DRILLING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USE WITH ROTATING DRILL PIPE

Abstract

A drilling apparatus connectable with a drill pipe and connectable with a drilling assembly comprising a drilling assembly housing, for use in drilling a borehole, including a rotation restraining device actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position, a rotation restraining device actuator for actuating the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position, a swivel actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and a swivel actuator for actuating the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position. A method for drilling a borehole, including connecting a drilling assembly with a drill pipe, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a drilling assembly housing, drilling while rotating the drill pipe and thereby rotating the drilling assembly housing, and drilling while rotating the drill pipe relative to the drilling assembly housing.

Claims

1. A drilling apparatus connectable with a drill pipe and connectable with a drilling assembly comprising a drilling assembly housing, for use in drilling a borehole, comprising: a rotation restraining device actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the rotation restraining device is connected with the drilling assembly housing such that rotation of the drilling assembly housing relative to the borehole is inhibited when the drilling apparatus is in the borehole and the rotation restraining device is in the extended position; a rotation restraining device actuator for actuating the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position; a swivel actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the drilling assembly housing is rotatable with the drill pipe when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the drill pipe is rotatable relative to the drilling assembly housing when the swivel is in the unlocked position; and a swivel actuator for actuating the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

2. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drilling apparatus comprises the drilling assembly.

3. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a directional drilling assembly for use in directional drilling.

4. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the swivel comprises a proximal swivel component non-rotatably connectable with the drill pipe and a distal swivel component non-rotatably connected with the drilling assembly housing, wherein the proximal swivel component is non-rotatably connected with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the proximal swivel component is rotatably connected with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the unlocked position.

5. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a locking element which non-rotatably connects the proximal swivel component with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

6. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the locking element is movable relative to at least one of the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

7. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the locking element is non-rotatably connected with one of the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component when the swivel is in both the locked position and the unlocked position, and wherein the locking element is non-rotatably connected with both the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

8. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the locking element comprises a locking element engagement surface, wherein the swivel comprises a swivel component engagement surface, wherein the locking element engagement surface is engaged with the swivel component engagement surface when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the locking element engagement surface is disengaged from the swivel component engagement surface when the swivel is in the unlocked position.

9. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the locking element engagement surface and the swivel component engagement surface comprise complementary splines.

10. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the locking element is axially movable relative to at least one of the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

11. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the drilling apparatus defines an apparatus bore, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the locking element is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the locking element is movable by the mandrel to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

12. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore.

13. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

14. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the swivel is in the locked position when the mandrel is in an axial first mandrel position, and wherein the swivel is in the unlocked position when the mandrel is in an axial second mandrel position.

15. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein the swivel actuator comprises an indexing mechanism for maintaining the mandrel in the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

16. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises a barrel cam assembly comprising a barrel cam and a barrel cam pin, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable and rotatable relative to the barrel cam pin.

17. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein the barrel cam assembly is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable by the mandrel.

18. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the rotation restraining device comprises at least one borehole engagement member, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the rotation restraining device actuator to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

19. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the at least one borehole engagement member comprises a radial extension member, and wherein the radial extension member is extendably biased.

20. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a ramp, wherein the ramp and the at least one borehole engagement member define complementary inclined surfaces, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the ramp to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

21. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein the ramp is axially movable relative to the at least one borehole engagement member.

22. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein the drilling apparatus defines an apparatus bore, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the ramp is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the ramp is movable by the mandrel to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

23. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 22, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore.

24. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 22, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

25. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the rotation restraining device is in the retracted position when the mandrel is in an axial first mandrel position, and wherein the rotation restraining device is in the extended position when the mandrel is in an axial second mandrel position.

26. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the swivel actuator comprises an indexing mechanism for maintaining the mandrel in the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

27. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 26, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises a barrel cam assembly comprising a barrel cam and a barrel cam pin, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable and rotatable relative to the barrel cam pin.

28. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the barrel cam assembly is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable by the mandrel.

29. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator and the swivel actuator comprise a combined actuator.

30. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 29, wherein the combined actuator comprises a locking element which non-rotatably connects the proximal swivel component with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

31. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 29, wherein the rotation restraining device comprises at least one borehole engagement member, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the combined actuator to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

32. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 31, wherein the combined actuator comprises a ramp, wherein the ramp and the at least one borehole engagement member define complementary inclined surfaces, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the ramp to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

33. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 32, wherein the combined actuator comprises a locking element which non-rotatably connects the proximal swivel component with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

34. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 33, wherein the drilling apparatus defines an apparatus bore, wherein the combined actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the locking element and the ramp are positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the locking element is movable by the mandrel to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position, and wherein the ramp is movable by the mandrel to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

35. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 34, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore.

36. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 34, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

37. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 35, wherein the swivel is in the locked position and the rotation restraining device is in the retracted position when the mandrel is in an axial first mandrel position, and wherein the swivel is in the unlocked position and the rotation restraining device is in the extended position when the mandrel is in an axial second mandrel position.

38. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 37, wherein the combined actuator comprises an indexing mechanism for maintaining the mandrel in the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

39. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 38, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises a barrel cam assembly comprising a barrel cam and a barrel cam pin, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable and rotatable relative to the barrel cam pin.

40. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 39, wherein the barrel cam assembly is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable by the mandrel.

41. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the directional drilling assembly comprises a drilling motor.

42. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 41, wherein the directional drilling assembly defines a toolface direction for directional drilling.

43. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the drilling apparatus comprises a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the directional drilling assembly and the rotation restraining device are axially located between the swivel and the distal end of the drilling apparatus.

44. The drilling apparatus as claimed in claim 43, wherein the rotation restraining device is axially located between the swivel and the directional drilling assembly.

45. A method for drilling a borehole, comprising: connecting a drilling assembly with a drill pipe, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a drilling assembly housing; drilling while rotating the drill pipe and thereby rotating the drilling assembly housing; and drilling while rotating the drill pipe relative to the drilling assembly housing.

46. The method as claimed in claim 45, wherein drilling the borehole is performed using a drilling apparatus comprising: the drilling assembly, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a directional drilling assembly; a rotation restraining device actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the rotation restraining device is connected with the drilling assembly housing such that rotation of the drilling assembly housing relative to the borehole is inhibited when the drilling apparatus is in the borehole and the rotation restraining device is in the extended position; and a swivel actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the drilling assembly housing is rotatable with the drill pipe when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the drill pipe is rotatable relative to the drilling assembly housing when the swivel is in the unlocked position.

