BALL DROPPER

Abstract

A ball dropper for introducing a ball into a wellbore can include a housing, a first tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet of the first tube is coupled to the housing, a second tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the second tube is coupled to the housing, and an insert moveably coupled with the housing and adapted for receiving at least a portion of a ball. An actuator can be adapted to move the insert from a first position for receiving a ball to a second position for disposing the ball in ball dropping communication with the second tube.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No. 62/739,228 filed Sep. 30, 2018, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of oilfield equipment; and more specifically relates to devices for introducing a ball, e.g., a drop ball, into a wellbore for activating or deactivating ball-operated equipment.

2. General Background

When exploring and completing a subterranean well for the production of oil and/or gas from underground reservoirs, several types of tubulars may be placed downhole as part of the drilling, exploration and completions process. These tubulars can include casing, tubing, pipes, liners and the like, and various types of downhole tools and other devices can be moved into or out of a wellbore by or within such tubulars.

Various types of downhole equipment can be activated and/or deactivated by balls that are dropped downhole for cooperating with such equipment. For example, a ball can be dropped from the earth's surface down through a tubular onto a seat having a diameter less than the diameter of the dropped ball. An increase in the pumped pressure can cause some element of the downhole equipment to be actuated. In general, such actuation may include actions such as the movement of a sleeve, the opening or closing of a port, the movement of a valve, the fracturing of a frangible disk, the release of elastomeric plugs, the control of downhole packers, etc. In at least some cases, the insertion of a ball into a wellbore can expose individuals to an increased risk of danger, such as by calling for workers to climb atop elevated equipment or to perform tasks in the vicinity of heavy equipment, highly pressurized fluid conduits and the like. Thus, controlled dropping of one or more balls into a wellbore can be very important, as can be minimizing the risk of injury to personnel in doing so.

The present disclosure is directed to new and useful devices, systems and methods for introducing a ball, e.g., a drop ball, into a wellbore for cooperation with ball-operated equipment.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper for introducing a ball into a wellbore can include a housing, a first tube having an inlet and an outlet and a second tube having an inlet and an outlet. The outlet of the first tube can be in ball flow communication with the housing. The inlet of the second tube can be in ball flow communication with the housing. An insert can be adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball and can be moveably disposed within the housing for moving the ball among one or more positions. An actuator can be in actuating communication with the insert, which can but need not include being coupled to the housing. An actuator can be adapted to move an insert from one position for receiving or coupling with a ball to another position for dropping or uncoupling with the ball and/or vice versa.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper for introducing a ball into a wellbore according to the disclosure can include a housing, a first tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet of the first tube is coupled to the housing, a second tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the second tube is coupled to the housing, an insert moveably disposed within the housing, wherein the insert comprises at least one opening adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball, and an actuator coupled to the housing. The actuator can be adapted to move the insert from a first position to a second position, wherein the at least one opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube in the first position, and the at least one opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the actuator can be a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, a manual actuator or a combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the insert is biased toward the first position.

In at least one embodiment, an insert can include a plurality of openings, each of which can be adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball. Two or more of a plurality of openings can be of the same or different sizes. Two or more openings can be disposed next to one another or otherwise relative to one another. Two or more openings can be at least partially parallel or at least generally or substantially parallel to one another. In at least one embodiment, an insert of the present disclosure can include one or more ends or sides, two or more of which can be adapted to couple with or otherwise cooperate with one or more actuators. In at least one embodiment, an insert can be slideably disposed within or otherwise movably coupled with a housing or other support structure. In at least one embodiment, an insert can be removably coupled to an actuator or a portion thereof.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper can include a plurality of openings through an insert, one or more of which can be adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball. A plurality of openings can include a first opening and a second opening and/or other openings. An actuator can be adapted to move one or more inserts among or between a plurality of positions, such as from a first position to a second position or vice versa. Such positions can include a position wherein a first opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube. Such positions can include a position wherein a first opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube. An actuator can be adapted to move an insert from a position wherein a second opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube to a position wherein the second opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a funnel coupled to the outlet of the second tube. A funnel can be adapted for coupling with or supporting coupling with a wellhead or other structure or equipment for receiving a ball from a ball dropper according to the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper can include a funnel indicator adapted to indicate when the ball dropper is coupled to a wellhead or other device, such as a tubular coupled to a wellhead (whether directly, indirectly or otherwise). In at least one embodiment, a funnel indicator can include a strike plate disposed within the funnel and an indicator arm disposed at least partially outside of the funnel. A funnel indicator can be moveably coupled to a funnel or other portion of a ball dropper. In at least one embodiment, a strike plate can be coupled to a funnel with one or more biasing devices adapted to bias the strike plate in one or more directions, such as toward or away from an outlet of a second tube or otherwise.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a ball drop indicator coupled to one or more tubes and adapted to indicate when a ball passes through at least a portion of a tube. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a hanger coupled to at least one of the first tube, the second tube, the housing and a combination thereof, wherein the hanger comprises a support member coupled to a frame. In at least one embodiment, the frame can include a longitudinal axis and one or more tubes can be biased toward or in alignment with the axis of the frame. In at least one embodiment, the hanger can be moveably coupled to or relative to the housing. In at least one embodiment, the hanger can be directly or indirectly coupled to the housing with at least one of a cable, a support arm and a spring. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a mount and one or more support members adapted to couple to the mount. In at least one embodiment, the mount can be adapted to couple to a latch tool or quick latch tool.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include one or more adapters for reducing or otherwise changing at least a portion of a ball flow path through a ball dropper or portion thereof. For example, one or more adapters can be adapted for coupling with a first tube, a second tube or an insert for reducing an internal dimension of at least a portion thereof, such as for facilitating cooperation with balls of different sizes. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper can include a control system and/or a monitoring system, which can include one or more sensors, indicators, consoles, lights, alarms, switches and other monitoring or control components coupled to or in operative communication with a ball dropper or a component of a ball dropper, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper according to the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the ball dropper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional schematic view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having an insert in one position according to the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional schematic view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having an insert in another position according to the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having a funnel and a funnel indicator according to the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having a ball drop indicator according to the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another of many embodiments of a ball dropper according to the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the ball dropper of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper console according to the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The Figures described above and the written description of specific structures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope of what Applicants have invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the Figures and written description are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the inventions for which patent protection is sought. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all features of a commercial embodiment of the present disclosure are necessarily described or shown for the sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill in this art will also appreciate that the development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the present disclosure will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, and likely are not limited to, compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related and other constraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location and from time to time. While a developer's efforts might be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would be, nevertheless, a routine undertaking for those of skill in this art having benefit of this disclosure. It must be understood that the embodiments disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms.

