Rotary Drive For A Relatively Advancing Tool (e.g., Rotary Table) Patents (Class 175/195)
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Patent number: 11125072Abstract: Disclosed are a synchronous movement apparatus of tracks in a wellbore inspection system and a control method thereof. The synchronous movement apparatus includes an upper moving track, a lower moving track, an upper wire rope moving device, a lower wire rope moving device, and a control device; the upper moving track and the lower moving track are correspondingly embedded into an inner wall of a wellbore, and the upper moving track is located above the lower moving track; the upper wire rope moving device is fitted in the upper moving track, and the lower wire rope moving device is fitted in the lower moving track; the upper moving track and the lower moving track have the same structure and each include a track body. A rolling face is arranged on the track body, and grooves are evenly distributed on the rolling face along the extending direction of the track body.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2019Date of Patent: September 21, 2021Assignee: China University of Mining and TechnologyInventors: Gongbo Zhou, Chaoquan Tang, Zhencai Zhu, Gang Zhang, Zhenzhi He, Hongwei Tang, Wei Li, Fan Jiang
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Patent number: 10890033Abstract: A Kelly bar apparatus includes a plurality of concentric tubes in a telescoping arrangement having either a locking feature provided by a series of keys and notches that interlock selectively, or one or more blocking tabs that prevent complete telescopic extension of at least one of the tubes when the tubes and associated keys are in an unlocked position, or both. Related subterranean bore drilling systems and drilling methods are also described.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2018Date of Patent: January 12, 2021Assignee: Watson, IncorporatedInventors: Mark Allan Crosby, Douglas Allan Watson
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Patent number: 10753159Abstract: A progressive cavity device including an articulated coupling for converting the complex motion of a rotor into simple rotation. The coupling may include two shafts coupled to one another by joint assemblies connected to opposite ends of an intermediate shaft. The joint assemblies may include interleaved male and female spline portions and an elastomer filling the spaces between the male and female splines. The elastomer may deflect under load to allow the male and female splines to move relative to each other to allow the assembly to react to shaft misalignments. To limit elastomer bulging from the ends of the joint in response to shaft movement, the bulge area may be capped so that the elastomer cannot bulge outward and become extremely stiff.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2019Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Inventor: Russell D. Ide
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Patent number: 10738553Abstract: Provided is a device for converting rotary motion into oscillatory axial motion, which device comprises: (a) a rotation element (1); (b) a base element (2); and (c) one or more bearings (3) for facilitating rotary motion of the rotation element relative to the base element; wherein the rotation element and/or the base element comprise one or more raised portions (4) and/or one or more lowered portions (5) over which portions the one or more bearings (3) pass in order to periodically increase and decrease axial distance between the rotation element (1) and the base element (2) as rotation occurs, thereby imparting an oscillatory axial motion to the rotation element (1) relative to the base element (2).Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2016Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: ITI Scotland LimitedInventors: Marian Wiercigroch, Marcin Kapitaniak, Seyed Vahid Vaziri Hamaneh, Nina Yari
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Patent number: 10626690Abstract: A fill up tool includes a mandrel; a primary sealing member disposed around the mandrel; and a selectively operable secondary sealing member activated by rotation of the mandrel. In another embodiment, the selectively operable secondary sealing member is activated using hydraulic pressure.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2017Date of Patent: April 21, 2020Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLCInventors: Jimmy Duane Wiens, Yury P. Gutsu, Benson Thomas, Karsten Heidecke, Jim Hollingsworth, Doyle Fredric Boutwell, Jr., Rodney Stephens, Russell W. Thompson, Patrick James Zimmerman
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Patent number: 10066664Abstract: Disclosed is a cooling and lubricating system (and method of use) for an RCD bearing/seal assembly comprising an internal conduit for directing fresh oil into the lower end of the bearing assembly where it can then progress upwardly through the bearing assembly and seals to provide cooling and lubrication to the internal bearings and rotary seals. The RCD system employs a small footprint oiler to deliver, via pressurized air, the oil to the RCD. Also disclosed is an RCD bearing assembly outfitted with the oil channel conduits for directing oil through the RCD bearing assembly to cool and lubricate the seals and bearings.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2015Date of Patent: September 4, 2018Inventor: James Richard Cooper
