U.S. patent application number 14/888839 was filed with the patent office on 2016-03-17 for griphead assembly for manipulating tubulars for subterranean operations.
The applicant listed for this patent is CANRIG DRILLING TECHNOLOGY LTD.. Invention is credited to Brendan LARKIN.
Application Number | 20160076318 14/888839 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51843996 |
Filed Date | 2016-03-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160076318 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LARKIN; Brendan |
March 17, 2016 |
Griphead Assembly for Manipulating Tubulars for Subterranean
Operations
Abstract
A griphead including a housing having a first bumper, and a jaw
assembly comprising at least a first arm, wherein the first arm is
configured to be actuated between an open position and closed
position by controlling a relative position of the first arm
relative to the bumper.
Inventors: |
LARKIN; Brendan; (Houston,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CANRIG DRILLING TECHNOLOGY LTD. |
Houston |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51843996 |
Appl. No.: |
14/888839 |
Filed: |
May 2, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
May 2, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US14/36654 |
371 Date: |
November 3, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61819351 |
May 3, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
166/75.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 19/06 20130101;
E21B 19/155 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E21B 19/06 20060101
E21B019/06; E21B 19/15 20060101 E21B019/15 |
Claims
1. A griphead for use in manipulating tubulars for subterranean
operations comprising: a housing comprising a first bumper; and a
jaw assembly comprising at least a first arm, wherein the first arm
is configured to be actuated between an open position and closed
position by controlling a relative position of the first arm
relative to the bumper.
2. A griphead for use in manipulating tubulars for subterranean
operations comprising: a housing comprising a first bumper and a
second bumper different than the first bumper; and a jaw assembly
comprising a first arm and a second arm, wherein the jaw assembly
is configured to be moveable between an open position and a closed
position, wherein in the open position the first arm is spaced
apart from the first bumper and the second arm is spaced apart from
the second bumper, and in a closed position the first arm is
configured to be engaged with the first bumper and the second arm
is configured to be engaged with the second bumper.
3. A griphead for use in manipulating tubulars for subterranean
operations comprising: a housing comprising a bumper; and a jaw
assembly comprising at least a first arm, wherein the first arm is
configured to be actuated between an open position and closed
position; and a central arm configured to engage a tubular, wherein
the gripping force on the tubular is controlled by a position of
the central arm relative to the jaw assembly.
4. The griphead of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the first arm
comprises an upper surface, and a first pin extending from the
upper surface, wherein the first pin is configured to engage a
first slot in the housing.
5. The griphead of claim 4, wherein the first pin is configured to
translate between a first position and a second position within the
first slot.
6. The griphead of claim 5, wherein the first position of the first
pin corresponds to an open position of the first arm and a second
position of the first pin within the first slot corresponds to a
closed position of the first arm.
7. The griphead of any of claims 1 and 3, further comprising a
second arm spaced apart from the first arm, wherein the second arm
is configured to be actuated between an open position and a closed
position by controlling a relative position of the second arm
relative to a second bumper.
8. The griphead of claim 7, wherein in the open position the second
arm is spaced apart from the second bumper.
9. The griphead of claim 7, wherein in the closed position the
second arm is abutting at least a portion of the second bumper.
10. The griphead of claim 7, wherein the second arm comprises an
upper surface, and a second pin extending from the upper surface,
wherein the second pin is configured to engage a second slot in the
housing.
11. The griphead of claim 10, wherein the second pin is configured
to translate between a first position and a second position within
the second slot.
12. The griphead of claim 11, wherein the first position of the
second pin corresponds to a closed position of the second arm and a
second position of the second pin within the slot corresponds to an
open position of the second arm.
13. The griphead of claim 2, wherein the first arm comprises an
upper surface, and a first pin extending from the upper surface,
wherein the first pin is configured to engage a first slot in the
housing, and wherein the second arm comprises an upper surface, and
a second pin extending from the upper surface, wherein the second
pin is configured to engage a second slot in the housing.
14. The griphead of claim 13, wherein the first pin is configured
to translate between a first position and a second position within
the first slot, and wherein the second pin is configured to
translate between a first position and a second position within the
second slot.
15. The griphead of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the jaw
assembly is configured to be translated in a linear direction
relative to the housing causing rotational movement the first
arm.
16. The griphead of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the first
arm is configured to be moved from an open position to a closed
position by moving the jaw assembly relative to the housing and
abutting a surface of the first arm against the first bumper and
urging rotational movement of the first arm to the closed
position.
17. The griphead of any of claims 1 and 3, further comprising a
second arm spaced apart from the first arm, wherein the second arm
is configured to be actuated between an open position and a closed
position by controlling a relative position of the second arm
relative to a second bumper.
18. The griphead of any of claim 17, wherein the second arm is
configured to be moved from an open position to a closed position
by moving the jaw assembly relative to the housing and abutting a
surface of the second arm against the second bumper and urging
rotational movement of the second arm to the closed position.
19. The griphead of claim 2, wherein the second arm is configured
to be moved from an open position to a closed position by moving
the jaw assembly relative to the housing and abutting a surface of
the second arm against the second bumper and urging rotational
movement of the second arm to the closed position.
20. The griphead of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the jaw
assembly comprises an actuator box, and wherein the actuator box is
configured to be translated in a linear direction relative to the
housing causing rotational movement and linear movement of the
first arm.
21. The griphead of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, further comprising a
sensor configured to measure a diameter of a tubular.
22. The griphead of claim 21, wherein a grip pressure of the jaw
assembly is adjusted based on a diameter of the tubular.
23. The griphead of claim 21, wherein a grip pressure is configured
to be adjusted based on a pressure applied by a piston to an
actuator box of the jaw assembly.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The following is generally directed to a system for
manipulating tubulars for subterranean operations, and more
particularly, a griphead for manipulating tubulars.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Drilling for oil and gas with a rotary drilling rigs is
being undertaken to increasingly greater depths both offshore and
on land, and is an increasingly expensive operation given the
demands to search for resources deeper into the earth, which
translates into longer drilling time. In fact, it has been recently
estimated that the costs to operate some rigs can exceed nearly
half a million dollars per day. Thus a heavy emphasis is placed on
procedures for reducing delays in the drilling operation.
[0003] Currently, one of the most regular delays in the drilling
operation is the extension of the drill string. When a small part
of the tubular string extends above the drilling deck, additional
tubulars must be moved from a storage rack and connected with the
upper end of the tubular string to continue drilling to greater
depths. Today, top drive rotary systems are most often used in
place of other, older technology (e.g., a rotary table to turn the
drill string), because it allows the rig to utilize pre-assembled
tubular stands. The creation and handling of tubular stands,
independently of the drilling process, is a potentially important
way to save time and money, since multiple strings of tubulars can
be assembled offline which can cause less delays to the actual
drilling operation.
[0004] Previous systems of handling tubulars and creating stands
while conducting drilling operations have been described. See, for
example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,850,439. However, such systems generally
rely upon a hoist to lift the tubular and lack features to ensure
the safety of the workers. Other systems utilized in manipulating
tubulars have been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,976,540, U.S. Pat.
No. 4,834,604, U.S. Pub. No. 2006/0151215, and U.S. Pat. No.
6,220,607. Generally, these handling systems, are heavy, costly,
and consume a large amount of space. Moreover, these systems
generally require significant human physical contact with the
tubulars and lifting equipment at numerous times and locations,
which can result in costly delay or possible injury. The alignment
and transfer operations are lengthy and complex and the paths of
the tubulars in the offline stand building are not fully
restricted, which creates delay and safety hazards.
[0005] The industry continues to demand improvements in drilling
technologies.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to a first aspect, a system for use in
subterranean operations can include a griphead including a housing
having a first bumper, and a jaw assembly comprising at least a
first arm, wherein the first arm is configured to be actuated
between an open position and closed position by controlling a
relative position of the first arm relative to the bumper.
[0007] According to another aspect, a griphead for use in
manipulating tubulars for subterranean operations includes a
housing comprising a first bumper and a second bumper different
than the first bumper and a jaw assembly comprising a first arm and
a second arm, wherein the jaw assembly can be configured to be
moveable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in
the open position the first arm is spaced apart from the first
bumper and the second arm is spaced apart from the second bumper,
and in a closed position the first arm is configured to be engaged
with the first bumper and the second arm is configured to be
engaged with the second bumper.
[0008] In still another aspect, a griphead for use in manipulating
tubulars for subterranean operations can include a housing
comprising a bumper and a jaw assembly comprising at least a first
arm, wherein the first arm is configured to be actuated between an
open position and closed position and a central arm configured to
engage a tubular, wherein the gripping force on the tubular is
controlled by a position of the central arm relative to the jaw
assembly.
[0009] In certain embodiments, the first arm can include an upper
surface, and a first pin extending from the upper surface, wherein
the first pin is configured to engage a first slot in the housing.
In particular, the first pin can be configured to translate between
a first position and a second position within the first slot,
wherein the first position of the first pin corresponds to an open
position of the first arm and a second position of the first pin
within the first slot corresponds to a closed position of the first
arm.
[0010] In another embodiment, the second arm can be spaced apart
from the first arm, wherein the second arm is can be configured to
be actuated between an open position and a closed position by
controlling a relative position of the second arm relative to a
second bumper. In particular instances, in the open position the
second arm can be spaced apart from the second bumper and in the
closed position the second arm can be abutting at least a portion
of the second bumper.
[0011] In one embodiment, the second arm can include an upper
surface, and a second pin extending from the upper surface, wherein
the second pin is configured to engage a second slot in the
housing, and further wherein the second pin is configured to
translate between a first position and a second position within the
second slot. Moreover, the first position of the second pin can
correspond to a closed position of the second arm and a second
position of the second pin within the slot can correspond to an
open position of the second arm.
[0012] In another aspect, the jaw assembly can be configured to be
translated in a linear direction relative to the housing causing
rotational movement the first arm. In particular, the first arm can
be configured to be moved from an open position to a closed
position by moving the jaw assembly relative to the housing and
abutting a surface of the first arm against the first bumper and
urging rotational movement of the first arm to the closed position.
The jaw assembly can further include a second arm spaced apart from
the first arm, wherein the second arm is configured to be actuated
between an open position and a closed position by controlling a
relative position of the second arm relative to a second bumper. In
certain designs, the second arm can be configured to be moved from
an open position to a closed position by moving the jaw assembly
relative to the housing and abutting a surface of the second arm
against the second bumper and urging rotational movement of the
second arm to the closed position.
[0013] In another aspect, the jaw assembly can include an actuator
box, and the first arm can be coupled to the actuator box, wherein
the first arm can be moveably coupled to the actuator box at a
fastener, and wherein the first arm is coupled to the actuator box
and configured to rotate around a portion of the actuator box at
the fastener. The fastener can be selected from the group
consisting of a hinge, a pin, and a combination thereof. Moreover,
in certain instances, the actuator box can be configured to move
between a first position and a second position relative to the
housing. The actuator box can be configured to move between a first
position corresponding to an open position of the first arm and a
second position corresponding to a closed position of the second
arm. Furthermore, the actuator box can be configured to be
translated in a linear direction relative to the housing causing
rotational movement of the first arm as the first arm engages the
first bumper. In certain instances, the actuator box can be
configured to be translated in a linear direction relative to the
housing causing rotational movement and linear movement of the
first arm.
