Hydraulic Pipe Coupling Jig for Re-Rounding Underground Repairs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jig assemblies for thermal plastic piping are cumbersome and cannot fit within holes for underground repairs, and large diameter pipes tend to sag and change shape due to material weight and soil loads, making welding difficult due to oblong shapes.
Innovation Solution
A jig assembly with hydraulically openable and closable jaw assemblies connected by linear actuators to grasp, re-round, and position pipes for precise alignment and welding, allowing for the use of fusion welding techniques within confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional jig assemblies are used for pipe coupling, then welding can be performed, but the equipment size is enormous and cannot fit into holes for underground repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The jig assembly is divided into multiple separate components including first and second jaw assemblies that can be independently positioned and operated. This segmentation allows the equipment to be assembled within the confined space of an excavation hole rather than requiring the entire assembly to be transported as a single large unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional frame-mounted jigs that operate in two dimensions to a pipe-supported system that utilizes the third dimension by wrapping jaw assemblies around the pipe circumference. This dimensional change enables compact positioning within vertical excavation holes.
2Quantity of substance
If large diameter pipes are used, then capacity is increased, but the pipes sag and change shape from round to oblong due to material weight and soil loads
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw assemblies are designed to re-round the pipe cross-section before the welding operation begins. This preliminary action corrects the oblong shape caused by sagging, ensuring the pipe is properly rounded and positioned for accurate alignment and welding without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw assemblies automatically conform to and re-round the pipe cross-section through hydraulic actuation. The system self-adjusts to the pipe's actual shape and forces it into the correct rounded form, eliminating the need for external tools or manual reshaping operations.
3Manufacturing precision
If pipes are re-rounded to correct oblong shape, then welding alignment is improved, but additional equipment and time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw assemblies serve multiple functions: they grasp the pipe for positioning, re-round the oblong cross-section, and maintain alignment during welding. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate equipment into a single integrated system, reducing overall complexity despite the added re-rounding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the pipe holding function and the re-rounding function into the same jaw assembly structure. By merging these functions, the system eliminates the need for separate re-rounding equipment and reduces the number of operational steps required.
4Ease of manufacture
If coupling is forced onto pipe using hammer and wood, then assembly is achieved, but injury risk and coupling damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual hammer-and-wood mechanical system with a hydraulic actuation system. The jaw assemblies use controlled hydraulic force to push the coupling onto the pipe, eliminating the need for impact tools and manual labor that pose injury risks and potential for damage.
Solution Approach 2:
Hydraulic actuators are used to apply controlled force for pushing the coupling onto the pipe and for moving pipe sections into alignment. This hydraulic system provides precise, controlled force application that is safer and more reliable than manual hammering methods.
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
Enables efficient and safe positioning and welding of pipes within holes for underground repairs by re-shaping pipes to a round form, facilitating easier alignment and reducing the risk of injury or damage during the welding process.
Implementation Method 1
The jaw assemblies are both hydraulically openable and closable to grasp, release and re-round the piping
Implementation Method 2
the jaw assemblies are joined by actuators to move the jaw assemblies closer or farther from one another allowing movement of the pipes, coupling or both
Data Source
AI summary
A jig assembly and method of use are provided for positioning and re-rounding pipes for welding. The jig assembly comprises a first jaw assembly and a second jaw assembly which position and move a coupling onto one pipe then the second pipe for subsequent welding.