End protector for a tubular element

Abstract

The present invention discloses an end protector (1) for mounting on a tubular element (9). The end protector has a side (2), a closed bottom end (3), and an open top end (4). The bottom end (3) faces the tubular element (9) during installation; the top end (4) is surrounded by a peripheral edge (5) disposed along the side (2). The side (2) includes at least one longitudinal slit (6) extending from the top end (4) to the bottom end (3) and is formed by at least one connecting element (7) extending at least partially into the side (2) and connecting the side (2) on both sides of the slit (6). The edge (5) includes at least one cut (8) and at least one ridge (11), both for preventing the edge (5) from bulging. The closed bottom end (3) is characterized by having a plurality of grooves (10) and a plurality of ridges (12). When the walls of the slit (6) move toward each other, the opposing walls (13) and (14) of the protrusion (12) on the bottom end (3) also move toward each other, thereby reducing the possibility of the bottom end (3) vibrating.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an end protector designed for mounting on a tubular element. More specifically, the end protector has a side, a closed bottom end, and an open top end. When the end protector is mounted, the bottom end faces the tubular element; the top end is surrounded by a peripheral edge provided along the side. Background Technology

[0002] It is well known that the ends of pipes or other tubular components need to be protected from weather conditions, substances, and / or many other factors. For example, end caps are commonly used to protect the threads of threaded pipe ends, such as those found in drill pipes. These end caps can be designed as outer caps for pipes with external threads, or as plugs that insert into the end of the pipe.

[0003] End protectors are manufactured in various sizes and shapes to accommodate a wide range of pipe types. During pipe manufacturing, pipes can have maximum and minimum inner diameters, and the wall thickness can also vary. This means that the measured opening in the pipe into which the end protector is inserted can also differ. Typically, end protectors are made to fit the minimum inner diameter of the pipe. The matching dimensions between the protector and the pipe ensure that the end protector can be easily inserted into the pipe.

[0004] US Patent 2709456A discloses a thread protector that can be quickly and easily applied to the ends of threaded pipes. This thread protector is designed to protect threads from impacts and foreign debris, preventing damage or blockage. The thread protector consists of an annular sleeve portion and a second sleeve or liner made of non-metallic sheet material. These components are connected together by creases or folds, forming an interlocking connection. The sleeve portion has elastic properties, allowing it to circumferentially contract upon insertion into the internal thread, ensuring a secure fit.

[0005] Japanese Patent JPH11182777A discloses a protective device for a beveled end of a pipe. The device includes a bevel guard with a vertically divided slit located at a circumferential point of an annular body. The body can be attached to the end face and inner surface of the pipe. The annular body is characterized by a wedge-shaped receiver, formed by flipping opposite ends of the annular body upwards at the slit. A wedge-shaped element with an angular cross-section is located inside the pipe and is driven along the wedge-shaped receiver. This action causes the body to expand, providing protection.

[0006] British Patent GB1079316A discloses a pipe end protection device including a ring whose peripheral wall has a uniform thickness along its entire length and tapers outward from one end to the other in the axial direction. Therefore, the diameter of the ring gradually increases from one end to the other. The device is further characterized by an outwardly extending flange at the smaller diameter end of the ring, a bevel at the larger diameter end, and a slit extending axially through both. While existing solutions exist for protecting the ends of tubular elements, further improvements are needed in this technology. Specifically, there is a need for a reliable end protector that is suitable for various diameters, easy to use, and can be manufactured at low cost.

[0007] While existing solutions exist for protecting the ends of tubular components, further improvements are still needed in this technology. Specifically, there is a need for reliable end protectors that are suitable for various diameters, easy to use, and can be manufactured at low cost. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention provides an improved end protector that is designed to overcome the shortcomings of known devices in the art.

[0009] One aspect of the invention provides an end protector for mounting on a tubular element. The end protector has a side portion, a closed bottom end, and an open top end. The bottom end faces the tubular element during installation; the top end is surrounded by a peripheral edge disposed along the side portion. The side portion includes at least one longitudinal slit extending from the top end to the bottom end and is formed by at least one connecting element that extends at least partially into the side portion and connects the side portion to both sides of the slit.

