Drill Bit Changer Arm for Automated Rig-Side Bit Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drilling operations require manual intervention for changing drill bits, posing safety risks to operators and increasing downtime, especially in large-scale mining, and there is a need for automated solutions that can handle guide bushings and work with various manufacturers' equipment.
Innovation Solution
A universal device with a rotatable arm, drill bit storage, and clamp mechanism, controlled by a PLC, allows for semi-automatic bit changes and guide bushing handling, capable of retracting and extending to access drill bits safely and efficiently, with remote operation options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual intervention is used for changing drill bits, then operators can perform the task, but safety risks increase and operator exposure to dangerous elements occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service bit changing where the drilling machine automatically performs the bit replacement task without requiring operator intervention at the drill site. The automated mechanism handles the dangerous operations of bit removal and installation, eliminating operator exposure to harmful factors while maintaining operational capability.
2Ease of operation
If manual bit changing is used, then operators can replace bits, but downtime increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated bit changing system allows the drilling machine to service itself by automatically replacing bits without stopping the drilling operation or requiring manual intervention. This continuous operation eliminates downtime associated with manual bit changes, thereby maintaining high productivity throughout the drilling process.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If automated bit changing is implemented, then operator exposure is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated bit changing mechanism is designed as a universal system that integrates multiple functions into a single device. It can handle different bit types and drilling configurations, providing comprehensive bit changing capability across various drilling operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices or complex specialized mechanisms.
4Extent of automation
If semi-automatic bit changing is used, then some automation is achieved, but manual intervention is still required reducing safety benefits
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves full self-service automation where the drilling machine automatically completes the entire bit changing process without requiring any manual intervention. The automated mechanism handles all operations including bit removal, installation, and positioning, completely eliminating operator exposure to dangerous elements while maintaining the highest level of automation.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for changing the drill bits, tricone bits or DTH bits of drill strings on a drilling platform is describe herein, the device comprising an arm element (1) moveable in a rotating, vertical or horizontal manner. A post or supporting element (5) is connected to one of the ends of arm (1) and it is connected to arm (1) in such a way that it moves the arm. Element (5) serves as a base for arm element (1) and includes a drive unit (6) ) allowing arm (1) to retract and extend in a controlled manner. A drill bit storage and receiving element (3) is at the other end of the arm (1), and element (3) has a rotating surface, in addition to having a hydraulic motor (7) or other type of motor to move same.