Retention system for retaining deck bushing of drilling machine

Abstract

A retention system includes at least one retention arm assembly movable relative to a mast weldment between a stowed position and an engaged position. When the at least one retention arm assembly is in the stowed position, the at least one retention arm assembly is disengaged from a deck bushing of a drilling machine. When the at least one retention arm assembly is in the engaged position, the at least one retention arm assembly is engaged with the deck bushing to retain the deck bushing in a raised state. The retention system also includes at least one actuator adapted to move the at least one retention arm assembly between the stowed position and the engaged position. The at least one actuator is coupled to the mast weldment at a first end and to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a drilling machine, and more particularly, to a retention system for retaining a deck bushing of the drilling machine and a method for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine.BACKGROUND

[0002] A drilling machine includes a drill string having a work tool for performing drilling operations at a worksite. The drill string includes one or more connected drill pipes, cross-over adaptors, and the work tool which is connected to a bottom of a formation. The work tool may include a rotary drill bit or a down-the-hole drill bit. The drill pipe is connected to a rotary head of the drilling machine for performing a drilling operation. Further, many a times, a drill pipe adaptor connects the work tool with the drill pipe.

[0003] The drilling machine includes a deck bushing that provides horizontal stabilization to the drill string as the drill string passes through a deck of the drilling machine. The deck bushing is disposed around the drill string and guides the drill string during drilling. When the work tool is to be inspected and / or replaced, a manual procedure is employed to prevent the deck bushing from slipping out of the drill string. Further, the deck bushing is to be retained a few inches above the work tool during a replacement process of the work tool. Conventionally, many a times operators have to manually lift the heavy deck bushing.

[0004] The manual procedure of holding the deck bushing in contact with the drill string includes halting of the drilling operation and manually inserting a horseshoe plate to secure the deck bushing on the drill string. Subsequently, an operator returns to an operator station of the drilling machine to continue the replacement process of the work tool. Further, after the work tool is replaced, the operator has to manually disengage the horseshoe tool from the deck bushing. Such a manual procedure of retaining the deck bushing is time-consuming as it involves multiple process steps, live work, considerable operator efforts, and may cause operator fatigue.

[0005] U.S. Application Number 2016 / 0290072 describes a device for holding a bush member with a drill column of a machine is disclosed. The device includes a first member adapted to engage with the bush member. The device also includes a second member spaced apart from the first member. The second member is coupled to the first member by a connecting member. The second member includes an opening to receive the drill column. The device includes a flange member removably coupled to the second member. The flange member includes a first engagement portion adapted to contact with an outer surface of the drill column having a first perimeter. The first engagement portion is supported on a step portion defined in the drill column.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a retention system for retaining a deck bushing of a drilling machine is provided. The deck bushing is movable relative to a drill string of the drilling machine. The retention system includes at least one retention arm assembly coupled to a mast weldment of the drilling machine. The at least one retention arm assembly is movable relative to the mast weldment between a stowed position and an engaged position. When the at least one retention arm assembly is in the stowed position, the at least one retention arm assembly is disengaged from the deck bushing. When the at least one retention arm assembly is in the engaged position, the at least one retention arm assembly is engaged with the deck bushing to retain the deck bushing in a raised state to facilitate an inspection and / or a replacement of a work tool from the drill string of the drilling machine. The retention system also includes at least one actuator adapted to move the at least one retention arm assembly between the stowed position and the engaged position. The at least one actuator is coupled to the mast weldment at a first end of the at least one actuator. The at least one actuator is coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator.

[0007] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a drilling machine is provided. The drilling machine includes a frame. The drilling machine also includes a mast system supported by the frame. The mast system includes a mast weldment. The drilling machine further includes a drill string. The drilling machine includes a work tool coupled to the drill string. The drilling machine also includes a deck bushing movable relative to the drill string. The drilling machine further includes a retention system for retaining the deck bushing in a raised state to facilitate an inspection and / or a replacement of the work tool from the drill string of the drilling machine. The retention system includes at least one retention arm assembly coupled to the mast weldment. The at least one retention arm assembly is movable relative to the mast weldment between a stowed position and an engaged position. When the at least one retention arm assembly is in the stowed position, the at least one retention arm assembly is disengaged from the deck bushing. When the at least one retention arm assembly is in the engaged position, the at least one retention arm assembly is engaged with the deck bushing to retain the deck bushing in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool from the drill string of the drilling machine. The retention system also includes at least one actuator adapted to move the at least one retention arm assembly between the stowed position and the engaged position. The at least one actuator is coupled to the mast weldment at a first end of the at least one actuator. The at least one actuator is coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator.

[0008] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for retaining a deck bushing of a drilling machine is provided. The deck bushing is movable relative to a drill string of the drilling machine. The method includes engaging a pipe positioner system of the drilling machine with the drill string of the drilling machine to guide and center a movement of the drill string along a vertical axis. The method also includes raising the drill string such that a work tool of the drilling machine is raised above a mast base plate of the drilling machine. The method further includes actuating at least one actuator of the drilling machine that is coupled to a mast weldment of the drilling machine at a first end of the at least one actuator. The method includes moving at least one retention arm assembly of the drilling machine from a stowed position to an engaged position, based on an actuation of the at least one actuator. The at least one retention arm assembly is coupled to the mast weldment. The at least one actuator is coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator. The method also includes engaging the at least one retention arm assembly with the deck bushing, based on a movement of the at least one retention arm assembly to the engaged position. The method further includes retaining, by the at least one retention arm assembly, the deck bushing in a raised state based on an engagement of the retention arm assembly with the deck bushing to facilitate an inspection and / or a replacement of the work tool from the drill string. The method includes disengaging the at least one retention arm assembly from the deck bushing after the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool from the drill string. The method includes reseating the deck bushing on the mast base plate. The method also includes lowering the drill string of the drilling machine to a Ready-To-Drill state or a Ready-To-Tram state.

