Electronic control system for a tubular handling tool

US10697256B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC · US

Inventors

• Michael Wiedecke · Salzhemmendorf, DE
• Bjoern Thiemann · Burgwedel, DE
• Karsten Heidecke · Houston, US
• Martin Liess · Seelze, DE
• Martin Helms · Burgdorf, DE
• John D. Hooker, II · Houma, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 27, 2016
• Grant date: Jun 30, 2020
• Expiry date: Apr 9, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC E): Fixed Constructions
• CPC primary: E21B19/06
• WIPO field: Civil engineering
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

An electronic control system comprises a first tubular handling tool, a sensor, and a controller. The controller is configured to control actuation of the first tubular handling tool in response to an electronic signal received from the sensor that corresponds to an operational characteristic of the first tubular handling tool. The electronic control system functions as an electronic interlock system to prevent mishandling of a tubular. A method of controlling a tubular handling tool comprises measuring an operational characteristic of the tubular handling tool, communicating the operational characteristic to a controller in the form of an electronic signal, and using the controller to control actuation of the tubular handling tool in response to the measured operational characteristic.