Portable Torque Sensor for Oilfield Tubular Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for applying make-up torque to tubular members in oil and gas drilling are inefficient and hazardous, as they lack precision and control, and existing tools are either cumbersome or expensive and non-portable.
Innovation Solution
A portable torque measurement and notification system that includes sensors, an electronic circuit, and a wireless device to measure and transmit torque data, providing real-time feedback to ensure accurate torque application and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional pipe tongs are used to apply make-up torque, then the tool is simple and portable, but the torque application is imprecise and lacks control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical torque measurement methods with electronic sensors and digital processing. Strain gage sensors and load cells convert mechanical torque into electrical signals that are processed by microprocessors, enabling precise measurement and digital display of torque values while maintaining portability through battery-powered portable torque meters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary devices between the torque applying tool and the tubular member. Torque sensors and transducers act as intermediaries to measure and transmit torque data, while portable torque meters serve as intermediary measurement devices that provide precise readings without requiring complex fixed installation infrastructure.
2Reliability
If come-a-long is used to apply force to pipe tongs, then the operator has manual control, but the torque control is arbitrary and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where torque sensors continuously monitor the applied torque and provide real-time readings to the operator through digital displays. The system can be integrated with control systems that provide feedback signals to automatically adjust the torque applying device, ensuring precise control and eliminating arbitrary torque application while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service torque control through automated torque meters and sensors that independently measure and display torque values without requiring operator interpretation or estimation. The system can automatically detect when target torque is reached and provide alerts, reducing the need for operator judgment while maintaining ease of operation.
3Force
If larger pipe tongs are used for larger diameter tubular members, then the torque capacity increases, but the tool weight and size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the torque measurement and control function from the torque applying tool. Portable torque meters and sensors are separated as independent measurement devices that can be used with various torque applying tools, allowing the use of lighter pipe tongs while maintaining precise torque measurement and control capabilities through separate electronic measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical torque measurement mechanisms with lightweight electronic sensors and digital processing systems. Electronic strain gages, load cells, and portable torque meters provide accurate torque measurement without the mechanical complexity and weight of traditional mechanical torque meters, enabling precise measurement with significantly reduced tool weight.
4Measurement precision
If power tongs with hydraulic monitoring are used, then the torque measurement is accurate, but the equipment is expensive and non-portable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the torque measurement system into portable, battery-powered torque meters that can be independently used with various torque applying tools. This separation allows accurate torque measurement to be achieved through portable electronic devices rather than requiring integration into large, fixed, or expensive hydraulic power tong systems, thereby achieving both accuracy and portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive hydraulic pressure monitoring systems with portable electronic torque sensors and digital measurement devices. Electronic strain gages, load cells, and microprocessor-based torque meters provide equivalent or superior measurement accuracy at lower cost and with full portability, eliminating the need for expensive hydraulic infrastructure while maintaining measurement precision.
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 enables precise and safe application of make-up torque, reducing operator risk and improving efficiency by providing real-time feedback and notification of target torque values, 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 portable torque measurement and notification system, including a sensing device having a first end adaptable to connect with a first torque applying device and a second end adaptable to connect with a second torque applying device, the sensing device including one or more sensors in communication with the sensing device to produce load responsive measurements of at least one of the first and second torque applying device; an electronic circuit to receive the one or more load responsive measurements and to transmit wirelessly at least one of the group consisting of the one or more load responsive measurements and one or more torque measurements; at least one power unit; and a wireless device operable to communicate with the sensing device and to produce a notifier based on at least one of the group consisting of the one or more load responsive measurements and one or more torque measurements.