Mock Pipe Run Kit for Precise Weldment Layout
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Pipe fitters face challenges in constructing precise pipe connections, especially with large diameter pipes and convoluted configurations, due to difficulties in measuring and fitting components accurately without elastic deformation, requiring a method to lay out and construct pipe runs efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A mock pipe run kit with adjustable and interlocking components, including straight and angle pieces, allows for the creation of a mock pipe run that can be measured and replicated exactly, using plugs and threaded fasteners for secure connections, enabling precise pipe assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a floppy tape measure is used to measure pipe runs, then the measurement process is simple and quick, but the measurement precision and fabrication accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by constructing a mock pipe run assembly that physically represents the final pipe configuration before actual fabrication. This mock assembly is built using adjustable components that can be positioned to match the desired pipe run geometry, allowing measurements to be taken directly from the assembled model rather than using flexible tape measures. The mock assembly serves as a preliminary physical model that captures the precise spatial relationships and dimensions needed for accurate fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a mock pipe run assembly as a mediator between the design specifications and the actual pipe fabrication. This intermediate physical model translates abstract measurement requirements into tangible, measurable dimensions. The mock assembly acts as a bridge that allows workers to visualize and measure the final configuration directly, eliminating the need for complex tape measure calculations and improving dimensional accuracy.
2Strength
If large diameter pipes are used in welded connections, then the pipe strength and structural integrity are improved, but the ease of elastic deformation and positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by constructing a mock pipe run assembly that physically represents the final pipe configuration before actual fabrication. This mock assembly is built using adjustable components that can be positioned to match the desired pipe run geometry, allowing measurements to be taken directly from the assembled model rather than using flexible tape measures. The mock assembly serves as a preliminary physical model that captures the precise spatial relationships and dimensions needed for accurate fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by using adjustable components in the mock pipe run assembly, including telescoping sections and rotating joints, that allow the mock assembly to be dynamically configured to match various pipe run geometries. These dynamic elements enable the mock assembly to adapt to different positioning requirements while maintaining structural integrity, and allow workers to visualize the final positioned configuration before actual welding and installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If convoluted pipe configurations with angled fittings are constructed, then the adaptability to fit around obstacles is improved, but the measurement and fabrication difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by constructing a mock pipe run assembly that physically represents the final pipe configuration before actual fabrication. This mock assembly is built using adjustable components that can be positioned to match the desired pipe run geometry, allowing measurements to be taken directly from the assembled model rather than using flexible tape measures. The mock assembly serves as a preliminary physical model that captures the precise spatial relationships and dimensions needed for accurate fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a mock pipe run assembly as a mediator between the design specifications and the actual pipe fabrication. This intermediate physical model translates abstract measurement requirements into tangible, measurable dimensions. The mock assembly acts as a bridge that allows workers to visualize and measure the final configuration directly, eliminating the need for complex tape measure calculations and improving dimensional accuracy.
4Device complexity
If traditional measurement methods are used for pipe runs, then the equipment simplicity is maintained, but the productivity and efficiency of pipe fitting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by constructing a mock pipe run assembly that physically represents the final pipe configuration before actual fabrication. This mock assembly is built using adjustable components that can be positioned to match the desired pipe run geometry, allowing measurements to be taken directly from the assembled model rather than using flexible tape measures. The mock assembly serves as a preliminary physical model that captures the precise spatial relationships and dimensions needed for accurate fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a mock pipe run assembly as a mediator between the design specifications and the actual pipe fabrication. This intermediate physical model translates abstract measurement requirements into tangible, measurable dimensions. The mock assembly acts as a bridge that allows workers to visualize and measure the final configuration directly, eliminating the need for complex tape measure calculations and improving dimensional accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for fitting pipe by creating a mock layout from a parts kit that can include adjustable components. Once the mock layout has been constructed and positioned as desired, a user can take precise measurements of the mock layout to construct the pipe weldment based on the lengths and angles of the mock layout, thus enabling a pipe fitter to construct a weldment to replace the mock layout with, thereby more easily constructing a weldment to fit within a desired location and orientation. The parts kit can include components having adjustable lengths and a plurality of adjustable and/or selectable angle portions.