Modular Conical End Stopper for Easy Liner Plug Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing end plugs for liner systems in pipe and sewer rehabilitation are difficult and cumbersome to remove after use, even with suitable tools.

Innovation Solution

The end plug is designed with modular, interlocking profile parts that taper from the outside to the inside, featuring a cover part that can be reversibly attached via force and/or form locking, and includes a deflection roller unit for guiding cables and ropes, allowing easy assembly and disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional end plugs are used for liner systems, then structural stability is achieved, but removal becomes difficult and cumbersome even with suitable tools

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEase of removalVSAvoidStructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The end plug is divided into multiple profile parts (100-105) that can be separated from each other. Each profile part can be independently removed, transforming a monolithic difficult-to-remove structure into modular components that are easy to detach and handle separately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the end plug have different properties: the profile parts have tapered geometries for easy detachment in specific areas, while maintaining overall structural stability through their interlocking arrangement. The localized tapering creates weak points for removal without compromising the strength needed during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If modular profile parts are used, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEase of assemblyVSAvoidNumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple profile parts (100-105) are combined into a single functional end plug assembly that operates as one unit during use. The parts are designed to interlock and form a complete circular structure, merging multiple components into a unified device that provides both modularity for assembly and simplicity for operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The profile parts are designed with standardized tapered interfaces that can be universally assembled in different configurations. Each profile part serves multiple functions: structural support, interlocking with adjacent parts, and providing a controlled detachment point, reducing the need for specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3784949B1End stopper for liner systems
Publication Date: 2022.11.23 MULLER DIRK
  • EP3784949B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3784949B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3784949B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

The present invention relates to an end stopper (10) for liner systems for pipe and sewer rehabilitation with a liner which is arranged between two end stoppers (10) and can be acted upon by a pressure medium and can be applied reversibly to the circumference of the end stopper (10), characterized in that the end stopper (10) is composed, in cross section, of a plurality of profile parts (100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105) which are of part annular and/or part tubular shape and are conical, wherein at least one profile part (100) has a configuration that tapers conically from the inside to the outside.