Horizontal To/from Vertical Patents (Class 414/22.54)
  • Patent number: 11585932
    Abstract: A processor is operably coupled to a time of flight (TOF) camera, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor, and an optical camera. The processor can receive a TOF signal representative of a first coordinate associated with a stick-up height of a tool joint of a pipe of a drill string during a tripping operation on a rig drill floor, and a pitch and a roll of the tool joint. The processor can receive a LIDAR signal representative of a second coordinate associated with the stick-up height, and the pitch of the tool joint. The processor can receive an optical camera signal representative of a third coordinate associated with the stick-up height of the tool joint and the roll of the tool joint. The processor can generate a pose estimate and an orientation estimate based on the signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: TRANSOCEAN SEDCO FOREX VENTURES LIMITED
    Inventors: Charles Blakely, Bradley J. Prevost
  • Patent number: 11293237
    Abstract: A ground drilling device has a drilling carriage which defines a drill string axis, a drill rod magazine for a plurality of rod sections, and a transfer device for the transfer of a rod section between the drill rod magazine and a position of the rod section in the direction of the drill string axis. The ground drilling device also has a guide on a top of the drill rod magazine that is configured to guide movement of the transfer device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: TRACTO-TECHNIK GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Lucas Jostes, Stefan Hermes, Dieter Wurm, Sebastian Fischer, Lars Rosenthal, Markus Hamers, Thomas Himmelreich, Christian Loher
  • Patent number: 11142966
    Abstract: A pipe handling system that can include a base skid, a ramp rotationally attached to the base skid, and support equipment (e.g., a drag chain pan, or equipment skid) coupled to the ramp, wherein rotation of the ramp from a first deployed position to a first stowed position lifts the support equipment from a second deployed position to a second stowed position. A method can include rotating the ramp relative to the base skid from a first deployed position to a first stowed position, and simultaneously lifting support equipment relative to the base skid from a second deployed position to a second stowed position in response to rotating the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling Technologies USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Travis Burke, Victor Martinez, Jane Towns
  • Patent number: 11098540
    Abstract: A tubular handling apparatus for a drilling system, a method for handling tubulars, and a drilling system. The apparatus includes a first trough configured to receive at least a first tubular and a second tubular, a first skate movable along the first trough and configured to engage a first end of the first tubular, and a second skate movable along the first trough and configured to engage a second end of the second tubular. The first and second skates are configured to push a third end of the first tubular into engagement with a fourth end of the second tubular in the first trough. The apparatus also includes a tongs configured to engage the first and second tubulars in the first trough and apply torque thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Jonah, Kevin Denness
  • Patent number: 10619428
    Abstract: A connection assembly for automated lifting and positioning of a chiksan or other fluid conduit in proximity to a fluid inlet of a device such as, for example, a cement or hydraulic fracturing head. Once a chiksan or other flow line is positioned in a desired location, a secure connection is made between the outlet of the chiksan or other fluid conduit and the fluid inlet including, without limitation, when the device is positioned at an elevated location above a rig floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: Blackhawk Specialty Tools, LLC
    Inventors: Ron D. Robichaux, James G. Martens, John E. Hebert, Juan Carlos E. Mondelli, James Champagne, Joseph Boudreaux, Scottie J. Scott, Jeremy LeCompte
  • Patent number: 10519729
    Abstract: A tubular handling apparatus for a drilling system, a method for handling tubulars, and a drilling system. The apparatus includes a first trough configured to receive at least a first tubular and a second tubular, a first skate movable along the first trough and configured to engage a first end of the first tubular, and a second skate movable along the first trough and configured to engage a second end of the second tubular. The first and second skates are configured to push a third end of the first tubular into engagement with a fourth end of the second tubular in the first trough. The apparatus also includes a tongs configured to engage the first and second tubulars in the first trough and apply torque thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Bradley Jonah, Kevin Denness
  • Patent number: 9309728
