Tilting V-Shaped Roller Assembly for Pipe Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current roller assemblies for transporting and lateral shifting of pipe segments in the oil and gas industry require manual lifting and repeated crane operations, limiting efficiency due to space constraints and the need for sequential movement of pipe segments.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of V-shaped roller assemblies with a hinge as a pivot point, allowing for rotational tilting and lateral movement of pipe segments between adjacent roller assemblies, facilitated by hydraulic cylinders and motors, enabling automatic transfer and adjustment for varying pipe sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual lifting and sequential crane operations are used to laterally move pipe segments, then pipe segments can be transferred between roller assemblies, but the process is time-consuming and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe segment transfers between roller assemblies automatically through gravity when the roller frame tilts, eliminating the need for external cranes or manual lifting. The system uses its own structural movement (tilting) to accomplish the transfer function that previously required separate equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller frame is made dynamically tiltable between horizontal and inclined positions. This dynamic adjustment allows the roller to automatically discharge the pipe segment laterally onto an adjacent roller assembly without requiring fixed, static transfer mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If cranes are used for lateral movement of pipe segments, then transfer between roller assemblies is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral transfer function is merged into the roller assembly itself through the tiltable roller frame. Instead of being a separate operation requiring external cranes, the transfer capability is integrated directly into the roller's structural design, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller assembly serves multiple functions: it transports pipe segments longitudinally along the laybarge and also performs lateral transfers to adjacent roller assemblies. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated lateral transfer equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the roller assembly structure is fixed, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to varying pipe sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The roller frame's ability to tilt dynamically allows the system to adapt to different pipe segment sizes and weights. The tilting mechanism can be adjusted or designed to accommodate various dimensions, providing versatility without requiring completely different roller assemblies for different pipe sizes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the efficiency of pipe segment movement by eliminating the need for manual lifting and sequential crane operations, allowing for continuous lateral shifting and connection of pipe segments within the constrained space of laybarge and pipe spooling yards.
Implementation Method 1
A hydraulic cylinder can be used to tilt the V-shaped roller
Implementation Method 2
an electric or hydraulic motor can be used to drive or rotate the V-shaped roller such as through a chain and sprocket arrangement
Implementation Method 3
the V-shaped roller is tilted upward so that a pipe segment resting in the V-shaped roller can be rolled out of the V-shaped roller and into a second V-shaped roller
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
Roller assemblies for transporting and laterally shifting pipe section, or joints, on oil and gas exploration and production laybarges, drilling/production vessels and platforms, and pipe spooling yards are disclosed. The roller assemblies comprise rollers that are capable of being tilted to facilitate lateral shifting of the pipe sections or joints. The roller assemblies comprise a frame, a tilting assembly, a roller frame pivotally connected to the tilting assembly and the frame, and a roller rotatably connected to the roller frame by an axle. The tilting assembly lifts one end of the roller frame to tilt the roller.