[0009] Other features and aspects of this disclosure will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an exemplary drilling machine;

[0011] FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view of a drill string of the drilling machine of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 2B is a schematic perspective view of a lower sub adaptor of the drill string of FIG. 2A;

[0013] FIG. 2C is a schematic cross-sectional view of a deck bushing of the drilling machine in contact with the drill string of FIG. 2A;

[0014] FIG. 3A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining a deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 3B is a top sectional view illustrating a pipe positioner system of the retention system of FIG. 3A;

[0016] FIG. 3C is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention arm assembly of the retention system of FIG. 3A in an engaged position;

[0017] FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 4B is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention arm assembly of the retention system of FIG. 4A in an engaged position;

[0019] FIG. 4C is a schematic perspective view of the retention system of FIG. 4A illustrating an actuator of the retention system of FIG. 4A coupled with a mast weldment of the drilling machine;

[0020] FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective view illustrating one or more retention arm assemblies of the retention system of FIG. 5A in a stowed position;

[0022] FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective view illustrating one or more retention arm assemblies of the retention system of FIG. 6A in a stowed position;

[0024] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 7B is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a retention system for retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0027] FIG. 9 is a flowchart for a method of retaining the deck bushing of the drilling machine of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic side view of an exemplary drilling machine 100 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the drilling machine 100 is a rotary drilling machine. However, the drilling machine 100 may embody any other type of drilling machine, without any limitations. The drilling machine 100 may be a manual, an autonomous, or a semi-autonomous work machine. The drilling machine 100 may be used to perform one or more drilling operations, such as drilling holes, mining blast holes, geothermal wells, and the like. The drilling machine 100 defines a vertical axis A1.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the drilling machine 100 includes a frame 102. The frame 102 may be supported on a ground surface by a transport mechanism, such as crawler tracks 104. The crawler tracks 104 may allow the drilling machine 100 to maneuver on ground surfaces to a desired location for performing drilling operations. Alternatively, the drilling machine 100 may include wheels instead of the crawler tracks 104. The frame 102 includes one or more jacks (not shown herein) for supporting and leveling the drilling machine 100 on the ground surface during drilling operations.

[0031] The drilling machine 100 also includes a machinery 106. The frame 102 may support the machinery 106, which may include various components (not shown), such as, a power source (for example, an engine, a battery system, and / or a fuel system), motors, pumps, air compressors, and / or any other equipment necessary to supply power to operate the drilling machine 100. The frame 102 further supports an operator cabin 108, from which an operator may maneuver and control the drilling machine 100.

[0032] The drilling machine 100 includes a mast system 110 supported by the frame 102. The mast system 110 extends along the vertical axis A1. The mast system 110 includes a mast weldment 112 coupled to the frame 102.

[0033] The drilling machine 100 further includes a drill head 114 movable relative to the mast system 110. The drill head 114 is movable along the vertical axis Al and is supported on the mast system 110. The machinery 106 may provide power to operate the drill head 114 relative to the mast system 110. In some examples, the drilling machine 100 may include one or more motors (not shown) associated with the drill head 114.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 2A, the drilling machine 100 also includes a drill string 118. Only a portion of the drill string 118 is illustrated in FIG. 2A. The drill head 114 (see FIG. 1) may support the drill string 118. The drill head 114 may couple to, and rotate, the drill string 118 for performing the drilling operation. The drill string 118 defines a bottom end 134. The drilling machine 100 further includes a work tool 120 coupled to the drill string 118. Specifically, the work tool 120 is coupled to the drill string 118, proximal to the bottom end 134 of the drill string 118. The work tool 120 may allow drilling into various surfaces. The work tool 120 may include a drill bit. For example, the work tool 120 may include a rotary drill bit or a down-the-hole (DTH) drill bit. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, the work tool 120 is embodied as the rotary drill bit. Alternatively, the work tool 120 may embody any other work tool that can be used to perform drilling operations. In some examples, the work tool 120 may further include a hammer disposed between the DTH drill bit and the drill string 118.

[0035] The drill string 118 includes a drill pipe (not shown), an upper sub adaptor (not shown), and a lower sub adaptor 122. The lower sub adaptor 122 couples the work tool 120 with the drill string 118. In other words, the lower sub adaptor 122 is disposed between the drill pipe and the work tool 120 and allows coupling of the work tool 120 with the drill string 118.

[0036] Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the lower sub adaptor 122 includes a first end 136 and a second end 138. The lower sub adaptor 122 is coupled with the drill pipe proximal to the first end 136. Further, the lower sub adaptor 122 is coupled with the work tool 120 proximal to the second end 138.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2C, the drilling machine 100 includes a deck bushing 124 movable relative to the drill string 118. The deck bushing 124 is mounted on a mast base plate 125 (shown in FIG. 3A). The deck bushing 124 guides and supports the drill string 118 during the drilling operation. In an example, when the drilling machine 100 trams from hole to hole, the deck bushing 124 fits into the mast base plate 125. Further, the work tool 120, that is mounted to the second end 138 of the lower sub adaptor 122, lies below the mast base plate 125 to perform the drilling operation. The deck bushing 124 is movable relative to the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100 between a raised state and a lowered state. In the lowered state of the deck bushing 124, the deck bushing 124 may fit flat on to the mast base plate 125. The deck bushing 124 is moved to the raised state during an inspection and / or a replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. Specifically, the drill string 118 is raised to a pre-defined height during the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118.

[0038] The deck bushing 124 defines an upper end 126 and a lower end 128 opposite the upper end 126. The deck bushing 124 includes a flange 130 defined at the upper end 126 and a bottom surface 132 defined at the lower end 128. The deck bushing 124 defines an outer surface 131. The deck bushing 124 is embodied as a plain sleeve type deck bushing in FIG. 2C. However, the deck bushing 124 may embody a ball bearing sleeve type deck bushing. The deck bushing 124 includes an inner sleeve 127 and an outer sleeve 123. The inner sleeve 127 rotates with respect to the outer sleeve 123. The outer sleeve 123 may remain static on the drill string 118 during the drilling operation.

[0039] With reference to FIG. 3A, the drilling machine 100 also includes a hydraulically operated breakout (HOBO) device 140 to disengage the work tool 120 (shown in FIG. 2A) of the drilling machine 100 from the drill string 118. The HOBO device 140 includes a conventional HOBO wrench including components and mechanisms known to persons skilled in the art. The HOBO device 140 is a wrench that may be used to grip the drill string 118, and occasionally the work tool 120, to assist in a removal / attachment of the work tool 120 with the drill string 118.

[0040] The drilling machine 100 further includes a pipe rack 144 (shown partially in FIGS. 4A and 4B). The pipe rack 144 is coupled to the mast system 110 (see FIG. 1). The pipe rack 144 may be mounted on the mast weldment 112 (see FIG. 1). The pipe rack 144 includes a central support 146 (shown in FIG. 4A) and a carousel 148 (shown in FIG. 4A) coupled to the central support 146. The carousel 148 may support one or more drill strings (not shown) and / or one or more drill pipes (not shown). Specifically, the carousel 148 may include coupling provisions to support the one or more drill strings (similar to the drill string 118) and / or the one or more drill pipes. Further, the carousel 148 may dispense and assist in engagement of the drill strings and / or the drill pipes with the drill head 114 (see FIG. 1), as required.

[0041] The drilling machine 100 further includes a retention system 200 for retaining the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. The retention system 200 may be used to remove or replace the rotary drill bit, the DTH drill bit, or the hammer, as per application requirements.

