Abstract: A bridge plug having a segmented backup shoe, and at least one split cone extrusion limiter, the extrusion limiter comprising a two part conical retainer positioned between packer elements and the segmented backup shoe to block packer element extrusion though spaces between backup shoe segments. In one embodiment, two split cone extrusion limiters are used together and positioned so that each split cone extrusion limiter covers gaps in the other extrusion limiter and together the two split cone extrusion limiters block packer element extrusion though gaps between backup shoe segments regardless of their orientation relative to the segmented backup shoe. In one embodiment, a solid retaining ring is positioned between a split retaining cone extrusion limiter and a packer element and resists extrusion of packer elements into spaces in the split cone extrusion limiter or limiters.

Abstract: A bridge plug having a segmented backup shoe, and at least one split cone extrusion limiter, the extrusion limiter comprising a two part conical retainer positioned between packer elements and the segmented backup shoe to block packer element extrusion though spaces between backup shoe segments. In one embodiment, two split cone extrusion limiters are used together and positioned so that each split cone extrusion limiter covers gaps in the other extrusion limiter and together the two split cone extrusion limiters block packer element extrusion though gaps between backup shoe segments regardless of their orientation relative to the segmented backup shoe. In one embodiment, a solid retaining ring is positioned between a split retaining cone extrusion limiter and a packer element and resists extrusion of packer elements into spaces in the split cone extrusion limiter or limiters.

Abstract: A slip element and a method of manufacturing same according to which two or more inserts are placed in corresponding openings formed in a body member. The material forming the insert in one of the openings is stronger than the material forming the insert in another of the openings.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for evaluating a radiograph, such as an X-ray being diagnosed for chiropractic treatment. The apparatus includes a scanner, a monitor, a central processing unit, user interface equipment, a laser printer and a modem. The X-ray is scanned by the scanner that generates a series of binary values for each segment of the X-ray and representing the relative transparency of each segment. The CPU receives the binary values and constructs a bitmap corresponding to the X-ray image for display on the monitor. Then the CPU enables the user to enhance the image on the monitor to assist in extracting information related to the analysis, diagnosis and prognosis of the condition indicated by the features of the X-ray. Enhancements include increasing brightness, contrast, edge detection and histogrammic equalization. The enhanced image can be used to determine relationships among the features by their separation distance and orientation with respect to each other.