The use of a singular term, such as, but not limited to, “a,” is not intended as limiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms, such as, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” “down,” “up,” “side,” “first,” “second” and the like are used in the written description for clarity in specific reference to the Figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions or the appended claims. The terms “including” and “such as” are illustrative and not limitative. The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “coupling,” “coupler,” and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, communicating, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectly with intermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together and can further include without limitation integrally forming one functional member with another in a unity fashion. The coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally. The term “can” as used herein means “can but need not” unless otherwise indicated. The terms “and” and “or” as used herein mean “and/or” unless otherwise indicated.

Applicants have created new and useful devices, systems and methods for introducing one or more balls into a wellbore, such as for activating, deactivating or otherwise cooperating with ball-operated equipment. Examples of such balls include, but are not limited to, drop balls, frac balls, packer balls or other balls, bars, darts, plugs, and the like. While such balls typically can be round or spherical, that need not be the case and balls of other shapes are possible. In general, a ball is used downhole to activate or deactivate a ball-operated device or to otherwise perform a useful function. In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many, a ball dropper according to the present disclosure can include one or more tubes and an actuator for introducing a ball into a wellbore. A ball dropper according to the present disclosure can at least partially prevent or reduce human participation during ball introduction into a wellbore, including by way of at least partially minimizing the need for an individual to be present in an elevated man basket or other potentially hazardous location. Consequently, the devices, systems and methods of the present disclosure provide for safer, faster and more cost-effective ball dropping operations.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper according to the disclosure. FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the ball dropper of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional schematic view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having an insert in one position according to the disclosure. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional schematic view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having an insert in another position according to the disclosure. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having a funnel and a funnel indicator according to the disclosure. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper having a ball drop indicator according to the disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another of many embodiments of a ball dropper according to the disclosure. FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the ball dropper of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a ball dropper console according to the disclosure. FIGS. 1-9 will be described in conjunction with one another.

In at least one embodiment, a system 10 according to the disclosure, such as a ball dropper system, can include one or more balls 12 and one or more ball droppers 100 for introducing one or more balls 12 into a wellbore. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper 100 according to the disclosure can include a housing 101 for at least partially housing, enclosing or otherwise supporting one or more other components of ball dropper 100 and/or of a system 10 including ball dropper 100. Ball dropper 100 can include one or more tubes, such as pipes or other conduits, coupled to housing 101, such as for routing a ball into, out of or otherwise relative to housing 101. For example, ball dropper 100 can include a first tube 102 having an inlet 104 and an outlet 106 and adapted for loading or otherwise disposing a ball at least partially into housing 101 and a second tube 108 having an inlet 110 and an outlet 112 and adapted for routing a ball from housing 101 to a wellbore. In at least one embodiment, one or more of tubes 102, 108 can have one or more additional inlets and/or outlets (not shown), such as for receiving balls from and/or routing balls to a plurality of locations, whether separately, collectively, simultaneously or otherwise. A ball 12 can be routed into a wellbore directly or indirectly via other operation equipment coupled to a wellbore, such as conduits, valves, Christmas trees, pressure control equipment or other well components. A system 10 can include one or more of such components (not shown) and one or more ball droppers 100 coupled to or adapted to be coupled to one or more of such components, which may be or include any oilfield equipment now known or future developed and capable of facilitating or otherwise allowing travel of a ball 12 from ball dropper 100 to or into a wellbore (or vice versa).

In at least one embodiment, first tube 102 can have an outlet 106 fluidically coupled to housing 101 and second tube 108 can have an inlet 110 fluidically coupled to housing 101 for allowing a ball 12 to travel through first tube 102, into housing 101, out of housing 101, into second tube 108 and out of second tube 108, selectively, controllably or otherwise. Inlet 104 of first tube 102 can be adapted for receiving a ball 12 manually, automatically or otherwise, which can include receiving one or more balls 12 before ball dropper 100 is coupled in ball-dropping communication with a wellbore or otherwise positioned for ball dropping. One or both of first tube 102 and second tube 108 can be or include a single conduit or ball path. However, this need not be the case and, in at least one embodiment, one or more of first and second tubes 102, 108 can include a plurality of tube sections or portions coupled with one another, whether end to end or otherwise.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more inserts 114, such as a holder or guide, for moving or at least partially supporting movement of a ball 12 between or among one or more positions. Insert 114 can be moveably associated with at least a portion of housing 101 (e.g., slideably), which can include being at least partially disposed within the housing or a portion thereof. Insert 114 can include one or more openings 115, such as a hole, through hole, slot, gap or other space, for receiving or otherwise cooperating with at least a portion of one or more balls 12 for being disposed in a wellbore. For example, insert 114 can have a position, such as a first, second or other position, wherein an opening 115 is in communication with outlet 106 of first tube 102 for receiving a ball 12 from first tube 102 into insert 114 or opening 115 and another position, such as a first, second or other position, wherein the opening 115 is in communication with inlet 110 of second tube 108 for disposing ball 12 from insert 114 or opening 115 into inlet 110 of second tube 108. Housing 101 can be adapted for allowing insert 114 to travel between or among such positions, which can include being sized for allowing at least a portion of insert 114 to travel past second tube 108 (e.g., to the left of second tube 108 as shown in the exemplary orientation of FIGS. 3-4).

