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US 11,598,196 B2Granted
Universal rig controller interface
AssigneeNational Oilwell Varco, L.P.
InventorsChristian Younes, Michael Mayerich
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A rig control interface includes a plurality of interface systems. Each of the interface systems is configured to manipulate a rig control based on a signal received from an automated rig control system. The interface systems includes a mechanical control interface. The mechanical control interface includes an actuator configured to mechanically move a control handle from a first position to a second position responsive to the signal.
Claims25
A universal rig control interface, comprising:
- a plurality of interface systems, each of the plurality of interface systems configured to manipulate a rig tool based on a signal received from an automated rig control system, the plurality of interface systems comprising:
- a mechanical control interface, comprising:
- an actuator configured to mechanically move a control handle from a first position to a second position responsive to the signal;
- and
- a coupler comprising:
- an engaging structure comprising:
- a first plate and a second plate configured to exert pressure on a front side and a back side of the control handle, wherein the control handle is a knob mounted on an operator control panel;
- and
- a splined shaft extending from the first plate, the splined shaft configured to be rotated by the actuator.
6 more elements
A method for controlling a rig, comprising:
- measuring, by an automated rig control system, a rig control parameter;
- determining, by the automated rig control system, based on the measured rig control parameter, a change to a value of the rig control parameter;
- activating, by the automated rig control system, a motor responsive to the determining;
- applying rotation of the motor to mechanically move a control handle of the rig via a coupler that engages the control handle, wherein the coupler comprises:
- an engaging structure comprising:
- a first plate and a second plate configured to exert pressure on a front side and a back side of the control handle, wherein the control handle is a knob mounted on an operator control panel;
- and
- a splined shaft extending from the first plate, the splined shaft configured to be rotated by the motor;
- and
- measuring, by a sensor coupled to the control handle, a position of the control handle.
7 more elements
A method for automating control of a rig, comprising:
- mounting a coupler on a mechanical control handle of the rig;
- wherein:
- movement of the mechanical control handle changes a signal that controls a tool of the rig;
- the mechanical control handle is a knob mounted on an operator control panel;
- and
- the coupler comprises:
- an engaging structure comprising:
- a first plate and a second plate configured to exert pressure on a front side and a back side of the knob;
- and
- a splined shaft extending from the first plate;
- connecting an electric motor to the coupler, the motor configured to rotate the splined shaft;
- connecting an automated rig control system to the electric motor;
- monitoring, by the automated rig control system, a sensor that measures a value of a parameter of the tool;
- generating, by the automated rig control system, a control signal to change the value of the parameter of the tool;
- activating the electric motor responsive to the signal;
- and
- moving, by the electric motor, the mechanical control handle to change the value of the parameter of the tool.
14 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.