USOO626718OB1

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 6,267,180 B1

Gazda et al. (45) Date of Patent: Jul. 31, 2001

(54) PACKER RELEASING TOOL AND METHOD 4,842,082 6/1989 Springer ............................. 166/98 X
FOR RELEASING A PACKER ASSEMBLY 5,074,361 12/1991 Brisco et al. ........................ 166/301
FROMAWELLBORE 5,082,062 * 1/1992 Wood et al. . 166/237 X
5,103,902 4/1992 Ross et al. ........................... 166/120
5,311,938 5/1994 Hendrickson et al. .............. 166/134
(75) Inventors: K. it. GNER." D. 5,343,954 * 9/1994 Bohlen et al. ...... 166/237 X
gOre, Lallas, s 5,641,023 6/1997 Ross et al. ........................... 166/386
Carrollton, all of TX (US) 5,692,564 12/1997 Brooks ................................. 166/127
(73) Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc., * cited by examiner
Dallas, TX (US
allas, (US) Primary Examiner-George Suchfield
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Paul I. Herman; Charles W.
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 GaineS
U.S.C. 154(b) by O dayS. (57) ABSTRACT
(21) Appl. No.: 09/139,365 The present invention provides a packer releasing tool for
releasing a packer from a wellbore where the packer is
(22) Filed: Aug. 25, 1998 coupled to a tubing String and has a releasing profile with a
(51) Int. Cl. ............................. 166/301;
(52) U.S. Cl
E21B 23.00, E21B 31/20
166/98; 166/237;
packer uphole, shoulder and a packer downhole shoulder.
The packer releasing tool preferably comprises a toplock
OX O -- O - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i66/387: 29 4/86 25 assembly removably coupled to a downlock assembly. It
s also includes a toplock key that is movably coupled to the
(58) Field of Search .............................. 166/98, 237, 301, toplock assembly and that has a toplock key profile engage
166/387; 294/86.1, 86.24, 86.25 able against the packer releasing profile. Also present is a
downlock lug that is movably coupled to the downlock
(56) References Cited assembly and that has a downlock lug profile engageable
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS against the packer releasing profile. In one embodiment, the
packer releasing tool has an outer diameter that is less than
3,746,093 : 7/1973 Mullins - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 166/237 X the inner diameter of the tubing String. This unique configu
3,851,708 12/1974 Ellis .....................................166/237
3,874,446 * 4/1975 Crowe ...
166/237
X
ti 11 th ker to b lled without thelee d of
ration allows the packer to be pulled Withou OS
first
4,438,811 3/1984 Patel ...... 1/12 removing the production string.
4,671,354 6/1987 Henderson et al. ... 166/134
4,793,411 12/1988 Zunkel ................................... 166/98 63 Claims, 12 Drawing Sheets

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U.S. Patent Jul. 31, 2001 Sheet 12 of 12 US 6,267,180 B1
 US 6,267,180 B1
1 2
PACKER RELEASING TOOLAND METHOD the top of the packer and operates the release mechanism of
FOR RELEASING A PACKER ASSEMBLY the packer. The packer is then retrieved by a tensile force
FROMA WELLBORE applied to the work String transferred to the packer at the
threaded coupling. However, the extra operation of remov
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION 5 ing the production tubing from above the packer before the
The present invention is directed, in general, to a System packer can be released and retrieved is expensive in time and
for use in a Subterranean Wellbore, and more specifically to manpower to accomplish.
a packer releasing tool and System for releasing a packer Therefore, what is needed in the art is a Slick line packer
from a wellbore. release System that Simplifies the locating, release and
retrieval of a Set packer without removing the production
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION tubing.
In the course of testing and preparing Subterranean oil and SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
gas wells for production, a well packer is run into the well
on a work String or production tubing. The packer is used: 15 To address the above-discussed deficiencies of the prior
(a) to Support the production tubing and the other comple art, the present invention provides a packer releasing tool for
tion equipment Such as filter Screens adjacent to a producing releasing a packer from a wellbore where the packer is
formation, and (b) to Seal the annulus between the outside of coupled to a tubing String and has a releasing profile with a
the production tubing and the inside of the well casing, thus packer uphole shoulder and a packer downhole shoulder. In
blocking movement of fluids through the annulus past the one embodiment, the packer releasing tool comprises a
packer location. The packer is equipped with anchor Slips toplock assembly that is movably coupled to a downlock
that have opposed camming Surfaces that cooperate with assembly and a toplock key that is movably coupled to the
complementary opposed wedging Surfaces. The anchor Slips toplock assembly and that has a toplock key profile engage
are radially extendable into gripping engagement against the able against the packer releasing profile. This embodiment
well casing bore in response to relative axial movement of 25
further includes a downlock lug that is movably coupled to
the wedging Surfaces. The packer also carries annular Seal the downlock assembly and that has a downlock lug profile
elements that are expandable radially into Sealing engage engageable against the packer releasing profile. In one
ment against the bore of the well casing in response to axial preferred embodiment, the packer releasing tool has an outer
compression forces. Hydraulic or mechanical means may be diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the tubing
used to Set the anchor SlipS and the Sealing elements. String. This unique configuration allows the packer to be
After the packer has been Set and Sealed against the well released without the need of first removing the production
casing bore, it is designed to maintain the Seal after the String.
hydraulic or mechanical Setting force is removed. It is In another embodiment, the toplock key includes an inner
absolutely essential that the packer remain locked in its Set profile and the toplock assembly further comprises a running
and Sealed configuration while withstanding hydraulic pres 35 profile configured to cooperatively engage the inner profile
Sures that may be applied from the formation and/or the and receive the toplock key therein as the packer releasing
manipulation of the tubing String and Service tools. In deep tool is run into the wellbore. In another aspect of this
Wells this may be much more difficult as the packer and its particular embodiment, the toplock assembly further com
components are Subjected to downhole temperatures as high prises a pulling profile configured to cooperatively engage
as 600 F., and downhole pressures of up to 10,000 psi. 40 the inner profile and receive the toplock key therein when
Moreover, the packer should be able to withstand the appli the packer releasing tool is pulled from the Wellbore. In
cation of external hydraulic pressures at levels up to as much another aspect of this particular embodiment, the toplock
as 10,000 psi in either direction, and still be retrievable after assembly further comprises a toplock carrier and a mandrel.