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Patent number: 9284811Abstract: A rotating flow head has a lubricated bearing pack for isolating bearing elements from wellbore fluids under pressure. The bearing pack, having a rotating cylindrical sleeve, bearing elements and two seal assemblies, is secured within an assembly bore of a stationary housing by a retainer plate accepting a plurality of lag bolts circumferentially spaced around a top portion of the stationary housing. Each of the seal assemblies have at least one sealing element having a body, an annular cavity, an inner sealing surface, and a flange that distends radially outwardly when axially compressed. A loading ring fit to the annular cavity urges the inner sealing surface radially inwardly to sealingly engage the rotating cylindrical sleeve. The inner sealing surface further comprises a first and second sealing surface and a debris channel therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2009Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: George James Michaud, Lawrence Gerald Cyr
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Patent number: 9074421Abstract: A top drive guide system comprising first and second rail sections axially aligned to form a top drive guide rail. A locking member is coupled to the first rail section and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A locking surface is disposed on the second rail section and is operable to engage the locking member when the locking member is in the locked position. An actuator is coupled to the locking member and is operable to move the locking member from the locked position to the unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2012Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Assignee: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.Inventors: Adrian Marica, Mihai Ionescu
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Patent number: 8988030Abstract: This disclosure is drawn to methods, systems, devices and/or apparatus related to power control in applications over long cables. Specifically, the disclosed methods, systems, devices and/or apparatus relate to power control that considers the maximum power available at the end of a long cable (or from a battery) to a load over a broad range of load conditions. Some example systems may include a power supply located at the Earth's surface and a power converter coupled to the power supply via a cable having a first end coupled to the power supply and a second end coupled to the power converter. Some example power converters may be configured to measure the power being consumed by the electrical load in the well, and adjust operating parameter(s) of the electrical load based, at least in part, on the maximum power available at the second end of the cable.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ramon Hernandez Marti, John Parry, Dudi Rendusara
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Publication number: 20150048705Abstract: A magnetic drive device may comprise a stator comprising a plurality of windings for generating a first number of magnetic pole pairs and a rotor comprising a plurality of permanent magnets for generating a second number of magnetic pole pairs that differs from the first number of magnetic pole pairs. The magnetic drive device may further comprise a plurality of free-spinning interpole elements disposed within an air gap between the stator and the rotor. The interpole elements may produce a magnetomotive force and harmonically couple the magnetic pole pairs of the stator with the magnet pole pairs of the rotor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2013Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventors: Kent R. Davey, David Cardellini, Cliff A. Swiontek
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Publication number: 20150027688Abstract: A system and method is provided for a low profile rotating control device (LP-RCD) and its housing mounted on or integral with an annular blowout preventer seal, casing, or other housing. The LP-RCD and LP-RCD housing can fit within a limited space available on drilling rigs. An embodiment allows a LP-RCD to be removably disposed with a LP-RCD housing by rotating a bearing assembly rotating plate. A sealing element may be removably disposed with the LP-RCD bearing assembly by rotating a seal retainer ring. Alternatively, a sealing element may be removably disposed with the LP-RCD bearing assembly with a seal support member threadedly attached with the LP-RCD bearing assembly. The seal support member may be locked in position with a seal locking ring removably attached with threads with the LP-RCD bearing assembly over the seal support member. Spaced apart accumulators may be disposed radially outward of the bearings in the bearing assembly to provide self lubrication to the bearings.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan P. Sokol, Danny W. Wagoner, Thomas F. Bailey, Aristeo Rios, III, James W. Chambers, Don M. Hannegan
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Publication number: 20150027782Abstract: A top drive includes a hydraulic motor in fluid communication with first inlet for a supply of pressurized drilling fluid. A drill string adapter is mechanically coupled to the hydraulic motor and is in fluid communication with the first inlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2013Publication date: January 29, 2015Applicant: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.Inventors: James William WEIR, Dean A. Bennett
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Patent number: 8931579Abstract: In some embodiments, apparatus and systems, as well as methods, may operate to couple a stator to a borehole, and to move a rotor relative to the stator to generate electrical current to power a borehole tool.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2005Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Billy Bankston, Clive Menezes