[0014] In another aspect, the griphead can include a piston coupled
to a central arm, wherein the piston can be configured to move
between a first position and a second position, and further wherein
the piston can be configured to move an actuator box from a first
position to a second position corresponding to the first position
and second position of the piston. In one embodiment, the piston
can be configured to move the first arm between the open position
and the closed position corresponding to the first position and
second position of the piston. In another embodiment, the piston
can be configured to move a second arm between an open position and
a closed position corresponding to the first position and second
position of the piston.
[0015] Furthermore, in certain instances, the piston can be coupled
to a sensor configured to measure the force applied by the piston
to the actuator box. In yet another embodiment, the piston can
include a transducer configured to measure a pressure applied by
the piston on the actuator box and generate a signal based on the
pressure, wherein the pressure applied by the piston is adjusted
based on the signal. Moreover, in one embodiment, the griphead can
further include a logic device configured to adjust the pressure
applied by the piston based on the signal.
[0016] The griphead of the embodiments herein can include a sensor
configured to measure a diameter of a tubular. Moreover, the grip
pressure of the jaw assembly can be adjusted based on a diameter of
the tubular. For example, the grip pressure can be adjusted based
on a pressure applied by a piston to an actuator box of the jaw
assembly. In other instances, a grip pressure can be configured to
be adjusted based on a pressure applied by a piston to a central
arm in contact with the tubular.
[0017] In another aspect, the jaw assembly can be adapted to grasp
a tubular having a diameter of at least about 4 inches and a
diameter of not greater than about 25 inches.
[0018] In yet another embodiment, the first arm can have a first
contact pad coupled to an interior surface of the first arm. In
another embodiment, the first contact pad can have a convex
curvature relative to the interior surface of the first arm. The
first contact pad can be configured to be replaceable. Moreover,
the first contact pad can be made of a material having a hardness
less than a hardness of a material of the tubular.
[0019] The jaw assembly can also include a second arm spaced apart
from the first arm, wherein the second arm comprises a second
contact pad coupled to an interior surface of the second arm. The
jaw assembly can also include a central arm configured to engage a
portion of a tubular and having a central contact pad, wherein the
first contact pad, second contact pad, and central contact pad have
a convex curvature.
[0020] In one particular embodiment, the grip head can include a
first arm, a second arm spaced apart from the first arm, wherein
the second arm is configured to be actuated between an open
position and a closed position by controlling a relative position
of the second arm relative to a second bumper, and wherein the
first arm comprises a first contact pad, the second arm comprises a
second contact pad, and a central arm comprises a central contact
pad, wherein the first contact pad, second contact pad, and central
contact pad are configured to engage the tubular at contact points.
Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the contact points can be
spaced apart from each other by a central angle of at least 90
degrees relative to a center of the tubular, such as at least about
95 degrees, at least about 98 degrees, at least about 100 degrees,
at least about 105 degrees, and not greater than about 170 degrees,
or even not greater than about 160 degrees.
[0021] In certain instances, the first bumper can be affixed to the
housing, and wherein the first arm moves and the first bumper is
stationary. In yet another aspect, the first bumper can be
configured to be moved between a first position and a second
position, and wherein the first position of the bumper corresponds
to an open position of the first arm and a second position of the
bumper corresponds to a closed position of the first arm.
[0022] In yet another aspect, a kit for maintenance of a griphead
for use in manipulating tubulars for subterranean operations can
include at least one of a first contact pad for a first arm, a
second contact pad for a second arm, and a central contact pad for
a central arm.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The present disclosure may be better understood, and its
numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in
the art by referencing the accompanying drawings.
[0024] FIG. 1A includes a side view of a system for use in
subterranean operations, including a tubular lift system in
accordance with an embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 1B includes a plan view of a system for use in
subterranean operations, including a tubular lift system in
accordance with an embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 2A includes illustrations of tubulars in accordance
with an embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 2B includes an illustration of a portion of a tubular
in accordance with an embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 2C includes an illustration of a portion of a tubular
in accordance with an embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 2D includes an illustration of a tubular in accordance
with an embodiment.
[0030] FIGS. 3A-3F include perspective view illustrations of an
engagement head and mousehole assembly in accordance with
embodiments.
[0031] FIG. 4 includes a cross-sectional view illustration of a
portion of a mousehole assembly in accordance with an
embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 5A includes a perspective view illustration of a grip
head in accordance with an embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 5B includes a top view illustration of a portion of a
grip head in an open position in accordance with an embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 5C includes a top view illustration of grip head
engaging a tubular in accordance with an embodiment.
[0035] FIGS. 6A-6K include schematic illustrations of a system for
manipulating tubulars for a subterranean operation in accordance
with an embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 7A includes an illustration of a portion of a
stabilizer in accordance with an embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 7B includes an illustration of a portion of a
stabilizer in accordance with an embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 8 includes an illustration of a tubular in a stabilized
state and a controlled angular variation in accordance with an
embodiment.
[0039] The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings
indicates similar or identical items.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)
[0040] The following is directed to systems for manipulating
tubulars for subterranean operations, including but not limited to
drilling operations directed to resources such as natural gas and
oil. The present embodiments include description of one or more
components of a system that may be employed in various
stand-building processes. The present embodiments may be utilized
one land or on water. In certain instances, the components,
systems, and processes described herein may be utilized in
off-shore drilling operations, particularly on jack-up rigs that
generally have limited space to conduct operations.
[0041] FIG. 1A includes a side view of a system for manipulating
tubulars for use in subterranean operations in accordance with an
embodiment. In particular, the system 100 can include a derrick 101
extending from a drill floor 103 and configured to be a structure
for supporting certain tools to conduct the subterranean
operations. The drill floor 103 may be suspended above the earth as
a structure to support the tools utilized in the drilling
operation. As further illustrated, the system 100 can include a
bore hole 104 or an opening in the drill floor 103 providing
suitable access to the earth and natural materials beneath the
earth's surface.
[0042] As further illustrated, the system 100 can include a pipe
loader 105 that may be a machine configured to grab tubulars 107
from a storage location and place them on a pipe pusher 106. The
pipe pusher 106 can be configured to move the tubular 107 from the
pipe loader 105 to a tubular lift system 130 located on the drill
floor 103. As illustrated, the tubular lift system 130 may be used
to organize and combine one or more tubulars, and in particular,
can be used in the formation of stands (i.e., a plurality of
tubulars connected together). The tubular lift system 130 can be a
remote-controlled tubular lift system (RCTLS). The tubular lift
system 130 can include a stabilizer 111, which may be utilized to
position the tubular 107 into an initial position for engagement
with an engagement head 109.
[0043] The engagement head 109 may manipulate the tubular 107 from
a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical
position to facilitate forming a stand of tubulars which may be
stored in a rack 115. The tubulars placed in the rack 115 may be
later engaged and brought to well center 188 by a griphead 114 that
may facilitate their use in the down hole, drilling operation. As
further illustrated, the tubular lift system 130 may include an
iron roughneck 112, which may be utilized to facilitate joining of
the tubulars and formation of stands. Furthermore, the tubular lift
system 130 may include an engagement head tower 108 along which an
engagement head 109 may be translated to facilitate a change in
position of the tubular 107 from a substantially horizontal
position to a substantially vertical position. The tubular lift
system 130 may include an operator cab 110 that is configured to
house an operator controlling one or more of the components of the
tubular lift system 130.
[0044] FIG. 1B includes a top view of a system for manipulation of
tubulars for the subterranean operation in accordance with an
embodiment. As further illustrated in the top view, the drill floor
103 can include a work zone 131, and the work zone 131 can include
components of the tubular lift system 130, including but not
limited to, the stabilizer 111, the mousehole assembly 113, the
engagement head 109, the engagement head tower 108, and the iron
roughneck 112. The drill floor 103 may further include an operator
zone 132 spaced away from the work zone 131 and configured to house
a controller or operator. The operator cab 110 can be disposed
within the operator zone 132, and the operator can control movement
of one or more components of the tubular lift system 130 from the
operator zone 132. Furthermore, the operator zone 132 may include
an input module configured to facilitate control of one or more
components of the tubular lift system 130. Some exemplary input
modules that may be utilized herein can include devices such as a
control column, a joystick, an analog device, a digital device, a
potentiometer, a variable resistor, a gyroscope, and a combination
thereof.
[0045] In accordance with one particular embodiment, the tubular
lift system 130 can be a remote-controlled operation, configured to
allow an operator to be remotely located relative to the work zone
131. For example, any of the components of the tubular lift system
130 of the embodiments herein can be remote-controlled, and in
particular, may be controlled by operation of one or more input
modules to guide and control movement of the components by an
operator in the operator zone 132 spaced apart from the work zone
131. The operator can be contained within an operator zone 132 and
spaced away from the work zone 131, thus reducing the likelihood of
injury to the operator. Moreover, any of the components or all of
the components of the tubular lift system 130 may be fully
automated, such that an entire stand-building operation can be
controlled by actuation of a single switch.
[0046] FIG. 2A includes an illustration of various tubulars that
may be utilized with respect to the tubular lift system of the
embodiments herein. The term "tubular" as used herein means all
forms of pipe, including but not limited to, heavy weight drill
pipe, such as HEVI-WATE.TM. tubulars, casing, drill collars, liner,
bottom hole assemblies, and other types of tubulars known in the
art. HEVI-WATE.TM. is a registered trademark of Smith
International, Inc. of Houston, Tex. For example, some suitable
tubulars can include drill pipes, including for example, a single
drill pipe 201, which may have an average length of approximately
30 feet. Additionally, drill pipes may be joined together at a tool
joint to form a double 202. Furthermore, multiple drill pipes
including for example three or more drill pipes can be joined
together to form a stand 203. In one particular embodiment, a
combination of at least four drill pipes may be referred to as a
fourble.
[0047] As further illustrated, the drill pipes can have a
particular tool joint that may be utilized for joining two drill
pipes together. For example, the tool joint 205 may include an
enlarged end portion 208, commonly referred to as a box. The
enlarged end portion 208 may be joined to a central portion 207
having a smaller external diameter connected by a tapered surface
206, which can define a portion of the proximal end region of the
tubular. As will be further appreciated, joining of the pipes may
be facilitated by a threaded engagement. Furthermore, one end of
the tubular may have a female connection with a threaded surface
extending into the interior of the tubular, while the opposite end
of the tubular may have a male joint having a threaded portion
extending from the interior of the tool joint.
