EP2438263B1 - Device and method for handling rod-shaped elements - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for handling rod-like components, in particular for a deep drilling apparatus, which is used either in the onshore area or in the offshore area. The use of such deep drilling devices can be done for example for vertical drilling with regard to the development of deposits. The term "deposit" includes in particular the occurrence of a substance in liquid, gaseous or solid form or the presence of energetically usable conditions in geological structures, in particular with respect to crude oil, natural gas or geothermal energy. The term "rod-like component" is understood in particular, but not exclusively, to mean such components whose longitudinal extent is greater than their transverse extent. Such components are preferably designed tube-like and are used for example for introducing holes.

Vertical drilling is preferred for the exploitation of oil and gas fields and in the extraction of geothermal energy used.

The principle of the present invention is not limited to use in deep drilling, but may be used, for example, for other drilling devices, for example for horizontal drilling devices or inclined drilling devices.

State of the art

From the prior art is a vertical drilling device, for example, according to the patent EP1387924 B1 known, in which a plurality of pipes forming a pipe string in the ground, are arranged prior to introduction substantially vertically on a drilling platform. In this cited patent will be a device and a method is described by which it is ensured that when inserting or discharging pipes each one of two pipes is held securely by a fastening device. A typical method for vertically placing the tubes is in a conveyor system having a gripper that places the tubes in the desired vertical position.

An improvement in terms of in the EP1387924 B1 described method consists in the use of Bohrstangengreifsystemen, as these in the DE 102004004315 A1 are described and in, FIG. 1 are shown. A drilling mast 1 is mounted on a substructure 2 made of individual segments to the drilling mast 1, a carriage 4, on which a top drive is provided, movable in the vertical direction. In a drill rod 6 located below the top drive on the carriage 4, it can be inserted into the borehole and a corresponding drilling operation can be carried out by the top drive. Adjacent to the substructure 2 and at the level of the earth is a boring bar magazine 8 in which the boring bars to be introduced are stored and deposited on the boring bars removed from the borehole. In this application DE 102004004315 A1 In order to facilitate the provision of the boring bar, a drill bit gripper 10 is provided on a guide frame 12. This boring bar gripper grips a boring bar 6a lying on the boring bar magazine 8 perpendicular to the connecting line of the boring mast and the borehole, pivots it perpendicularly over a position of the boring bar shown at 6b, carries out a translational movement along the guide frame 12 into it FIG. 6C shown position, pivoted to a position above the wellbore and then allows the introduction of the carriage 4 located on the top drive of the drill rod into the wellbore. To remove a boring bar from the borehole, a reverse order of action is chosen.
Although omitted in such a pipe handling system, as in the closest prior art D 102004004315 A1 described is the uncertainty of being on a crane
floating loads. On the other hand, however, it requires the manual involvement of an operator to safely move the boring bars in a first step onto the boring bar magazine, a secure gripping by the boring bar gripper 10 ensure safe pivoting to the prescribed position below the top drive and secure insertion into the wellbore from the drill rod.

It should be noted that in conventional onshore drilling rigs the introduction of boring bars in the magazine 8 is often done manually or by means of forklifts, which further complicates the safe individual gripping of boring bars.

Summary of the invention

It is the object of the invention to provide an apparatus and a method for handling rod-like components, in particular for deep drilling devices, by the automated and / or secure handling of the rod-like components, in particular boring bars, until they are introduced into a borehole and removed from the borehole ensures the borehole. It is further preferred if implementation by the device and the method according to the invention for handling rod-like components is possible both in onshore drilling rigs and in offshore drilling rigs.

This object is solved by methods and devices for handling rod-like components according to the independent claims. Inventive developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

According to the invention a device for handling rod-like components is provided, which are a storage device for rod-like components, can be stored in the rod-like components, a lifting device having a lifting slide, a guide device for guiding the lifting carriage and a drive for moving the lifting carriage, and one the receiving device mounted for lifting a rod-like component of the storage device, wherein the receiving device is pivotable in relation to the lifting in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the lifting carriage in such a manner that a rod-like component can be arranged above a borehole. In this way, the transport of rod-like components of the storage device be made up above the borehole by a facility and overcome a height difference. It is preferred that the rod-like components in the storage device can be placed substantially parallel to a connecting line between the center of the drill hole and the center of the drill mast. Such an arrangement in addition to a compact design of the drilling rig with storage device also a space-economic removal from the storage device is possible. The above device for handling rod-like components is referred to below as the basic structure.

According to the invention, a device for handling rod-like components may further be provided on a drilling rig, preferably with the above basic structure, this apparatus having a transport device and a control device. The transport device is intended for transporting the rod-like components from a clipboard device to a rod-like component depositing device, wherein one or more rod-like components are detachable from the file device by a receiving device. The control device is intended for controlling the transport device and by means of this the transport device can be controlled in such a way that a release of a rod-like component can take place in the depositing device in dependence on a relative position of the transport device with respect to the depositing device. By means of the abovementioned design of the device, it is possible to prevent the drilling rig or devices located in the vicinity of it from being damaged or destroyed during transport to the depositing device and to ensure that the rod-like components are deposited with greater safety in the depositing device. As a result, an increased security can already be implemented when the rod-like components are introduced into the depositing device.

It is preferred if the above-mentioned device comprises a detection device for detecting with respect to the application to the storage device. It is preferred that the discharge is detected at the transport device. When detecting the discharge on the transport device, for example on a crane, it can be ensured that the rod-like component rests and thus an uncontrolled downward movement of the rod-like component is excluded when released by the transport device with higher security.

Alternatively or in addition to this, in the abovementioned device a detection device can be provided on the deposition device, which detects the application of one or more rod-like components to the deposition device. By such a detection can be ensured that the rod-like component is seated on the storage device and not, for example, by an uncontrolled inclination of the rod-like component on a portion in the vicinity of the storage device.

It is further preferred if, in the above-mentioned device, the control device permits the release of the rod-like component or components as a function of a predetermined relative position to the depositing device. This dependence of the release of the relative position makes it possible to define a near area above the storage device, in that only one release can take place. This can also be ensured to a greater extent that the rod-like component is in a desired position on the storage device.