47. The method as claimed in claim 46, comprising performing non-directional drilling when drilling while rotating the drill pipe and thereby rotating the drilling assembly housing, and comprising performing directional drilling when drilling while rotating the drill pipe relative to the drilling assembly housing.

48. The method as claimed in claim 47, wherein during the non-directional drilling the rotation restraining device is actuated to the retracted position and the swivel is actuated to the locked position, and wherein during the directional drilling the rotation restraining device is actuated to the extended position and the swivel is actuated to the unlocked position.

49. The method as claimed in claim 48, comprising actuating the rotation restraining device to the retracted position and actuating the swivel to the locked position before commencing the non-directional drilling.

50. The method as claimed in claim 49, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device to the retracted position and actuating the swivel to the locked position is performed while the drill pipe is not rotating.

51. The method as claimed in claim 48, comprising actuating the rotation restraining device to the extended position and actuating the swivel to the unlocked position before commencing the directional drilling.

52. The method as claimed in claim 51, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device to the extended position and actuating the swivel to the unlocked position is performed while the drill pipe is not rotating.

53. The method as claimed in claim 51, comprising actuating the rotation restraining device to the retracted position and actuating the swivel to the locked position before commencing the non-directional drilling.

54. The method as claimed in claim 53, comprising repeating at least one of the non-directional drilling and the directional drilling.

55. The method as claimed in claim 54, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device is performed by a rotation restraining device actuator.

56. The method as claimed in claim 55, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device comprises moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

57. The method as claimed in claim 55, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device comprises axially moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

58. The method as claimed in claim 57, wherein the mandrel is axially moved within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

59. The method as claimed in claim 54, wherein actuating the swivel is performed by a swivel actuator.

60. The method as claimed in claim 59, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the swivel comprises moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

61. The method as claimed in claim 59, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the swivel comprises axially moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

62. The method as claimed in claim 61, wherein the mandrel is axially moved within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

63. The method as claimed in claim 54, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device and actuating the swivel is performed by a combined actuator.

64. The method as claimed in claim 63, wherein the combined actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device and the swivel comprises moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

65. The method as claimed in claim 63, wherein the combined actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device and the swivel comprises axially moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

66. The method as claimed in claim 65, wherein the mandrel is axially moved within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0152] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0153] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of components of an exemplary drill string, including a drill pipe, a bottom-hole assembly comprising a drilling apparatus and a drilling assembly, and a drill bit;

[0154] FIG. 2 is a side view of components of an exemplary embodiment of a drilling apparatus for use in a drill string of the type depicted in FIG. 1, wherein the depicted components include a rotation restraining device, a rotation restraining device actuator, a swivel, and a swivel actuator;

[0155] FIGS. 3A-3F are longitudinal section assembly views of components of the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus depicted in FIG. 2, taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 2;

[0156] FIG. 4 is a side view of the proximal swivel component in the swivel depicted in FIGS. 3A-3F;

[0157] FIGS. 5A and 5B are views of the locking element in the swivel actuator depicted in FIGS. 3A-3F, wherein FIG. 5A is a side view of the locking element and FIG. 5B is a transverse section view of the locking element taken along line 5B-5B in FIG. 5A;

[0158] FIGS. 6A and 6B are views of the barrel cam in the indexing mechanism depicted in FIGS. 3A-3F, wherein FIG. 6A is a pictorial view of the barrel cam and FIG. 6B is a side view of the barrel cam;

[0159] FIG. 7 is an isolated longitudinal section assembly view of a first alternate embodiment of a rotation restraining device and a rotation restraining device actuator for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2;

[0160] FIG. 8 is a pictorial view of components of a second alternate embodiment of a rotation restraining device and a rotation restraining device actuator for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2;

[0161] FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic longitudinal section assembly views of the valve mechanism in the rotation restraining device actuator depicted in FIG. 8, wherein FIG. 9A depicts the valve in an open position, and FIG. 9B depicts the valve in a closed position;

[0162] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal section assembly view of components of the rotation restraining device depicted in FIG. 8, wherein the rotation restraining device is shown actuated to the extended position;

[0163] FIG. 11 is a longitudinal section assembly view of an alternate embodiment of a signal generation pressure drop device for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2;

[0164] FIG. 12 is a longitudinal section assembly view of a first alternate exemplary embodiment of a bearing configuration for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2;

[0165] FIG. 13 is a longitudinal section assembly view of a second alternate exemplary embodiment of a bearing configuration for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2;

[0166] FIG. 14 is a longitudinal section assembly view of a third alternate exemplary embodiment of a bearing configuration for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2; and

[0167] FIG. 15 is a longitudinal section assembly view of a fourth alternate exemplary embodiment of a bearing configuration for use in a drilling apparatus of the type depicted in FIG. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0168] In this document, the word “comprising” is used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. A reference to an element by the indefinite article “a” does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the elements is present, unless the context clearly requires that there be one and only one of the elements.

[0169] FIGS. 1-15 depict non-limiting examples of a drill string, a drilling apparatus and components of a drilling apparatus.

[0170] FIGS. 1-15 are exemplary only. The features of the drilling apparatus and the components of the drilling apparatus depicted in FIGS. 1-15 and described herein may be included in alternative designs and types of drilling apparatus.

[0171] In the description of the exemplary embodiments which follows, features which are identical or generally equivalent in the exemplary embodiments may be identified with the same reference numbers.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary drill string (10) includes a drill pipe (22), a bottom-hole assembly (12) comprising a drilling apparatus (20) and a drilling assembly (30), and a drill bit (34).

[0173] The drilling apparatus (20) comprises a proximal end (24), a distal end (26), and a drilling apparatus housing (28). As depicted in FIG. 1, the drilling apparatus (20) comprises the drilling assembly (30). In other embodiments, the drilling assembly (30) may be a component of the drill string (10) and/or the bottom-hole assembly (12) which is separate from the drilling apparatus (20).

[0174] The drilling assembly (30) comprises a drilling assembly housing (32). As depicted in FIG. 1, the drilling assembly housing (32) is a component of the drilling apparatus housing (28).

[0175] As depicted in FIG. 1, the drilling assembly (30) is a directional drilling assembly comprising a steerable drilling motor such as a steerable progressing cavity motor (PDM). As depicted in FIG. 1, the steerable drilling motor comprises an external bend (33) in the drilling assembly housing (32) which defines a toolface direction for the drilling assembly (30). In other embodiments, the steerable drilling motor may define a toolface direction in some other manner.