[0042] With reference to FIG. 3B, the retention system 200 further includes a pipe positioner system 250. The pipe positioner system 250 is coupled to the mast weldment 112. The pipe positioner system 250 contacts the drill string 118 to guide and center a movement of the drill string 118 along the vertical axis A1. Specifically, the pipe positioner system 250 contacts the drill pipe. It should be noted that the vertical axis Al is defined as an axis that passes through a drill center hole 129 (shown in FIG. 5B) on the mast base plate 125 (see FIG. 3A). In other words, the pipe positioner system 250 centers and guides the drill string 118 to drill a hole (not shown) that is perpendicular to the mast base plate 125 and is straight in geometry.

[0043] The pipe positioner system 250 includes one or more support arms 252, 254 that contact with the drill string 118 to facilitate the movement of the drill string 118 along the vertical axis A1. Specifically, the one or more support arms 252, 254 include a first support arm 252 and a second support arm 254. Each of the first support arm 252 and the second support arm 254 are distant from each other and are disposed at an angle from each other. In some examples, each of the first support arm 252 and the second support arm 254 may be disposed opposite to each other. The first support arm 252 includes a first arm 261 and a first roller 260. The first roller 260 is coupled to the first arm 261 via one or more fastening means 264. The second support arm 254 includes a second arm 263 and a second roller 262. The second roller 262 is coupled to the second arm 263 via one or more fastening means 266. In some examples, the one or more fastening means 264, 266 may include a bolt, a screw, a rivet, and the like. One end of each of the first arm 261 and the second arm 263 is coupled with the mast system 110, whereas another end of each of the first arm 261 and the second arm 263 engages with the drill string 118.

[0044] The pipe positioner system 250 further includes a first actuator 256 associated with the first support arm 252 and a second actuator 258 associated with the second support arm 254. The first actuator 256 is coupled to the first arm 261 at one end and to the mast system 110 at another end. The second actuator 258 is coupled to the second arm 263 at one end and to the mast system 110 at another end.

[0045] Based on an extension of the first actuator 256, the first support arm 252 contacts with the drill string 118. In other words, based on the extension of the first actuator 256, the first support arm 252 moves angularly such that the first roller 260 contacts with the drill string 118. Further, based on an extension of the second actuator 258, the second support arm 254 contacts with the drill string 118. In other words, based on the extension of the second actuator 258, the second support arm 254 moves angularly such that the second roller 262 contacts with the drill string 118. It should be noted that the pipe positioner system 250 may include one or more arms with guiding elements of various geometries other than rollers 260, 262 without any limitations.

[0046] With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C, the retention system 200 also includes one or more retention arm assemblies 202 coupled to the mast weldment 112 of the drilling machine 100. The one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are movable relative to the mast weldment 112 between a stowed position P1 and an engaged position P2. The one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are illustrated in the stowed position P1 in FIG. 3A. Further, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are illustrated in the engaged position P2 in FIG. 3C. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3C, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 include a single retention arm assembly 202 that is coupled to the mast weldment 112. The one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single retention arm assembly 202”.

[0047] When the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are in the stowed position P1, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are disengaged from the deck bushing 124. Further, when the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are in the engaged position P2, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are engaged with the deck bushing 124 to retain the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 (see FIG. 2A) from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. Further, when the retention arm assembly 202 engages with the deck bushing 124, the pipe positioner system 250 (see FIG. 3B) that is in contact with the drill string 118 guides and centers the movement of the drill string 118 along the vertical axis A1 (see FIG. 1). In other words, the pipe positioner system guides the movement of the drill string 118 along the vertical axis A1 and may minimize the shifting of the drill pipe and / or the drill string 118 before the retention arm assembly 202 engages with the deck bushing 124.

[0048] The retention system 200 further includes one or more actuators 204 to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. The one or more actuators 204 are coupled to the mast weldment 112 at a first end 206 of the one or more actuators 204. The one or more actuators 204 are coupled to the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 at a second end 208 of the one or more actuators 204. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3C, the one or more actuators 204 include a single actuator 204 coupled to the mast weldment 112. The one or more actuators 204 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single actuator 204”. The single actuator 204 is a hydraulic actuator.

[0049] The one or more retention arm assemblies 202 and the one or more actuators 204 are coupled to a portion of the mast weldment 112 that is proximal to the operator cabin 108 (see FIG. 1) of the drilling machine 100. In other words, the single retention arm assembly 202 and the single actuator 204 are disposed at a cab side of the drilling machine 100. Each of the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 and the one or more actuators 204 are disposed outside the mast weldment 112. Based on an actuation of the actuator 204, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 move along a horizontal plane X1 to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. The term “horizontal plane X1” refers to a plane defined by an X-axis and a Y-axis. Specifically, the one or more actuators 204 are movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In order to engage the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 with the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 204 are moved to the extended position from the retracted position that causes the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 to move from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position P2. Further, to disengage the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 from the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 204 are moved to the retracted position from the extended position that causes the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 to move from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position P1.

[0050] The one or more retention arm assemblies 202 include a coupling member 210 that couples the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 with the mast weldment 112 and the one or more actuators 204. Further, the coupling member 210 includes a single-piece design herein. The coupling member 210 includes a first coupling portion 212 and a second coupling portion 214. The first coupling portion 212 and the second coupling portion 214 are disposed at an angle relative to each other. In some examples, each of the first coupling portion 212 and the second coupling portion 214 may be fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112 via welding, brazing, soldering, and the like. In other examples, each of the first coupling portion 212 and the second coupling portion 214 may be removably coupled to the mast weldment 112 via one more fastening means. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3C, the retention system 200 includes a bracket 216. The bracket 216 is removably coupled with the coupling member 210. In some examples, the bracket 216 may be fixedly coupled with the coupling member 210. Further, the bracket 216 is fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112. In some examples, the bracket 216 may be fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112 via welding, brazing, soldering, and the like. In other examples, the bracket 216 may be removably coupled to the mast weldment 112 for example via one or more fastening means. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to a technique of coupling the retention arm assembly 202 to the mast weldment 112.

[0051] Further, each of the first coupling portion 212 and the second coupling portion 214 together define a pivot point 242 at an intersection of the first coupling portion 212 and the second coupling portion 214. The bracket 216 is coupled with the coupling member 210 at the pivot point 242. The retention arm assembly 202 pivots about the pivot point 242 to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2.

[0052] The one or more retention arm assemblies 202 also include an engaging portion 220 integral with the coupling member 210. When the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 220 is engaged with the deck bushing 124. A shape of the engaging portion 220 corresponds to a shape of the outer surface 131 of the deck bushing 124. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3C, the engaging portion 220 includes a body 222. The body 222 has a C-shaped profile. The body 222 is substantially cup-shaped herein. Alternatively, the body 222 may have any other shape that may allow retention of the deck bushing 124. For example, the body 222 may have a U-shape, an arcuate shape, and so on. Further, the body 222 defines a slot 240.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3C, when the one or more retention arm assemblies 202 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 220 is engaged with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124 or the bottom surface 132 of the deck bushing 124. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3C, the engaging portion 220 of the retention arm assembly 202 is in engagement with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124. Moreover, due to the C-shaped profile of the engaging portion 220, the engaging portion 220 may also contact the outer surface 131 of the deck bushing 124. Thus, when the actuator 204 is in the extended position and the retention arm assembly 202 is in the engaged position P2, the slot 240 receives a portion of the deck bushing 124 therein to engage the retention arm assembly 202 with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124 to retain the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 (see FIG. 2A) from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100.