The above-mentioned apparatus may be further developed in such a manner that it has detection means for the relative position of the rod-like member on the transporting means with respect to the depositing means. Furthermore, a control device may allow a movement of the rod-like component or the rod-like components on the transport device only in a certain space in dependence on an output signal of the detection device for the relative position. In this way it can be determined three-dimensionally, in which area the bar-like component can be located above the depositing device and in an adjacent area. Thus, a malfunction of the conveyor and damage to the rig can be excluded with greater certainty and the automation of the rig and the Pipehandlings be implemented to a greater extent.

It is preferred that in the abovementioned device the detection device for the relative position has one or more position sensors on the transport device. Such position sensors are, for example, encoders or length measuring systems. By such a detection of the holding element for a rod-like component to the transport device, the position of the rod-like component in space can be determined efficiently without a determination of the real position of the rod-like component, for example, by non-contact scanning is necessary. Alternatively, of course, the position of the rod-like component in space by mechanical elements, such as a transport device, or detect without contact.

The transport device is preferably a crane, whereby tight space conditions in an offshore drilling rig, but also in an onshore drilling rig can be taken into account and incorrect operation can be excluded for example in a transport of the rod-like components by means of forklifts.

According to the invention a device for handling rod-like components in a drilling rig, preferably according to the basic structure is provided which has a storage device for rod-like components, which has at least one transfer device for the individual removal of the rod-like component by a receiving device. In such a transfer device, which may be, for example, a transfer channel, a rod-like component either by a transport device for transporting the rod-like components to the storage device can be introduced or provided by a separator in the depositing device in response to a detection signal for the position of the rod-like component on the Deposit device can be introduced. Such a separating device may for example have a lifting cylinder. When introducing the rod-like component into the transfer device by the transport device, a rod-like component can already be introduced in such a way that a reliable individual removal of the rod-like component can be ensured by the receiving device. When using separating devices on the storage device can be a variety of rod-like components in the storage device provide first, and make a separation depending on the position of a single rod-like component on the storage device. As a result, the accuracy requirements in the transport of rod-like components can be reduced in the storage device and yet a single recording of the rod-like components are ensured by the receiving device.

In the case of the abovementioned device, it is preferred if the depositing device has at least one conveying device which has at least one driver arranged on a conveyor chain or a multiplicity of carriers arranged on a conveyor chain, through which a rod-like component in each case determines the position of the receiver Receiving device is transportable. This makes it possible to realize a parallel arrangement of the rod-like components on the storage device.

It is further preferred if the depositing device has at least one conveying device, by means of which at least two rod-like components can be transported to the transfer device. In this way, a rod-like component can be removed by the receiving device and either simultaneously or with a small time offset by a transport device to position a further rod-like component in the storage device.

Further, it is preferred if the storage device has a plurality of conveying devices, so that the rod-like components are movable at at least two positions by the conveyor. In this way, a tilting of the rod-like components in the storage device can be avoided.

It is particularly preferred if the storage device has three conveyors and the storage device is arranged with respect to the receiving device in such a manner that the rod-like component can be removed by the receiving device between two conveyors and the storage device. The storage of a rod-like component on three conveyors allows a secure holding of the rod-like component in the usual in deep drilling rig lengths of drill rods. The removal of the rod-like Component between two of the three conveyors allows removal outside the center of mass and thus a simplified transport of the rod-like component and a low overall height of a lifting device for the rod-like components on the receiving device.

According to the invention, a device for handling rod-like components is also provided on a drilling rig, preferably in accordance with the basic structure, with a depositing device which has a device for measuring the length of the rod-like component. The length measuring device either has at least two mechanical detection devices, by means of which the introduced rod-like component can be detected, or has a detection device for contact-free detection of the rod-like component at a predetermined position. By mechanical detection means can be determined with acceptable accuracy, the position of a rod-like component in the storage device and thus an accurate removal by the receiving device can be facilitated.

In the case of contact-free detection of rod-like components at a predetermined position, it is possible to reliably detect a rod-like component at the predetermined position, excluding mechanical errors in the case of a mechanical detection device.

The present device is preferably further developed in such a way that the mechanical detection device in each case has a biased in a Einbringvertiefung for a rod-like component lever, by the movement with attached rod-like component, a detection signal can be triggered. This simple mechanical design allows a cost-effective detection system with low failure rate implement.

It is further preferred if at least two detection devices are provided for non-contact detection, through which in the longitudinal direction of the rod-like component opposite portions of the rod-like component can be detected. In this way it can be determined with a measuring process in which Direction a rod-like component deviates from the desired position of the rod-like component on the storage device.

In the case of the abovementioned device, it is preferred if the detection device has a light barrier for non-contact detection. As a result, a non-contact detection system can be implemented inexpensively.

In the case of the device according to the invention, it is further preferred if the length measuring device has, in addition to the detection device for non-contact detection, a movement device for moving the component introduced in the depositing device in its longitudinal direction or for moving the length measuring device in the longitudinal direction of the inserted rod-like component. In this way, either the rod-like component can be moved to a desired position, which can be determined by the length measuring device, or it can determine the exact position of the rod-like component, so that a receiving device for gripping the rod-like component from the storage device this at the desired Relative position with respect to its longitudinal direction can engage.

In addition, it is preferred if the length measuring device has a control device, by means of which the movement device can be controlled, so that the rod-like component is arranged in the depositing device in order to be gripped by a receiving device at a defined location. Thus, the length measuring device, movement device and control device can cooperate to bring about a defined state for the recording by the receiving device.

The invention further provides a device for handling rod-like components on a drilling rig, preferably in accordance with the above-mentioned basic structure, which has a receiving device, by means of which the rod-like component can be received with a plurality, preferably two, gripper arm pairs. Such a receiving device may comprise a detection lever for the rod-like component in the receiving device, the fulcrum is fixed with respect to a gripper arm. In this way, can also be rod-like Components with different diameters safe detection of this can be implemented in the receiving device.

It is preferable that in the above-mentioned device, the lever is biased in the space defined between the gripper arms, thereby, by pressing the lever out of the space between the gripper arms, detecting the existing rod-like member in this space.

Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention a control device, which allows an operation of the receiving device only when detected rod-like component in the receiving device. This can reduce the frequency of errors and prevent accidents.