[0176] In other embodiments, the drilling assembly (30) may comprise a different type of drilling motor, may comprise a different type of directional drilling assembly, may comprise a non-directional drilling assembly, and/or may comprise some other type of suitable apparatus for providing drilling energy to the drill bit (34).

[0177] As depicted in FIG. 1, the drill bit (34) is connected with or otherwise positioned at the distal end (26) of the drilling apparatus (20).

[0178] The drilling apparatus (20) further comprises a swivel (40) and a rotation restraining device (42). As depicted in FIG. 1, the drilling assembly (30) and the rotation restraining device (42) are both axially located between the swivel (40) and the distal end (26) of the drilling apparatus (20). As depicted in FIG. 1, the rotation restraining device (42) is also axially located between the swivel (40) and the drilling assembly (30). In other embodiments, the drilling assembly (30) may be axially located between the swivel (40) and the rotation restraining device (42).

[0179] The swivel (40) is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the drilling assembly housing (32) is rotatable with the drill pipe (22). In the unlocked position, the drill pipe (22) is rotatable relative to the drilling assembly housing (32). The drilling apparatus (20) further comprises a swivel actuator (not specifically shown in FIG. 1) for actuating the swivel (40) between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0180] The rotation restraining device (42) is actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position. The rotation restraining device (42) is connected directly or indirectly with the drilling assembly housing (32) such that rotation of the drilling assembly housing (32) relative to the borehole is inhibited when the drilling apparatus (20) is in the borehole and the rotation restraining device (42) is in the extended position. The drilling apparatus (20) further comprises a rotation restraining device actuator (not specifically shown in FIG. 1) for actuating the rotation restraining device (42) between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0181] Referring to FIGS. 2-15, features of exemplary embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20) and/or its components are described in further detail. In the exemplary embodiments, the drilling apparatus (20) may be included as one or more components of a bottom-hole assembly (12) in a drill string (10) of the type depicted in FIG. 1.

[0182] In the exemplary embodiments which are described in connection with FIGS. 2-15, the drilling apparatus (20) may further comprise a drilling assembly such as the drilling assembly (30) which is depicted in FIG. 1, but which is not depicted in FIGS. 2-15. Alternatively, the drilling assembly may be a component of the drill string (10) and/or the bottom-hole assembly (12) which is separate from the drilling apparatus (20).

[0183] In the exemplary embodiments, the drilling apparatus (20) comprises the drilling apparatus housing (28), and the drilling assembly (30) comprises the drilling assembly housing (32). In the exemplary embodiments, the drilling assembly housing (32) may be a component of the drilling apparatus housing (28).

[0184] Referring to FIGS. 2-6, an exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20) is depicted. The drilling apparatus (20) comprises the swivel (40) and the rotation restraining device (42). Referring to FIGS. 3A-3F, the drilling apparatus (20) further comprises a swivel actuator (44) and a rotation restraining device actuator (46).

[0185] As depicted in FIGS. 2, 3A, and 3B, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel (40) comprises a proximal swivel component (50) and a distal swivel component (52). FIG. 4 depicts the proximal swivel component (50) in isolation. When the swivel (40) is in the locked position, the proximal swivel component (50) is non-rotatably connected with the distal swivel component (52). When the swivel (40) is in the unlocked position, the proximal swivel component (50) is rotatable relative to the distal swivel component (52). FIGS. 3A-3F depict the swivel (40) in the unlocked position.

[0186] The proximal swivel component (50) comprises a proximal end (56) and a distal end (58). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the proximal end (56) of the proximal swivel component (50) is non-rotatably connectable directly or indirectly with the drill pipe (22).

[0187] The distal swivel component (52) comprises a proximal end (62) and a distal end (64). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the distal end (64) of the distal swivel component (52) is non-rotatably connected or connectable directly or indirectly with additional components of the drilling apparatus (20), including the drilling assembly housing (32).

[0188] Referring to FIG. 3B, the swivel actuator (44) comprises a locking element (70) for non-rotatably connecting the proximal swivel component (50) with the distal swivel component (52) when the swivel (40) is in the locked position. FIGS. 5A and 5B depict the locking element (74) in isolation.

[0189] The drilling apparatus (20) defines an apparatus bore (76). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the locking element (70) is positioned within the apparatus bore (76) and is axially movable within the apparatus bore (76) relative to both the proximal swivel component (50) and the distal swivel component (52) in order to actuate the swivel (40) between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0190] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the locking element (70) is non-rotatably coupled with the distal swivel component (52) by complementary coupling surfaces (80) comprising splines when the swivel (40) is in both the locked position and the unlocked position. The complementary coupling surfaces (80) allow axial movement of the locking element (70) relative to the distal swivel component (52) while preventing rotation of the locking element (70) relative to the distal swivel component (52).

[0191] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the proximal swivel component (50) comprises a swivel component engagement surface (82) and the locking element (70) comprises a locking element engagement surface (84) for non-rotatably connecting the proximal swivel component (50) with the locking element (70) when the swivel (40) is in the locked position. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel component engagement surface (82) and the locking element engagement surface (84) comprise complementary splines.

[0192] When the swivel (40) is in the locked position, the swivel component engagement surface (82) is engaged with the locking element engagement surface (84) so that the proximal swivel component (50) is non-rotatably connected with the locking element (70). When the swivel (40) is in the unlocked position as shown in FIG. 3B, the swivel component engagement surface (82) is disengaged from the locking element engagement surface (84) so that the proximal swivel component (50) is rotatable relative to the locking element (70). As a result, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), when the swivel (40) is in the locked position the locking element (70) is non-rotatably connected with both the proximal swivel component (50) and the distal swivel component (52), so that the proximal swivel component (50) is non-rotatably connected with the distal swivel component (52).

[0193] The swivel actuator (44) may further comprise additional components for axially moving the locking element (70) within the apparatus bore (76). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) further comprises a mandrel (116). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel (116) is positioned within the apparatus bore (76) and is axially movable within the apparatus bore (76). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel (116) comprises a mandrel bore (118) so that a circulating fluid can pass through the drilling apparatus (20) via the mandrel bore (118).

[0194] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the locking element (70) is axially movable by the mandrel (116) to actuate the swivel (40) between the locked position and the unlocked position. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the locking element (70) is connected with the mandrel (116) by a coupler (120) so that axial movement of the mandrel (116) causes axial movement of the locking element (70).

