Autonomous Rod Handling for Safer Drilling Rig Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exploration drilling rigs require skilled operators and manual intervention, which is labor-intensive and hazardous, especially in remote and harsh conditions, necessitating a safer and more autonomous rod handling system.
Innovation Solution
A rod handling system for drilling rigs that includes a rod storage bin, a rod loader, a rod lifter, and a rod transfer assembly, all of which can be autonomously operated, allowing for the automated handling and transfer of drilling rods without direct human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling of drill rods is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity and hazard increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rod handling system performs self-service by automatically loading rods into the drill string without requiring manual intervention. The system includes a rod storage bin with multiple rod supports, a rod loader with rod holders, and a rod lifter that collectively enable the system to handle its own materials autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical handling system with an automated mechanical system. The rod loader uses a loading arm to automatically transfer rods from storage to the drill string, eliminating the need for manual lifting and positioning operations
2Device complexity
If manual rod handling is used, then system complexity is reduced, but safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary components between the operator and the hazardous task. The rod loader acts as an intermediary device that receives rods from the storage bin and transfers them to the drill string, shielding the operator from direct exposure to heavy materials and potential injury
3Productivity
If automated rod handling is implemented, then labor intensity is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated rod handling system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a rod storage bin with multiple rod supports for storage, a rod loader with rod holders and loading arm for transfer, and a rod lifter for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall complex system manageable and maintainable
Data Source
AI summary
A rod handling system for a drilling rig includes a rod storage bin incorporating vertically stacked rod supports adapted to hold a respective row of rods in side by side relationship in a substantially horizontally extending storage configuration. A rod loader having a plurality of rod holders is moveable between a loading position in which a rod can be placed into or removed from each rod holder, and a transfer position in which the rods are transferable between each rod holder and a respective rod support of the rod storage bin A rod lifter is moveable between a lowered position and a raised position for lifting rods between the storage configuration and a raised configuration to present rods to a drilling head. A rod transfer assembly can transfer individual rods between selected rod supports of the rod storage bin and the rod lifter.