[0010] In one aspect of the invention, the edge includes one or more U-shaped or V-shaped cuts and corresponding U-shaped or V-shaped bulges. As the walls of the slit move toward each other, the sides of the cuts or bulges also move toward each other, thereby allowing the end protector to adapt to the nozzle. This design minimizes edge bulging.

[0011] In one aspect of the invention, the U-shaped or V-shaped cutouts on the edge are positioned to be substantially aligned with the slits and connecting elements.

[0012] In one aspect of the invention, a U-shaped or V-shaped cut prevents the edge from swinging when using an end protector.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, the closed bottom end is characterized by having a plurality of grooves and ridges. As the walls of the slit move toward each other, the opposing walls of the ridges on the bottom end also move toward each other, thereby reducing the likelihood of vibration at the bottom end.

[0014] One advantage of this invention is that the end protector can be easily installed in pipes with different opening sizes.

[0015] Another advantage of the invention is that the end protector fits securely into the tube or tubular element.

[0016] Another advantage of this invention is that the end protector can be manufactured at low cost.

[0017] Further details and specifications of the invention are described in the detailed description and accompanying drawings to provide a full understanding of the operation and function of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The foregoing aspects and numerous advantages of the invention will be more fully appreciated and understood by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 A perspective view of the end protector as seen from above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown;

[0020] Figure 2 Another perspective view of the end protector as seen from above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown;

[0021] Figure 3 A top view of the end protector is shown;

[0022] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the end protector is shown;

[0023] Figure 5 An end protector fastened to a tubular element is shown;

[0024] Figure 6 A perspective view of an end protector according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, embodiments are provided to make this disclosure exhaustive and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0026] As used herein, the term "end protector" broadly refers to a device designed to cover and protect the open end section of a tube or any similar tubular element. In the following text, similar terms such as "plug" or "cap" or "stopper" may be used to describe substantially the same device.

[0027] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3An end protector 1 of the present invention is shown, designed for mounting on a tube or tubular element. According to an embodiment of the invention, the end protector 1 is a short cylindrical shape having a circular side portion 2 extending around a closed bottom end 3. The bottom end 3 of the end protector 1 is made of a material that is easily folded when the side portion 2 is pressed. The end protector 1 extends longitudinally from the bottom end 3 to an open top end 4, thereby defining the height of the side portion 2. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the top end 4 has an edge 5 formed along the side portion 2 (i.e., around the periphery of the end protector 1). In the exemplary embodiment, the end protector 1 is cylindrical in shape, but it may have other shapes without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, the side portion 2 has one or more openings in the form of longitudinal slits 6, which extend from the top of the end protector 1 to the bottom end 3, that is, extend along the length of the side portion 2 in the longitudinal direction of the end protector 1. In one embodiment of the invention, as Figure 1 As shown, the end protector 1 has four longitudinal slits 6. However, the number of slits 6 can vary without limiting the scope of the invention. Typically, the end protector 1 can be implemented using one or more such slits 6.

[0029] In addition, a connecting element 7, typically U-shaped or V-shaped but also of other shapes, is disposed on the inner side of the side 2 above each slit 6 of the end protector 1, covering each slit 6. The connecting element 7 is designed to cover the slit 6 while having a shape or other design that extends at least partially into the end protector 1. This configuration facilitates air permeation into the area, helping to prevent moisture and condensation problems.

[0030] When viewed in a cross-section taken transversely to the longitudinal direction of the end protector 1, the connecting element 7 is a generally U-shaped or V-shaped component / part. The connecting element 7 forms an integral part of the side portion 2, extending along the internal length of the side portion 2 and aligning with the position of each slit 6. This means that when viewed from the inside of the end protector 1, the connecting element 7 covers the slits 6. The arrangement of one or more connecting elements 7 allows the end protector 1 to be inserted into a tube with a diameter slightly smaller than that of the end protector 1.

[0031] In addition, the inner side of edge 5 has a cut 8. The cut 8 can be V-shaped, but it can also have other forms, such as U-shaped or circular. The position of the cut 8 corresponds to the position of each slit 6. The cut 8 can be a partial or complete cut, designed to prevent swinging when using the end protector 1.