[0195] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel (40) is in the locked position when the mandrel (116) is in an axial first mandrel position, and the swivel (40) is in the unlocked position when the mandrel (116) is in an axial second mandrel position. The mandrel (116) is axially positioned relatively toward the proximal end (24) of the drilling apparatus (20) when the mandrel (116) is in the axial first mandrel position. The mandrel (116) is axially positioned relatively toward the distal end (26) of the drilling apparatus (20) when the mandrel (116) is in the axial second mandrel position. FIGS. 3A-3F depict the mandrel (116) in the axial second mandrel position.

[0196] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel (116) is axially movable within the apparatus bore (76) in response to a threshold actuating force acting on the mandrel (116). More particularly, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel (116) is axially movable within the apparatus bore (76) in response to a threshold actuating force acting on the mandrel (116) which results from circulating a circulating fluid such as a drilling fluid (not shown) through the drilling apparatus (20) via the mandrel bore (118) and the apparatus bore (76). The threshold actuating force may be achieved by increasing the flowrate and/or the pressure of the circulating fluid passing through the drilling apparatus.

[0197] In this regard, referring to FIGS. 3B and 3F, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel (116) comprises an upper mandrel piston (122) and a lower mandrel piston (123).

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3F, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the effective cross-sectional area of the upper mandrel piston (122) is greater than the effective cross-sectional area of the lower mandrel piston (123) so that an equal pressure exerted on the upper mandrel piston (122) and the lower mandrel piston (123) will result in a greater axial force being exerted on the upper mandrel piston (122) than on the lower mandrel piston (123), thereby urging the mandrel toward the axial second mandrel position.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 3B, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel (116) defines a plurality of mandrel ports (124) adjacent to the upper mandrel piston (122) for providing pressure communication between the interior of the mandrel bore (118) and the exterior of the mandrel bore (118) so that the upper mandrel piston (122) is exposed to the pressure of the circulating fluid within the mandrel bore (118).

[0200] Referring to FIG. 3F, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the lower mandrel piston (123) comprises a bitjet (125) which is positioned within the mandrel bore (118) and creates a pressure drop adjacent to the lower mandrel piston (123). Because of the configuration of the mandrel pistons (122, 123), the presence of the mandrel ports (124) adjacent to the upper mandrel piston (122), and the presence of the bitjet (125) at the lower mandrel piston (123), the net force acting on the mandrel (116) which results from circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus (20) will tend to urge the mandrel (116) toward the distal end (26) of the drilling apparatus (20) and toward the axial second mandrel position.

[0201] As depicted in FIGS. 3B-3C, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) further comprises a mandrel biasing device (128) for urging the mandrel (116) toward the proximal end (24) of the drilling apparatus (20) and toward the axial first mandrel position. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus, the mandrel biasing device (128) is configured so that the biasing force provided by the mandrel biasing device (128) offsets the net force acting on the mandrel (116) which results from circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus (20) under normal drilling conditions, and so that the biasing force provided by the mandrel biasing device (128) can be overcome by increasing the flowrate and/or the pressure of the circulating fluid passing through the drilling apparatus (20) in order to increase the net force acting on the mandrel (116) to the threshold actuating force.

[0202] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the mandrel biasing device (128) comprises a spring positioned within the apparatus bore (76). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) further comprises a stop (130) which is fixedly mounted on the drilling apparatus housing (28) and projects within the apparatus bore (76). One end of the spring engages the stop (130) and the other end of the spring engages the mandrel (116) in order to urge the mandrel (116) toward the proximal end (24) of the drilling apparatus (20) and toward the axial first mandrel position.

[0203] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) comprises an indexing mechanism (132) for achieving, maintaining, and/or controlling the desired axial positions of the mandrel (116). More particularly, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the indexing mechanism (132) assists in enabling the mandrel (116) to achieve and maintain the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

[0204] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the indexing mechanism (132) comprises a barrel cam assembly (134) positioned within the apparatus bore (76). The barrel cam assembly (134) comprises a barrel cam (136) and a barrel cam pin (138). FIGS. 6A and 6B depict the barrel cam (136) in isolation.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 3E, 6A, and 6B, the barrel cam (136) is rotatably mounted on the mandrel (116). The barrel cam pin (138) is fixedly mounted on the drilling apparatus housing (28) and projects within the apparatus bore (76). The barrel cam (136) defines a circumferential track (140) for the barrel cam pin (138). The barrel cam (136) is axially movable by the mandrel (116) and rotatable relative to the mandrel (116) so that the barrel cam pin (138) can follow the circumferential track (140) as the barrel cam (136) moves axially and rotates relative to the barrel cam pin (138).

[0206] As depicted in FIG. 6A, the circumferential track (140) includes steps (141) which force the barrel cam pin (138) to move in a single direction along the circumferential track (140). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the circumferential track (140) defines a plurality of first positions (142) which correspond to the axial first mandrel position and a plurality of second positions (144) which correspond to the axial second mandrel position. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the plurality of first positions (142) and second positions (144) alternate along the circumferential track (140). In other embodiments, the circumferential track (140) may further define one or more intermediate positions between the first position (142) and the second position (144), which may correspond to additional axial mandrel positions of the mandrel (116).

[0207] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), during normal drilling conditions the barrel cam pin (138) will be positioned either at one of the first positions (142) or one of the second positions (144) as a result of the biasing force provided by the mandrel biasing device (128). When the pressure and/or flow of the circulating fluid passing through the drilling apparatus (20) increases above the pressure and/or flow during normal drilling conditions such that the biasing force provided by the mandrel biasing device (128) is overcome, the barrel cam pin (138) moves out of the first position (142) or the second position (144) and travels along the circumferential track (140). When the increased pressure and/or flow of the circulating fluid ceases, the barrel cam pin (138) will travel along the circumferential track (140) to the next first position (142) or second position (144) in order to achieve and maintain either the axial first mandrel position or the axial second mandrel position.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3D, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the rotation restraining device (42) comprises a plurality of borehole engagement members (90). As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3D, the borehole engagement members (90) comprise blocks. In other embodiments, the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) may comprise blades, pads or some other suitable structure, device, or apparatus.

[0209] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) are radially movable by the rotation restraining device actuator (46) to actuate the rotation restraining device (42) between the retracted position and the extended position. In the extended position, rotation of the drilling assembly housing (32) relative to the borehole may be inhibited in part by friction between the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) and the borehole wall produced by pushing the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) against the borehole wall. FIGS. 3A-3F depict the rotation restraining device (42) in the extended position.

[0210] As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3D, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), each borehole engagement member (90) comprises a radial extension member (94). The radial extension member (94) may assist the rotation restraining device (42) in maintaining contact with the borehole wall and may assist in providing a constant force against the borehole wall.

