With Orienting Or Racking Means For Unconnected Tools Or Sections Of Shaft Or Casing Patents (Class 175/85)
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Patent number: 9249626Abstract: A method for deploying a mobile rig system to a well site includes transporting a control van to the well site. A rig carrier is utilized to transport the mast assembly and position the mast adjacent a wellhead. A skid mounted pipe moving member is transported to the well site and positioned on an opposite end of the wellhead from the mast assembly. The skid is interconnected to the rig carrier for maintaining a fixed distance between the mast assembly and the pipe moving member. A carrier support member is fastened at the interconnection point and extends outward to stabilize the mast assembly. Hydraulic actuators are utilized to level the mast assembly with a ground surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2012Date of Patent: February 2, 2016Assignee: SUPERIOR ENERGY SERVICES-NORTH AMERICA SERVICES, INC.Inventor: Mark Flusche
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Patent number: 9194191Abstract: An apparatus, a system, and a method to secure a link in a drilling rig. The apparatus includes a carrier configured to removably secure at least a portion of the link therein, in which the carrier is configured to have a first end of the link accessible outside of the carrier. Further, the system includes a tool having a link ear and suspended within the drilling rig, the link ear configured to attach a first end of the link thereupon, and a carrier configured to removably secure at least a portion of the link, in which the first end of the link is accessible to attach to the link ear.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2012Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: Frank's International, LLCInventors: Logan Essex Smith, Jeremy Richard Angelle, Robert Thibodeaux, Jr.
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Patent number: 9121236Abstract: Implementations described herein comprise systems, apparatus and methods for drill string component storage, handling and positioning devices. The handling device can comprise a magazine assembly configured for storing and handling elongate members having a magazine assembly and at least one conveyor roller chain operatively associated with the magazine assembly. The magazine assembly can further comprise an internal path having a loading aperture and a dispensing aperture disposed on opposing ends of the internal path. The at least one conveyor roller chain can be configured to controllably urge the at least one drill string component from the loading aperture to the dispensing aperture. The handling device can further comprise an armature assembly operatively associated with the magazine assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2012Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: Longyear TM, Inc.Inventors: Tomasz Matlewski, Dan Garland
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Patent number: 9121235Abstract: The present invention provides a rapid rig-up and rig-down pipe stand building and racking system that is capable of being retrofit to an existing drilling rig. In particular, the invention relates to a horizontal to vertical pipe delivery machine that is mountable to a drilling rig. The horizontal to vertical machine delivers sections of pipe to a pair of drilling rig mounted elevators. The elevators receive and vertically translate the sections of pipe. A power tong may be used to make connections between the sections of pipe to form a pipe stand, and may also break the connections of the pipe stand. A drill floor mounted pipe racking system receives the connected drill pipe from the elevators. A pipe racking system that may be used in conjunction with the stand building system is capable of controlled, rapid, and precise movement of multiple connected sections of pipe.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2012Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
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Patent number: 8955620Abstract: Implementations of the present invention include a drill rod guide configured to align a first drill rod and a second drill rod. The drill rod guide includes a cylindrical section and a tapered or frusta-conical section. The cylindrical section is sized and configured to concentrically surround a first drill rod. The tapered or frusta-conical section is sized and configured to guide a second drill rod into the cylindrical section and into alignment with the first drill rod. The drill rod guide may include first and second guide members that form symmetrical halves of the drill rod guide. The first and second guide members may be connected to first and second jaws of the clamp. The guide may include a window configured to allow a user to visually confirm that the first and second drill rods are aligned.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2011Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Longyear TM, Inc.Inventors: Keith William Littlely, Andrew Frank Hay, Mathew C. Everett
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Patent number: 8955602Abstract: The present disclosure provides a drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme and methods using two or more systems that operate simultaneously and continuously in a synchronized manner such that the feeding of tubulars into or out of a well bore is achieved with continuous or near continuous movement, without the need for periodic interruptions. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is also able to rotate the tubulars in the well bore with continuous speed and torque sufficient for both drilling and back-reaming operations. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is additionally able to circulate drilling fluid into the internal bore of the tubulars with sufficient pressure and flow to facilitate both drilling and back-reaming operations, with minimal interruption to circulation.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2011Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: LeTourneau Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Rick Pilgrim
