Conduit Connection Apparatus Using Rotating Collar Hub
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit connection methods in oil and gas well operations are inefficient, requiring tools and posing safety risks due to the need for hammer unions, which can cause injuries and equipment damage, and result in increased rig time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A conduit connection apparatus comprising a stinger assembly, a receptacle assembly, and a collar assembly that allows for tool-free, hammerless connection of various conduit types, including hoses, pipes, and flanges, using a rotating collar hub to secure and seal connections without the need for heavy hammers or specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hammer unions are used to connect conduit, then the connection can be made securely, but the process requires heavy hammers and tools, posing safety risks and increasing worker injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the hammer from the connection process. The collar assembly with its wedge-shaped feature and camming action provides the necessary connection force without requiring external hammering, thereby removing the safety hazards associated with hammer use while maintaining connection integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The collar assembly acts as an intermediary device between the two conduit ends. It mediates the connection by using its internal wedge-shaped feature and camming action to securely join the conduit ends without direct hammer impact on the workers or equipment
2Reliability
If hammer unions are used for conduit connection, then connections can be made, but the process is time-consuming and increases rig time
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly is pre-configured with the wedge-shaped feature and camming surfaces in the correct positions. This preliminary arrangement allows the connection to be made quickly by simply inserting the conduit ends and allowing the camming action to automatically secure the connection, eliminating the time-consuming step-by-step hammering process
Solution Approach 2:
The collar assembly utilizes dynamic camming action to secure the connection. As the collar is positioned, the wedge-shaped feature automatically cams against the conduit ends, creating a secure connection through dynamic mechanical action rather than static, time-consuming hammering
3Ease of manufacture
If hammer unions are used, then conduit can be connected, but connection sealing problems occur due to improper hammering or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly is self-aligning and self-securing. The wedge-shaped feature automatically positions itself to engage with the conduit ends at the correct angle, and the camming action automatically applies the necessary force to create a proper seal, eliminating the need for worker skill and attention to detail in hammering technique
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the mechanical parameters of the connection process by using a controlled camming action with specific wedge angles and surface geometries. This replaces the uncontrolled variable of human hammering technique with precise, engineered mechanical parameters that consistently produce proper sealing
4Adaptability or versatility
If hammer unions are used, then conduit connection is possible, but the process requires specialized tools and worker training
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly is designed as a universal connection device that can accommodate various conduit types and sizes. The same basic collar design with wedge-shaped feature and camming surfaces can be adapted to different applications, eliminating the need for multiple specialized hammer union tools and the training required to use them
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus used for connecting adjoining conduit segments in oil and gas well operations is disclosed. The apparatus and method discloses use of a receptacle assembly attached to one conduit segment and stinger assembly attached to a second conduit segment. A rotatable wheeled hub threadably joins the stinger assembly to the receptacle assembly. The conduit connection ends of the stinger assembly and the receptacle assembly may be configured to accommodate a variety of common types of conduit connections such as Chiksan, hose, pipe, tubing, casing, flanges, hubs and other conduits for conveying media.