US Patent 10094501 High pressure remote connector with self-aligning geometry

A connector can include multiple circumferentially distributed engagement structures which clamp two hubs together, and a biasing device which biases the engagement structures toward an open configuration thereof, in which the hubs are separable from each other. Another connector can include multiple circumferentially distributed engagement structures, each having a recess which receives hubs therein, and a sleeve which encircles the engagement structures and prevents the engagement structures from displacing radially outward from an open configuration thereof, in which the hubs are separable from each other. A method of making a connection to a wellhead can include applying pressure to a connector, thereby allowing multiple circumferentially distributed engagement structures to displace outward to an open configuration thereof, and displacing one hub of the connector into contact with another hub secured to the wellhead, the engagement structures axially aligning the hubs during the displacing.