Counterweight Assembly for Self-Propelled Derrick Rig Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-propelled derrick rigs face challenges in stability and mobility due to the limitations of guy wire systems, particularly in multi-well pad environments where permanent anchors are not feasible, leading to increased setup time and reduced operational efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A portable base beam system with stabilizer arms and a counterweight assembly that allows for quick and stable mounting of self-propelled derrick rigs, featuring a longitudinally extending metal main beam with pivotally attached stabilizer arms and adjustable stabilizer pads, along with a counterweight sled to prevent the rig from tipping or lifting off the ground.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If guy wires are used to stabilize the rig, then the rated capacity increases, but setup time increases and adaptability to multi-well pads decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverated capacityVSAvoidsetup time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The base beam is divided into modular components including a main beam, stabilizer arms, and counterweight assembly that can be independently transported and quickly assembled. This segmentation allows the system to be deployed faster than traditional guy wire setups while maintaining structural integrity and load capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base beam is pre-configured with stabilizer arms and counterweight mechanisms before deployment. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site assembly and adjustment of guy wires, reducing setup time while preserving the stabilizing function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If guy wires are used to stabilize the rig, then the rated capacity increases, but adaptability to multi-well pad environments decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverated capacityVSAvoidadaptability to multi-well pads
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The base beam system is designed as a universal platform that can be deployed in various well pad configurations without requiring permanent anchors. The stabilizer arms and counterweight assembly provide adaptability to different ground conditions and locations, making the system versatile for multi-well pad environments while maintaining high rated capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a portable base beam system is used instead of permanent anchors, then mobility and adaptability improve, but stability under high hook loads and wind loading may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemobilityVSAvoidstability under load
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

A counterweight assembly is integrated into the base beam system to provide downward force that counteracts uplift forces from high hook loads and wind loading. This counterweight mechanism maintains stability and prevents the portable base beam from lifting or tipping under extreme conditions, ensuring the system remains as stable as permanent anchor systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Solution Approach 2:

The stabilizer arms are designed with pivot points and adjustable positioning capabilities that allow optimization of the geometric configuration for maximum stability. The curved or angled design of stabilizer elements enhances the mechanical advantage and load distribution, improving stability under high loads while maintaining portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Data Source

PatentUS9341028B2Counterweight assembly for a self-propelled derrick rig assembly
Publication Date: 2016.05.17 BLACK HAWK ENERGY SERVICES
  • US9341028B2 patent drawing
  • US9341028B2 patent drawing
  • US9341028B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Improvements to base beams and self-propelled derrick rigs are described. The base beam can have two or more stabilizer arms which can be deployed. The base beam is also designed to support the derrick rig. An optional counterweight assembly can be connected to the front of the rig. The self-propelled derrick rig can be easily and quickly mounted to the base beam, and when mounted, the assembly will be able to withstand high hook loads and wind loading without the danger of the rig coming off of its wheels or falling over.