    Abstract: A tubular handling device includes a first arm movable along, and pivotable about, a first axis, and a first gripper to engage a first tubular member, the first gripper being coupled to the first arm and rotatable, relative to the first arm, about a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. According to another aspect, a method includes providing a first gripper; coupling a first arm to the first gripper, moving the first arm, pivoting the first arm, and rotating the first gripper, relative to the first arm. According to another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling tower, and a tubular handling device to position one or more tubular members proximate the drilling tower, the tubular handling device including a first gripper to engage a first tubular member, and a first arm coupled to the first gripper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: NABORS DRILLING INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Patent number: 8998551
    Abstract: A system for delivering a downhole tubular from a rack at an oilfield surface to a rig floor thereat. The system includes a trough for accommodating the tubular that is slidably engaged with a lift frame in a sledded fashion. Thus, for delivery of the tubular, the trough may be sleddingly extended from the lift frame. That is, as opposed to a roller type of coupling between the trough and tubular, a sledded coupling is utilized that may require comparatively less maintenance and mobilization time. This may be particularly the case where lighter weight tubulars of less than about 1,000 lbs., preferably under about 500 lbs., are being delivered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Nestor D. Guillory, Jr., Robert W. Menard
  • Patent number: 8949416
    Abstract: A master control system with remote monitoring that can perform, monitor, and control operations of a portable rig with a vertical pipe handler as the vertical pipe handler installs tubulars into a drill string or breaks out tubulars from a drill string for a wellbore. The master control system can include a server, a network, a data storage, and a plurality of client devices with an executive dashboard of rig functions viewable by individual users connected to the network. In embodiments, a computing cloud is used with a cloud server with processor and cloud data storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignees: Canyon Oak Energy LLC, Loadmaster Universal Rigs, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Michael Barnes, James A. Zapico
  • Publication number: 20150010377
    Abstract: Equipment for moving tubular members from a storage rack to an elevated platform floor is disclosed. A base-mounted articulated support structure has an arcuate trough mounted on top thereof. Loading arms are secured to a side of the pivotal trough for picking up one tubular member from the rack and moving to the platform floor. Unloading arms detachably securable to the trough facilitate movement of the tubular members from the platform floor onto the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: WARRIOR ENERGY SERVICES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Thomas Dale Hilton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8899901
    Abstract: Equipment for moving tubular members from a storage rack to an elevated platform floor is disclosed. A base-mounted articulated support structure has an arcuate trough mounted on top thereof. Loading arms are secured to a side of the pivotal trough for picking up one tubular member from the rack and moving to the platform floor. Unloading arms detachably securable to the trough facilitate movement of the tubular members from the platform floor onto the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Warrior Energy Services Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas Dale Hilton
  • Patent number: 8888432
    Abstract: A tubular delivery stand utilized for lifting a length of pipe to a desired level is disclosed. The tubular delivery stand may also serve as a support stand for a pipe pickup and laydown apparatus in order to increase the height of the lift capable by the referenced pickup and laydown apparatus. The tubular delivery stand is constructed of two similarly configured stand sub-frames that are pinned together at their base to form a complete stand frame. Elevator columns that support an elevator assembly is provided for raising and lowering pipe along the side of the deliver stand. A pipe removal assembly is provided for laying down pipe onto a pipe rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventors: Perry Guidroz, Donald R. Harrington, Alfred J. Thomas, III
  • Patent number: 8851202
    Abstract: A method and a device for transporting pipe string sections (2) between a storage unit (1) wherein the longitudinal axes of the pipe string sections are arranged horizontally and a position of use in a drill rig (32) where the longitudinal axes of the pipe string sections (2) are arranged vertically and where the pipe string sections (2) are displaceable by means of a pipe manipulator (40), and where the method comprises:—positioning a transport frame (14) for pipe string sections (2) at the storage unit (1), as the transport frame (14) is rotatable about a rotary axis (16) which in the position of use is parallel to the pipe string sections (2), and wherein the transport frame (14) is provided with a number of fasteners (18) for the pipe string sections (2); and—displacing a pipe string section (2) from the storage unit (1) and placing the pipe string section (2) in the transport frame (14), alternatively disengaging the pipe string section (2) from the transport frame (14) and placing the pipe string sectio