[0054] Further, when the retention arm assembly 202 is to be disengaged from the deck bushing 124, the actuator 204 is retracted thereby causing a movement of the retention arm assembly 202 from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position P1.

[0055] In one exemplary application, the pipe positioner system 250 engages with the drill string 118. Further, when the work tool 120 (see FIG. 2A) is to be inspected and / or replaced, the drill string 118, along with the deck bushing 124, is raised to a desired height. Specifically, the drill string 118 is raised to the desired height such that the work tool 120 is raised above the mast base plate 125 to enable a bit basket 142 of the drilling machine 100 to slide below the work tool 120 in case of inspection and / or replacement of the work tool 120. In some examples, the bit basket 142 may be a hydraulically operated bit basket. It should be noted that, in such cases the deck bushing 124 rides on the work tool 120 and is in alignment with the retention arm assembly 202 for engagement. When the drill string 118 is being raised, the actuator 204 is moved to the extended position that causes the retention arm assembly 202 to move to the engaged position P2 from the stowed position P1. Based on the movement of the retention arm assembly 202, the engaging portion 220 is engaged with the deck bushing 124. The drill string 118 is moved downwards so that the work tool 120 engages with the bit basket 142. At this time, the retention arm assembly 202 is still engaged with the deck bushing 124 to retain the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. Subsequently, in case the HOBO device 140 breaks a joint between the work tool 120 and the lower sub adaptor 122, the work tool 120 will be retained in the bit basket 142 and will be replaced with a new work tool.

[0056] Even after the joint between the work tool 120 and the lower sub adaptor 122 is broken, the retention arm assembly 202 remains engaged till the work tool 120 is removed and replaced with the new work tool. After the work tool 120 replacement on the drill string 118, the drill string 118 is raised up till the deck bushing 124 rides on the work tool 120 once again. Then the retention arm assembly 202 is moved to the stowed position P1 from the engaged position P2, which causes the retention arm assembly 202 to disengage from the deck bushing 124. Further, it should be noted that, after the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120, the deck bushing 124 is reseated on the mast base plate 125 of the drilling machine 100. Furthermore, the drill string 118 is also lowered to a Ready-To-Drill state or a Ready-To-Tram state.

[0057] Referring now to FIGS. 4A to 4C, schematic perspective views of a retention system 400 for the drilling machine 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention system 400 is substantially similar to the retention system 200 of FIGS. 3A to 3C, with common components being referred to by the same numerals.

[0058] The retention system 400 includes one or more retention arm assemblies 402 and one or more actuators 404 to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 include a single retention arm assembly 402 and the one or more actuators 404 include a single actuator 404. The actuator 404 is a hydraulic actuator. The one or more retention arm assemblies 402 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single retention arm assembly 402”. Further, the one or more actuators 404 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single actuator 404”. The retention arm assembly 402 is illustrated in the stowed position P1 in FIG. 4A. The retention arm assembly 402 is illustrated in the engaged position P2 in FIGS. 4B and 4C.

[0059] The one or more retention arm assemblies 402 and the one or more actuators 404 are coupled to a portion of the mast weldment 112 that is distal to the operator cabin 108 (shown in FIG. 1) of the drilling machine 100. In other words, the single retention arm assembly 402 and the single actuator 404 are disposed at a non-cab side of the drilling machine 100. Each of the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 and the one or more actuators 404 are disposed outside the mast weldment 112. The one or more actuators 404 are coupled to the mast weldment 112 at a first end 406 that is distal from the operator cabin 108. The one or more actuators 404 are coupled to the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 at a second end 408 of the one or more actuators 204. The one or more actuators 404 are movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In order to engage the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 with the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 404 are moved to the extended position from the retracted position that causes the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 to move from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position P2. Further, to disengage the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 from the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 404 are moved to the retracted position from the extended position that causes the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 to move from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position P1.

[0060] The one or more retention arm assemblies 402 include a coupling member 410 that couples the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 with the mast weldment 112 and the one or more actuators 404. The one or more retention arm assemblies 402 also include an engaging portion 420 integral with the coupling member 410. When the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 420 is engaged with the deck bushing 124. The engaging portion 420 has a C-shape herein. Alternatively, the engaging portion 420 may have a U-shape or an arcuate shape. The engaging portion 420 defines a slot 440.

[0061] Based on an actuation of the actuator 404, the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 move along the horizontal plane X1 to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. Specifically, to engage the retention arm assembly 402 with the deck bushing 124, the retention arm assembly 402 moves along the horizontal plane X1 from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position P2. Further, to disengage the retention arm assembly 402 from the deck bushing 124, the retention arm assembly 402 moves along the horizontal plane X1 from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position P1.

[0062] Further, when the one or more retention arm assemblies 402 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 420 is engaged with the bottom surface 132 of the deck bushing 124. Thus, when the actuator 404 is in the extended position and the retention arm assembly 402 is in the engaged position P2, the slot 440 defined by the engaging portion 420 receives a portion of the lower sub adaptor 122 therein to engage the retention arm assembly 402 with the bottom surface 132 of the deck bushing 124 thereby retaining the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 (see FIG. 2A) from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. Alternatively, the engaging portion 420 may engage with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, schematic perspective views of a retention system 500 for the drilling machine 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention system 500 is substantially similar to the retention system 200 of FIGS. 3A to 3C, with common components being referred to by the same numerals.

[0064] The retention system 500 includes one or more retention arm assemblies 502, 503 and one or more actuators 504, 505 to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 502, 503 between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 5B, the one or more retention arm assemblies 502, 503 include a first retention arm assembly 502 and a second retention arm assembly 503. Further, the one or more actuators 504, 505 include a first actuator 504 coupled with the first retention arm assembly 502 and a second actuator 505 coupled with the second retention arm assembly 503. The retention arm assembly 502 is hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “first retention arm assembly 502”. The retention arm assembly 503 is hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “second retention arm assembly 503”. The actuator 504 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “first actuator 504”. The actuator 505 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “second actuator 505”. Each of the actuators 504, 505 is a hydraulic actuator.

[0065] The first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are illustrated in the engaged position P2 in FIG. 5A. Further, the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are illustrated in the stowed position P1 in FIG. 5B.

