WHIPSTOCK ORIENTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD
A whipstock assembly (10) and method of operation is disclosed that automatically orients itself within a wellbore (12) to a known first rotational position. The whipstock assembly (10) is mounted on bearings (14, 16, 18, 20) that permit free rotation of the whipstock assembly (10) within the wellbore (12). Due to gravitational forces, the eccentric weight load of the whipstock (22) will automatically orient itself on the low side of the wellbore (12). A lower orientation section (30) of the whipstock assembly (10) is clamped into that a first rotational position such as by a lower packer and/or slips. The whipstock (22) is then rotated to the desired orientation by reciprocating the wellbore string (55). The whipstock (22) is then clamped into the desired rotational position by activating an upper packer and/or slips. The running tool (50) is removed and drilling or milling can be initiated.