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Publication number: 20140262521Abstract: A top drive system is provided. In one embodiment, a top drive includes a drive stem and a load nut with mating threaded surfaces that enable the drive stem to be threaded through the load nut and to support weight of a connected drill string via the load nut. One or both of the mating threaded surfaces may have a threadform with one or more undercut thread roots. Additionally, a portion of the mating threaded surfaces, such as thread roots of the drive stem, can be shot-peened. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: CAMERON RIG SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Richard O. Bradley, Michael R. Netecke
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Publication number: 20140238749Abstract: The invention relates to a drilling tool for earth drilling with a drill rod element which can be connected to a rotary drive and can be driven in a rotating manner about a drilling axis, a frame-like housing and at least one removal tooth which is supported in a radially adjustable manner in the housing between a retracted position in the housing and an operating position, in which the at least one removal tooth projects radially from the housing. Furthermore, on the drill rod element in the housing a transmission mechanism is arranged, through which a stroke and/or rotational movement of the drill rod element can be translated into a radial movement for radial adjustment of the at least one removal tooth.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: BAUER SPEZIALTIEFBAU GMBHInventors: Manfred SCHWEIGER, Sandor MAJOR, Andreas STIMPFLE-ZIEGLER
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Publication number: 20140216820Abstract: A drilling table for a drilling rig has an accommodation sleeve that can be rotated via a rotational drive for accommodation of a Kelly rod provided with driving contours. Coupling elements are disposed on the inside wall of the accommodation sleeve for engagement into the driving contours of the Kelly rod for transfer of torque and bias forces. Broken-out areas are introduced into the accommodation sleeve, through which areas the coupling elements that can be inserted from the outside are passed, to project into the sleeve interior. A drilling rig has such a drilling table.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: ABI Anlagentechnik-Baumaschinen-Industriebedarf Maschinenfabrik und Vertriebsgesellschaft mbHInventors: Christian HEICHEL, Holger BUBE
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Publication number: 20140174829Abstract: A device for a top drive drilling machine, in which a drive shaft, which is arranged for releasable connection to a drive and to a first end portion of a drill pipe, is provided with a centre bore extending therethrough and arranged for fluid communication between the drilling mud plant and a fluid bore in the drill pipe. First and second releasable, drive-shaft-surrounding, respectively drill-string-surrounding, pressure seals and a valve which is arranged to provide, in an open position, a passage for the drill pipe or drive shaft, form a first and a second chamber. A drilling mud inlet is arranged for the second chamber and is arranged for fluid communication between the drilling mud plant and connection housing. A method for the continuous supply of drilling mud to a drill string by the use of the drilling machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Inventor: Per A. Vatne
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Patent number: 8726984Abstract: A rotary table device is provided with means arranged for suspension of a pipe string. The rotary table comprises a rotary ring arranged rotatably about the central axis of the rotary table. The rotary ring is formed by two or more ring sections, each connected to a system comprising a bearing housing section rotatable relative to a base section, a bearing housing groove being formed in a base contact surface on the bearing housing section and a corresponding base groove being formed in an opposing bearing housing surface in the base section. The grooves form a curve-shaped track for a roller body and the groove has a curvature center coinciding with the central axis of the rotary table. The rolling diameter of the roller body exceeds the collective depth of said grooves, and a channel connecting the end portions of the bearing housing groove is formed in the bearing housing section.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2011Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: West Drilling Products ASInventors: Helge Krohn, Ove Kalvatn, Mads Grinrød, Odd B. Skjaerseth
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Patent number: 8660760Abstract: A method for using a mining vehicle, arrangement in a mine, rock drilling rig, and mining vehicle. Tasks according to a work cycle are performed at work sites with a mining work device in a mining vehicle. At the work site, the vehicle is connected to an external electrical network. An energy storage of the vehicle is charged during the work cycle defined by a excavation plan, when the vehicle is at a work site. After the work cycle is done, electricity obtained from the energy storage is used in a transfer drive.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2009Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Sandvik Mining and Construction OyInventors: Juha Piipponen, Jukka Osara, Jarno Kuittinen, Mikko Kouvo
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Publication number: 20140034385Abstract: A drilling bucket for drilling a bore hole in the ground including a hollow cylindrical body and at least one cutting tool arranged at a lower side of the hollow cylindrical body for cutting soil material. The hollow cylindrical body has a lower opening for receiving soil material cut by the at least one cutting tool. For guiding the hollow cylindrical body in the bore hole an upper guiding device is provided which is arranged above the hollow cylindrical body and fixed to the hollow cylindrical body. The upper guiding device is configured to abut on a side wall of the bore hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: BAUER SPEZIALTIEFBAU GMBHInventor: Karl van der WAAL