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Publication number: 20150021095Abstract: Modular transfigurable drilling rig system composed of multiple components, which system is transfigurable between a transport mode in which the components of the system are transportable and an operational mode in which the components are assembled to a drilling rig which is adapted to drill into a well centre in the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2013Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventors: Diederick Bernardus Wijning, Joop Roodenburg
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Patent number: 8905160Abstract: An assembly for handling drill pipes includes a basket for drill pipes arranged in rows and columns, and a support table that has a drill pipe receiver. The support table moves laterally with respect to the drill pipe basket between a plurality of column alignment positions and an external position which locates the drill pipe receiver laterally outside of the basket. The support table also moves between the plurality of column alignment positions and the external position. The drill pipe handling assembly also includes a drill pipe elevator assembly and a loader arm assembly comprising a loader arm having a pipe gripper. The loader arm moves between a table alignment position in which the pipe gripper may grab or release a drill pipe when the support table is in the external position and a drilling alignment position in which the pipe gripper may grab or release a drill pipe.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2009Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.Inventors: Claudio Verzilli, Justin Wheeler, Tim Smith
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Publication number: 20140294512Abstract: A system for pushing and pulling rod strings through the ground or an underground pipe. The apparatus has a downhole tool attached to the distal end of the rod string. The push/pull machine has a stationary frame that is placed against the ground to provide a reaction surface. The stationary frame has an opening for the rod string to pass through. A rod gripping assembly is supported on the machine frame and moveable relative to the stationary frame. The rod gripping assembly has a slip bowl, jaws, a thrust member and an actuator. The actuator powers movement of the jaws into the slop bowl to cause a powered gripping of the rod string by the machine. With the rod string gripped a cylinder assembly is activated to push the rod gripping assembly toward the stationary frame thereby pushing the rod string into the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2014Publication date: October 2, 2014Applicant: Earth Tool Company LLCInventors: Steven W. Wentworth, Robert F. Crane, Mark D. Randa
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Patent number: 8839881Abstract: A device and method for handling a tubular on a drilling rig. The device includes a base, an arm mount coupled to the base, a support arm rotatably connected to the arm mount, and a tubular guide coupled to support arm. The base may include a guide disposed into the base, where the guide contains a circular portion which is concentric to a well center, and the arm mount slidably disposed in the guide.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2011Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Inventor: Richard Baumler
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Publication number: 20140262518Abstract: A method including arranging a plurality of actuators into an operating position, arranging a first upper frame and a second upper frame proximate the actuators, attaching a support to the first upper frame and the second upper frame, wherein the support is located above the actuators, and extending the actuators to engage the support. The method also includes extending the actuators to raise the support, the first upper frame, and the second upper frame to a first position, arranging a first middle frame below the first upper frame and a second middle frame below the second upper frame, retracting the actuators to lower the support, the first upper frame, and the second upper frame to a second position, and attaching the first upper frame to the first middle frame and attaching the second upper frame to the second middle frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Nabors Drilling International LimitedInventors: Padira REDDY, Ashish GUPTA, Sean M. BAILEY
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Publication number: 20140262520Abstract: A method comprising attaching a first mast section to a support structure using a first plurality of fasteners located on the support structure, wherein a lower portion of the support structure is connected to and located above an opening in the platform comprising a platform floor, and wherein the first mast section has a line, a hook, and a pulley, with the line operably coupled to the pulley and connected to a hoist attached to the platform. The method also comprises lowering the hook, using the hoist, in a downward direction away from the pulley and through the opening, attaching the hook to a second mast section located below the platform floor, raising the hook and the second mast section, using the hoist, in an upward direction towards the pulley and through the opening, and connecting the first mast section to the second mast section.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Nabors Drilling International LimitedInventors: Anthony PETRELLO, Padira REDDY, Ashish GUPTA, Sean M. BAILEY
