Portable Torque Measurement System for Tubular Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying make-up torque to tubular members in oil and gas drilling are inefficient, lacking precision and safety, with conventional pipe tongs being heavy and difficult to control, and power tongs being large, expensive, and non-portable.
Innovation Solution
A portable torque measurement and notification system that includes a sensing device with sensors to measure torque, an electronic circuit for wireless data transmission, and a wireless device to communicate with the sensing device, providing real-time feedback on torque levels and target values, allowing for precise and safe torque application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional pipe tongs are used to apply make-up torque, then the tool can grip and rotate tubular members, but the tool becomes heavy and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical leverage system of conventional pipe tongs with a motorized drive system. The electric motor provides the rotational force needed to apply make-up torque, eliminating the need for heavy mechanical advantage structures and manual leverage operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable torque application device incorporates an integrated torque sensor that automatically measures and monitors the torque being applied during the make-up process. This self-measuring capability eliminates the need for separate torque measurement equipment and provides real-time feedback to the operator.
2Adaptability or versatility
If larger pipe tongs are used for larger diameter tubular members, then the gripping capability increases, but the tool size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device features adjustable and reconfigurable gripping mechanisms that can adapt to different tubular member sizes. The dynamic adjustment capability allows the same compact device to accommodate various diameters without requiring multiple fixed-size tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable torque application device is designed as a universal tool that can handle multiple tubular sizes and types. The integrated design combines driving, gripping, and torque measurement functions in a single device that can be configured for different applications.
3Extent of automation
If power tongs are used to apply make-up torque, then automated torque application is achieved, but the equipment becomes large, expensive, and non-portable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the torque application system into separate functional modules: a portable drive unit with motor and torque sensor, and a separate gripping mechanism. This segmentation allows the automated torque control functionality to be decoupled from the heavy mechanical structures of traditional power tongs.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates real-time torque measurement and feedback control. The torque sensor continuously monitors the applied torque and provides feedback to the control system, enabling automated torque application with precise control without the need for complex hydraulic systems.
4Force
If come-a-long is used to apply force to pipe tongs, then torque can be applied to joint, but precise control of make-up torque is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical come-a-long system with an electric motor-driven system that incorporates electronic torque measurement and control. This substitution enables precise digital measurement and control of the torque being applied, replacing the imprecise mechanical leverage approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated torque sensor provides real-time measurement feedback to the operator or control system, enabling precise control of the make-up torque. The feedback mechanism allows the operator to monitor and adjust the applied torque to match the manufacturer's specifications exactly.
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 precise and safe application of make-up torque, improving operational efficiency and reducing the risk of accidents by providing real-time feedback and notification of torque levels, and can be used in various environments without the need for large, expensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the sensing device including one or more sensors in communication with the first end and second end of the sensing device to produce load responsive measurements
Data Source
AI summary
A method for measuring torque measurement and generating a notifier, including searching for one or more wirelessly pairable load applying devices for applying a load to an object; displaying to a user those paired one or more load applying devices; responsive to selecting one of the displayed one or more load applying devices, receiving one or more of the group consisting of load measurements transmitted from the selected load applying device; and generating a notifier based on the proximity of the one or more of the group consisting of load measurements and torque measurements and a target value.