Ratcheting Auger Brace Elevates Support Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for withdrawing auger sections during well drilling are cumbersome and unsafe, particularly due to the need for manual handling of a fork brace, which becomes difficult in muddy conditions, leading to inefficiencies and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A ratcheting auger bracing device with a support frame and pivotable braces that elevates above the ground, allowing for automated support and disconnection of auger sections without manual intervention, reducing mud accumulation and improving operational safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fork brace is used to support auger sections during withdrawal, then the auger sections can be supported and disconnected, but manual handling becomes difficult and unsafe in muddy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing device is designed to be self-positioning and self-supporting. The U-shaped brace automatically engages with the auger section when lowered, and the ratcheting mechanism automatically locks to prevent backward motion. The device supports itself through its own structural design rather than requiring continuous manual adjustment, allowing operation in muddy conditions without manual handling difficulties.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical handling of the fork brace is replaced with a gravity-assisted ratcheting system. The brace is lowered into position and automatically engages through gravitational force and the ratcheting mechanism, eliminating the need for manual positioning and adjustment in muddy conditions. The system transitions from manual mechanical operation to automated mechanical engagement.
2Productivity
If manual handling of fork brace is required, then brace can be positioned, but operational efficiency decreases due to frequent halts for mud clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The ratcheting bracing device maintains continuous support during auger withdrawal without requiring manual intervention for positioning or adjustment. The automatic engagement and locking mechanisms prevent the need to halt operations for mud clearance, allowing continuous productivity throughout the withdrawal process.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing device provides continuous support throughout the entire auger withdrawal process. Once positioned, the ratcheting mechanism maintains constant engagement without interruption, eliminating downtime for repositioning or mud clearance and enabling continuous productive operation.
3Device complexity
If a traditional fork brace is used, then simple structure is achieved, but safety hazards increase due to manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The ratcheting mechanism automatically engages and locks the brace in position, eliminating manual handling that creates safety hazards. The self-servicing nature of the automatic engagement reduces operator exposure to dangerous muddy conditions and potential pinching hazards while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratcheting mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator and the auger section. Instead of direct manual handling of the brace, the operator simply lowers the device and the ratcheting mechanism automatically engages, mediating the interaction and eliminating direct exposure to safety hazards while maintaining structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A ratcheting auger bracing device having a support frame with spaced-apart elongated side bars and first and second end bars connecting the side bars, and a pair of pivotable braces each having a proximal hinge end secured pivotally to and around the end bars of the support frame, a distal end bar, and a pair of opposed arms connecting the distal end bar to the proximal hinge end. The opposed arms are angled downwardly, acing the shaft of the auger section, to provide improved operation of the ratcheting auger bracing device in muddy operation conditions. An elevating frame provides an elevating base and legs that elevate the support frame and the hinged pair of pivotable braces at a distance above the ground level, and positions the hinged ends of the pivotable braces a distance above the ground level that avoids or prevents mud that may pool around the well hole.