U.S. patent application number 12/435259 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-05 for tubular grip interlock system.
This patent application is currently assigned to FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOLS, INC.. Invention is credited to Jeremy R. Angelle, Brian David Begnaud, Robert L. Thibodeaux.
Application Number | 20090272542 12/435259 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41256354 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090272542 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Begnaud; Brian David ; et
al. |
November 5, 2009 |
Tubular Grip Interlock System
Abstract
A tubular grip interlock system for ensuring that a tubular
string is gripped by at least one of a first tubular gripping
device and a second tubular gripping device includes a console
having a panel forming a track having a first leg and a second leg;
a first actuator operating the first tubular gripping device
between an open and a closed position; a second actuator operating
the second tubular gripping device between an open and a closed
position; and a single control device movable along the track, the
single control device operationally connected to the first actuator
and operationally disconnected from the second actuator when the
single control device is disposed along the first leg and wherein
the single control device is operationally disconnected from the
first actuator and operationally connected to the second actuator
when the single control device is disposed in the second leg.
Inventors: |
Begnaud; Brian David;
(Youngsville, LA) ; Thibodeaux; Robert L.;
(Lafayette, LA) ; Angelle; Jeremy R.; (Lafayette,
LA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Winstead PC (FCC-FKI);Henry L. Ehrlich
P.O. Box 50784
Dallas
TX
75201
US
|
Assignee: |
FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL
TOOLS, INC.
Lafayette
LA
|
Family ID: |
41256354 |
Appl. No.: |
12/435259 |
Filed: |
May 4, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61050208 |
May 3, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
166/380 ;
166/381; 166/77.53; 294/102.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 19/07 20130101;
E21B 19/16 20130101; E21B 19/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
166/380 ;
294/102.2; 166/77.53; 166/381 |
International
Class: |
E21B 19/10 20060101
E21B019/10; E21B 19/16 20060101 E21B019/16; E21B 19/07 20060101
E21B019/07 |
Claims
1. A tubular grip interlock system, the system comprising: a first
tubular gripping device operable between an open and a closed
position; a second tubular gripping device operable between an open
and a closed position; and an interlock gate preventing manual
operation of the first tubular gripping device and the second
tubular gripping device simultaneously.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the interlock gate comprises: a
track defining a first leg and a second leg; and a single interlock
device operationally connected to the first tubular gripping device
and the second tubular gripping device, the single interlock device
moveable along the track; wherein movement of the single interlock
device along the first leg operates the first tubular gripping
device between its open and closed position and wherein movement of
the single interlock device along the second leg operates the
second tubular gripping device between its open and closed
position.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the track comprises a cross-over
leg separating the first and the second leg, wherein when the
single interlock device is disposed at the cross-over leg the first
tubular gripping device and the second tubular gripping device are
in the closed position.
4. The system of claim 1, comprising: a first valve operating the
first tubular gripping device; a second valve operating the second
tubular gripping device; a first actuator operationally connected
to the first valve, the first actuator moveable along an
operational path between the open position and the closed position
of the first tubular gripping device; and a second actuator
operationally connected to the second valve, the second actuator
moveable along an operational path between the open and the closed
position of the second tubular gripping device.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the interlock gate comprises a
single interlock device that is selectively connectable to the
first actuator and the second actuator.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises: a first
valve operating the first tubular gripping device; a second valve
operating the second tubular gripping device; a track having a
first leg and a second leg; and a single interlock device moveable
along the track, wherein the interlock device is operationally
connected to the first valve and operationally disconnected from
the second valve when the single interlock device is in the first
leg and the interlock device is operationally disconnected from the
first valve and operationally connected to the second valve when
the interlock device is in the second leg.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein the track further comprises a
cross-over leg, wherein the first tubular gripping device and the
second tubular gripping device are actuated to their respective
closed positions when the interlock control device is disposed
along the cross-over leg.
8. The system of claim 6, wherein the interlock gate further
comprises a member selectively positioned to block movement of the
interlock device along the track.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the member is actuated to a
position in the track in response to a tubular grip assurance
signal.
10. The system of claim 6, further comprising: a first actuator
operationally connected to the first valve, the first actuator
moveable along an operational path between the open position and
the closed position of the first tubular gripping device; and a
second actuator operationally connected to the second valve, the
second actuator moveable along an operational path between the open
and the closed position of the second tubular gripping device.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first leg and the second
leg are positioned inside of the operational paths of the
respective first actuator and the second actuator; and the single
interlock device is operationally connected to the first valve via
the first actuator and the single interlock device is operationally
connected to the second valve via the second actuator.
12. The system of claim 10, wherein the interlock gate further
comprises a member selectively positioned to block movement of the
interlock device between a closed position and an open
position.
13. A tubular grip interlock system for ensuring that a tubular
string is gripped by at least one of a first tubular gripping
device and a second tubular gripping device, the system comprising:
a console having a panel providing a track having a first leg and a
second leg; a first actuator operating the first tubular gripping
device between an open and a closed position; a second actuator
operating the second tubular gripping device between an open and a
closed position; and a single control device movable along the
track, the single control device operationally connected to the
first actuator and operationally disconnected from the second
actuator when the single control device is disposed along the first
leg and wherein the single control device is operationally
disconnected from the first actuator and operationally connected to
the second actuator when the single control device is disposed in
the second leg.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first actuator comprises
one selected from a lever, a button, or an electric switch; and the
second actuator comprises one selected from a lever, a button, or
an electric switch.
