Directional Core Drilling System With Nested Torque Latch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current directional drilling systems are limited in their ability to obtain larger core samples due to the size constraints of the core barrel relative to the drill bit diameter, and they lack effective steering mechanisms for precise directional control.
Innovation Solution
The directional core drilling assembly includes an outer barrel assembly with steering pads for orienting the drill bit and a drive barrel with a torque latch assembly and anti-rotation bearing system, allowing for a core barrel that is rotationally fixed relative to the drive barrel, enabling the capture of larger core samples and precise directional control by steering the drill bit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the core barrel size is increased to capture larger core samples, then the core sample diameter is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for anti-rotation bearing assembly and torque latch assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The core barrel is nested within the drive barrel, with the anti-rotation bearing assembly and torque latch assembly integrated into the nested structure. The inner drive assembly is receivable within the outer barrel assembly, creating a compact nested configuration that enables larger core barrel diameter without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The drilling system is segmented into distinct functional assemblies: outer barrel assembly for steering, inner drive assembly for rotation, and core barrel for sample capture. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling the core barrel to be sized for larger samples while the steering and drive mechanisms remain modular and manageable
2Measurement precision
If steering pads are added to the outer barrel assembly for directional control, then the directional control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Steering pads are strategically positioned at specific locations on the outer barrel assembly to provide directional control only where needed. The pads are located to engage with the borehole wall at precise points, enabling directional steering without requiring complex steering mechanisms throughout the entire assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The outer barrel assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables directional steering through pads, and houses the inner drive assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated steering mechanisms, thereby controlling device complexity while achieving precise directional control
3Ease of operation
If the inner drive assembly is made retractable within the outer barrel assembly, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The inner drive assembly transitions from a fixed to a movable configuration, allowing it to be inserted and retracted within the outer barrel assembly. This dynamic capability enables the inner drive assembly to be positioned optimally during operation and easily removed for maintenance or replacement, significantly improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The torque latch assembly and anti-rotation bearing assembly are pre-configured to automatically engage when the inner drive assembly is inserted into the outer barrel assembly. This preliminary configuration of coupling mechanisms eliminates the need for complex manual assembly procedures, reducing operational complexity while maintaining ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A directional core drilling includes an outer barrel assembly with at least one steering pad for orientating a drill bit within a hole and a drive barrel rotationally supported within the outer barrel assembly. An inner drive assembly is receivable within the outer barrel assembly and includes a torque latch assembly and an anti-rotation bearing assembly. The torque latch assembly includes latch arms configured to releasably couple a rotational drive input to the drive barrel. A core barrel is coupled to the anti-rotation bearing assembly and is rotationally fixed relative to the drive barrel.