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Standlifter Holdings AS
    Inventor: Leif Salthaug
  • Patent number: 8845260
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for moving pipe between pipe storage racks and a pipe handler on a pipe deck of a drilling rig. The apparatus is capable of retrieving pipe from tiered stacks of pipe in a pipe rack located behind Samson posts, and moving the pipe up and over the Samson posts onto a pipe stand or pipe handler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Markwater Handling Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Andrew Virgil Gerber
  • Patent number: 8840352
    Abstract: A pipe handling catwalk is provided for moving tubulars or pipe to and from a work floor of well drilling or service rigs. The catwalk includes a variable height V-door for guiding pipe to the work floor. The V-door is made of a series of sequential pivotally attached segments that can extend from, and retract into, the catwalk at an angle relative to the catwalk along a guide track disposed at an end of the catwalk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Rangeland Industrial Services Ltd
    Inventors: Mark Charles Taggart, Kevin John Scott Kerr
  • Patent number: 8827008
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: John Benjamin Hankins, Baldwin Zahn
  • Patent number: 8660758
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a payload calculation system for use with a work implement having at least two linkage members. The payload calculation system may have at least one state sensor configured to measure a state of the at least two linkage members. The payload calculation system may also have a processing device in communication with the at least one state sensor. The processing device may account for changes in a center of gravity of each of the at least two linkage members. The processing device may also be configured to use the at least one state sensor to determine a mass of a payload moved by the work implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Vijayakumar Janardhan, Jeffrey Kent Berry, Brian Mintah, Everett Gene Brandt, Robert J. Price, Kevin Dwight King
  • Publication number: 20130186643
    Abstract: A method to add a joint of pipe to a conductor string includes securing the conductor string with a spider, grasping an upper end of the joint of pipe with a segmented-ring elevator, engaging a plurality of slips of the elevator with an outer profile of the joint of pipe, raising the grasped joint of pipe from non-vertical to vertical, positioning the vertical joint of pipe atop the secured conductor string, attaching the joint of pipe to the conductor string, releasing the conductor string from the spider, and retaining the joint of pipe and the conductor string with the segmented-ring elevator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy Richard Angelle, Logan Essex Smith
  • Patent number: 8408334
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
  • Patent number: 8215887
    Abstract: A pipe-handling apparatus adapted to move pipe to and from a drilling floor of a drilling rig including a ramp extendable between a main support structure and the drilling floor, a pipe carrier mounted on the main support structure configured to move between lower and elevated positions over the ramp, a lift arm including a first end and a second end and being pivotally connected at its first end adjacent the far end of the carrier and operable below the carrier to lift and support the carrier's far end to an elevated position, a track on the main support structure for supporting the carrier and the lift arm, and a drive system that pivots or moves the lift arm up about a track stop to lift the far end of the carrier and moves the near end up and over the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Larry M. Fikowski, Glenda Fikowski, legal representative, Douglas A. Hunter, Friedhold Brost
  • Publication number: 20120170998
    Abstract: A system has a pipe handling apparatus with an arm between a first position and a second position, a derrick having a window through which the pipe handling system delivers a pipe to a wellhead, and a header mounted in the window of the derrick. The header receives the arm of the pipe handling system when the arm is in the second position. An outside surface of the header suitably fits within the window of the derrick. An inside surface of the derrick suitably receives the arm. The inside surface resists an upward motion and a sideways motion of the arm. The header has a body that has a head and legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: T&T ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
  • Patent number: 7992646
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford Canada Partnership
    Inventors: Monte Neil Wright, Roman Vakulin
  • Patent number: 7832974
