Tong Assembly Load Cell with Biasing Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load cells for tong assemblies used in oil and gas well construction are expensive due to complex manufacturing and assembly processes, necessitating a more cost-effective solution for accurately measuring torque in tubular connections.
Innovation Solution
A load cell design featuring a body with a chamber containing strain gauges, a first eye for pivotal coupling to the power tong, and a second eye with a biasing member for alignment with the backup tong, allowing for accurate torque measurement and alignment during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional load cells are used for torque measurement in tong assemblies, then measurement precision is maintained, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion with integrated strain gauges, eye portions for coupling, and a biasing member for alignment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled from standard parts, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining measurement precision through the strategic placement of strain gauges in the body portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the structural element that experiences torque-induced strain, houses the strain gauge sensors, and provides mounting points for the eye portions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining accurate torque measurement capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If conventional load cells with complex parts and machining are used, then measurement accuracy is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is designed using inexpensive, easily manufacturable materials and components. The body is made from cost-effective materials that can be produced through simple casting or machining processes, and the strain gauges are standard off-the-shelf components rather than custom-made sensors. This approach significantly reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining sufficient measurement accuracy for torque monitoring applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member is designed to automatically align the load cell with the backup tong during operation, eliminating the need for complex alignment mechanisms or manual adjustment procedures. This self-aligning feature reduces manufacturing complexity and cost by replacing what would otherwise require precision machining and assembly fixtures with a simple spring-loaded alignment system.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple load cell structure is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but alignment accuracy and measurement reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member functions as a counterbalancing element that automatically compensates for misalignment between the load cell and the backup tong. By applying a restoring force that pushes the load cell into proper alignment, the biasing member ensures reliable torque measurement without requiring complex alignment fixtures or precision machining, thus maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and measurement reliability.
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
The solution provides a cost-effective means to measure torque in tubular connections, ensuring the joint is neither too loose nor too tight, while the biasing member ensures proper alignment and accurate data collection, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a strain gauge disposed in the chamber
Implementation Method 2
A biasing member is disposed around the second eye for biasing the body relative to the tong assembly
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1D
AI summary
A load cell for use with a tong assembly includes a body; a chamber formed in the body; and a strain gauge disposed in the chamber. The load cell also includes a first eye for pivotal coupling to the tong assembly, and a second eye for pivotal coupling to the tong assembly. An optional biasing member is disposed around the second eye for biasing the body relative to the tong assembly.