Quick Release Die Block System for Top Drive Gripper

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current top drive gripper designs require frequent maintenance and are unsafe and inefficient, particularly in coupling the die block to the piston, and fail to adequately seal against drilling elements like mud, leading to corrosion and operational hazards.

Innovation Solution

A quick release die block system that allows for efficient removal of the die block without energizing the cylinder, featuring a lock mechanism accessible via a passage in the die block, which includes cam pins and lock pins to secure the die block to the piston, providing a sealed interface to prevent mud ingress and corrosion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If current mechanical coupling solutions are used to attach the die block to the piston, then the die block can be secured to the piston, but the coupling is unsafe and inefficient requiring frequent maintenance and multiple operators

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety of die block couplingVSAvoidefficiency of die block maintenance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a dynamic locking mechanism where a cam pin rotates to move lock pins between engaged and disengaged positions. This dynamic system allows the die block to be securely locked during operation and quickly released when needed, eliminating the need for frequent manual intervention and multiple operators while maintaining safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical coupling methods with a cam-based locking system actuated by a solenoid. This substitution eliminates the need for manual positioning and securing operations, automating the locking mechanism to improve both safety and operational efficiency while reducing maintenance frequency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of repair

If the die block is frequently removed for maintenance, then maintenance can be performed, but operational efficiency decreases and safety risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of die block for maintenanceVSAvoidoperational efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a pre-engineered locking mechanism with a solenoid actuator that prepares the die block for quick release. The cam pin and lock pins are positioned and configured in advance to enable rapid engagement and disengagement, allowing maintenance personnel to access the die block quickly without compromising operational efficiency or safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If the mechanical coupling is exposed to drilling elements like mud, then the coupling mechanism remains simple, but corrosion and damage occur requiring frequent replacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of coupling mechanismVSAvoidcorrosion from mud exposure

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a sealing arrangement that creates a protective barrier between the mechanical coupling components and the external drilling environment. This sealing film or shell prevents mud and other harmful elements from contacting the lock pins, cam pin, and solenoid, thereby preventing corrosion and damage while maintaining the simplicity of the coupling mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10508508B2Quick release die block system

Publication Date: 2019.12.17 NABORS DRILLING TECHNOLOGIES USA INC

AI summary

A quick release die block system for the gripper of a backup wrench is disclosed. The quick release die block system can include a die block releasably coupled to a die block support. A lock mechanism can include one or more lock pins moveably supported and can be operable with the die block and the die block support, The lock mechanism can also include a lock mechanism interface accessible via a passage in the die block, and can be adapted to releasably secure the die block to the die block support.