Passive Tool Coupling With Rotational Locking for Pipe Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe handling operations in drilling rigs are labor-intensive and dangerous, relying on human manual operations, and robotic systems lack versatility and efficient tool exchange mechanisms, especially for attaching and detaching tools without power actuation.
Innovation Solution
A passive coupling mechanism that allows secure attachment and detachment of tools to a tool arm through rotational engagement, eliminating the need for hydraulic, electrical, or other power sources, enabling interchangeable end effectors and increased robotic versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If human operators manually maneuver drill pipe stands, then the operations can be performed with simple equipment, but the labor intensity increases and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to automatically lock and unlock through rotational movement of the tool arm itself, without requiring external actuators, hydraulics, or electrical systems. The mechanism uses its own motion to engage and disengage tools, eliminating the need for separate actuation systems and reducing overall system complexity while enabling automated operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If robotic systems are introduced to handle pipe operations, then labor intensity and safety risks are reduced, but the complexity of the system increases and versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the actuation function from the coupling mechanism itself, separating the locking/unlocking function from any external power systems. By removing the need for hydraulics, electronics, or separate actuators, the system achieves automated operation through simple rotational movement, significantly reducing system complexity while maintaining robotic capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The passive coupling mechanism is designed to be universally applicable to different tool types and robotic systems. The standardized interface and simple rotational engagement allow the same coupling mechanism to work with various end effectors and tool arms, increasing system versatility without requiring complex adaptation systems.
3Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms with power actuation are used, then secure connection is achieved, but the device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism uses the rotational movement of the tool arm during normal operation to automatically engage and disengage the coupling. The mechanism is designed so that the tool arm's own motion performs the coupling function, eliminating the need for separate actuators, sensors, or control systems while maintaining secure connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a passive mechanical intermediary system consisting of cam surfaces, locking lugs, and spring-loaded elements that translate simple rotational movement into secure locking action. This intermediary mechanism provides reliable connection without requiring direct actuation, reducing complexity while maintaining connection security.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling mechanism for securing a tool to a tool arm may include a housing and an engaging lock. The engaging lock may be arranged within the housing and configured for rotation by the tool arm. Rotation of the engaging lock may drive locking mechanisms partially through the housing to establish a longitudinally secured connection.