15. The system of claim 13, further comprising: a first control
valve operationally connecting the first actuator to the first
tubular gripping device; and a second control valve operationally
connecting the second actuator to the second tubular gripping
device.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first actuator comprises
one selected from a lever, a button, or an electric switch; and the
second actuator comprises one selected from a lever, a button, or
an electric switch.
17. The system of claim 13, further comprising a member selectively
actuated to a blocking position relative to the track, wherein the
single control device is blocked from passing the member in the
blocking position.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the member is operationally
connected to a tubular grip assurance system, the member removed
from the blocking position in response to a signal from the tubular
grip assurance system.
19. The system of claim 13, wherein the track includes cross-over
leg, wherein the first tubular gripping device and the second
tubular gripping device are in the closed positioned when the
single control device disposed in the cross-over leg.
20. A method for running tubular strings, the method comprising the
steps of: providing a first tubular gripping device operable
between an open and a closed position and a second tubular gripping
device operable between an open and a closed position; providing a
single control device to actuate the first and the second tubular
gripping devices from a control console, the single control device
moveable along a track comprising a first leg and a second leg;
moving the single control device along the first leg to actuate the
first tubular gripping device between the open and the closed
position when the second tubular gripping device is in the closed
position; and moving the single control device along the second leg
to actuate the second tubular gripping device between the open and
closed position when the first tubular gripping device is in the
closed position.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the single control device is
operationally connected to the first tubular gripping device and
operationally disconnected from the second tubular gripping device
when the single control device is in the first leg.
22. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of blocking
movement of the single control device to operate the first tubular
gripping device to the open position in response to the second
tubular gripping device being in the closed position.
23. A method for maintaining a grip on a tubular string in wellbore
tubular running operations with at least one of a first or a second
tubular gripping device, the method comprising the steps of:
providing a first valve operating the first tubular gripping device
between an open and a closed position and a second valve operating
the second tubular gripping device between an open and a closed
position; actuating the first valve and the second valve with a
single interlock device; and preventing simultaneous operational
connection of the single interlock device to the first valve and
the second valve.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising the step of
requiring actuation of the first valve to the closed position
before disconnecting the single interlock device from the first
valve.
25. The method of claim 24, further comprising the step of limiting
movement of the single interlock device in response to one of the
first tubular gripping member or the second tubular gripping member
being in the open position.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/050,208, filed May 3, 2008.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The invention relates in general to running tubulars into
and pulling tubulars out of a wellbore and more particularly to an
interlock for assembling and disassembling tubular strings.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Strings of interconnected tubulars are inserted into and
pulled from wellbores at various times and for various purposes.
For example, tubulars strings are assembled and run into the well
for drilling the wellbore, running casing to line the wellbore, and
to position tools in the wellbore. Tubulars include all tubular
members which are referred to under different terms, such as and
without limitation, casing, liner, drill pipe, and tubing, based on
the intended use and/or diameter of the tubular.
[0004] A drilling rig is employed to assemble the tubular string
for insertion into the wellbore and to dissemble the tubular string
as it is pulled from the wellbore. The drilling rig employs a pair
of cooperative tubular gripping devices to support the tubular
string and to assemble and disassemble the tubular string. One
tubular gripping device can travel longitudinally relative to the
rig floor and is commonly referred to as an elevator or casing
running tool. The other tubular gripping device is commonly
referred to as a spider and can be maintained in a substantially
stationary position at the rig floor.
[0005] Generally, the spider grips and supports the portion of the
tubular string that extends into the wellbore. The elevator, during
assembly, engages an add-on tubular joint and aligns it over the
tubular (e.g., tubular string) that is held by the spider. The
add-on tubular is then connected to the suspended tubular string.
The tubulars may be made-up by various tools including power tongs,
spinners, and top drives. The elevator may be utilized in some
applications for rotating the tubular for assembly and disassembly.
Once the tubulars are interconnected to assemble a tubular string,
the spider disengages the tubular string and the elevator lowers
the tubular string through the spider to a desired position. The
spider then re-engages the tubular string and the elevator
disengages the string. The sequence may be reversed when pulling
the tubular string from the wellbore and disassembling the tubular
string.
[0006] Often the elevator and the spider are operated by remote
control from a common location by an operator. A lever-operated
valve actuates the spider between the engaged or closed position
and the disengaged or open position. A second lever-operated valve
actuates the elevator between the engaged and disengaged position.
The elevator and spider work in tandem to maintain a constant grip
on the tubular string by at least one of the tubular gripping
devices. The failure to maintain a grip on the tubular string by
one of the tubular gripping devices may result in the release of
the string into the wellbore. The failure to maintain engagement
with the tubular string can occur in many different ways. One
example of a failure occurs when a tubular gripping device does not
obtain a sufficient grip on the tubular string. Another common
failure simply occurs when both tubular gripping devices are
inadvertently disengaged at the same time. This can happen for
various reasons such as when an operator actuates one tubular
gripping device to open (e.g., disengage) before the fluidic (e.g.,
hydraulic, pneumatic) system has had sufficient time to actuate the
other tubular gripping device to the closed (e.g., engaged)
position. This can also occur due to the mistiming of actuation
steps, wherein an operator begins operating one valve from the
closed to the open position while still operating the other valve
from the open to the closed position resulting in both valves being
in the open position.
