Retractable top drive with torque tube
US11060361B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 1, 2017 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 9, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B19/16
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A retractable top drive for use with a drilling rig and process for operating a drilling rig. The retractable top drive comprises a dolly having a pair of mast rails in translatable relation to a mast, such as sliding. A yoke pivotally connects a torque tube to the dolly and the top drive is connected to the torque tube, so that a substantial portion of the top drive is positioned lower than a substantial portion of the dolly. An extendable actuator is connected between the dolly and the yoke to translate the top drive to/from the dolly. Torque is transferred from the top drive through the torque tube, yoke and dolly into the mast of the drill rig.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.