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Publication number: 20140027184Abstract: The present invention is directed to the configuration of an elongate inner member of a dual-member pipe. The elongate inner member of the dual-member pipe is disposed within an outer member and rotatable independent of the outer member. The inner member comprises a geometrically-shaped pin end and a box end having a geometrically-shaped opening. The geometrically-shaped opening of the box end has at least one internal angle greater than 180 degrees. The pin end of the inner member may be inserted into the box end of an adjacent similarly formed inner member to form an inner member pipe joint. The configuration of the pin end and the box end allows the pin end and the box end to be in connector free torque-transmitting engagement but also provides clearance for potential misalignment of the pin end and the box during make-up of an inner member drill string.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2013Publication date: January 30, 2014Applicant: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.Inventors: Greg Lowell Slaughter, JR., Cody L. Sewell
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Patent number: 8622151Abstract: A drilling machine includes a feed cable system which operatively couples a rotary head to a tower. The feed cable system includes first and second pull up cables and an equalizer bar, wherein the equalizer bar is coupled to the first and second pull up cables. The equalizer bar drives the rotary head to be held in a level position so that it is restricted from tilting. The drilling machine includes a slack take up device which couples the equalizer bar to the tower. The slack take up device is repeatably moveable between extended and retracted conditions.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2009Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Atlas Copco Drilling Solutions LLCInventor: Timothy W. Ledbetter
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Patent number: 8607898Abstract: A force compensator for a top drive assembly includes a carrier block, a pair of top drive link assemblies, a mandrel, and a shock absorber assembly. The top drive link assemblies being positionable on either side of a power swivel and having a lower end connectable to the power swivel, an upper end connected to the carrier block, and being slidably positionable on a derrick of a drilling rig. The mandrel is slidably disposed through the carrier block and has an upper end connectable to a mover assembly of the drilling rig. The shock absorber assembly is interposed between the carrier block and a lower end of the mandrel in such a way that the shock absorber assembly is movable between an expanded condition and a compressed condition.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2011Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Rodgers Technology, LLCInventor: Troy A. Rodgers
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Patent number: 8534382Abstract: Disclosed are hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus, subterranean hydrocarbon recovery drilling methods, and subterranean hydrocarbon recovery methods. In one embodiment, a hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus includes an elongated assembly within which a rotatable drill rod is received. The assembly comprises a longitudinal axis, a drill rod entrance end, and a drill rod exit end. The assembly comprises a tailcuttings diverter pipe proximate the drill rod exit end, with the tailcuttings diverter pipe defining an initial fluid flow path of the tailcuttings from the longitudinal axis which is acute from the longitudinal axis. Other apparatus and method aspects are contemplated.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: NEP IP, LLCInventors: Robb Vanpelt, Brian Landry, Greg Vandersnick
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Patent number: 8505652Abstract: A well drilling head comprises a well drilling head housing, a bearing assembly, a first lubricant manifold and a second lubricant manifold. The well drilling head housing has a sidewall structure defining a central bore. The bearing assembly is configured for being removably seated within the well drilling head housing and for having a stripper rubber assembly attached to a lower end portion thereof. The bearing assembly includes a plurality of bearings and a bearing lubricant flow path configured for allowing bearing lubricant to be circulated through the bearings. The first lubricant manifold has a bearing lubricant passage coupled to the first end portion of the bearing lubricant flow path. The second lubricant manifold has a bearing lubricant passage coupled to a second end portion of the bearing lubricant flow path.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2010Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Hampton IP Holding Co., LLCInventor: Theresa J. Williams
