Abstract: A linear indexing apparatus and associated methods of using same provide convenient operation of tools in a subterranean wellbore. In a preferred embodiment, a linear indexing apparatus has an outer tubular housing and a tubular mandrel axially slidably disposed within the housing. Two sets of slips are utilized to incrementally displace the mandrel relative to the housing. A piston associated with one of the sets of slips permits the mandrel to be incrementally indexed in response to a series of repeated applications of a predetermined differential pressure.

Abstract: The inventive sealing assembly designed to be set by longitudinal compression is mechanically energized, and comprises an elastomeric sealing element and a flexible member in intimate contact with the sealing element, a flexible portion of the flexible member having an expanded and a retracted position, wherein the flexible member is able to forcibly expand the sealing element when the flexible portion of the flexible member is expanded, and further wherein the flexible member is able to forcibly retract the sealing element when the flexible portion of the flexible member is retracted.The flexible member preferably has a generally cylindrical shape and a plurality of longitudinal slots, and passes at least partially through the sealing element, such that the element covers both the outer and inner surface of the flexible member, as well as passing through the slots.

Abstract: A linear indexing apparatus and associated methods of using same provide convenient operation of tools in a subterranean wellbore. In a preferred embodiment, a linear indexing apparatus has an outer tubular housing and a tubular mandrel axially slidably disposed within the housing. Two sets of slips are utilized to incrementally displace the mandrel relative to the housing. A piston associated with one of the sets of slips permits the mandrel to be incrementally indexed in response to a series of repeated applications of a predetermined differential pressure.

Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting two cylindrical members in which two connector members are respectively connected to the cylindrical members. The respective end portions of the connector members are adapted to interlock to prevent relative movement of the connector members, and therefore the cylindrical members, in a first plane. A sleeve extends over at least a portion of the connector members to prevent relative movement of the latter members, as well as the cylindrical members, in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. The sleeve is lockable in its preventing position and can be easily released by a simple rotation of the sleeve.

Abstract: A well tool system and a method utilizing said system e.g. pressuring a well conduit to determine whether the conduit has leaks. The system allows a plurality of no go type landing nipples to be used in a conduit without prohibitively restricting the flow therethrough. With the tool of the present system, the landing surface in each nipple is substantially smaller than in prior no go nipples since the landing surface does not support the tool during the well operation. Pressure-actuated, load-bearing keys are expanded into contact with the nipple once the tool is landed which, in turn, bear substantially all of the downward force on the tool during the well operation. The tool can easily be removed by reducing the upstream pressure and lifting the tool upward in the conduit.

Abstract: A shifting tool for sliding sleeve valves for use in oil and gas wells which has locating dogs that are used for selectively locating and engaging a shoulder inside the valve. Primary keys engage and selectively shift the sliding sleeve to an equalized position as well as prevent premature shifting to a fully open position. Also included is apparatus for selectively overriding the shifting prevention following equalization. Secondary keys lead the primary keys in the shifting direction and engage the sleeve and move it to the fully open detent position. There is also selective disengagement of the shifting tool from the sleeve valve to allow withdrawal of the shifting tool form the well. Furthermore, a method for selectively and sequentially shifting the sliding sleeve for a sliding sleeve valve from the closed to equalizing position, and then from the equalizing to fully open position is disclosed.