Patent ID: 9144894
Filing Date: 2015-09-29
Classification: B25B,E21B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for connecting and disconnecting well drilling components, the apparatus comprising: a first clamping mechanism comprising a first hollow portion having a first gripping die portion disposed therein and a second hollow portion having a second gripping die portion disposed therein such that a first well drilling component is positioned between the first gripping die portion and the second gripping die portion; a wedge-shaped plate positioned above the first clamping mechanism and comprising a first end having a notch formed therein and a second arcuate end having gear teeth formed therein; a second clamping mechanism supported by the wedge-shaped plate and comprising a first hollow portion having a first gripping die portion disposed therein and a second hollow portion having a second gripping die portion disposed therein such that a second well drilling component is positioned between the first gripping die portion and the second gripping die portion; and a drive mechanism operably coupled to the gear teeth of the wedge-shaped plate, wherein operation of the drive mechanism rotates the wedge-shaped plate and the second clamping mechanism through about a 90° range of motion in one direction around an axis of the first and second well drilling components, wherein the first gripping die portion and the second gripping die portion of the first clamping mechanism each comprise a support section having a front face with a slot formed therein and a die portion provided in the slot, wherein the support section is removably disposed within one of the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion of the first clamping mechanism, wherein the support section is coupled to one of the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion by a removable pin, and wherein the slot has a dovetail cross-sectional shape.