[0032] Edge 5 has one or more protrusions 11, which are typically U-shaped or V-shaped, but may also have other shapes. Edge 5 may also slightly deform when the end protector 1 is inserted into the tube. This deformation can be mitigated through various solutions. In embodiments of the invention, for example, such as... Figure 1 As shown, edge 5 includes one or more cuts 8 or bulges 11. When the walls of slit 6 come together, the sides of the cuts 8 or bulges 11 will move toward each other, thereby allowing end protector 1 to adapt to the nozzle by employing U-shaped or V-shaped cuts 8 or bulges 11, and the bulges in edge 5 are expected to be minimal.

[0033] Figure 3 The end protector 1 is also shown, and the figure is a top view of the end protector 1 without the protrusion 11. Figure 3 In the middle, the side portion 2 is formed with a plurality of slits 6, a corresponding number of connecting elements 7 located inside the side portion 2 (extending around each slit 6), and a corresponding number of cuts 8 positioned along the edge 5. Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment shows four sets of such slits 6, U / V-shaped connecting elements 7, and U / V-shaped cutouts 8 arranged at equal intervals. However, the invention can be implemented with a different number of such sets, which can be positioned at selected locations along the side 2.

[0034] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 3, the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1 has one or more weakened portions in the form of grooves 10 and ridges 12. The grooves 10 and ridges 12 located at the bottom end 3 function similarly to the slits 6 and ridges 11 on the edge 5. Figure 4 As shown, the bulge 12 at the bottom end 3 has two opposing walls 13 and 14 that move toward each other, thereby reducing the size or dimension of the bottom end 3. Preferably, the bottom end 3 has a plurality of circular grooves 10 and a plurality of circular bulges 12. However, within the scope of the invention, the bottom end 3 can be implemented using a specific number of grooves 10 and bulges 12. In one embodiment, the grooves 10 and bulges 12 are circular in shape. However, as... Figure 1 As shown, they can have other designs. For example, when the end protector 1 is square, the groove 10 and the ridge 12 can have a square design. Alternatively, the groove 10 and the ridge 12 can have various designs, all designed to reduce the size of the end protector 1.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the two opposing walls 13 and 14 of the groove 10 and the protrusion 12 on the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1 will move with the movement of the walls of the slit 6. When the walls of the slit 6 move toward each other, the two opposing walls 13 and 14 of the protrusion 12 on the bottom end 3 also move toward each other, thereby reducing the possibility of vibration at the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1. The walls of the slit 6 are outward protrusions on each side, and when the walls are pressed together, these protrusions cooperate with each other, making the seal tighter.

[0036] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the end protector 1 is shown, including a groove 10 and a ridge 12, wherein the ridge 12 located at the bottom end 3 has two opposing walls 13 and 14 that move toward each other, thereby reducing the size or dimension of the bottom end 3.

[0037] In particular, such as Figure 5 As shown, the end protector 1 is fastened to the tube 9 or tubular element. The diameter of the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1 is adapted to match the diameter of the tube 9, that is, approximately corresponding to the diameter of the tube 9 into which the end protector 1 will be inserted. The end protector 1 is configured such that its bottom end 3 is inserted into the tube 9, as indicated by arrow A.

[0038] As indicated by arrow B, the diameter of the end protector 1 is typically equal to the maximum thickness, that is, equal to the diameter of pipe 9. Since the diameter of pipe 9 matches the diameter of the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1, the end protector 1 can enter pipe 9. Figure 5 As shown, the end protector 1 is conical at its lower end 3. This means that the diameter of the end protector 1, as indicated by arrow C, is equal to the minimum size, that is, approximately corresponding to or smaller than the inner diameter of the tube 9 to be inserted. In one embodiment, the diameter of the bottom end 3 is adapted to the diameter of the tube 9, and this adaptation adjustment is achieved by the opposing wall surfaces 13, 14 of the protrusions 12 within the bottom end 3 moving towards each other. The user can then insert and push the end protector 1 into the tube 9.