[0211] The radial extension members (94) may be extendably biased. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), each of the radial extension members (94) is extendably biased by an extension member biasing device (96). As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3D, each extension member biasing device (96) comprises two helical springs. The springs may be selected to provide a desired pre-load to help control the minimum and maximum contact force with the borehole wall. In other embodiments, the extension member biasing device (96) may comprise any number of springs and any type of springs and/or the extension member biasing device (96) may comprise any other suitable structure, device, or apparatus. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), each borehole engagement member (90) comprises two cavities (98) defined in the borehole engagement member (90) for carrying the two helical springs.

[0212] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the outer surface of each borehole engagement member (90) comprises a borehole engagement surface (100) for contacting a borehole wall when the rotation restraining device (42) is in the extended position. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the borehole engagement surfaces (100) are provided by engagement inserts (102) which are mounted in the outer surface of each of the radial extension members (94) for enhancing the engagement between the rotation restraining device (42) and the borehole wall by increased friction and/or by penetration of the borehole wall.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 3D, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the rotation restraining device actuator (46) comprises a ramp (106) defining a plurality of inclined ramp surfaces (108). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the ramp (106) and the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) define complementary inclined surfaces (110) so that the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) are radially movable by the ramp (106) to actuate the rotation restraining device (42) between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0214] In the exemplary embodiment, the ramp (106) is positioned within the apparatus bore (76) and is axially movable within the apparatus bore (76) relative to the plurality of borehole engagement members (90) in order to actuate the rotation restraining device (42) between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0215] The rotation restraining device actuator (46) may further comprise additional components for axially moving the ramp (106) within the apparatus bore (76). In some embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) and the rotation restraining device actuator (46) may be separate from each other and/or may operate independently so that some functions of the actuators (44, 46) may be duplicated in the drilling apparatus (20). Alternatively, in some embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) and the rotation restraining device actuator (46) may share some components in order to avoid duplication and/or in order to coordinate the actuation of the swivel (40) and the rotation restraining device (42).

[0216] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the rotation restraining device actuator (46) further comprises components of the swivel actuator (44) as previously described, including the mandrel (116), the mandrel biasing device (128), and the indexing mechanism (132), with the result that the mandrel (116), the mandrel biasing device (128), and the indexing mechanism (132) are shared between the swivel actuator (44) and the rotation restraining device actuator (46).

[0217] More particularly, referring to FIGS. 3A-3F, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel actuator (44) and the rotation restraining device actuator (46) comprise a combined actuator (114). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the combined actuator (114) combines some functions and features of the swivel actuator (44) and the rotation restraining device actuator (46) as previously described.

[0218] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20) comprising the combined actuator (114), the locking element (70) and the ramp (106) are both associated with the mandrel (116) such that axial movement of the mandrel (116) causes axial movement of both the locking element (70) and the ramp (106). As previously described, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the locking element (70) is connected with the mandrel (116) by the coupler (120) so that axial movement of the mandrel (116) causes axial movement of the locking element (70). In addition, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the ramp (106) is integrally formed with the mandrel (116) so that axial movement of the mandrel (116) causes axial movement of the ramp (106).

[0219] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20) comprising the combined actuator (114), when the mandrel (116) is in the axial first mandrel position, the swivel (40) is in the locked position and the rotation restraining device (42) is in the retracted position. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20) comprising the combined actuator (114), when the mandrel (116) is in the axial second mandrel position, the swivel (40) is in the unlocked position and the rotation restraining device (42) is in the extended position. FIGS. 3A-3F depict the mandrel (116) in the axial second mandrel position wherein the swivel (40) is in the unlocked position and the rotation restraining device (42) is in the extended position.

[0220] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), some components of the drilling apparatus (20) are isolated from a circulating fluid passing through the drilling apparatus (20) and are immersed in lubricating fluid compartments containing a suitable lubricating fluid such as an oil. In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the drilling apparatus (20) comprises one or more seals and/or seal assemblies for defining the lubricating fluid compartments.

[0221] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a proximal lubricating fluid compartment (146) is axially defined between a proximal rotary seal assembly (150) and a proximal balance piston (147). Referring to FIG. 3A, the proximal rotary seal assembly (150) comprises a rotary seal housing (152), a mud barrier seal (154), and an oil/oil pressure seal (156). In other embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20), the proximal seal assembly (150) may be modified, simplified, or substituted for a seal assembly at a different axial location in the drilling apparatus (20). Referring to FIG. 3B, seals (157) are provided on the proximal balance piston (147) to seal the apparatus bore (76) between the drilling apparatus housing (28) and the locking element (70). The proximal lubricating fluid compartment (146) may be filled with oil via a proximal oil fill port (not shown) in the drilling apparatus housing (28).

[0222] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), some parts of the swivel (40) and the combined actuator (114) are contained in the proximal lubricating fluid compartment (146).

[0223] Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3E, a distal lubricating fluid compartment (148) is axially defined between the upper mandrel piston (122) and a distal balance piston (149). Referring to FIG. 3B, seals (158) are provided on the upper mandrel piston (122) to seal the interface between the drilling apparatus housing (28) and the upper mandrel piston (122). Referring to FIG. 3E, seals (159) are provided on the distal balance piston (149) to seal the apparatus bore (76) between the drilling apparatus housing (28) and the mandrel (116). Referring to FIG. 3D, seals (160) are provided on the borehole engagement members (100) to seal the interface between the drilling apparatus housing (28) and the borehole engagement members (100). The distal lubricating fluid compartment (148) may be filled with oil via a distal oil fill port (not shown) in the drilling apparatus housing (28).

[0224] In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), some parts of the rotation restraining device (42) and the combined actuator (114) are contained in the distal lubricating fluid compartment (148).

[0225] Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3E, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the drilling apparatus (20) comprises pressure balancing systems associated with each of the lubricating fluid compartments (146, 148). More particularly, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the drilling apparatus (20) comprises a proximal pressure balancing system (162) which is associated with the proximal lubricating fluid compartment (146) and a distal pressure balancing system (163) which is associated with the distal lubricating fluid compartment (148).

[0226] Referring to FIG. 3B, the proximal pressure balancing system (162) comprises the proximal balance piston (147) and the mandrel ports (118). One end of the proximal balance piston (147) is in pressure communication with the mandrel bore (118) via the mandrel ports (124) and the other end of the proximal balance piston (147) is in pressure communication with the proximal lubricating fluid compartment (146).

