Top Drive Hoist Subsystem Loop Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional top drive systems in wellbore operations face challenges with entanglement and premature failure of service loops due to varying diameters and environmental conditions, leading to operational inefficiencies and equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a drive subsystem and a hoist subsystem that are releasably connected, allowing independent movement within a derrick, with a loop system using rollers to keep service loops separate, eliminating the need for drag chains and reducing bending cycles, thus preventing entanglement and enhancing operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If service loops are used to connect the drive subsystem and hoist subsystem, then power and control signals can be transmitted, but the loops become entangled and fail prematurely due to varying diameters and environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the service loops from the movable connection between drive subsystem and hoist subsystem. By providing fixed service loops at the crown block and using wireless communication or fixed conduits, the system eliminates the entanglement problem caused by flexible loops that must bend and flex during tripping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary wireless communication system or fixed conduit structure to transmit power and control signals without requiring flexible service loops. This intermediary solution allows signal transmission while eliminating the mechanical entanglement issue.
2Productivity
If the drive subsystem and hoist subsystem are integrated, then space is saved, but the hoist subsystem cannot be used independently for tripping operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the top drive system into two independent subsystems: a drive subsystem for rotating the drill string and a hoist subsystem for lifting and tripping operations. These subsystems can be used independently or together, providing operational flexibility while maintaining separate functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic configuration where the drive subsystem can be positioned above the hoist subsystem during tripping operations, allowing the hoist to operate independently. The system adapts its configuration based on operational requirements, enabling both integrated and separate modes of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the drive subsystem is positioned above the hoist subsystem, then tripping operations can proceed without the drive interfering, but the drive subsystem occupies valuable derrick space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension of the derrick by positioning the drive subsystem above the hoist subsystem along the vertical axis. This vertical arrangement allows both subsystems to coexist in the limited derrick space while enabling independent operation during tripping sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for wellbore operations and methods for use, the wellbore having a wellbore support structure, the system including a hoist subsystem for moving tubulars, a drive subsystem for rotating the tubulars, the drive subsystem releasably connected to the hoist subsystem forming a hoist/drive unit, and powered apparatus for moving the hoist/drive unit, or for moving the hoist subsystem separately.