[0039] In use, the end protector 1 is inserted into the end of the tube 9. The end protector 1 is pushed in until the edge 5 contacts the end of the tube 9. As the end protector 1 is pressed into the tube 9, the walls of the slit 6 move toward each other, and the walls 13 and 14 of the bulge 12 in the bottom end 3 also move toward each other.

[0040] The connecting element 7, along with the multiple circular grooves 10 and circular protrusions 12, is deformed in such a way that the end protector 1 can be inserted without breaking or being damaged. This ensures that the bottom end 3 remains stable and does not undulate.

[0041] The bottom end 3 may have an optional hole (not shown) that helps to expel air caused by temperature changes and prevents moisture and condensation. Additionally, the bottom end 3 may be designed with a section / component (not shown) that easily allows cables or smaller tubes to be passed through it.

[0042] The end protector 1 is preferably made of plastic. This allows the end protector 1 to be injection molded, making manufacturing both economical and efficient. However, the end protector 1 can also be made of other materials such as metal.

[0043] according to Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the end protector 1 includes four sets of slits 6, four sets of U / V-shaped connecting elements 7, four sets of U / V-shaped cuts 8, and four sets of ridges 11 on its side 2. Additionally, the bottom 3 of the end protector 1 has multiple circular grooves 10 and circular ridges 12, which work together to ensure the desired optimal performance. As mentioned above, the number of such sets can vary. Alternatively, the edge 5 can be completely cut below the ridges 11, so that when the walls of the slits 6 are pressed together, the ridges 11 rise higher, tighter, and more easily.

[0044] This article references Figure 6 Another embodiment is described. Figure 6 In the diagram, arrow D indicates that slit 6 moves horizontally along the side 2 of end protector 1. (As shown...) Figure 6 As shown, four slits 6 are used, positioned at equal distances around the perimeter of the end protector 1.

[0045] This article references Figure 6 Another embodiment is described. Figure 6 Arrow D indicates that the slit 6 moves vertically along the side 2 of the end protector 1. In this embodiment, four slits 6 are used, arranged at equal intervals around the perimeter of the end protector 1. Arrow E indicates that the ridge 11 moves vertically along the edge 5 of the end protector 1. In this case, four ridges 11 are used, equidistantly positioned above each slit 6 on the edge 5. The walls of the ridges 11 move together, and the slits 6 indicated by arrow D also move together.

[0046] Furthermore, arrow F indicates that the groove 10 and the ridge 12 located at the bottom end 3 have two opposing walls 13 and 14 that move toward each other, thereby reducing the size or dimension of the bottom end 3. The groove 10 is provided with a ridge, that is, a ridge 12 that protrudes from the inside of the base of the end protector 1 and is higher than the surface defined by the bottom end 3. Optionally, the groove 10 may be designed to have a ridge 12 located on the outside of the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1.

[0047] The invention operates in such a manner that when the end protector 1 is pushed into the tube 9, the walls of the slit 6 move toward each other, and the walls of the ridge 11 move toward each other (see [reference]). Figure 6 Additionally, the opposing walls 13 and 14 of the groove 10 and the ridge 12 located at the bottom end 3 move toward each other. The groove 10 and the ridge 12 are positioned such that the movement of the walls of the slit 6 also causes the walls 13 and 14 of the ridge 12 to move toward each other. This movement of the groove 10 and the ridge 12 ensures that the bottom end 3 of the end protector 1 does not bulge.

[0048] Since the slits 6 are aligned in the direction shown by arrow C, the movement of the slit 6 wall also causes the wall of the U / V shaped cut 8, along with the groove 10 and the ridge 12, to move toward each other. The movement of the wall in the U / V shaped cut 8 ensures that the wall of the ridge 11 moves together at the same time, thereby preventing the edge 5 of the end protector 1 from bulging.

[0049] Each slit 6 is sized such that once the end protector 1 is installed in the tube 9, a hole is formed at the location of the protrusion 11 and the cut 8. The user can then attach a hook to this hole and pull the end protector 1 out of the tube. The slits 6 are not completely closed, leaving small holes for air to escape due to temperature changes. This prevents the end protector 1 from being blown out and helps avoid moisture and condensation.