[0066] The first retention arm assembly 502, the second retention arm assembly 503, the first actuator 504, and the second actuator 505 are disposed within the mast weldment 112. The first retention arm assembly 502 and the first actuator 504 are disposed proximal to the operator cabin 108 (shown in FIG. 1) of the drilling machine 100 and the second retention arm assembly 503 and the second actuator 505 are disposed distal to the operator cabin 108. In other words, the first retention arm assembly 502 and the first actuator 504 are disposed at the cab side of the drilling machine 100 and the second retention arm assembly 503 and the second actuator 505 are disposed at the non-cab side of the drilling machine 100.

[0067] Each of the first actuator 504 and the second actuator 505 is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. When each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 is in the stowed position P1, each of the first actuator 504 and the second actuator 505 is in the extended position, thereby disengaging the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 with the deck bushing 124. Further, when each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 is in the engaged position P2, the first actuator 504 and the second actuator 505 are in the retracted position, thereby engaging the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 with the deck bushing 124.

[0068] The first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are identical in design. Each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 includes a coupling member 510 that couples the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 with the mast weldment 112. Specifically, the coupling member 510 of the first retention arm assembly 502 couples the first retention arm assembly 502 with the portion of the mast weldment 112 that is proximal to the operator cabin 108. Further, the coupling member 510 of the second retention arm assembly 503 couples the second retention arm assembly 503 with the portion of the mast weldment 112 that is distal from the operator cabin 108.

[0069] Each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 also include an engaging portion 520 integral with the coupling member 510. When the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 520 of each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 is engaged with the deck bushing 124. The engaging portion 520 has an arcuate shape. Alternatively, the engaging portion 520 may have a U-shape or a C-shape. The engaging portion 520 defines a slot 540.

[0070] Based on an actuation of the first actuator 504 and the second actuator 505, the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 rotate angularly to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. Specifically, to engage the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 with the deck bushing 124, the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are rotated angularly from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position P2. Further, to disengage the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 from the deck bushing 124, the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are rotated angularly from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position P1.

[0071] Further, when the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 520 of each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 is engaged with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124. Thus, when the first actuator 504 and the second actuator 505 are in the retracted position and the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 are in the engaged position P2, the slot 540 defined by the engaging portion 520 of each of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 receives a portion of the deck bushing 124 therein to engage the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124. Alternatively, the engaging portion 520 may engage with the bottom surface 132 of the deck bushing 124.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, schematic perspective views of a retention system 600 for the drilling machine 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention system 600 is substantially similar to the retention system 500 of FIGS. 5A and 5B, with common components being referred to by the same numerals. However, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 include a single retention arm assembly 602 (instead of the first retention arm assembly 502 and the second retention arm assembly 503 as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B) and the one or more actuators 604 include a single actuator 604 (instead of the first actuator 504 and the second actuator 505 as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B). The one or more retention arm assemblies 602 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single retention arm assembly 602”. Further, the one or more actuators 604 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single actuator 604”. The actuator 604 is a hydraulic actuator.

[0073] The single retention arm assembly 602 is illustrated in the engaged position P2 in FIG. 6A. Further, the single retention arm assembly 602 is illustrated in the stowed position P1 in FIG. 6B.

[0074] The one or more retention arm assemblies 602 and the one or more actuators 604 are disposed within the mast weldment 112. The one or more retention arm assemblies 602 and the one or more actuators 604 are disposed proximal to the operator cabin 108 (shown in FIG. 1) of the drilling machine 100 or distal to the operator cabin 108. In other words, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 and the one or more actuators 604 may be disposed at the cab side of the drilling machine 100 or the non-cab side of the drilling machine 100. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 and the one or more actuators 604 are illustrated proximal to the operator cabin 108. Alternatively, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 and the one or more actuators 604 may be disposed distal from the operator cabin 108.

[0075] Based on an actuation of the actuator 604, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 rotate angularly to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position P2. Specifically, to engage the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 with the deck bushing 124, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 are rotated angularly from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position P2. Further, to disengage the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 from the deck bushing 124, the one or more retention arm assemblies 602 are rotated angularly from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position P1.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 7A, a schematic perspective view of a retention system 700 for the drilling machine 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention system 700 may be substantially similar to the retention system 200 of FIGS. 3A to 3C, with common components being referred to by the same numerals.

[0077] The retention system 700 includes one or more retention arm assemblies 702 and one or more actuators 704 to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7A, the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 include a single retention arm assembly 702 and the one or more actuators 704 include a single actuator 704. The one or more retention arm assemblies 702 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single retention arm assembly 702”. Further, the one or more actuators 704 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single actuator 704”. The actuator 704 is a hydraulic actuator. Further, the retention arm assembly 702 is illustrated in the stowed position P1 in FIG. 7A.

[0078] The one or more retention arm assemblies 702 and the one or more actuators 704 are coupled to a portion of the mast weldment 112 that is proximal to the operator cabin 108 (see FIG. 1) of the drilling machine 100. In other words, the single retention arm assembly 702 and the single actuator 704 are disposed at the cab side of the drilling machine 100. Alternatively, the single retention arm assembly 702 and the single actuator 704 may be disposed at the non-cab side of the drilling machine 100. Each of the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 and the single actuator 704 is disposed outside the mast weldment 112. The one or more actuators 704 are coupled to the frame 102 at a first end 706 that is proximal to the operator cabin 108. The one or more actuators 704 are coupled to the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 at a second end 708 of the one or more actuators 704. The one or more actuators 704 are movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In order to engage the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 with the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 704 are moved to the extended position from the retracted position that cause the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 to move from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position. Further, to disengage the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 from the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 704 are moved to the retracted position from the extended position that cause the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 to move from the engaged position to the stowed position P1.

[0079] The one or more retention arm assemblies 702 include a coupling member 710 that couples the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 with the mast weldment 112 and the one or more actuators 704. The one or more retention arm assemblies 702 also include an engaging portion 712 integral with the coupling member 710. The engaging portion 712 includes a body 722. The body 722 has an arcuate shape herein. Alternatively, the body 722 may have any other shape, such as, a C-shape or a U-shape, that may allow retention of the deck bushing 124. When the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 are in the engaged position, the engaging portion 712 is engaged with the deck bushing 124. In an example, when the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 are in the engaged position, the engaging portion 712 engages with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124.

[0080] The retention system 700 includes a bracket 716. The bracket 716 couples the retention arm assembly 702 with the mast weldment 112. Further, the retention arm assembly 702 is rotatable relative to the bracket 716. Further, the bracket 716 is fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112. In some examples, the bracket 716 may be fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112 via welding, brazing, soldering, and the like. Alternatively, the bracket 716 may be removably coupled to the mast weldment 112 via one or more fastening elements. The bracket 716 is removably coupled with the coupling member 710. In some examples, the bracket 716 may be fixedly coupled with the coupling member 710. Further, the coupling member 710 defines a pivot point 723. The bracket 716 is coupled with the coupling member 710 at the pivot point 723. The retention arm assembly 702 pivots about the pivot point 723 to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to a technique of coupling the retention arm assembly 702 to the mast weldment 112.

