SECTIONAL DRIVE SYSTEM

摘要

A sectional drive system for transmitting power linearly or in a curved path to an output, which system includes multiple tapered and splined, interlocking driving segments (17) which are nested and stacked as a segment string (10) that is rotatable in a guide path. The top one of the segments cooperates with a drive mechanism (12) to effect rotation of the nested segments in concert and the bottom one of the segments connects to a suitable output such as drill bit (42). Articulation of the segments with respect to each other due to matching asymmetrical splines (19) and companion spline slots (24) facilitates dampening of drive vibration and bending of the segment string in the guide path in any desired direction to facilitate transmitting power in a curved path of desired magnitude from the drive mechanism to the output. In a typical application the interlocking driving segments are incorporated in a downhole drilling apparatus designed for insertion in a well bore to facilitate drilling holes at selected angles in an uncased hole or through the well casing (7), cement sheath and producing interval to enhance well production. The driving segments and bit will continue travelling in a straight line and continue on the same path presented when existing the guide path from the downhole drilling apparatus.