[0007] Interlock systems such as the grip assurance systems
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,791,410 and 4,676,312 have been
provided to ensure that one tubular gripping device is engaged with
the tubular string before the other tubular gripping device is
disengaged from the tubular string and or that a sufficient grip is
obtained by the engaging device. However, there continues to be a
need for interlock systems that can be utilized singularly or in
combination with other tubular grip assurance systems.
SUMMARY
[0008] One embodiment of a tubular grip interlock system includes a
first tubular gripping device operable between an open and a closed
position; a second tubular gripping device operable between an open
and a closed position; and an interlock gate preventing manual
operation of the first tubular gripping device and the second
tubular gripping device simultaneously.
[0009] The interlock gate may include a track defining a first leg
and a second leg, and a single interlock device operationally
connected to the first tubular gripping device and the second
tubular gripping device. The single interlock device may be
moveable along the track; wherein movement of the single interlock
device along the first leg operates the first tubular gripping
device between its open and closed position and wherein movement of
the single interlock device along the second leg operates the
second tubular gripping device between its open and closed
position. The track may include a cross-over leg separating the
first and the second leg, wherein when the single interlock device
is disposed at the cross-over leg the first tubular gripping device
and the second tubular gripping device are in the closed
position.
[0010] The system may include a first valve operating the first
tubular gripping device; a second valve operating the second
tubular gripping device; a first actuator operationally connected
to the first valve, the first actuator moveable along an
operational path between the open position and the closed position
of the first tubular gripping device; and a second actuator
operationally connected to the second valve, the second actuator
moveable along an operational path between the open and the closed
position of the second tubular gripping device. The system may
include a single interlock device that is selectively connectable
to the first actuator and the second actuator.
[0011] The interlock system may include a first valve operating the
first tubular gripping device; a second valve operating the second
tubular gripping device; a track having a first leg and a second
leg; and a single interlock device moveable along the track,
wherein the interlock device is operationally connected to the
first valve and operationally disconnected from the second valve
when the single interlock device is in the first leg and the
interlock device is operationally disconnected from the first valve
and operationally connected to the second valve when the interlock
device is in the second leg. The track may include a cross-over
leg, wherein the first tubular gripping device and the second
tubular gripping device are actuated to their respective closed
positions when the interlock control device is disposed along the
cross-over leg. The interlock gate may include a member selectively
positioned to block movement of the interlock device along the
track. The member may be actuated to a position in the track in
response to a tubular grip assurance signal.
[0012] It is noted that the actuation of a tubular gripping device
to a position may not occur simultaneous with the operation of the
respective valve or actuator to such position. For example, a first
valve may operate a first tubular gripping device. A time lag may
exist between operation of the first valve from the open to the
closed position and the actuation of the first tubular gripping
device from the open to the closed position. Therefore an
operational position of a valve or actuator may not correspond to
the actual position of the associated tubular gripping device and
the tubular string.
[0013] One embodiment of a tubular grip interlock system for
ensuring that a tubular string is gripped by at least one of a
first tubular gripping device and a second tubular gripping device
includes a console having a panel forming a track having a first
leg and a second leg; a first actuator operating the first tubular
gripping device between an open and a closed position; a second
actuator operating the second tubular gripping device between an
open and a closed position; and a single control device movable
along the track, the single control device operationally connected
to the first actuator and operationally disconnected from the
second actuator when the single control device is disposed along
the first leg and wherein the single control device is
operationally disconnected from the first actuator and
operationally connected to the second actuator when the single
control device is disposed in the second leg.
[0014] The first actuator may be, for example and without
limitation, a lever, button or switch, e.g., electric or fluidic.
Similarly, the second actuator may be, for example and without
limitation, a lever, button or switch, e.g., electric or fluidic. A
first control valve may operationally connect the first actuator to
the first tubular gripping device. A second control valve may
operationally connect the second control valve to the second
tubular gripping device.
[0015] One embodiment of a method for running tubular strings
includes the steps of providing a first tubular gripping device
operable between an open and a closed position and a second tubular
gripping device operable between an open and a closed position;
providing a single control device to actuate the first and the
second tubular gripping devices from a control console, the single
control device moveable along a track having a first leg and a
second leg; moving the single control device along the first leg to
actuate the first tubular gripping device between the open and the
closed position when the second tubular gripping device is in the
closed position; and moving the single control device along the
second leg to actuate the second tubular gripping device between
the open and the closed position when the first tubular gripping
device is in the closed position. In one embodiment, the single
control device is operationally connected to the first tubular
gripping device and operationally disconnected from the second
tubular gripping device when the single control device is disposed
in the first leg. In some embodiments the first tubular gripping
device is in the closed position when the second tubular gripping
device is in the open position and similarly, the second tubular
gripping device is in the closed position when the first tubular
gripping device is in the open position. The first and the second
tubular gripping devices may be in the closed position
simultaneously. The method may include the step of blocking
movement of the single control device to operate the first tubular
gripping device to the open position in response to the second
tubular being in the open position.
