Top Drive Drag Chain Layout for Rotary Cable Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing top drives for subterranean operations face challenges in efficiently managing tubular manipulation due to limitations in rotational movement and communication between stationary and rotary portions, leading to interference and operational constraints.
Innovation Solution
A top drive system incorporating a drag chain assembly that manages excess cable length through a drag chain with varying circular paths, allowing the rotary portion to rotate freely relative to the stationary portion while maintaining communication via cables, and a rig controller for precise azimuthal orientation control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid cable connection is used between stationary and rotary portions, then structural strength is improved, but rotational freedom deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible cable with sufficient excess length to allow the rotary portion to rotate freely relative to the stationary portion while maintaining connection. The cable's flexibility and length enable rotational movement without restricting the rotary portion's azimuthal orientation capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If excess cable length is provided for rotational movement, then rotational freedom is improved, but cable management complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a drag chain as an intermediary component that manages the excess cable length. The drag chain contains and guides the cable, preventing tangling and simplifying cable management while allowing the rotary portion to rotate freely within defined limits.
3Ease of operation
If drag chain is added to manage cable length, then cable management is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The drag chain serves multiple functions: it manages excess cable length, guides cable movement, prevents tangling, and allows rotational movement. By combining these functions into a single component, the overall device complexity is minimized while achieving effective cable management.
4Productivity
If rotary portion can rotate freely, then operational efficiency is improved, but interference with stationary portion worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The drag chain acts as an intermediary that enables free rotation of the rotary portion while preventing interference with the stationary portion. It contains the cable and guides its movement, ensuring smooth rotational operation without tangling or obstruction.
Data Source
AI summary
A top drive that can include a stationary portion, a rotary portion rotationally coupled to the stationary portion, the rotary portion being configured to rotate about a center axis, a drag chain with a first end coupled to the stationary portion and a second end coupled to the rotary portion, a first circular path with a first radius relative to the center axis, and a second circular path with a second radius relative to the center axis, wherein the first radius is different from the second radius, wherein the drag chain comprises a first portion that is disposed along the first circular path and a second portion that is disposed along the second circular path, and wherein a length of the first portion along the first circular path increases or decreases as the rotary portion rotates relative to the stationary portion.