Inflatable Pipe Connector Sleeve for Removable Insulated Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connectors remain in the pipeline after connection, limiting their applicability to machining and further processing, and there is a need for a connector that facilitates the separation of pre-insulated pipes into manageable sections without residual components.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connecting element with an inflatable bladder, clamping segments on the outer circumference forming a variable sleeve, and a metallic ring for detection, allowing connection and separation of pipes while enabling removable insulation application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pipe connector remains in the pipeline after connection, then the connection is stable and protected, but the pipeline cannot be easily separated into individual sections for machining and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe connector is divided into two functional parts: a permanent connection core that remains in the pipeline to ensure stability, and a removable connector housing that can be taken out after insulation is applied. This segmentation allows the system to provide both stable connection during operation and separability for machining when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static permanent fixture to a dynamic system where the outer housing can be removed after serving its purpose during installation and insulation application. The connector's state changes from fully assembled (for connection stability) to partially disassembled (for separability).
2Ease of manufacture
If insulation layers are applied over the connector, then the pipeline is protected and insulated, but the connector becomes permanently embedded and cannot be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The connector housing is segmented into a permanent inner connection component and a removable outer housing. The insulation is applied over the entire assembly, but the outer housing can still be removed after insulation curing, allowing the inner connection to remain protected while enabling future access if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed in advance with the capability to be removed after insulation application. The removable housing is configured to be installed before insulation, allow insulation application, and then be removed after the insulation sets, providing planned accessibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If the connector forms a closed cylinder to close the pipe cross-section, then the insulation application is facilitated, but the connector cannot be separated into individual pipe rods after insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The closed cylindrical connector is segmented into a permanent core that maintains the pipe connection and a removable outer housing that facilitates insulation application. After insulation is applied and cured, the outer housing can be removed, allowing the insulated pipes to be separated into individual manageable rod sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static closed cylinder that provides insulation access to a dynamic system where the outer housing is removed after insulation application, enabling the pipeline to be divided into separate insulated sections for further processing and installation.
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 the connection of pipes for machining and insulation, with the ability to separate into individual pre-insulated rods post-insulation, ensuring the connector is removable and facilitating efficient production of pre-insulated pipes.
Implementation Method 1
By applying compressed air or another gas, the bladder expands and increases its circumference or diameter
Implementation Method 2
The clamping segments arranged on the outer circumference of the bladder also shift radially outward, thereby also increasing the outer diameter or circumference of the sleeve formed by the clamping segments
Implementation Method 3
the pipe connecting element has a metallic ring that detects and thus recognizes the separation point
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
Pipe connection element (1) for connecting two pipe ends via their inner circumference, preferably for connecting medium pipes in pre-insulated pipelines, comprising at least one inflatable bladder (3), a longitudinal axis (4), clamping segments (5) and a metallic ring (6), wherein the clamping segments are arranged on the outer circumference of the bladder and form a sleeve (7) whose outer diameter can be changed.