    Abstract: A pipe-handling apparatus for moving a pipe to and from a drilling floor of a drilling rig includes a main support structure, a ramp extendable between the main support structure and the drilling floor, a pipe carrier mounted on the main support structure for moving relative thereto between a lower position and an elevated position over the ramp, the carrier including a ramp end adjacent the ramp, an far end, and an elongate indentation on its upper surface to accommodate a pipe therein, a lift arm including a first end and a second end, the lift arm being pivotally connected at its first end adjacent the far end of the carrier and operable below the carrier to lift and support the carrier's far end to an elevated position, a track on the main support structure for supporting axial sliding motion of the carrier and the lift arm therealong, the track including a stop for limiting axial movement of the second end of the lift arm along the track toward the ramp, and a drive system for pulling the carrier from th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Larry M. Fikowski, Glenda Fikowski, legal representative, Douglas A. Hunter, Friedhold Brost
  • Publication number: 20100163247
    Abstract: 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 tubluars 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: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Monte Neil Wright, Roman Vakulin
  • Publication number: 20100135750
    Abstract: Methods and systems of for tripping pipe on a rig floor positioned over a well are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: ZAURAYZE TARIQUE
  • Publication number: 20100104401
    Abstract: A system includes a rack with rows for storing drill pipe, and a moveable structure having a control support coupled to an upper portion and a lifting device coupled to a lower portion. The moveable structure travels along a guide for positioning adjacent any of the rows. The control support includes a pivoting actuator, a rotating actuator, an extension arm having a drill pipe capture actuator, and an extension actuator. The lifting device includes a lifting actuator that raises a stack of drill pipe. The system further includes a controller that interprets a control support state including actuator positions and a position index value, and records a position description including the control support state corresponding to the position index value. The controller interprets a position request signal and provides actuator control signals in response to the position request signal and the position description.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: James R. Hopkins, Calvin Moore, Jason Hause, Alan Benedict
  • Patent number: 7699122
    Abstract: A device for handling and storage of drill string sections, and assembly or disassembly of a drill string on an installation especially intended for exploratory and/or production drilling for hydrocarbons, where: at least one set of individual, separate cooperating means of transport is arranged to move a drill string section or a single drill pipe length in synchronized motion; where a) a primary means of transport is provided with a first gripping device for releasably holding a lower end portion of the drill string section or drill pipe length; b) a secondary means of transport is provided with a first means of lateral support for releasably enclosing an upper end portion of the drill string section or drill pipe length; and c) each means of transport is displaceable along a substantially horizontal or vertical guideway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Morten Eriksen
  • Patent number: 7665944
    Abstract: A method for lifting, stacking or otherwise manipulating a length of pipe is provided which includes the steps of providing a longitudinally orientated base frame; providing a movable carriage supported on the base frame, and providing a pipe lifting structure mounted to the carriage for independently supporting a length of pipe in a longitudinal position with respect to the base frame. The pipe lifting structure has first and second telescopically extendable lifting arm assemblies that are pivotally mounted to a longitudinally orientated pipe trough for supporting a length of pipe in the pipe trough. A means for pivotally raising and lowering the lifting arm assemblies and thereby said pipe trough and support length of pipe is provided. The method includes providing means for pivotally raising and lowering the lifting arm assemblies remotely located from the pipe lifting structure. Hydraulic cylinders and rams are provided to move the lifting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Perry J. Guidroz
  • Publication number: 20100034619
    Abstract: A system has a pipe handling apparatus with an arm moving between a first position and a second position, a derrick having a window through which the pipe handling system delivers a pipe to a well head, and a header mounted in the window of the derrick. The header receives the arm of the pipe handling system when the arm is in the second position. An outside surface of the header suitably fits within the window of the derrick. An inside surface of the derrick suitably receives the arm. The inside surface resists an upward motion and a sideways motion of the arm. The header has a body that has a head and legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: T&T ENGINEERING SERVICES
    Inventor: Keith J. ORGERON
  • Publication number: 20100021271