exposure for periods of 10 to 15 years or more. After such The toplock carrier is movable with respect to the mandrel,
long periods of extended Service under extreme preSSure and 45 and the toplock assembly further includes a key releasing
temperature conditions, it is desirable that the packer be Shear pin coupling the toplock carrier to the mandrel. The
retrievable from the well. Appropriate manipulation of the key releasing shear pin limits the range of motion of the
tubing String must cause the packer to be released and toplock carrier with respect to the mandrel. In yet another
unsealed from the well bore, with the anchor slips and seal aspect of this particular embodiment, the mandrel includes
elements being retracted Sufficiently to avoid Seizure against 50 a mandrel Stop shoulder and the toplock carrier includes a
well bore restrictions that are Smaller than the retracted Seal carrier shoulder configured to engage the mandrel Stop
assembly, for example, at a makeup union, collar union, shoulder and prevent a movement of the toplock carrier with
nipple, etc. respect to the mandrel. The packer releasing tool may further
Currently, permanent and retrievable packers are used for comprise a toplock assembly Spring configured to exert a
long-term placement in high temperature, high pressure 55 downhole force against the toplock carrier and move the
Wells. While So-called permanent packers exist, most are toplock carrier downhole with respect to the mandrel to
still designed to be retrievable through some form of allow the inner profile of the key to engage the pulling
manipulation to release the packer elements and anchor profile when the key releasing shear pin is sheared.
slips, with the packer then to be removed from the well bore. In another embodiment, the toplock assembly is remov
However, Since the packers are threaded into the production 60 ably coupled to the downlock assembly by an assembly
tubing and are held in firm contact with the well casing, the Shear pin. The Shear pin is preferably configured to Shear
problem of how to retrieve them occurs. Conventionally, when a Sufficient amount of force is exerted against the Shear
retrievable packers have been removed from the well by first pin, which allows the toplock assembly to Separate from the
removing all of the production tubing from a threaded joint downlock assembly.
at the top of the packer to be removed. Then, a new work 65 In another embodiment, the downlock assembly includes
String with a releasing tool attached is introduced into the a downlock lug running profile configured to cooperatively
well. The releasing tool attaches to the threaded coupling on receive the downlock lug therein as the packer releasing tool
 US 6,267,180 B1
3 4
is run into the wellbore. The toplock key profile may further The packer preferably includes packer Seals and packer
include a toplock key uphole Stop shoulder configured to Slips engageable against an inner diameter of the Wellbore.
engage the packer uphole shoulder and a toplock key The packer may also include a Snap ring and a Snap ring
downhole Stop shoulder configured to engage the packer mandrel. The Snap ring mandrel preferably has a slidable
downhole shoulder. In another embodiment, the downlock packer sleeve associated there with to maintain the Snap ring
lug profile includes a downlock lug uphole Stop shoulder in a retracted position. In a preferred embodiment, the Snap
configured to engage the packer uphole shoulder and a ring is configured to maintain the packer Seal and packer
downlock lug downhole Stop shoulder configured to engage Slips in an engaged position against the inner diameter of the
the packer downhole shoulder. wellbore when the Snap ring is in the retracted position.
In a further embodiment, the packer releasing tool com In yet another embodiment, the packer releasing tool is
prises an extension rod extending through the toplock engageable against the uphole shoulder to shift the packer
assembly and the downlock assembly. The extension rod is sleeve with respect to the Snap ring to allow the Snap ring to
movable with respect to the toplock assembly and engage move from the retracted position to a release position and
able against the downlock assembly to Separate the down allow the packer Seal and the packer Slips to disengage from
the inner diameter of the wellbore.
lock assembly from the toplock assembly. In another aspect 15
of this particular embodiment, a downhole power unit is In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method
coupled to the extension rod and is configured to exert a for releasing a packer from a wellbore is provided. The
downhole force against the downlock assembly by way of packer is coupled to a tubing String and has a packer
the extension rod. In yet another aspect of this particular releasing profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a packer
embodiment, the packer releasing tool further comprises an downhole shoulder. The method comprises the steps of
positioning a packer releasing tool within a packer posi
extension rod retainer coupled to the extension rod, a Spring tioned in a wellbore, wherein the packer releasing tool has
guide having a Spring guide shoulder and positioned about a toplock assembly removably coupled to a downlock
the extension rod retainer. The Spring guide is coupled to the assembly, engaging a toplock key profile of the toplock
downlock assembly, and the extension rod extends through assembly against the packer releasing profile, engaging a
the extension rod retainer and the Spring guide. The exten 25 downlock lug profile of the downlock assembly against the
Sion rod retainer is movable with respect to the Spring guide. packer releasing profile, and releasing the packer from the
This particular embodiment further includes a downlock wellbore.
assembly Spring wherein the downlock assembly Spring is The foregoing has outlined, rather broadly, preferred and
positioned about the Spring guide and captured between the alternative features of the present invention So that those
Spring guide shoulder and the downlock assembly.
In another aspect of this particular embodiment, the who are skilled in the art may better understand the detailed
downlock assembly further comprises a cone assembly description of the invention that follows. Additional features
of the invention that are described hereinafter form the
having an uphole portion and a downhole portion. The subject of the claims of the invention. Those who are skilled
Spring guide is coupled to the cone assembly adjacent the in the art should appreciate that they can readily use the
downhole portion of the cone assembly, and the downhole 35
disclosed conception and Specific embodiment as a basis for
portion of the cone assembly includes a Spring guide Stop designing or modifying other Structures for carrying out the
shoulder. This embodiment of the downlock assembly also Same purposes of the present invention. Those who are
includes a downlock lug cage that is movably coupled to the skilled in the art should also realize that Such equivalent
cone assembly and that has a bumper Stop shoulder. The constructions do not depart from the Spirit and Scope of the
Spring guide shoulder is engageable against the Spring guide 40 invention in its broadest form.