Accordingly, opening 115 can be shaped and sized for receiving at least a portion of one or more balls 12, which can include any shape and size according to an implementation of the disclosure. For example, ball dropper 100 can be adapted for use with balls 12 having diameters or other major dimensions of from 1.5 inches to 3 inches, or larger or smaller. In general, ball dropper 100 can be adapted for use with any size ball 12 corresponding to the requirements of a ball-operated device with which ball dropper 100 may be utilized according to an implementation of the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, opening 115 can be cylindrical and can have a diameter equal to or greater than a corresponding ball 12, which can be or include a ball 12 having any diameter or other dimension according to an implementation of the disclosure. In such an embodiment, which is but one of many, insert 114 can have a height equal to or greater than a height or other dimension of ball 12. However, this need not be the case and numerous other configurations of insert 114 are possible. For example, insert 114 can be shorter than ball 12, which can be or include any dimension that supports holding and movement of ball 12 among one or more positions within housing 101 or otherwise according to the disclosure. For instance, in at least one embodiment, insert 114 or a portion thereof can have a height in the range of 10-90 percent of a corresponding ball height, such as in the range of 20-80 percent or 30-60 percent of a corresponding ball height. Embodiments of ball dropper 100 having an insert 114 height less than 10% or greater than 90% are also possible.

As another example, opening 115 can be or include a shape other than cylindrical. For instance, opening 115 can have a cross-sectional shape such as triangular, square or another shape. Further, opening 115 can but need not be or include a though hole. For example, in at least one embodiment, opening 115 can be or include a partial opening or cavity, such as a semispherical or otherwise shaped receptacle for holding a ball 12 in one or more positions. As yet another example, in at least one embodiment, insert 114 can have a height less than a height of ball 12 and opening 115 can have a major dimension smaller than a major dimension of ball 12. Further, in at least one embodiment, opening 115 can have or include tapered walls (e.g., from top to bottom) for receiving and holding at least a portion of a ball 12, such as by way of being funnel shaped, which can but need not include being or including a through opening in insert 114.

In at least one embodiment, including but not limited to an embodiment having an insert 114 with a height less than a height of ball 12, housing 101 can include one or more windows 116, such as an opening or other transparent (or at least semi-transparent) viewing area, for allowing a user to see at least a portion of the interior 118 of housing 101 during operation of ball dropper 100. For example, a window 116 can be disposed in an end 120 or other portion of housing 101, such as the top, bottom, or one or more sides, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, one or more windows 116 can advantageously allow for a user to visually confirm whether a ball 12 is present in housing 101 or insert 114, such as to verify successful loading of a ball 12 from first tube 102 into insert 114 or successful drop or passage of a ball 12 from insert 114 into second tube 108. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or windows 116 in one or more other portions of ball dropper 100, such as first tube 102 or second tube 108 (see, e.g., FIGS. 6-7).

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include an insert 114 having a plurality of openings 115 of the same or different sizes, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. For example, insert 114 can be adapted for cooperating with balls 12 of different sizes, which can include separately, optionally or simultaneously. As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3-4, which is but one of many, in at least one embodiment, insert 114 can include one opening 115 having a diameter or other major dimension d1 and one or more other openings 115 having one or more respective diameters or other major dimensions d2 (et seq.). In at least one embodiment, dimensions d1 and d2 can be the same. In at least one embodiment, dimensions d1 and d2 can be different, such as for optionally being used for balls 12 of different sizes or dimensions. For example, in at least one embodiment, insert 114 can be removably and reversibly or otherwise changeably coupled with housing 101 and/or one or more other components of ball dropper 100 (e.g., actuator 128 further described below) and can have a first opening 115 of dimension d1 and a second opening 115 of dimension d2. Insert 114 can have a position wherein the first opening 115 is operable to receive a ball 12 of a size corresponding to dimension d1 and another position wherein the second opening 115 is operable to receive a ball 12 of a size corresponding to dimension d2. In this manner, a user can optionally configure ball dropper 100 for cooperating with balls 12 of different sizes as needed or desired for an implementation of the disclosure, such as by reversing or otherwise changing the position of insert 114 relative to housing 101 or another component of ball dropper 100.

Similarly, in at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more adapters 122, such as a tube insert or reducer, for reducing or otherwise adapting a ball flow path in a tube or portion thereof for a ball of a particular size, which can be any size according to an implementation or application of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, for example, ball dropper 100 can be adapted for cooperating with balls 12 of different sizes and ball dropper 100 can include one or more adapters 122 for changing an internal diameter of at least a portion of one or more tubes or other ball paths, such as first tube 102, second tube 108 or one or more openings 115 in insert 114, for cooperating with or better cooperating with one or more ball sizes according to an implementation of the disclosure. For instance, in at least one embodiment, first tube 102 can have an internal dimension d3 that can define or limit the maximum ball size that can pass through first tube 102 according to an implementation of the disclosure, which can be any ball size, such as an internal dimension at least slightly larger than such maximum ball size. While a relatively smaller ball 12 may also pass through a first tube 102 having internal dimension d3, in at least some cases it can be advantageous to at least partially limit lateral movement of a ball 12 within first tube 102 (e.g., for helping ensure accurate delivery of ball 12 to housing 101 or insert 114) and adapter 122 can be coupled to first tube 102 for at least partially reducing the gap or size difference between an exterior dimension of a ball 12 and internal dimension d3.

