Abstract
An impact hammer sleeve for oil and gas conductor operations that eliminates the need for a drive adapter. The impact hammer sleeve can include interior and exterior wall regions and a plurality of biasing members disposed within the interior wall region of the tubular sleeve, wherein the tubular sleeve is configured to receive a conductor pipe and connector therein. Here, the tubular sleeve can help centralize and secure a hammer atop the conductor pipe and connector while maintaining an adequate sleeve gap via the plurality of biasing members, among other advantages.
Claims
1. An impact hammer sleeve assembly for oil and gas conductor pipe operations, comprising: a tubular sleeve member having interior and exterior wall regions; a hammer above the conductor pipe; a plurality of bowed biasing members attached to and extending radially within the interior wall region of the tubular sleeve in a radial pattern; and wherein the tubular sleeve is configured to receive the conductor pipe and a connector therein in order to stabilize the hammer.
2. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the plurality of biasing members comprise a first end and second end secured to a mount.
3. The sleeve of claim 2, wherein the mount further comprises a channel for receiving the second end of each biasing member therein, such that the second end is adapted to slide within the channel.
4. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the plurality of biasing members are configured to engage the conductor pipe and connector.
5. The sleeve of claim 2, wherein the plurality of biasing members are secured to the interior wall region of the tubular sleeve via the mount.
6. The sleeve of claim 2, wherein the plurality of biasing members are secured to the exterior wall region of the tubular sleeve via the mount.
7. The sleeve of claim 2, wherein the tubular sleeve further comprises a plurality of openings for receiving a plurality of fasteners of the mount.
8. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the bowed biasing members are further comprised of a leaf spring.
9. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of bowed springs are disposed vertically lengthwise within the interior wall region of the tubular sleeve in the radial pattern.
10. A method of installing an impact hammer sleeve for oil and gas conductor pipe operations, comprising: lowering a tubular sleeve member, wherein the tubular sleeve member comprises interior and exterior wall regions, and wherein the tubular sleeve further comprises a plurality of bowed biasing members disposed within the interior wall region of the tubular sleeve in a radial pattern; and sliding the tubular sleeve over a conductor pipe and a connector, wherein the conductor pipe and the connector engages the plurality of bowed biasing members of the tubular sleeve, thereby stabilizing a hammer above the conductor pipe.
11. A method of installing an impact hammer sleeve for oil and gas conductor pipe operations, comprising: lowering a tubular sleeve member, wherein the tubular sleeve member comprises interior and exterior wall regions, and wherein the tubular sleeve further comprises a plurality of bowed biasing members disposed within the interior wall region of the tubular sleeve in a radial pattern; and sliding the tubular sleeve over a conductor pipe and a connector, wherein the conductor pipe and connector engages the plurality of bowed biasing members of the tubular sleeve, thereby centering the conductor pipe and stabilizing a hammer above the conductor pipe.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) The following description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings are numbered in like fashion. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
(2) FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a DDCS apparatus of the disclosure described herein having integrated ball spring inserts.
(3) FIG. 1B illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 1A.
(4) FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a DDCS apparatus of the disclosure described herein having integrated plunger-style spring inserts.
(5) FIG. 2B illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 2A.
(6) FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a DDCS apparatus of the disclosure described herein having integrated bow spring inserts.
(7) FIG. 3B illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 3A.
(8) FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a DDCS apparatus of the present invention having integrated biased scissor inserts.
(9) FIG. 4B illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 4A.
(10) FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective front view for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a DDCS apparatus of the disclosure described herein having a split-hinged and latching body with fixed inserts.
(11) FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective rear view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 5A.
(12) FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate partial cross-sectional views for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 1A in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown secured to a hammer and anvil housing, wherein a conductor pipe, connector and PDL are shown below, passing vertically through and flexing the inserts and finally contacting the anvil and securing to the hammer assembly.
(13) FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate partial cross-sectional views for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 2A in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown attached to a hammer and anvil housing, wherein a conductor pipe, connector and PDL are shown below, passing vertically through and flexing the inserts and finally contacting the anvil and securing to the hammer assembly.
(14) FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate partial cross-sectional views for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 3A in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown attached to a hammer and anvil housing, wherein a conductor pipe, connector and PDL are shown below, passing vertically through and flexing the inserts and finally contacting the anvil and securing to the hammer assembly.
(15) FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate partial cross-sectional views for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 4A in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown attached to a hammer and anvil housing, wherein a conductor pipe, connector and PDL are shown below, passing vertically through and flexing the inserts and finally contacting the anvil and securing to the hammer assembly.