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Publication number: 20140262519Abstract: A method includes attaching a carriage support to a platform, the platform comprising a platform floor having an opening therein, with the carriage support located proximate the opening, attaching a drive carriage to the carriage support, and operably coupling to the drive carriage a first mast section of a mast comprising a plurality of mast sections, and wherein the first mast section is located above the opening. The method also includes arranging a second mast section below the first mast section, lowering, using the drive carriage, the first mast section through the opening, attaching the first mast section to the second mast section, and raising, using the drive carriage, the first mast section and the second mast section through the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Nabors Drilling International LimitedInventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
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Patent number: 8827008Abstract: A racking board for retaining tubulars is disclosed having a first finger, a second forger positioned generally parallel to the first finger and with a gap between the fingers serving as a storage area for tubulars. A first inflatable member is supported adjacent to the first finger and a second inflatable member is supported adjacent to the second finger, the inflatable members adapted to expand radially into the gap upon inflation so as to capture and retain the tubular. In some embodiments, a single inflatable member in employed to expand into the gap and retain the tubular. A method of racking tubulars is disclosed using elongate, inflatable restraints.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2011Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.Inventors: John Benjamin Hankins, Baldwin Zahn
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Publication number: 20140224543Abstract: The drilling rig includes a first substructure and a second substructure. The second substructure is positioned generally parallel to and spaced apart from the first substructure and generally the same height as the first substructure. The drilling rig further includes a drill floor coupled to the first and second substructures, where the drill floor positioned substantially at the top of the first and second substructures.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: Nabors Drilling USAInventors: Reddy Padira, Ashish Gupta
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Publication number: 20140202769Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an x-direction support structure extending in the same direction as a line extending between a well center and a V-door on a drilling rig and include a y-direction support structure moveable along the x-direction support structure. The y-direction support structure extends on a drilling rig in a direction transverse to the line extending between the well center and the V-door on the drilling rig. A racker device is carried by the y-direction support structure and is configured to connect to and carry a tubular stand used in a well drilling process, the racker device being moveable along the y-direction support structure from a position inline with the line extending between the well center and the V-door on the drilling rig to a position offline from the line to provide space for additional drilling processes along the line extending between the well center and the V-door on the drilling rig.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2014Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: Nabors Industries, Inc.Inventor: Christopher Magnuson
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Patent number: 8671626Abstract: A drilling rig assembly having a longitudinal axis and comprising a drilling rig skid and a derrick assembly having a derrick assembly pivot axis and being adapted to move relative to the drilling rig skid. The derrick assembly comprises a pair of derrick masts disposed on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis and comprising a rack, and a carriage assembly being substantially disposed between the pair of derrick masts, being adapted to move along the pair of derrick masts and comprising a pinion. The drilling rig assembly also comprises a means for moving the derrick assembly relative to the drilling rig skid, a pipe loader assembly having a pipe loader assembly pivot axis, and a means for moving the pipe loader assembly relative to the drilling rig skid. The derrick assembly pivot axis and the pipe loader assembly pivot axis are co-axial.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2012Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.Inventors: Dan Marty, Eddie Stuckert, Kalpeshkumar Patel
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Patent number: 8662203Abstract: The invention relates to a method for creating a deep borehole, in particular in an emission-sensitive region, and to a device therefor. The invention is based on the object of providing a drilling method and a drilling device allowing deep boreholes to be created even in regions which are sensitive to emissions, such as inner-city buildings or in nature regions to be protected, and at the same time of reducing significant damage to these regions when creating deep boreholes. This object is achieved in that a shaft structure (20) is created, a stationary drilling system (10) is installed into the shaft structure (20), the floor (23) of the shaft structure is prepared as a drilling starting point and the deep borehole is sunk using a suitable drilling method.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2009Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Herrenknecht Vertical GmbHInventors: Werner Suhm, Jurgen Binder, Martin Ruder, Michael Back
