Directional Drill Stake-Down Securing with Asymmetric Hydraulic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing horizontal directional drill systems lack a reliable and energy-efficient securing mechanism that can adapt to various soil conditions.
Innovation Solution
A stake down system for directional drills that includes a plurality of stake implements on one lateral side and a single or fewer stake implements on the opposite side, allowing for adjustable staking force based on soil conditions, and utilizing hydraulic cylinders for efficient actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple stake implements are used on both lateral sides to maximize holding strength, then the directional drill securing reliability is improved, but the energy consumption increases due to requiring more actuation force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring a different number of stake implements on opposite lateral sides of the directional drill carriage. Specifically, one lateral side has a first number of stake implements while the opposite side has a second number, where the first and second numbers are different. This asymmetric configuration allows the system to optimize securing reliability in the direction where it is most needed while reducing energy consumption by having fewer stakes on the opposite side, thereby resolving the technical contradiction between reliability and energy consumption.
2Reliability
If stake implements are arranged to provide maximum holding strength, then the securing reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the device complexity while maintaining securing reliability by using an asymmetric configuration of stake implements. Instead of using equal numbers of stakes on both sides (which would require more complex control and actuation systems), the invention uses a first number of stakes on one lateral side and a second number on the opposite side, where the numbers differ. This reduces the overall complexity of the stake arrangement system while still providing adequate holding strength through strategic placement of stakes where most needed.
3Ease of operation
If hydraulic cylinders are used to actuate stake implements, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies hydraulics by using hydraulic cylinders to actuate the stake implements. The hydraulic cylinders are coupled to the directional drill carriage and are configured to move the stake implements between engaged and disengaged positions. This hydraulic actuation system provides smooth, controlled, and easy operation of the stakes, eliminating the need for manual or complex mechanical actuation mechanisms, thereby improving ease of operation while the integrated hydraulic system manages the complexity centrally.
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 system provides improved holding strength and reduced energy consumption by optimizing the number and arrangement of stake implements according to soil conditions, ensuring stable directional drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing hydraulic cylinders for efficient actuation
Data Source
AI summary
A directional drill securing device and associated methods are shown. Securing devices and methods shown include a plurality of staking devices on a single lateral side of a directional drill. Using examples shown, a lower force is required to drive multiple staking devices than would be needed for a larger staking device of equivalent area.