Overshot Assembly Pivot Joint Angular Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional overshot assemblies for drilling operations are limited by the quality of materials used in spearheads and locking dogs, which are prone to distortion and wear, and require a narrow range of angular orientations for proper engagement, making them unreliable and challenging to use in varying drill hole conditions.
Innovation Solution
The development of an overshot assembly with a pivot joint element, latching and locking mechanisms, and wedge portions that allow secure engagement and operation over a wide range of angular orientations, eliminating the need for a spearhead assembly and utilizing machined materials for improved reliability and robustness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional casting process is used to manufacture spearheads and locking dogs, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but material quality and wear resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing method from casting to machining, fundamentally altering the production parameter to achieve superior material quality and wear resistance while accepting increased manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hardened steel materials with specific mechanical properties (Rockwell C 40-50 hardness) that are typically associated with machined components, creating a composite solution that combines high-strength material with precision machining
2Device complexity
If conventional spearheads and locking dogs are designed for narrow angular orientation, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying drill hole conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pivotable distal portion that can rotate relative to the proximal portion, transforming the static engagement structure into a dynamic one that automatically adapts to varying angular orientations between the overshot assembly and head assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds rotational freedom in multiple planes (first plane and second plane perpendicular to the first) to the engagement mechanism, transitioning from single-axis alignment to multi-dimensional orientation capability
3Device complexity
If conventional locking mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and robustness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into an integrated system where the pivot joint element, latching members, and locking members work together as a unified engagement mechanism, improving reliability through coordinated action
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates spring-loaded latching members that engage before full loading occurs, providing preliminary securing and distributing loads to prevent sudden failure during retrieval 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 provides a more robust and reliable overshot assembly capable of functioning across a wide range of angular orientations, reducing the risk of overloading and improving the reliability of drilling operations by using machined materials and innovative locking mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a pivot joint element positioned between and coupled to the proximal portion and the distal portion, wherein the distal portion is configured for pivotal movement in at least two planes relative to the proximal portion
Implementation Method 2
at least one latch member configured for movement about and between a latched position and a retracted position
Implementation Method 3
at least one wedge portion positioned within the elongate body and configured to effect positioning of the latching and locking members
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
An overshot assembly for operative coupling to a wireline and a head assembly within a drilling system. The overshot assembly has at least one latch member that securely engages the inner surface of the head assembly without the use of a spearhead.