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Publication number: 20140054089Abstract: An auxiliary arm for drilling equipment (1) including a top drive drilling machine (4) which is vertically movable along a drilling centre (10), and in which at least one pipe manipulator (6) is arranged to move pipes (8) between the drilling centre (10) and a pipe magazine (7), and in which, beside the drilling centre (10), at least one at least remote-controllable or automatically operated auxiliary arm (12, 14) for the pipe (8) is arranged, the gripping member (24) of the auxiliary arm (12, 14) being positional at least at the drilling centre (10) or in the working area of the pipe manipulator (6).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Robotic Drilling Systems ASInventor: Kenneth Sondervik
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Patent number: 8651200Abstract: A device is for vertical tool guiding for a drill floor. On the drill floor is arranged at least one rig. Each rig is arranged on a rig foundation supported on the drill floor rotatably about a first, vertical axis (A) and arranged to be able to displace a tool in a horizontal working sector (Sa, Sb, Sc) that in a vertical projection at least touches or cuts through the central axis (C) in a through drill floor opening. Each rig is provided with a vertical guide track.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: West Drilling Products ASInventors: Helge Krohn, Mads Grinrød, Odd B. Skjaerseth, Ove Kalvatn, Jarle Veshovde
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Patent number: 8631949Abstract: A tubulars storage device for storing a plurality of tubulars which has a slot forming a path of displacement for tubulars allowing to place tubulars at respective storage positions distributed along the slot as well as removal of said tubulars from the slot. The device includes a rotary latch members shaft, which is mounted substantially parallel to the slot, and a drive connected to the rotary latch members shaft, said drive being adapted to effect controlled angular rotation of the latch members shaft. A plurality of latch members are mounted on the latch members shaft so as to rotate with the latch members shaft and are arranged at spaced apart locations along the latch members shaft.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2008Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Itrec B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Michal Horak, Harmen Kromdijk
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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: 8590639Abstract: An articulated pre-skimmer mount for a pre-skimmer associated with a drill bit feed unit comprises a feed mounting arm mounted to the drill bit feed unit. A first end is configured for attachment to the drill feed unit and a second end includes a cylindrical mounting shaft and an axial positioning plate. An intermediate arm has a first end comprising a cylindrical sleeve mounted thereto. The cylindrical sleeve has an inner cylindrical opening configured for sliding engagement with the cylindrical mounting shaft and a mating plate configured for locking, face-to-face engagement with the axial positioning plate. A second end comprises a pre-skimmer mounting assembly configured for attachment to the pre-skimmer, wherein an axial positioning plate and a mating plate are operable to disengage, for rotation of the intermediate arm about an axis of the feed mounting arm for alignment of the pre-skimmer.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Caterpillar Global Mining Equipment LLCInventor: Stuart A. Connell
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Publication number: 20130306378Abstract: A rod support system has an upper gripper assembly and a lower gripper assembly. Each gripper assembly has a top plate having a first track. The first track has a first substantially arcuate portion having a first radius of curvature and a second substantially arcuate portion having a second and smaller radius of curvature. A jaw is constrained to move in a path defined by the first track. A bottom plate of the assembly has a second track that is congruent with the first track also engaging the jaw, so that the jaw is constrained to move in a path defined by the first track and the second track in cooperation. The jaws can support a rod when the jaws move from a position along the first arcuate portion of the first and second tracks to a position along the second arcuate portion of the first and second tracks.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2012Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: ATLAS COPCO NORTH AMERICA, LLCInventors: Tim Ledbetter, Chad Przano, Andreas Jonsson
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Patent number: 8584773Abstract: A system and method for building and handling oilfield tubular stands while drilling operations are simultaneously and independently occurring with one drilling deck, one derrick, and one rotary system. An offline guided path horizontal to vertical arm lifts and moves in the same plane tubulars stored horizontally on the catwalk and positions the tubulars vertically directly into a preparation hole for assembling and disassembling tubular stands while online drilling operations are simultaneously being conducted. A stand arm lifts and lowers the tubulars into and out of the adjustable preparation hole, and transports the tubulars for storage to an auxiliary tubular racking station in the upper part of the derrick. A bridge racker crane moves tubular stands from the auxiliary tubular racking station to the top drive or another tubular racking station.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2012Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignees: Atwood Oceanics, Inc., Friede Goldman United, Ltd.Inventors: Mark Alan Childers, Brendan William Larkin, Harvey Mark Rich, Barry M. Smith
