Multi-Section Pigging Pole with Segmented Telescopic Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pigging poles are cumbersome for transportation between worksites, require excessive force to retrieve pigs from pipelines, and lack effective means for retrieving pigs without a loop or with a damaged loop, and provide limited visibility during retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, multi-section pigging pole with a removable fastener and illumination system, allowing for adjustable length and easy transportation, and featuring a hook that can securely engage with the pig even when the loop is damaged, along with attachments for enhanced visibility and debris removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a single long pole is used to reach both launcher and catcher, then the pole can perform both insertion and retrieval operations, but the pole becomes cumbersome and difficult to transport between multiple pipelines
Solution Approach 1:
The pigging pole is divided into multiple telescopic sections that can be extended to the required length for reaching both launcher and catcher, and then retracted for compact storage and easy transport between different pipeline locations
Solution Approach 2:
The pole employs a telescopic mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of its length, enabling it to extend when needed for operation and contract when needed for transport, thus adapting to different operational and logistical requirements
2Length of moving object
If a single long pole is used to reach both launcher and catcher, then the pole can perform both insertion and retrieval operations, but the pole structure becomes complex and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The pole is segmented into multiple telescopic sections with locking mechanisms, allowing the pole to achieve extended length while maintaining a compact form when retracted, thus balancing operational reach with structural simplicity and portability
3Force
If excessive force is applied to remove tightly fitted pig, then the pig can be retrieved from pipe, but the loop on the pig may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
A foam pig hook attachment is provided as an intermediary tool that can engage with the pig body or lip instead of the loop, allowing retrieval without applying excessive force to the loop, thus protecting loop integrity while still enabling pig removal
Solution Approach 2:
The foam pig hook serves as a disposable or replaceable attachment that absorbs the mechanical stress of pig retrieval, protecting the more valuable pig loop from damage. The attachment can be replaced if worn, while the pig loop remains intact
4Ease of operation
If a hook is used to retrieve pig via loop, then the pig can be retrieved, but visibility of hook relative to loop is restricted in enclosed catcher area
Solution Approach 1:
The pig hook attachment incorporates high-visibility color coding or reflective materials that make it easily distinguishable in the enclosed catcher environment, improving the operator's ability to locate and manipulate the hook relative to the pig loop
Solution Approach 2:
The foam pig hook attachment serves as a visible intermediary tool with distinct visual characteristics that facilitate easy location and manipulation in the confined catcher space, overcoming the visibility limitations of traditional hooks
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-sectional portable pigging pole to retrieve a pig from a pipe. The pole having a first shaft member and a second shaft member configured to interlock so as to form a shaft that extends reach into the pipe to retrieve the pig from therein. The system comprised of a plurality of attachments for the shaft member to facilitate cleanout and pig removal.