Patent ID: 7717014
Filing Date: 2010-05-18
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A system for rotating an elongated element with an end threaded portion into a receiving coupler sleeve with close maintenance of torque applied thereto, comprising: a drive ring having an open interior about a central axis and peripheral teeth in a plane normal to the axis, an outer bearing surface adjacent the peripheral teeth, and a radial passageway through the ring into the central axis; a set of support rollers disposed about the periphery of the drive ring and in contrast with the outer bearing surface to maintain the drive ring rotatably concentric with the central axis; a mechanism disposed in the open interior of the drive ring for gripping an elongated element disposed along the central axis; an idler gear combination engaging the peripheral teeth on the drive ring; a rotatable power drive coupled to the idler gear combination for spinning the drive ring, and a linearly movable power drive having a gear rack movable in orthogonal directions to (1) engage the idler gear combination and (2) apply a predetermined force limit to the idler gear combination.