Pipe Rack Elevation Adjustment for Automated Tubular Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual handling of tubular members in well drilling operations is inefficient and poses safety risks due to the reliance on manual systems like forklifts and lifting devices, which slow down processes and expose workers to hazards.
Innovation Solution
A pipe handling system comprising a moveable pipe rack with a rotatable arm that adjusts elevation to facilitate automated movement of pipes between storage and loading positions, leveraging gravity and mechanical actuators to enhance efficiency and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual systems like forklifts and lifting devices are used to handle tubular members, then workers can directly manipulate pipes, but the efficiency of the overall system decreases and safety concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The automated pipe handling system performs operations that would otherwise require manual labor. The robotic arm and pipe rack system automatically manipulate, transport, and position tubular members without human intervention, allowing the system to serve itself in handling tasks while maintaining high efficiency and safety standards
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling systems (forklifts, lifting devices operated by workers) with an automated mechanical system consisting of a robotic arm, pipe rack, and control mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for workers to manually handle heavy pipes while significantly improving operational efficiency
2Device complexity
If manual systems are used for pipe handling, then equipment complexity is reduced, but worker safety is compromised due to exposure to heavy loads
Solution Approach 1:
The automated pipe handling system acts as an intermediary between the storage area and the drilling rig. Instead of workers directly handling heavy tubular members, the robotic arm and pipe rack system serve as intermediate devices that manipulate and transport the pipes, thereby eliminating worker exposure to safety hazards while maintaining operational simplicity
3Productivity
If automated pipe handling systems are implemented, then productivity and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated pipe handling system is divided into distinct functional modules: a pipe rack for storage, a robotic arm for manipulation, a control system for coordination, and support structures. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while making the overall system more manageable and maintainable despite its automated 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
The system significantly enhances the efficiency of moving tubular members to and from drilling rigs, reducing manual labor and safety concerns while maintaining operational speed, thereby improving overall drilling processes.
Implementation Method 1
The pipe rack is moveable between a loading position where the loading end is positioned at a higher elevation than the storage end and an unloading position wherein the storage end is positioned at a higher elevation than the loading end
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe handling system comprises a pipe rack moveably coupled to a stationary frame. The pipe rack is configured to support a plurality of pipes between a loading end and a storage end. The pipe rack is moveable between a loading position where the loading end is positioned at a higher elevation than the storage end and an unloading position wherein the storage end is positioned at a higher elevation than the loading end. An arm is rotatably coupled to the loading end of the rack and is configured to engage a single pipe and move the single pipe onto or off of the pipe rack.