As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, in at least one embodiment, adapter 122 can be or include an adapter tube 124 adapted to be disposed at least partially within first tube 102 and having an internal dimension d4 adapted for use with a relatively smaller ball 12 in comparison to internal dimension d3 of first tube 102. Adapter tube 124 can but need not have a length greater than or equal to the length of first tube 102. In at least one embodiment, adapter 122 can include a coupler 126, such as a flange, cross-piece, shoulder or stop (which can but need not be or include one or more fasteners) for supporting coupling of adapter 122 or adapter tube 124 to first tube 102. For example, in at least one embodiment, adapter 122 can be disposed in first tube 102 and held in place by gravity and coupler 126 can be a structure larger than internal dimension d3 or otherwise adapted for preventing or limiting an extent to which adapter tube 124 can be disposed into first tube 102. As another example, in at least one embodiment, coupler 126 can be or include a mechanical fastener or mechanical fastening means (e.g., threads, pins, quarter-turn locking connections, flanges configured to be bolted or screwed together) for more securely fixing adapter 122 in place relative to first tube 102.

While adapter 122 has heretofore been described with reference to cooperation with first tube 102, in at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more adapters 122 for similarly cooperating with one or more other components of ball dropper 100, such as insert 114 or second tube 108. For example, ball dropper 100 can include one or more adapters 122 for coupling with second tube 108 to reduce an internal dimension d5 along all or a portion thereof. As another example, bd 100 can include one or more adapters 122 for coupling with insert 114 to reduce an internal dimension d1, d2 along all or a portion of one or more openings 115. In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include a plurality of adapters 122 of different sizes, such as a kit or set of interchangeable adapters 122, for optionally configuring an implementation of ball dropper 100 to cooperate with one or more different ball sizes as may be needed or desired during well operations.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more actuators 128 for moving one or more inserts 114 between or among one or more positions, such as one or more positions relative to housing 101 or tubes 102, 108 for receiving or dropping a ball 12. Actuator 128 can be coupled to or relative to housing 101 in one or more positions and, in at least one embodiment, can include both static and dynamic components, such as an actuator housing and/or mechanism 130 for moving an actuator arm 132 or other movable actuation component between or among one or more positions. For example, ball dropper 100 can include one or more actuator supports 134, such as a plate, cage, platform or mount, coupled to one or more other components of ball dropper 100 for holding actuator 128 in one or more operable positions relative thereto. Actuator support 134 can but need not be a portion or component of housing 101. In at least one embodiment, actuator support 134 can be sized and arranged for having actuator 128 coupled thereto removably or otherwise, such as by way of one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, etc.). Actuator support 134 can but need not at least partially enclose actuator 128, such as for protection from one or more potentially damaging conditions of a surrounding environment (e.g., water, temperature, contaminants, moving equipment, etc.).

Actuator 128 can be adapted for selectively moving insert 114 among one or more positions, such as a first or other position for disposing an opening 115 in ball receiving communication with first tube 102 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) and a second or other position for disposing opening 115 in ball dropping communication with second tube 108 (see, e.g., FIG. 4), such as for introducing a ball 12 into second tube 108. Insert 114 can be coupled to actuator 128 or a portion thereof, such as actuator arm 132, for supporting such movement, directly, indirectly or otherwise. For example, in at least one embodiment, insert 114 can have one or more ends 136 (or sides, etc.) adapted for coupling with an actuating end 138 of actuator arm 132, whether removably or otherwise. Insert 114 can be coupled or couplable with actuator arm 132 in any manner according to an implementation of the disclosure, such as threadably, via one or more fasteners, or otherwise. For instance, one or more ends 136 of insert 114 can include female threads and actuating end 138 of actuator arm 132 can include male threads and actuator 114 can be threaded onto actuator arm 132 in or to one or more linearly fixed actuating positions relative to actuating end 138. In other words, by rotating insert 114 one direction or another (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise), insert 114 can be adjustably positioned relative to one or more components of actuator 128, which can help dispose insert 114 in a position for proper alignment with tubes 102, 108 during ball dropping operations. Mating threads are but one example of many possible structures for coupling insert 114 and actuator 128; any manner of coupling can be used according to an implementation of the disclosure. In such embodiments, insert 114 can but need not be adapted for coupling with actuator 128 prior to being disposed in housing 101, such as for allowing insert 114 and actuator 128 to be positioned relative to and coupled to housing 101 and/or one or more other components (e.g., actuator support 134) as a single unit. However, this need not be the case and, in at least one embodiment, one or both of insert 114 and actuator 128 can be adapted for coupling with housing 101 and/or actuator support 134 prior to being coupled with one another.

As another example, in at least one embodiment, insert 114 need not be attached to actuator 128 in a temporarily or otherwise fixed manner. For example, insert 114 can be slideably disposed in or otherwise moveably coupled to housing 101 and ball dropper 100 can include one or more springs (not shown) or other biasing devices for biasing insert 114 in one or more directions, such as toward actuator 128. For instance, one or more springs can be disposed between insert 114 and a barrier 140 within housing 101 or, e.g., at end 120 of housing 101, and actuator 128 can be adapted for pushing insert 114 against the force of such a biasing device during actuation, which force can be sufficient to return insert 114 to one or more positions (e.g., in alignment with first tube 102) following actuation. In such an embodiment, and in other embodiments, barrier 140 or end 120 of housing 101 can be at least partially open or openable for allowing access to insert 114, whether for maintenance or otherwise. In at least one embodiment, barrier 140 can be at least partially removable or openable, such as by way of being or including a hinged door or a removable cover, and insert 114 and/or one or more other components of ball dropper 100 can be disposed in or removed from housing 101 via end 120. Insert 114 can be adapted for coupling with actuator 128 in more than one manner, which can include having a plurality of sides or other portions adapted for optionally coupling with actuator 128. For example, insert 114 can be reversible or otherwise configurable to couple to actuator 128 in a plurality of positions corresponding to a plurality of different ball moving configurations, such as configurations wherein one or more openings 115 can be positioned for ball dropping cooperation with first and second tubes 102, 108 and one or more other openings 115 are optionally positionable for ball dropping cooperation with first and second tubes 102, 108, such as by adjusting or repositioning insert 114 relative to actuator 128.

