Connector Head Actuator for Wired Drill Pipe Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wired drill pipe systems for high-speed data transfer are hindered during tripping operations as they require the top drive to be connected, and existing solutions with adjustment arms are heavy, inconvenient, and fail to reach or correctly position the communication sub due to varying pipe heights.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with an actuator that moves the connector head in parallel with the drill pipe's longitudinal axis for coupling and decoupling, using a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, and a guiding mechanism for precise positioning, allowing for correct coupling regardless of pipe height and enabling data transfer without hindering access during tripping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustment arms are used to position the communication sub, then the apparatus can adapt to different pipe heights, but the apparatus becomes heavy and requires multiple actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the positioning function from complex adjustment arms and relocates it to the actuator through a single linear movement mechanism. The connector head is moved along the longitudinal axis of the drill pipe by one actuator, eliminating the need for separate adjustment arms and their associated actuators, thereby reducing overall apparatus weight while maintaining adaptability to different pipe heights
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator performs multiple functions: it positions the connector head along the longitudinal axis to accommodate varying pipe heights, and it also controls the coupling and decoupling movements. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate adjustment arms and multiple actuators, reducing apparatus weight while maintaining adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustment arms are used to position the communication sub, then the apparatus can adapt to different pipe heights, but the operation becomes inconvenient and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the complex adjustment arm mechanism and its associated control systems, replacing them with a single actuator that performs positioning through linear movement along the drill pipe's longitudinal axis. This simplification significantly improves ease of operation while maintaining the ability to adapt to different pipe heights
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using adjustment arms that move perpendicular to the drill pipe axis to accommodate height variations, the invention inverts the approach by using linear movement along the longitudinal axis. This inverted mechanism achieves the same adaptability with simpler operation, as it requires only one degree of freedom controlled by a single actuator
3Speed
If the top drive is connected to the drill string for data reading, then high-speed data transfer is achieved, but data cannot be obtained during tripping operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a connector head as an intermediary device that couples to the drill pipe end during tripping operations. This connector head contains the communication sub that interfaces with the wired drill pipe, enabling data transfer without requiring the top drive to be connected. The intermediary connector head bridges the gap between the drill pipe and the data acquisition system, maintaining high-speed data transfer capability during tripping
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static top-drive-connected configuration to a dynamic connector head that can be coupled and decoupled as needed. The connector head provides operational flexibility, allowing the system to maintain high-speed data transfer during both drilling and tripping operations by adapting its configuration to the current operational state
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
Enables efficient and reliable data transfer from wired drill pipes of varying heights, ensuring correct coupling and decoupling, even during tripping operations, by using a lightweight and adaptable system that automatically adjusts to different pipe protrusions, thus facilitating continuous data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
using a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
using a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, an apparatus for coupling and decoupling a connector head to and from an end of a wired drill pipe held by an elevator includes an actuator configured to move the connector head between a coupled position and a decoupled position. The actuator is configured to move the connector head in parallel with the longitudinal axis of the wired drill pipe before moving it away from said wired drill pipe when decoupling the connector head from the wired drill pipe, and to move the connector head into the longitudinal axis of the wired drill pipe before moving it in parallel with said longitudinal axis when coupling the connector head to the wired drill pipe.