Adjustable Coupler for Drilling String Power Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing couplers for drilling operations are cumbersome and require multiple operators to connect a power source to a drilling string, necessitating movement and incremental rotation of the power source to index properly.
Innovation Solution
A coupler with an elongate assembly that moves between retracted and extended positions to transfer compressive or tensile forces and torque, allowing independent rotation of its portions for easy connection and adjustment, enabling a single operator to connect the power source without moving the power source forward or rotating it incrementally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional coupler is used to connect the power source to the drilling string, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the connection process is tedious and time-consuming, requiring multiple operators and incremental rotation of the power source
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler incorporates an adjustable-length assembly with movable segments that can be dynamically reconfigured during connection. The first and second segments can move relative to each other along the coupler axis, allowing the operator to adjust the coupler length to match the distance between the power source and drilling string, eliminating the need for incremental power source rotation and reducing connection time to under 30 seconds.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler is divided into multiple segments (first segment, second segment, and adjustable-length assembly with movable segments) that can independently move and reconfigure. This segmentation allows the coupler to adapt its length and configuration during the connection process, enabling a single operator to connect the power source to the drilling string without requiring the power source to be moved forward or rotated incrementally.
2Ease of operation
If the power source is moved forward and rotated incrementally to index properly with the drilling string, then proper alignment is achieved, but the process requires multiple operators and is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler's adjustable-length assembly with movable segments provides dynamic adjustment capability that eliminates the need for incremental rotation of the power source. The movable segments can be reconfigured to achieve proper indexing between the power source and drilling string, reducing the connection process to a single operator task and eliminating the complexity of coordinated movement and rotation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length coupler is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate variations in distance between the power source and drilling string during drilling operations
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler incorporates an adjustable-length assembly with movable segments that can dynamically adjust the coupler length to accommodate variations in distance between the power source and drilling string. The first and second segments can move relative to each other along the coupler axis, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that builds upon the traditional coupler design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler is segmented into fixed and movable portions, allowing the movable segments to adjust the overall length while the fixed portions maintain structural integrity. This segmentation enables adaptability to distance variations without requiring complete redesign of the coupler structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and single-operator connection of the power source to the drilling string, reducing operational time and complexity, especially when adding or removing drill string members, by allowing adjustable length and independent rotation for proper indexing.
Implementation Method 1
the coupler is able to transfer a compressive force and transmit torque from the first portion to the second portion
Implementation Method 2
the coupler is able to transfer a tensile force and transmit torque from the first portion to the second portion
Implementation Method 3
The first portion and the second portion are able to rotate independently relative to each other about the coupler axis in the one or more intermediate positions
Data Source
AI summary
Couplers for connecting a power source to a drilling string are disclosed. The coupler may include an elongate assembly including a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion are configured to move relative to each other such that the coupler may be arranged in a retracted position, an extended position, and one or more intermediate positions. In the retracted position, the coupler may transmit a compressive force and/or a torque to the drilling string. In the extended position, the coupler may transmit a tensile force and/or a torque to the drilling string. In the intermediate positions, the first portion and the second portion are able to translate and rotate independently relative to each other.