(16) FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate perspective views for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 5A in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown attached to a hammer and anvil housing, wherein a conductor pipe, connector and PDL are shown below, passing vertically through the opened body with fixed inserts.
(17) FIG. 10C illustrates a perspective and partial cross-sectional view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 5A in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown attached to a hammer and anvil housing, wherein a conductor pipe, connector and PDL are shown contacted to the anvil and secured to the hammer assembly after being closed.
(18) FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view for another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a DDCS apparatus of the disclosure described herein having integrated bow spring inserts.
(19) FIG. 12A illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11.
(20) FIG. 12B illustrates a top view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11.
(21) FIG. 13A illustrates a front view for the integrated bow spring inserts of the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11, according to tone non-limiting exemplary embodiment.
(22) FIG. 13B illustrates a side view for the integrated bow spring inserts of FIG. 13A.
(23) FIG. 13C illustrates a top view for the integrated bow spring inserts of FIG. 13A.
(24) FIG. 14A illustrates a top view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11, shown without the integrated bow springs.
(25) FIG. 14B illustrates a perspective view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11, shown without the integrated bow springs.
(26) FIG. 14C illustrates a left side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11, shown without the integrated bow springs.
(27) FIG. 14D illustrates a right side view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11, shown without the integrated bow springs.
(28) FIG. 15A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11 in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation, wherein the DDCS apparatus is shown being attached to a hammer and anvil housing.
(29) FIG. 15B illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view for the embodiment of FIG. 15A.
(30) FIG. 15C illustrates a perspective view for the embodiment of FIG. 15A.
(31) FIG. 15D illustrates a top view for the embodiment of FIG. 15A.
(32) FIG. 16A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view for the DDCS apparatus of FIG. 11 and FIG. 15A, wherein the DDCS apparatus is further shown being attached to a hammer and anvil housing.
(33) FIG. 16B illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view for the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(34) FIG. 16C illustrates a perspective view for the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(35) FIG. 16D illustrates a top view for the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(36) FIG. 17A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view for the DDCS apparatus of FIGS. 11, 15A, and 16A, wherein the DDCS apparatus is further shown attached to a hammer and anvil housing.
(37) FIG. 17B illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view for the embodiment of FIG. 17A.
(38) FIG. 17C illustrates a perspective view for the embodiment of FIG. 17A.
(39) FIG. 17D illustrates a top view for the embodiment of FIG. 17A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
(40) In the Brief Summary of the present disclosure above and in the Detailed Description of the disclosure described herein, and the claims below, and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the disclosure described herein. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the disclosure described herein in this specification includes all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the disclosure described herein, or a particular claim, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described herein, and in the disclosure described herein generally.
(41) The embodiments set forth below represent the necessary information to en-able those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure described herein and illustrate the best mode of practicing the disclosure described herein. In addition, the disclosure described herein does not require that all the advantageous features and all the advantages need to be incorporated into every embodiment of the disclosure described herein.
(42) FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate various views for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the DDCS apparatus of the present disclosure described herein. Here, DDCS apparatus 100 can include a tubular housing or casing having a plurality of inserts 200, which can also be referred to herein as ball spring plungers, biased ball bearings, ribs, gussets, biasing members, or the like. Here, inserts 200 can operate as biasing members disposed within the interior wall space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Specifically, each insert 200 is comprised of a ball or spherical object that can spin and rotate in static position while biased via a spring, such as a compressing spring. In addition, a housing or shell 202 disposed on the side walls of DDCS 100 may further house and receive their inserts 200 within a cavity of casing 202, wherein both the ball and biasing member can be secured therein. In addition, each casing 202 can include a lip or flange element that allows the ball of insert 200 to abut against it and prevent the ball of insert 200 from being removed or falling out of casing 212.
(43) Still referring to FIGS. 1A-1B, inserts 200 can deflect or move in a linear configuration or direction thereby recessing or contracting inwards and expanding outwards within the cavity of casing 202. Alternatively, inserts 200 can recess or contract inwards within the walls of DDCS 100 or within shell 202 in any direction in any plane. Further, DDCS apparatus 100 may also include a fastening connection ring 110 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to be fastened, secured and connected to an anvil housing and/or hammer. In addition, the tapered opening guide ring 120 will provide an opening for guiding and centralizing the conductor pipe and connector to enter the interior walled space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, DDCS 100 is shown with 36 inserts 200 disposed around the perimeter of its housing. However, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that DDCS 100 may include any number of inserts. In addition, the size and configuration of the inserts for DDCS will depend on the various tubular pipe diameter applications. For example, if a 40 inside diameter sleeve DDCS 100 is used which is to receive a 36 outside diameter pipe with a PDL lip that is 38 in outside diameter, then the applicable insert would be about 2 each in length (about 2 on one side of the wall and about 2 on an opposing side of the wall equating to about 4-in. total) in a static position to hold the 36 pipe center in place. In addition, the ball bearing of insert 200 may need to flex or deflect inwards into the housing or cavity of housing 202 about 1 each (about 1 on one side and about 1 on the opposing side equating to about 2 total) to allow the lip to pass through temporarily. However, if in another example, a 30 pipe with a 32 lip is to be inserted within DDCS 100, then inserts 200 may need to be replaced with larger and longer ones to accommodate for the different tubular pipe application.