[0048] In accordance with one embodiment, a tubular may include a
proximal end region that can be spaced away from a center of
gravity of the tubular. In accordance with an embodiment, the
proximal end region can be defined as a region that is spaced away
from the center of gravity by at least about 0.2 (l), wherein l is
the length of the tubular. Referring briefly to FIG. 2D, an
illustration of a tubular is provided. As illustrated, the tubular
can include a center of gravity 250 and a length l. As further
illustrated, the tubular can include a proximal end region 252,
which is spaced a distance 251 from the center of gravity 250 of
the tubular. The distance 251 can be at least 0.2 (l) away from the
center of gravity 250. In other embodiments, the proximal end
region 252 can be spaced a distance 251 from the center of gravity,
including for example at least about 0.25 (l), at least about 0.3
(l), at least about 0.35 (l), at least about 0.4 (l), or even at
least about 0.42 (l). Still, it will be appreciated that in certain
instances, the proximal end region 252 may be spaced apart from and
non-intersecting a proximal terminating end 253 of the tubular,
such that the distance 251 is not greater than about 0.5 (l), not
greater than about 0.49 (l), or even not greater than about 0.48
(l). It will be appreciated that the distance 251 can be within a
range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted
above.
[0049] As further illustrated in FIG. 2D, the tubular can have a
distal end region 262 spaced a distance 257 from the center of
gravity 250. According to one embodiment, the distance 257 can be
at least 0.2 (l) away from the center of gravity 250. In other
embodiments, the distal end region 262 can be spaced a distance 257
from the center of gravity 250 of at least about 0.25 (l), at least
about 0.3 (l), at least about 0.35 (l), at least about 0.4 (l), or
even at least about 0.42 (l). Still, it will be appreciated that in
certain instances, the distal end region 262 may be spaced apart
from and non-intersecting a distal terminating end 263 of the
tubular, such that the distance 257 is not greater than about 0.5
(l), not greater than about 0.49 (l), or even not greater than
about 0.48 (l). It will be appreciated that the distance 257 can be
within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted
above.
[0050] Referring again to FIG. 2A, the proximal end region 252 of a
tubular may include a proximal engagement region having a proximal
engagement surface shaped for complimentary engagement with a
portion of the engagement head 109. For at least one embodiment,
the proximal engagement region may include a region of the tubular
having a smaller diameter relative to a diameter of the tubular at
a proximal tool joint 205. For example, the central portion 207 and
the tapered surface 206, which are adjacent the enlarged end
portion 208, may define a proximal engagement surface and
facilitate complementary engagement with portions of the engagement
head 109.
[0051] Other types of tubulars, as provided in FIG. 2A can include
a drill collar 220. In one instance, the drill collar 220 may have
a fluted surface 221, which may have particular uses in certain
subterranean operations. Referring briefly to FIG. 2B, a portion of
a drill collar 220 is illustrated. In particular, a proximal end
region of the drill collar 220 can include a lift nipple 222
extending from a terminating end 223 of the drill collar 220. In
certain instances, the proximal end region of the drill collar 220
may include the lift nipple 222, which may be configured to be
engaged with the engagement head 109 to facilitate changing the
position of the drill collar 220 from a substantially horizontal
position to a substantially vertical position.
[0052] Referring again to FIG. 2A, another type of tubular can be
casing 230. As illustrated, the casing 230 may be generally a
cylindrical shape with a smooth exterior surface. Referring briefly
to FIG. 2C, a proximal end region of a casing 230 is illustrated.
In accordance with an embodiment the casing 230 can have a proximal
end region including a zip groove 231 which may facilitate
engagement of the proximal end region of the casing 230 with the
engagement head 109 and a change of position of the casing 230 from
a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical
position.
[0053] In accordance with another embodiment, any of the tubulars
described herein can have a distal end region 262 displaced a
distance from the proximal end region 252, and more particularly,
may be positioned at or near the opposite end of the tubular from
the proximal end region 252. It will be appreciated that the distal
end region 262 can include any of the features of the proximal end
region 252. For example, the distal end region 262 may include a
distal engagement region 267 that may include a feature such as a
tapered surface 266 extending at an angle relative to a joint
surface 269.
[0054] Additionally, or alternatively, the distal engagement region
267 can include a distal engagement surface that is shaped for
complementary engagement with a portion of a stabilizer 111. The
distal end engagement region 267 can have a diameter that can be
smaller than the diameter of the tubular at the distal terminating
end. Moreover, as described herein with respect to the proximal
engagement region, the distal end region may include a zip groove,
a lift nipple, and the like. As illustrated herein, the distal end
region 262 of the tubular can include a distal tool joint 270,
which may include a threaded surface for engagement with another
end of a tubular.
[0055] The tubulars of embodiments herein may have a particular
aspect ratio, as measured by the minimum outer diameter to the
length (minimum outer diameter:length) of the tubular. In
accordance with an embodiment, the tubulars herein can have an
aspect ratio of at least about 1:2, such as at least about 1:5, at
least about 1:8, at least about 1:10, or even at least about
1:15.
[0056] The tubulars of the embodiments herein can have various
sizes depending upon their intended purpose. For example, the
tubulars herein may have a minimum outer diameter of at least about
4 inches, such as at least about 4.5 inches, at least about 5
inches, or even at least about 6 inches. Still, the tubulars of the
embodiments herein may have a minimum outer diameter that is not
greater than about 25 inches, such as not greater than about 20
inches, not greater than about 15 inches, or even not greater than
about 12 inches.
[0057] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the size and weight
of tubulars herein is significant. For example, the tubulars may
have a weight of at least about 100 kg, such as at least about 200
kg, at least about 300 kg.
Engagement Head Assembly and a Mousehole Assembly
[0058] FIGS. 3A-3F include perspective view illustrations of
certain components used in the tubular lift system 130 of the
embodiments herein. Other components, such as the stabilizer 111
and alignment elements, which are also part of the tubular lift
system 130 may be described in more detail in another section
herein. FIG. 3A includes a perspective view illustration of an
engagement head assembly 311 and mousehole assembly 113 in
accordance with an embodiment. As illustrated, the engagement head
assembly 311 can include an engagement head 109 coupled to an
engagement head tower 304 via a carriage 303. The engagement head
109 can be positioned below a tubular 308 provided a substantially
horizontal position.
[0059] It will be appreciated that the engagement head assembly 311
can be contained within the work zone 131 on the drill floor 103.
Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the engagement head tower
304, which is part of the engagement head assembly 311, can be
contained with the work zone 131 on the drill floor 103. In one
embodiment, the engagement head assembly 311 can include rails
extending vertically from the drill floor 103 providing a pathway
for movement of the engagement head 109. The carriage of 303 of the
engagement head assembly 311 can be configured to couple the
engagement head 109 with the engagement head tower 304 and further
facilitate translating of the engagement head 109 along the
engagement head tower 304.
[0060] The engagement head 109 can include a first portion 301 and
a second portion 302, which may be movable with respect to each
other. For example, in one embodiment, the first portion 301 may be
configured to move relative to the second portion 302. Still in
other embodiments, the first portion 301 may be stationary and the
second portion 302 may be configured to move relative to the first
portion 301. As illustrated, the engagement head 109 may be in the
form of a jaw including the first portion 301 and second portion
302, which can move with respect to each other from an open
position to a closed position. In the open position, such as
illustrated in FIG. 3A, the second portion 302 can be spaced apart
from the first portion 301 and configured to engage a proximal end
region 307 of the tubular 308. The first portion 301 and second
portion 302 can be moved relative to each other to a closed
position, such as illustrated in FIG. 3B. Notably, in the closed
position, the first portion 301 and the second portion 302 of the
engagement head 109 may be configured to grasp the proximal end
region 307 of the tubular 308.
[0061] In at least one embodiment, the first portion 301 of the
engagement head 109 may have a complementary surface having a shape
configured to engage at least a portion of the proximal end region
307 of the tubular 308. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, the
first portion 301 can include a generally arcuate surface
configured for complementary engagement of the cylindrical surface
of the proximal end region 307 of the tubular 308. Furthermore, the
engagement head 109 can include a second portion 302 having a
surface 310 configured to engage a portion of the proximal end
region 307 of the tubular 308. In particular instances, the surface
310 of the second portion 302 may be shaped for complementary
engagement with at least a portion of the surface of the proximal
end region 307 of the tubular 308. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 3A, the surface 310 may have at least a generally arcuate
surface configured for engagement with at least a portion of the
exterior surface of the proximal end region 307 of the tubular
308.
[0062] The engagement head 109 can be configured to translate
vertically along an engagement head axis 310. It will be
appreciated that certain directions described herein can be defined
with respect to a plane generally defined by the drill floor 103.
For example, a vertical axis can be defined by the vertical
direction 396 extending perpendicular to the plane of the drill
floor 103. A horizontal axis can be defined by the horizontal
direction 397 extending in a direction parallel to the drill floor
103. The lateral axis can be defined by a lateral direction 398 can
extend perpendicular to the vertical direction 396 and
perpendicular to the horizontal direction 397. As further
illustrated, the combination of the lateral direction 396 and
horizontal direction 397 can define a plane that is substantially
parallel with the drill floor 103.
[0063] It is noted herein, the engagement head 109 can be
configured to translate vertically along an engagement head axis
310 which may be substantially parallel to a predetermined vertical
axis. The predetermined vertical axis can extend in the vertical
direction 396 and is an identified axis providing suitable
alignment between one or more components and facilitating suitable
stand-building operations. In particular instances, the engagement
head axis 310 can be the same as the predetermined vertical axis.
In other embodiments, the engagement head axis 310 can be spaced
apart from the predetermined vertical axis. The engagement head 109
can be configured to translate along the engagement head axis 310,
which can further be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis
of a tubular in the substantially vertical position.
[0064] In accordance with an embodiment, the engagement head
assembly 311 can include at least one drive device selected from
the group of devices consisting of a motor, a hydraulic device, a
pneumatic device, a stepper motor, a servo motor, DC motor, AC
motor, and a combination thereof. The drive device can be
configured to allow for movement of one or more components of the
engagement head assembly 311, including for example, but not
limited to movement of the engagement head 109 for engagement with
a proximal end 307 of the tubular 308. In still other instances,
the drive device may be configured to translate the engagement head
109 on the engagement head tower 304, and more particularly,
vertically translate the engagement head 109 along the engagement
head axis 310 along the engagement head tower 304. Furthermore, at
least one drive device may be utilized to facilitate rotation of
the engagement head 109 relative around a rotational axis 315.
While the rotational axis 315 is shown as extending generally in
the lateral direction 398, it will be appreciated that the
rotational axis 315 can extend in any direction, including the
vertical axis 396, the horizontal axis 397, the lateral axis 396,
and any axis in between.
[0065] FIG. 3B includes a perspective view illustration of an
engagement head assembly engaged with a tubular in accordance with
an embodiment. In particular, the engagement head 109 is in a
closed position and the second portion 302 of the engagement head
109 can be grasping and engaged with the proximal end region 307 of
the tubular 308. Furthermore, as illustrated the engagement head
109 is illustrated as translating in a vertical direction 396 along
the engagement head axis 310. Moreover, the engagement head 109 has
rotated around the rotational axis 315 to facilitate an initial
change of position of the tubular 308 from a substantially
horizontal position as illustrated in FIG. 3A to a substantially
vertical position. As illustrated, the engagement head 109 can be
in a closed position
[0066] According to one embodiment, the engagement head 109 can
include a drive device 312 that facilitates relative movement of
the second portion 302 to the first portion 301 of the engagement
head 109. In particular instances, the drive device 312 can be a
pneumatic device or hydraulic device configured to translate linear
motion to a rotational motion of the second portion 302 and
facilitate movement of the second portion 302 between an open
position and a closed position. It will be appreciated that other
drive devices may be utilized to achieve relative motion between
the first portion 301 and the second portion 302.
