Cured-in-Place Pipe Sensor Monitoring for Uniform Curing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CIPP liner curing processes face challenges in ensuring uniform curing across long pipe lengths due to temperature variations, and current monitoring systems are expensive, prone to failure, and unsuitable for small diameter pipes.
Innovation Solution
A system with sensors affixed to the liner, capable of measuring temperature and pressure, communicates with a controller to determine a curing profile and alert when threshold values are met, ensuring complete curing without the need for expensive fiber optic or metallic cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fiber optic or metallic cables are used for monitoring curing parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/electrical monitoring systems (fiber optic cables, metallic cables) with simple electronic sensors that directly measure temperature and pressure. The sensors transmit data wirelessly or through simple conductors to a controller, eliminating the need for complex fiber optic infrastructure while maintaining adequate measurement precision for curing parameter monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, simple sensors that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than investing in expensive, complex fiber optic or metallic cable systems. The low cost of these sensors allows for multiple sensors to be distributed along the liner without significantly increasing system cost or complexity.
2Measurement precision
If fiber optic or metallic cables are used for monitoring, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability decreases due to proneness to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fragile mechanical cable systems (fiber optic, metallic) with robust electronic sensors that have no moving parts and are resistant to failure. The simplified electrical connections and wireless communication options eliminate the structural vulnerabilities of cable-based systems, particularly in small diameter pipes where cable installation and maintenance are problematic.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensors are designed to operate autonomously within the curing environment, requiring minimal external support or maintenance. They self-regulate and continue functioning throughout the curing process without the vulnerability points inherent in cable-based systems.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If traditional monitoring systems are used, then curing parameter detection is possible, but ease of operation deteriorates due to unsuitability for small diameter pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin-film or flexible sensor elements that can be easily attached to the inner surface of the liner or embedded within it. These flexible sensors conform to the curved surface of small diameter pipes without requiring complex routing or installation procedures, making them suitable for confined spaces where traditional cable systems would be impractical.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring function is divided into multiple discrete sensor points distributed along the liner length. Each sensor is a simple, independent unit that can be individually installed or replaced, simplifying the overall installation process in small diameter pipes compared to installing continuous cable systems.
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 system ensures thorough curing of the liner across its entire length, reducing the risk of compromised installations and overcoming the limitations of existing monitoring technologies by providing real-time feedback and control.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of sensors affixed to the liner at an interface between the resin layer and the existing pipe, the plurality of sensors configured to sense at least one curing parameter
Implementation Method 2
The controller is configured to receive real-time data from each sensor, compare the real-time data from each sensor to the threshold curing value, and output an alert upon the real-time data meeting or exceeding the threshold curing value
Data Source
AI summary
A method for monitoring a curing process of a cured-in-place pipe is disclosed. The method includes affixing a plurality of sensors to a resin layer of a liner, and determining a curing profile corresponding to at least the resin layer, the curing profile including a threshold curing value. The method further includes sensing, using the plurality of sensors, real-time data indicative of at least one curing parameter. Additionally, the method includes comparing the real-time data from each sensor to the threshold curing value, and outputting an alert upon the real-time data meeting or exceeding the threshold curing value.