Weatherford International has been granted a patent for a drive unit in a top drive system. The system includes a drive stem with ports, sliding coupling members, a coupling collar with actuation surfaces, and a tool stem for torque coupling. Spring elements and actuators are also included for functionality. GlobalData’s report on Weatherford International gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Weatherford International, Oil well fracking was a key innovation area identified from patents. Weatherford International's grant share as of February 2024 was 70%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Drive unit for torque coupling in top drive system
A drive unit for a top drive system has been granted a patent (Publication Number: US11920411B2). The drive unit comprises a drive stem with ports, sliding coupling members, a coupling collar with linear actuation surfaces and annular recessed surfaces, and a tool stem with coupling recesses. Spring elements and actuators are also included in the design to provide torque coupling between the drive stem and the tool stem, as well as axial load coupling. The design allows for movement of the coupling collar along the axis of the drive stem, providing versatility and efficiency in operation.
Furthermore, the drive unit includes a vector transmission unit to move the sliding coupling members between retracted and extended positions, enhancing the torque coupling between the drive stem and the tool stem. The tool stem features a polygonal head for engagement with a mating polygonal recess in the drive stem, ensuring a secure connection. The hydraulic coupling unit generates a hydraulic impulse upon coupling of the drive unit to the tool adapter, causing the sliding coupling members to engage the coupling recesses and provide axial load coupling. Overall, the patented drive unit offers a sophisticated and innovative solution for top drive systems, improving performance and reliability in various drilling operations.
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GlobalData’s Patent Analytics tracks patent filings and grants from official offices around the world. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