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Patent number: 8573329Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and apparatus to inhibit rotation within a drilling rig. The apparatus may include a first member connected to a first component of the drilling rig, and a second member connected to the first member and connected to a second component of the drilling rig, the second component configured to move vertically with respect to the first component. The first member is configured to move vertically with respect to the second member and the first member and the second member substantially inhibit rotation between each other. The apparatus may include a rotational adjustment system, in which the rotational adjustment system is used to connect with one of the components of the drilling rig.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2010Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.Inventors: Brian David Begnaud, Charles Michael Webre, Adam Gerard Pelletier, Dougal Hugo Brown, Tom Adrian Banger, Peter John Lovegrove
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Publication number: 20130240269Abstract: A drilling machine including a chassis and a primary rod box mounted on the chassis, which includes a rod box interface mechanism positioned adjacent a top of the primary rod box for facilitating interfacing the primary rod box with a supplemental rod box is provided. Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a rod box interface mechanism that automatically secures a rod box to a drilling machine as the rod box is lowered in place on the drilling machine. The rod box interface mechanism can in some embodiments be used to secure a supplemental rod box to a top of a primary rod box that is attached to a chassis of the drilling machine and can be used to secure a rod box directly to the chassis of the drilling machine. A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to self-aligning features intended to guide a rod box into place on a drilling machine as the rod box is lowered onto the drilling machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2011Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Russel Novelo, Michael D. Belloma, Ryan P. Roberts, Lucas Laverman, David Langenfeld, Ward Ryon
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Patent number: 8534386Abstract: An articulated apparatus for handling a drilling to has a base, a first set of arms pivotally connected at one end to the base and extending outwardly therefrom, a joint member pivotally connected to an opposite end of the first set of arms, a second set of arms pivotally connected at one end of to the joint member and extending outwardly therefrom, and a carrier assembly pivotally connected to an opposite end of the second set of arms. The carrier assembly is suitable for carrying the drilling tool so as to allow the drilling tool to move upwardly and downwardly. A drive system is cooperative with the first and second sets of arms so as to move the drilling tool between a stowed position and a deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Inventor: Yaogen Ge
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Patent number: 8408334Abstract: A tubular handling apparatus has a main rotating structural member pivotally movable between a first position and a second position, an arm interconnected to the main rotating structural member, and a gripper mechanism affixed to an end of the arm opposite the main rotating structural member. The gripper mechanism has a stab frame, a first gripper translatably attached to a side of the stab frame, and a second gripper translatably attached to the side of the stab frame below the first gripper. A connection bar is connected to the first and second grippers so as to translate the grippers for a substantially identical distance. A translating mechanism translates the grippers along the side of the stab frame.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2009Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
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Patent number: 8393415Abstract: A subsoil automatic rotary drilling system for drilling oil, mineral and water wells, characterized in that said system comprises, on a single system substructure, at least a triple-transmission hydraulic arrangement for lowering and raising a plurality of pipe elements to be introduced into and removed from a wellbore, said arrangement including a plurality of operating cables, each said cable having a dead end fixed to a cylinder carriage also supporting a plurality of transmission pulleys to handle together, while providing a triple stroke of pulling and pushing cylinders, two, three, four drilling pipe elements, having each a length of about 9.20 m (range 2).Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Inventor: Walter Bagassi
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Publication number: 20130037324Abstract: A device for handling drill string components for a drill rig. A slide is arranged displaceable on a longitudinal guide. A grip unit is swingable between a first position for receiving and delivering of drill string components beside the drill rig and a second position for assembling and disassembling of drill string components in the drill rig. The grip unit includes a rotator unit for rotation of a gripped drill string component. A rotational actuator supported by the slide has a rotational axis forming an angle with the length guide. A swing unit includes a first link portion that is connected to the rotational axis. A second link portion is connected to the grip unit and a swing joint portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: ATLAS COPCO CRAELIUS ABInventors: Misel Milivojevic, Ola Sylván, Mats IDOFF, Björn RUNDLÖF, Johan BROSTRÖM, Orjan Säker, Martin AHLSTRÖM