[0067] The engagement head assembly 311 can include a carriage 303
including a drive device 313. The drive device 313 can include a
hydraulic or pneumatic device configured to translate linearly and
convert the linear motion of the drive device to rotary motion of
the engagement head 109 around a rotational axis 315. As noted
herein, the rotational axis 315 may correspond to a generally
lateral direction 398. As shown in FIG. 3B, the engagement head 109
can be configured to rotate in a direction 316 about the rotational
axis 315. It will be appreciated that other drive devices may be
utilized to achieve relative rotational motion of the engagement
head 109.
[0068] While not illustrated, it will be appreciated that certain
designs of the engagement head 109 may allow for translation of the
engagement head 109 in a horizontal direction 397 relative to the
engagement head tower 304. In other embodiments, while not
illustrated, it will be appreciated that the engagement head 109
can be coupled to the engagement head tower 304 and configured to
translate in a lateral direction 396 relative to the engagement
tower 304. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the
engagement head 109 may be configured to translate in a single
direction, and more particularly, in a fixed vertical direction 396
along the engagement head axis 310. Accordingly, in such instances,
the engagement head 109 may have limited ability to translate in a
horizontal direction 397 or a lateral direction 398.
[0069] In accordance with an embodiment, the engagement head 109
can include a sensor 305 that may be configured to detect certain
aspects of the tube lifting process. Reference herein to a sensor
can include a device such as a transducer, an optical sensor, a
mechanical sensor, a magnetic sensor, an encoder, and a combination
thereof.
[0070] In one aspect, the engagement head 109 can include a sensor
configured to detect a force applied to a tubular 308. In
particular instances, the engagement head 109 can be configured to
have selectable force or pressure settings, wherein the engagement
head 109 can have different pressure states based upon at least one
characteristic of a tubular 308. For example, the engagement head
109 can be configured to adapt a force applied to a tubular based
on the size of the tubular. In one embodiment, the sensor 305 of
the engagement head 109 can detect a diameter of the tubular to be
engaged with the engagement head 109 and select a force to be
applied to the tubular 308 based upon the detected diameter of the
tubular 308. In certain other aspects, the sensor 305 may generate
a signal representative of the detected diameter of the tubular 308
that can be sent to an operator of the tubular lift system. The
operator can then select a force to be applied by the engagement
head 109 to the tubular 308 based upon the detected diameter of the
tubular 308.
[0071] In accordance with one aspect, the engagement head 109 can
be configured to adapt to tubulars of different diameters, and more
particularly, may have a jaw configured to grasp tubulars of
different diameters. For example, in one embodiment, the engagement
head 109 can include a sensor 305 that is configured to detect a
size, and more particularly, detect an external diameter of a
tubular 308. Based upon the size of the tubular 308, the engagement
head 109 can be configured to adapt to the size of the tubular. For
example, in one embodiment, the size of the opening 316 defined
between the first portion 301 and the second portion 302 can change
in dimension in response to a detected size of the tubular 308.
[0072] In accordance with another embodiment, the engagement head
109 can include a sensor, such as the sensor 305, which can be
configured to detect a location of the tubular 308 relative to at
least one surface of the engagement head 109. For example, the
engagement head 109 can detect a location of a tubular 308 relative
to at least one surface, such as a surface of the first portion 301
of the engagement head 109.
[0073] It will be appreciated that reference herein to a sensor 305
is non-limiting. For example, a suitable sensor may be placed on
any portion of the engagement head assembly 311 or with any
component of the engagement head assembly 311 to facilitate
detection of any one of the location tubular 308, size of a tubular
308, force applied to a tubular, and relative position of one of
the components of the engagement head assembly 311 relative to
another component of the tubular lift system 130. For example, in
one instance, the engagement head assembly 311 can include at least
one sensor configured to detect a position of the engagement head
109 relative to a position on the engagement head tower 304. In
another embodiment, the engagement head assembly 311 may include at
least one sensor configured to detect at least one of a rotational
position of the engagement head 109, a vertical position of the
engagement head 109, a horizontal position of the engagement head
109, a position of a tubular with respect to the engagement head
109, an angular variation of the tubular relative to a
predetermined vertical axis, and any other combination thereof.
[0074] FIG. 3C includes a perspective view illustration of an
engagement head assembly and a mousehole assembly in accordance
with an embodiment. As illustrated, the tubular 308 has changed
position from a substantially horizontal position, as illustrated
in FIG. 3A, to a substantially vertical position, as illustrated in
FIG. 3C. Furthermore, the tubular 308 has been translated along a
predetermined vertical axis and positioned within a mousehole
assembly 113. In accordance with an embodiment, the engagement head
109 can be configured to translate vertically in a vertical
direction 396 along the engagement head tower 304 and translate the
tubular 308 in a vertical position along the predetermined vertical
axis. Notably, one particular aspect of the present tubular lift
system is the ability to maintain a stabilized state of the
tubular, such that the tubular has a very low angular variation
with respect to a predetermined axis. The stabilized state may be
achieved when the tubular 308 is initially secured in the
substantially vertical position, and further while translating the
tubular 308 along the predetermined vertical axis to deliver the
tubular to the mousehole assembly 113.
[0075] According to one embodiment, the tubular 308 can be
configured to be translated along the predetermined vertical axis
in a stabilized state having an angular variation of not greater
than about 5 degrees. Suitable angular variation can facilitate
efficient operations, and particularly, efficient stand-building
operations. The angular variation of the tubular can be measured as
an angle between the predetermined vertical axis and a longitudinal
axis of the tubular 308. FIG. 8 includes an illustration of a
tubular and the angular variation. As illustrated, the tubular 801
can have a longitudinal axis 891 corresponding and parallel to a
direction of the length of the tubular 801. The tubular can be
oriented with respect to a predetermined vertical axis 890, and
notably, an angle 893 can define an angle between the predetermined
vertical axis 890 and the longitudinal axis 891 of the tubular 801.
As noted herein, in a stabilized state, the angular variation of
the tubular 801 can be particularly low, such as not greater than
about 4.4 degrees, such as not greater than about 4 degrees, not
greater than about 3.5 degrees, not greater than about 3 degrees,
not greater than about 2.8 degrees, not greater that about 2.6
degrees, not greater than about 2.4 degrees, not greater than about
2.2 degrees, or even not greater than about 2 degrees.
[0076] In accordance with an embodiment, other elements may engage
the tubular and assist with the change in position from the
substantially horizontal position to the substantially vertical
position. For example, the tubular lift system 130 can include a
stabilizer 111, which is generally illustrated in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B,
FIGS. 6A-6F, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 7B and described in more detail
herein. Notably, the stabilizer 111 can be configured to engage a
distal end region 262 of a tubular and reduce uncontrolled motion
(e.g., swinging motion) of the distal end region 262 of the tubular
during a change of position of the tubular from a substantially
horizontal position to the substantially vertical position. Aspects
of the stabilizer 111 are described in more detail herein.
[0077] The tubular lift system 130 can further include one or more
alignment elements. During movement of the tubular 308 from a
substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical
position the tubular 308 may be engaged by at least one alignment
element. FIGS. 6G-6I include schematic views of a portion of a
tubular lift system including alignment elements, and aspects of
the alignment elements are described in more detail herein.
[0078] As further illustrated in FIG. 3A, the system for
manipulating tubulars can include a mousehole assembly 113. FIGS.
3A-3F provide further illustrations the mousehole assembly and
operation of the mousehole assembly in accordance with an
embodiment. The mousehole assembly 113 can include a first
mousehole 340, a second mousehole 341 spaced apart from the first
mousehole 340, and a cavity 345 contained with the drill floor 103.
The mousehole assembly 113 can further include a first opening 343
defined by the first mousehole 340 and configured to accept a
tubular 308 therein. As further illustrated, the mousehole assembly
113 can include a second opening 344 associated with the second
mousehole 341 and configured to accept a different tubular therein.
In accordance with an embodiment, the first mousehole 340 can
define a first central axis 320 extending in the vertical direction
396 and through a centerpoint of the first opening 343 of the first
mousehole 340. Furthermore, the second mousehole 341 can define a
second central axis 330 extending in the vertical direction 396 and
through a centerpoint of the second opening 344 of the second
mousehole 341. In accordance with one aspect, the mousehole
assembly 113 can be configured to selectively move and align the
first central axis 320 or second central axis 330 with a
predetermined vertical axis to facilitate efficient loading of the
tubulars within the mousehole assembly 113.
[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the mousehole assembly 113 can
include a cavity 345 and a mousehole structure 346. The mousehole
structure 346 can contain the first mousehole 340 and second
mousehole 341. As will be appreciated, the cavity 345 within the
drill floor 103 may facilitate movement of the mousehole structure
346 relative to a position on the drill floor 103. In particular
instances, the mousehole structure 346 can be configured to move
within the cavity 345 to facilitate alignment of the first central
axis 320 of the first mousehole 340 or the second central axis 330
of the second mousehole 341 with a predetermined vertical axis. In
at least one embodiment, the utilization of a mousehole structure
346 can facilitate movement of the first mousehole 341 and second
mousehole 341 simultaneously with respect to each other. However,
it will be appreciated that other designs may be employed, wherein
the first mousehole 341 may be moved independently of the second
mousehole 341, including for example utilization of at least two
different mousehole structures associated with two distinct
mouseholes within a cavity.
[0080] The mousehole assembly 113, and more particularly, the
mousehole structure 346, can be configured to translate for a
particular distance within the cavity 345. As illustrated, the
cavity 345 can have a length designated CL. In certain instances,
the mousehole structure can be configured to be translated within
the cavity for a distance of at least about 0.1 (CL). In other
embodiments, the mousehole structure 346 can be configured to move
at least about 0.2 (CL), at least about 0.3 (CL), at least about
0.4 (CL), or even at least about 0.5 (CL). Still, in one
non-limiting embodiment, the mousehole structure may be configured
to move not greater than about 0.8 (CL), such as not greater than
about 0.7 (CL), or even not greater than about 0.6 (CL). In one
particular instance, the distance between the first central axis
320 of the first mousehole 340 and the second central axis 330 of
the second mousehole 341 can be the same as the distance the
mousehole structure 346 is translated within the cavity 345.
[0081] In accordance with an embodiment, the mousehole assembly 113
can include at least one actuator configured to move at least a
portion of the mousehole assembly relative to the drill floor 103.
The actuator can include at least one drive device as described in
embodiments herein, such as a motor, a hydraulic device, a
pneumatic device, a stepper motor, a servo motor, DC motor, AC
motor, and a combination thereof. As noted herein, it will be
appreciated that reference to moving at least a portion of the
mousehole assembly 113 can include independently moving any one of
the components of the mousehole assembly 113, including for
example, but not limited to, the first mousehole 340, the second
mousehole 341, and the mousehole structure 346. In the design of
the mousehole assembly 113 illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3F, it will be
appreciated that the at least one actuator can be configured to
translate the mousehole structure 346 from a first position 348 as
illustrated in FIG. 3A to a second position 351, as illustrated in
FIG. 3D. The manner in which the first and second mouseholes 340
and 341 are moved with respect to each other is not limited by the
illustrated embodiments herein.