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Publication number: 20130192895Abstract: A device is for a drilling rig for forming of a bore hole in a subterranean structure. The drilling rig comprises a first, top driven drilling machine arranged vertically displaceable along a guide track, where a second drilling machine is arranged between the first drilling machine and the bore hole, vertically displaceable along a guide track and provided with a rotary table arranged to be able to take the weight of a pipe string. A rotary drive unit is arranged for continuous rotation of the pipe string. A fluid chamber is arranged to, in a fluid communicating way, be able to connect a pipe string end portion with a drilling liquid plant. As the fluid chamber is provided with pipe string ports comprising means arranged to, in a fluid sealing way, be able to close the pipe string ports. A power tong is arranged for continuous rotation of an element connected to the pipe string, as the power tong is arranged in the fluid chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2011Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: West Drilling Products ASInventors: Helge Krohn, Mads Grinrød, Odd B. Skjaerseth
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Patent number: 8474551Abstract: Disclosed are hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus, subterranean hydrocarbon recovery drilling methods, and subterranean hydrocarbon recovery methods. In one embodiment, a hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus includes an elongated assembly within which a rotatable drill rod is received. The assembly comprises a longitudinal axis, a drill rod entrance end, and a drill rod exit end. The assembly comprises a tailcuttings diverter pipe proximate the drill rod exit end, with the tailcuttings diverter pipe defining an initial fluid flow path of the tailcuttings from the longitudinal axis which is acute from the longitudinal axis. Other apparatus and method aspects are contemplated.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: NEP IP, LLCInventors: Greg Vandersnick, Brian Landry, Robb Vanpelt
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Publication number: 20130081877Abstract: A system and method for boring a hole in rock with a digger derrick; which utilizes a hollow stem auger, a kelly bar, and a core barrel with a top support member with a hole therein for receiving the kelly bar with a detachable central pilot bit thereon which is translatable up and down with respect to the core barrel as the kelly bar and auger are manipulated. The kelly bar is selectively positionable with respect to the auger so as to allow the ability to retract the pilot bit inward into the core barrel and to shorten the separation between the pilot bit and the auger.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: TEREX USA, LLCInventor: TEREX USA, LLC
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Patent number: 8381816Abstract: A method of flushing a wellbore fluid from a downhole tool containing a bearing package includes pumping hydraulic oil through at least one of a hydraulic inlet line and at least one of a pneumatic inlet line connected to the main housing and into an annulus formed between the bearing package and a main housing of the downhole tool, wherein the hydraulic oil replaces the wellbore fluid in the annulus, removing the wellbore fluid from the annulus through at least one hydraulic outlet line and at least one pneumatic outlet line connected to the main housing, pumping air through the at least one pneumatic inlet line connected to the main housing and removing the hydraulic oil from the at least one pneumatic inlet line connected to the main housing, and removing the hydraulic oil through at least one pneumatic outlet line connected to the main housing.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2010Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Smith International, Inc.Inventors: Trung Leduc, Huward Paul Fontenot, Alberto Zubia, Robert James Costo
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Patent number: 8336614Abstract: A movable well drilling rig for drilling either on-shore or off-shore new in-line arranged oil, gas, mineral and water wells or for servicing in-line non-productive wells with well heads emerging from ground by at least three meters where the rig has a drilling mast supporting a vertically upward and downward movable drilling rotary head, where the drilling mast is operatively associated at least a pipe and drilling bit and stabilizer container, pipe and drilling bit and stabilizer element gripping and loader devices as well as driving motors, and a control operator, cab and auxiliary servicing devices, wherein all the above components are operatively supported either on a ground movable substructure or on a floating platform.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Inventor: Walter Bagassi
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Publication number: 20120298004Abstract: The invention relates to a mining vehicle and method for its energy supply. The mining vehicle has a carriage, driving equipment for moving the carriage, and at least one mining work device. Further, the mining vehicle has at least one electric motor for operating a main function of the mining vehicle, and at least one electric motor for operating an auxiliary function of the mining vehicle. The mining vehicle further has a power-generating auxiliary unit. When necessary, the power-generating auxiliary unit supplies at least part of the power required by the electric motor operating the auxiliary function.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2010Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventors: Jukka Osara, Mikko Kouvo, Juha Piipponen
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Patent number: 8307918Abstract: Disclosed are hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus, subterranean hydrocarbon recovery drilling methods, and subterranean hydrocarbon recovery methods. In one embodiment, a hydrocarbon recovery drill string apparatus includes an elongated assembly within which a rotatable drill rod is received. The assembly comprises a longitudinal axis, a drill rod entrance end, and a drill rod exit end. The assembly comprises a tailcuttings diverter pipe proximate the drill rod exit end, with the tailcuttings diverter pipe defining an initial fluid flow path of the tailcuttings from the longitudinal axis which is acute from the longitudinal axis. Other apparatus and method aspects are contemplated.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2010Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: New Era Petroleum, LLCInventors: Greg Vandersnick, Brian Landry, Robb Vanpelt
