Expandable Gripping Element for Variable Drilling Tool Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping devices for drilling tools in rock drilling operations are not versatile enough to handle drilling tools of different dimensions and shapes, often requiring dedicated devices and risking damage to critical surfaces due to over-dimensioned gripping forces.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device featuring an expandable gripping element made of fluid-tight elastic material, supported by a frame with fluid channels for pressurized fluid to expand against the drilling tool surfaces, allowing for secure and gentle handling of variously sized and shaped tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gripping devices are used for drilling tools, then gripping force can be generated, but the device cannot handle drilling tools of different dimensions and shapes effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping element is designed to be expandable dynamically. When pressurized fluid is supplied, the gripping element expands radially to adapt to different tool dimensions. This dynamic adjustment allows a single gripping device to handle various drilling tool sizes and shapes without requiring multiple dedicated devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping element changes its physical parameters (volume, shape, surface area) in response to fluid pressure. By controlling the fluid pressure, the gripping element can adjust its expansion level to match different tool dimensions, providing versatility across various tool sizes while maintaining a single device design.
2Reliability
If over-dimensioned gripping forces are applied, then secure gripping is achieved, but damage to critical surfaces of drilling tools occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping element is inflated using pressurized fluid to generate gripping force. This pneumatic/hydraulic mechanism allows for controlled, gradual expansion of the gripping element, enabling the application of appropriate gripping force that is sufficient for secure handling without exceeding the threshold that would damage critical tool surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping force is controlled by adjusting the fluid pressure parameter. By varying the pressure, the gripping element can adapt its expansion level to apply exactly the right amount of force needed for secure gripping without causing damage, unlike fixed-force mechanical grippers that risk over-gripping.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated gripping devices are used for different tool sizes, then each tool can be gripped appropriately, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping device is designed as a universal tool that can handle various drilling tool sizes and shapes. The expandable gripping element, when combined with fluid pressure control, provides multi-functionality that replaces the need for multiple specialized gripping devices, simplifying the overall system while maintaining adaptability.
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 provides secure and gentle handling of drilling tools with different dimensions and shapes, avoiding damage and the need for specialized gripping devices, while ensuring proper friction and expansion properties for effective tool management.
Implementation Method 1
The gripping element is made of fluid-tight elastic material. The gripping element is expanded by means of pressurized fluid.
Implementation Method 2
The gripping element is expanded by means of pressurized fluid. One or more fluid channels lead to an inner surface of the central portion of the sleeve whereby pressurized fluid may flow between surfaces of the elastic gripping element and the shaft or frame.
Data Source
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AI summary
A gripping device, rock drilling unit and method of gripping drilling tools. The gripping device (13) comprises a frame (15) and at least one elastic gripping element (16) connected fluid-tightly to the frame. The gripping element may be expanded by conveying pressurized fluid (P) between surfaces of the frame and the gripping element whereby the gripping element moves against surfaces of the drilling tool (7) and generates friction forces and support.