[0081] Based on an actuation of the actuator 704, the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 rotate angularly to move between the stowed position P1 and the engaged position. Specifically, in order to engage the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 with the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 704 are moved to the extended position from the retracted position that cause the movement of the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position.

[0082] Further, when the retention arm assembly 702 is in the engaged position, the engaging portion 712 is engaged with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124. Thus, when the actuator 704 is in the extended position, the body 722 of the engaging portion 712 of the retention arm assembly 702 receives a portion of the deck bushing 124 therein to engage the retention arm assembly 702 with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124 to retain the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 (see FIG. 2A) from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100.

[0083] The retention arm assemblies 702 remain engaged till the inspection of the work tool 120 is completed, or the work tool 120 is removed and replaced with the new work tool. After completion of the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120, the drill string 118 is raised up till the deck bushing 124 rides on the work tool 120 once again. Further, to disengage the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 from the deck bushing 124, the one or more actuators 704 are moved to the retracted position from the extended position that cause the movement of the one or more retention arm assemblies 702 from the engaged position to the stowed position P1.

[0084] Referring now to FIG. 7B, a schematic perspective view of a retention system 750 for the drilling machine 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention system 750 may be substantially similar to the retention system 200 of FIGS. 3A to 3C, with common components being referred to by the same numerals.

[0085] The retention system 750 includes one or more retention arm assemblies 752 and one or more actuators 754, 755 to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 between the stowed position (not shown) and the engaged position P2. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 include a single retention arm assembly 752. The one or more retention arm assemblies 752 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single retention arm assembly 752”. Further, the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 are illustrated in the engaged position P2 in FIG. 7B. The one or more actuators 754, 755 include a pair of actuators 754, 755 (instead of a single actuator 204 as shown in FIG. 3A). The pair of actuators 754, 755 include a first actuator 754 and a second actuator 755. Each of the actuators 754, 755 is a hydraulic actuator. Each of the first and second actuators 754, 755 is movable between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0086] The one or more retention arm assemblies 752 and the one or more actuators 754, 755 are coupled to a portion of the mast weldment 112 that is proximal to the operator cabin 108 of the drilling machine 100. In other words, the single retention arm assembly 752 and the one or more actuators 754, 755 are disposed at the cab side of the drilling machine 100. Alternatively, the single retention arm assembly 752 and the one or more actuators 754, 755 may be disposed at the non-cab side of the drilling machine 100. Each of the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 and the pair of actuators 754, 755 are disposed outside the mast weldment 112.

[0087] The one or more retention arm assemblies 752 include a coupling member 760 that couples the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 with the mast weldment 112 and the one or more actuators 754, 755. The coupling member 760 includes a first coupling portion 762 and a second coupling portion 764. The first coupling portion 762 and the second coupling portion 764 are disposed at an angle relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, the retention system 200 includes a bracket 766. The bracket 766 couples the retention arm assembly 752 with the mast weldment 112. Further, the retention arm assembly 752 is rotatable relative to the bracket 766. Further, the bracket 766 is fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112. In some examples, the bracket 766 may be fixedly coupled to the mast weldment 112 via welding, brazing, soldering, and the like. In other examples, the bracket 766 may be removably coupled to the mast weldment 112 for example via one or more fastening means. The bracket 766 is removably coupled with the coupling member 760. Specifically, the bracket 766 is removably coupled with the first coupling portion 762 of the coupling member 760. In some examples, the bracket 766 may be fixedly coupled with the coupling member 760. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to a technique of coupling the retention arm assembly 752 to the mast weldment 112.

[0088] Further, the bracket 766 is coupled with the coupling member 760 at a pivot point 772. The retention arm assembly 752 pivots about the pivot point 772, relative to the bracket 766, to move between the stowed position and the engaged position P2.

[0089] The one or more retention arm assemblies 752 also include an engaging portion 770 integral with the coupling member 760. When the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 770 is engaged with the deck bushing 124. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, the engaging portion 770 includes a body 771. The body 771 has an arcuate profile. The body 771 is substantially cup-shaped herein. Alternatively, the body 771 may have any other shape, such as a U-shape or a C-shape, that may allow retention of the deck bushing 124.

[0090] Based on an actuation of the actuator 754, 755, the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 rotate angularly to move between the stowed position and the engaged position P2. Specifically, in order to engage the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 with the deck bushing 124, the first actuator 754 and the second actuator 755 move to the extended position at the same time to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 from the stowed position to the engaged position P2. Further, when the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 are in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 770 engages with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124. Thus, when each of the actuator 754, 755 is in the extended position and the retention arm assembly 752 is in the engaged position P2, the engaging portion 770 receives a portion of the deck bushing 124 therein to engage the retention arm assembly 752 with the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124 to retain the deck bushing 124 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. Alternatively, the engaging portion 770 may engage with the bottom surface 132 of the deck bushing 124.

[0091] Further, to disengage the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 from the deck bushing 124, each of the first actuator 754 and the second actuator 755 is moved to the retracted position from the extended position that causes the one or more retention arm assemblies 752 to move from the engaged position P2 to the stowed position.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 8, a schematic view of a retention system 800 for the drilling machine 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention system 800 may be substantially similar to the retention system 200 of FIGS. 3A to 3C, with common components being referred to by the same numerals.

[0093] The retention system 800 includes one or more retention arm assemblies 802 and one or more actuators 804 to move the one or more retention arm assemblies 802 between the stowed position (not shown) and the engaged position P2. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8, the one or more retention arm assemblies 802 include a single retention arm assembly 802 and the one or more actuators 804 include a single actuator 804. However, the actuator 804 may be embodied as a motor. The motor may be a hydraulic motor or an electric motor. Alternatively, the actuator 804 may include any other actuating means that assists in rotation of the retention arm assembly from the stowed position to the engaged position P2 and vice-versa. The one or more retention arm assemblies 802 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single retention arm assembly 802”. Further, the one or more actuators 804 are hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the “single actuator 804”. Further, the retention arm assembly 802 is illustrated in the engaged position P2 in FIG. 8.

[0094] The retention system 800 also includes an actuation mechanism 850 coupled to the one or more retention arm assemblies 802 and the one or more actuators 804. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8, the actuation mechanism 850 is embodied as a rack and pinion mechanism. Alternatively, the actuation mechanism 850 may include a linear actuator, a hydraulic cylinder and a linkage assembly, a worm and a worm wheel arrangement, or another combination of components that causes a movement of the retention arm assembly 802.

