Top Drive Coupling System With Pivoting Key Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional top drive systems require manual connection of supply lines, which is time-consuming and dangerous for rig personnel, and only allow for rotation in a single direction.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system for top drives and tools featuring a drive stem with a key that can pivot between extended and retracted positions, an adapter with a key recess, and an actuator to bias the key towards the extended position for secure coupling, enabling bidirectional torque transfer and connection of supply lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection of supply lines is used between top drives and tools, then connection can be made, but it is time-consuming and dangerous for rig personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-aligning and self-connecting functionality through the interaction between the drive stem's keyway and the adapter's key, allowing the connection to be made automatically without manual intervention for supply line connection
Solution Approach 2:
The key and keyway act as intermediary elements that facilitate the connection between the drive stem and adapter, enabling automated coupling and supply line connection while eliminating the need for manual intervention
2Adaptability or versatility
If threaded connection is used between top drives and tools, then connection can be made, but rotation is restricted to a single direction
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic splined connection that allows bidirectional rotation while maintaining torque transfer capability through the interaction of splines on the drive stem with corresponding splines in the adapter
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface is segmented into multiple splines distributed around the circumference of the drive stem and adapter, allowing rotation in both directions while maintaining structural integrity and torque transfer
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
Facilitates safer and faster connection of top drives to tools, allowing for bidirectional rotation and efficient transfer of power, data, and hydraulic/pneumatic supplies, reducing manual labor and enhancing operational safety.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to bias the key towards the extended position
Implementation Method 2
an actuator configured to pivot the key between an extended position and a retracted position
Data Source
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AI summary
In one embodiment, a coupling system for a top drive and a tool includes a drive stem (111) of the top drive configured to transfer torque to the tool, a key (112) disposed on the drive stem (111) and movable to an extended position, an adapter (120) of the tool configured to receive the drive stem (111), a key recess (122) disposed on the adapter and configured to receive the key (112) in the extended position, and a biasing member (112s) configured to bias the key towards the extended position.