Stop shoulder to capture the downlock assembly Spring
between the downlock lug cage and the Spring guide shoul BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
der. A bumper assembly is also present in this particular For a more complete understanding of the present
embodiment. The bumper assembly has a bumper coupled to invention, reference is now made to the following descrip
collet members positioned about the downhole portion of the 45 tions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
cone assembly. The bumper is engageable against the in which:
bumper Stop shoulder. FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodi
In another aspect of the present invention, a System for ment of a packer releasing tool constructed according to the
releasing a packer from a wellbore is provided. In one principles of the present invention;
preferred embodiment, the System comprises a packer that is 50
FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the toplock
coupled to a tubing String and that has a packer releasing key of FIG. 1;
profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a packer downhole FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the mandrel
shoulder. The System also includes a packer releasing tool as of FIG. 1;
previously discussed, including its various embodiments. FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cone
Preferably, the packer releasing tool includes a toplock 55
assembly of FIG. 1;
assembly that is removably coupled to a downlock assembly. FIG.2D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the downlock
A toplock key that is movably coupled to the toplock
assembly and that has a toplock key profile engageable lug of FIG. 1;
against the packer releasing profile is also present in this FIG.2E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the downlock
embodiment. Also present is a downlock lug that is movably 60 cage of FIG. 1;
coupled to the downlock assembly and that has a downlock FIG. 2F illustrates a cross-sectional view of the bumper
lug profile engageable against the packer releasing profile. assembly of FIG. 1;
The packer releasing tool has an Outer diameter that is leSS FIG.2G illustrates a cross-sectional view of the downlock
than an inner diameter of the tubing String Such that it may Spring guide of FIG. 1;
pass through the tubing String. This embodiment also 65 FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an
includes a downhole power unit couplable to the packer exemplary retrievable packer in the Set position capable of
releasing tool. being released by the packer releasing tool of FIG. 1;
 US 6,267,180 B1
S 6
FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer assembly 140, a downlock spring guide 160, and a downlock
releasing tool of FIG. 1 in the packer bore of FIG. 3; spring 165. The downlock lugs 132 are movably coupled to
FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer the downlock assembly 130. The downlock lug cage 133
releasing tool with the toplock key in contact with the includes a bumper stop shoulder 134. The extension rod 170
downhole shoulder of the packer release profile; comprises an extension rod retainer 175 located about and
FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer coupled to the extension rod 170.
releasing tool with the toplock key in contact with the uphole For the purposes of clarity and brevity during the remain
shoulder of the packer release profile; der of this discussion, further references to tool parts and
FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer Surfaces will be made in the Singular. However, one skilled
releasing tool with the toplock key in contact with the uphole in the art will readily understand that a given tool part So
shoulder and the downlock lug in contact with the downhole named is, in many instances, a plurality of Such parts.
shoulder of the packer release profile; Referring now to FIG. 2A, illustrated is a cross-sectional
FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer view of the toplock key of FIG. 1. In a preferred
releasing tool with the shift sleeve in contact with a shift 15
embodiment, the toplock key 111 has an inner profile 212
sleeve Stop shoulder; and an outer profile 213. The toplock key inner profile 212
comprises five surfaces 222a, 212b, 212c, 212d, and 212e.
FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer The outer profile 213 comprises a toplock key uphole Stop
releasing tool with the inner profile cooperating with the shoulder 213a, a toplock key outer surface 213b, and a
mandrel running profile; toplock key downhole stop shoulder 213c.
FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer Referring now to FIG. 2B, illustrated is a cross-sectional
releasing tool with the downlock lug in contact with the view of the mandrel of FIG.1. In a preferred embodiment,
packer uphole shoulder; and the toplock mandrel 120 further includes a running profile
FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packer 221, and a pulling profile 222. The running profile 221
releasing tool with the downlock lug retracted to a pulling 25
comprises three Surfaces 221a, 221b, and 221c. Likewise,
position. the pulling profile 222 comprises three Surfaces 222a, 222b,
and 222c.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to FIG. 2C, illustrated is a cross-sectional
Referring initially to FIG. 1, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the cone assembly of FIG. 1. In a preferred
View of one embodiment of a packer releasing tool con embodiment, the cone assembly 150 comprises an uphole
Structed according to the principles of the present invention. portion 255 and a downhole portion 257. The uphole portion
A packer releasing tool, generally designated 100, comprises 255 comprises an outer profile 251 with three surfaces 251a,
a toplock assembly 110, a downlock assembly 130, an 251b, and 251c. The downhole portion 257 comprises a
extension rod 170, and a downhole power unit 180. In a spring guide stop shoulder 258.
preferred embodiment, the extension rod 170 extends 35 Referring now to FIG. 2D, illustrated is a cross-sectional
through the toplock assembly 110 and the downlock assem view of the downlock lug of FIG. 1. In a preferred
bly 130 with the toplock assembly 110 coupled to the embodiment, the downlock lug 132 has an outer downlock
downlock assembly 130 by a plurality of assembly shear lug profile 235 and an inner downlock lug profile 237. The
pins 128. The extension rod 170 is movable with respect to outer downlock lug profile 235 comprises a downlock lug
the toplock assembly 110 and is engageable against the 40 uphole Stop shoulder 235a, a downlock lug Outer Surface
downlock assembly 130 to separate the downlock assembly 235b, and a downlock lug downhole stop shoulder 235c. The
130 from the toplock assembly 110. In this embodiment, the inner downlock lug profile 237 comprises two surfaces 231a
downhole power unit 180 is coupled to the extension rod 170 and 237b.
and is configured so that the downhole power unit 180 can Referring now to FIG. 2E with continuing reference to
exert a downhole force against the downlock assembly 130 45 FIG. 2C, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the down
by way of the extension rod 170. lock cage of FIG. 1. The downlock assembly 130 includes
In a preferred embodiment, the toplock assembly 110 a downlock lug running profile preferably comprising the
comprises a plurality of toplock keys 111, a toplock key cone assembly Surface 251C and a downlock lug aperture
carrier 115, a mandrel 120, a toplock assembly spring 125, 238 in the downlock lug cage 133.
a shear ring 114, and a plurality of key releasing shear pins 50 Referring now to FIG. 2F with continuing reference to
129. The toplock keys 111 are movably coupled to the FIG. 2C, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the bumper
toplock assembly 110 and ride in the toplock key carrier 115. assembly of FIG.1. In a preferred embodiment, the bumper
The toplock carrier 115 includes a carrier shoulder 116 and assembly 140 has a bumper 242 coupled to a plurality of
a carrier stop shoulder 117. The toplock mandrel 120 collet members 244 and is positioned about the downhole
includes a mandrel stop shoulder 123. The shear ring 114 is 55 portion 257 of the cone assembly 150.