[0227] Referring to FIG. 3E, the distal pressure balancing system (163) comprises the distal balance piston (149) and a distal pressure balancing port (164). One end of the distal balance piston (149) is in pressure communication with the exterior of the drilling apparatus housing (28) via the distal pressure balancing port (164) and the other end of the distal balance piston (149) is in pressure communication with the distal lubricating fluid compartment (148).

[0228] In embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20) in which isolated lubricating fluid compartments are not provided, the seals and/or sealing assemblies and the pressure balancing systems may be modified, simplified, or may in some cases be omitted altogether.

[0229] The drilling apparatus (20) may comprise one or more bearing assemblies for transmitting axial and/or radial loads through the drilling apparatus (20).

[0230] Referring to FIG. 3A, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the drilling apparatus (20) comprises a swivel bearing assembly (165) which is interposed between the proximal swivel component (50) and the distal swivel component (52). The swivel bearing assembly (165) comprises a swivel bearing housing (166), at least one radial bearing (167), at least one thrust bearing (168), and a shaft catch (169) for preventing the proximal swivel component (50) from being separated from the other components of the drilling apparatus (20). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), one end of the swivel bearing housing (166) is connected with the rotary seal housing (152) and the other end of the swivel bearing housing (166) is connected with the proximal end (62) of the distal swivel component (52). In other embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20), the swivel bearing assembly (165) may be modified or simplified.

[0231] In some embodiments, the drilling apparatus (20) may comprise one or more bearing assemblies (not shown) in addition to or in substitution for the swivel bearing assembly (165). As non-limiting examples, one or more bearing assemblies (not shown) may be located proximal to, distal to, or within the drilling assembly (30).

[0232] In some embodiments of the drilling apparatus (20), the drilling apparatus may comprise one or more signaling devices for generating and/or providing signals relating to the operation of the drilling apparatus (20). Referring to FIG. 3F, in the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the drilling apparatus (20) comprises a signaling device (176) for indicating the actuation state of the swivel (40) and the rotation restraining device (42). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), the signaling device (176) comprises a variable choke device comprising an orifice (178) and a choke member (180).

[0233] The orifice (178) and the choke member (180) are movable relative to one another to provide a varying restriction of flow of a circulating fluid through the orifice (178). In the exemplary embodiment of the drilling apparatus (20), an end of the mandrel (116) comprises the orifice (178), and the choke member (180) is fixedly mounted within the apparatus bore (76) proximate the end of the mandrel (116), such that axial movement of the mandrel (116) varies the relative axial positions of the orifice (178) and the choke member (180), and such that the flow of a circulating fluid through the mandrel bore (118) is restricted by varying amounts depending upon the axial position of the mandrel (116). A change in the restriction of the flow results in a pressure variation, generating a pressure signal which can be sensed in order to determine the actuation state of the swivel (40) and the rotation restraining device (42).

[0234] FIG. 7 depicts a first alternate embodiment of a rotation restraining device (42) and a rotation restraining device actuator (46) which may be used in the drilling apparatus (20). In the first alternate embodiment, the rotation restraining device (42) comprises a borehole engagement member (90) comprising a pad (182) carried by three pistons (184). The ramp (106) and each of the pistons (180) comprise complementary inclined surfaces (110) so that the borehole engagement member (90) is radially movable by the ramp (106) in order to actuate the rotation restraining device (42) between the retracted position and the extended position. As depicted in FIG. 7, in the first alternate embodiment, the ramp (106) is not integral with the mandrel (116) but is mounted on the mandrel (116).

[0235] FIGS. 8-10 depict a second alternate embodiment of a rotation restraining device (42) and a rotation restraining device actuator (46). In the second alternate embodiment, the rotation restraining device (42) comprises a plurality of borehole engagement members (90). The outer surface of each of the borehole engagement members (90) comprises a borehole engagement surface (100). In the second alternate embodiment, the rotation restraining device actuator (46) comprises a valve mechanism (186) for selectively delivering a fluid actuating pressure to the rotation restraining device (42) in order to actuate the rotation restraining device (42) between the retracted position and the extended position. In the second alternate embodiment of the rotation restraining device (42), the fluid actuating pressure is derived from a circulating fluid such as a drilling fluid passing through the drilling apparatus (20).

[0236] In the second alternate embodiment, the valve mechanism (186) comprises a rotary sleeve shaft (188), a rotary sleeve (190), and a flow manifold (192). The rotary sleeve shaft (188) is keyed to the barrel cam (134) so that the rotary sleeve shaft (188) rotates with the barrel cam (134). The rotary sleeve shaft (188) and the rotary sleeve (190) are connected with complementary splines (194) so that the rotary sleeve (190) rotates with the barrel cam (134) relative to the flow manifold (192). The valve mechanism (186) further comprises one or more slots (196) defined by the rotary sleeve (190) and a valve mechanism port (198) defined by the flow manifold (192). The one or more slots (196) and the valve mechanism port (186) move into and out of circumferential alignment as the rotary sleeve (190) rotates relative to the flow manifold (192). When the one or more slots (196) are in circumferential alignment with the valve mechanism port (186), the mandrel bore (118) is in fluid communication with the valve mechanism port (198).

[0237] As depicted in FIG. 10, the second alternate embodiment further comprises an actuation chamber (202) which is in pressure communication with both the valve mechanism (186) and the plurality of borehole engagement members (90). The actuation chamber (202) is in fluid communication with the valve mechanism (186) via the valve mechanism port (198).

[0238] The valve mechanism (186) may be actuated between an open position, as depicted in FIG. 9A, and a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 9B. In the open position, a portion of a circulating fluid passing through the mandrel bore (118) is redirected in order to deliver a first fluid actuating pressure to the actuation chamber (202) so that the rotation restraining device (42) is actuated to the extended position as depicted in FIG. 10. In the closed position, the portion of the fluid passing through the mandrel bore (118) is not redirected in order to deliver a second fluid actuating pressure to the actuation chamber (202) so that the rotation restraining device (42) is actuated to the retracted position.

[0239] FIG. 11 depicts an alternate embodiment of the signaling device (176). In the alternate embodiment, an end of the mandrel (116) comprises the choke member (180), and the orifice (178) is fixedly mounted within the apparatus bore (76) proximate the end of the mandrel (116), such that axial movement of the mandrel (116) results in a variation in the relative axial positions of the orifice (178) and the choke member (180), and such that the flow of a circulating fluid through the mandrel bore (118) is restricted by varying amounts depending upon the axial position of the mandrel (116).