(44) FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate various views for another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the DDCS apparatus of the present disclosure described herein. Here, DDCS apparatus 100 can include a tubular housing or casing having a plurality of inserts 210, which can also be referred to herein as bolt spring plungers, biased bolt or nail head style plungers, ribs, gussets, biasing members, or the like. Here, inserts 210 can operate as biasing members disposed within the interior wall space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Specifically, each insert 210 is comprised of a head and stem that is secured to one end of a biasing member, such as a compression spring. In addition, a housing or shell 212 disposed on the side walls of DDCS 100 may further house and receive inserts 210 within a cavity of casing 212, wherein both the ball and biasing member can be secured therein. In addition, each casing 212 can include a lip or flange element that allows the biasing member and proximal end of the plunger to abut against it and prevent the spring and plunger insert 210 from being removed or falling out of casing 212.
(45) Still referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, inserts 210 can deflect or move in a linear configuration or direction thereby recessing or contracting inwards and expanding outwards from the walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, inserts 210 can recess or contract inwards within the walls of DDCS 100 or within shell 212 in any direction in any plane. Further, DDCS apparatus 100 may also include a fastening connection ring 110 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to be fastened, secured and connected to an anvil housing and/or hammer. In addition, the tapered opening guide ring 120 will provide an opening for guiding and centralizing the conductor pipe and connector to enter the interior walled space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, DDCS 100 is shown with 36 inserts 210 disposed around the perimeter of its housing. However, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that DDCS 100 may include any number of inserts. In addition, the size and configuration of the inserts for DDCS will depend on the various tubular pipe diameter applications. For example, if a 40 inside diameter sleeve DDCS 100 is used which is to receive a 36 outside diameter pipe with a PDL lip that is 38 in outside diameter, then the applicable insert would be about 2 each in length (about 2 on one side of the wall and about 2 on an opposing side of the wall equating to about 4-in. total) in a static position to hold the 36 pipe center in place. In addition, the plunger of insert 220 may need to flex or deflect inwards into the housing or cavity of housing 212 about 1 each (about 1 on one side and about 1 on the opposing side equating to about 2 total) to allow the lip to pass through temporarily. However, if in another example, a 30 pipe with a 32 lip is to be inserted within DDCS 100, then inserts 210 may need to be replaced with larger and longer ones to accommodate for the different tubular pipe application.
(46) FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate various views for another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the DDCS apparatus of the present disclosure described herein. Here, DDCS apparatus 100 can include a tubular housing or casing having a plurality of inserts 220, which can also be referred to herein as biased ribs, gussets, tabs, leaf type springs, biasing members, or the like. Here, inserts 220 can operate as biasing members disposed within the interior wall space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Specifically, each insert 220 is comprised of a partially rounded or curved member, such as a piece of metal material, that has its ends secured to the walls DDCS 100, and which operates similar to an inverted leaf spring or a flexible tab. Specially, insert 220 can have its outer region depressed or deflected inwards in a biasing manner, such as force or pressure being applied near or at the crest region of curved insert 220. In addition, each insert 200 may have its ends slid slots disposed on the walls of DDCS 100, where each end of insert 220 is crimped, secured, affixed, or welded to the exterior walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, the ends of insert 220 may also be secured or affixed to the interior walls of DDCS 100. In addition, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that each insert 220 may have multiple layers stacked on top of each other to modify the compression ratio of insert 220.
