Casing Pipe Coupling with Guided Alignment and Power Tong Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling systems for oil and gas wells lack efficient methods and structures for securely and reliably connecting and disconnecting casing pipes, particularly in the context of oil or gas rigs, and do not effectively utilize power tongs for rotational movement.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling system comprising a pipe guide assembly with pivotable arms, housings, and a telescopic piston, combined with a power tong table assembly, allows for precise alignment and rotational movement of casing pipes using a telescopic piston to move components towards the pipe and a power tong assembly for secure coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional pipe coupling systems are used, then the basic coupling function is provided, but the alignment precision and operational safety are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pipe guide assembly as an intermediary device between the pipe handling system and the coupling operation. This assembly includes guide arms, housings, and a plate with a throat that precisely guides the second casing pipe onto the first casing pipe, significantly improving alignment precision and operational safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional manual alignment methods with a mechanical pipe guide assembly that uses pivotable arms, housings, and a telescopic piston system to automatically achieve precise alignment, thereby improving both measurement precision and operational reliability
2Productivity
If manual pipe coupling methods are used, then the system structure is simple, but the productivity and operational efficiency are low
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe guide assembly serves multiple functions: it guides the pipe during coupling, provides structural support through pivotable arms, enables rotational movement via the power tong assembly, and ensures precise positioning. This multi-functionality increases productivity without requiring multiple separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic elements including pivotable arms that can adjust their position, a rotatable plate with throat that can orient itself, and a power tong assembly that provides controlled rotational movement. These dynamic components enable efficient coupling operations while adapting to operational requirements
3Reliability
If power tong assembly is added for rotational movement, then the coupling reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power tong assembly with the pipe guide assembly, integrating the rotational capability directly into the coupling system. This combination improves coupling reliability by ensuring proper thread engagement while managing device complexity through unified design
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
The system enables efficient and reliable connection and disconnection of casing pipes, enhancing operational efficiency and safety on oil or gas rigs by providing precise alignment and rotational control.
Implementation Method 1
a telescopic piston pivotally coupled to a lower portion of a first leg of the four legs and pivotally coupled to an upper portion of a second leg of the four legs
Implementation Method 2
a first arm pivotably coupled to the deck; a second arm pivotably coupled to the deck
Implementation Method 3
rotating the second casing pipe using a power tong assembly disposed on the table
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of coupling a second casing pipe to a first casing pipe are disclosed herein, which methods may include: providing a pipe guide assembly that includes: a deck; a first arm; a second arm; a first housing coupled to the first arm; a second housing coupled to the second arm; a plate rotatably coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the plate having a throat; and a piston; providing a power tong table assembly that includes: a table; a first leg; a second leg; a third leg; a fourth leg; and disposing a portion of the second casing pipe in the throat of the plate and between the first housing and the second housing; causing the first housing, the second housing, and the plate to move towards the first casing pipe; and rotating the second casing pipe using a power tong assembly.