Inversion Drum Latch Assembly for Fast High-Pressure Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inversion drums used in CIPP operations require time-consuming engagement and release of multiple threaded fasteners for accessing and sealing the drum, which delays the installation of tubular liners and pressurization.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with interlaced knuckles and a rotatable latch pin allows for rapid access and sealing of the drum, using a hinged joint that can be quickly locked and unlocked with minimal effort, even under high pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple threaded fasteners are used to secure the cover, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the time required for engagement and release increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is divided into multiple independent knuckles (first knuckles on the cover, second knuckles on the body) that can engage simultaneously with a single latch pin. This segmentation allows the sealing function to be distributed across multiple points while maintaining rapid engagement through a unified locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into a single latch pin operation. The latch pin simultaneously engages with all knuckles, combining what would traditionally require multiple separate fastener operations into one unified action, thereby reducing engagement and release time while maintaining sealing reliability.
2Strength
If a secure latch mechanism is used to resist high pressure, then the pressure resistance is improved, but the complexity of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The knuckles are designed with specific local geometries (concave surfaces, engagement surfaces) that are optimized for their specific function of interfacing with the latch pin. Each knuckle has the precise local quality needed to engage securely, distributing the pressure resistance function across multiple simplified local features rather than requiring a complex overall mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex mechanism to achieve simplicity, the invention uses simple geometric features (knuckles and grooves) that derive their strength from their configuration. The latch pin rotates to engage or disengage, inverting the traditional approach where complex mechanisms are used to control simple fastening actions.
3Ease of operation
If a rotatable latch pin is used for rapid access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch pin is designed to rotate dynamically between locked and unlocked positions, providing rapid access through a simple rotational motion. This dynamic element replaces what would otherwise require multiple static fasteners to be manually operated, improving ease of operation while keeping the overall mechanism relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A hinged cover overlays an opening that provides access to a pressurized inversion drum. A releasable latch assembly holds the cover in a closed and locked position. The latch assembly comprises a plurality of first knuckles formed in the cover that are interlaceable with a plurality of second knuckles formed in the body adjacent the opening. The latch assembly further comprises a rotatable latch pin that may be installed within the first and second knuckles. The latch assembly is moved from an unlocked to a locked position by rotation of the latch pin within the knuckles.