Abstract: An apparatus for use in a well. The apparatus comprises a mandrel containing a radial shoulder, a sub member concentrically disposed about the mandrel, and an upper slip, concentrically disposed about the mandrel, for engaging the well. The apparatus further comprises an upper cone abutting an underside of the upper slip, and wherein the upper cone is disposed about the mandrel, and an elastomer operatively associated with the upper cone, and wherein the elastomer is disposed about the mandrel. The apparatus further includes a lower slip, concentrically disposed about the mandrel, for engaging with the internal portion of the well, and lower cone abutting an underside of the lower slip, and wherein the lower cone is disposed about the mandrel, and wherein the lower cone is operatively associated with the elastomer. The apparatus further contains a first alignment member selectively connecting the sub with the upper slip, and wherein the first alignment pin is selected to shear at a first predetermined force.

Abstract: An expandable device for use in tubulars. The device comprises an outer tubular having a series of slots therein, with the slots being arranged about the exterior of the outer tubular. The device further includes an inner tubular disposed within the outer tubular, and a setting tool for moving the outer tubular in a first direction in order to expand the outer tubular along the slots. In one preferred embodiment, the slots are arranged about the outer tubular in a spiral pattern. In yet another preferred embodiment, the slots are arranged about the outer tubular in a first spiral pattern and wherein the first spiral pattern extends to a second spiral pattern. The setting tool, in one embodiment, comprises an outer setting sleeve connected to the outer tubular and a mandrel being connected to the inner member, and wherein the outer setting sleeve causes a downward force against the outer tubular so that the outer tubular expands. A method of expanding a device within a tubular is also disclosed.

Abstract: A slip assembly for anchoring a subterranean well tool, such as a packer or bridge plug, along the inner wall of a conduit, such as casing, against movements in at least one direction. As a series of radially aligned slip elements move from contracted to expanded positions, a continuous radial inwardly urging bias is applied against the slip elements to permit the slip elements to move to the expanded position in a substantially uniform plane of expansion. A subterranean well tool includes an elastomeric seal and the slip assembly.