[0082] As noted herein, the mousehole assembly 113 can be
configured to move relative to a surface in the work zone 131. In
particular, the mousehole assembly 113 may be configured to move
relative to the drill floor 103, and more particularly, may change
position relative to one or more components (e.g., the engagement
arm 109) of the tubular lift system 130. It will be appreciated
that reference herein to movement of at least a portion of the
mousehole assembly 113 can include movement in any of the
directions noted herein, including a lateral direction 398, a
horizontal direction 397, and a vertical direction 396. For
example, in one particular embodiment the relative movement of the
mousehole assembly 113 to a surface of the drill floor 103 can
include rotation, translation, and a combination thereof. While the
embodiments herein generally show translation of the mousehole
assembly 113 in a horizontal direction 397, it will be appreciated
that other designs may be utilized that allow for distinct movement
of a mousehole assembly in other directions.
[0083] As noted herein, the mousehole assembly 113 can be disposed
within the work zone 131. More particularly, the mousehole assembly
113 can be space away from an operator zone 132. Accordingly, the
mousehole assembly 113 may be configured to be operated by an
operator contained within the operator zone 132 and spaced away
from the work zone 131. In certain instances, the mousehole
assembly 113 may be controlled from the operator zone 132 via an
input module. Suitable input modules can include those noted
herein, including but not limited to, a device such as a control
column, a joystick, an analog device, a digital device, a
potentiometer, a variable resistor, a gyroscope, and a combination
thereof. In one particular embodiment, the mousehole assembly 113
may be an automated system, such that the controlled movement or
controlled sequence of operations of the mousehole assembly 113 can
be controlled by actuation of a single switch.
[0084] In particular embodiments, the cavity 345 may be configured
to have a cover 347. The cover 347 may underlie the drill floor
103. In other embodiments, the cover 347 may overlie the drill
floor 103. Furthermore, the cover 347 may be movable relative to
the mousehole structure 346, thus limiting any openings below the
drill floor 103 and limiting potential hazards within the work zone
131. In at least one embodiment, the cover 347 can be configured to
move between a first position and a second position. For example,
the cover 347 can be configured to be movable between a first
position and a second position relative to the first position and
second position of the mousehole structure 346.
[0085] As noted in FIG. 3A, the mousehole assembly 113 can be
provided in a first position 348, wherein the first central axis
320 of the first mousehole 340 can be aligned with a predetermined
vertical axis. In particular, in the first position 348 the first
central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340 defines the
predetermined vertical axis, such that the first central axis 320
and the predetermined vertical axis are the same. Moreover, in the
first position 348 of the mousehole structure 346, the second
central axis 330 can be displaced a distance away from the first
central axis 320, and thus, displaced a distance from the
predetermined vertical axis in the horizontal direction 397.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 3D, the mousehole assembly 113 is
illustrated as changed in position from the first position 348, as
illustrated in FIG. 3A, to a second position 351, as illustrated in
FIG. 3D. Moreover, as will be appreciated, in changing the position
of the mousehole structure 346, the position of the cavity 347 may
change. Notably, in the second position 351, the cavity 347 can be
disposed on the opposite side of the mousehole structure 346 as
compared to the position of the cavity 347 relative to the
mousehole structure 346 in the first position 348. Furthermore, in
the second position 351, the second central axis 330 of the second
mousehole 341 can be aligned with the predetermined vertical axis
to facilitate delivery of a second tubular 358 to the second
mousehole 341. More particularly, in the second position 351, the
second central axis 330 can define the predetermined vertical axis.
In particular, at the second position 351, the first central axis
320 of the first mousehole 340 can be displaced a distance from the
second central axis 330 of the second mousehole 341 and from the
predetermined vertical axis defined by the second central axis 330
of the second mousehole 341.
[0087] In accordance with an embodiment, the first mousehole 341
can define a first opening 343 having a first diameter. Moreover,
the second mousehole 341 can define a second opening 344 having a
second diameter. In accordance with an embodiment, the first
diameter of the first opening 343 and the second diameter of the
second opening 344 can be substantially similar. More particularly,
the size of the openings 343 and 344 can be essentially the
same.
[0088] The mousehole assembly 113 may be equipped with one or more
sensors or transducers to facilitate detection of certain
characteristics of the process and adaptation of the mousehole
assembly 113 for particular conditions. For example, in one
embodiment the mousehole assembly 113 can include at least one
sensor such that it is configured to adapt to tubulars of different
sizes, and more particularly, tubulars of different diameters. In
one embodiment, the first mousehole 340 can have at least one
mechanical device facilitating a change in the diameter of the
first opening 343 to facilitate reception of tubulars of different
diameters. For example, in one embodiment the first mousehole 340
can have a first opening position configured to receive a first
tubular of a first diameter and a second opening position
configured to accept a second tubular having a second diameter
different than the first diameter.
[0089] It will be appreciated that the second mousehole 341 can
utilize the same features noted above for the first mousehole 340.
In one aspect, the second mousehole 341 may include a sensor
configured to detect a tubular to be disposed therein, and more
particularly, configured to adapt to tubulars of different sizes.
In certain instances, the second mousehole 341 may be adaptable,
such that is has a first opening position configured for a first
tubular having a first diameter, and a second opening position
configured to receive a second tubular having a second diameter
different than the first diameter. As such, the second mousehole
341 may be capable of changing the size of the second opening 344
to facilitate receiving of tubulars of different diameters.
[0090] In one embodiment, the mousehole assembly 113 can include a
sensor that can be configured to detect an alignment between a
predetermined vertical axis and the first central axis 320 of the
first mousehole 340 or between the predetermined vertical axis and
the second central axis 330 of the second mousehole 341. It will be
appreciated that such a sensor can be placed on any of the
components of the mousehole assembly 113, including for example,
inside the first mousehole 340 or inside the second mousehole 341.
In certain instances, the mousehole assembly 113 can include a
sensor that is configured to detect an alignment between the
predetermined vertical axis and the first central axis 320 or the
second central axis 330, and further configured to change a
position of the first mousehole 340 or the second mousehole 341
based on a signal including alignment data. For example, the sensor
may detect a misalignment between the first central axis 320 and
the predetermined vertical axis and send a signal to facilitate
adjustment of the position of one or more of the components of the
mousehole assembly 113 (e.g. the mousehole structure 348) to
achieve suitable alignment between the first central axis 320 and
the predetermined vertical axis or the second central axis 330 and
the predetermined vertical axis.
[0091] Referring now to FIG. 3A-3F the process of manipulating
tubulars and utilizing the mousehole assembly 113 will be
described. At a first time, the first mousehole 340 can be at a
first position 348, as provided in FIG. 3A, and at a second time
different than the first time the first mousehole 340 can be at a
second position 351 different than the first position 348, as shown
in FIG. 3D. Likewise the same displacement of the first mousehole
340 at different times can apply for the second mousehole 341.
Accordingly, at a first time the first mousehole 340 can have a
first central axis 320 aligned with a predetermined vertical axis
associated with a longitudinal axis of a first tubular 308 in a
substantially vertical position. At the second time, referring to
FIG. 3D the first mousehole 340 can be displaced a distance from
the predetermined vertical axis and the second mousehole 341 can
have a second central axis 330 aligned with a predetermined
vertical axis associated with a longitudinal axis of the second
tubular 358 and configured to receive the second tubular 358 within
the second mousehole 341.
[0092] As illustrated, at a first time illustrated in FIG. 3A a
first tubular 308 can be in a substantially horizontal position and
in an initial position to be engaged by the engagement head 109.
Furthermore, the mousehole assembly 113 can be in a first position
348 having a first central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340
aligned with a predetermined vertical axis and in a position to
receive the first tubular 308.
[0093] At a second time as illustrated in FIG. 3B, the first
tubular 308 can be manipulated by the engagement head 109 and
lifted along the engagement head axis 310. Simultaneously while
lifting the first tubular 308 along the engagement head axis 310,
the engagement head can be rotating in the direction 316 to
facilitate a change in the position of the first tubular 308 from a
substantially horizontal position toward a substantially vertical
position. As further illustrated in FIG. 3C after changing the
position of the tubular 308 to a substantially vertical position,
the engagement head 109 can move vertically downward and the first
tubular 308, which is aligned with a predetermined vertical axis
that corresponds to a first central axis 320 of the first mousehole
340, can be delivered in a stabilized state to the first mousehole
340.
[0094] FIG. 3D includes a perspective view illustration of a
mousehole assembly and engagement head assembly in accordance with
an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 3D, after securing the first
tubular 308 within the first mousehole 340, a second tubular 358
can be taken from a substantially horizontal position and
manipulated into a substantially vertical position such that the
second tubular 358 has the longitudinal axis aligned with a
predetermined vertical axis. Notably, the mousehole structure 346
has changed to the second position 351. In the second position 351,
the second central axis 330 of the second mousehole 341 is aligned
with and defines the predetermined vertical axis. Accordingly, as
illustrated, the second tubular 358 can be delivered in a
stabilized state to the second mousehole 341.
[0095] FIG. 3E includes an illustration of a third tubular 368
being joined with the second tubular 358. It will be appreciated
that the third tubular 368 can be manipulated in the same manner as
the second tubular 358. Joining of the third tubular 368 and second
tubular 358 may be facilitated by the use of an iron roughneck 112.
Notably, as illustrated in FIG. 3E, the joining of the second
tubular 358 and third tubular 368 can be facilitated by utilization
of the mousehole assembly 113 in the second position 351. It will
further be appreciated that the joining of the second tubular 358
with the third tubular 368 can form a double 369.
[0096] As further illustrated in FIG. 3F, the double 369 may be
removed from the second mousehole 341 and the mousehole structure
346 can be shifted to the first position 348. As such, the central
axis 330 of the first mousehole 340 and the longitudinal axis of
the first tubular 308 can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of
the double 369 to facilitated joining of the double 369 with the
first tubular 308 and the formation of a stand. Joining of the
double 369 and the first tubular 308 may be facilitated by the use
of an iron roughneck 112.
Griphead
[0097] The following is reference to a griphead, which is a tool
that can be used in the tubular lift system 130 to facilitate
further manipulation of one or more tubulars (e.g., a stand).
Distinct from other tools described herein, the griphead may be
utilized in a racking procedure wherein a string of tubulars may be
placed on the rack 115 and made ready for use at the well center
188. Referring briefly to FIG. 1, a griphead 114 is generally shown
as a device suitable for grasping and manipulating tubulars or
strings of tubulars and moving the tubulars from the stand-building
area, to a rack 115, and further to the well center 188 to be used
in the active drilling operation.
[0098] FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C provide illustrations of a griphead in
accordance with an embodiment. In particular FIG. 5A includes a
perspective view illustration of a griphead in accordance with an
embodiment. FIG. 5B includes a top view of a griphead in accordance
with an embodiment. FIG. 5C includes a top view illustration of a
griphead in accordance with an embodiment.