    Abstract: An elongate item handling means comprising a base (11) adapted to be fixed to a fixture, an elongate member support (13) having a first axis, the elongate member support comprising an engagement means (19) adapted to engage an elongate item and support the elongate item such that it is parallel to the first axis and to move the elongate item into engagement with the elongate member support, wherein the elongate member support is supported from the base to be rotatable about a second axis which is transverse to the first axis whereby the elongate item when supported from the elongate member support can be moved between an upright position and a substantially horizontal position, the base being movable on the fixture between a first position located at a desired erect position of the elongate item and one or more positions clear of the first position, said elongate member support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Keith Littlely
  • Patent number: 7635249
    Abstract: A self-contained, freestanding, modular, portable pipe pick-up and laydown apparatus. The apparatus includes a movable carriage and carriage rail supported on base frame. The base frame includes means for moving the carriage along the length of base frame. The apparatus also includes a pipe trough supported on first and second telescoping pipe trough lifting assemblies pivotally mounted on the carriage. The pipe trough is semicircular in configuration which serves to cradle and manipulate a joint of pipe. Jacks are used to lift and tilt upward the telescoping pipe trough lifting assembles to raise the pipe trough and any supported pipe. The pipe trough may be leveled and otherwise manipulated by extension and retraction of the trough lifting assemblies. A hydraulic lift and detachable hinges are used to pivot the pipe trough on its edges as desired. The invention also provides a movable pipe jack and reversible pipe guides to facilitate the loading and unloading of pipe to and from the pipe trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventor: Perry J. Guidroz
  • Publication number: 20090252576
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for moving a tubular member to and from an elevated drilling rig floor. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a support structure configured to be positioned adjacent a pipe rack. A carrier is moveably coupled to the support structure, and a carriage is moveably coupled to the carrier. A trough extends longitudinally over the support structure and is moveably coupled to the carriage, the trough being configured to receive a tubular member. The trough is operable to tilt relative to the support structure. A lift arm is operable to move the carriage relative to the support structure thereby also moving the tubular member received in the trough. Indexers may urge the tubular member toward or away from the trough. Pick up arms are operable to retrieve a tubular member from an adjacent pipe rack, or to place the tubular there for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew Gerber, Douglas A. Hunter
  • Publication number: 20090238663
    Abstract: According to one example of the invention, a drill rod handler includes a movable clamp. A position sensor system for the drill rod handler includes a level sensor that is configured to detect a position of the moveable clamp with respect to gravity. The position sensor system further includes a rotation sensor configured to detect a rotational position of the moveable clamp with respect to a defined axis that runs parallel to gravity. Furthermore, the position sensor system includes a control center that is communicably connected to the level sensor and the rotation sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: Longyear TM, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith W Littlely
  • Patent number: 7584809
    Abstract: A transport rig having at least one duel axel, with a single point suspension. The transport rig has at least two pneumatic independently and vertically adjustable load supporting axels. A rig floor is mounted above the axels. The rig floor can have a drawworks assembly, a drive engine operatively connected to the drawworks assembly, and a second engine for providing hydraulic power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Eagle Rock Manufacruting, LLC
    Inventor: Sammy Kent Flud
  • Publication number: 20090185883
    Abstract: A vertical off-line stand building system includes a mast having a basal portion and an upper portion. An upper pipe elevator is mounted in the upper portion of the mast and is selectively translatable by a selecting actuable first hoist between upper raised and lowered positions. A lower pipe elevator is mounted in the basal portion of the mast and is selectively translatable by a selecting actuable second hoist between basal raised and lowered positions. A horizontal pipe support table is positioned adjacent the base of the mast. A horizontal pipe translator is mounted in the table for translating a pipe single longitudinally along the table so as to engage a first end of the pipe single with the lower pipe elevator when in its basal lowered position. The lower pipe elevator draws the first pipe into the mast through a front opening in the mast. The upper pipe elevator takes the first pipe and elevates it to the top of the mast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Monte Neil Wright, George (Guo Qiang) Hu
