Automated Cable Embedding on Pipeline Cladding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying optical fibers to pipes for land or submarine pipelines face issues with non-uniform and unstable adhesion due to environmental conditions, leading to potential damage and reduced reliability of the monitoring system.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that slides along the pipe to create a groove in the polymeric cladding layer, embeds the optical fiber cable within, and fills it with a molten polymeric material to secure it, providing a stable and long-lasting attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual or semi-manual application methods are used to attach optical fiber cables to pipes, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but productivity is low and the process is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical application methods with an automated extrusion-based system. A polymeric material is heated to melting temperature and extruded onto the pipe surface, automatically forming an adhesive layer that bonds the optical fiber cable. This substitution of manual operations with automated thermal-extrusion processes dramatically increases productivity while reducing labor costs and application time.
2Productivity
If gluing methods are used to attach cables to pipes, then productivity increases compared to manual methods, but environmental conditions such as humidity and rain damage the adhesion and reduce reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the polymeric material from solid to molten by heating it to melting temperature during extrusion. This parameter change allows the material to flow and conform to the pipe surface, creating a uniform adhesive bond. After cooling, the material solidifies into a stable, weather-resistant attachment that is not compromised by environmental conditions like humidity and rain, thus maintaining both productivity and reliability.
3Productivity
If gluing methods are used to attach cables to pipes, then productivity increases, but the gluing process alters the features of the optical fiber cable and reduces manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a polymeric material as an intermediary between the pipe surface and the optical fiber cable. This intermediary layer is extruded in molten state, allows the cable to be positioned and bonded without direct contact between the cable and potentially damaging gluing chemicals or processes. The polymeric material protects the cable features while providing stable adhesion, maintaining manufacturing precision alongside high productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method ensures a homogeneous, reliable, and stable application of optical fibers, enhancing the durability and accuracy of pipe monitoring by protecting the cables from environmental factors and preventing movement relative to the pipe.
Implementation Method 1
subjecting the thread of filling material to melting inside the extruding unit at a set melting temperature
Implementation Method 2
releasing the molten filling material within the groove by means of a respective extruding head of the extruding unit
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An apparatus (100) for applying at least one cable (70) of one or more optical fibers to a pipe (200), the apparatus (100) comprising:- a supporting module (101) configured to be operatively associated with a pipe (200), the supporting module (101) being configured to slide with respect to the pipe (200) along the longitudinal direction of the pipe (200);- a milling unit (103) being configured to make a groove, during the relative sliding between the supporting module (101) and the pipe (200);- a laying unit being configured to lay said at least one cable (70) with one or more optical fibers within the groove;- an extruding unit (105) being configured to release a filling material (80) of the groove and to embed said at least one cable (70) with one or more optical fibers within said groove.