Well tool stopping devices, systems and methods

Abstract

A tool stopping device for use in well flow conductors for stopping well tools moving therethrough, these devices being located at desired checkpoints, their arrival thereat indicating the progress of the tools in the flow conductor, each device having lugs movable between an inner, tool stopping position and an outer position in which they do not obstruct the bore of the device, each device also having a mechanism remotely actuable from the surface for moving the lugs between their outer and inner positions, whereby tools may be stopped by the lugs when in their inner position, after which the lugs may be moved to their outer position to free the tools for movement beyond the device. In some forms of the devices, the lugs may stop tools in position where they are to be locked in place. In another form, the tools are stopped by a shoulder in the device and the lugs are then contracted to anchor the tool in engagement with that shoulder. In further forms, the device has a lug which may block the slot in an orienting sleeve incorporated therein for stopping a perforating gun, kickover tool, or the like, after being oriented, the lug being remotely retractable to a position wherein it does not block the slot, thus freeing the tool for unhindered movement therebeyond. Systems and methods relating to such devices are also disclosed.