  • Publication number: 20090136326
    Abstract: A cableway transport system for moving tubulars between a supply of tubulars and a rig mast implements a gondola suspended and movable along load cables. The gondola is fit with grippers for carrying tubulars between the rack and mast. The gondola has a first landing coupler which is received and releasably couples to a second landing coupler on the mast for forming a landing connection. The landing connection enables rotation of the gondola to align the carried tubular with the wellhead. The grippers can be individually actuable to allow finer alignment of the tubular above the wellhead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Per ANGMAN
  • Patent number: 7503394
    Abstract: A four-cornered, open frame, connected either to a top drive or to a traveling block, has an elevator at its lower end used to support the weight of the tubular string, and has a mud tool, a stabber, a guide, a spinner, a tong, a stabbing guide and a backup tong carried by the frame. A manipulator arm picks up a horizontal tubular, manipulates the tubular to vertical, and moves the tubular into the interior of the frame, allowing the tubular to be made up in the string while the string is being lowered into the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Frank's Casing & Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Vernon J. Bouligny
  • Publication number: 20090056932
    Abstract: A teeter beam assembly is provided for attachment to a pipe launcher that can be tilted towards or away from the pipe launcher to move joints of drilling pipe on to or off of the pipe launcher by rolling pipes with the assistance of gravity. The teeter beams assembly can consist of a frame, a pair of vertical guide assemblies on each of the outer and inner ends of the frame, a longitudinal beam glidably coupled to the guide assemblies and a pair of rams coupling the beam to the frame for raising and lowering either end of the beam with respect to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: GERALD LESKO
  • Publication number: 20080304938
    Abstract: A modified strongback for laying pipeline offshore that utilizes a movable clamp. One end of the strongback is modified to include a travel mechanism. A pipe clamp is mounted on the travel mechanism to allow movement of the clamp as necessary to accommodate different pipe joint lengths. A mechanism for locking the clamp in the desired position is provided on the strongback.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventors: Brian Michael Katterhenry, Ravi Kumar Kannan, William Joseph Wilson, Kevin Patrick Zaeringer, McArthur Bassett, Mark Thomas Alexander, JR., Roy Stephen Heitkamp
  • Patent number: 7431550
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method and apparatus for handling a tubular above a wellbore. In one aspect, the present invention provides a pipe handling apparatus operable with a pipe pick-up and lay-down machine. The pipe handling apparatus includes at least one arm having a first end and a second end and at least one stop member coupled to the second end of the arm. Preferably, the first end is pivotally coupled to the pipe pick-up and lay-down machine. The pipe handling apparatus may be actuated to limit movement of the tubular as it is moved toward the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Technologies Alliance
    Inventor: Carroll R. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20080138174
    Abstract: A self supporting pick-up and lay-down pipe handling system and method provides apparatuses and methods including a telescopingly extendable pipe trough which is telescopingly extendable from a lift frame, a lift frame movable by extendable lifts, and a movable lift frame with a conveyor system. The lift frame is preferably pivotally moveable with respect to a support. A rotating mechanism may be utilized which is operable for rotating the pipe trough to either lateral side for unloading and/or loading purposes. A lift frame with slidable powered lift heads is provided to raise and lower pipes from a pipe rack to the pipe trough. A pivotal guide member on the slidable powered lift head to pivot into a guiding position for guiding pipe from the lift frame onto the pipe trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Samuel P. Hawkins
  • Publication number: 20080101891
    Abstract: This application relates to a pipe storage and handling system having a stationary frame, a tilting frame moveably coupled to the stationary frame, a pipe rack moveably coupled to the tilting frame and an arm. The pipe rack includes a storage end configured to support a plurality of pipes. The tilting frame includes a loading end and is moveable between a loading position where the loading end is positioned at a higher elevation than the storage end and an unloading position wherein the storage end is positioned at a higher elevation than the loading end. The system includes an arm to engage a single pipe and move the single pipe onto or off of the tilting frame. The pipe rack may move the pipes vertically relative to the tilting frame. The pipe rack may support a cartridge for retaining the pipes. The system may include a pipe erector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.
