Pipe String Safety Device With Automated Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety devices for pipe strings, such as belts connected around the envelope surface of pipe sections, are time-consuming to attach and detach, requiring manual operation and preventing automated pipe string establishment during drilling operations.
Innovation Solution
A safety device with a support structure and clamping arrangement featuring a first and second engagement member, allowing quick attachment and detachment, and capable of automated operation using a robot unit, which includes a clamping mechanism that changes between disengaged and engaged states to securely connect to pipe sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a belt safety device is connected around the envelope surface of the pipe section, then the pipe string is prevented from slippage, but the attachment and detachment process becomes time-consuming and requires manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The safety device is divided into modular components including a support structure with engagement members that can independently clamp onto the pipe section. This segmentation allows for quicker attachment and detachment compared to a continuous belt, while maintaining the safety function of preventing pipe string slippage during drilling operations.
2Reliability
If a belt safety device is used, then the pipe string is secured, but automated operation is prevented due to manual attachment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement members are designed with movable clamping arrangements that can transition between engaged and disengaged states. This dynamic design enables automated operation where the clamping mechanism can be actuated by robotic systems or automated drilling equipment, eliminating the need for manual attachment while maintaining reliable pipe string securing.
3Loss of time
If a clamping arrangement with engagement members is used, then quick attachment and detachment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex automated clamping mechanism is extracted as a separate, self-contained module that can be independently controlled. This allows the main safety device structure to remain relatively simple while the automated clamping function is implemented through a dedicated mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged as needed, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining quick attachment capabilities.
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
Enables rapid and reliable attachment and detachment of the safety device to pipe sections, facilitating automated operation and preventing pipe string slippage by increasing the force applied by wedged slips, thus ensuring stable pipe string positioning during drilling.
Implementation Method 1
an assembly of wedged slips employed to the pipe string... due to the wedge shape of the slips gradually increase the force in which the pipe string is connected to the assembly of wedged slips
Data Source
AI summary
A safety device (20) for attaching to a pipe string (10) comprising a plurality of connected pipe sections (12). The device is configured, comprises a support structure (22) and a clamping arrangement (24) comprising a first engagement member (32) and a second engagement member (34), which clamping arrangement (24) comprises a disengaged state and an engaged state. The support structure comprises a recess (30) adapted to receive the envelope surface of the pipe section. The first engagement member and the second engagement member are arranged in different parts of the recess so that opposite sides of the pipe section are clamped between the first engagement member and the second engagement member when the clamping arrangement is in the engaged state.