[0016] An embodiment of a method for maintaining a grip on a
tubular string in a wellbore tubular running operations with at
least one of a first or a second tubular gripping device includes
the steps of providing a first valve operating the first tubular
gripping device between an open and a closed position and a second
valve operating the second tubular gripping device between an open
and a closed position; actuating the first valve and the second
valve with a single interlock device; and preventing simultaneous
operational connection of the single interlock device to the first
valve and the second valve.
[0017] The method may include the step of requiring actuation of
the first valve to the closed position before disconnecting the
single interlock device from the first valve. The method may
include the step of limiting movement of the single interlock
device in response to one of the first tubular gripping member or
the second tubular gripping member being in the open position.
[0018] The foregoing has outlined some of the features and
technical advantages of the invention in order that the detailed
description of the invention that follows may be better understood.
Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The foregoing and other features and aspects of the
invention will be best understood with reference to the following
detailed description of a specific embodiment of the invention,
when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0020] FIG. 1 is a conceptual illustration of an embodiment of an
interlock control system of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above a control console
illustrating an interlock gate system in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view from below the panel of the
console of FIG. 2;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a perspective, top view of another embodiment of
an interlock gate system;
[0024] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an embodiment of an
operational connecting system of the interlock gate system
illustrated in FIG. 4;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a top view of control panel illustrating another
embodiment of an interlock gate system of the invention;
[0026] FIGS. 7A-7J illustrate another embodiment of interlock gate
system in various operational positions; and
[0027] FIG. 8 is a top view of control panel illustrating another
embodiment of an interlock gate system of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Refer now to the drawings wherein depicted elements are not
necessarily shown to scale and wherein like or similar elements are
designated by the same reference numeral through the several
views.
[0029] Refer now to FIG. 1 wherein a conceptual illustration of an
embodiment of an interlock control system, generally denoted by the
numeral 10, is provided. System 10 includes a pair of tubular
gripping device 12 and 14. Tubular gripping devices 12 and 14 can
be utilized in conjunction during the assembly and disassembly of a
tubular string 16. Tubular gripping device 12 is shown in the open
position, wherein slips 12a are disengaged from gripping add-on
tubular 16a which is threadedly connected to tubular joint 16b to
form a tubular string 16. Tubular gripping device 14 is shown in
the closed or engaged position, wherein slips 14a are engaged and
gripping tubular 16. "Tubular" may be referred to from time to time
herein as casing for the purposes of description, however it is
recognized that other tubular elements such as, drill pipe, tubing,
liners may be utilized and are incorporated into the meaning of
casing.
[0030] FIG. 1 is provided for purposes of describing an embodiment
of a system of the invention and is not meant to be limiting. For
example, tubular gripping devices 12 and 14 are both shown as
external tubular gripping devices, wherein the gripping elements
contact and grip the exterior of the tubular. However, the tubular
gripping device may be any tubular gripping and/or tubular running
tool including an internal tubular gripping device, such as without
limitation a gripping head adapted to be positioned inside of the
tubular and engaging the tubular along its inside diameter.
[0031] As used herein, "elevator" or "elevator slips" means an
apparatus or mechanism that is arranged to grip and hold a tubular
for the purpose of raising or lowering the tubular. Examples of
elevators include external slip devices, such as illustrated in
FIG. 1, as well as internal tubular gripping devices, such as
gripping heads that are often used with top drive systems. The
elevator may further be adapted for applying torque or rotation for
example to connect or disconnect tubular joints and for the purpose
of drilling. "Spider" or "spider slips" refer to a device for
gripping a tubular while the tubular gripping device remains
substantially stationary. Often the spider is supported by the rig
floor or deck.
[0032] Elevator 12 and spider 14 are controlled between their open
and closed position via pressurized fluid (e.g., gas, liquid). For
purposes of description "open" is used herein to mean that the
tubular gripping device is actuated to a position disengaged from
and not gripping the tubular. "Closed" is used herein to mean that
the tubular gripping device is operated so as to be engaging and
gripping the tubular. These terms apply to both external and
internal tubular gripping devices.
[0033] The flow of pressurized fluid to elevator 12 may be
controlled by an elevator control valve 18. Similarly, spider 14
may be operated between the open and closed position by a spider
control valve 20. Control valves 18 and 20 may be referred to
herein from time-to-time as a directional control valve. For
example, in FIG. 1, control valves 18, 20 are illustrated as
four-way directional valves. Control valve 18 may be one of various
types of valves, such as without limitation a pneumatic solenoid,
hydraulic solenoid, or electric solenoid.
[0034] A grip assurance interlock type system, generally denoted by
22, may be interconnected between the elevator operating system 2
and the spider operating system 3. Grip assurance interlock system
22 may be one of various types of interlock systems such as, and
without limitation, the grip assurance interlock systems disclosed
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,791,410 and 4,676,312, which are incorporated
herein by reference. Grip assurance interlock system 22 may be
utilized in combination with, or independent of, the interlock gate
system disclosed herein.