In addition, in the above-mentioned device, a pressure detecting means for the hydraulic control pressure or closing pressure for closing the gripper arms may be provided on the receiving device, wherein the control device allows movement of the receiving device only when detected rod-like component in the receiving device and at the predetermined detected control pressure. In this way, it can be ensured that movement of the rod-like component can take place not only when the rod-like component is detected in the receiving device but also at a desired holding pressure for the rod-like component by the receiving device, so that the error rate of the overall system can be reduced.

It is further preferred if one or more gripper arms are provided with detection lever, wherein the gripper arm or the gripper arms are preferably arranged opposite to the receiving opening for the rod-like component. In this way, it can be avoided that, in the case of only a slight gripping of the rod-like component by the front gripper arm pair, the presence of the rod-like component in the receiving device is erroneously detected and thus a secure transport of the rod-like component is not possible.

It is further preferred in the above-mentioned apparatus if the gripper arms of each gripper arm pair are mechanically connected in such a way that they are movable only by the same angle at a time. In this way, a defined holding of the rod-like component by the receiving device can implement with an intended force and thus make the transport again safer.

It is further provided according to the invention a device for handling rod-like components on a drilling rig, preferably with the basic structure, wherein this has a detection device for the rod-like component on a lifting device arranged above the borehole. In this way, the automation of the handling of the rod-like component on a drilling rig can be implemented more vigorously and the error rate, for example due to an uncontrolled downward movement of a rod-like component provided on the lifting device, can be reduced.

The above-mentioned device is preferably further developed in such a way that the detection device has a mechanical lever attached to the lifting device and pivotable in a plane perpendicular to the lifting device, which actuates a detection device for the presence of the rod-like component in the lifting device. In this way, detection can be carried out by simple mechanical means.

The above-mentioned apparatus is preferably further developed in such a manner that the detection means comprises a hydraulic pressure sensor for ensuring the closed state of the lifter. This can be made on the basis of the state of the lifting device an assessment of the introduction of the rod-like component. In particular, it is preferred if this is provided in addition to the mechanical lever, because in this way the presence of the rod-like member can be determined in the lifting device due to two detection signals.

It is further preferred that in the above-mentioned device, the detection means comprise a switch for detecting the closed holding means for the rod-like member on the lifting means. This again increases safety, since alternatively or in addition to the above-mentioned detection device for the hydraulic pressure of the closed state of the lifting device is detected.

Further, the above-mentioned apparatus may be further developed in such a way that it has a receiving device for the rod-like component, by which the rod-like component can be transferred to the lifting device and which is movable upwards by the lifting device. In this device, a control device is additionally provided, which allows a independent of the receiving device movement of the lifting device with the rod-like component only after the receiving device has been raised above the rod-like component by the lifting device. In this way, can be determined by a mechanical coupling between the lifting device on the rod-like component to the receiving device that a secure holding of the rod-like member is present through the lifting device above the borehole. As a result, it is possible to make releasing the receptacle from the rod-like member with high certainty without the danger of downward movement of the rod-like member in an uncontrolled manner.

The present invention further relates to a device for handling rod-like components on a drilling rig, preferably with the basic structure described above, wherein a recording device position detection means and a control device are provided which provide opening of the receiver with rod-like means Components only above the storage device, preferably immediately above or on this and adjacent to a lifting device above the well allowed. In this way, a release of the rod-like component on the receiving device outside the desired range can be prevented and thus increase the safety of the drilling rig.

In such a device, it is preferred if the control means preferably in a region outside the position above the depositing means, and preferably in an area adjacent to a lifting means above the well, allows a hydraulic pressure to be obtained for holding the bar-like member to the receiving means. In this way, losses can be compensated without an unwanted release of the rod-like component takes place.

According to the invention, a device for handling rod-like components on a drilling rig, preferably in accordance with the basic structure with two, preferably designed as a double cone guide elements for the rod-like component is provided through which located in a guide or centering above the borehole rod-like component in With respect to a downhole located rod-like component is centered. Such a centering can prevent an uncontrolled placement of a rod-like component on a working platform or on a rod located in the borehole. Furthermore, an automatic screwing of a plurality of rod-like components above the borehole can also be performed thereby.

In such a device is preferred when the guide elements are away synchronous to each other movable. This control allows accurate predetermination of the position for the rod-like component and requires only a small equipment expense.

The invention further provides a device for handling rod-like components on a drilling rig, preferably according to the basic structure, which has a lifting device located above the borehole and a control device, can be controlled by the lifting device, so that after an upward movement of the lifting device with rod-like located in the borehole Components wedges are removable, the removal of the wedges can be confirmed and a further lowering or lifting of the rod-like component in the borehole or can be done out of it. In this way, a controlled introduction be implemented by rod-like components in the borehole and removing the rod-like components from the well with high security.

Brief description of the drawings

• Fig. 1 shows a front view of a drilling rig according to the prior art.
• Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a drilling rig with the handling device according to the invention,
• The Fig. 3 and 4 show excerpts Fig. 2 ie the storage device with boring bar gripper or the boring bar gripper with elevator,
• Fig. 5 shows a plan view of a modification of the storage device with light barrier and movement device for the drill rod.
• Fig. 6 shows a device for mechanically detecting the drill rod in the storage device.
• Fig. 7 shows a variety of means for mechanically detecting the drill rod in the storage device.
• Fig. 8 shows a plan view of the drilling rig and the depositing device located in the gripper boring bar.
• The Figs. 9A, 9B and 9C show a gripper in the side view, a lever assembly for detecting the boring bar in the front view and in plan view.
• Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of an elevator with associated detection device.
• The Figs. 11A and 11B show a centering linkage and a detail view of this centering the boring bar above the borehole.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

The invention will be described below with reference to the appended denominations.

Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a drill bit 20, in which the device for handling rod-like components and the inventive method for handling rod-like components can be implemented. It should be noted that in the representation of the drilling rig in Fig. 2 a representation has been selected in which for the device handling of rod-like components relevant elements of the drilling rig and its environment are shown. However, a drilling rig, for example for deep drilling, still has other units, such. As a generator, electrical control units, electrical power distribution modules, pressure accumulator and the like.

In the Fig. 2 shown drilling rig 20 has a base 22 with a drill mast 24, a pipehandler 26, which is also referred to below as Bohrstangenhandhabeeinrichtung, and a Bohrstangenmagazin 28, which is also referred to as a storage device below.