[0099] The griphead 500 can include a housing 501 and a jaw
assembly 530 contained within the housing 501. The jaw assembly 530
can include an actuator box 502 contained within the housing 501.
Furthermore, the jaw assembly 530 can include a first arm 504
configured to be actuated between an open position and a closed
position by controlling a relative position of the first arm 504
with respect to a first bumper 505.
[0100] As further illustrated, the first arm 504 can be coupled to
the actuator box 502 via a fastener 510. Notably, in one
embodiment, the first arm 504 can be coupled to the actuator box
502 at the fastener 510 and configured to rotate around a portion
of the actuator box 502 in direction 521 or 531 at the fastener
510. Likewise, the second arm 514 can be coupled to the actuator
box 502 at a fastener 520. More particularly, the second arm 514
can be coupled to the actuator box 502 and configured to rotate
around a position of the actuator box 502 in direction 522 or 541
at the fastener 520. The fastener 510 can be configured to allow
rotational motion of the first arm 504 relative to the housing 501.
The fastener 520 can be configured to allow rotational motion of
the second arm 514 relative to the housing 501. The fasteners 510
and 520 can include components such as a hinge, a pin, and the
like.
[0101] As noted herein the jaw assembly 530 can include a first arm
504, wherein in the open position, the first arm 504 can be spaced
away from the first bumper 505 and in a closed position the first
arm 504 can be configured to be engaged with (i.e., abutting) the
first bumper 505. In certain instances, the engagement of the first
arm 504 with the first bumper 505 can facilitate movement of the
first arm 504 in direction 531 and a change of position of the
first arm 504 from an open position, as provided in FIG. 5B, to a
closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 5C. Movement of the first
arm 504 from an open position to a closed position can facilitate
grasping of a tubular 550 within the jaw assembly 530.
[0102] The grip head 500 can include a first bumper 505 which can
be affixed to the housing 501. As such, the first bumper 505 may be
a stationary article securely fixed in place on the housing 501
such that relative motion of the first arm 504 to the bumper 505 is
caused by the motion of the first arm 504 towards the stationary
first bumper 505. Still in an alternative embodiment, the first
bumper 505 may be configured to be moved between a first position
and second position. Notably, the first position of the first
bumper 505 can correspond to an open position of the first arm 504
and a second position of the first bumper 505 can correspond to a
closed position of the first arm 504.
[0103] The first arm 504 may include a first pin 509 extending from
an upper surface of the first arm and configured to be engaged in a
first slot within the housing 502. In accordance with an
embodiment, the first pin 509 can extend from an upper surface of
the first arm 504 and engaged with a first slot in the housing 501.
The first pin 509 can be configured to translate between a first
position and a second position within the first slot in the housing
501. In accordance with an embodiment, the first position of the
first pin 509 can correspond to an open position of the first arm
504 (see FIG. 5B) and a second position of the first pin 509 within
the first slot of the housing 501 can correspond to a closed
position of the first arm 504 (FIG. 5C).
[0104] The griphead 500 can further include a jaw assembly 530
including a second arm 514 configured to be moveable between an
open position and a closed position by controlling a position of
the second arm 514 relative to a second bumper 515. The second arm
514 that can be configured to be moved between an open position, as
generally illustrated in FIG. 5B, to a closed position, as
generally illustrated in FIG. 5C. In particular, in an open
position the second arm 514 can be spaced away from the second
bumper 515, while in a closed position the second arm 514 can be
engaged with and abutting the second bumper 515. In particular
instances, engagement of the second arm 514 with the second bumper
515 can facilitate rotational motion of the second arm 514 from the
open position to the closed position. The second bumper 515 may be
attached to the housing 501, and more particularly, may be fixably
attached to the housing 501. Movement of the second arm 514 from an
open position to a closed position can facilitate grasping of a
tubular 550 within the jaw assembly 530.
[0105] The second bumper 515 can be affixed to the housing 501, and
more particularly, may be a stationary article securely fixed in
place on the housing 501 such that relative motion of the second
arm 514 relative to the first bumper 515 is caused by the motion of
the second arm 514 towards the stationary second bumper 515. Still
in an alternative embodiment, the second bumper 515 may be
configured to be moved between a first position and second
position. Notably, the first position of the second bumper 515 can
correspond to an open position of the second arm 514 and a second
position of the second bumper 515 can correspond to a closed
position of the second arm 514.
[0106] Moreover, the second arm 514 may include a second pin 519
configured to be engaged within a second slot within the housing
501. In particular, the second arm 514 can include an upper surface
and a second pin 519 extending from the upper surface and
configured to engage a second slot in the housing 501. Notably, the
second pin may be configured to translate between a first position
and second position within the second slot of the housing 501. The
first position of the second pin 519 can correspond to an open
position of the second arm 514, while the second position of the
second pin 519 within the second slot can correspond to a closed
position of the second arm 514, such as shown in FIG. 5C. It will
be appreciated that changing of the second arm 514 from an open
position, such as shown in FIG. 5B, to a closed position, such as
shown in FIG. 5C can facilitate grasping of a tubular 550 within
the jaw assembly 530.
[0107] Movement of the jaw assembly 530 from an open position, such
as shown in FIG. 5B, to a closed position, such as shown in FIG.
5C, can be facilitated by translation of one of more components of
the griphead 500. In particular instances, the jaw assembly 530 can
be configured to be translated in a linear direction relative to
the housing 501. Moreover, translation in a linear direction of the
jaw assembly 530 relative to the housing 501 can facilitate
rotational movement of the first arm 504 and second arm 514. In
accordance with one particular embodiment, the first arm 504 can be
moved from an open position such as shown in FIG. 5B to a closed
position such as shown in FIG. 5C by movement of the jaw assembly
530 in a linear direction 561 relative to the housing 501. In one
aspect, the linear motion of the jaw assembly 530 can cause an
outer surface 552 of the first arm 504 to abut the first bumper 505
and urge rotational movement of the first arm 504 in the direction
531 around the fastener 510. Moreover, the linear motion of the jaw
assembly 530 in the direction 561 can cause an outer surface 753 of
the second arm 514 to abut the second bumper 515, urging rotational
movement of the second arm 514 in the direction 541 about the
fastener 520 and movement of the second arm 514 from an open
position as shown in FIG. 5B to a closed position as shown in FIG.
5C.
[0108] As further illustrated, the jaw assembly 530 can include an
actuator box 502 that can be configured to be translated in the
linear direction 561. In accordance with an embodiment, the
actuator box 502 can be configured to move between a first position
and a second position relative to the housing 501. Moreover, the
actuator box 502 can be configured to move between a first position
corresponding to an open position of the first arm 504 and second
arm 514 to a second position corresponding to a closed position of
the first arm 504 and second arm 514. Referring more particularly
to FIGS. 5B and 5C, movement of the actuator box 502 from a first
position to a second position in the direction 561 facilitates
engagement of the first arm 504 with the first bumper 505 and the
second arm 514 with the second bumper 515 and rotational motion of
the first arm 504 and second arm 514 from an open position to a
closed position. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the
linear movement of the actuator box 502 in the direction 561 may
also result in some linear movement of the first arm 504 and second
arm 514 in generally the same direction 561, until the first arm
504 and second arm 514 engage and abut the first bumper 505 and
second bumper 515, respectively.
[0109] Upon abutting the first bumper 505 with the first arm 504
the linear movement of the first arm 504 in the direction 561 may
be translated to additional rotational motion in direction 531.
Likewise, for the second arm 514 some linear translation of the
second arm 514 may occur until the outer surface 753 of the second
arm 514 abuts the second bumper 515
[0110] Movement of the jaw assembly 530, and more particularly, the
actuator box 502 may be facilitated by a drive device. One suitable
drive device can include a piston 508. The piston 508 can be
coupled to a central arm 503 disposed between the first arm 504 and
second arm 514. In one embodiment, the piston 508 can be fixably
attached to the housing 501 and intended to be held stationary with
respect to the housing 501. According to another embodiment, the
central arm 503 can be configured to engage a tubular 550 and the
gripping force on the tubular 550 may be controlled by a position
of the central arm 503 relative to the jaw assembly 530. The piston
508 can be configured to move between a first position and a second
position, which can be configured to facilitate motion of the first
arm 504 between the open position and closed position corresponding
to the first position and second position of the piston 508.
Moreover, movement of the piston 508 between the first position and
second position can be configured to facilitate motion of the
second arm 514 between the open position and closed position
corresponding to the first position and second position of the
piston 508.
[0111] In at least one embodiment, the piston 508 can be coupled to
a sensor configured to measure a force (or pressure) applied by the
piston to the actuator box 502. In certain instances, the sensor
can include a transducer that is configured to measure a pressure
applied by the piston 508 on the actuator box 502 and generate a
signal based on the pressure. The signal may be used to modify or
adjust the pressure applied by the piston 508 on the actuator box
502. It will be appreciated that the measurement and adjustment of
pressure by the piston 508 and the sensor on the actuator box 502
can facilitate adjustment of pressure applied by the jaw assembly
503 on a tubular 550. The adjustment of the pressure applied by the
piston 508 can be facilitated by the use of a logic device. The
logic device may be configured to adjust the pressure applied by
the piston based on the signal generated from the transducer.
Alternatively, a signal may be sent to an operator in operator zone
132 and the operator may select a suitable pressure to be applied
by the piston 508 based upon the signal.
[0112] The griphead 500 may further include a sensor configured to
measure at least one aspect of a tubular 550. For example, the
griphead 500 can include a sensor configured to measure a diameter
of a tubular 550. Measurement of an aspect of a tubular, including
for example a diameter of a tubular, may facilitate selection and
adjustment of a grip pressure applied by the jaw assembly 530 to
the tubular 550. That is, the grip pressure of the jaw assembly 530
applied on a tubular 550 can be adjusted based on the diameter of
the tubular 550.
[0113] In an alternative embodiment, a grip pressure applied by the
jaw assembly 530 on a tubular can be adjusted based upon the
pressure applied by the piston 508 to the actuator box 502 of the
jaw assembly 530. Moreover, the grip pressure of the jaw assembly
530 may be adjusted based on the pressure applied by the piston 508
to the central arm 503 in contact with the tubular 550. For
example, the greater the force applied by the piston 508, the
further the movement of the actuator box 502 in the direction 561,
and thus the greater the force applied on the first arm 504 and
second arm 514 to urge rotation to a closed position, and the
greater the force applied on the tubular 560.
[0114] The griphead 500 may be formed such that the jaw assembly
530 can be adapted to grasp tubular having various diameters. In
particular, the jaw assembly 530 may configured to securely hold
tubulars having a diameter of at least about 4 inches, such as at
least about 4.5 inches, at least about 5 inches, or even at least
about 6 inches. And still other embodiments, the jaw assembly 530
of the grip head 500 may be configured to securely grasp tubulars
having a diameter of not greater than about 25 inches, such as not
greater than about 20 inches, not greater than about 18 inches, not
greater than about 16 inches, not greater than about 14 inches, or
even not greater than about 12 inches.