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Patent number: 8246474Abstract: A Kelly bar arrangement includes an inner bar and at least one outer bar, whereby the inner bar is arranged with respect to the at least one outer bar in an axially movable but rotationally fixed manner, and a spring means which is arranged in a lower area of the inner bar for cushioning an axial movement of the inner bar with respect to the at least one outer bar. In accordance with the invention provision is made for the spring means to be designed as an elastomer spring.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2010Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Bauer Maschinen GmbHInventors: Karl Johannes Krollmann, Melchior Jais
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Publication number: 20120199396Abstract: A drill rig 10 comprises a drill tower 12, rotation head 14 and drill table 16. Drill tower 12 is in the form of a rectangular box frame 18 and is of fixed length. Rotation head 14 provides torque to a drill string used for drilling a hole and is supported on and linearly traversable along drill tower 12. Drill rig traverse system 20 provides pull back and pull down force to the rotation head 14 enabling the rotation head 14 to traverse along drill tower 12 and controlling contact force between the drill bit and toe of a hole being drilled. Traverse system 20 comprises the combination of a hydraulic ram traverse system 22 which provides both pull back and pull down force; and a winch pull back system 24 which provides pull back only. A winch 60 of winch pull back system 24 is supported on the tower 12. Both hydraulic ram traverse system 22 and winch pull back system 24 can traverse the rotation head for the full length of the tower 12 when simultaneously applying pull back to the rotation head 14.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2011Publication date: August 9, 2012Inventor: Warren STRANGE
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Publication number: 20120160570Abstract: A top drive system with a plurality of top drive modules, which are configured to be quickly exchanged. The top drive modules may include any or all of the following: a main body module, a gearbox module, a drive motor module, a pipe handler module, an upper fluid module, a lower well control valve module, a block interface module, a retract system interface frame module, a cooling system module, a work platform guard module, and a quill saver sub module. Alternatively, the top drive may comprise a first top drive and a second top drive which are configured to be quickly exchanged.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2012Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.Inventors: Beat KUTTEL, Randall S. Pyrch, Faisal J. Yousef, Alan S. Richardson, Greg Kostiuk
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Publication number: 20120125692Abstract: A force compensator for a top drive assembly includes a carrier block, a pair of top drive link assemblies, a mandrel, and a shock absorber assembly. The top drive link assemblies being positionable on either side of a power swivel and having a lower end connectable to the power swivel, an upper end connected to the carrier block, and being slidably positionable on a derrick of a drilling rig. The mandrel is slidably disposed through the carrier block and has an upper end connectable to a mover assembly of the drilling rig. The shock absorber assembly is interposed between the carrier block and a lower end of the mandrel in such a way that the shock absorber assembly is movable between an expanded condition and a compressed condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2011Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventor: Troy A. Rodgers
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Patent number: 8181721Abstract: A top drive track and slide assembly for use in drilling wells having a torque track slide assembly configured to connect to a top drive, and a modular torque track assembly configured to engage the torque track slide assembly. The modular torque track assembly can connect on a drilling rig. The modular torque track assembly can have a top track, one or more middle tracks, and a bottom track. One of the middle tracks can connect to the top track, and one of the middle tracks can connect to the bottom track using locking devices and connecting pins. The modular torque track assembly can be configured to be various lengths for various applications. The torque track slide assembly can have inserts retained therein without fasteners, allowing the inserts to be completely worn down before requiring replacement.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2011Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Inventor: Larry G. Keast
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Patent number: 8182353Abstract: A bottom roller drive mechanism for a subterranean soil processing tool is provided. The tool is connected to a string of Kelly bar sections. Each Kelly bar section has a preferably square, or other polygonal, cross-section. A plurality of roller wheels is mounted in a drive assembly connected to the bottom rotary drive plate. The roller wheel assembly engages the faces of each Kelly bar section and rotates the Kelly bar around a vertical axis A-A. The upper and lower ends of each Kelly bar section are tapered to form a reduced cross-section at each joint. The roller drive assembly is free to rotate at each joint without rotating the Kelly bar. This allows misaligned Kelly bar sections to pass through the drive mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2010Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Inventor: Verne L. Schellhorn
