Hinge-Coupled Rod Assembly for Underground Boring Force Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for operating pipeline tools, such as expansion and pull heads, require cumbersome and unsafe manual connection of rod assembly sections within narrow inspection chambers during pipeline rehabilitation, especially for long bore lengths, and existing solutions are either expensive or fragile.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a rod assembly with hinge-coupled sections and a guide, such as a roller track, to redirect push and pull forces from the earth's surface into the pipeline axis, allowing for above-ground operation and eliminating the need for manual connection within the inspection chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If rod assembly sections are connected manually within inspection chambers, then the rod assembly can be assembled for long bore lengths, but the operation becomes cumbersome and unsafe due to narrow confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The rod assembly is divided into multiple rod assembly sections that can be connected together. Each section has a limited length suitable for manual handling, but multiple sections can be coupled to achieve the required total length for long bore operations through the coupling mechanism described in the patent
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary device that enables connection between rod assembly sections. The coupling includes a receiving opening and connection elements that facilitate automated or remote coupling operations, eliminating the need for manual connection work within confined inspection chambers
2Ease of manufacture
If rod assembly sections are connected manually in inspection chambers, then assembly can be completed, but safety deteriorates due to exposure to foul-smelling and narrow confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
Rod assembly sections can be pre-assembled and coupled on the earth's surface before being lowered into the inspection chamber. The coupling mechanism is designed to allow connection operations to be performed outside the confined space, and only the completed or partially completed assembly needs to be inserted into the chamber
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary that enables connection operations to be performed remotely or automatically, reducing the need for human operators to physically enter or work within the foul-smelling confined inspection chamber environment
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional coupling mechanisms are used, then rod assembly sections can be connected, but the device complexity increases due to additional connection components
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates a receiving opening that can assume different orientations and positions relative to the rod assembly section axes. This flexible geometric design allows the coupling to accommodate various connection configurations without requiring complex mechanical components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of assembly
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system for the overground operation of underground sewer tools, especially of expander and pulling heads comprising a rod assembly that is rigid when pushed and a supporting device absorbing shear or tractive forces.