located radially about the toplock mandrel 120 and inter Referring now to FIG. 2G with continuing reference to
posed between the carrier shoulder 116 and the mandrel stop FIG. 2C, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the down
shoulder 123. In this embodiment, the plurality of key lock Spring guide of FIG. 1. In a preferred embodiment, the
releasing shear pins 129 holds the shear ring 114 and toplock downlock spring guide 160 is located about the downhole
mandrel 120 in a fixed positional relationship. The mandrel 60 portion 257 of the cone assembly 150. The downlock spring
120 further includes a toplock spring stop shoulder 124. The guide 160 has a spring guide shoulder 265.
toplock assembly Spring 125 is located about the mandrel Referring now momentarily back to FIG. 1 with continu
120 and is captured between the toplock Spring Stop shoul ing reference to FIGS. 2A through 2G, in a preferred
der 124 and the uphole end of the toplock carrier 115. embodiment, the bumper assembly 140 is located about the
In a preferred embodiment, the downlock assembly 130 65 extension rod 170, and is captured by the extension rod
comprises a downlock cone assembly 150, a plurality of retainer 175. The bumper assembly 140 and extension rod
downlock lugs 132, a downlock lug cage 133, a bumper 170 are positioned through the cage 133 with the lug 132
 US 6,267,180 B1
7 8
inserted in aperture 238. The bumper stop shoulder 134 of inclined surface 221a of the running profile 221. The outer
the lug cage 133 is captured between the downlock assembly surface 213.b of the key 111 rides on the bore 455 of the
spring 165 and the bumper 242. The extension rod 170 and production tubing 350.
extension rod retainer 175 extend through the Spring guide Referring now to FIG. 5, illustrated is a cross-sectional
160 with the extension rod 170 and extension rod retainer View of the packer releasing tool with the toplock key in
175 movable with respect to the spring guide 160. In the contact with the downhole shoulder of the packer release
illustrated embodiment, the downlock assembly spring 165 profile. In a preferred embodiment, as the key 111 of the tool
is located circumferentially about the Spring guide 160 and 100 enters the packer release profile 302 the toplock assem
is captured between the downhole end of the bumper stop bly spring 125 urges the key 111 radially outward along
shoulder 134 and the spring guide shoulder 265. The spring inclined surface 221a. The key 111 continues radially out
guide shoulder 265 is captured by the Spring guide Stop ward until the inner Surfaces 212a, 212e of the key 111 ride
shoulder 258 of the cone assembly 150. upon the outer surfaces 221b, 222b of the mandrel 120 as
Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, illustrated is a partial shown. The toplock assembly spring 125 further urges
croSS-Sectional view of an exemplary retrievable packer in carrier 115 downhole until the carrier stop shoulder 117 of
the Set position capable of being released by the packer 15 the carrier 115 contacts cone shoulder 551 on the downlock
releasing tool of FIG. 1. A conventional retrievable packer, cone assembly 150.
generally designated 300, comprises a packer mandrel 310,
a primary packing Seal 320, an outer sleeve 325, and a As the tool 100 continues downhole proximate the packer
plurality of expandable slips 330. The primary packing seal releasing profile 302, the downhole stop shoulder 213c of
320 comprises a plurality of sealing elements 322 located the toplock key 111 contacts the packer downhole shoulder
radially about the circumference of the packer mandrel 310. 306, and the tool 100 stops with the downhole stop shoulder
The expandable slips 330 are distributed evenly about the 213c in contact with the packer downhole shoulder 306.
Reduced tension in the Slickline indicates that the tool is
circumference of the packer mandrel 310. One who is skilled located in the packer releasing profile 302. Tension is
in the art is familiar with the details of hydraulically-set well applied to the slickline, rapidly lifting the tool 100 until
packers. The packer 300 is threadably coupled to sections of 25
toplock key uphole Stop shoulder 213a contacts packer
production tubing 350,360 above and below the packer 300,
respectively. In prior art, upper production tubing Sections uphole shoulder 304 and with sufficient force to shear
350 would have to be removed to provide access for assembly shear pin 128. In an alternative embodiment, the
attachment of a conventional packer release tool. tool 100 may be lifted until toplock key surface 213a
The packer 300 further comprises a packer releasing contacts packer uphole shoulder 304, and the downhole
profile 302, a snap ring 326, a shear screw 380, and a shift power unit 180 is then used to shear the pin 128. The toplock
sleeve 390. The packer releasing profile 302 further com assembly 110 and downlock assembly 130 are now movably
prises a packer uphole shoulder 304, a packer downhole coupled about the extension rod 170.
shoulder 306, and a releasing profile inner surface 308. Referring now to FIG. 6 with continuing reference to FIG.
When expanded, the packing Seal 320 is held in compression 35 5, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the packer releasing
against a well casing 340 by the Snap ring 326 located in a tool with the toplock key in contact with the uphole shoulder
groove 312 about the packer mandrel 310. The Snap ring 326 of the packer release profile. In a preferred embodiment,
is held in the groove 312 by a shift sleeve extension 395 when pin 128 is sheared both the toplock key carrier 115 and
interposed between the Snap ring 326 and the outer sleeve the downlock lug cage 133 move relative to the extension
325. The shear Screw 380 holds the shift sleeve 390 in a 40 rod 170. These motions are in response to forces created by
fixed longitudinal position with respect to the outer sleeve the toplock assembly Spring 125 and the downlock Spring
325. The shift sleeve 390 further comprises a shift sleeve 165, respectively. The toplock assembly spring 125 urges the
recess 397 proximate the shift sleeve extension 395. To toplock carrier 115 further downhole relative to the mandrel
release a Set packer 300, it is necessary to apply Sufficient 120. The toplock carrier motion stops when carrier shoulder
force to translate shift sleeve 390 uphole with respect to the 45 116 contacts shear ring 114.
