximum working pressure.

17 Various modifications to the above-described embodiments may be made within the scope 18 of the invention, and the invention extends to combinations of features other than those 19 expressly claimed herein. In particular, the different embodiments described herein may be used in combination, and the features of a particular embodiment may be used in 21 applications other than those specifically described in relation to that embodiment.

Claims

1. An expanding and collapsing ring apparatus comprising:
a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis;
wherein the ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and a first expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements on actuation by an axial force;
and wherein the apparatus further comprises a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism operable to move the ring structure between its collapsed condition or its first expanded condition to a second expanded condition on actuation by an axial force.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of elements is operable to be moved relative to one another between the expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding the elements with respect to one another in the plane of the ring structure.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the ring structure comprises one or more ring surfaces configured to be presented to an auxiliary surface when actuated to an expanded condition or a collapsed condition.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the one or more ring surfaces comprises a substantially cylindrical surface arranged to contact or otherwise interact with an inner surface of a tubular or bore.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the ring surface is substantially smooth.

6. The apparatus according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the ring surface is provided with one or more functional formations thereon, for interacting with an auxiliary surface.

7. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the elements are configured to move between their expanded and collapsed radial positions in a path which is tangential to a circle described around and concentric with the longitudinal axis.

8. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein each element of the ring structure comprises a first contact surface and second contact surface respectively in abutment with first and second adjacent elements, and wherein the elements are configured to slide relative to one another along their respective contact surfaces.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first contact surface and/or the second contact surface are oriented tangentially to a circle described around and concentric with the longitudinal axis.

10. The apparatus according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the first contact surface and the second contact surface converge towards one another in a direction towards an inner surface of the ring structure.

11. The apparatus according to any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first and second contact surfaces of an element are oriented on first and second planes, which intersect an inner surface of the ring at first and second intersection lines, such that a sector of an imaginary cylinder is defined between the longitudinal axis and the intersection lines; and wherein a central angle of the sector is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees.

12. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the elements are provided with interlocking profiles for interlocking with an adjacent element.

13. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising a biasing means configured to bias the ring structure to one of its expanded or collapsed conditions.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the biasing means comprises a circumferential spring, a garter spring, or a spiral retaining ring.

15. The apparatus according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the biasing means is arranged around an outer surface of a ring structure, to bias it towards a collapsed condition.

16. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the ring structure is a first ring structure, and the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism comprises a second ring structure, wherein the second ring structure is operable to move the first ring structure from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the second ring structure is one of a second pair of ring structures, operable to move the first ring structure from an intermediate expanded condition to a fully expanded condition.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein each of the second pair of ring structures are disposed on opposing sides of the first ring structure.

19. The apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein each of the second pair of ring structures comprises a plurality of second elements assembled together to form the second ring structure oriented in a plane around the longitudinal axis.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the plurality of second elements is operable to be moved relative to one another between expanded and collapsed conditions of the respective second ring structures by sliding the second elements with respect to one another in the planes of the second ring structures.

21. The apparatus according to any of claims 16 to 20, wherein each of the second ring structures defines a respective outer surface, which is inclined with respect to a surface parallel to the longitudinal axis.

22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the respective outer surfaces are conical wedge surfaces which face the first ring structure.

23. The apparatus according to any of claims 19 to 22, wherein the plurality of elements of the second ring structures are operable to be moved between their expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding with respect to one another in the plane of the second ring structure, in a direction tangential to a circle concentric with the second ring structure.

24. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of additional ring structures arranged in functional pairs, and operable to move the first ring structure from an intermediate expanded condition to a subsequent intermediate expanded condition, or a fully expanded condition.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein each additional ring structure comprises a biasing means configured to bias the first ring structure to one of its expanded or collapsed conditions.

26. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein biasing means of the first and second or additional ring structures are selected to define a sequence of expanding and collapsing of the apparatus.

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the biasing means of the first and second or additional ring structures are selected to expand the centremost ring structure before an adjacent pair of additional ring structures.

28. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein a functional pair of second or additional ring structures and/or the elements thereof is symmetrical about a centre ring structure.

29. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein each of a functional pair of additional ring structures and/or the elements thereof are configured to move axially with respect to one another on the apparatus into abutment with one another.

30. The apparatus according any preceding claim, wherein each of a functional pair of additional ring structures and/or the elements thereof are configured to limit the travel of a corresponding additional ring structures and/or the elements thereof.

31. An oilfield tool comprising the apparatus of any of claims 1 to 30.

32. The oilfield tool according to claim 31, configured as a downhole tool selected from the group consisting of: a plug, a packer, an anchor, a tubing hanger, or a downhole locking tool.

33. The oilfield tool according to claim 32, configured as a retrievable bridge plug.

34. The oilfield tool according to claim 32, configured as a permanent plug.

35. A variable diameter downhole tool comprising an apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 30.

36. The variable diameter downhole tool according to claim 35, selected from the group consisting of a wellbore centraliser, a wellbore broach tool, and a wellbore drift tool.

37. A connector system comprising a first connector and a second connector, wherein one of the first and second connectors comprises the apparatus of any of claims 1 to 30.

38. A patch apparatus for a fluid conduit or tubular, the patch apparatus comprising the apparatus of any of claims 1 to 30.

39. A method of expanding an apparatus, the method comprising:
providing an apparatus comprising: a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis; and a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism;
imparting an axial force to the ring structure to move the plurality of elements from a collapsed condition to a first expanded condition; and imparting an axial force to the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism to move the first ring structure from its first expanded condition to a second expanded condition.

40. A method of collapsing an apparatus, the method comprising:
providing an apparatus comprising: a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis; and a secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism;
imparting an axial force to the ring structure to move the plurality of elements from a collapsed condition to a first expanded condition; and releasing or reducing an axial force from the secondary expanding and collapsing mechanism to move the first ring structure from a second expanded condition to a first expanded condition; and releasing or reducing an axial force from the ring structure to move the plurality of elements, thereby moving the ring structure from the first expanded condition to a collapsed condition.