Patent attributes
Embodiments described herein provide an expanding and collapsing apparatus and methods of use. The apparatus includes a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure about a longitudinal axis. The ring structure is operable to be moved between an expanded condition and a collapsed condition by movement of the plurality of elements. At least one set of structural elements are operable to move between the expanded condition and the collapsed condition by movement of a first end in an axial direction, and by movement of a second end in a radial dimension. In certain embodiments, the plurality of elements includes at least one set of structural elements extending longitudinally on the apparatus and operable to slide with respect to one another. Applications of the embodiments described herein include oilfield devices, including anti-extrusion rings, plugs, packers, locks, patching tools, connection systems, and variable diameter tools run in a wellbore.