(47) Still referring to FIGS. 3A-3B, inserts 220 can deflect or move in a linear configuration or direction thereby recessing or contracting inwards and expanding outwards relative to the walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, inserts 220 can recess or contract inwards within a cavity within the walls of DDCS 100 in any direction in any plane. Further, DDCS apparatus 100 may also include a fastening connection ring 110 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to be fastened, secured and connected to an anvil housing and/or hammer. In addition, the tapered opening guide ring 120 will provide an opening for guiding and centralizing the conductor pipe and connector to enter the interior walled space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, DDCS 100 is shown with 36 inserts 220 disposed around the perimeter of its housing. However, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that DDCS 100 may include any number of inserts. In addition, the size and configuration of the inserts for DDCS will depend on the various tubular pipe diameter applications. For example, if a 40 inside diameter sleeve DDCS 100 is used which is to receive a 36 outside diameter pipe with a PDL lip that is 38 in outside diameter, then the applicable insert would be about 2 each in length (about 2 on one side of the wall and about 2 on an opposing side of the wall equating to about 4-in. total) in a static position to hold the 36 pipe center in place. In addition, the insert 220 may need to flex or deflect inwards about 1 each (about 1 on one side and about 1 on the opposing side equating to about 2 total) to allow the lip to pass through temporarily. However, if in another example, a 30 pipe with a 32 lip is to be inserted within DDCS 100, then inserts 220 may need to be replaced with larger and longer ones to accommodate for the different tubular pipe application.
(48) FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate various views for another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the DDCS apparatus of the present disclosure described herein. Here, DDCS apparatus 100 can include a tubular housing or casing having a plurality of inserts 230, which can also be referred to herein as biased scissor member, biased retractable members, ribs, gussets, biasing members, or the like. Here, inserts 230 can operate as biasing members disposed within the interior wall space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Specifically, each insert 230 is comprised of a linked members that are biased or compress in a parallelogram configuration that is secured to the walls DDCS 100, and which operates similar biased lifting or scissor type jack member. Specially, insert 230 can have its outer region depressed or deflected inwards in a biasing manner, such as force or pressure being applied near or at the distal region insert 230. In addition, each insert 230 may have its ends slid within one or more slots or openings disposed on the walls of DDCS 100, where the end of insert 230 is crimped, secured, affixed, or welded to the exterior walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, the ends of each insert 230 may also be secured or affixed to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(49) Still referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, inserts 230 can deflect or move in a linear configuration or direction thereby recessing or contracting inwards and expanding outwards relative to the walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, inserts 230 can recess or contract inwards within a cavity within the walls of DDCS 100 in any direction in any plane. Further, DDCS apparatus 100 may also include a fastening connection ring 110 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to be fastened, secured and connected to an anvil housing and/or hammer. In addition, the tapered opening guide ring 120 will provide an opening for guiding and centralizing the conductor pipe and connector to enter the interior walled space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, DDCS 100 is shown with 36 inserts 220 disposed around the perimeter of its housing. However, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that DDCS 100 may include any number of inserts. In addition, the size and configuration of the inserts for DDCS will depend on the various tubular pipe diameter applications. For example, if a 40 inside diameter sleeve DDCS 100 is used which is to receive a 36 outside diameter pipe with a PDL lip that is 38 in outside diameter, then the applicable insert would be about 2 each in length (about 2 on one side of the wall and about 2 on an opposing side of the wall equating to about 4-in. total) in a static position to hold the 36 pipe center in place. In addition, the insert 230 may need to flex or deflect inwards about 1 each (about 1 on one side and about 1 on the opposing side equating to about 2 total) to allow the lip to pass through temporarily. However, if in another example, a 30 pipe with a 32 lip is to be inserted within DDCS 100, then inserts 230 may need to be replaced with larger and longer ones to accommodate for the different tubular pipe application.
(50) FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate various views for one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the DDCS apparatus of the present disclosure described herein. Here, DDCS apparatus 100 can include a plurality of inserts 240, which can also be referred to herein as either rigid, semi-rigid, flexible, padded, elastic, or biased ribs, or gussets, among others. Here, inserts 240 can be disposed within the interior wall space of the DDCS apparatus 100 in equal distances relative to each other. Further, inserts 240 can be secured or position vertically relative to the interior wall of DDCS 100 and horizontally project or protrude outwards. In addition, the body of the DDCS apparatus 100 can be split at region 270 vertically into two halves, with a plurality of hinges 260 on an opposing side securing both split sides together which allow it to open about an axis on one end. In addition, a plurality of securement members or latches 250 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to open and close about the hinge 160. Here, latches 250 can also be brackets or release and locking/tension members. Here, when in the open position, the conductor pipe, connector and any non-flush protrusion will be able to pass through the interior walled section of the DDCS apparatus 100 vertically without interference from the fixed inserts 240. Once the protrusion has cleared the fixed inserts 240, the plurality of latches 250 can be set to the closed position, therein closing the body of the DDCS apparatus 100. Alternatively, latches 250 can also operate as biasing members that can include piston having a compressed fluid and/or a compression spring therein which allow latches 250 to extend outwards when a force is applied to one or both ends of latches 250. Further, DDCS apparatus 100 may also include a fastening connection ring 110 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to be fastened, secured and connected to an anvil housing and/or hammer. In addition, the tapered opening guide ring 120 will provide an opening for guiding and centralizing the conductor pipe and connector to enter the interior walled space of the DDCS apparatus 100.
