Torque Measuring Top Drive with Strain Gauge Load Cell
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional top drives used in drilling rigs face inaccuracies in load determination, necessitating a calibrated solution to improve measurement precision.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a strain gauge load cell with a torque measuring pin and hinge pin in the top drive system, coupled with a controller for real-time torque measurement and calibration, to enhance load measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional top drives are used for drilling wells, then the drilling operation can proceed, but inaccuracies occur in determining load on the top drive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical load determination methods with a strain gauge load cell that uses electrical resistance changes to measure torque and load. The strain gauge converts mechanical deformation into an electrical signal, providing more accurate and reliable measurements than traditional mechanical indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain gauge load cell acts as an intermediary element between the torque applying components and the measurement system. It transfers the mechanical torque through its body, and the strain gauge mounted on it converts this mechanical stress into measurable electrical signals, enabling precise load determination.
2Measurement precision
If a strain gauge load cell with torque measuring pin and hinge pin is integrated, then load measurement accuracy is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural component connecting the torque measuring pin to the top drive housing, provides torque measurement through strain gauges, and enables both torque and load determination. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate measurement devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the measurement parameter from direct mechanical observation to electrical signal measurement via strain gauges. This parameter change enables more precise measurement while using a compact sensor design that integrates into the existing structural components, minimizing the added complexity.
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 precise load measurement and calibration, reducing inaccuracies and improving operational reliability in drilling operations by continuously monitoring and adjusting torque within preset limits.
Implementation Method 1
a strain gauge load cell having two pins, a hinge pin and a torque measuring pin
Data Source
AI summary
A drilling rig with a top drive having a torque measuring load cell made from a strain gauged bending pin. When the unit torques up, the bending pin can be arranged to bend slightly in proportion to torque, and a strain gauge on the bending pin provides measurement that can be calibrated electronically in foot-lbs of torque.