Actuator 128 can be or include any type of actuator according to an implementation of the disclosure, whether now known or future developed. For example, in at least one embodiment, an actuator can be or include at least one of a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, a manual actuator and a combination thereof. For instance, in at least one embodiment, actuator 128 can include one or more cylinders and one or more pistons adapted for moving actuator arm 132 via cooperation with a hand pump or other pump. As other examples, actuator 128 can be electrically controlled, electronically controlled, electro-hydraulically controlled or electro-pneumatically controlled, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In such embodiments, which are but some of many, ball dropper 100 and/or system 10 can include any type and number of system control and/or monitoring components according to an implementation of the disclosure, such as, but not limited to, one or more wires, lines, hoses, controllers, control panels, consoles, user interfaces, displays, software programs, junction boxes, software applications (or “apps”), wired and/or wireless communication equipment such as transmitters and receivers, gauges, pumps, compressors, valves, switches, lights or other visual indicators, audible indicators, alarms and the like. As another example, ball dropper 100 and/or system 10 can include one or more cameras configured for monitoring one or more portions of ball dropper 100, such as the interior of one or more of housing 101 and first and second tubes 102, 108.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include a funnel 144, such as guide or alignment structure, for guiding or otherwise supporting coupling of ball dropper 100 to a wellhead or other equipment in ball dropping communication with a wellbore. For example, funnel 144 can be coupled to outlet 112 of second tube 108 and can be adapted to couple to equipment for receiving one or more balls 12 from ball dropper 100, which can include by way of aligning ball dropper 100 with one or more other components or at least partially resisting misalignment of ball dropper 100 with one or more of such components. In at least one embodiment, funnel 144 can be relatively larger at the bottom and can have a cross-sectional area that decreases (constantly or otherwise) from bottom to top for guiding or aligning outlet 112 into ball dropping communication or position with ball receiving equipment, for example, as ball dropper 100 is lowered onto such equipment. Funnel 144 can have any cross-sectional shape(s) and size(s) according to an implementation of the disclosure, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. As other examples, funnel 144 can have solid, continuous sides or, in at least one embodiment, can be comprised of a plurality of portions, segments or arms.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more funnel indicators 146 for indicating when ball dropper 100 is coupled to a wellhead or otherwise positioned for dropping a ball. In at least one embodiment, funnel indicator 146 can be or include a mechanical indicator, which can include having a strike plate (not shown) disposed within or otherwise coupled to funnel 144 and one or more funnel indicator arms 148 disposed at least partially outside of or otherwise viewable from outside of funnel 144. One or more funnel indicator arms 148 or portions thereof can be moveably coupled to the strike plate and can be adapted to rotate to an upwardly oriented or other position or to otherwise provide a visual indication of a successful coupling or other positioning of ball dropper 100 with or relative to equipment for receiving a ball 12 from ball dropper 100. In at least one embodiment, indicator 146 can include one or more biasing devices (not shown), such as one or more springs or other biasing components, adapted to bias the strike plate or one or more funnel indicator arms 148 in one or more directions or toward one or more positions, such as away from outlet 112 of second tube 108 or otherwise toward a default or rest position, such as for indicating that ball dropper 100 is in an uncoupled or other position relative to a wellhead or other equipment. For instance, in at least one embodiment, the strike plate of indicator 146 can be or include an annular ring or plate, such as a washer, disposed at least generally horizontally within funnel 144 and having a through opening aligned with outlet 122 of second tube 108 for allowing a ball 12 to pass therethrough during ball dropper operations. In such an embodiment, which is but one of many, the strike plate can be coupled to the top of funnel 144 with one or more springs there between for biasing the strike plate and one or more indicator arms 148 toward a rest position (see, e.g., FIG. 5). Upon being coupled to equipment for receiving a ball from ball dropper 100, the strike plate can be urged upwardly against the force of the spring(s) and can cause one or more indicator arms 148 to rotate upwardly or outwardly or to otherwise move to an indicating position.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more other indicators, such as a ball drop indicator 150 for indicating when a ball 12 travels or has traveled by one or more locations or positions (e.g., along one or more of tubes 102, 108). For example, ball dropper 100 can include a ball drop indicator 150 coupled to second tube 108 and adapted to indicate when a ball passes by indicator 150 or through at least a portion of second tube 108. In at least one embodiment, indicator 150 can be or include a mechanical indicator, which can include having a strike plate (not shown) for contact with a passing ball 12 and an indicator arm 152 rotatably or otherwise movably coupled to, e.g., second tube 108 (see, e.g., FIG. 6) such that arm 152 provides a visual indication of a ball 12 passing or having passed thereby. Similarly, to funnel indicator 146, ball drop indicator 150 can be biased toward a default or rest position, such as via one or more springs (not shown). One or more ball drop indicators 150 can be disposed anywhere along a ball flow path through ball dropper 100 (e.g., from inlet 104 to outlet 112) according to an implementation of the disclosure.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include structure for supporting one or more other components of ball dropper 100 and/or a system 10 comprising ball dropper 100. For example, ball dropper 100 can include a hanger 154 for hanging, suspending or otherwise supporting at least a portion of ball dropper 100 in one or more positions. In at least one embodiment, hanger 154 can be or include one or more support members coupled to at least one of first tube 102, second tube 108, housing 101 and actuator support 134, separately or in combination with one another and/or one or more other ball dropper components. In at least one embodiment, hanger 154 can include one or more support members 156, such as arms, tubes or beams, coupled to a frame 158 for holding one or more other ball dropper components. Frame 158 can include any type or number of frame members 160, 162 according to an implementation of the disclosure, such as one or more frame members 160, 162 oriented horizontally, vertically, at one or more angles or otherwise. Frame 158 can but need not at least partially surround one or more other components of ball dropper 100, which can help protect such components from damage due to, e.g., accidental contact with other equipment and the like.

