Robotic Pipe Handler With Inclined Bridge And Rotating Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe handling systems in subterranean operations face inefficiencies in manipulating and transporting tubulars between horizontal and vertical storage areas and the well center, particularly due to limitations in orientation changes and equipment handling capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A pipe handling system comprising a bridge with inclined rails and an arm that can rotate and lift tubulars between horizontal and vertical orientations, allowing for efficient movement between storage areas and the rig floor, with optional use of a shuttle for large or bulky equipment and a tubular lift for orientation changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional pipe handling systems are used to move tubulars between horizontal storage and vertical storage, then the system can perform basic tubular movement, but the efficiency of rig operations is reduced due to limitations in orientation changes and equipment handling capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple operations including gripping tubulars, changing their orientation between horizontal and vertical positions, and transporting them between storage areas. This universal capability eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment for each operation, thereby improving overall rig operation efficiency while maintaining adaptability to different handling requirements
2Productivity
If manual handling methods are used for tubular manipulation, then the system is simple in structure, but the efficiency and capacity to manage diverse tubular sizes and shapes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is equipped with sensors and control mechanisms that enable it to autonomously detect tubular characteristics, adjust gripping force, and perform orientation changes without continuous manual intervention. This self-service capability increases handling efficiency and capacity for diverse tubular types while the modular robotic design keeps system complexity manageable through standardized components
Data Source
AI summary
An equipment handling system that can include a bridge disposed above a horizontal storage area and coupled to a guide rail, an equipment basket, a crane configured to transport the equipment basket to an elevated location, and a pipe handler coupled to the bridge and configured to move along the bridge. A catwalk system can include a guide rail, a portion of a bridge disposed over a horizontal storage area and coupled to the guide rail, with the bridge configured to move with the rig floor when the rig floor moves relative to the horizontal storage area, and a pipe handler coupled to the bridge and configured to move along the bridge.