The present drilling rig 20 may be either an offshore drilling rig or an onshore drilling rig. In the case of the offshore drilling rig, it is preferred that the substructure 22 is movable on rails with respect to a ground both in a longitudinal direction X and in a transverse direction Y. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the longitudinal direction X is understood to mean a direction in which a connecting line between the center of the borehole 30 adjacent to the drilling mast 24 and a center line of the drilling mast 24 extends. The transverse direction Y extends at right angles to the longitudinal direction X. The substructure 22 has in the in Fig. 2 shown embodiment three floors, which are preferably connected to each other via stairs. However, the present invention is not limited to the provision of the substructure limited to three floors, but it can be provided depending on the Bohranforderungen any floor number. The substructure is preferably modular, so that a stepwise construction of the substructure is possible.

In the substructure can be a in Fig. 2 unillustrated blowout preventer and a in Fig. 2 not shown Trip tank be provided. The substructure is located on the borehole to be inserted, which continues in the working platform 32 in the borehole 30 provided above the substructure. Furthermore, a control cabin 34 and a crane 36 for handling objects on the work platform 32 are arranged on the work platform.

In the longitudinal direction X adjacent to the above-described description of the borehole 30, the preferably modular boring mast 24 is provided which, in the illustrated embodiment, has two interconnected drilling mast segments. On the mast 24 are in its longitudinal direction Z, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y, racks 38 and rails mounted on which a feed slide 40 is movable. In this case, at least one gear on the feed carriage 40 is driven by at least one feed motor. Furthermore, holding brakes are formed on the feed carriage, via which the feed carriage 40 can be arranged in a fixed position on the drilling mast 24.

The feed carriage further comprises a top drive 42 with a receiving device for attaching a drill rod and a rod shaft 44 with attached elevator 46 for lifting in front of boring bars. The elevator is used for rapid installation and removal of the drill string with respect to the wellbore. During the drilling operation, where the torque is applied from the topdrive 42 to the downhole drill head, the elevator is swung away from a connection line between topdrive and downhole 30. In Fig. 2 not shown is a screwing, can be screwed together through the drill rods on the wellbore. During screwing, a boring bar already located in the borehole is held by wedges (not shown) on the working platform. For attaching the further boring bar, the further boring bar is moved via the pipehandler 26 or the boring bar handlift device 26 vertically above the borehole at this point arranged boring bar and screwed by means of the screwing with the borehole located in the borehole.

The attachment of the drill rods is monitored via the control cab 34. In addition to this monitoring in the control cabin so far a variety of monitoring and correcting operations were necessary from the introduction of the drill rod in the drill rod magazine 28 to screw the drill rod with another borehole 30 located in the borehole. With the present invention, a large number of measures are proposed in order to be able to minimize or completely omit these monitoring and correction processes, so that the operating personnel in the control cabin 34 are able to access the tasks associated with creating the borehole or can concentrate with the removal of drill pipe from this, without a focus of activity is on the monitoring of the Bohrstangenentransportes.

In the following description, different sections of the automation in the drill rod transport will be described. These sections can be executed in any combination.

In the following description will also refer to the Figures 3 and 4 based, wherein Fig. 3 an enlarged view Fig. 2 in which the boring bar handler 26 and the boring bar magazine 28 are shown. In Fig. 4 the drill rod handling device is shown enlarged together with the elevator 46 on the drill mast 24.

First section of the Bohrstangenentransportes

With reference to Fig. 3 Now, the introduction of the drill rods in the drill rod magazine 28 is explained in more detail. Preferably in offshore installations, a slewing crane is used to form stacks of boring bars. From this boring bar stack, the boring bars are then transported from the stack to the boring bar magazine 28 via a further rotating crane, which is an embodiment of the following designated transport device, in which the boring bars for the Recording by the boring bar handling device 26 are stored. When transporting with the other crane, different safety aspects must be taken into account. First of all, it must be ensured that a release of the boring bars from the other crane may only take place above the boring bar magazine 28 when the boring bar is laid down. It should also be noted that when transporting the boring bar with the other crane, damage to the rig or its surroundings with the boring bar in motion is avoided. These possibilities for increasing safety are inventively implemented by releasing the boring bars from the relative position of the boring bars in the space, in particular with respect to the depositing device. One possibility is that it is assumed that with a detected relief of the second crane that the drill rod is on the drill rod magazine 28. Then then the other crane can be opened so that the drill rod comes to rest on the drill rod magazine.

Another possibility is that on the drill rod magazine 28 a detection device is provided, the output signal causes a release of the drill rod on the second crane. This further detection device can be provided as an alternative or in addition to the device for detecting the discharge on the transport device. In addition to or alternatively, a release of the drill rod from the second crane above the storage device only take place when the holding device for the drill rod on the second crane in a predetermined space area above the storage device.

Alternatively or in addition, for the movement of the boring bar by the second crane, only a predetermined space area above the depositing means and towards the stack, from which the boring bars are removed by the second crane, may be provided. A movement of the drill rod out of this area is prevented by a movement blocking the corresponding translational or rotational movement of the second crane. The latter measure can increase the speed of the bar transport from the stack to the boring bar magazine and at the same time guarantee a high degree of safety.

Thus, increased safety can be achieved with the first section of the compared to the Bohrstangentransport means of forklift drill rod transport. In comparison to the drill rod transport exclusively by a manual operation of the second crane can be greatly reduced according to the present invention, the error rate.

The present invention is not limited to the fact that only one boring bar is brought to the depositing device simultaneously by the second crane, but two or more bars may be transported by the second crane as required.

Second section of the drill rod transport

With reference to Fig. 3 Now the second subsection of the drill rod transport will be described. In this second subsection, the boring bars applied to the boring bar magazine 28 are singulated in such a manner that they can be gripped individually by a gripper 48 provided by the boring bar handling device 26 and can be arranged above the borehole 30. For this purpose, it is preferred that the longitudinal extension X 'of the drill rod magazine 28 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the arrangement of the center of the hole 30 and center of the drill mast 24. In this way, the isolated drill rod from the Bohrstangenmagazin 28 by the gripper in the immediate vicinity of the base 22, to which the Bohrstangenmagazin 28 is at a small distance, grab and promote low demands on the place in the intended position.