(51) FIGS. 6A-6C, illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of an operation for the DDCS apparatus 100 of FIGS. 1A-1B. Here, hammer 500 is shown as an assembly connected at its base to the anvil housing 400, wherein housing 300 houses anvil 410, which is then connected at its base to the DDCS apparatus 100 via the fastening connection ring 110. In addition, a conductor pipe and connector 600, with a PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 are shown in practical relative sequence of operation. Specifically, the first step shown in FIG. 6A illustrates the pipe 600 before being inserted, the second step in FIG. 6B illustrating the pipe 600 passing vertically through the DDCS apparatus 100 and engaging inserts 200 (wherein the inserts 200 further stabilize hammer 500 and center pipe 600), and the final step in FIG. 6C illustrating the engaging of the anvil 410 and secured to the entire hammer 500 assembly, with the walls of conductor pipe 600 shown at a safe offset relative to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(52) In particular, referring to FIG. 6A, inside of the DDCS apparatus 100 the plurality of inserts 200 are shown in their outward (static) position, as well as the anvil 410 is shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 due to the DDCS apparatus 100 being empty as the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 have yet to be inserted and remain outside and below the DDCS apparatus 100.
(53) Referring to FIG. 6B, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown half-way inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, a few of the total plurality of inserts 200 which are engaged by the outward protruding PDL 610 load shoulder 620 are shown in their inward (dynamic) position, flexing and being depressed to allow the PDL 610 load shoulder 620 to pass through the inside the DDCS apparatus 100. The remaining plurality of inserts 200 remain in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. The anvil 410 is still shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are not yet fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100.
(54) Referring to FIG. 6C, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. The PDL 610 integrated load shoulder 620 have traveled past the total plurality of inserts 200. Here, the inserts 200 are shown back in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. In addition, the anvil 410 is now shown in its high (engaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, the entire hammer 500 assembly is shown fully and securely engaged with the conductor pipe and connector 600 assembly and operations can commence.
(55) FIGS. 7A-7C, illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a operation for the DDCS apparatus 100 of FIGS. 2A-2B. Here, hammer 500 is shown as an assembly connected at its base to the anvil housing 400, wherein housing 300 houses anvil 410, which is then connected at its base to the DDCS apparatus 100 via the fastening connection ring 110. In addition, a conductor pipe and connector 600, with a PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 are shown in practical relative sequence of operation. Specifically, the first step shown in FIG. 6A illustrates the pipe 600 before being inserted, the second step in FIG. 6B illustrating the pipe 600 passing vertically through the DDCS apparatus 100 and engaging inserts 210 (wherein the inserts 210 further stabilize hammer 500 and center pipe 600), and the final step in FIG. 6C illustrating the engaging of the anvil 410 and secured to the entire hammer 500 assembly, with the walls of conductor pipe 600 shown at a safe offset relative to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(56) In particular, referring to FIG. 7A, inside of the DDCS apparatus 100 the plurality of inserts 210 are shown in their outward (static) position, as well as the anvil 410 is shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 due to the DDCS apparatus 100 being empty as the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 have yet to be inserted and remain outside and below the DDCS apparatus 100.
(57) Referring to FIG. 7B, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown half-way inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, a few of the total plurality of inserts 210 which are engaged by the outward protruding PDL 610 load shoulder 620 are shown in their inward (dynamic) position, flexing and being depressed to allow the PDL 610 load shoulder 620 to pass through the inside the DDCS apparatus 100. The remaining plurality of inserts 210 remain in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. The anvil 410 is still shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are not yet fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100.
(58) Referring to FIG. 7C, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. The PDL 610 integrated load shoulder 620 have traveled past the total plurality of inserts 210. Here, the inserts 210 are shown back in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. In addition, the anvil 410 is now shown in its high (engaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, the entire hammer 500 assembly is shown fully and securely engaged with the conductor pipe and connector 600 assembly and operations can commence.