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Publication number: 20120031679Abstract: An excavation apparatus includes a base structure mountable to a vehicle, and a first supporting member pivotally coupled to the base structure. The first supporting member is pivotable about a pivot axis that is generally parallel to a lateral direction between a retracted position and an advanced position. A second supporting member is rotatably coupled to the first supporting member. A rotary spindle is supported by the second supporting member and extends lengthwise along a cutting axis and is rotatable thereabout for driving a cutting element. When the first supporting member is in the advanced position, the second supporting member is rotatable about a rotation axis that is generally parallel to a longitudinal direction between a stowed position in which the cutting axis is generally parallel to the lateral direction and a deployed position in which the cutting axis is generally parallel to a vertical direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2010Publication date: February 9, 2012Inventors: EDWARD MARSHALL POLLOCK, ANDREW LESLIE POLLOCK
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Publication number: 20110308863Abstract: A bottom roller drive mechanism for a subterranean soil processing tool is provided. The tool is connected to a string of Kelly bar sections. Each Kelly bar section has a preferably square, or other polygonal, cross-section. A plurality of roller wheels is mounted in a drive assembly connected to the bottom rotary drive plate. The roller wheel assembly engages the faces of each Kelly bar section and rotates the Kelly bar around a vertical axis A-A. The upper and lower ends of each Kelly bar section are tapered to form a reduced cross-section at each joint. The roller drive assembly is free to rotate at each joint without rotating the Kelly bar. This allows misaligned Kelly bar sections to pass through the drive mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2010Publication date: December 22, 2011Inventor: Verne L. Schellhorn
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Publication number: 20110297446Abstract: A drill system for use with a drill rod includes a support member, and a drill assembly movably associated with the support member and configured to be connected to the drill rod. The system further includes a centralizing device movably associated with the support member and configured to receive the drill rod. The centralizing device includes a movable jaw and a latch arm connected to the jaw and configured to move the jaw between an open position and a closed position for retaining the drill rod. Furthermore, the latch arm has a locking feature configured to hold the latch arm in a locked position to thereby hold the jaw in the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2010Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: BUCYRUS MINING EQUIPMENTInventor: Stuart A. Connell
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Patent number: 8047306Abstract: A low speed alternating current motor having motor shaft speeds of about 300 is provided, and such motor has application in numerous industries and devices, such as, for example, in top drive drilling systems. Because of the low shaft speed, mechanical speed reduction equipment may not be necessary. In addition, the motor shaft may be hollow to facilitate the flow of fluid, such as, for example, drilling mud.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: LeTourneau Technologies Drilling Systems, Inc.Inventors: Kevin R Williams, Alvie E. Howard, Jr., Daniel F. McNease, Rudy Harris, Richard Bradley
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Publication number: 20110224859Abstract: A method for using a mining vehicle, arrangement in a mine, rock drilling rig, and mining vehicle. Tasks according to a work cycle are performed at work sites with a mining work device in a mining vehicle. At the work site, the vehicle is connected to an external electrical network. An energy storage of the vehicle is charged during the work cycle defined by a excavation plan, when the vehicle is at a work site. After the work cycle is done, electricity obtained from the energy storage is used in a transfer drive.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: SANDVIK MINING AND CONSTRUCTION OYInventors: Juha Pipponen, Jukka Osara, Jarno Kuittinen, Mikko Kouvo
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Publication number: 20110214919Abstract: Systems and methods for wellbore operations using a dual top drive system with two top drives; the top drives positioned with one above the other; the two top drives in certain aspects movable separately or in unison; in one aspect the top drives operational to counter each other's reactive torque; and in other aspects the wellbore operation being one of drilling, casing, casing while drilling, casing drilling, reaming, underreaming, joint make-up, joint breakout, milling, managed pressure drilling, underbalanced drilling, tubular running, tubular running with continuous circulation, controlling bit face orientation during operations with a bit, conducting well operations based on mechanical specific energy considerations, and automatic drilling.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventor: Guy L. McClung, III