Frame 158 can be coupled to one or more other ball dropper components in any manner according to an implementation of the disclosure, whether rigidly, movably or otherwise, in whole or in part. For example, ball dropper 100 can include one or more attachment points 164, such as tabs, ears, boxes, brackets or other couplers, and one or more frame members 160, 162 or other portions of frame 158 can be coupled thereto, directly, indirectly or otherwise. One or more attachments points 164 can be coupled to any component or components of ball dropper 100, including but not limited to one or more of tubes 102, 108 and housing 101, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. Such coupling can but need not include the use of one or more mechanical fasteners 166, such as screws, bolts, clevises, pins, rings and the like, whether separately or in combination with one another or with or more other couplers or couplings (e.g., welded joints). Frame 158 can include one or more axes, such as a central longitudinal or other axis X (see, e.g., FIGS. 3-4). In at least one embodiment, one or more other ball dropper components, such as one or more of tubes 102, 108 or housing 101, can be aligned with or relative to axis X or, as another example, biased toward alignment with axis X or a position relative to axis X, which can be or include any position according to an implementation of the disclosure. For example, in at least one embodiment, one or more components of ball dropper 100 can be biased toward a position providing some distance or gap between frame 158 and one or more other components of ball dropper 100 or a system 10 comprising ball dropper 100, such as for at least partially helping protect such components from damage. As another example, one or more components of ball dropper 100 can be biased toward a position of axial alignment with axis X or, for instance, a position wherein a center of gravity of ball dropper 100 can be disposed along or near axis X for helping stabilize ball dropper 100.

In at least one embodiment, hanger 154 and one or more other components of ball dropper 100, including but not limited to one or more of tubes 102, 108 and housing 101, can be moveably and/or adjustably coupled to one another, such as for allowing tubes 102, 108 and housing 101 to move relative to hanger 154 in one or more directions. For example, in at least one embodiment, hanger 154 can be coupled to one or more attachment points 164 and/or other ball dropper components with one or more relatively rigid couplers 168 (e.g., in terms of tension or otherwise), such as a cable, chain, rope or support arm, and one or more biasing devices 170, such as a spring or coil, which can allow at least some movement of tubes 102, 108 and/or housing 101 relative to frame 158 while nonetheless biasing tubes 102, 108 and/or housing 101 toward a central or default position. Such an arrangement can allow for at least some leeway or margin of error during alignment or coupling of ball dropper 100 with equipment for receiving a ball 12 from ball dropper 100.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more mounts 172, such as a bracket, base, receiver, hitch or other coupler, adapted for coupling with one or more other components of ball dropper 100 to hold ball dropper 100 in one or more positions, such as during use or when not in use. For instance, one or more mounts 172 can be adapted for coupling with hanger 154 or a component thereof, such as a support member 156. In at least one embodiment, mount 172 can be adapted for coupling with other equipment or structures, such as for removably or otherwise coupling ball dropper 100 thereto. For example, mount 172 can be adapted for coupling ball dropper 100 to an oil well latch tool or quick latch tool 174 (see FIG. 7) or other well equipment, such as for storing ball dropper 100 when not in use or, as other examples, for facilitating lifting, placement and/or operation of ball dropper 100, such as with a crane or other lift, or facilitating use or cooperation of ball dropper 100 with other types of tools or equipment for well operations. In at least one embodiment, which is but one of many, mount 172 can include one or more bolt holes (not shown) in a pattern that matches all or a portion of a bolt pattern on one or more other devices, such as latch tool 174, and mount 172 can be coupled thereto and/or to another component of ball dropper 100, such as support member 156, via one or more fasteners 176 (e.g., bolts, pins, etc.). Once again, this is but one of many possible mounting configurations for ball dropper 100 that may be convenient or advantageous in one or more implementations of the disclosure and ball dropper 100 can alternatively (or collectively) be configured to couple with other well equipment in any manner required or desired for an implementation of the disclosure. As another example, in at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can be free standing, such as by way of resting on funnel 144 or another base (e.g., legs or a stand) when not in use. As yet another example, ball dropper 100 can in at least one embodiment include one or more attachment points 164 on first tube 102, hanger 154 and/or elsewhere adapted for serving as lift points for coupling with a crane, hoist or other lift for moving ball dropper 100 into and/or out of ball dropping position with a wellbore or other well equipment.