outer sleeve 325, shearing shear screw 380 and locating the Likewise, when pin 128 is sheared, downlock spring 165
shift sleeve recess 397 radially about the Snap ring 326. The urges the downlock cone assembly 150 downhole relative to
Snap ring 326 expands into the recess 397 and releases the the downlock lug cage 133. The downlock lug 132 is forced
packer mandrel 310. uphole along outer profile Surface 251c until downlock lug
Referring now to FIG. 4 with continuing reference to 50 surface 237a contacts outer profile surface 251b. Further
FIGS. 3A and 3B, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the uphole motion by the downlock cage 133 causes the down
packer releasing tool of FIG. 1 in the packer bore. At the lock lug 132 to ride up outer profile surface 251b and
surface of the well, the toplock assembly spring 125 is radially outward within lug cage aperture 238, thus extend
compressed and the inner profile 112 of the toplock key 111 ing into the packer releasing profile 302. AS the lug cage 133
cooperatively engages the running profile 221 of the man 55 continues its uphole motion, the downlock lug 132 slides
drel 120. In a preferred embodiment, the outside diameter into a position such that lug surface 237b is in contact with
410 of the tool 100 is less than the inside diameter 450 of the cone assembly Surface 251a. The lug cage motion ceases
production tubing 350. With the tool 100 inserted into the when downlock lug cage Stop shoulder 633 contacts cone
production tubing 350, the packer releasing tool 100 is assembly surface 251b. With the toplock key uphole stop
deployed on the end of a wire line (not shown). One who is 60 shoulder 213a in continuing contact with packer uphole
skilled in the art is familiar with oil field wire line tools and shoulder 304, the downhole power unit 180 applies a down
their employment. As the tool 100 travels through the tubing hole force to the downlock assembly 130 through extension
350, the toplock assembly spring 125 urges the carrier 115 rod 170, separating the toplock assembly 110 from the
downhole with respect to the mandrel 120. As the carrier 115 downlock assembly 130.
moves downhole relative to the mandrel 120, a downhole 65 Referring now to FIG. 7, illustrated is a cross-sectional
force is transmitted to the toplock key 111 by the carrier 115. View of the packer releasing tool with the toplock key in
This tends to force the key 111 radially outward along the contact with the uphole shoulder and the downlock lug in
 US 6,267,180 B1
9 10
contact with the downhole shoulder of the packer release retracted to a pulling position. As a continuing uphole
profile. In a preferred embodiment, the downhole power unit pulling force is applied to the tool 100, the downlock spring
180 continues to apply force to the extension rod 170, 165 urges the downlock lug cage 133 uphole forcing down
separating the toplock assembly 110 from the downlock lock lug Surface 237a into contact with cone assembly
assembly 130 until downlock lug downhole stop shoulder 5 surface 251b. This force tends to urge the lug 132 toward the
235c contacts downhole shoulder 306. The continuing force bore 455 of the production tubing 350. Thus, in a preferred
applied by the downhole power unit 180 separates the embodiment, the lug 132 conforms to the varying bore
uphole shoulder 304 and downhole shoulder 306 causing diameters as the tool 100 is retrieved from the tubing string.
shear screw 380 to shear and allowing shift sleeve 390 to Referring now briefly to FIGS. 3A and 3B, with the packer
move uphole relative to the packer mandrel 310. 300 released and the tool 100 removed, the entire production
tubing 350, 360 and packer 300 assembly is removed from
Referring now to FIG. 8, illustrated is a cross-sectional the wellbore.
view of the packer releasing tool with the shift sleeve in From the above, it is apparent that the present invention
contact with a shift sleeve Stop shoulder. In a preferred provides a packer releasing tool for releasing a packer from
embodiment, the shift sleeve 390 moves uphole into contact a wellbore where the packer is coupled to a tubing String and
with a shift sleeve stop shoulder 825 that is mechanically 15
has a releasing profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a
attached to the outer sleeve 325 through uphole threaded packer downhole shoulder. The packer releasing tool pref
joint 810. The motion of the shift sleeve 390 positions the erably comprises a toplock assembly that is removably
recess 397 about the snap ring 326. The snap ring 326 coupled to a downlock assembly and a toplock key that is
expands into the recess 397 and releases the packer mandrel movably coupled to the toplock assembly and that has a
310 as described in FIG. 3. The outer sleeve 325 is also toplock key profile engageable against the packer releasing
mechanically attached to the downhole shoulder 306 profile. This embodiment further includes a downlock lug
through downhole threaded joint 820. Thus, the packer that is movably coupled to the downlock assembly and that
uphole shoulder 304 and packer downhole shoulder 306 are has a downlock lug profile engageable against the packer
prevented from further relative Spreading motion by the releasing profile. The packer releasing tool preferably has an
outer sleeve 325. 25
outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the
The downhole power unit 180 continues to apply force tubing String. This unique configuration allows the packer to
through the extension rod 170 Spreading the toplock assem be pulled without the need of first removing the production
bly 110 and downlock assembly 130. Because the packer String.
uphole shoulder 304 and packer downhole shoulder 306 are Although the present invention has been described in
prevented from further relative motion, key 111 prevents detail, those who are skilled in the art should understand that
carrier 115 from uphole motion, and induces a shear force they can make various changes, Substitutions and alterations
concentrated at the key releasing shear pin 129. The key herein without departing from the Spirit and Scope of the
releasing shear pin 129 shears, and the top lock assembly invention in its broadest form.
spring 125 urges the carrier 115 downhole until the shear 35 What is claimed is:
ring 114 is captured between the carrier shoulder 116 and the 1. For releasing a packer from a wellbore, Said packer
mandrel shoulder 123. coupled to a tubing String and having a packer releasing
Referring now to FIG. 9, illustrated is a cross-sectional profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a packer downhole
View of the packer releasing tool with the inner profile shoulder, a packer releasing tool, comprising:
cooperating with the mandrel running profile. AS the carrier 40 a toplock assembly removably coupled to a downlock
115 moves downhole with respect to the mandrel 120, the assembly;
carrier 115 urges the key 111 downhole until the key inner a toplock key movably coupled to Said toplock assembly
profile 212 cooperates with the carrier running profile 222 and having a toplock key profile engageable against
and the key 111 retracts about the mandrel 120. In a Said packer releasing profile; and
preferred embodiment, the tool 100 is pulled up in the 45 a downlock lug movably coupled to Said downlock
packer releasing profile 302 until the downlock lug 132 assembly and having a downlock lug profile engage
contacts the packer uphole shoulder 304 at the uphole stop able against Said packer releasing profile.
shoulder 235a.
2. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 wherein
Referring now to FIG. 10, illustrated is a cross-sectional Said toplock key includes an inner profile and Said toplock
View of the packer releasing tool with the downlock lug in 50 assembly further comprises a running profile configured to
contact with the packer uphole shoulder. In this location, the cooperatively engage Said inner profile and receive Said
downlock lug cage 133 is prevented from further uphole toplock key therein as Said packer releasing tool is run into
motion. In a preferred embodiment, continued uphole force said wellbore.
is transmitted through the extension rod 170, Spring guide 3. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 2 wherein
stop shoulder 258 and spring guide shoulder 265 that causes 55 Said toplock assembly further comprises a pulling profile
the downlock spring 165 to compress. The downlock cone configured to cooperatively engage Said inner profile and
assembly 150 is rigidly affixed to the extension rod 170 and receive Said toplock key therein when Said packer releasing
moves uphole relative to the downlock lug cage 133. AS the tool is pulled from said wellbore.
downlock cone assembly 150 moves uphole, the cone 4. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 2 wherein
assembly 150 slides relative to lug 132 until lug surface 60 Said toplock assembly further comprises a toplock carrier
237a contacts outer profile surface 251b. As the cone and a mandrel, Said toplock carrier movable with respect to
assembly 150 continues uphole relative to the lug cage 133, Said mandrel, and Said toplock assembly further including a
downlock lug 132 rides down outer profile surface 251b key releasing Shear pin coupling Said toplock carrier to Said
within the downlock lug aperture 238, until the lug 132 mandrel and holding Said toplock carrier and Said mandrel in
clears packer uphole shoulder 304. 65 a fixed positional relationship.
Referring now to FIG. 11, illustrated is a cross-sectional 5. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 4 wherein
View of the packer releasing tool with the downlock lug Said mandrel includes a mandrel Stop shoulder and Said
 US 6,267,180 B1
11 12
toplock carrier includes a carrier shoulder configured to Spring between Said downlock lug cage and Said Spring
engage Said mandrel Stop shoulder and prevent a movement guide shoulder; and
of Said toplock carrier with respect to Said mandrel. a bumper assembly having a bumper coupled to collet
6. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 4 further members positioned about Said downhole portion of
comprising a toplock assembly Spring configured to exert a 5 Said cone assembly, Said bumper engageable against
downhole force against Said toplock carrier and move Said Said bumper Stop shoulder.
toplock carrier downhole with respect to Said mandrel to 16. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 wherein
allow Said inner profile to engage Said pulling profile when Said packer releasing tool has an outer diameter less than an
Said key releasing shear pin is sheared. inner diameter of Said tubing String Such that it may pass
7. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 wherein through Said tubing String.
Said toplock assembly is removably coupled to Said down 17. A System for releasing a packer from a wellbore,
lock assembly by an assembly shear pin. comprising,
8. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 7 wherein a packer coupled to a tubing String and having a packer
Said assembly Shear pin is configured to Shear when a releasing profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a
Sufficient amount of force is exerted against Said shear pin, 15 packer downhole shoulder;
and thereby allow Said toplock assembly to Separate from a packer releasing tool, comprising;
Said downlock assembly. a toplock assembly removably coupled to a downlock
9. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 wherein assembly;
Said downlock assembly includes a downlock lug running a toplock key movably coupled to Said toplock assem
profile configured to cooperatively receive Said downlock bly and having a toplock key profile engageable
lug therein as Said packer releasing tool is run into Said against Said packer releasing profile;
wellbore. a downlock lug movably coupled to Said downlock
10. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 wherein assembly and having a downlock lug profile engage
Said toplock key profile includes a toplock key uphole Stop able against Said packer releasing profile, Said packer
shoulder configured to engage Said packer uphole shoulder 25 releasing tool having an Outer diameter less than an
and a toplock key downhole Stop shoulder configured to inner diameter of Said tubing String Such that it may
engage Said packer downhole shoulder. pass through Said tubing String, and
11. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 wherein a downhole power unit couplable to Said packer releasing
Said downlock lug profile includes a downlock lug uphole tool.
Stop shoulder configured to engage Said packer uphole 18. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said toplock
shoulder and a downlock lug downhole Stop shoulder con key includes an inner profile and Said toplock assembly
figured to engage Said packer downhole shoulder. further comprises a running profile configured to coopera
12. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 1 further tively engage Said inner profile and receive Said toplock key
comprising an extension rod extending through said toplock therein as Said packer releasing tool is run into Said wellbore.
assembly and Said downlock assembly, Said extension rod 35 19. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said toplock
movable with respect to Said toplock assembly and engage assembly further comprises a pulling profile configured to
able against Said downlock assembly to Separate Said down cooperatively engage Said inner profile and receive Said
lock assembly from Said toplock assembly. toplock key therein when Said packer releasing tool is pulled
13. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 12 further from said wellbore.
comprising a downhole power unit coupled to Said extension 40 20. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said toplock
rod and configured to exert a downhole force against Said assembly further comprises a toplock carrier and a mandrel,
downlock assembly by way of Said extension rod. Said toplock carrier movable with respect to Said mandrel,
14. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 12 further and Said toplock assembly further includes a key releasing
comprising: Shear pin coupling Said toplock carrier to Said mandrel and
an extension rod retainer coupled to Said extension rod; 45 holding Said toplock carrier and Said mandrel in a fixed
a Spring guide having a Spring guide shoulder and posi positional relationship.
tioned about Said extension rod retainer, Said Spring 21. The system as recited in claim 20 wherein said
guide coupled to Said downlock assembly, Said exten mandrel includes a mandrel Stop shoulder and Said toplock
Sion rod extending through said extension rod retainer carrier includes a carrier shoulder configured to engage Said
and Said Spring guide, Said extension rod retainer 50 mandrel Stop shoulder and prevent a movement of Said
movable with respect to Said Spring guide; and toplock carrier with respect to Said mandrel.
a downlock assembly Spring, Said downlock assembly 22. The system as recited in claim 20 further comprising
Spring positioned about Said Spring guide and captured a toplock assembly Spring configured to exert a downhole
force against Said toplock carrier and move Said toplock
between Said Spring guide shoulder and Said downlock 55 carrier downhole with respect to Said mandrel and allow Said
assembly. inner profile to engage Said pulling profile when said key
15. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 14 releasing Shear pin is sheared.
wherein Said downlock assembly further comprises: 23. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said toplock
a cone assembly having an uphole portion and a downhole assembly is removably coupled to Said downlock assembly
portion, Said Spring guide coupled to Said cone assem 60 by an assembly Shear pin.
bly adjacent Said downhole portion of Said cone 24. The system as recited in claim 23 wherein said
assembly, Said downhole portion of Said cone assembly assembly shear pin is configured to Shear when a Sufficient
including a Spring guide Stop shoulder; amount of force is exerted against Said shear pin, and
a downlock lug cage movably coupled to Said cone thereby allow Said toplock assembly to Separate from Said
assembly and having a bumper Stop shoulder, Said 65 downlock assembly.