[0050] Therefore, since the end protector 1 is provided with one or more longitudinal slits 6 extending along its side, one or more U / V-shaped connecting elements 7 cover the slits 6 on the inside, and together with the groove 10 and the bulge 12 at the bottom end 3, ensure that the end protector 1 has reliable function when attached to the tube 9.

[0051] Figure 1 The slit 6, cutout 8, and connecting element 7 shown are triangular in shape. Additionally, the groove 10 and protrusion 12 are circular in shape. However, these shapes can vary, and the invention is not limited to these specific shapes. In fact, the slit 6 and connecting element 7 shown in the figure can have many different shapes. The invention provides a plug with a vent. A cap can be added above and / or below the slit 6 to make the invention tight; all other elements of the invention must be used for the sealing plug to function.

[0052] One advantage of this invention is that the end protector can be easily installed in pipes with different opening sizes.

[0053] Another advantage of the invention is that the end protector fits securely into the tube or tubular element.

[0054] Another advantage of this invention is that the end protector can be manufactured at low cost.

[0055] For purposes of illustration and description, the foregoing description of embodiments of the present invention has been presented. The invention is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it limited to the precise forms disclosed; modifications and variations can be made in accordance with the foregoing teachings, and can also be obtained from practice of the invention without departing from its scope. The embodiments were chosen and described to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, enabling those skilled in the art to implement the invention in various ways and make various modifications suitable for a particular intended use.

[0056] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and may be varied within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An end protector (1) for mounting on a tubular element (9), typically having a side (2), a closed bottom end (3), and an open top end (4), wherein, The bottom end (3) faces the tubular element (9) during installation; the top end (4) is surrounded by a peripheral edge (5) provided along the side (2). Its features are, The side portion (2) includes at least one longitudinal slit (6) extending from the top end (4) to the bottom end (3) and is formed by at least one connecting element (7) extending at least partially into the side portion (2) and connecting the side portion (2) on both sides of the slit (6). The edge (5) includes at least one raised portion (11); the closed bottom end (3) includes a plurality of grooves (10) and a plurality of raised portions (12).

2. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting element (7) is typically U-shaped or V-shaped and is disposed on the inside of the side (2) above the slit (6) of the end protector (1), covering the slit (6).

3. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The slit (6) extends from the top end (4) to the bottom end (3), and generally extends along the entire length of the side (2).

4. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The edge (5) includes at least one cut (8).

5. The end protector (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The cut (8) is usually U-shaped or V-shaped, but may also have other shapes.

6. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The raised portion (11) is usually U-shaped or V-shaped, but may also have other shapes.

7. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting element (7) is usually U-shaped or V-shaped, but may also have other shapes.

8. The end protector (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cut (8) and the ridge (11) are positioned to be substantially aligned with the slit (6) and the connecting element (7).

9. The end protector (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The cut (8) and / or bulge (11) prevent the edge (5) from bulging.

10. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The edge (5) has a complete cut below the ridge (11).

11. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The bottom end (3) includes at least one groove (10) and at least one ridge (12) extending along the bottom end (3).

12. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The groove (10) and the ridge (12) are circular in shape.

13. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The bulge (12) located at the bottom end (3) has two opposing walls (13 and 14) that move toward each other, thereby reducing the size or dimension of the bottom end (3).

14. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The bulge (12) located at the bottom end (3) has two opposing walls (13 and 14) that move toward each other, thereby reducing the size or dimension of the bottom end (3).

15. The end protector (1) according to claim 14, wherein, The opposing walls (13 and 14) of the protrusion (12) on the bottom end (3) will move as the walls of the slit (6) move. When the walls of the slit (6) move toward each other, the two opposing walls (13 and 14) of the protrusion (12) on the bottom end (3) will also move toward each other, thereby reducing the possibility of vibration at the bottom end (3) of the end protector (1).

16. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, One or more slits (6) are arranged symmetrically around the side (2) of the end protector (1) to allow air to pass through.

17. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The bottom end (3) may have optional holes to help exhaust air generated by temperature changes, thus preventing moisture and condensation.

18. The end protector (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The end protector (1) is made of plastic, metal or other materials.

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