Gripping Tool Radial Engagement for Tubular Torque Reaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanically-activated tools for gripping tubular articles face challenges in consistently generating adequate torque reaction, especially with small diameters and premium connections having flush or near-flush geometries, where traditional methods like frictional engagement are insufficient.
Innovation Solution
A gripping tool that converts axial motion into radial movement, using a body element with a land element and grip elements to apply radial loads, and incorporates features like radially-oriented slots and grip-enhancing die teeth to enhance frictional torque reaction, allowing for effective engagement and disengagement of tubular articles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frictional engagement with the tubular workpiece is used to react torque, then torque reaction can be achieved, but the ability to generate adequate torque reaction becomes inconsistent especially when casing diameter is small relative to internal bearing surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from relying solely on axial frictional engagement to utilizing radial gripping forces. The grip elements engage the outer surface of the tubular workpiece radially, creating a new dimension of force application that is independent of the axial bearing surface diameter, thereby ensuring consistent torque reaction regardless of casing size.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is divided into distinct functional elements: a land element for axial engagement and multiple grip elements for radial engagement. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function optimally, with grip elements independently providing torque reaction through radial forces on the tubular outer surface.
2Device complexity
If simple land element geometries are used to react axial load, then device complexity is reduced, but mechanical advantage for gripping force is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds radial grip elements that engage the tubular workpiece in a radial direction, perpendicular to the axial land element engagement. This dimensional addition provides mechanical advantage for gripping force without complicating the axial land element geometry, as the radial and axial engagement systems operate independently.
3Reliability
If grip elements engage the pipe or coupling, then torque reaction is improved, but the tool must be displaced axially away to disengage grip elements
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is pre-configured to automatically disengage the grip elements when axially displaced. As the release element moves axially away from the tubular workpiece, its geometry automatically causes the grip elements to retract radially, eliminating the need for manual intervention and simplifying the disengagement process.
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 tool provides a mechanical advantage in gripping force, enabling consistent torque reaction and minimizing deformation, suitable for a wide range of tubular articles including threaded and coupled pipes, by effectively transmitting axial loads into radial loads and utilizing grip-enhancing features to increase friction.
Implementation Method 1
frictional engagement with the tubular workpiece... generate the required friction to adequately react the required torque
Implementation Method 2
body element with means for converting axial motion (i.e., motion in line with the axis of the pipe) of the gripping tool relative to the pipe into a radial movement of the grip elements
Implementation Method 3
land element arranged to react axial compressive load against the field end face of a pipe or of a tubular coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for gripping a tubular workpiece comprises: a land element for reacting compressive load against an end face of the workpiece; grip elements and grip element carrier means; a main body with means for converting axial motion of the tool relative to the workpiece into radial movement of the grip elements from a retracted position to an engaged position exerting radial load on the workpiece; and retractor means for retracting the grip elements from the workpiece the tool is displaced axially away from the workpiece. The grip element carrier means may comprise a cylindrical cage with the grip elements being radially slidable within circumferentially-spaced windows in the cage. The means for converting axial movement and load into radial movement and load may comprise a cone or ramp surface that bears against the grip elements such that radial loads from the grip surfaces are carried through the main body.