[0035] Depicted elevator control valve 18 and spider control valve
20 are manually operated and positioned at a common location 24,
generally referred to herein as a control console, identified by
the dashed lines. An interlock gate system 26 can be operationally
connected to the elevator system 2 and the spider system 3 to avoid
the inadvertent release of the tubular string. Examples of
interlock gate system 26 are described further with reference to
FIGS. 2-6.
[0036] Refer now to FIG. 2 wherein an embodiment of an interlock
gate system 26 is illustrated. Interlock gate system 26 includes
elevator control valve 18, spider control valve 20, a single
interlock control device 28 (e.g., knob, lever, etc.), and a track
30 (e.g., gate, indexed path). T rack 30 is a path of travel
between operational positions of interlock control device 28 and
may be a feature formed by a deck, or panel 32 which is shown as
transparent in FIG. 2 for purposes of describing and illustration
various features of interlock gate system 26. Positioned behind
panel 32, relative to the operator, are control valves 18 and 20.
Each control valve 18, 20, may have a valve actuation device 18a,
20a respectively for manually operating the respective valves
between the open and closed position. The range and/or direction of
movement of the respective actuation device may be referred to as
the operational path of the actuation device. In the embodiments of
FIGS. 2-6, valve actuation devices 18a, 20a are illustrated and
described as levers, but may include without limitation levers,
buttons, and electric switches including contact switches. In FIGS.
7A-7J, valve actuation devices 18a, 20a are illustrated as buttons
or push rods. In FIG. 8, FIG. 8 actuation devices 18a, 20a are
illustrated as levers or rods and are also described with reference
to electric solenoids for example that may include switches
positioned for example at positions 36a, 38a and 37. Further as
understood, the functions of the two control valves may be provided
in some embodiments by a single valve.
[0037] Valve actuation devices 18a and 20a may be positioned above,
on, or below panel 32. In some embodiments, a view way, or slot, 34
may be formed by panel 32 adjacent to each valve actuation device
18a, 20a. View way 34 may be an open slot formed through panel 32
or may be an elongated window, having a transparent material for
example, so that the respective actuation device may be visually
seen. View way 34 may extend proximate the length of travel of the
associated actuation device 18a, 20a between the open and closed
positions (e.g., operational path). In some embodiments the end of
the actuation device may terminate in view way 34 (e.g., a slot) to
limit the range of travel of the actuation device to the slot
dimensions. In other embodiments view way 34 may be provided to
visually confirm the position of the valve actuation device. View
ways 34 may be particularly suited for embodiments of interlock
gate system 26 that are employed to retrofit a conventional
two-valve control console.
[0038] In some embodiments, track 30 is formed through panel 32 and
interlock control device 28 is disposed through the track. In some
embodiments, track 30 may be positioned between spaced apart
control valves 18 and 20 as illustrated in the embodiments of FIGS.
2-7J. Control track 30 may include a first operational leg 36, a
second operational leg 38, and a cross-over leg 40. Operational
legs 36, 38 are functionally spaced apart by cross-over leg 40. In
the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 2-7J, operationally legs 36,
38 are laterally spaced apart. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3,
track 30 resembles a block letter type U-shaped path. However, it
is understood that track 30 (e.g., gate) may be formed in various
patterns. For example, and without limitation, a U-shaped gate
(FIG. 2 and FIG. 8), an H-shaped gate, an L-shaped gate and some
embodiments may include additional legs forming for example an
E-shaped gate, W-shaped gate, Y-shaped gate, a straight line gate
and the like. Track 30 may be substantially linear in some
embodiments, for example, the linear track having a first
operational leg separated from the second operational leg by the
intervening cross-over leg. The cross-over leg may be an elongated
section or a point. In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 2-7J,
operational legs 36, 38 are depicted substantially as having the
same length and positioned substantially parallel to and aligned
with one another. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4,
operational legs 36 and 38 are positioned inside of opposing view
ways 34 or the respective actuation devices 18a, 20a. In the
embodiment of FIG. 8, operational leg 36 and operational leg 38 are
operationally separated by closed position 37.
[0039] In some embodiments, operational legs 36, 38 are lateral
spaced apart from one another by cross-over leg 40, however, it is
noted that operational legs 36, 38 may be or may not be oriented
parallel to one another. It is noted that parallel and similar
terms are utilized herein for purposes of description of the
general alignment of various features and include positions that
may be similar to the utilized term. For example, unless otherwise
physically required, parallel may include an alignment of the
features such that the projected paths of the features may
intersect at some distance.
[0040] Interlock control device 28 is expressly illustrated as a
lever extending through a slot type control track 30 in FIGS. 2-7J
and as a knob in FIG. 8. Interlock control device 28 is
operationally connected to the first and second tubular gripping
devices 12, 14 such that only one tubular gripping device 12, 14
may be actuated to the open position at the same time.
[0041] In some embodiments, interlock control device 28 is
operationally connectable to control valves 18 and 20 in a manner
such that when one valve is operable from the closed to the open
position by interlock control device 28 the other control valve is
operationally disconnected from interlock control device 28. The
operational and functional connection of interlock control device
28 with control valves 18 and 20 is described further below.