    Inventor: Jaroslav Belik
  • Patent number: 7363991
    Abstract: A system and method for lifting and translating extended length objects includes a power roller assembly attached to an extendable mast. When a roller on the power roller assembly contacts the outer surface of the extended length object, extension or retraction of the extendable mast enables lifting or lowering of the end of the extended length object. Rotation of the roller on the power roller assembly translates the position of the extended length object in a direction parallel to the long axis of the extended length object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Dean Baer
  • Patent number: 7163367
    Abstract: A system for adjusting the height of a boom on a pipe handling apparatus. A cavity is formed in the base between proximal and distal ends. The boom is nestable in said cavity and has a distal end guided along the base. A pivoting member is pivotally coupled to said boom for raising a proximal end for positioned adjacent a work floor for handling of pipe therebetween. A plurality of ports are arranged along the boom at a pre-determined spacing. A plurality of ports are is similarly arranged along the same predetermined spacing along the pivoting member. The spacing of the boom and arm ports is such that a hinge pin can engage any one of corresponding pairs of boom and arm port when the boom is lowered to nestle inside the cavity as each boom port corresponds with an arm port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Forum Canada ULC
    Inventor: Richard A. Handley
  • Patent number: 7011166
    Abstract: An automatic pipe handling system for automatically transporting pipe sections to and from a horizontal boring machine. The system comprises a pipe handling assembly, a pipe lubrication assembly, a makeup/breakout assembly, and an automatic control system. The pipe handling assembly stores pipe sections and transports the pipe sections to and from the drill string of a boring machine. As the pipe handling assembly transports a pipe section, the pipe lubrication assembly lubricates the appropriate pipe joints. The makeup/breakout assembly secures the drill string and pipe joints so that pipe sections can be added to or removed from the drill string. A programmed controller automatically operates the pipe handling system and its components by synchronizing the operations of the pipe handling system. The controller sequences and times the operation of each aspect of the pipe handling system during both the boring operation and the backreaming operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Geoff D. Koch, Brad E. Mitchell, David A. Rorabaugh
  • Patent number: 6997265
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving pipe on a rig floor between a number of different stations including an off-floor rack, a preparation opening, a borehole, and a storage area, such that tubulars can be loaded onto the drill floor, prepared at the preparation opening, loaded onto or off of the storage rack, and connected to a drill string while drilling is simultaneously conducted at the borehole, comprising at least two pipehandling devices, at least one of the pipehandling devices having multiple independent gripping arms, the pipehandling devices being arranged for communicating pipe between a storage area off the drill floor, a storage area on the drill floor, at least one preparation opening, and a drill opening are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe Berry
  • Patent number: 6994505
    Abstract: A pick-up and lay-down pipe handling system and method provides a telescopingly extendable pipe trough which is telescopingly extendable from a lift frame. The lift frame is preferably pivotally moveable with respect to a support. A tilting mechanism is operable for tilting the pipe trough to either lateral side for unloading and/or loading purposes. A lift frame with slidable powered lift heads is provided to raise and lower pipes from a pipe rack to the pipe trough. A pivotal guide member on the slidable powered lift head to pivot into a guiding position for guiding pipe from the lift frame onto the pipe trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Frank's International
    Inventor: Samuel P. Hawkins, III
  • Patent number: 6976540
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving pipe on a rig floor between a number of different stations are provided. Generally the apparatus includes pipehandling equipment arranged to interact with an off-floor rack, a preparation opening, a borehole, and a storage area, such that tubulars can be loaded onto the drill floor, prepared at the preparation opening, loaded onto or off of the storage rack, and connected to a drill string while drilling is simultaneously conducted at borehole. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two pipehandling devices for communicating pipe between a storage area off the drill floor, a storage area on the drill floor, at least one preparation opening, and a drill opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe Berry
  • Patent number: 6969223
    Abstract: A pipe handling apparatus for transporting pipe between a position adjacent a pipe storage rack and a rig floor elevated above the pipe storage rack is provided. The pipe handling apparatus includes a support frame, substantially horizontally disposed platform supported by the support frame having a pipe receiving groove formed therein for receiving the joint of pipe, a carriage member, and a pusher member. The carriage member is movable from a lowered position wherein the joint of pipe which is positioned in the pipe receiving groove of the platform is supported in a substantially horizontal position and a raised position wherein the carriage member supports a first end of the joint of pipe at an elevated position relative to an opposed second end of the joint of pipe. The pusher member is movable along the pipe receiving groove between a retracted position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Hydra-Walk, Inc.
    Inventors: E. Kent Tolmon, Ronald D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6966106
    Abstract: The invention is a transporting apparatus for holding lengths of tubulars and transporting tubulars to a drill floor of a drill rig, wherein the transport container for tubulars has a bottom side, a two sides connected to the bottom side, and two ends connected to the bottom side and the sides, wherein there is at least two tubular supports for supporting a plurality of tubulars secured to the two sides adapted to support a row of tubulars and to act as a guide to allow the tubulars to be inserted upward or downward into the container, each support is made of at least two parallel upright members for slidingly receiving an end of a tubular and preventing horizontal movement of the tubulars perpendicular to the side and at least one connector is located on one end and a second connector is located on the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: ITREC B.V.
    Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Diederick Bernardus Wijning