Coiled Tubing Injector Handler Linkage System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coiled tubing injector handling systems at well sites require cranes for lifting and positioning, which are costly, complex, and risky, and do not allow for precise placement and support of coiled tubing injectors over wellheads without inducing bending moments on the wellhead.
Innovation Solution
A handler apparatus with a linkage system comprising pivotally connected rigid links and extendable members, allowing the coiled tubing injector to be elevated, rotated, and precisely positioned over the wellhead, eliminating the need for cranes by providing vertical and lateral movement, and enabling side-to-side and tilt adjustments for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cranes are used for lifting and positioning coiled tubing injectors, then the injector can be positioned over the wellhead, but the system becomes more complex, costly, and risky with potential damage to the wellhead from induced bending moments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lifting, positioning, and support functions into an integrated linkage system that is pivotally coupled to the base. The linkage system merges the functions of elevation (vertical movement) and extension (lateral movement) into a unified mechanical structure, eliminating the need for separate crane operations and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it elevates the support platform vertically, extends it laterally outward from the base, and provides stable support for the coiled tubing injector. This multi-functional design replaces the need for specialized crane equipment while achieving the same positioning objectives.
2Measurement precision
If cranes are used to hold and position the injector, then positioning is achieved, but bending moments are induced on the wellhead causing potential damage and increased risk
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is designed to counterbalance loads through its pivotally connected structure. By distributing the weight of the coiled tubing injector and pressure control stack through the pivotally coupled links, the system prevents concentrated bending moments from being imposed on the wellhead, thereby reducing the risk of damage while maintaining precise positioning capability.
3Device complexity
If a single linkage system is used for both elevation and extension, then device complexity is reduced, but the mechanical stress on individual links increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is divided into multiple pivotally connected links rather than using a single rigid structure. This segmentation distributes the mechanical loads and stresses across multiple individual links, reducing the stress concentration on any single link while maintaining the overall structural integrity and functionality of the elevation and extension mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A coiled tubing handler lifts and extends outwardly over wellhead a support platform 42 on which a coiled tubing injector 12 is mounted. The handler collapses into a compact arrangement that allows it and the coiled tubing injector to be transported to a well site on a vehicle or trailer 18, and then used at the well site to raise, position and support the coiled tubing injector connected to a blow out preventer 76 and riser assembly 72 for connection to a well head. The support platform may be tilted backward and torward, shifted from side-to-side, and raised and lowered on the platform.