Bi-Directional Cam Linkage Expands Tubular Running Tool Size Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tubular running tools, such as those used in drilling and well servicing, are limited in their ability to accommodate a wide range of workpiece sizes and require specific operational sequences for re-latching, while also not simultaneously enabling functions like rotation, pushing, or fluid filling.
Innovation Solution
A variable-length axial linkage that translates bi-directional rotation into axial movement, allowing for greater operating range, simultaneous transfer of compressive and tensile axial loads, and flexible re-latching sequences, suitable for retrofitting into existing gripping tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional power tong method is used to grip and assemble tubular strings, then the gripping mechanism is simple and reliable, but it cannot simultaneously enable rotation, pushing, or fluid filling functions, and requires personnel in hazardous locations
Solution Approach 1:
The casing running tool is designed to perform multiple functions including gripping, rotating, pushing, and fluid filling operations through a single integrated device mounted on the top drive, eliminating the need for separate power tongs and hazardous manual operations while maintaining mechanical reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length axial linkage is used in the gripping tool, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate a wide range of workpiece sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The axial linkage is designed with variable length capability through telescoping sections or adjustable linkages that can extend and retract, allowing the gripping tool to accommodate tubular workpieces of varying sizes while maintaining a compact storage configuration and enabling precise positioning through controlled extension
3Strength
If a unidirectional rotation linkage is used, then the mechanism is simple, but it cannot transfer both compressive and tensile axial loads
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism incorporates asymmetric structural elements and load paths that are specifically designed to handle both compressive and tensile loads differently, with reinforced configurations for each load type, enabling bidirectional force transmission while maintaining mechanical efficiency and reliability
4Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid linkage with fixed geometry is used, then manufacturing is simple, but it cannot provide variable operating range for different workpiece dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The axial linkage is divided into multiple segmented sections that can extend and retract relative to each other, allowing variable length adjustment for different workpiece sizes while maintaining simple individual component manufacturing and enabling controlled extension through mechanical actuation 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
Enhances the operational flexibility and safety of tubular running tools by accommodating a wider range of workpiece sizes and enabling versatile load transfer, reducing the need for specific operational sequences and minimizing human intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a drive thread acting between the drive cam body and the intermediate cam body... a driven thread acting between the intermediate cam body and the driven cam body... which translates bi-directional rotation into axial movement
Implementation Method 2
a latch body... a striker body... configured for engagement with the latch body
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
An axial linkage acting between the main body and the gripping assembly of a tool for gripping tubular workpieces includes a drive cam body that coaxially engages an intermediate cam body via a drive thread, with the intermediate cam body coaxially engaging a driven cam body via a driven thread, and with the drive thread and the driven thread having opposite orientations. The linkage includes a latch mechanism for preventing relative axial displacement of the drive cam body and the driven cam body. In operation while unlatched, the linkage converts bi-directional relative rotation into relative axial movement of the drive cam body and the driven cam body, thus increasing or decreasing the overall length of the linkage according to the rotational direction. The linkage can be re-latched using any of multiple operational sequences.