The drill rod magazine 28 has according to the execution Fig. 3 three conveyors 50 a, 50 b and 50 c, each extending in the transverse direction Y and each having a transfer device, the in Fig. 3 is formed as a transfer channel 51a, 51b, 51c and have a respective conveyor chain 54a, 54b, 54c. The conveyors 50a, 50b, 50c are parallel to each other and their transfer fingers 51a, 51b and 51c are aligned with each other. As a result, boring bars applied to the conveyor chains 54a, 54b, 54c can be conveyed by the conveyor chains in the transverse direction Y. Upon detecting the boring bar on the conveyor chain 54a, 54b, 54c a predetermined position adjacent to the transfer 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, a separating device is triggered, which may for example be a cylinder, so that the movement of a single boring bar in the transfer channel 51 a, 51 b, 51 c is made possible. The arrangement of the gripper 48 of the boring bar handler is preferably made in such a manner that in a portion between two of the three conveyors 50a, 50b, 50c, the gripper 48 can engage and engage the boring bar. In the embodiment of Fig. 3 these are the conveyors 50a and 50b. The gripper 48 with the boring bar then rotates in such a manner that the boring bar reaches a vertical position in which the shorter end of the boring bar points downwards. In this way, it is ensured that a minimum stroke for the gripper 48 is sufficient to position the boring bar above the borehole 30 and so that no further parts of the rig are touched. On the conveyor chain are preferably arranged drivers, which can transport one or a certain number of boring bars on the conveyor chain to the transfer channel 51a, 51b, 51c.

As an alternative to using a separating device on the conveyors, it is possible that a drill rod is introduced directly through the second crane in the transfer channel or on the conveyor chain predetermined departments, for example, predetermined chambers are provided, in each of which only a boring bar can be stored , In this way, upon further transport around the dimension of a chamber, a safe introduction of the drill rod into the transfer channel 51a, 51b, 51c can be implemented.

The present invention is not limited to a transfer chute 51a, 51b, 51c, but may also be employed in the use of any transfer device. Fig. 5 discloses the top view of a conveyor 50d, which instead of the conveyor 50a in Fig. 3 can be used. The conveyors 50b and 50c are then formed in a correspondingly comparable manner. In addition to the conveyor chain 54d, the conveyor has a transfer device 51d, which is designed roller-shaped. The roller is preferably formed by a double cone whose smaller diameter sections are interconnected. Such a transfer device 51 d in roll form allows a boring bar is applied on this for receiving by the gripper 48. At the same time there is the possibility that when the roller 51 d is driven by a motor 56 provided adjacent thereto, the boring bar can be transported in the longitudinal direction X 'and thus alignment of the boring bar can be carried out, so that grasping by the gripper 48 in FIG a defined position is facilitated.

The separation of the drill rods can be triggered as an alternative, for example, to the lifting cylinder also by a corresponding forward movement of the conveyor chain. It is also preferred here that a detection of the position of the drill rod takes place beforehand.

Third section of the drill rod transport

The following is with reference to the Figures 3 . 6 and 7 with respect to a first variant of the third section and with reference to the Figures 5 and 8th described with respect to a second variant of the third subsection.

It is convenient the presence of the drill rod in the transfer channel 51a, 51b and 51c in FIG. 3 through an in FIG. 6 detect device 58 shown in perspective view. The detection device 58 has an angle lever 60, the introduction of a boring bar in a recess 62 in the holder for the angle lever 60 in FIG. 6 is pressed down. At this angle lever 60, a switching flag 66 is fixed and movable with this. When this tag 66 comes close to a sensor 68 attached to the bracket 66, this sensor 68 is triggered and outputs a signal indicative of the presence of the drill rod in the recess 62.

The angle lever 60 is biased by a spring 70 in such a manner that it projects into the recess 62. However, said detector 58 is not limited to indicating the presence of a boring bar in the transfer trough. In the top view of FIG. 7 is a variant of the embodiment of the drill rod magazine 28 of FIG. 3 in which a plurality of detectors 58a-g are disposed both between the conveyors 50a, 50b, 50c are also arranged outside of these. The distance of the detection devices 58a-g is determined by a stop 72, which in FIG. 7 is provided on the right side. The two detectors 58g and 58f, which are provided outside the area between the conveyors 50a, 50b and 50c, are provided for the case that, for example, the boring bar has too much misalignment. Depending on the length of the bored bar introduced, the corresponding detectors 58a-g will deploy depending on the length of the boring bar. Owing to the arrangement of the drill rod in the transfer channel 51a, 51b, 51c, either the drill gripper 48 can grip the drill rod in one position or the stroke of the gripper 48 can be adjusted accordingly so that a suitable transfer to the elevator on the drill mast can take place.

According to a modification, it is possible to compare the values for the length of the boring bar, determined on the basis of the signals at the detectors 58a-g, with a nominal value for the boring bar. With a predetermined deviation of the values, an error message can be generated. An error message can also be generated if signals from proximity switches or detection devices are detected, which is not possible if they are jointly triggered when a continuous boring bar is introduced.

Due to such a design, the Fehleranfäliigkeit the inventive device for handling rod-like components can be reduced.

However, the present invention is not consistent with the use of detectors 58 FIG. 6 limited. It can be used any other mechanical release devices or it can be operated without contact. Thus, instead of one or more detection means 58 z. B. photocells are used. In FIG. 5 a light barrier 74 is shown, which triggers a detection signal applied to the transfer device 51d boring bar. The use of a light barrier 74 is particularly advantageous in connection with the translatory movement of a boring bar in the transfer device. In a method of boring bar in the longitudinal direction X 'thereof by an operation of, for example, the motor 56 in FIG. 5 Can the boring bar in exactly the position can be adjusted, for example, after the detection of the boring bar by the light barrier, this is just no longer in the light barrier. In this way, a predefined position of the drill rod in the drill rod magazine 28 can be provided and thus the recording by the gripper 48 can be made possible in a defined position.

As an alternative to the stationary arrangement of one or more light barriers 74, it is also possible instead of a movement of the drill rod via, for example, a motor 56 in FIG. 5 to make a movement of the light barrier. In this way, the boring bar remains in the same relative arrangement in the boring bar magazine, but its position in the boring bar magazine 28 can be predicted with accuracy so as to allow suitable actuation of the locating device and accurate placement of the boring bar above the borehole 30.