(59) FIGS. 8A-8C, illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a operation for the DDCS apparatus 100 of FIGS. 3A-3B. Here, hammer 500 is shown as an assembly connected at its base to the anvil housing 400, wherein housing 300 houses anvil 410, which is then connected at its base to the DDCS apparatus 100 via the fastening connection ring 110. In addition, a conductor pipe and connector 600, with a PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 are shown in practical relative sequence of operation. Specifically, the first step shown in FIG. 6A illustrates the pipe 600 before being inserted, the second step in FIG. 6B illustrating the pipe 600 passing vertically through the DDCS apparatus 100 and engaging inserts 220 (wherein the inserts 220 further stabilize hammer 500 and center pipe 600), and the final step in FIG. 6C illustrating the engaging of the anvil 410 and secured to the entire hammer 500 assembly, with the walls of conductor pipe 600 shown at a safe offset relative to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(60) In particular, referring to FIG. 8A, inside of the DDCS apparatus 100 the plurality of inserts 220 are shown in their outward (static) position, as well as the anvil 410 is shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 due to the DDCS apparatus 100 being empty as the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 have yet to be inserted and remain outside and below the DDCS apparatus 100.
(61) Referring to FIG. 8B, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown half-way inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, a few of the total plurality of inserts 200 which are engaged by the outward protruding PDL 610 load shoulder 620 are shown in their inward (dynamic) position, flexing and being depressed to allow the PDL 610 load shoulder 620 to pass through the inside the DDCS apparatus 100. The remaining plurality of inserts 220 remain in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. The anvil 410 is still shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are not yet fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100.
(62) Referring to FIG. 8C, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. The PDL 220 integrated load shoulder 620 have traveled past the total plurality of inserts 220. Here, the inserts 220 are shown back in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. In addition, the anvil 410 is now shown in its high (engaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, the entire hammer 500 assembly is shown fully and securely engaged with the conductor pipe and connector 600 assembly and operations can commence.
(63) FIGS. 9A-9C, illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation for the DDCS apparatus 100 of FIGS. 4A-4B. Here, hammer 500 is shown as an assembly connected at its base to the anvil housing 400, wherein housing 300 houses anvil 410, which is then connected at its base to the DDCS apparatus 100 via the fastening connection ring 110. In addition, a conductor pipe and connector 600, with a PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 are shown in practical relative sequence of operation. Specifically, the first step shown in FIG. 6A illustrates the pipe 600 before being inserted, the second step in FIG. 6B illustrating the pipe 600 passing vertically through the DDCS apparatus 100 and engaging inserts 230 (wherein the inserts 230 further stabilize hammer 500 and center pipe 600), and the final step in FIG. 6C illustrating the engaging of the anvil 410 and secured to the entire hammer 500 assembly, with the walls of conductor pipe 600 shown at a safe offset relative to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(64) In particular, referring to FIG. 9A, inside of the DDCS apparatus 100 the plurality of inserts 230 are shown in their outward (static) position, as well as the anvil 410 is shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 due to the DDCS apparatus 100 being empty as the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 have yet to be inserted and remain outside and below the DDCS apparatus 100.
(65) Referring to FIG. 9B, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown half-way inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, a few of the total plurality of inserts 230 which are engaged by the outward protruding PDL 610 load shoulder 620 are shown in their inward (dynamic) position, flexing to allow the PDL 610 load shoulder 620 to pass through the inside the DDCS apparatus 100. The remaining plurality of inserts 230 remain in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. The anvil 410 is still shown in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are not yet fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100.
(66) Referring to FIG. 9C, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. The PDL 610 integrated load shoulder 620 have traveled past the total plurality of inserts 230. Here, the inserts 230 are shown back in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. In addition, the anvil 410 is now shown in its high (engaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, the entire hammer 500 assembly is shown fully and securely engaged with the conductor pipe and connector 600 assembly and operations can commence.
(67) FIGS. 10A-10C, illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a method of operation for the DDCS apparatus 100 of FIGS. 4A-4B. Here, hammer 500 is shown as an assembly connected at its base to the anvil housing 400, wherein housing 300 houses anvil 410, which is then connected at its base to the DDCS apparatus 100 via the fastening connection ring 110. In addition, a conductor pipe and connector 600, with a PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 are shown in practical relative sequence of operation. Specifically, the first step shown in FIG. 6A illustrates the pipe 600 before being inserted, the second step in FIG. 6B illustrating the pipe 600 passing vertically through the DDCS apparatus 100 and engaging inserts 240 (wherein the inserts 240 further stabilize hammer 500 and center pipe 600), and the final step in FIG. 6C illustrating the engaging of the anvil 410 and secured to the entire hammer 500 assembly, with the walls of conductor pipe 600 shown at a safe offset relative to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(68) In particular, referring to FIG. 10A, the DDCS apparatus 100 is shown with a plurality of latches 250 in the open (unset) position where the split 270 body of the DDCS apparatus 100 have pivoted about the hinges 260. The DDCS apparatus 100 being empty as the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 have yet to be inserted and remain outside and below the DDCS apparatus 100.