Whether separately or in combination with one or more of mechanical indicators 146, 150 described above, ball dropper 100 can, in at least one embodiment, include one or more other indicators, such as electrical or electronic indicators, and/or one or more other components for controlling and/or monitoring one of more aspects of ball dropper 100. For example, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 7-8, which is but one of many, ball dropper 100 can include one or more ball sensors 178 for sensing or otherwise detecting the presence or passing of a ball 12 thereby, such as the dropping of a ball through second tube 108 or a portion thereof. As another example, ball dropper 100 can include one or more funnel sensors 180 for sensing or otherwise detecting proper coupling or other positioning of ball dropper 100 for ball dropping operations. Sensors 178, 180 can be or include any type of sensor according to an implementation of the disclosure, such as switches, limit switches, optical sensors, proximity sensors or other sensors. Sensors 178, 180 can be arranged to sense one or more events or conditions individually or, as another example, collectively in cooperation with one or more other sensors or indicators, including but not limited to one or more of indicators 146, 150. In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more indicator lights 182, such as an incandescent, LED or other light, for visually indicating one or more events or conditions, for example, by turning on, turning off, changing colors, changing patterns, or otherwise. For example, one or more indicator lights can be adapted for indicating ball drop, no ball drop, ball drop position, no ball drop position, or any other aspect of operation of ball dropper 100, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.

In at least one embodiment, ball dropper 100 can include one or more consoles 184, such as a control box, monitoring station or other user interface, for controlling or monitoring one or more aspects of ball dropper 100 or ball dropper 100 operations. Console 184 can be coupled in wired and/or wireless communication with one or more of sensors 178, 180 and indicator light 182 and can be adapted for indicating one or more events or conditions to a user and/or for allowing a user to at least partially control one or more aspects of ball dropper 100 (which can, but need not, include controlling operation of actuator 128). Such coupling can but need not include one or more junction boxes 186 for housing electrical connections and the like. For example, console 184 can include one or more visual indicators, such as a ball light 188 for indicating the presence, absence or other disposition of a ball 12 or a funnel light 190 for indicating a state of being or not being in a ball dropping position. As another example, console 184 can include one or more audible indicators (e.g., speakers, buzzers, alarms, etc.), such as a ball alarm 192 for indicating one or more events or conditions to a user, such as the occurrence or upcoming occurrence of a ball drop or, for instance, the existence of an error or of a condition preventing ball drop. As yet another example, console 184 can include one or more switches, such as a test switch 194, for allowing a user to test one or more aspects of ball dropper 100 or a components thereof, such as to verify the existence of power or the proper functioning of one or more indicators. In at least one embodiment, one or more switches can be adapted for actuating actuator 128. In at least one embodiment, console 184 can be relatively more complex than the exemplary embodiment shown in the Figures. For instance, console 184 can be or include a computer, smartphone, tablet or the like that comprises or has access to a software program or non-transitory computer readable media having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to operate or cease operation of one of more aspects of ball dropper 100 or a component(s) thereof, including, but not limited to actuator 128, sensors 178, 180, indicators 182, 188, 190 and alarm 192. Console 184 can be coupled to ball dropper 100 or another component thereof in any manner, and can be disposed in any location relative thereto, according to an implementation of the disclosure. For example, in at least one embodiment, console 184 can be disposed on another component of ball dropper 100 itself or on a piece of equipment to which ball dropper 100 can be coupled (e.g., latch tool 174). As another example, in at least one embodiment, console 184 can be disposed remotely from, e.g., housing 101 and tubes 102, 108, which can include being elsewhere on a well location or otherwise.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper for introducing a ball into a wellbore according to the disclosure can include a housing, a first tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet of the first tube is coupled to the housing, a second tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the second tube is coupled to the housing, an insert moveably disposed within the housing, wherein the insert comprises at least one opening adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball, and an actuator coupled to the housing. The actuator can be adapted to move the insert from a first position to a second position, wherein the at least one opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube in the first position, and the at least one opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the actuator can be a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, a manual actuator or a combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the insert is biased toward the first position.

In at least one embodiment, an insert can include a plurality of openings, each of which can be adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball. Two or more of a plurality of openings can be of the same or different sizes. Two or more openings can be disposed next to one another or otherwise relative to one another. Two or more openings can be at least partially parallel or at least generally or substantially parallel to one another. In at least one embodiment, an insert of the present disclosure can include one or more ends or sides, two or more of which can be adapted to couple with or otherwise cooperate with one or more actuators. In at least one embodiment, an insert can be slideably disposed within or otherwise movably coupled with a housing or other support structure. In at least one embodiment, an insert can be removably coupled to an actuator or a portion thereof.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper can include a plurality of openings through an insert, one or more of which can be adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball. A plurality of openings can include a first opening and a second opening and/or other openings. An actuator can be adapted to move one or more inserts among or between a plurality of positions, such as from a first position to a second position or vice versa. Such positions can include a position wherein a first opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube. Such positions can include a position wherein a first opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube. An actuator can be adapted to move an insert from a position wherein a second opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube to a position wherein the second opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a funnel coupled to the outlet of the second tube. A funnel can be adapted for coupling with or supporting coupling with a wellhead or other structure or equipment for receiving a ball from a ball dropper according to the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper can include a funnel indicator adapted to indicate when the ball dropper is coupled to a wellhead or other device, such as a tubular coupled to a wellhead (whether directly, indirectly or otherwise). In at least one embodiment, a funnel indicator can include a strike plate disposed within the funnel and an indicator arm disposed at least partially outside of the funnel. A funnel indicator can be moveably coupled to a funnel or other portion of a ball dropper. In at least one embodiment, a strike plate can be coupled to a funnel with one or more biasing devices adapted to bias the strike plate in one or more directions, such as toward or away from an outlet of a second tube or otherwise.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a ball drop indicator coupled to one or more tubes and adapted to indicate when a ball passes through at least a portion of a tube. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a hanger coupled to at least one of the first tube, the second tube, the housing and a combination thereof, wherein the hanger comprises a support member coupled to a frame. In at least one embodiment, the frame can include a longitudinal axis and one or more tubes can be biased toward or in alignment with the axis of the frame. In at least one embodiment, the hanger can be moveably coupled to or relative to the housing. In at least one embodiment, the hanger can be directly or indirectly coupled to the housing with at least one of a cable, a support arm and a spring. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include a mount and one or more support members adapted to couple to the mount. In at least one embodiment, the mount can be adapted to couple to a latch tool or quick latch tool.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper according to the disclosure can include one or more adapters for reducing or otherwise changing at least a portion of a ball flow path through a ball dropper or portion thereof. For example, one or more adapters can be adapted for coupling with a first tube, a second tube or an insert for reducing an internal dimension of at least a portion thereof, such as for facilitating cooperation with balls of different sizes. In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper can include a control system and/or a monitoring system, which can include one or more sensors, indicators, consoles, lights, alarms, switches and other monitoring or control components coupled to or in operative communication with a ball dropper or a component of a ball dropper, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.

