Torque Measuring Pin With Strain Gauge Sensor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional top drives used for drilling wells lack accuracy in torque measurement, leading to inaccuracies in drilling operations.
Innovation Solution
A torque measuring device is integrated into the top drive, featuring a torque measuring pin with different diameters and a bidirectional strain gauge sensor, along with a controller to calibrate and detect torque strain, ensuring accurate torque measurement and compliance with preset limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a torque measuring device is integrated into the top drive, then torque measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical torque measurement mechanisms with a strain gauge sensor system that uses electrical resistance changes to measure torque. The strain gauges are bonded to a torque measuring pin, converting mechanical deformation into electrical signals that can be precisely measured and processed by a controller, thereby achieving high measurement precision while reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct mechanical force detection to electrical resistance measurement. By using strain gauges that convert mechanical strain into resistance changes, the system achieves more precise torque measurement through electrical parameter detection rather than mechanical means, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
2Reliability
If a torque measuring device with calibration capability is added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller receives signals from the strain gauge sensor, compares measured torque against preset limits, and provides feedback for calibration and monitoring. This feedback loop ensures reliable torque measurement by continuously verifying accuracy against known standards and adjusting measurements as needed, improving reliability through systematic verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque measuring device includes self-calibration capabilities where the system can automatically verify and adjust its own measurements using the torque measuring pin and sensor assembly. The device performs self-checks and calibration routines without requiring external intervention, maintaining reliability while managing complexity through automated self-verification processes.
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 torque measurement and detection, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of drilling operations by preventing operation beyond or below set torque limits, thus improving drilling efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A bidirectional strain gauge sensor can be connected to the torque measuring pin body for detecting measurable bending of the torque measuring pin body, which can be calibrated in torque
Implementation Method 2
The torque measuring pin body can have a first diameter, a second diameter, and a third diameter... for detecting forward and reverse bending of the torque measuring pin body
Data Source
AI summary
A torque measuring device for top drives, which includes plates mounted to a top drive. A torque measuring pin and a hinge pin can be engaged with the plates and a torque slide assembly. Bosses can be connected to the top drive, and can have the torque measuring pin engaged therethrough to restrain vertical and axial movement between the plates. A boss can be connected to the top drive and engaged with the torque measuring pin to bend the torque measuring pin when torque is applied to the top drive. One or more bosses can be connected to the top drive, and can have the hinge pin engaged therethrough to hinge the plates to the top drive. A strain gauge sensor can be engaged with the torque measuring pin. A controller can be in communication with the strain gauge sensor to receive signals therefrom.