(69) Referring to FIG. 10B, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown half-way inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100 with a plurality of latches 250 in the open (unset) position where the split region 270 body of the DDCS apparatus 100 has pivoted open about an axis via hinges 260.
(70) Referring to FIG. 10C, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, the plurality of latches 250 are shown in the closed (set) position where the split 270 body of the DDCS apparatus 100 have pivoted about the hinges 260. The PDL 610 integrated load shoulder 620 have traveled past the total plurality of inserts 240 maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. In addition, the anvil 410 is now shown in its high (engaged) position inside the anvil housing 400 as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, the entire hammer 500 assembly is shown fully and securely engaged with the conductor pipe and connector 600 assembly and operations can commence.
(71) FIGS. 11-14D illustrate various views for another non-limiting exemplary embodiment for the integrated bow springs of the DDCS apparatus of the present disclosure described herein. Here, DDCS apparatus 100 can include a tubular housing or casing 102 having a plurality of inserts 220A, which can also be referred to herein as biased ribs, gussets, tabs, leaf type springs, biasing members, bow springs, or the like. Here, inserts 220A can operate as biasing members disposed within the interior wall space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Specifically, each insert 220A is comprised of a partially rounded or curved member, such as a piece of metal material, that has its ends secured to the walls DDCS 100, and which operates similar to an inverted leaf spring or a flexible tab. Specially, each insert 220 can have its outer region depressed or deflected inwards in a biasing manner, such as force or pressure being applied near or at the crest region of curved insert 220A. In addition, each insert 220A may have its ends disposed and secured to the outer walls of DDCS 100, where each end of insert 220A can be crimped, secured, affixed, or welded to the exterior walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, the ends of insert 220 may also be secured or affixed to the interior walls of DDCS 100. In addition, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that each insert 220 may have multiple layers stacked on top of each other to modify the compression ratio of insert 220.
(72) Still referring to FIGS. 11-14D, inserts 220A can deflect or move in a linear configuration or direction thereby recessing or contracting inwards and expanding outwards relative to the walls of DDCS 100. Alternatively, inserts 220A can recess or contract inwards within a cavity within the walls of DDCS 100 in any direction in any plane. Further, DDCS apparatus 100 may also include a fastening connection ring 110 that allow the DDCS apparatus 100 to be fastened, secured and connected to an anvil housing and/or hammer. In addition, the tapered opening guide ring 120 will provide an opening for guiding and centralizing the conductor pipe and connector to enter the interior walled space of the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, DDCS 100 is shown with about 18 inserts 220A disposed around the interior perimeter of its housing 102. However, it is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure described herein that DDCS 100 may include any number of inserts. In addition, the size and configuration of the inserts for DDCS will depend on the various tubular pipe diameter applications. For example, if a 40 inside diameter sleeve DDCS 100 is used which is to receive a 36 outside diameter pipe with a PDL lip that is 38 in outside diameter, then the applicable insert would be about 2 each in length (about 2 on one side of the wall and about 2 on an opposing side of the wall equating to about 4-in. total) in a static position to hold the 36 pipe center in place. In addition, the insert 220A may need to flex or deflect inwards about 1 each (about 1 on one side and about 1 on the opposing side equating to about 2 total) to allow the lip to pass through temporarily. However, if in another example, a 30 pipe with a 32 lip is to be inserted within DDCS 100, then inserts 220A may need to be replaced with larger and longer ones to accommodate for the different tubular pipe application.
(73) FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment for inserts 220A. In this embodiment, inserts 220A can include a bracket or mount 222A having a cut-out or opening 222C where bow or leaf spring member 226A is secured thereto. Here, spring member 226A can be any type of flexible metal material, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or the like. Specifically, one end of the spring 226A can be secured via fasteners 229A (e.g., nut/bolt) to mount 222A and another opposing end secured via fasteners 230A (e.g., nut/bolt). In this embodiment, the deflection distance, biasing, spring rate, or the height of the crest for 226A can be adjusted via the slotted opening 232A on mount 222A. For example, depending how much deflection is desired from spring 226A, the opposing end of spring 226A can be moved, via loosening a pin and threaded fasteners 230A within slotted opening 232A, and the pin and fasteners 230A further secured and tightened to mount 222A. In addition, each mount 222A can include at least for fasteners 224A (e.g., nut/bolt) that allow the mount to be secured to the interior and exterior walls of housing 102 of DDCS 100, such as shown in FIGS. 11-12B. FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate housing 102 of DDCS 100 shown without the springs 220A for illustrative purposes.