[0042] Each operational leg 36, 38 is associated with one of the
tubular gripping devices and defines a path between an open and
closed position of the respective tubular gripping device. For
example, in FIG. 2, operational leg 36 is associated with control
valve 20 and tubular gripping device 14 and operation leg 38 is
associated with control valve 18 and tubular gripping device 12.
The first ends 36a, 38a represent one operational position of
control valves 18, 20 and the second ends 36b, 38b represent the
other operational position of control valves 18, 20. In this
embodiment, first ends 36a, 38a are associated with the respective
closed position of control valves 18, 20 and the respective tubular
gripping devices 12, 14 and the second end 36b, 38b are associated
with the respective open position of control valves 18, 20 and the
respective tubular gripping device 12, 14. In the illustrated
embodiments, cross-over leg 40 interconnects the closed positions
or points 36a and 38a or the respective tubular gripping devices
12, 14. Thus, a first control valve must be operated to the closed
position before interlock control device 28 can operate the other
control valve from the closed position to the open position.
[0043] Refer now to FIG. 3 wherein interlock gate system 26 of FIG.
2 is illustrated from below panel 32. Interlock control device 28
is functionally positioned so as to be moveable along the length of
track 30 and to selectively connect with actuation devices 18a and
20a. Interlock control device 28 is functionally supported by a
bracket 44 connected to console 24. Interlock control device 28 is
moveably connected to bracket 44 by a linkage 46 and U-Joint 48.
U-Joint 48 facilitates movement of interlock control device 28
along track 30 but may not allow interlock control device 28 to
rotate. Single interlock control device 28 and panel 32 with track
30 may be operationally connected at console 24 with control valves
18 and 20 to replace a two-lever tubular gripping system
control.
[0044] Interlock control device 28 is selectively connectable to
control valve 18, via valve actuation device 18a, and to control
valve 20, via actuation device 20a, through an operational
connector 42 in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2-5. In the
embodiment of FIGS. 2,3 and 5, connector 42 is illustrated having
opposing open ended slots 50a, 50b each adapted to engage a
respective control valve actuation device 18a or 20a. In FIG. 3,
control valve actuation device 20a is shown frictionally held in
slot 50b, operationally connecting interlock control device 28 and
control valve 20.
[0045] Operation of interlock system 10 is now briefly described
with reference to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. For
operation of spider 14, the single interlock control device 28 is
operationally connected to valve actuation device 20a of control
valve 20. In this embodiment, interlock control device 28 and valve
actuation device 20a are interconnected via operational connector
42. Interlock control valve 28 may then be positioned at first end
36a of operational leg 36 of track 30 wherein control valve 20
actuates spider 14 to the closed position. Interlock control device
28 may then be moved along operational leg 36 to the open position
at end 36b actuating spider 14 to the open position via control
valve 20. When it is desired to operate elevator 12 to the open
position, the operator first moves interlock control device 28,
which is currently operationally connected to spider 14, to the
closed position (point 36a) for spider 14. Once positioned at
closed point 36a, interlock control device 28 may be moved
laterally across cross-over 40 to first end 38a of leg 38, which is
the operational closed position of elevator 12 in this embodiment.
When interlock control device 28 is positioned at closed position
36a, control valve actuation device 20a is restricted from moving
perpendicular to operational leg 36. In other words, actuation
device 20a cannot be moved with interlock control device 28 along
cross-over 40. Thus, when interlock control device 28 is moved from
position 36a to position 38a, along cross-over 40 in this
embodiment, it is disconnected from valve actuation device 20a
before connecting with the valve actuation device 18a proximate to
end 38a. Elevator 12 may be operated as described with reference to
spider 14. It is noted that although actuation devices 18a, 20a are
illustrated as levers in FIGS. 1-3, other actuation devices may be
utilized, such as and without limitation to push rods and button
and the like.
[0046] Refer now to FIG. 4 wherein another embodiment of an
interlock gate system 26 is provided. An additional position is
provided in this embodiment of interlock gate system 26 relative to
the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. Control track 30
includes a neutral leg 52, forming a substantially block letter,
Y-shaped gate for interlock control device 28. Neutral leg 52 is
shown extending from cross-over 40 in the opposite direction taken
by operational legs 36 and 38. When interlock control device 28 is
positioned in neutral leg 52 it is not physically connected to
either valve actuation device 18a or valve actuation device 20a.
Interlock control device 28 may be held or locked in a neutral or
safety position 54 in some embodiments as described further with
reference to FIG. 5. In some embodiments, neutral leg 52 may extend
from cross-over 40 in the same direction as legs 36 and 38, such as
in an E-shaped or W-shaped configuration. Neutral leg 52 may be
provided for example as a position to pre-power one or both of the
fluid systems for tubular gripping systems 2, 3.
[0047] FIG. 5 is a perspective, cut-away view of an embodiment of
console 24 illustrating interlock gate system 26 secured in safety
position 54 of FIG. 4. In this embodiment, safety locking system 56
includes operational connector 42 and hold 58. Connector 42 may be
constructed similar to connector 42 as utilized in the previously
described embodiments further include a tab 60. Tab 60 extends
outward from the main body of connector 42. Hold 58 may comprise
various devices adapted to grip tab 60. In this embodiment, hold 58
comprises a threaded member threadedly connected through a bracket
62 that is connected to console 24.