In FIG. 8 is a plan view of a drilling rig with the drill rod magazine 28 shown in which a boring bar 76 is held by the gripper 48 in the longitudinal direction X above the drill rod magazine 28 and in which the light barrier 74 is shown. From this top view it can be seen that due to the parallel arrangement of the longitudinal direction X of the drilling rig and the longitudinal direction X 'of the drill rod magazine, a space-saving arrangement of the drill rod magazine 28 next to the substructure is possible and the gripper 48 and the drill rod 76 engage without movement in the transverse direction Y. can and can turn 30 to a small amount of space to the borehole.

Fourth section of the boring bar transport

With reference to FIG. 3 Now, the structure of the boring bar handler 26 with the gripper 48 will be described in more detail. The boring bar handling device 26, which is also referred to below as a receiving device, has a guide frame 80, a lifting carriage 82, a pivoting arm 84, a gripper rotating device 86 and the gripper 48. The guide frame 80 is mounted in a lateral recess 88 of the substructure 22 and preferably has a modular construction, so that the guide frame 80 can be composed of several parts.

In its lower portion, in which the guide frame is located in the substructure, this can be directly attached to the substructure. In the area above the working platform 32, the guide frame 80 is attached to a lattice mast 90. Along the guide frame both guide surfaces and, for example, racks are provided for moving the lifting carriage on the guide frame in the direction Z. The guide surfaces and the racks can also be arranged modular. On the lifting carriage 82, the pivot arm 84, preferably by 180 ° or smaller, pivotable. The gripper 48 is rotatable via the gripping rotary device 86. In this way can be in a pivoting of the pivot arm 84 in the in FIG. 3 shown left direction, ie the Bohrstangenmagazin 28 out in a position in which the longitudinal axis of the gripper in the direction of the longitudinal axis X 'of the drill rod magazine runs. On the other hand, movement of the pivot arm 84 away from the drill rod magazine 28 towards the drill mast 24 allows the arrangement of a drill rod gripper axially parallel to the bore 30 and in such a manner that the longitudinal axis of the gripper is aligned with the central axis of the top drive. In this way, it is possible to arrange a boring bar from the boring bar magazine 28 only by means of a pivoting movement and a rotary movement of the grabber above the borehole 30.

It is preferred that the drill rod magazine 28 be adjacent to the substructure in such a manner that a change in length of the swivel arm 84 is not necessary to carry out the described movement.

In operation of the gripper described above, the present invention increases the safety and / or the degree of automation.

For this purpose, the presence of the drill rod in the gripper before a transport movement of this is determined with greater certainty. FIG. 9a shows a side view of the drill gripper 48 according to the invention in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the gripper. FIG. 9b shows a lever mechanism for detecting the existing Boring bar in the claw in front view and FIG. 9c shows the top view of the lever assembly according to the invention for the gripper.

The gripper 48 essentially has a gripper body 100 and a plurality, in FIG. 3 four, attached to this Greifarmanordnungen 102 on. These Greifarmanordnungen 102 are accordingly Figure 9A actuated by hydraulic cylinders 102a, 104b. Each gripper arm assembly has two pairs of gripper arms which are controllably moved by the same angular amount via the hydraulic cylinders 104, 104b. In Figure 9A a gripper arm pair 106a, 106b and a gripper arm pair 108a, 108b are shown. In this in Figure 9A shown open position of the gripper 48 of the gripper arm 108a associated gripping arm 108b is not visible. Upon actuation of the gripper arm pairs 106, 106b and 108a, 108b, they move toward a boring center which is independent of the diameter of the boring bar.

In order to detect that the boring bar is located in the gripper 48, the lever arrangement 110 is provided on the gripping arm 108a, which has an element 112 which can be rigidly fastened to the gripping arm 108a and a lever 114 which is rotatably mounted on the latter. The lever 114 is biased at its fulcrum via a rubber spring member 116 to the space 118 between the gripping arms for insertion of the boring bar. Upon movement of the lever 114 relative to the member 112 against the spring biasing force of the rubber spring member 116, a signal is triggered in a sensor 120 provided on the lever 114 and member 112 which indicates the presence of the drill rod in the gripper 48. The present invention is not limited to a rubber spring member 116, but any biasing means for the lever may be provided in the space 118 between the gripper arms. The sensor 120 is preferably an inductive proximity switch.

It is preferred that the lever be provided on a gripper arm pair 108a, 108b located adjacent to the boom 100 to avoid misdetection that would occur if provided on the outer gripper arm pair 106a, 106b.

It is further preferred that the pressures in the hydraulic cylinders 104a, 104b are detected and movement of the gripper 48 with respect to the guide frame 80 takes place only when both the lever assembly 110, the presence of the drill rod in the gripper 48 and the pressure for Pressing the gripper arms is detected with a predetermined value. In this way it can be ensured that the boring bar is transported with a sufficient holding force.

Fifth section of the drill rod transport

In the fifth part of the drill rod transport the object is a safe transfer between the in FIG. 4 shown boring bar handling device 26 and the elevator 46, which represents a lifting device for boring bars above the borehole. FIG. 10 shows the elevator 46 with the drill rod 76 in more detail. The elevator 46 has two half-shells 130a, 130b, which are hydraulically closed to engage the drill rod 76. In FIG. 10 Above the half-shells 130a, 130b, a lever 132 is provided which is biased towards the boring bar 76. The bias voltage can be generated, for example, by a square, which is biased by rubber elements in one direction.

Since the boring bar 76 is pivoted in by the gripper 48 between the half-shells 130a, 130b, the lever is to be arranged in such a manner that it is pushed back in a pivoting-in operation. With closed half-shells 130a, 130b, a predetermined pressure builds up in the closing cylinders for the half-shells. This pressure may be measured and used to detect the boring bar 76 located in the elevator in addition to an actuation signal generated by the lever 132, for example via proximity sensors. In addition, it is possible to provide on the elevator 46, a closing pawl for the half shells, by the closed state also a closing signal for the elevator can be generated.

In addition or as an alternative to the above-mentioned method for detecting the boring bar in the elevator, it is possible for the lifting carriage 82 in the guide frame 80 to be provided with an in FIG. 4 upwards, that is in the Z direction of the drilling mast to provide freewheeling freewheel. With such a configuration, the drill rod gripped by the gripper 48 can also be gripped by the elevator 46, and the drill rod 76 can be raised by the elevator a predetermined distance. In the case where an upward movement of the lift carriage is detected by a movement sensor for detecting the movement of the lift carriage 82 with respect to the guide arm 80, it is assumed that the drill rod 76 is gripped by the elevator.