In at least one embodiment, a ball dropper for introducing a ball into a wellbore can include a housing, a first tube having an inlet and an outlet and a second tube having an inlet and an outlet. The outlet of the first tube can be in ball flow communication with the housing. The inlet of the second tube can be in ball flow communication with the housing. An insert can be adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball and can be moveably disposed within the housing for moving the ball among one or more positions. An actuator can be in actuating communication with the insert, which can but need not include being coupled to the housing. An actuator can be adapted to move an insert from one position for receiving or coupling with a ball to another position for dropping or uncoupling with the ball and/or vice versa.

Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the inventions described above can be devised without departing from the spirit of Applicants' disclosure. For example, ball dropper 100 can be adapted for receiving, storing and/or dropping a plurality of balls or other actuation devices separately, simultaneously or otherwise, which can include selectively or alternatively and which can include balls or other devices of different shapes and/or sizes. Further, the various embodiments of the present disclosure can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed embodiments. Discussion of singular elements can include plural elements and vice-versa. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and/or split into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can be embodied as separate components or can be combined into components having multiple functions.

The present disclosure has been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments and not every embodiment of the disclosure has been described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described embodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the disclosure conceived of by the Applicants, but rather, in conformity with the patent laws, Applicants intend to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that come within the scope or range of equivalents of the following claims.

Claims

1. A ball dropper for introducing a ball into a wellbore, comprising:

a housing;

a first tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet of the first tube is coupled to the housing;

a second tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the second tube is coupled to the housing;

an insert moveably disposed within the housing, wherein the insert comprises an opening adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball; and

an actuator coupled to the housing;

wherein the actuator is adapted to move the insert from a first position wherein the opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube to a second position wherein the opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube.

2. The ball dropper of claim 1, wherein the insert comprises a plurality of openings, each of which is adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball, and wherein at least two of the plurality of openings are of different sizes.

3. The ball dropper of claim 1, wherein the insert comprises a plurality of openings, each of which is adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball, and wherein at least two of the plurality of openings are at least partially parallel to one another.

4. The ball dropper of claim 1, wherein the insert has a first end and a second end and wherein each of the first and second ends is adapted to couple with the actuator.

5. The ball dropper of claim 4, wherein the opening is a first opening and further comprising:

a second opening adapted to receive at least a portion of a ball;

wherein the actuator is adapted to move the insert from the first position wherein the first opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube to the second position wherein the first opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube when the actuator is coupled to the first end of the insert; and

wherein the actuator is adapted to move the insert from a first position wherein the second opening is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first tube to a second position wherein the second opening is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second tube when the actuator is coupled to the second end of the insert.

6. The ball dropper of claim 5, wherein the insert is slideably disposed within the housing and removably coupled to the actuator.

7. The ball dropper of claim 1, further comprising a funnel coupled to the outlet of the second tube, wherein the funnel is configured to couple to a wellhead or to a tubular coupled to a wellhead.

8. The ball dropper of claim 7, further comprising a funnel indicator configured to indicate when the ball dropper is coupled to the wellhead or the tubular.

9. The ball dropper of claim 8, wherein the funnel indicator comprises a strike plate disposed within the funnel and an indicator arm disposed at least partially outside of the funnel, and wherein the indicator arm is configured to move when the strike plate is contacted by a ball.

10. The ball dropper of claim 9, wherein the strike plate is coupled to the funnel with one or more biasing devices adapted to bias the strike plate toward a rest position.

11. The ball dropper of claim 1, further comprising a ball drop indicator coupled to the second tube and adapted to indicate when a ball passes through at least a portion of the second tube.

12. The ball dropper of claim 1, wherein the actuator is at least one of a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, a manual actuator and a combination thereof.

13. The ball dropper of claim 1, wherein the insert is biased toward the first position.

14. The ball dropper of claim 1, further comprising a hanger coupled to at least one of the first tube, the second tube, the housing and a combination thereof, wherein the hanger comprises a support member coupled to a frame.

15. The ball dropper of claim 14, wherein the hanger is moveably coupled to at least one of the first tube, the second tube, the housing and a combination thereof, and wherein at least one of the first tube, the second tube and the housing is biased toward a rest position relative to the frame.

16. The ball dropper of claim 15, further comprising at least one spring configured to bias at least one of the first tube, the second tube, the housing and a combination thereof.

17. The ball dropper of claim 14, further comprising a mount and wherein the support member is adapted to couple to the mount.

18. The ball dropper of claim 17, wherein the mount is adapted to couple to a latch tool.

19. The ball dropper of claim 1, further comprising an adapter removably coupled to at least one of the first tube, the second tube and the adapter, wherein the adapter is configured to reduce an internal dimension of at least a portion of a ball flow path through the ball dropper.

20. The ball dropper of claim 1, further comprising a control and/or monitoring system configured to initiate at least one of a visible indication and an audible indication upon the occurrence of at least one of a ball drop and the ball dropper being disposed in a ball dropping position.