Core Tube Handling Device for Diamond Drilling Rigs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling core tubes in diamond core drilling rigs require manual handling, posing physical challenges and safety concerns due to the weight and length of the tubes, which can exceed 3-6 meters and weigh 120 kg or more.
Innovation Solution
A core tube handling device comprising a slew arm, pivot arm, and clamps that are mounted on a drilling rig's mast, allowing for pivoting and translational motion to securely grip and lift core tubes, with optional hydraulic actuators for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual handling methods are used for core tubes, then device complexity is reduced, but safety and physical strain increase due to the weight and length of the tubes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical handling device as an intermediary between the worker and the core tube. The device includes a clamp assembly that grips the core tube, a pivot arm that positions the tube, and a slew arm that moves the entire assembly. This intermediary mechanism eliminates direct manual handling of the heavy core tube while adding controlled complexity to the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated mechanical system. Instead of workers directly lifting and moving core tubes, the system uses hydraulic or electric actuators to control the clamp, pivot arm, and slew arm. This substitution eliminates physical strain on workers while introducing mechanical complexity to the handling process.
2Ease of operation
If automated handling devices are implemented, then safety and ease of operation improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the handling system into distinct functional segments: a clamp assembly for gripping the core tube, a pivot arm for positioning, and a slew arm for movement. Each segment is independently controlled by its own actuator, allowing simplified control of complex motion. This segmentation makes the overall system easier to operate while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic elements including a pivot arm that can rotate to different positions and a slew arm that can move the entire assembly across the drill string. These dynamic components allow the handling device to adapt to different core tube positions and orientations, improving ease of operation. The dynamic nature is controlled through actuators that manage the complexity of motion.
3Productivity
If hydraulic actuators are used for pivoting and clamping, then operational efficiency improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates hydraulic actuators to provide the necessary force for gripping heavy core tubes and moving the arm assemblies. The hydraulic system delivers high force with relatively small actuator size, improving handling efficiency. The complexity of the hydraulic system is managed by using standard components and controlling them through simple electrical signals from the control unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical actuation with automated hydraulic or electric actuators. This substitution improves operational efficiency by eliminating manual labor and enabling precise control of the clamp and arm movements. The added complexity of the actuator system is offset by the significant improvements in productivity and ease of operation.
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 device enables safer and more efficient handling of core tubes by reducing manual labor, minimizing physical strain, and improving operational safety during core retrieval and insertion processes.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator can optionally comprise a hydraulic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
a first clamp having first and second jaws movable toward and away from one another for gripping the core tubes
Data Source
AI summary
A core tube handling device can be used with exploratory drilling rigs. The device can include a slew arm mounted on the rig's mast and a pivot arm mounted on the slew arm. When the slew arm is adjacent to the mast, clamping devices on the pivot arm can grasp and hold a core tube from the drill string. The slew arm can pivot away from the mast and align the pivot arm with a tray that receives and holds the tubes. The pivot arm can pivot to a position proximate the tray and release the tube. The tray can be rotatable and translatable to facilitate transfer of the tube from the pivot arm to the tray.