[0048] Refer now to FIG. 6 wherein another embodiment of interlock
system 10 is provided and described with reference to FIG. 1. In
this embodiment, interlock gate system 26 further includes a
cross-over block system generally denoted by the numeral 64.
Cross-over block system 64, and therefore interlock gate system 26,
can be functionally connected to supplemental grip assurance
interlock system 22 (FIG. 1). Grip assurance interlock system 22
may assure that an operated tubular gripping device 12, 14 has
completed movement to or from the closed or open position, or that
a sufficient grip on tubular string 16 has been obtained before the
other tubular gripping device may be actuated to the open position.
Signals from a sensor or other element of grip assurance interlock
system 22 may be communicated to cross-over block system 64 such
that block system 64 permits or hinders movement of interlock
control device 28 across cross-over 40 and thus prevents actuation
of one of the tubular gripping devices before the other tubular
gripping device has actuated to the closed position. It is noted
that signals may be communicated in various manners including
without limitation by fluid pressure (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic)
and electric signals.
[0049] Cross-over block system 64 may include one or more blocking
devices 66. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, system 64
includes two blocking devices denoted as spider block 66a and
elevator block 66b. Each block device 66 includes an actuator 68
(e.g., driving device) operationally connected to a stop 70 for
positioning stop 70 in a blocking position relative to interlock
control device 28 from actuating either of the tubular gripping
devices from the closed to the open position. In the illustrated
embodiments, blocking device 66 prevents the movement of interlock
control device 28 from moving across cross-over leg 40. In some
embodiments block device 66 may prevent movement of interlock
control device 28 between a closed position 36a, 38a, and the
respective open position 36b, 38b, for example by blocking a
respective leg 36, 38 or otherwise limiting movement of interlock
control device 28.
[0050] As previously noted, spider block 66a is in operational
connection with grip assurance interlock 22 (FIG. 1) and spider 14
such that if spider 14 is not closed, then stop 70 is actuated to a
blocking position, illustrated in cross-over leg 40 in FIG. 6. When
spider 14 is indicated as being closed by grip assurance interlock
system 26, block device 66 is actuated to withdraw stop 70 from the
blocking position. This same process is performed in regard to the
operation of elevator 12 and block device 66b. Although not
illustrated, one block device 66 may be utilized and be
operationally connected to one or both of tubular gripping devices
12, 14 and/or one or both of the interlock systems 2, 3 (FIG. 1).
It is further noted that indicators 72 (e.g., visual and/or audio)
may be connected to signal when the spider 14 and/or the elevator
12 is closed and/or open. For example, indicators 72 may include
without limitation lights, pressure indicators (e.g., re/green
visual signal), horns, whistles and light emitting diodes
(LEDs).
[0051] Refer now to FIGS. 7A-7J wherein another embodiment of
interlock gate system 26 is illustrated. Interlock gate system 26
depicted in FIG. 6 may include a cross-over block system 64.
Interlock gate system 26 is shown in various operational positions
in FIGS. 7A-7J for purposes of illustrating an embodiment of
operation of the system. FIGS. 7A and 7B provide different views of
interlock gate system 26 in the same operational position.
Similarly, each of the groupings of FIGS. 7C and 7D, 7G and 7H, and
7I and 7J, illustrate different views of interlock gate system 26
in the same operational position. In the embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 7A-7J, track 30 is a U-shaped track and for purposes of
description leg 36 is associated with operation of a tubular
gripping device referred to as a spider, and leg 38 is associated
with operation of a tubular gripping device referred to as an
elevator. Also, for purposes of description position 36b is the
spider open position; position 36a is the spider closed position;
position 38a is the elevator closed position; and position 38b is
the elevator open position. This orientation of the positions
corresponds to a typical control console orientation, wherein the
"open" positions are oriented "up" relative to the operator and the
"closed" position is oriented "down." Interlock gate system 26
facilitates that position 36a and 38a corresponds to both of the
tubular gripping devices being closed and that interlock control
device 28 cannot actuate either of the tubular gripping devices to
an open position when the other tubular gripping device is
open.
[0052] Elevator control valve 18 includes an actuation device 18a
and spider control valve 20 includes an actuation device 20a.
Interlock control device 28 is operationally positioned on a rod 74
so as to be selectively moveable between control valves 18 and 20
in the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7J. Rod 74 may be oriented
substantially parallel to and aligned with leg 40 of track 30.
Block device 64 includes an actuator 68 (e.g., driving device),
described herein as fluidic (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic) cylinders,
and a stop member 70. Member 70 may be positioned in the path of
interlock control device 28 to selectively prevent the movement of
interlock control device 28 between actuation devices 18a and 20a.
As described with reference to FIG. 6, blocking device 64 may be in
operational connection with supplemental grip assurance interlock
system 22 (FIG. 1) or another sensor or system to signal position
of the tubular gripping devices.
