Hydraulic Clamp Converter for Fast Tubular Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for connecting tubular members on drilling rigs, such as those using API 16A clamps, pose safety risks and require significant manual effort due to the need for handling and tightening bolts at elevated heights, which is time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A clamp system featuring an annular body with fixed and clamping segments that can be actuated between retracted and extended positions to securely connect tubular members, exerting forces to facilitate quick and safe coupling without the need for manual bolt tightening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional API 16A clamps with bolts are used to connect tubular members, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the operation requires significant manual effort and time, especially when handling bolts at elevated heights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical bolt-tightening system with a hydraulic actuation system. The clamp body includes a hydraulic cylinder that automatically actuates the clamping segments to engage with the tubular members, eliminating the need for manual bolt handling and tightening operations at elevated heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp system performs self-service through its automated hydraulic actuation mechanism. Once positioned around the tubular members, the hydraulic system automatically activates the clamping segments to secure the connection without requiring additional manual intervention for tightening or securing operations.
2Productivity
If traditional bolt tightening procedures are used, then the connection achieves sufficient clamping force, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp body is divided into multiple independent clamping segments that can be individually actuated by hydraulic cylinders. This segmentation allows each segment to independently engage with the tubular members, distributing the clamping force evenly and enabling faster, more efficient connection compared to traditional single-unit clamps requiring multiple bolts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hydraulic actuators integrated into the clamp body to provide the necessary clamping force. The hydraulic system delivers high force through fluid pressure, rapidly actuating the clamping segments to secure the tubular members without the time-consuming manual bolt tightening process.
3Reliability
If manual bolt handling is required at elevated heights, then the connection can be made, but safety risks increase for workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical bolt handling with an automated hydraulic actuation system. The hydraulic cylinders are integrated into the clamp body and automatically activate the clamping segments, eliminating the need for workers to manually handle bolts at elevated heights and thereby removing the associated safety risks.
4Strength
If traditional clamps require multiple bolts and C-shaped members, then the connection is secure, but the device complexity and handling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple traditional clamp components (C-shaped members, multiple bolts, separate clamping elements) into a single integrated clamp body with multiple actuated segments. This unified structure maintains the secure connection strength of traditional clamps while simplifying the overall device and reducing the number of separate parts that must be assembled and handled.
Data Source
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AI summary
A clamp for coupling two tubular members together includes an annular body. The clamp also includes a plurality of fixed segments that are configured to be secured at least partially within a recess formed in an inner surface of the body. The fixed segments are circumferentially offset from one another with respect to a central longitudinal axis through the body. The fixed segments are configured to exert a downward force on a first hub of a first tubular member. The clamp also includes a plurality of clamping segments that extend radially through the body. The clamping segments are circumferentially offset from one another. The clamping segments are axially offset from the fixed segments. The clamping segments are configured to actuate between a retracted position and an extended position. The clamping segments in the extended position are configured to exert an upward force on a second hub of a second tubular.