[0115] As further illustrated, the first arm 504 can include a
first contact pad 507 configured to engage a portion of a tubular
550 in the closed position. The first contact pad can be coupled to
an interior surface 571 of the first arm 504. Furthermore, the
second arm 514 can have a second contact pad 517 coupled to an
interior 572 of the second arm 514. Moreover, the central arm 503
can include a central contact pad 506 coupled to an interior
surface 573 of the central arm 503. In accordance with a particular
embodiment, the first contact pad 507 can have a convex curvature
such that the exterior surface of the first contact pad 507 can be
bowed outward away from the interior surface 571 of the first arm
504. The curvature of the first contact pad 507 in an outward
manner can facilitate engagement of the tubular 550 on the first
contact pad 507 and limit corner or edge contacts with the tubular
and stress risers.
[0116] The second contact pad 517 can have a similar curvature to
the first contact pad 507. For example, the second contact pad 517
can have a convex curvature or an outer surface curving outwards
away from the interior surface 572 of the second arm 514, which may
limit point contacts between the second contact pad 517 and the
tubular 550. Furthermore, the central contact pad 506 can have a
similar shape with respect to the first contact pad 507 or the
second contact pad 517, including for example a convex curvature to
limit point contacts and stress risers when in contact with the
tubular 550.
[0117] As illustrated in FIG. 5C the first contact pad 507, second
contact pad 517, and central contact pad 506 can be configured to
contact the tubular 550 at particular locations. In accordance with
an embodiment, the contact points, wherein the contact pads 507,
517, and 506 are in contact with the tubular 550 are spaced apart
from each other by a central angle. For example, the central angle
581 can define an angle between a contact point of the central
contact pad 506 and first contact pad 507 with the tubular 550,
based on a centerpoint of the tubular as viewed in cross-section.
Furthermore, the central angle 582 defines an angle between a
contact point of the central contact pad 506 with the tubular 550
and a contact point of the second contact pad 517 with the tubular
550. In accordance with embodiment, the contact points can be
spaced apart from each other by an angle having a value of at least
about 90 degrees relative to the center of the tubular 550. In
other embodiments, the central angle 581 or 582 can be greater,
such as at least about 95 degrees, at least about 98 degrees, at
least about 100 degrees, at least about 105 degrees, and the like.
In other non-limiting embodiments, the central angle 581 or 582 can
be not greater than about 170 degrees, or even not greater than
about 160 degrees. Control of the central angle and location of
contact points can facilitate suitable grip pressure to securely
hold tubulars 550 having a variety of diameters within the jaw
assembly 530.
[0118] In accordance with another aspect, the grip head 500 may
utilize a maintenance kit for maintenance and replacement of
certain portions of the griphead 500. In particular, a kit for
maintenance can include replacement contact pads for any of the
contact pads of the griphead 500. For example the maintenance kit
may include at least one of a first contact pad 507 for a first arm
504, a second contact pad 517 for a second arm 514, and a central
contact pad 704 for a central arm 503. It will be appreciated that
the maintenance kit may sell each of the contact pads individually
or together.
System and Method for Manipulating Tubulars of the Subterranean
Operations
[0119] FIGS. 6A-6K provide schematic view illustrations of a
sequence for handling tubulars, and in particular, changing a
position of a tubular from a substantially horizontal position to a
substantially vertical position to facilitate a stand-building
operation using the tubular lift system of the embodiments herein.
FIG. 6A includes a schematic illustration of a first sequence
wherein a first tubular 605 is moved to an end of a shunter 688.
The first tubular 605 can be moved to the end of the shunter 688
and over a portion of the stabilizer 111. In particular, the first
tubular 605 can be moved to the end of the shunter 688 over the
stabilizer 111 and over a receiving surface 604 of the stabilizer
111. After the first tubular 605 is moved to the end of shunter 688
and the proximal end region 252 of the first tubular 605 is
adjacent to the receiving surface 604, the stabilizer 111 can be
moved in a direction 607 to provide the first tubular 605 to an
initial position 670.
[0120] In the initial position, the proximal end region 252 can be
placed at an engagement head axis 310, such that the proximal end
region 252 of the first tubular 605 is configured to be engaged by
the engagement head 109. Notably, the movement of the stabilizer
111 can be facilitated by at least one hinged axis 603 facilitating
motion of the stabilizer 111 in the direction 607 and lifting the
tubular to the initial position 670. It will be appreciated that in
moving the first tubular 605 from the end of the shunter 688 to the
initial position 670, wherein the proximal end region 252 is placed
on an engagement head axis 310, one or more elements of the pipe
pusher 688 may be used to engage and push a distal end of the first
tubular 605 over the receiving surface 604 of the stabilizer
111.
[0121] FIG. 6B includes a schematic view of a second sequence for
operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment.
As illustrated, at the second sequence, the engagement head 109 of
the engagement head assembly 311 can be engaged with the proximal
end region 252 of the first tubular 605. The engagement head 109
can travel in a vertical direction 396 along the engagement head
axis 310 to lift the tubular from the substantially horizontal
position of the initial position 670 toward a substantially
vertical position. During lifting of the first tubular 605 in the
vertical direction 396, the engagement head 109 may be configured
to simultaneously rotate in a direction 611 to facilitate the
change of position of the first tubular 605 from a substantially
horizontal position to a substantially vertical position.
[0122] FIG. 6C includes a schematic view illustration of a third
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. As illustrated, the first tubular 605 can be lifted by
the engagement head 109 along the engagement head axis 310.
Furthermore, during vertical lifting of the first tubular 605, the
stabilizer 111 can maintain contact with a distal end region 262 of
the first tubular 605 to limit and substantially eliminate
uncontrolled motion of the distal end region 262 of the first
tubular 605 during a change of position from the substantially
horizontal position to the substantially vertical position. In
order to facilitate maintaining contact of the distal end region
622 of the first tubular 605 with the stabilizer 111, the
stabilizer 111 can be configured for movement in a first direction
621, and thereafter, movement in a second direction 622 to
facilitate delivery of the tubular to the substantially vertical
position with the predetermined vertical axis which may coincide
with a central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340. As will be
appreciated motion of the stabilizer 111 can be facilitated by one
or more drives devices, which may include, for example, a hydraulic
device to facilitate motion of the stabilizer 111 in multiple
directions.
[0123] As noted herein, the stabilizer 111 can have particular
features that may be utilized to properly position the distal end
region 262 of the first tubular 605 on the stabilizer 111 and
maintain control of the distal end region 262 of the tubular during
the change in position of the first tubular 605 from the
substantially horizontal position to the substantially vertical
position. FIG. 7A includes an illustration of a portion of a
stabilizer in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 7B includes an
illustration of a stabilizer engaging a tubular in accordance with
an embodiment. The stabilizer 111 can be configured to engage a
distal end region 262 of a tubular and reduce uncontrolled motion
(e.g., swinging motion) of the distal end region 262 of the first
tubular 605, and in particular, can eliminate the need for human
interaction with the work zone 131 to stabilize the distal end
region 262 of the first tubular 605. In particular instances, the
stabilizer 111 can be contained within the work zone 131 and spaced
away from an operator zone 132. Accordingly, the stabilizer 111 may
be controlled by an operator within the operator zone 132. It will
be appreciated that operation of the stabilizer 111 may be a
remote-controlled process utilizing any one of the input modules
noted above. Alternatively, the stabilizer 111 may be operated as
an automated process requiring little to no continual input from an
operator to conduct operations, and rather, may be operated by
actuation of a single switch.
[0124] In accordance with an embodiment, the stabilizer 111 can be
configured to engage at least a portion of the first tubular 605 in
the substantially horizontal position and facilitate movement of
the first tubular 605 to the initial position 670. Moreover, as
noted in FIG. 6C, the stabilizer 111 can be configured for movement
in one direction along, including for example, the vertical
direction 396, the lateral direction 398, or the horizontal
direction 397, and any combination thereof. In particular
instances, the stabilizer 111 can be configured for complex
movement in at least two directions. The stabilizer 111 may be
capable of simultaneous movement in multiple directions. For
example, the stabilizer 111 may be configured for movement in the
direction 621 and the direction 622 to facilitate lifting and
translation of the first tubular 605 in concert with the lifting
and rotating motion of the engagement head 109.
[0125] According to one aspect, the stabilizer 111 can include a
receiving surface 701 configured to engage at least a portion of a
first tubular 605. In particular instances, the receiving surface
701 can include a contour having a complementary shape relative to
a shape or a portion of a shape of the first tubular 605. For
example, the receiving surface 701 may have an arcuate contour
configured to engage at least a portion of an exterior surface of
the first tubular 605. In more particular instances, the receiving
surface 701 of the stabilizer 111 may have a substantially concave
curvature to engage at least a portion of the exterior surface of
the first tubular 605 therein.
[0126] In another aspect, at least a portion of the stabilizer 111
may include a roller 604 configured to rotate in the direction 705
as the tubular translates in a direction 709 over a surface of the
roller. For example, the roller 604 can include the receiving
surface 701 configured to engage a portion of the first tubular
605, such that upon translation of the tubular over the receiving
surface the roller 604 can be configured to rotate and smoothly
translate the first tubular 605 over the receiving surface 701.
[0127] In at least one embodiment, the stabilizer 111 can further
include a stop bar 702. The stop bar 702 can be configured to
engage a portion of the tubular and maintain contact between the
first tubular 605 and the receiving surface 701 of the stabilizer
111, and reduce swinging motion of the first tubular 605 away from
the receiving surface 701 of the stabilizer 111. In particular
instances, the first tubular 605 may be disposed between a stop bar
702 and the receiving surface 701 of the stabilizer 111 to reduce
uncontrolled motion of a distal end region 262 of the first tubular
605 during a change of position of the tubular from a substantial
horizontal position to a substantial vertical position. In at least
one embodiment, the stop bar 702 of the stabilizer 111 can include
a latch that may be actuated by a switch. The switch can be
actuated by a sensor configured to detect the presence and location
of the first tubular 605 on the stabilizer 111. Alternatively, the
switch can be remote-controlled by an operator in the operator zone
132.
[0128] It will be appreciated that in certain instances the stop
bar 702 can be configured to be actuated between an open position
and a closed position, generally in the direction 703. In the open
position, the stop bar 702 can be spaced away from a surface of the
first tubular 605, and in the closed position, such as shown in
FIGS. 7A and 7B, the stop bar 702 can be configured to be in
contact with a surface of the first tubular 605. Accordingly, in
the closed position the stop bar 702 may be in contact with the
surface of the first tubular 605 and the first tubular 605 may be
disposed between a surface of the stop bar 702 and a surface of the
receiving surface 901 of the stabilizer 111.
[0129] As further illustrated, in one embodiment, the stop bar 702
may include a tab 706 extending from a distal end of the stop bar
702 and configured to facilitate engagement of the first tubular
605 with the receiving surface 701. In one embodiment, the tab 706
can be configured for maintaining the position of the first tubular
605 with the receiving surface 701.
[0130] In at least one embodiment, during the motion of the
stabilizer in direction 621 and/or 622 the stop bar 702 may be
utilized to dispose the proximal end region 262 of the first
tubular 605 between the stop bar 702 and receiving surface 701 of
the stabilizer 111 to facilitate a smooth transition of the first
tubular 605 from a substantially horizontal position to a
substantially vertical position and a stabilized state such that
the angular variation of the tubular with respect to the
predetermined vertical axis is limited.
