Modular Pipe Fusion Carriage for Tool-Free Tight-Space Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fusion apparatuses are large, wheeled, and fixed, making them difficult to maneuver in confined spaces, and their components require tools for assembly and disassembly, limiting their use in tight work environments such as within building walls.
Innovation Solution
A modular, lightweight carriage assembly with tool-free engagement and disengagement of components, allowing for easy assembly on existing pipes, accommodating various pipe sizes, and featuring a combined hydraulic cylinder and guide rod system for flexible use in tight spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing pipe fusion apparatus are used, then fusion capability is provided, but the apparatus are large and difficult to maneuver in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion apparatus is divided into separate modular components including a carriage, jaws, guide rods, and hydraulic cylinders that can be disassembled and transported independently through confined spaces, then assembled at the work site
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus transitions from a fixed, rigid structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable system where components can be moved, positioned, and adjusted as needed in confined work environments
2Ease of operation
If existing pipe fusion apparatus are used, then fusion capability is provided, but tool-free engagement and removal of pipe clamps is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through tool-free release features that allow operators to quickly engage and disengage pipe clamps without requiring external tools, improving operational efficiency
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing pipe fusion apparatus are used, then fusion capability is provided, but the apparatus are not modular and cannot be disassembled without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is segmented into distinct modular components connected by tool-free coupling mechanisms, allowing easy disassembly and reassembly without requiring special tools or complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate different pipe sizes and configurations, increasing the versatility and adaptability of the fusion apparatus
4Strength
If heavy, fixed carriage assemblies are used, then structural stability is provided, but weight and spatial requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The heavy carriage assembly is segmented into lighter modular components that can be distributed and positioned separately, reducing the weight burden during transport while maintaining structural stability when assembled
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and flexible pipe fusion in confined spaces with reduced weight and spatial requirements, allowing for customization and easy assembly without tools, and facilitates precise alignment and clamping, enhancing the ability to fuse pipes in close proximity.
Implementation Method 1
a carriage cylinder associated with each of the at least two guide rods. The carriage cylinder is mounted for reciprocal travel on its associated guide rod
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Modular carriage for varying spacing between ends of polymer pipe during fusion. The modular carriage (10) includes a fixed jaw (12); an inner movable jaw (14); an outer moveable jaw (16) and a plurality of guide rods (24/26). The fixed jaw (12) being adapted for tool free engagement with the terminal ends of the plurality of guide rods (24/26). A carriage cylinder (32/34) is associated with at least two of the guide rods (24/26) and mounted for reciprocal travel along the length of its associated guide rod. The movable jaws (14/16) being adapted for tool free engagement with at least two carriage cylinders (32/34) for reciprocal travel therewith. A combined hydraulic cylinder/guide rod (80) includes a guide rod (82) with an integral guide rod piston (88), a cylindrical tube (84), and a guide rod gland on each end of the cylinder tube (84).