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US 2017/0370420 A1Published application
Universal Joint
AssigneeUlterra Drilling Technologies, L.P.
InventorsCarl Aron Deen, Justin S. McMillan
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A universal joint assembled in a drill string transfers torque between two shafts where the shafts are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes a cable that passes through joint components. The cable limits separation or deflection of the joint components.
Claims26
Apparatus for use in downhole operations comprising:
- a top joint member with a first axis of rotation;
- a bottom joint member with a second axis of rotation, the bottom joint member positioned with respect to the top joint member to receive torque from the top joint members;
- a bearing element between the top joint member and the bottom joint member for transmitting compressive loads between the top joint member and the bottom joint member while permitting the top joint member and bottom joint member to pivot with respect to each other;
- and
- a cable connecting the top joint member and the bottom joint member, extending through the bearing element, for preventing separation of the top joint member and the bottom joint member beyond a predetermined limit.
2 more elements
Apparatus for use in downhole operations, comprising:
- a drill string;
- and
- a tool connected incorporated into the drill string;
- wherein the tool comprises an articulating joint, and the articulating joint comprises:
- a top joint member with a first axis of rotation;
- a bottom joint member with a second axis of rotation, the bottom joint member positioned with respect to the top joint member to receive torque from the top joint members;
- means for bearing between the top joint member and the bottom joint member for transmitting compressive loads between the top joint member and the bottom joint member while permitting the top joint member and bottom joint member to pivot with respect to each other;
- and.
- a cable connecting the top joint member and the bottom joint member, extending through the means for bearing, for preventing separation of the top joint member and the bottom joint member beyond a predetermined limit.
6 more elements
A method of transferring torque through an articulating joint in drill string within a well bore, the articulating joint comprising:
- a top joint member with a first axis of rotation, a bottom joint member with a second axis of rotation, the bottom joint member positioned with respect to the top joint member to receive torque from the top joint members;
- a bearing element between the top joint member and the bottom joint member for transmitting compressive loads between the top joint member and the bottom joint member while permitting the top joint member and bottom joint member to pivot with respect to each other;
- and
- a cable connecting the top joint member and the bottom joint member, extending through the bearing element, for preventing separation of the top joint member and the bottom joint member beyond a predetermined limit;
- the method comprising:
- lowering the drill string into a wellbore;
- and
- applying torque to the top joint member.
5 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.