Portable Torque Sensor for Oilfield Pipe Tongs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 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 cumbersome and hazardous, and power tongs being expensive and non-portable.
Innovation Solution
A portable torque measurement and notification system that includes a lever arm with sensors and an electronic circuit to measure and transmit torque data wirelessly, providing real-time feedback to ensure accurate torque application and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional pipe tongs are used to apply make-up torque, then torque can be applied to tubular members, but the tools are heavy, cumbersome, and create dangerous situations for operators
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the torque application function into separate components: a portable torque applying device for applying torque and a separate sensor system for measurement. This segmentation allows the torque application mechanism to be lightweight while the measurement function is integrated independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical pipe tongs with a portable torque applying device that uses electronic sensors and wireless communication. The mechanical leverage system is substituted with electronic measurement and control, eliminating the need for heavy-duty mechanical structures.
2Force
If conventional pipe tongs are used to apply make-up torque, then torque can be applied to tubular members, but precision in achieving manufacturer's recommended torque is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor torque application and provide real-time feedback through wireless communication. This feedback mechanism allows operators to precisely control and verify that the manufacturer's recommended torque is achieved, eliminating the arbitrary determination used with conventional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
Conventional mechanical torque estimation methods are replaced with electronic sensor-based measurement systems that provide precise, objective torque data through wireless transmission, enabling accurate verification of torque specifications.
3Measurement precision
If power tongs are used to apply make-up torque, then precise torque measurement is possible, but the equipment is large, expensive, and non-portable
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the torque measurement function from the torque application device, using independent portable sensors that can be attached to various tools. This allows precise measurement capability to be combined with different torque applying devices, maintaining portability while achieving accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of torque measurement from fixed, heavy equipment to portable, battery-powered sensor systems with wireless communication. This parameter change enables the measurement system to be lightweight and adaptable while maintaining measurement precision through electronic sensing and digital transmission.
4Force
If conventional pipe tongs are used with come-a-long, then torque can be applied to tubular members, but control over the force exerted is difficult and may cause pipe tongs to fail
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to continuously monitor the force and torque being applied, providing real-time feedback to operators. This feedback enables precise control of the come-a-long device, preventing excessive force that could cause failure while ensuring sufficient torque is applied to meet specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows operators to pre-set target torque values and receive notifications when the target is approached or reached. This preliminary action capability enables operators to anticipate the optimal stopping point, preventing over-torquing and equipment failure while ensuring proper joint assembly.
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 equipment costs by providing real-time feedback and ensuring accurate torque measurements, even in challenging environments.
Implementation Method 1
one or more sensors disposed about the lever arm to produce one or more load responsive measurements of the lever arm during the application of the torque
Data Source
AI summary
A portable torque measurement and notification system, including a lever arm for adaptively engaging with a torque applying device, the lever arm including one or more sensors disposed about the lever arm to produce one or more load responsive measurements of the lever arm during the application of the torque; an electronic circuit disposed about the lever arm to receive the one or more load responsive measurements and to transmit 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 to power the one or more sensors and the electronic circuit; and a receiving device operable to communicate with the lever arm for receiving at least one of the group consisting of the one or more load responsive measurements and the one or more torque measurements, and to produce a notifier.