Automated end fitting installation system and method
AssigneeFinalrod IP, LLC
InventorRussell P. Rutledge
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Sucker rods include end fittings having an outer wedge portion proximate to an open end, an inner wedge portion proximate to a closed end, and an intermediate wedge portion between the outer and inner wedges. Each wedge includes a leading edge, a trailing edge, and an angle between the leading and trailing edges. The triangular configuration, length of the leading edge, the length of the trailing edge, and size of the angle in each wedge portion cause distribution of force, such that compressive forces distributed to the rod proximate the closed end exceed compressive forces distributed to the rod proximate the open end. An automated installation procedure installs the end fitting through the use of multiple chucks, positioned by servo motors along a fitting table.
Claims20
A method for installing an end fitting onto a sucker rod comprising:
- aligning an end of a sucker rod with a first chuck positioned on a surface by positioning the sucker rod within at least one locating slot;
- placing an end fitting containing adhesive into a second chuck positioned on the surface, with the open end of the end fitting facing out;
- engaging the second chuck with the end fitting;
- moving the first chuck and the second chuck along the surface towards the sucker rod, such that the rod passes through an orifice into the first chuck;
- engaging the first chuck with the sucker rod and fixing the position of the first chuck relative to the surface;
- rotating the second chuck and the end fitting engaged therein as the open end of the end fitting approaches the sucker rod;
- moving the second chuck along the surface towards the first chuck, such that the end fitting is placed over an end of the sucker rod while rotating, until the end fitting reaches a predetermined position;
- disengaging the first and second chucks;
- and
- moving the first chuck and second chuck along the surface away from the rod, leaving the end fitting adhered thereon.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.