[0240] FIG. 12 depicts a first alternate exemplary embodiment of a swivel bearing configuration for the drilling apparatus (20). In the first alternate embodiment, the proximal swivel component (50) comprises a first proximal swivel component (206) and a second proximal swivel component (208) connected by a joint (210). The joint (210) may connect the first proximal swivel component (206) and the second proximal swivel component (208) by threads or by an interference fit. In the first alternate embodiment, a radial bearing (164) and two thrust bearings (166) are axially located along the first proximal swivel component (206) and the locking element (70) is axially located along the second proximal swivel component (208).

[0241] FIG. 13 depicts a second alternate exemplary embodiment of a swivel bearing configuration of the drilling apparatus (20). In the second alternate embodiment, a radial bearing (164) is axially located on either side of the locking element (70) and a thrust bearing (166) is axially located on either side of the shaft catch (168). In the second alternate embodiment, the proximal balance piston (147) is axially located at the proximal end (62) of the distal swivel component (52).

[0242] FIG. 14 depicts a third alternate exemplary embodiment of a swivel bearing configuration of the drilling apparatus (20). In the third alternate embodiment, two radial bearings (164) and two thrust bearings (166) are axially located between the locking element (70) and the proximal end (56) of the proximal swivel component (50). In the third alternate embodiment, the proximal balance piston (147) is axially located between the two radial bearings (164).

[0243] FIG. 15 depicts a fourth alternate exemplary embodiment of a swivel bearing configuration of the drilling apparatus (20). In the fourth alternate embodiment, two radial bearings (164) and a thrust bearing (166) are axially located between the locking element (70) and the proximal end (56) of the proximal swivel component (50). In the fourth alternate embodiment, the proximal balance piston (147) is axially located between the two radial bearings (164).

[0244] The following are non-limiting, specific embodiments of the apparatus described herein:

[0245] Embodiment A. A drilling apparatus connectable with a drill pipe and connectable with a drilling assembly comprising a drilling assembly housing, for use in drilling a borehole, comprising: [0246] a rotation restraining device actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the rotation restraining device is connected with the drilling assembly housing such that rotation of the drilling assembly housing relative to the borehole is inhibited when the drilling apparatus is in the borehole and the rotation restraining device is in the extended position; [0247] a rotation restraining device actuator for actuating the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position; [0248] a swivel actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the drilling assembly housing is rotatable with the drill pipe when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the drill pipe is rotatable relative to the drilling assembly housing when the swivel is in the unlocked position; and [0249] a swivel actuator for actuating the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0250] Embodiment B. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment A, wherein the drilling apparatus comprises the drilling assembly.

[0251] Embodiment C. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment A or B, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a directional drilling assembly for use in directional drilling.

[0252] Embodiment D. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to C, wherein the swivel comprises a proximal swivel component non-rotatably connectable with the drill pipe and a distal swivel component non-rotatably connected with the drilling assembly housing, wherein the proximal swivel component is non-rotatably connected with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the proximal swivel component is rotatably connected with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the unlocked position.

[0253] Embodiment E. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment D, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a locking element which non-rotatably connects the proximal swivel component with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

[0254] Embodiment F. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment E, wherein the locking element is movable relative to at least one of the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0255] Embodiment G. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment E or F, wherein the locking element is non-rotatably connected with one of the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component when the swivel is in both the locked position and the unlocked position, and wherein the locking element is non-rotatably connected with both the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

[0256] Embodiment H. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments E to G, wherein the locking element comprises a locking element engagement surface, wherein the swivel comprises a swivel component engagement surface, wherein the locking element engagement surface is engaged with the swivel component engagement surface when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the locking element engagement surface is disengaged from the swivel component engagement surface when the swivel is in the unlocked position.

[0257] Embodiment I. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment H, wherein the locking element engagement surface and the swivel component engagement surface comprise complementary splines.

[0258] Embodiment J. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments E to I, wherein the locking element is axially movable relative to at least one of the proximal swivel component and the distal swivel component to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0259] Embodiment K. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments E to J, wherein the drilling apparatus defines an apparatus bore, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the locking element is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the locking element is movable by the mandrel to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0260] Embodiment L. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment K, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore.

[0261] Embodiment M. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment K, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

[0262] Embodiment N. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments K to M, wherein the swivel is in the locked position when the mandrel is in an axial first mandrel position, and wherein the swivel is in the unlocked position when the mandrel is in an axial second mandrel position.

[0263] Embodiment O. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments K to N, wherein the swivel actuator comprises an indexing mechanism for maintaining the mandrel in the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

[0264] Embodiment P. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment O, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises a barrel cam assembly comprising a barrel cam and a barrel cam pin, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable and rotatable relative to the barrel cam pin.

[0265] Embodiment Q. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment P, wherein the barrel cam assembly is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable by the mandrel.

[0266] Embodiment R. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to Q, wherein the rotation restraining device comprises at least one borehole engagement member, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the rotation restraining device actuator to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0267] Embodiment S. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment R, wherein the at least one borehole engagement member comprises a radial extension member, and wherein the radial extension member is extendably biased.

[0268] Embodiment T. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment R or S, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a ramp, wherein the ramp and the at least one borehole engagement member define complementary inclined surfaces, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the ramp to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0269] Embodiment U. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment T, wherein the ramp is axially movable relative to the at least one borehole engagement member.

[0270] Embodiment V. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment T or U, wherein the drilling apparatus defines an apparatus bore, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the ramp is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the ramp is movable by the mandrel to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0271] Embodiment W. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment V, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore.

[0272] Embodiment X. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment V, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

[0273] Embodiment Y. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments V to X, wherein the rotation restraining device is in the retracted position when the mandrel is in an axial first mandrel position, and wherein the rotation restraining device is in the extended position when the mandrel is in an axial second mandrel position.

[0274] Embodiment Z. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments V to Y, wherein the swivel actuator comprises an indexing mechanism for maintaining the mandrel in the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

[0275] Embodiment AA. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment Z, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises a barrel cam assembly comprising a barrel cam and a barrel cam pin, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable and rotatable relative to the barrel cam pin.

[0276] Embodiment BB. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment AA, wherein the barrel cam assembly is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable by the mandrel.

[0277] Embodiment CC. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to BB, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator and the swivel actuator comprise a combined actuator.