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Publication number: 20130032405Abstract: A fingerboard latch assembly includes a latch configured for operational engagement with a fingerboard for lockingly retaining at least one tubular to the fingerboard. The latch is movable within a range of motion extending from at least a locked position to an unlocked position. A positioner operatively engaged with the latch is communicably couplable to a process control network (PCN), and is sized and shaped for receipt within a latch channel of the fingerboard. The positioner is configured to move the latch within the range of motion in response to signals received from the PCN, to capture position data for the latch, including the position of the latch at a plurality of points within the range of motion, and to communicate the captured position data to the PCN.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: Invensys Systems, Inc.Inventor: James R. Braxton
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Patent number: 8281877Abstract: A top drive system includes a top drive, top drive adapter, and a tubular positioning apparatus. In another aspect, the top drive adapter includes a housing operatively connected to the top drive and a plurality of retaining members disposed in the housing for gripping the tubular. In another aspect, the tubular positioning apparatus includes a gripping member for engaging a tubular and a conveying member for positioning the gripping member. A spinner may be provided to rotate the tubular.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2008Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David Shahin, Jeff Habetz, David M. Haugen, Gary Thompson, Bernd-Georg Pietras, Jimmy L. Hollingsworth, Bernd Reinholdt
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Publication number: 20120217066Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to an apparatus, a system, and a method to secure a link in a drilling rig. The apparatus includes a carrier configured to removably secure at least a portion of the link therein, in which the carrier is configured to have a first end of the link accessible outside of the carrier. Further, the system includes a tool having a link ear and suspended within the drilling rig, the link ear configured to attach a first end of the link thereupon, and a carrier configured to removably secure at least a portion of the link, in which the first end of the link is accessible to attach to the link ear.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2012Publication date: August 30, 2012Applicant: FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOLS, INC.Inventors: Logan Essex Smith, Jeremy Richard Angelle, Robert Thibodeaux, JR.
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Patent number: 8251151Abstract: Apparatus and methods may be used to prevent an operator from inadvertently dropping a string into a wellbore during assembling and disassembling of tubulars. Additionally, the apparatus and methods may be used for running in casing, wellbore components, or a drill string.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: David M. Haugen
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Publication number: 20120181084Abstract: The present disclosure provides a drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme and methods using two or more systems that operate simultaneously and continuously in a synchronized manner such that the feeding of tubulars into or out of a well bore is achieved with continuous or near continuous movement, without the need for periodic interruptions. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is also able to rotate the tubulars in the well bore with continuous speed and torque sufficient for both drilling and back-reaming operations. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is additionally able to circulate drilling fluid into the internal bore of the tubulars with sufficient pressure and flow to facilitate both drilling and back-reaming operations, with minimal interruption to circulation.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2011Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventor: Rick Pilgrim
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Patent number: 8210279Abstract: Methods and systems are for tripping pipe on a rig floor that is positioned over a well. A measuring device is operated to measure a length characteristic of a first drill pipe in a plurality of separated drill pipes. The length characteristic is inputted into a controller configured to control machinery to hoist the first drill pipe above the drill string, to connect the first drill pipe to the uppermost drill pipe in the drill string, and to operate the drill string to drill into the well. The controller is operated to calculate a first vertical position into which it is necessary to hoist the first drill pipe so that a predetermined clearance distance exists between the lower end of the first drill pipe and the upper end of the uppermost drill pipe in the drill string.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Zaurayze Tarique
