Internal Mandrel Pipe Edge Tool for Uniform Cutting and Beveling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe edge preparation tools lack versatility, ease of use, and flexibility, particularly in challenging environments like shipyards, due to their complex design and limited ability to accommodate varying pipe sizes and weights.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a mandrel assembly that securely attaches to the interior of a pipe, featuring adjustable jaws and a pivoting arm assembly, allowing for uniform cutting and beveling around the pipe's circumference without the need for extensive setup or mechanical assistance, and enabling easy switching between cutting and beveling tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If known pipe preparation tools are used, then cutting work can be performed on pipe exterior, but the tools are complex and hard to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by placing the mandrel assembly inside the pipe rather than outside. The mandrel assembly with expanding jaws secures to the interior surface, while the arm assembly with cutting apparatus operates from the interior to perform work on the exterior. This inversion simplifies the tool design and improves maneuverability in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool employs a nested structure where the mandrel assembly is inserted into the pipe interior, the arm assembly is contained within or attached to the mandrel assembly, and the cutting apparatus is housed within the arm assembly. This nested configuration reduces overall tool complexity and enables operation in tight spaces.
2Ease of operation
If known pipe preparation tools are used, then cutting work can be performed, but they require a large area of operation to use properly
Solution Approach 1:
The nested configuration allows the entire tool system to be contained within the pipe interior, requiring minimal external space. The mandrel assembly fits inside the pipe, the arm assembly folds or retracts within the mandrel assembly, and the cutting apparatus is compactly housed, enabling operation in confined shipyard environments.
Solution Approach 2:
By inverting the tool configuration to operate from the interior rather than exterior, the tool eliminates the need for large external setup areas. The mandrel assembly is inserted through the pipe end, and all operational components are positioned inside or attached to the interior-mounted mandrel, requiring only minimal access at the pipe end.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pipe edge preparation is required, then uniform cuts can be achieved, but existing tools lack versatility for varying pipe sizes and weights
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel assembly features dynamically adjustable expanding jaws that can adapt to different pipe interior diameters. The jaws expand or contract radially to secure to the interior surface of pipes ranging from small to large diameters, providing versatility across varying pipe sizes while maintaining secure attachment for precise cutting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed as a universal system that can accommodate multiple pipe sizes and perform various cutting operations. The interchangeable cutting apparatus and adjustable mandrel assembly enable the same tool to work on different pipe diameters and perform different types of cuts, enhancing versatility without sacrificing cut quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for performing work on a workpiece, such as a pipe, includes a mandrel assembly configured to secure to an interior portion of the pipe. The mandrel assembly includes an arm assembly configured to retain a cutting apparatus so as to be positioned at an outside portion of the pipe and to allow the cutting apparatus to revolve around the circumference of the pipe to perform work on the pipe. The mandrel assembly includes a hub and a plurality of jaws that allow it to secure to the interior of the pipe while the arm assembly props the cutting apparatus in a position to facilitate performing work on the pipe around the entire circumference of a section of the pipe. The engagement between the mandrel assembly and the pipe supports the weight of the tool, providing ease of use and improved control for pipe cutting operations.