Threaded Tubular Coupling Quality Assessment From Torque-Turn Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing the quality of coupling between tubular components with threaded portions are inadequate, leading to a high probability of unsatisfactory assessments, particularly in high or low sampling scenarios, and often require human verification, which can be risky and slow down operations.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the comparison of a torque-turn curve obtained during coupling with reference curves in a database, using machine learning algorithms to assess the quality of the coupling by analyzing parameters such as curve shape, linearity, and torque variations, thereby reducing the need for human supervision and improving assessment accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional torque and turn measurement methods are used, then the assessment process is simple, but the reliability of coupling quality assessment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical assessment methods with acoustic emission detection technology. Acoustic sensors detect stress wave signals generated during threading, substituting mechanical measurement with acoustic field analysis to improve assessment reliability without significant system complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic emission signals as an intermediary parameter to assess coupling quality. The acoustic signals serve as a mediator between the mechanical coupling process and quality evaluation, enabling indirect but more reliable detection of coupling status
2Productivity
If human verification is performed, then the assessment can be adjusted, but the operational safety is compromised and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The assessment system performs self-evaluation through automated acoustic signal analysis. The system independently detects, processes, and evaluates coupling quality without human intervention, eliminating safety risks associated with personnel presence while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback through acoustic emission monitoring during the coupling process. The system continuously detects acoustic signals and provides immediate quality assessment feedback, enabling automated decision-making without human verification
3Measurement precision
If limited parameters are used for assessment, then the measurement process is fast, but the measurement precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of acoustic signal characteristics during the coupling process itself. By analyzing frequency, amplitude, and temporal patterns of acoustic emissions in real-time, the system achieves precise measurement without requiring additional time for post-processing
Data Source
AI summary
A method for coupling a first tubular component including a threaded portion with a second tubular component including a threaded portion, which includes: engaging the first tubular component on the second tubular component; rotating the first tubular component relative to the second tubular component in order to screw the threaded portions together; obtaining a set of points constituting a curve that represents the torque applied during the screwing of the first tubular component until an end position as a function of the number of turns performed by the first tubular component relative to the second tubular component; comparing parameters of the curve obtained with one or more reference curve(s) of a database in which each reference curve is associated with an assessment of the quality of the coupling; and assessing the quality of the coupling according to the step of comparing the curve.