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Patent number: 8186455Abstract: A system and method for building and handling oilfield tubular stands while drilling operations are simultaneously and independently occurring with one drilling deck, one derrick, and one rotary system. An offline guided path horizontal to vertical arm lifts and moves in the same plane tubulars stored horizontally on the catwalk and positions the tubulars vertically directly into a preparation hole for assembling and disassembling tubular stands while online drilling operations are simultaneously being conducted. A stand arm lifts and lowers the tubulars into and out of the adjustable preparation hole, and transports the tubulars for storage to an auxiliary tubular racking station in the upper part of the derrick. A bridge racker crane moves tubular stands from the auxiliary tubular racking station to the top drive or another tubular racking station.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2010Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignees: Atwood Oceanics, Inc., Friede Goldman United, Ltd.Inventors: Mark Alan Childers, Brendan William Larkin, Harvey Mark Rich, Barry M. Smith
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Publication number: 20120103623Abstract: A hydrocarbon drilling tubulars storage and handling system, said system comprising: —first and second rotary storage racks, each rotary storage rack being rotatable about a vertical axis and having storage slots for storage of multiple tubulars in each rotary storage rack in vertical orientation, the first and second rotary storage rack each including a drive to rotate the storage rack about its vertical axis, —a tubulars racking device positioned between the first and second rotary storage racks, said racking device including a rotary structure that is rotatable about a vertical axis and a drive to rotate the rotary column structure about said vertical axis, the rotary structure supporting at a first side thereof a first tubular racker assembly and at a second side thereof a second tubular racker assembly, each tubular racker assembly including one or more one gripping members adapted to grip a tubular.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: ITREC B.V.Inventors: Diederick Bernardus Wijning, Joop Roodenburg
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Publication number: 20120097454Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for handling rod-shaped elements on drilling gear. The safety is inter alia increased by a device and a method wherein rod-shaped elements are placed on a placement device in defined positions and under defined conditions, the rod-shaped elements are separated on the placement device while being monitored, their safe support on a gripper is checked and once the elements are handed over to an elevator this action is confirmed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Rupert Kockeis, Hans-Peter Murr, Tobias Stadler, Andreas Beck, Markus Heckendorf, Werner Gluck, Georg Streicher, Marco Winter
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Patent number: 8151903Abstract: A pipe positioner having an arm including a lower jaw and an upper jaw mounted thereon is provided. The pipe positioner includes at least one of the lower jaw and the upper jaw with at least one shear pin disposed in location to provide protection of the pipe positioner from mechanical overload. A method for retrofit of a pipe positioner and a blasthole drilling rig are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Caterpillar Global Mining LLCInventors: Bruce Crawford, Steven M. Precopia
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Publication number: 20120018222Abstract: A racking board for retaining tubulars is disclosed having a first finger, a second forger positioned generally parallel to the first finger and with a gap between the fingers serving as a storage area for tubulars. A first inflatable member is supported adjacent to the first finger and a second inflatable member is supported adjacent to the second finger, the inflatable members adapted to expand radially into the gap upon inflation so as to capture and retain the tubular. In some embodiments, a single inflatable member in employed to expand into the gap and retain the tubular. A method of racking tubulars is disclosed using elongate, inflatable restraints.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, LPInventors: John Benjamin Hankins, Baldwin Zahn
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Patent number: 8083009Abstract: The invention is a new well drilling machine, in particular for drilling with single pipes, with supporting mast (M) provided with at least one drill head? (R) for the rotation-translation movement of the drill pipe (A), a loader (C) for said pipes (A), hinged to the relative supporting frame (T), integral with the machine body, and wherein said loader (C) can be slanted from the non-operating position (1) to the operating position (2), in which said pipes (A) are further slanted with respect to ground level, and vice versa. The loader (C) comprises sliders (J, K) which run on parallel guides (S) and on which said pipes (A) rest transversally, wherein two or more long pins or bars (P) square to and integral with said sliders (J, .K) are positioned between adjacent pipes (A), and wherein the running of said sliders (J, K) causes the translation of said bars (P) and said pipes (A).Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Inventors: Renzo Comacchio, Pasqualino Comacchio, Patrizio Comacchio