Spring guide shoulder engageable against Said Spring 25. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said
guide Stop shoulder to capture Said downlock assembly downlock assembly includes a downlock lug running profile
 US 6,267,180 B1
13 14
configured to cooperatively receive Said downlock lug 35. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said packer
therein as Said packer releasing tool is run into Said wellbore. releasing tool has an outer diameter less than an inner
26. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said toplock diameter of Said tubing String Such that it may pass through
key profile includes a toplock key uphole Stop shoulder Said tubing String.
configured to engage Said packer uphole shoulder and a 36. For releasing a packer from a wellbore, Said packer
toplock key downhole Stop shoulder configured to engage coupled to a tubing String and having a packer releasing
Said packer downhole shoulder. profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a packer downhole
27. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said shoulder, a packer releasing tool, comprising:
downlock lug profile includes a downlock lug uphole Stop a toplock assembly removably coupled to a downlock
shoulder configured to engage Said packer uphole shoulder assembly, Said toplock assembly having a running
and a downlock lug downhole Stop shoulder configured to profile;
engage Said packer downhole shoulder.
28. The system as recited in claim 17 further comprising a toplock key movably coupled to Said toplock assembly
an extension rod extending through Said toplock assembly and having a toplock key profile engageable against
and Said downlock assembly, Said extension rod movable Said packer releasing profile, Said toplock key further
with respect to Said toplock assembly and engageable 15 having an inner profile, Said running profile configured
against Said downlock assembly to Separate Said downlock to cooperatively engage Said inner profile and receive
assembly from Said toplock assembly. Said toplock key therein as Said packer releasing tool is
29. The system as recited in claim 28 wherein said run into Said wellbore; and
downhole power unit is coupled to Said extension rod and a downlock lug movably coupled to Said downlock
configured to exert a downhole force against Said downlock assembly and having a downlock lug downhole Stop
assembly by way of Said extension rod. shoulder engageable against Said downhole shoulder,
30. The system as recited in claim 28 further comprising: Said downlock lug profile including a running profile
an extension rod retainer coupled to Said extension rod; configured to cooperatively receive Said downlock lug
a Spring guide having a Spring guide shoulder and posi therein as Said packer releasing tool is run into Said
tioned about Said extension rod retainer, Said Spring 25 wellbore, Said packer releasing tool having an outer
guide coupled to Said downlock assembly, Said exten diameter less than an inner diameter of Said tubing
Sion rod extending through said extension rod retainer String Such that it may pass through said tubing String.
and Said Spring guide, Said extension rod retainer 37. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 36
movable with respect to Said Spring guide; and wherein Said toplock assembly is removably coupled to Said
a downlock assembly Spring, Said downlock assembly downlock assembly by an assembly Shear pin.
Spring positioned about Said Spring guide and captured 38. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 37
between Said Spring guide shoulder and Said downlock wherein Said assembly shear pin is configured to shear when
assembly. a Sufficient amount of force is exerted against Said Shear pin,
31. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said and thereby allow Said toplock assembly to Separate from
downlock assembly further comprises: 35 Said downlock assembly.
a cone assembly having an uphole portion and a downhole 39. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 36
portion, Said Spring guide coupled to Said cone assem wherein Said toplock key includes an inner profile and Said
bly adjacent Said downhole portion of Said cone toplock assembly further comprises a pulling profile con
assembly, Said downhole portion of Said cone assembly figured to cooperatively engage Said inner profile and
including a Spring guide Stop shoulder; receive Said toplock key therein when Said packer releasing
40
a downlock lug cage movably coupled to Said cone tool is pulled from said wellbore.
assembly and having a bumper Stop shoulder, Said 40. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 39
wherein Said toplock assembly further comprises a toplock
Spring guide shoulder engageable against Said Spring carrier and a mandrel, Said toplock carrier movable with
guide Stop shoulder to capture Said downlock assembly respect to Said mandrel, and Said toplock assembly further
Spring between Said downlock lug cage and Said Spring 45 includes a key releasing Shear pin coupling Said toplock
guide shoulder; and carrier to Said mandrel and holding Said toplock carrier and
a bumper assembly having a bumper coupled to collet Said mandrel in a fixed positional relationship.
members positioned about Said downhole portion of 41. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 40
Said cone assembly, Said bumper engageable against wherein Said mandrel includes a mandrel Stop shoulder and
Said bumper Stop shoulder. 50 Said toplock carrier includes a carrier shoulder configured to
32. The system as recited in claim 17 wherein said packer engage Said mandrel Stop shoulder and prevent a movement
includes packer Seals and packer SlipS engageable against an of Said toplock carrier with respect to Said mandrel.
inner diameter of said wellbore. 42. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 40 further
33. The system as recited in claim 32 wherein said packer comprising a toplock assembly Spring configured to exert a
further includes a Snap ring and a Snap ring mandrel, Said 55
downhole force against Said toplock carrier and move Said
Snap ring mandrel having a slideable packer sleeve associ toplock carrier downhole with respect to Said mandrel and
ated there with to maintain Said Snap ring in a retracted allow Said inner profile to engage Said pulling profile when
position, Said Snap ring configured to maintain Said packer Said key releasing shear pin is sheared.
Seal and packer Slips in an engaged position against Said 43. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 36
inner diameter of Said wellbore when Said Snap ring is in Said wherein Said toplock key profile includes a toplock key
retracted position. 60 uphole no-go shoulder configured to engage Said packer
34. The system as recited in claim 33 wherein said packer uphole shoulder and a toplock key downhole no-go shoulder
releasing tool is engageable against Said uphole shoulder to configured to engage Said packer downhole shoulder.
shift Said packer sleeve with respect to Said Snap ring, 44. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 36
thereby to allow said Snap ring to move from Said retracted wherein Said downlock lug profile includes a downlock lug
position to a release position and allow Said packer Seal and 65 uphole no-go shoulder configured to engage Said packer
Said packer slips to disengage from Said inner diameter of uphole shoulder and a downlock lug downhole no-go shoul
said wellbore. der configured to engage Said packer downhole shoulder.