[0095] The one or more retention arm assemblies 802 and the one or more actuators 804 are coupled to a portion of the mast weldment 112 that is proximal to the operator cabin 108 of the drilling machine 100. Specifically, each of the one or more retention arm assemblies 802, the one or more actuators 804, and the actuation mechanism 850 are disposed at the cab side of the drilling machine 100 and are disposed outside of the mast weldment 112.

[0096] Based on an actuation of the one or more actuators 804 and the actuation mechanism 850, the one or more retention arm assemblies 802 move along a linear path L1 between the stowed position and the engaged position P2. Specifically, to engage the retention arm assembly 802 with the deck bushing 124, the retention arm assembly 802 is moved along the linear path L1 between the stowed position and the engaged position P2. Further, the retention arm assembly 802 includes an engaging portion 820. The engaging portion 820 has a linear profile herein. Further, the engaging portion 820 contacts the bottom surface 132 of the deck bushing 124. Alternatively, the engaging portion 820 may contact the flange 130 of the deck bushing 124.

[0097] It is to be understood that individual features shown or described for one embodiment may be combined with individual features shown or described for another embodiment. The above-described implementation does not in any way limit the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood although some features are shown or described to illustrate the use of the present disclosure in the context of functional segments, such features may be omitted from the scope of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0098] The present disclosure relates to the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 for the drilling machine 100. The present disclosure relates to automatic retention of the deck bushing 124 using the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 for enabling removal / replacement of the work tool 120 and / or the hammer. The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 may be used with both manual and autonomous drilling machines. The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 may be used during above-the-deck removal / breaking of work tools 120 or hammers.

[0099] The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 includes the retention arm assembly 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802. The retention arm assembly 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 automatically holds and secures the deck bushing 124 on the drill string 118, thereby preventing the deck bushing from slipping during the removal / replacement of worn-out work tools or hammers.

[0100] The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 has a simple design and is therefore cost-effective to manufacture and implement. Further, the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 is simple to operate and requires minimal operator involvement for holding the deck bushing 124, which may reduce operator fatigue, eliminates live work, and may improve a productivity of the operator. The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 may allow easy handling during removal / replacement of heavy work tools or hammers. In some examples, the drilling machine 100 may include a programming software to control a sequence of all the operations involved and all other integrating systems associated with the drilling machine 100.

[0101] The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 along with the bit basket 142, the pipe positioner system 250, a lifting bail of the drilling machine 100, and a mast winch system of the drilling machine 100 may improve a level of safety as well as completely eliminate live work for operators. The pipe positioner system 250 guides and centers the movement of the drill string 118 along the vertical axis Al when the retention arm assembly 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 engages with the deck bushing 124. The pipe positioner system 250 may prevent any undesired movement or shaking of the drill string 118, thereby improving retention performance of the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 to retain the deck bushing 124. In an example, the pipe positioner system 250 may support the drill string 118 even when the drill pipe is worn resulting in proper retention of the deck bushing 124. Further, the pipe positioner system 250 may prevent interference of the retention arm assembly 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 with one or more components of the drilling machine 100 that may result in effective retention of the deck bushing 124. In other words, the engagement of the pipe positioner system 250 with the drill string 118 may minimize the interference of the retention arm assembly 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 with the drill string 118 and may prevent damage to the retention arm assembly 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802.

[0102] The retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 reduces operator efforts that may be otherwise spent on manually coupling and removing conventional horseshoe tools with the deck bushing 124. Moreover, the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 described herein may also reduce time required for removal / replacement of work tools or hammers. Further, the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 may improve an operating time and an efficiency of the drilling machine 100 by reducing time required for removal / replacement of work tools and hammers. Furthermore, the retention system 200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 750, 800 may be implemented on existing drilling machines.

[0103] In some examples, the retention system 500 includes the first and second retention arm assemblies 502, 503 that may provide enhanced stability and support, thereby ensuring that the deck bushing 124 remains in place during the replacement of the work tool 120 or the hammer.

[0104] In some examples, the retention system 500, 750 includes the two actuators 504, 505, 754, 755. The two actuators 504, 505, 754, 755 may be used to provide balanced and synchronized force to the retention arm assembly 502, 503, 752. Further, the two actuators 504, 505, 754, 755 work together to extend or retract, ensuring that the retention arm assembly 502, 503, 752 moves smoothly and evenly. The two actuators 504, 505, 754, 755 may provide additional stability and control during the replacement of the work tool 120 or the hammer.

[0105] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method 900 for retaining the deck bushing 124 of the drilling machine 100. The deck bushing 124 is movable relative to the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, at step 902, the pipe positioner system 250 of the drilling machine 100 is engaged with the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100 to guide and center the movement of the drill string 118 along the vertical axis A1.

[0106] At step 904, the drill string 118 is raised such that the work tool 120 of the drilling machine 100 is raised above the mast base plate 125 of the drilling machine 100.

[0107] At step 906, the one or more actuators 204, 404, 504, 505, 604, 704, 754, 755, 804 of the drilling machine 100 that is coupled to the mast weldment 112 of the drilling machine 100 at the first end 206, 406, 706 of the one or more actuators 204, 404, 504, 505, 604, 704, 754, 755, 804 are actuated.

[0108] At step 908, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 of the drilling machine 100 are moved from the stowed position P1 to the engaged position P2, based on the actuation of the one or more actuators 204, 404, 504, 505, 604, 704, 754, 755, 804. The one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 are coupled to the mast weldment 112. The one or more actuators 204, 404, 504, 505, 604, 704, 754, 755, 804 are coupled to the one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 at the second end 208, 408, 708 of the one or more actuators 204, 404, 504, 505, 604, 704, 754, 755, 804.

[0109] At step 9108, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 are engaged with the deck bushing 124, based on the movement of the one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 to the engaged position P2.

[0110] At step 912, the deck bushing 124 is retained by the one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118.

[0111] At step 914, the one or more retention arm assemblies 202, 402, 502, 503, 602, 702, 752, 802 are disengaged from the deck bushing 124 after the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool 120 from the drill string 118.

[0112] At step 916, the deck bushing 124 is reseated on the mast base plate 125. At step 918, the drill string 118 of the drilling machine 100 is lowered to the Ready-To-Drill state or the Ready-To-Tram state.

[0113] It should be noted that the steps 902, 904, 906, 908, 910, 912, 914, 916, 918 of the method 900 may be performed in a sequence that is different from that explained in relation to FIG. 9. Further, various steps 902, 904, 906, 908, 910, 912, 914, 916, 918 can be performed together.

