Modular Grab Adapter Assembly for Variable Pipe Fitting Geometries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swage machines are limited in their ability to accommodate pipe fittings with different grab notch geometries, which restricts their versatility and efficiency in pipeline deployment.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a modular swage machine with a grab plate and die plate that includes pivotable sections and modular grab adapter sections with alignment notches and tabs, allowing for the securement of various pipe fittings by swapping modular sub-sections to match different geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed geometry grab plate is used in the swage machine, then the machine can securely grip one specific pipe fitting geometry, but it cannot accommodate pipe fittings with different grab notch geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The grab plate is divided into multiple interchangeable grab adapter sections that can be selectively attached to the die plate. Each adapter section has a specific geometry configured for a particular pipe fitting type. This segmentation allows the swage machine to accommodate different pipe fitting geometries by simply swapping adapter sections rather than redesigning the entire grab plate.
Solution Approach 2:
The die plate is designed with a universal attachment interface that can accommodate multiple types of grab adapter sections. This universal interface allows a single die plate to serve multiple functions by accepting different adapter geometries, thereby enabling the swage machine to handle various pipe fitting types without requiring multiple specialized die plates.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the swage machine is designed to accommodate multiple pipe fitting geometries, then versatility improves, but the time required for setup and configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple grab adapter sections are pre-configured with different geometries suitable for various pipe fitting types. These adapter sections are prepared in advance and can be quickly swapped onto the die plate when needed. The preliminary preparation of multiple adapter options eliminates the need for complex on-site adjustments or custom fabrications.
Solution Approach 2:
The grab adapter sections are designed to be dynamically interchangeable on the die plate through a quick-change attachment mechanism. This dynamic configuration allows operators to rapidly swap between different adapter geometries during pipeline deployment operations, minimizing downtime and maintaining workflow efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for implementing and/or deploying a swage machine, which includes a die plate that enables a die to be used to conformally deform a pipe fitting around pipe segment tubing to be loaded in the swage machine, a grab plate having grab plate sections that are pivotably connected, and grab adapter sections. Each grab adapter sections includes a base sub-section connected to a corresponding grab plate section, in which an inner surface of the base sub-section includes an alignment notch, and a modular sub-section to be secured to the base sub-section, in which an outer surface of the modular sub-section includes an alignment tab to be disposed within the alignment notch in the base sub-section and an inner surface of the modular sub-section includes a grab tab section that matingly interlocks with a fitting grab notch on the pipe fitting to facilitate securing the swage machine to the pipe fitting.