By the above-mentioned mechanical coupling between the elevator and gripper can be ensured with a high degree of security a firm gripping of the drill rod by the elevator. In this way, the risk of downward movement of the drill rod, which was not firmly gripped by the elevator can be prevented.

For reasons of increased safety, however, it is preferred that safety brackets 134, 136 provided on the drilling mast are also brought into the locked position when the drill rod is in the elevator, so that regardless of the type of fault, the drill rod can be prevented from falling off the drill mast.

As an alternative to the freewheel of the lifting carriage on the guide frame, it is possible to allow the upward movement of the gripper in any other way, for example by spring elasticity during movement.

To ensure accident-free operation of the drilling rig, it is further preferred that the position of the boring bar handler 26 and / or gripper 48 be detected before allowing the boring bar to be received on the boring bar magazine 26 or released on the elevator 46. This circumstance increases the security additionally. The circuit arrangement for the hydraulic supply of the boring bar handling device can be designed in such a way that in the area outside the defined spaces for the release only a desserts of pressure in the closing direction, for example, for leakage compensation, is possible, but no opening of the gripper.

Sixth section of the Bohrstangenentransportes

In this section, a centered application of the boring bar with respect to a screwing above the borehole 30. Further, a secured removal of the wedges is made possible.

For this purpose, above the borehole 30 and a screwing device, not shown, a linkage centering device, shown schematically in plan view FIG. 11 a provided, the single element in FIG. 11b is shown.

Such a linkage centering device is intended to arrange a boring bar arranged eccentrically from the borehole 30 centrally above the borehole. The linkage centering 140 has two centering elements 142a, 142b, of which the centering element 142a in the perspective view in FIG FIG. 11b is reproduced. The centering element 142a has a guide element 144a, which is rotatably mounted in a fork 146a and is preferably designed as a double cone with a groove between the small diameters of the cone. The fork 146a is actuated by a hydraulic cylinder 148a and held constant in alignment by two guide rods 150a. Two of these centering elements 142a, 142b are arranged opposite one another and are subjected to hydraulic pressure away from one another. In this way, a positive guidance of the drill rod via the borehole 30 takes place. The use of the linkage centering 140 takes place after the drill rod has been detected in the elevator 46 and before being screwed to a further drill rod located in the borehole 30.

With the embodiment of the linkage centering according to the invention, the previously customary manual centering of the boring bar above the borehole is eliminated.

After centering the boring bar over the boring bar located in the borehole 30, a safe lowering of the last introduced by the boring bar handler 26 boring bar is necessary.

Subsequently, the screwing of the introduced boring bar with the borehole 30 located in the borehole takes place. Thereafter, an upward movement of the Topdrives with the boring bar causes. Subsequently, the wedges with which the drill string located in the borehole 30 is wedged are removed and detected by a detection device that the wedges are removed. Only after this detection signal is a lowering of the last introduced by the Bohrstangenhandhabevorrichtung 26 boring bar in the borehole. In this lowering, a force detection can be made to detect wedges that are still in the borehole. In the case of detecting such an obstacle, an emergency shutdown of the top drive can be made.

The present invention with said sections is not limited to the insertion of a boring bar into a borehole, but may be carried out in the opposite direction, with the detection procedure reversing. In order to better compare the installation process and the removal process, the installation or removal process will be described below.

First, the installation will be described. After detecting the length of the boring bar in the boring bar magazine, the boring bar is received by the boring bar handling device. When the existing boring bar in the boring bar handler is detected and optionally the associated hydraulic pressure is applied, the boring bar handler moves to the waiting position. With a corresponding installation signal then pivots the boring bar handling device in the transfer position, while the top drive reaches the transfer position. The elevator is swung in and closed. The signal "elevator closed" is generated as a function of the said sensor signals and the boring bar is detected in the elevator. If the drill rod in the elevator is detected, the top drive moves upwards. In a Mitbewegung the Bohrstangenhandhabevorrichtung this is detected and there is a deceleration of the top drive, which is followed by opening the gripper of the boring bar handling device. Subsequently, the gripper of the boring bar handler pivots to the boring bar magazine for receiving a new bar.

To insert the drill rod, first pull the top drive up and open the wedges above the hole. At the opening signal for the Wedges will move the top drive down and the linkage will be suspended in the wedges again. Subsequently, an opening of the elevator and a determination of the open state of the elevator, which is followed by a pivoting of the elevator and swung-elevator a movement of the top drive in the waiting position upwards. Following the further installation of the linkage is possible.

With the drill rod in the elevator, the elevator moves up to relieve the wedges, the wedges are opened, the Topdrive moves up one rod length. The drill string is suspended in the wedges. Then the drill string is unthreaded. Then the gripper pivots.

The grippers of the boring bar handler are closed, and with the boring bar detected in the boring bar handler, the elevator is opened and swung away. When the elevator is swung out, the top drive is pulled up, the gripper is swung out and the bar is placed in the drill rod magazine. When a signal is generated that there is no drill rod in the gripper and the rod is present in the drill rod magazine, the drill rod gripper is moved to the standby position and the top drive is driven down to the receiving position to prepare for the removal of additional linkage.

According to the invention, a further device and a further method for handling rod-like components can be provided. This device and method relate to the removal of the boring bars or the provision of the boring bars with caps.

To avoid the leakage of drilling fluid from the boring bar, the boring bar handling device, for example, adjacent to the gripper with a Bohrspülungsaufnahmeeinrichtung, for example, as a trough-like design element may be provided. This trough-like element allows the removal of the boring bar the escape of pipe flushing from the boring bar and prevents contamination of the working platform 32 and surrounding area with the drilling fluid.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a device is provided on the drill rod magazine, which provides either one side or both sides of the drill rods, which were introduced into the drill rod magazine, with protective caps. In this way it is possible to avoid manual work by the operating personnel.

