Patent ID: 6527493
Filing Date: 2003-03-04
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A drive unit for a subsoil drilling rig comprising:a connecting structure for connection to a lifting means for lifting the drive unit; a motor unit for driving rotation of a connected tube section extending along a tube string axis; an engagement unit for releasably engaging a tube section extending along said tube string axis; and guide runner means for guiding the drive unit along a guide; the drive unit being adapted for engaging a tube section radially directed towards said tube string axis and lifting said tube section into position extending along said tube string axis; characterized by: a gripper, guide means for guiding movements of said gripper relative to said engagement unit and drive means for driving movements of said gripper relative to said engagement unit, said guide means and said drive means being adapted for moving said gripper between a first position for gripping a tube section extending along said tube string axis and engaged by said engagement unit and a second position for gripping a tube section radially directed towards said tube string axis.