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Publication number: 20110180326Abstract: An apparatus for cutting a wellbore includes a motor with a stator and a rotor. The rotor includes an output shaft connected to a cutting structure to drive the cutting structure in use. The stator and rotor are spaced radially outwardly of the axis of the rotor such that at least one of the stator and the rotor has an access bore that extends through the motor to a position adjacent the cutting structure and through which a further object can pass without obstruction from the stator and rotor. The further object includes a further cutting structure. The motor workings are radially outward of the output shaft and the further cutting structure so as not to obstruct passage of the further cutting structure toward the cutting structure, such that the motor workings do not require drilling or removal to allow the further cutting structure access to the cutting structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2011Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Edward D. Scott, Lance S. Davis
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Patent number: 7975781Abstract: A kelly driver has a top ring and a plurality of split bushings. The a top ring has a top surface, a bottom surface, a drive lug extending from the bottom surface, and a central passage extending through the top and bottom surfaces. The drive lug has a notch within an end face thereof. A first one of the split bushings has a drive lug extending outwardly from a side surface thereof. Adjacent pairs of the split bushings have end portions thereof pivotably connected to each other through a respective hinge structure. Each hinge structure includes a respective connection pin about which adjacent pair of the split bushings are pivotably connected. An upper surface of each one of the split bushings is engaged with the bottom surface of the top ring with the drive lug of the first one of the split bushings positioned within the drive lug of the top ring.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Hampton IP Holdings Co., LLCInventors: John R. Williams, Theresa J. Williams, legal representative
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Patent number: 7950668Abstract: An air swivel ring includes a non-rotating member having an air inlet, a rotating member having an air outlet, and a split seal having a first sealing surface and coupled to one of the non-rotating member and the rotating member so that the first sealing surface on the seal is disposed proximate a second sealing surface on the other of the non-rotating member and the rotating member.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2010Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLCInventors: Ryan Gustafson, Jonathan Bowen
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Publication number: 20110091285Abstract: An apparatus for placing foundation devices and/or pipes and/or augers in the ground, as an attachment to be attached to the boom of a construction vehicle, including a mounting hinged to a coupling point of the boom, and a drive head, which is rigidly connected to the mounting and configured as a rotational driving and/or drilling and/or impact drilling and/or pile-driving drive and to which the foundation device/pipe/auger for placement in the ground can be coupled. The coupling point can be displaced with respect to the drive head in at least one first direction which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the foundation device/pipe/auger, and optionally in a second direction, which is transverse to the first direction. The mounting can be a universal joint in which a first joint axis extends so that a first and a second joint part can be displaced thereon, relative to each other, in the first direction, so as to displace the coupling point.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2009Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventors: Guenther Thurner, Martin Thurner
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Patent number: 7926594Abstract: A well drilling head comprises a housing having a sidewall structure defining a central bore and a bearing assembly removably seated within the central bore of the housing. The bearing assembly includes an outer barrel having a central bore, an inner barrel at least partially disposed within the central bore of the outer barrel and bearing units coupled between the barrels for providing concentric alignment of the barrels and allowing rotation therebetween. The inner barrel includes a central bore and a plurality of cooling structures protruding from a surface thereof within the central bore.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2010Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Hampton IP Holdings Co., LLCInventors: John R. Williams, Theresa J. Williams, legal representative
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Patent number: 7918291Abstract: A well drilling head comprises a housing and a bearing assembly. The housing has a sidewall structure defining a central bore. The bearing assembly includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel, bearing units and a preload force exerting member. The outer barrel has a central bore and the inner barrel is removably seated within the housing central bore. The bearing units are coupled between the barrels for providing concentric alignment of the barrels and allowing rotation therebetween. A first one of the bearing units is configured for carrying loads exerted radially between the barrels and a second one of the bearing units is configured for carrying loads exerted longitudinally between the barrels. The preload force exerting member maintains force on the longitudinal load carrying bearing unit and said barrels thereby preloading the longitudinal load carrying bearing unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventors: John R. Williams, Theresa J. Williams, legal representative