The present invention thus relates to an apparatus and a method for handling rod-like components on a drilling rig. By device engineering and procedural modifications, the degree of automation and safety is increased, inter alia, that the storage of rod-like components on a storage device in defined positions and under defined conditions, a separation of the rod-like components is monitored on the storage device, the secure holding a gripper is checked and the completed transfer to an elevator is confirmed.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

drilling mast

2

substructure

4

carriage

6, 6a, 6b

drill rod

8th

drill rod

10

Bohrstangengreifer

12

guide frame

20

drilling rig

22

substructure

24

drilling mast

26

Drill rod handler

28

drill rod

30

well

32

platform

34

control cabin

36

crane

38

rack

40

feed slide

42

Top Drive

44

rod shaft

46

Elevator

48

grab

50a, b, c, d

Conveyor

51a, b, c, d

Transfer trough

54a, b, c, d

conveyor chain

56

engine

58

proximity switch

60

bell crank

62

deepening

64

bracket

66

Schaltfahne

68

sensor

70

feather

72

attack

74

photocell

76

drill rod

80

guide frame

82

lifting

84

swivel arm

86

Gripper rotary device

88

lateral recess

90

lattice boom

100

gripper body

102

gripper arm assembly

104a, b

hydraulic cylinders

106a, b

claw arm

108a, b

claw arm

110

lever assembly

112

element

114

lever

116

Rubber spring element

118

room

120

sensor

130a, b

half shell

132

lever

134

Folding support or safety bar

136

Folding support or safety bar

140

Gestängezentrierung

142a, b

centering

144a

role

146a

fork

148a

hydraulic cylinders

150a

guide rod

X

Longitudinal drilling rig

Y

Transverse direction drilling rig

Z

Longitudinal drilling mast

X '

Longitudinal boring bar magazine

Claims (15)

1. An apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig (20), comprising:

   a depositing means (28) for rod-shaped components in which rod-shaped components (76) can be deposited,

   a lifting means including a lift carriage (82), a guide means (80) for guiding the lift carriage (82) and a drive for displacing the lift carriage (82),

   a pick-up means (48) attached to the lift carriage (82) for picking up a rod-shaped component (76) from the depositing means (28), characterized in that the pick-up means (48) is pivoting with respect to the lift carriage (82) at a plane perpendicular to the displacing direction (Z) of the lift carriage (82) such that a rod-shaped component (76) can be arranged above a drill hole (30).
2. The apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig (20) according to claim 1, comprising a depositing means (28) for rod-shaped components including at least a transfer means (51 a, 51 b, 51 c; 51 d) for a separate removal of the rod-shaped component (76) by a pick-up means (48) into which a rod-shaped component

   a) either can be introduced by a transport means for the transport of the rod-shaped components (76) to the depositing means (28),

   b) or can be introduced by a separating means provided at the depositing means (28) in response to a detecting signal for the position of the rod-shaped component (76) at the depositing means (28).
3. The apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to claim 1 and/or 2, comprising a depositing means (28) having a means (58) for measuring the length of the rod-shaped component (76), wherein the length measuring means (58)

   a) either includes at least two mechanical detecting means (58a, 58b) by which the respectively introduced rod-shaped component (76) and the position thereof relative to the depositing means (28) are detectable,

   b) or includes a detecting means (74) for contact-free detection of the rod-shaped component (76) at a predetermined position.
4. The apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 1, 2, and 3, comprising a pick-up means (48) by which the rod-shaped component can be picked up by plural pairs of gripper arms (106a, 106b; 108a) and which includes a detecting lever (114) for the rod-shaped component in the pick-up means whose pivot is stationary with respect to a gripper arm (108a).
5. The apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig (20) according to one or more of the claims 1 to 4, comprising a detecting means (132) for the rod-shaped component at a lifting means (46) arranged above the drill hole (30).
6. The apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 1 to 5, comprising
   a detecting means for the position of the pick-up means (48) and
   a control means that permits opening of the pick-up means (48) when a rod-shaped component (76) is introduced only above the depositing means (28) and adjacent to a lifting means (46) above the drill hole.
7. The apparatus for handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 1 to 6 comprising
   a lifting means provided above the drill hole, and
   a control means by which the lifting means is controllable so that after an upward movement of the lifting means with rod-shaped components provided in the drill hole securing wedges are removable, the removal of the wedges is confirmed and the rod-shaped components are further lowered into the drill hole or the rod-shaped components are further lifted out of the drill hole.
8. A method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig, comprising the steps of
   depositing at least one rod-shaped component in a depositing means, and
   picking up a rod-shaped component from the depositing means by a pick-up means mounted at a lift carriage, wherein the lift carriage forms a lifting means with a guide means for guiding the lift carriage and a drive for displacing the lift carriage,
   characterized by the step of pivoting the pick-up means with respect to the lift carriage in a plane perpendicular to the displacing direction of the lift carriage such that a rod-shaped component can be arranged above a drill hole.
9. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to claim 8, comprising the step of

   a) introducing a rod-shaped component into a transfer means for the individual removal of the rod-shaped component by a pick-up means by a transport means for the transport of the rod-shaped components to a depositing means for rod-shaped components, or

   b) introducing a rod-shaped component into a transfer means for the individual removal of the rod-shaped component by a pick-up means by a separating means provided at the depositing means in response to a detecting signal for the position of the rod-shaped component at the depositing means.
10. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 8 and 9, comprising the step of length measurement at the rod-shaped component in a depositing means in which

    a) either the respectively introduced rod-shaped component is detected by at least two mechanical detecting means,

    b) or the rod-shaped component is detected contact-free at a predetermined position by a detecting means.
11. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 8 to 10, comprising the step of
    picking up the rod-shaped component by plural pairs of gripper arms of a pick-up means,
    and detecting the rod-shaped component in the pick-up means via a detecting lever the pivot of which is stationary with respect to a gripper arm.
12. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 8 to 11, comprising the step of detecting the rod-shaped component by a detecting means at a lifting means arranged above the drill hole.
13. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 8 to 12 comprising the steps of
    detecting the position of the pick-up means by a detecting means and
    allowing to open the pick-up means with an introduced rod-shaped component only above the depositing means and adjacent to a lifting means above the drill hole by a control means.
14. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 8 to 13, comprising the step of centering the rod-shaped component provided at a lifting means above the drill hole with respect to a rod-shaped component provided in the drill hole via two guide rollers for the rod-shaped component.
15. The method of handling rod-shaped components at a rig according to one or more of the claims 8 to 14, comprising the step of controlling a lifting means provided above the drill hole via a control means so that after an upward movement of the lifting means with rod-shaped components provided in the drill hole securing wedges can be removed, the removal of the wedges is confirmed and the rod-shaped components are further lowered into the drill hole.

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