(74) FIGS. 15A-17D, illustrate one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of an operation for the DDCS apparatus 100 of FIGS. 11-14D. Here, a hammer as an assembly is connected at its base to an anvil housing is connected at its base to the DDCS apparatus 100 via the fastening connection ring 110 (not shown, see FIGS. 8A-8C for reference). In addition, a conductor pipe and connector 600, with a PDL 610 having a projecting ring or integrated shoulder 620 is shown in a practical relative sequence of operation, namely, FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate a first sequence, FIGS. 16A-16D illustrate a second sequence, and FIGS. 17A-17D illustrates a third or final sequence. Specifically, the first step shown in FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate the pipe 600 before being inserted into DDCS 100, the second step in FIGS. 16A-16D illustrating the pipe 600 passing vertically through the DDCS 100 and engaging inserts 220A (wherein the inserts 220A further stabilize the hammer and center the pipe 600), and the final step in FIGS. 17A-17D illustrating the pipe 600 within DDCS 100, to be later secured to the entire hammer 500 assembly, such as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, with the walls of conductor pipe 600 shown at a safe offset relative to the interior walls of DDCS 100.
(75) In particular, referring to FIGS. 15A-15D, inside of the DDCS apparatus 100 the plurality of inserts 220A are shown in their outward (static) position, as the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated shoulder 620 partially inserted into DDCS 100 and about to engage the first row of springs 220A. Referring to FIGS. 16A-16B, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown inserted into the DDCS 100 and engaged with spring member 226A of spring 220A. Here, a few of the total plurality of inserts 220A, and more specifically spring member 226A, which are engaged by the outward protruding PDL 610 and shoulder 620 are shown in their inward (dynamic) position, flexing and being depressed to allow the PDL 610 load shoulder 620 to pass through the inside of the DDCS apparatus 100. The remaining plurality of inserts 220A remain in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. While not shown, at this step, the anvil can be in its low (disengaged) position inside the anvil housing as the conductor pipe and connector 600 are not yet fully inserted into the DDCS 100.
(76) Referring to FIGS. 16A-16C, the conductor pipe and connector 600, with PDL 610 with integrated load shoulder 620 are shown fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. As shown in this sequence, the PDL 610 and integrated load shoulder 620 have traveled past the first row of inserts 220A. Here, the first row of inserts 220A are shown back in their outward (static) position maintaining the proper sleeve gap requirements with the flush wall of the conductor pipe and connector 600. In addition, while not shown, the anvil can then move to its high (engaged) position inside the anvil housing as the conductor pipe and connector 600 is fully inserted into the DDCS apparatus 100. Here, once pipe 600 is full inserted into DDCS 100, the entire hammer assembly can then be fully and securely engaged with the conductor pipe and connector 600 assembly and operations can commence, such as shown with respect to FIG. 8C for illustrative purposes.
(77) It is contemplated within the scope of the invention that any of the DDCS apparatus 100, with any of the inserts 200, 210, 220, 220A, 230, 240, either with or without the addition of a split region 270 of the body of DDCS 100 with hinges 260 and latches 250, can be activated, expanded, contracted, flexed, bulged, or set via various means, methods, or tools, thereby allowing any connector lip, upset, PDL load shoulder 620, or any other non-flush section or raised protrusion/bulge of the connector to pass through the inner section of the DDCS apparatuses 100 assembly and contact the anvil 410 while still maintaining or re-establishing the proper sleeve gap requirements for proper centrality and security with the pile itself below the connector against the conductor pipe 600 wall so that maximum stability, and in effect maximum energy can transfer from the impact piling hammer 500 to anvil 410 to the connector and conductor pipe or pile 600. For example, the moving parts (such as 200, 210, 220, 220A, 230, 240, 250, 260) can be activated via combination of gears or a mechanical operation with the use of the activator. Alternatively, the moving parts of the DDCS apparatuses 100 can be activated via an electric motor controlled by a sensor or operator via a controller or remotely. In addition, the parts of the DDCS apparatuses 100 can be activated via hydraulic pressure, fluid pressure, or pressurized source running through or within the DDCS apparatus 100. Further, an electro-magnet or magnetic force can also be used to activate the moving parts of the DDCS apparatus 100. In addition, the DDCS apparatuses 100 can also be connected or secured to the anvil housing 400 and/or the hammer 500 via connectors, welding, or any other fastening means.
(78) From the foregoing it will be seen that the present disclosure described herein is one well adapted to attain all ends and objectives herein-above set forth, together with the other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the invention.
(79) Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention without de-parting from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matters herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.
(80) While specific embodiments have been shown and discussed, various modifications may of course be made, and the invention is not limited to the specific forms or arrangement of parts described herein, except insofar as such limitations are included in following claims. Further, it will be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.
