Tubular Running Tool Link Tilt Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for assembling subterranean tubular strings are labor-intensive, dangerous, and inefficient, particularly when handling non-uniform tubulars, and existing tools often damage the tubulars during the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A tubular member running tool and elevator system with a link tilt assembly that uses actuators and rolling members to securely engage and rotate tubular members, allowing for safe and efficient assembly and disassembly with minimal human intervention, even for non-uniform tubulars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional manual methods with tongs are used to assemble tubular segments, then workers can directly engage and rotate segments to form tubular strings, but the process becomes labor-intensive, dangerous, and inefficient requiring multiple workers and scaffolding
Solution Approach 1:
The automated running tool performs the assembly operation autonomously without requiring multiple workers to manually handle the tubular segments. The tool self-positioning mechanism and automated engagement system eliminate the need for worker intervention in the critical handling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of workers using tongs with an automated mechanical system comprising a running tool with positioning mechanisms, engagement devices, and rotation capabilities. This substitution eliminates human labor in the assembly process while maintaining operational control.
2Extent of automation
If conventional running tool with power assist elevator is used to raise tubular segments, then automation is improved, but the tubular segments may be scarred by the elevator gripping dies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary support mechanism between the elevator gripping dies and the tubular segment surface. This intermediary element distributes the gripping forces and prevents direct contact that would cause scarring, thereby protecting the tubular segment while maintaining automated lifting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies protective measures beforehand by positioning the running tool to support the tubular segment weight before elevator engagement. This pre-positioning ensures that when the elevator grips the segment, the forces are distributed through the running tool structure rather than directly onto the tubular surface.
3Extent of automation
If conventional manipulator arm is used to handle tubular segments, then some automation is achieved, but single joint tubulars cannot be removed and laid down without worker involvement
Solution Approach 1:
The running tool is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple tubular configurations including single joint tubulars, multi-joint assemblies, and various diameters. The tool can perform removal, positioning, and laying down operations on different tubular types without requiring worker intervention, making it adaptable to diverse operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The running tool incorporates dynamic positioning and manipulation capabilities that allow it to adapt its configuration based on the specific tubular being handled. The system can adjust its mechanical advantages and engagement points to accommodate varying tubular lengths, weights, and configurations.
4Reliability
If existing tools are used to handle non-uniform tubulars with varying wall thickness or imperfect cylindricity, then the tools may fail to adequately engage the tubulars, but increasing engagement force may cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement system employs localized adaptive gripping mechanisms that can independently adjust to the specific geometry at each contact point with the tubular. This allows the tool to maintain reliable engagement with non-uniform tubulars by adapting to local variations in diameter and surface characteristics without applying excessive force that would cause damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The running tool incorporates adjustable engagement parameters including grip force, contact point positioning, and mechanical advantage ratios. These parameters can be dynamically modified based on the detected tubular characteristics, allowing the system to optimize engagement for each specific tubular while preventing damage through controlled force application.
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 system enables safe and efficient handling and assembly of tubular members, reducing labor costs and improving assembly speed while minimizing damage to the tubulars, and can apply significant torque for making and breaking connections.
Implementation Method 1
The rolling members are configured to engage an outer surface of the tubular member
Data Source
AI summary
A tubular member handling apparatus including a tubular member running tool, an elevator, first actuators each extending between the running tool and the elevator, and second actuators each extending between the running tool and a corresponding first actuator. The running tool includes a slotted member having a plurality of elongated slots, a recessed member slidably coupled to the slotted member and having a plurality of recesses, and a plurality of rolling members each retained between one of the recesses and one of the slots. Each rolling member partially extends through an adjacent slot when located in a shallow end of a corresponding recess, and retracts to within an outer perimeter of the slotted member when located in a deep end of the corresponding recess.