[0278] Embodiment DD. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment CC, wherein the combined actuator comprises a locking element which non-rotatably connects the proximal swivel component with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

[0279] Embodiment EE. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment CC or DD, wherein the rotation restraining device comprises at least one borehole engagement member, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the combined actuator to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0280] Embodiment FF. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment EE, wherein the combined actuator comprises a ramp, wherein the ramp and the at least one borehole engagement member define complementary inclined surfaces, and wherein the at least one borehole engagement member is radially movable by the ramp to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0281] Embodiment GG. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments CC to FF, wherein the combined actuator comprises a locking element which non-rotatably connects the proximal swivel component with the distal swivel component when the swivel is in the locked position.

[0282] Embodiment HH. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment GG, wherein the drilling apparatus defines an apparatus bore, wherein the combined actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the locking element and the ramp are positioned within the apparatus bore, wherein the locking element is movable by the mandrel to actuate the swivel between the locked position and the unlocked position, and wherein the ramp is movable by the mandrel to actuate the rotation restraining device between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0283] Embodiment II. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment HH, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore.

[0284] Embodiment JJ. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment HH, wherein the mandrel is axially movable within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

[0285] Embodiment KK. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments HH to JJ, wherein the swivel is in the locked position and the rotation restraining device is in the retracted position when the mandrel is in an axial first mandrel position, and wherein the swivel is in the unlocked position and the rotation restraining device is in the extended position when the mandrel is in an axial second mandrel position.

[0286] Embodiment LL. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments HH to KK, wherein the combined actuator comprises an indexing mechanism for maintaining the mandrel in the axial first mandrel position and the axial second mandrel position.

[0287] Embodiment MM. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment LL, wherein the indexing mechanism comprises a barrel cam assembly comprising a barrel cam and a barrel cam pin, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable and rotatable relative to the barrel cam pin.

[0288] Embodiment NN. The drilling apparatus of Embodiment MM, wherein the barrel cam assembly is positioned within the apparatus bore, and wherein the barrel cam is axially movable by the mandrel.

[0289] Embodiment OO. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to NN, wherein the directional drilling assembly comprises a drilling motor.

[0290] Embodiment PP. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to OO, wherein the directional drilling assembly defines a toolface direction for directional drilling.

[0291] Embodiment QQ. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to PP, wherein the drilling apparatus comprises a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the directional drilling assembly and the rotation restraining device are axially located between the swivel and the distal end of the drilling apparatus.

[0292] Embodiment RR. The drilling apparatus of any one of Embodiments A to QQ, wherein the rotation restraining device is axially located between the swivel and the directional drilling assembly.

[0293] Embodiment SS. A method for drilling a borehole, comprising: [0294] connecting a drilling assembly with a drill pipe, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a drilling assembly housing; [0295] drilling while rotating the drill pipe and thereby rotating the drilling assembly housing; and [0296] drilling while rotating the drill pipe relative to the drilling assembly housing.

[0297] Embodiment TT. The method of Embodiment SS, wherein drilling the borehole is performed using a drilling apparatus comprising: [0298] the drilling assembly, wherein the drilling assembly comprises a directional drilling assembly; [0299] a rotation restraining device actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the rotation restraining device is connected with the drilling assembly housing such that rotation of the drilling assembly housing relative to the borehole is inhibited when the drilling apparatus is in the borehole and the rotation restraining device is in the extended position; and [0300] a swivel actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the drilling assembly housing is rotatable with the drill pipe when the swivel is in the locked position, and wherein the drill pipe is rotatable relative to the drilling assembly housing when the swivel is in the unlocked position.

[0301] Embodiment UU. The method of Embodiment SS or TT, comprising performing non-directional drilling when drilling while rotating the drill pipe and thereby rotating the drilling assembly housing, and comprising performing directional drilling when drilling while rotating the drill pipe relative to the drilling assembly housing.

[0302] Embodiment VV. The method of Embodiment TT or UU, wherein during the non-directional drilling the rotation restraining device is actuated to the retracted position and the swivel is actuated to the locked position, and wherein during the directional drilling the rotation restraining device is actuated to the extended position and the swivel is actuated to the unlocked position.

[0303] Embodiment WW. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to VV, comprising actuating the rotation restraining device to the retracted position and actuating the swivel to the locked position before commencing the non-directional drilling.

[0304] Embodiment XX. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to WW, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device to the retracted position and actuating the swivel to the locked position is performed while the drill pipe is not rotating.

[0305] Embodiment YY. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to VV, comprising actuating the rotation restraining device to the extended position and actuating the swivel to the unlocked position before commencing the directional drilling.

[0306] Embodiment ZZ. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to YY, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device to the extended position and actuating the swivel to the unlocked position is performed while the drill pipe is not rotating.

[0307] Embodiment AAA. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to YY, comprising actuating the rotation restraining device to the retracted position and actuating the swivel to the locked position before commencing the non-directional drilling.

[0308] Embodiment BBB. The method of any one of Embodiments SS to AAA, comprising repeating at least one of the non-directional drilling and the directional drilling.

[0309] Embodiment CCC. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to BBB, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device is performed by a rotation restraining device actuator.

[0310] Embodiment DDD. The method of Embodiment CCC, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device comprises moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

[0311] Embodiment EEE. The method of Embodiment CCC, wherein the rotation restraining device actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device comprises axially moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

[0312] Embodiment FFF. The method of Embodiment DDD or EEE, wherein the mandrel is axially moved within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

[0313] Embodiment GGG. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to FFF, wherein actuating the swivel is performed by a swivel actuator.

[0314] Embodiment HHH. The method of Embodiment GGG, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the swivel comprises moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

[0315] Embodiment III. The method of Embodiment GGG, wherein the swivel actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the swivel comprises axially moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

[0316] Embodiment JJJ. The method of Embodiment HHH or III, wherein the mandrel is axially moved within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.

[0317] Embodiment KKK. The method of any one of Embodiments TT to JJJ, wherein actuating the rotation restraining device and actuating the swivel is performed by a combined actuator.

[0318] Embodiment LLL. The method of Embodiment KKK, wherein the combined actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device and the swivel comprises moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

[0319] Embodiment MMM. The method of Embodiment KKK, wherein the combined actuator comprises a mandrel positioned within an apparatus bore of the drilling apparatus, and wherein actuating the rotation restraining device and the swivel comprises axially moving the mandrel within the apparatus bore.

[0320] Embodiment NNN. The method of any one of Embodiment LLL or MMM, wherein the mandrel is axially moved within the apparatus bore in response to circulating a circulating fluid through the drilling apparatus.