Arcuate Load Transfer Bushing for Tubular Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load transfer sleeve systems require external power sources and control components, making them impractical for remote operation, especially when handling long tubular stands in vertical orientations, which slows down the tubular running process.
Innovation Solution
A bushing-style load transfer system that can be remotely actuated to engage and disengage around the upper end of a tubular stand without the need for hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical hoses/umbilicals, utilizing a locking mechanism with arcuate segments and a spear contact surface for secure attachment and weight transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote actuation of load transfer sleeve is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical actuation systems with a purely mechanical actuation mechanism. The mechanical actuator uses a simple crank-and-rod mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion to open and close the load transfer sleeve, eliminating the need for external power sources and control systems while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The load transfer sleeve system is designed to be self-actuating through mechanical means. The operator can directly manipulate the mechanical actuator from the rig floor to control the sleeve's opening and closing, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external hydraulic reservoirs, pneumatic compressors, or electrical power sources at remote locations.
2Reliability
If external power sources and control components are used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes all external power sources (hydraulic reservoirs, pneumatic compressors, electrical motors) and complex control components from the load transfer sleeve system. By eliminating these elements, the system achieves reliability through simplicity, with only essential mechanical components remaining that are easier to maintain and less prone to failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical actuator and associated components are designed as simple, robust, and potentially replaceable elements. If wear or damage occurs, these mechanical parts can be easily replaced without requiring complex diagnostics or specialized maintenance equipment, thereby maintaining system reliability through simplicity and ease of replacement.
3Productivity
If bushing-style load transfer system is used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load transfer sleeve is divided into segmented arcuate members that can independently move and articulate. This segmentation allows the sleeve to adapt to different tubular positions and orientations, enabling faster engagement and disengagement operations that improve productivity while keeping each individual segment mechanically simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical actuator incorporates dynamic elements such as movable arms and adjustable linkages that allow the system to adapt to varying operational conditions. This dynamic capability enables rapid response to different tubular configurations, improving handling speed and productivity without requiring complex control systems.
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
Enables efficient and power-free handling of tubular stands in vertical orientations, allowing for faster and more convenient integration into tubular strings without the need for external power sources, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of tubular handling processes.
Implementation Method 1
A load transfer system includes a load transfer bushing, a elevator, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to retain the load transfer bushing to the spear
Data Source
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AI summary
A load transfer system includes a load transfer bushing (100) having a first and second arcuate segments (400A, 400B) configured to engage a load surface of a tubular or of a collar connected to the tubular, and an elevator (102) configured to receive the load transfer bushing (100). Moving the elevator (102) from its closed position to its open position while the elevator engages the load transfer bushing (100) moves the first and second arcuate (400A, 400B) segments apart, permitting the elevator (102) and the load transfer bushing (100) to be received around the tubular (1100). Moving the elevator (102) from the opened position to the closed position with the load transfer bushing (100) and elevator surrounding the tubular forms an axial engagement load surface for the load surface of the tubular or the collar. The load transfer bushing (100) is disengageable from the elevator (102).