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Publication number: 20110297445Abstract: A method and apparatus for manipulating and deploying lengths of pipe when drilling wells is provided. The apparatus has a motor assembly with a rotor shaft coupled to a drive gear, and a torque assembly with a planetary gear set coupled to the drive gear of the motor and an annular gear. Planet gears are coupled to a torque converter, which is coupled to a stub for connecting to pipe joints. The torque converter has inclined surfaces for circulating lubricant through the gear assembly, and the planet gears have openings in registration with the inclined surfaces. A drilling fluid pipe is disposed through the rotor shaft of the motor assembly, and is coupled to the torque converter. Lead-screw linear actuators position an elevator, which hangs from links hooked to the apparatus, to manipulate the drill string, and a self-locking pipe jaw handles pipe joints.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2011Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: TSC OFFSHORE GROUP LIMITEDInventor: Donald W. Clemens
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Patent number: 8037949Abstract: A pipe running tool for use in an oil drilling system and the like comprises a lower drive shaft adapted to engage a drive shaft of a top drive assembly for rotation therewith. The pipe running tool further includes a lower pipe engagement assembly which is driven to rotate by the lower drive shaft, and is designed to releasably engage a pipe segment in such a manner to substantially prevent relative rotation between the two. Thus, when the lower pipe engagement assembly is actuated to securely hold a pipe segment, the top drive assembly may be actuated to rotate the top drive output shaft, which causes the lower drive shaft and lower pipe engagement assembly to rotate, which in turn rotates the pipe segment.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2010Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Juhasz, George Boyadjieff, Brian L. Eidem, Hans van Rijzingen, Herman M. Kamphorst, Hans Joachim Dietrich Böttger, Gustaaf Louis van Wechem
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Publication number: 20110247880Abstract: An alignment assembly includes a shaft, a first gripper coupled to the shaft, and a second gripper coupled to the shaft. The first gripper includes a fixed gripper body and a first rotating gripper body rotatingly coupled to the fixed gripper body. The second gripper may include a second rotating gripper body and a third rotating gripper body. An axis pivot rotatingly couples the second rotating gripper body and the third rotating gripper body.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2010Publication date: October 13, 2011Applicant: LONGYEAR TM, INC.Inventors: Stefan Wrede, Thorsten Upmeier, Christof Kruse
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Patent number: 8028748Abstract: A control apparatus to receive a tubular member includes a contact member configured to engage the tubular member, and a control mechanism operably coupled to the contact member, wherein the control mechanism is configured to dampen movement of at least one of the tubular member and the contact member as the tubular member engages the contact member.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2008Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Frank's International, Inc.Inventors: Burney J. Laitolais, Jr., David Stokes, Dougal Hugo Brown, Jean P. Buytaert
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Publication number: 20110232971Abstract: A portable drilling rig including a carousel housing several drill pipe sections used in drilling oil, gas, or other wells into the earth. The carousel indexes the drill pipe sections as a mast raises and lowers a kelly, rotated by a top head. The kelly temporarily attaches to a stored drill pipe section and lowers it into the earth where the drill pipe section is connected to an existing drill string. This entire process is automated so that no human interaction with the actual drill pipe section is necessary. The entire carousel rig may be loaded onto a truck bed or other transportation device to be delivered to a site where drilling is to occur.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: D. Aaron Harmon
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Publication number: 20110220413Abstract: The invention relates to a method for creating a deep borehole, in particular in an emission-sensitive region, and to a device therefor. The invention is based on the object of providing a drilling method and a drilling device allowing deep boreholes to be created even in regions which are sensitive to emissions, such as inner-city buildings or in nature regions to be protected, and at the same time of reducing significant damage to these regions when creating deep boreholes. This object is achieved in that a shaft structure (20) is created, a stationary drilling system (10) is installed into the shaft structure (20), the floor (23) of the shaft structure is prepared as a drilling starting point and the deep borehole is sunk using a suitable drilling method.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventors: Werner Suhm, Jurgen Blnder, Martin Ruder, Michael Back
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Patent number: 7992646Abstract: A horizontal offline stand building system includes a substantially horizontal, elongate catwalk having a frame and a stand lifting arm. The catwalk has a top surface adapted to receive at least two tubulars aligned coaxially along a linear path in a make-up channel on said top surface. The tubulars are threaded together to form preferably at least a triple pipe stand in the make-up channel. The completed stand is then transferred laterally to a delivery channel containing the stand lifting arm. The stand lifting arm is selectively actuable lifting arm for selectively elevating a rig end of a pipe stand from said top surface of the catwalk to the deck of a drilling rig, and then for supporting the mid and rear sections as the stand is hoisted from the delivery channel up the derrick of the drilling rig.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Weatherford Canada PartnershipInventors: Monte Neil Wright, Roman Vakulin