Pullback Attachment for Rotary Drill Bits Without Bit Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Horizontal directional drilling operations require time-consuming processes to remove the rotary drill bit from the drill string for attaching a pullback device, necessitating additional tooling and prolonging the installation of products like cables or conduits.
Innovation Solution
A pullback device is designed to attach to a rotary drill bit without disassembling it from the drill string, utilizing a frame member, collar, and arms that engage with the drill bit's base and vanes to facilitate product installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the rotary drill bit is removed from the drill string to attach a pullback device, then the pullback device can be properly attached, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires additional tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates engagement features directly on the rotary drill bit during its design phase, allowing the pullback device to be attached without removing the drill bit. The engagement features (such as tabs, slots, or threaded interfaces) are pre-positioned on the drill bit body, enabling direct attachment of the pullback device at the drilling location, thus eliminating the time-consuming removal and reattachment process
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary drill bit is designed with dual functionality: it serves both as a cutting tool for drilling and as a mounting platform for the pullback device. The engagement features on the drill bit allow it to perform both drilling operations and facilitate subsequent pullback operations without requiring separate tooling or removal procedures
2Ease of operation
If the rotary drill bit is removed from the drill string to attach a pullback device, then the pullback device can be properly attached, but additional tooling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary drill bit is designed with dual functionality: it serves both as a cutting tool for drilling and as a mounting platform for the pullback device. The engagement features on the drill bit allow it to perform both drilling operations and facilitate subsequent pullback operations without requiring separate tooling or removal procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the drill bit and the pullback device mounting interface into a single integrated system. The engagement features are incorporated directly into the drill bit structure, combining the drilling function and the pullback attachment function into one component, thereby eliminating the need for additional specialized tooling
3Productivity
If engagement features are positioned within the cutting portion of the drill bit, then the pullback device can be attached without removing the drill bit, but the engagement features must be precisely positioned radially inward of the outer cutting diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement features are positioned in specific locations on the drill bit body, radially inward of the outer cutting diameter formed by the vanes. This local positioning allows the pullback device to attach to a stable portion of the drill bit without interfering with the cutting edges, while maintaining precise alignment for effective force transfer during pullback operations
Data Source
AI summary
A pullback device for connection with a rotary drill bit of a horizontal directional drill string. The pullback device includes an anchoring portion and a plurality of arms with ends configured to engage a plurality of corresponding engagement features of the rotary drill bit.