 US 6,267,180 B1
15 16
45. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 36 further coupled by a key releasing shearing pin and Said method
comprising an extension rod extending through said toplock further includes:
assembly and Said downlock assembly, Said extension rod Shearing Said key releasing Shear pin, thereby to allow
movable with respect to Said toplock assembly and engage Said mandrel to move with respect to Said toplock
able against Said downlock assembly to Separate Said down carrier,
lock assembly from Said toplock assembly. shifting Said mandrel with respect to Said toplock carrier;
46. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 45 further receiving Said toplock key within Said inner pulling
comprising a downhole power unit coupled to Said extension
rod and configured to exert a downhole force against Said profile of Said mandrel; and
downlock assembly by way of Said extension rod. 1O
releasing Said toplock key from Said packer releasing
47. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 45 further profile.
comprising: 53. The method as in claim 52 wherein said mandrel
an extension rod retainer fixedly coupled to Said extension includes a mandrel Stop shoulder and Said toplock carrier
rod; includes a carrier shoulder and Said shifting includes engag
a Spring guide having a Spring guide shoulder and posi 15
ing Said carrier Shoulder against Said mandrel Stop shoulder
tioned about Said extension rod retainer, Said Spring to prevent a further movement of Said toplock carrier with
guide fixedly coupled to Said downlock assembly, Said respect to Said mandrel.
54. The method as recited in claim 52 wherein said
extension rod extending through Said extension rod toplock assembly further comprises a toplock assembly
retainer and Said Spring guide, Said extension rod Spring and Said Shearing includes exerting a downhole force
retainer movable with respect to Said Spring guide, and against Said toplock carrier with Said toplock assembly
a downlock assembly Spring, Said downlock assembly Spring and moving Said toplock carrier downhole with
Spring positioned about Said Spring guide and captured respect to Said mandrel to allow said inner profile to engage
between Said Spring guide shoulder and Said downlock Said pulling profile when Said key releasing shear pin is
assembly. Sheared.
48. The packer releasing tool as recited in claim 47 25 55. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said
wherein Said downlock assembly further comprises: toplock assembly is removably coupled to Said downlock
a cone assembly having an uphole portion and a downhole assembly by an assembly Shear pin.
portion, Said Spring guide coupled to Said cone assem 56. The method as recited in claim 55 wherein said:
bly adjacent Said downhole portion of Said cone engaging Said toplock key profile and Said downlock lug
assembly, Said downhole portion of Said cone assembly profile includes exerting a Sufficient amount of force
including a Spring guide Stop shoulder; against Said shear pin to Shear Said Shear pin; and
a downlock lug cage movably coupled to Said cone Separating Said toplock assembly from Said downlock
assembly and having a bumper stop shoulder, Said assembly.
Spring guide shoulder engageable against Said Spring 57. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said
guide Stop shoulder to capture Said downlock assembly 35 positioning includes receiving Said downlock lug within a
Spring between Said downlock lug cage and Said Spring downlock lug running profile of Said downlock assembly as
guide shoulder; and Said packer releasing tool is run into Said wellbore.
58. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said
a bumper assembly having a bumper coupled to collet toplock key profile includes a toplock key uphole Stop
members positioned about Said downhole portion of shoulder and a toplock key downhole Stop shoulder Said
Said cone assembly, Said bumper assembly engageable 40
engaging toplock key profile of Said toplock assembly
against Said bumper Stop shoulder. against Said packer releasing profile includes engaging Said
49. A method for releasing a packer from a wellbore, said toplock key downhole Stop shoulder against Said packer
packer coupled to a tubing String and having a packer downhole shoulder and engaging Said toplock key uphole
releasing profile with a packer uphole shoulder and a packer Stop shoulder against Said packer uphole shoulder.
downhole shoulder, comprising: 45 59. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said
positioning a packer releasing tool within a packer posi downlock lug profile includes a downlock lug uphole Stop
tioned in a wellbore, Said packer releasing tool having shoulder and a downlock lug downhole Stop shoulder and
a toplock assembly removably coupled to a downlock Said method of engaging Said packer releasing profile
assembly; includes engaging Said downlock lug downhole Stop shoul
engaging a toplock key profile of Said toplock assembly 50 der against Said packer downhole shoulder and engaging
against Said packer releasing profile; Said downlock lug uphole Stop shoulder against Said packer
uphole shoulder.
engaging a downlock lug profile of Said downlock assem 60. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said packer
bly against Said packer releasing profile; and releasing tool further comprises an extension rod extending
releasing Said packer from Said wellbore. 55 through Said toplock assembly and Said downlock assembly,
50. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said Said extension rod movable with respect to Said toplock
positioning includes engaging an inner profile of Said assembly and Said engaging packer releasing profile
toplock key against a running profile of Said toplock assem includes engaging Said extension rod against Said downlock
bly to receive Said toplock key within Said running profile as assembly and Separating Said downlock assembly from Said
Said packer releasing tool is positioned within Said packer. 60
toplock assembly.
51. The method as recited in claim 50 wherein said 61. The method as recited in claim 60 wherein said
method includes pulling Said releasing tool from Said well Separating includes exerting a force against Said extension
bore and Said pulling includes engaging an inner profile of rod with a downhole power unit coupled to Said extension
Said toplock key with Said inner pulling profile and receiving rod.
Said toplock key in Said inner pulling profile when said 62. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said
packer releasing tool is pulled from Said wellbore. 65 releasing Said packer includes engaging Said packer releas
52. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said ing tool against Said uphole shoulder and shifting a packer
toplock assembly includes a toplock carrier and a mandrel sleeve with respect to a packer Snap ring, thereby to allow
 US 6,267,180 B1
17 18
Said Snap ring to move from a retracted position to a release Said tubing String and Said method further comprises running
position and allow packer Seals and packer SlipS to disen Said packer releasing tool through said tubing String and
gage from an inner diameter of Said wellbore. removing Said packer and Said tubing String Simultaneously
63. The method as recited in claim 49 wherein said packer from said wellbore.
releasing tool has an outer diameter less than an inner
diameter of Said tubing String Such that it may pass through