Rotating Drill Bit Changer Arm for Safer Rig Tool Swaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drilling operations require manual intervention for drill bit changes, posing safety risks to operators and increasing downtime, especially in large-scale mining, and there is a lack of universal equipment for automatic bit replacement and guide bushing handling.
Innovation Solution
A universal device with a rotatable arm, drill bit storage, and clamp mechanism, controlled by a PLC, allows for semi-automatic drill bit and guide bushing changes, capable of handling different manufacturers' equipment, including retrofits, without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual intervention is used for drill bit changes, then operators can directly handle the tools, but safety risks increase and downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an automated drill bit changing device as an intermediary between the operator and the drilling tool. This device includes a gripper mechanism, positioning system, and torque breaking装置 that perform all hazardous operations automatically, eliminating direct operator exposure to uncontrolled moving parts and high-torque connections while maintaining full operational control.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill bit changing device is designed to perform self-positioning and self-alignment through automated sensors and actuators. The system automatically detects the drill bit status, positions the replacement bit, breaks torque, and secures the connection without requiring operator intervention, making the system serve itself during the critical changing operation.
2Ease of operation
If manual intervention is used for drill bit changes, then operators can control the process, but equipment downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated changing device enables continuous operation by eliminating the time-consuming manual steps of approaching the drill, positioning the bit, breaking torque, and securing connections. The system performs all these actions in rapid succession through pre-programmed automated sequences, reducing bit change time from minutes to seconds and maintaining continuous drilling productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning and alignment of replacement drill bits before they are needed. Bits are pre-loaded into the changing device and pre-positioned in optimal orientations, so that when a bit change is required, the replacement is already ready to be instantly installed, eliminating preparation time during the critical change moment.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If automated bit replacement is implemented, then operator safety improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drill bit changing device is designed as a universal system that can handle multiple drill bit types, sizes, and configurations through adjustable grippers and interchangeable components. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple specialized devices into a single unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive safety coverage for all drilling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated changing device employs a nested structure where compact components are integrated within each other - the gripper mechanism is housed within the positioning arm, which is nested within the main device body. This nesting approach minimizes the device's footprint and reduces the number of external components, simplifying installation and maintenance while providing full automated functionality.
4Loss of time
If automated bit replacement is implemented, then downtime is reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical manual operations with streamlined automated mechanisms. Instead of requiring manual torque breaking tools, positioning devices, and securing mechanisms, the automated system uses integrated electro-mechanical actuators and sensors that perform multiple functions simultaneously, reducing the total component count and manufacturing complexity despite the automation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for changing the drill bits, tricone bits or DTH bits of drill strings on a drilling platform is describe herein, the device comprising an arm element (1) moveable in a rotating, vertical or horizontal manner. A post or supporting element (5) is connected to one of the ends of arm (1) and it is connected to arm (1) in such a way that it moves the arm. Element (5) serves as a base for arm element (1) and includes a drive unit (6)) allowing arm (1) to retract and extend in a controlled manner. A drill bit storage and receiving element (3) is at the other end of the arm (1), and element (3) has a rotating surface, in addition to having a hydraulic motor (7) or other type of motor to move same.