Integrated Pipe Handler and Power Swivel Unit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe handling systems in the oil and gas industry require separate equipment for pipe handling and power swivel functions, leading to inefficiencies, increased costs, and safety concerns due to the need for multiple service companies, equipment, and personnel, as well as unsafe manual handling practices.
Innovation Solution
A combination tubular and power swivel handler unit that integrates pipe handling and power swivel functions into a single system, featuring a reeving system and adjustable components to facilitate safe and efficient movement of tubulars and power swivels to and from the rig floor, reducing the need for multiple equipment and personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate pipe handling and power swivel systems are used, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases, requiring multiple service companies, equipment, and personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate pipe handling equipment and power swivel equipment into a single integrated combination unit. The pipe handler includes a trough assembly, raising leg, and following leg, while the power swivel is mounted on the same unit with shared hydraulic systems and control mechanisms. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate service companies and equipment while maintaining functional optimization through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can handle pipes, rotate power swivels, and transport equipment to the rig floor. The hydraulic system provides universal actuation for various components including the raising leg, following leg, and power swivel rotation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of specialized equipment needed while maintaining functional capability.
2Reliability
If separate pipe handling and power swivel equipment are used, then each piece of equipment can be specialized, but the quantity of equipment and space required at the rig site increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges pipe handling equipment and power swivel equipment into a single combination unit that occupies one footprint at the rig site. The unit includes integrated components such as the trough assembly, raising leg, following leg, and power swivel, all mounted on a common chassis with shared hydraulic systems. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate equipment spaces while maintaining specialized functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling practices are used to move tubulars and equipment, then flexibility is maintained, but safety risks increase due to accidents and injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual handling operations with automated mechanical systems. The combination unit includes hydraulic actuators for the raising leg, following leg, and power swivel rotation, eliminating the need for manual winching and cable handling. The system provides controlled, safe movement of tubulars and equipment while maintaining flexibility through programmable operations and adjustable parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination unit is designed to perform handling operations autonomously without requiring manual intervention for dangerous tasks. The hydraulic system automatically controls the raising and lowering of legs, rotation of power swivels, and movement of equipment. This self-service capability eliminates safety risks associated with manual handling while maintaining operational flexibility.
4Reliability
If multiple service companies and personnel are used for pipe handling and power swivel operations, then specialized expertise is available, but operational costs and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pipe handling and power swivel operations into a single combination unit that can be operated by one service company with one operator. The integrated design eliminates the need for coordination between multiple service companies and reduces personnel requirements. The unit maintains specialized functionality for both pipe handling and power swivel operations while improving operational efficiency through unified control.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination unit provides universal capability for both pipe handling and power swivel operations, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment and service companies. The hydraulic system and control mechanisms are designed to handle multiple functions, reducing personnel requirements and operational complexity while maintaining the expertise needed for specialized operations.
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 solution enhances safety, reduces operational costs, and increases efficiency by allowing for single-unit operation, eliminating the need for manual winching and multiple personnel, while providing flexible handling capabilities for various rig floor heights and equipment types.
Implementation Method 1
The reeving system may include a cable and sheave arrangement that may be configured to support a load associated with operation of the powered unit
Implementation Method 2
The reeving system may include a first cylinder having a first cylinder end configured to couple with the raising leg and a second cylinder end
Data Source
AI summary
A powered unit with a reeving system for supporting a load associated with operation of the powered unit. The reeving system has a first cylinder with a first rod movingly disposed therein. There is a movable sheave spreader engaged with the first rod, and having a first spreader sheave, the movable sheave spreader also movably engaged with the powered unit.