[0131] In accordance with one embodiment, during the change of
position of the first tubular 605 from a substantially horizontal
position to a substantially vertical position a rotational motion
of the engagement head 109 and a motion of the stabilizer 111 in
one or more directions can be coordinated relative to each other to
limit the uncontrolled motion (e.g., swinging of the distal end
region 262 of the tubular). For example, in one embodiment during
the change of position of the first tubular 605 from a
substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical
position, a vertical motion of the engagement head 109 and motion
of the stabilizer 111 can be coordinated relative to each other to
limit uncontrolled motion of the first tubular 605. For example,
the rate of vertical lift in the direction 396 of the engagement
head 109 may be coordinated with the rate of change in direction of
the stabilizer in the direction 621 and/or 622 to limit
uncontrolled motion of the distal end region 262 of the first
tubular 605. Furthermore, it will be appreciate that in addition,
the rotational motion of the engagement head 109 in the direction
811 may be controlled relative to the motion of the stabilizer 111
in direction 621 and/or 622 to limit uncontrolled motion of the
distal end region 262 of the first tubular 605. For example, the
rate of rotation may be managed with respect to the rate of the
change direction of the stabilizer 111 in the direction 621 and/or
622.
[0132] In one embodiment, a method of managing and controlling the
rate of movement in one or more directions between the engagement
head 109 and stabilizer 111 can include one or more sensors
configured to measure the rate of movement of the engagement head
109 and/or stabilizer 111. Furthermore, the system may utilize one
or more logic circuits to adapt the rate of movement of the
engagement head 109 and stabilizer 111 with respect to each other
based on the measured rates of movement by the sensors. The system
may be configured to change the rate of movement of the engagement
head 109 and/or stabilizer 111 relative to each other to facilitate
a smooth transition and limit uncontrolled motion of the distal end
of the first tubular 605 during the change in position of the first
tubular 605 from the substantially horizontal position to the
substantially vertical position.
[0133] As further illustrated in FIG. 6C, after placing the first
tubular 605 in a substantially vertical position 625, wherein the
longitudinal axis of the first tubular 605 is substantially aligned
with a predetermined vertical axis corresponding to a central axis
320 of the first mousehole 340, the first tubular 605 may be
translated vertically downward in direction 626 to place the first
tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340. After securing the first
tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340, the components including
the engagement head 109 and stabilizer 111, may return to the
starting positions as shown in FIG. 6A.
[0134] FIG. 6D includes a schematic illustration of a fourth
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. Notably, FIG. 6D is substantially similar to FIG. 6A,
however a portion of the mousehole assembly 113 has changed
position relative to the position illustrated in FIG. 6A. Notably,
the mousehole assembly 113 has engaged a drive device 608 to shift
a position of the first mousehole 340 and second mousehole 341
relative to the position of the engagement head 109 and the
engagement head axis 310. More particularly, the second mousehole
341 has a central axis 330 that is aligned with a predetermined
vertical axis to facilitate delivery of a second tubular 655 to the
second mousehole 341.
[0135] The second tubular 655 can be delivered to the second
mousehole 341 using the same sequence of processes used to deliver
the first tubular 605 to the first mousehole 340 as illustrated in
FIG. 6A-6C.
[0136] FIG. 6E includes a schematic illustration of a fifth
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. As illustrated, a third tubular 665 is provided in a
substantially vertical position and aligned with the second tubular
655 in accordance with an embodiment. The movement of the third
tubular 665 can be completed using the same sequence of processes
as provided in FIGS. 6A-6C. As illustrated in FIG. 6E the third
tubular 665 can have a longitudinal axis aligned with the
longitudinal axis of the second tubular 655. Furthermore, it will
be appreciated that a second rabbit associated with the second
mousehole 341 may be actuated to adjust the exposure length of the
second tubular 655 such that the second tubular 655 is at a
suitable height above the drill floor 103 to facilitate use of the
iron roughneck 112.
[0137] FIG. 6F includes a schematic illustration of a sixth
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. As illustrated, after aligning the third tubular 665
and the second tubular 655 with each other, the tubulars 665 and
655 may be joined together using an iron roughneck 112. Notably,
the third tubular 665 may be maintained in a stabilized state
during the joining via the engagement head 109.
[0138] FIG. 6G includes a schematic illustration of a seventh
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. As illustrated, third tubular 665 and the second
tubular 655 have been joined to form a double 669. After joining
the third tubular 665 with the second tubular 655 to form the
double 669, the engagement head 109 may lift the double 669 from
the second mousehole 341 and align it with the first tubular 605 in
the first mousehole 340.
[0139] Notably, during the lifting of the double 669 from the
second mousehole 341 a portion of the mousehole assembly 113 may
change position to facilitate aligning the longitudinal axis of
double 669 with the longitudinal axis of the first tubular 605 and
the central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340. Alignment between
the double 669 and the first tubular 605 can facilitate joining of
the double 869 with the first tubular 605. As such, at least a
portion of the mousehole assembly 113 may be returned to an
original position as illustrated in FIG. 6A.
[0140] As further illustrated, the system can include one of more
alignment elements 671 and 672 configured to engage a portion of
the double 669 or one or the tubulars of the double 669 to
facilitate maintaining a desired stabilized state and low angular
variation with respect to a predetermined vertical axis. The use of
the alignment elements 671 and 672 can facilitate maintaining a
small angular variation of the tubular with respect to the
predetermined vertical axis during translation of the tubular along
the predetermined vertical axis.
[0141] In at least one embodiment, the alignment element 671 can
include a roller configured to rotate in response to translation of
the tubular over a surface of the roller. It will be appreciated
that the system may utilize more than one alignment element, and
particularly more than one alignment element in the form or
rollers, such as illustrated in FIG. 6G. For example, in at least
one embodiment, the tubular (e.g., the double 669) may be disposed
between two or more alignment elements 671 and 672 in the form of
rollers configured to maintain the substantially vertical position
of the tubular and furthermore provide a stabilized state to the
tubular while it is being translated along the predetermined
vertical axis and delivered to the mousehole assembly 113.
Moreover, in one embodiment, the alignment element 671 can include
a dampening member 673, such as a spring, configured to absorb
shocks and dampen forces that could be transferred to the tubular
and cause misalignment between the tubular and the predetermined
vertical axis. As further illustrated, the alignment element 672
may also include a dampening member 674, such as a spring
configured to absorb shocks and dampen forces that could be
transferred to the tubular and cause misalignment between the
tubular and the predetermined vertical axis.
[0142] In certain instances, at least one of the alignment elements
671 and 672 may be movable between a first position and a second
position. For example, in the first position the alignment element
671 and/or 672 may be disengaged with the surface of the tubular
(i.e., the double 669) such that there is distance between the
surface of the alignment element and an exterior surface of the
tubular, as shown, for example in FIG. 6J. However, in a second
position, the alignment element 871 and/or 872 may be moved into
contact with the exterior surface of the tubular to engage and
maintain the position of the tubular in the substantially vertical
position.
[0143] FIG. 6H includes a schematic illustration of an eighth
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. As illustrated, the process can include joining of the
double 669 with the first tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340 to
form a stand 675. The process can further include initiating the
removal of the stand 675 from the first mousehole 340 by
translation of the engagement head 109 in the vertical direction
396 to lift the stand 675 from the mousehole assembly 113.
[0144] FIG. 6I includes a schematic illustration of a ninth
sequence for operating a tubular lift system in accordance with an
embodiment. In particular, the ninth sequence can include use of a
griphead 500 configured to engage a portion of the stand 675 from
the engagement head 109. The griphead 500 may be configured to
engage the stand 675 and facilitate lifting the stand 675 in the
vertical direction 396 to a storage location above the drill floor
103.
[0145] FIG. 6J includes a schematic illustration of a tenth
sequence for forming a stand of tubulars in accordance with an
embodiment. In particular, the tenth sequence can include
disengagement of the alignment elements 671 and 672 from the stand
675 after the griphead 500 has securely engaged and grasped the
stand 675.
[0146] FIG. 6K includes a schematic illustration of an eleventh
sequence for forming a stand of tubulars in accordance with an
embodiment. In particular, the eleventh sequence can include
translation of the stand 675 by the griphead 500 to a racker 115,
which may be a storage location for the stand 675 prior to the
stand being transported to the well center 188 to be deployed in
the drilling operation.
[0147] It will be appreciated that the griphead 500 may facilitate
direct delivery of the stand to the well center 188 for
incorporation into the drilling operation. Any of the components
and systems described herein can be remotely operated by an
operator positioned outside of the work zone 131 as described
herein. Moreover, any of the components, systems, or processes
herein can be automated and configured to conduct one or more
functions by actuation of a single switch. It will also be
appreciated that a fewer or greater number of sequences may be used
in the process of stand-building. Alternative sequences and
combinations of processes or components may be utilized without
deviating from the embodiments herein.
[0148] In at least one embodiment, the process of building a stand
of tubulars including at least three tubular joined together can be
completed in an average stand-building time that is at least about
10% less than an average stand-building time of conventional
equipment.
[0149] The embodiments of the present application represent a
departure from the state of the art. Notably, the embodiments
herein demonstrate a new combination of components, systems, and
processes facilitating improved manipulation of tubulars in
stand-building operations, particularly on jack-up rigs and other
platforms having limited space. Unlike prior art methods of
manipulating tubulars that rely on heavy, large, and expensive HTV
arms, which have known limits with respect to manipulating a
tubular with low angular variation the present embodiments have
clear advantages in terms of safety, weight, cost, speed, and size.
Moreover, in comparison to conventional systems utilizing
roughnecks or direct-operated (i.e., manned) tools to secure
swinging tubulars, the embodiments herein include a combination of
features that facilitate safe and efficient handling of tubulars.
The combination of features can include, but is not limited to, the
features of the engagement head, the features of the stabilizer,
the features of the alignment elements, the features of the
mousehole assembly, and the combination of the features working in
concert.
[0150] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising,"
"includes," "including," "has," "having," or any other variation
thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For
example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a
list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features
but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to
such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless
expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive-or
and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is
satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B
is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is
true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).
[0151] The use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe elements and
components described herein. This is done merely for convenience
and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This
description should be read to include one or at least one and the
singular also includes the plural, or vice versa, unless it is
clear that it is meant otherwise.
[0152] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The
materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not
intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many
details regarding specific materials and processing acts are
conventional and may be found in textbooks and other sources within
the scintillation and radiation detection arts.
[0153] The above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered
illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are
intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other
embodiments, which fall within the true scope of the present
invention. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of
the present invention is to be determined by the broadest
permissible interpretation of the following claims and their
equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the
foregoing detailed description.
[0154] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with
Patent Law and is submitted with the understanding that it will not
be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description of the Drawings,
various features may be grouped together or described in a single
embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This
disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that
the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly
recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect,
inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all features
of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are
incorporated into the Detailed Description of the Drawings, with
each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed
subject matter.
* * * * *