[0114] While aspects of the present disclosure have been particularly shown and described with reference to the embodiments above, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by the modification of the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of the present disclosure as determined based upon the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A retention system for retaining a deck bushing of a drilling machine, the deck bushing is movable relative to a drill string of the drilling machine, the retention system comprising:at least one retention arm assembly coupled to a mast weldment of the drilling machine, the mast weldment having a vertical axis, the at least one retention arm assembly including an arcuate engaging portion configured to extend horizontally about the deck bushing, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly is movable relative to the mast weldment between a stowed position and an engaged position, wherein, when the at least one retention arm assembly is in the stowed position, the at least one retention arm assembly is disengaged from the deck bushing, and wherein, when the at least one retention arm assembly is in the engaged position, the arcuate engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly is engaged with the deck bushing and extends horizontally about the deck bushing to retain the deck bushing in a raised state to facilitate an inspection and / or a replacement of a work tool from the drill string of the drilling machine; andat least one actuator adapted to move the at least one retention arm assembly between the stowed position and the engaged position, wherein the at least one actuator is coupled to the mast weldment at a first end of the at least one actuator, and wherein the at least one actuator is coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator.

2. The retention system of claim 1, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly includes:a coupling member that couples the at least one retention arm assembly with the mast weldment and the at least one actuator; andwherein the arcuate engaging portion is integral with the coupling member.

3. The retention system of claim 2, wherein a shape of the arcuate engaging portion corresponds to a shape of an outer surface of the deck bushing.

4. The retention system of claim 2, wherein the deck bushing defines an upper end and a lower end opposite the upper end, wherein the deck bushing includes a flange defined at the upper end and a bottom surface defined at the lower end, and wherein, when the at least one retention arm assembly is in the engaged position, the arcuate engaging portion is engaged with the flange of the deck bushing or a bottom surface of the deck bushing.

5. The retention system of claim 1, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment such that the arcuate engaging portion is positioned at a first distance from an operator cabin of the drilling machine in the stowed position and a second distance from the operator cabin in the engaged position that is greater than the first distance, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to move along a horizontal plane to move between the stowed position and the engaged position.

6. (canceled)7. The retention system of claim 1, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator are disposed within the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to rotate angularly to move between the stowed position and the engaged position.

8. The retention system of claim 1, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly includes a first retention arm assembly and a second retention arm assembly, wherein the at least one actuator includes a first actuator coupled with the first retention arm assembly and a second actuator coupled with the second retention arm assembly, wherein the first retention arm assembly, the second retention arm assembly, the first actuator, and the second actuator are disposed within the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the first actuator and the second actuator, the first retention arm assembly and the second retention arm assembly are adapted to rotate angularly to move between the stowed position and the engaged position.

9. The retention system of claim 1, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein the at least one actuator includes a single actuator, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly and the single actuator is disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to rotate angularly to move between the stowed position and the engaged position.

10. The retention system of claim 1, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein the at least one actuator includes a pair of actuators, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly and the pair of actuators are disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to rotate angularly to move between the stowed position and the engaged position.

11. The retention system of claim 1 further comprising an actuation mechanism coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly, the at least one actuator, and the actuation mechanism are disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the at least one actuator and the actuation mechanism, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to move along a linear path between the stowed position and the engaged position.

12. A drilling machine comprising:a frame;a mast system supported by the frame, the mast system including a mast weldment and a mast base plate;a drill string;a work tool coupled to the drill string;a deck bushing movable relative to the drill string; anda retention system for retaining the deck bushing in a raised state to facilitate an inspection and / or a replacement of the work tool from the drill string of the drilling machine, the retention system including:at least one retention arm assembly coupled to the mast weldment, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly has an engaging portion movable relative to the mast weldment between a lowered stowed position and a raised engaged position, wherein, when the engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly is in the lowered stowed position, the engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly is disengaged from the deck bushing and is a first distance from the mast base plate, and wherein, when the at least one retention arm assembly is in the raised engaged position, the engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly is a second distance from the mast base plate greater than the first distance and is engaged with the deck bushing to retain the deck bushing in the raised state to facilitate the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool from the drill string of the drilling machine; andat least one actuator adapted to move the engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position, wherein the at least one actuator is coupled to the mast weldment at a first end of the at least one actuator, and wherein the at least one actuator is coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator.

13. The drilling machine of claim 12, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to move along a horizontal plane to move between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position.

14. (canceled)15. The drilling machine of claim 12, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator are disposed within the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to rotate angularly to move between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position.

16. The drilling machine of claim 12, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly includes a first retention arm assembly and a second retention arm assembly, wherein the at least one actuator includes a first actuator coupled with the first retention arm assembly and a second actuator coupled with the second retention arm assembly, wherein the first retention arm assembly, the second retention arm assembly, the first actuator, and the second actuator are disposed within the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the first actuator and the second actuator, the first retention arm assembly and the second retention arm assembly are adapted to rotate angularly to move between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position.

17. The drilling machine of claim 12, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein the at least one actuator includes a single actuator, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly and the single actuator is disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to rotate angularly to move between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position.

18. The drilling machine of claim 12, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein the at least one actuator includes a pair of actuators, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly and the pair of actuators are disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the actuator, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to rotate angularly to move between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position.

19. The drilling machine of claim 12, wherein the retention system further includes an actuation mechanism coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly and the at least one actuator is coupled to a portion of the mast weldment, wherein each of the at least one retention arm assembly, the at least one actuator, and the actuation mechanism are disposed outside the mast weldment, and wherein, based on an actuation of the at least one actuator and the actuation mechanism, the at least one retention arm assembly is adapted to move along a linear path between the lowered stowed position and the raised engaged position.

20. A method for retaining a deck bushing of a drilling machine, the deck bushing is movable relative to a drill string of the drilling machine, the method comprising:engaging a pipe positioner system of the drilling machine with the drill string of the drilling machine to guide and center a movement of the drill string along a vertical axis;raising the drill string such that a work tool of the drilling machine is raised above a mast base plate of the drilling machine;actuating at least one actuator of the drilling machine that is coupled to a mast weldment of the drilling machine at a first end of the at least one actuator;moving an engaging portion of at least one retention arm assembly of the drilling machine upward from a lower, stowed position wherein the engaging portion is positioned at a first distance from the mast base plate of the drilling machine to a raised engaged position wherein the engaging portion is positioned at a second distance from the mast base plate that is greater than the first distance, based on an actuation of the at least one actuator, wherein the at least one retention arm assembly is coupled to the mast weldment, and wherein the at least one actuator is coupled to the at least one retention arm assembly at a second end of the at least one actuator;engaging the engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly with the deck bushing, based on a movement of the at least one retention arm assembly to the raised engaged position;retaining, by the at least one retention arm assembly, the deck bushing in a raised state based on an engagement of the engaging portion of the retention arm assembly with the deck bushing to facilitate an inspection and / or a replacement of the work tool from the drill string;disengaging the engaging portion of the at least one retention arm assembly from the deck bushing after the inspection and / or the replacement of the work tool from the drill string;reseating the deck bushing on the mast base plate; andlowering the drill string of the drilling machine to a Ready-To-Drill state or a Ready-To-Tram state.

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