[0053] In FIGS. 7A and 7B, interlock control device 28 is
illustrated in selective connection with elevator control valve 18
via actuation device 18a. Interlock control device 28 is located at
position or station 38b and has thus actuated valve 18 to open its
associated tubular gripping device. Note that in FIG. 7A that stop
70 is illustrated positioned in the path of interlock control
device 28 between valve actuation device 18a and valve actuation
device 20a. Stop 70 may be positioned in a blocking position in
response to one of the tubular gripping devices being in an open
position as also described with reference to FIG. 6 above.
[0054] In FIGS. 7C and 7D, interlock control device 28 is shown at
position 38a and in selective connection with actuation device 18a.
At position 38a, the associated tubular gripping device has been
actuated to the closed position. Stop 70 is illustrated in the
blocking position indicating that grip assurance interlock system
22 has not signaled that the tubular gripping device associated to
actuation device 18a has completed closing movement.
[0055] FIG. 7E illustrates interlock control device 28 disconnected
from actuation device 18a and device 20a and stop 70 in the
blocking position. FIG. 7F illustrates stop 70 retracted out of the
blocking position permitting movement of interlock control device
28 between control valves 18 and 20.
[0056] In FIGS. 7G and 7H, interlock control device 28 is shown at
position 36a and in selective connection with actuation device 20a.
At position 36a, interlock control device 28 is positioned to
operate the tubular gripping device associated with valve 20 to the
open position. In position 36a, both of the tubular gripping
devices are in the closed position. Stop 70 is illustrated in the
blocking position indicating that grip assurance interlock system
22 detects that at least one of the tubular gripping devices is
either open, not gripping the tubular string, in the process of
opening or closing, or that another selected event has not been
satisfied.
[0057] In FIGS. 7I and 7J, interlock control device 28 is
illustrated in selective connection with elevator control valve 20
via actuation device 20a. Interlock control device 28 is located at
position or station 36b and has thus actuated valve 20 to open its
associated tubular gripping device.
[0058] Refer now to FIG. 8 illustrating another embodiment of
interlock system 26 which is described with reference to FIG. 1 in
particular. In this embodiment, interlock control device 28 is
connected about a pivot 76 and pivots along track 30 (e.g., path)
between first tubular gripping device open position 36a, a second
tubular gripping device open position 38a, and a first and second
tubular gripping device closed position 37. In this embodiment,
first tubular gripping device open position 36a is associated with
tubular gripping device 14 (e.g., spider) and second tubular
gripping device open position 38a is associated with tubular
gripping device 12 (e.g., elevator). In this embodiment, track 30
may be defined as having a first operation leg 36 extending between
open position 36a and closed position 37 associated with tubular
gripping device 14 and a second operational leg 38 extending
between open position 38a and closed position 37 associated with
tubular gripping device 12.
[0059] Track 30 represents the path of travel of interlock control
device 28 between the operational positions as illustrated by the
dashed line on panel 32. Track 30 may be formed through panel 32,
for example as a slot, or on or by panel 32 such as a detent, index
or the like, or it may not be a physical feature but only the route
of movement of a portion of interlock control device between
operational positions. Track 30 may also be defined, in this
embodiment for example, as the outer surface 78 of a cam 80 portion
of interlock control member 28. Closed position 37 may be defined
as a cross-over leg portion wherein both of the tubular gripping
devices are in the closed position. Track 30 is illustrated as a
slot through which a portion of interlock control device 28 (e.g.,
a lever or knob) is disposed.
[0060] In the embodiment of FIG. 8, interlock control device 28 is
operationally connected to tubular gripping device 12 via control
valve 18 and to tubular gripping device 14 via control valve 20. As
noted previously, the functions of control devices 18 and 20 may be
replaced by a single control valve, for example a three-position
directional valve. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more
control valves include actuation devices 18a and 20a. Actuation
devices 18a, 20a are illustrated in this embodiment as levers (such
as depicted in FIGS. 2-5) or as rods (such as depicted in FIGS.
7A-7J). Interlock control device 28 may be in operational contact
with actuation devices 18a, 20a, via cam 80 for example, to operate
tubular gripping devices 12, 14 (FIG. 1) between their operational
positions. In some embodiments, actuation devices 18a, 20a may
include or be replaced by electrical switches, such as contacts,
positioned at the operational positions indicated on track 30 to be
activated by contact with a portion (e.g., a knob) of interlock
control device 28.
[0061] Interlock gate system 26 may include a blocking mechanism
66, for example as described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7A-7J.
Actuator 68 may be operationally connected to an interlock grip
assurance system 22 and tubular gripping device 12 and/or tubular
gripping device 14. Blocking mechanism 66 may actuate stop 70 into
a blocking position for example when one or the other of tubular
gripping device 12 or 14 is not in the gripping (e.g., closed)
position. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking position is
shown as stop 70 engaging interlock control device 28. In this
example, stop 70 is disposed in a detent 82 of cam 80.
[0062] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been
disclosed herein in some detail, this has been done solely for the
purposes of describing various features and aspects of the
invention, and is not intended to be limiting with respect to the
scope of the invention. It is contemplated that various
substitutions, alterations, and/or modifications, including but not
limited to those implementation variations which may have been
suggested herein, may be made to the disclosed embodiments without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by
the appended claims which follow.
* * * * *