Quick-Release Gripping Insert Assembly for Coiled Tubing Injectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coiled tubing injector units require frequent replacement of gripping inserts due to damage, wear, or changes in tubing diameter, necessitating a quick and efficient replacement mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release gripping insert assembly featuring a tongue with cutouts to engage a shaft within a carrier block pocket, allowing for easy coupling and decoupling using a spring plunger for secure locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional gripping insert replacement methods are used, then the gripping insert can be replaced, but the replacement process is time-consuming and requires significant downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping insert is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently removed from the carrier block. The insert comprises a tongue with cutouts that engage with a shaft in the carrier block, allowing the insert to be segmented from the main assembly for quick replacement without affecting other components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates a spring plunger that provides dynamic locking and unlocking capabilities. The spring-loaded plunger automatically engages with the tongue to secure the insert during operation, and can be easily disengaged for replacement, enabling rapid transition between operational and replacement states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequent gripping insert replacement is required, then adaptability to different tubing sizes is achieved, but operational downtime and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier block is designed with a universal interface comprising a shaft with specific diameter portions and a pocket geometry that can accommodate multiple insert types. Different gripping inserts can be coupled to the same carrier block by aligning their tongues with the shaft, enabling one carrier block to serve multiple tubing size applications.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple gripping inserts for different tubing sizes can be pre-prepared and kept ready for replacement. The quick-release mechanism allows operators to have backup inserts available, and when replacement is needed, the process is already prepared and can be executed rapidly without extensive setup time.
3Reliability
If a secure coupling mechanism is used to hold the gripping insert, then reliability is improved, but the complexity of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring plunger automatically engages with the tongue features when the insert is inserted into the carrier block, providing self-securing functionality. The mechanism uses the insertion motion itself to compress the spring and trigger the locking action, eliminating the need for separate manual securing steps while maintaining reliable coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring plunger acts as an intermediary element between the tongue and the carrier block structure. It mediates the coupling by providing a controlled locking force that secures the insert during operation, while its spring mechanism allows for easy disengagement when replacement is needed, balancing security with simplicity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A coiled tubing injector unit insert assembly includes a gripping insert configured to be coupled to a carrier block, the insert comprising a tongue with a first cutout configured to engage a shaft extending within a carrier block pocket, the shaft having a first diameter portion and a second larger diameter portion and a junction between the two shaft diameters that is located within the carrier block pocket to couple the gripping insert to the carrier block.