A computer implemented method of determining at least one configuration parameter of a nested fluid transport pipe
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Maintaining the position of the inner pipe within the outer pipe in nested fluid transport systems is challenging, especially in hard-to-reach areas, and the use of spacers can cause pressure drops and flow-related issues.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using computational fluid dynamics simulation to determine configuration parameters that induce a swirling motion in the fluid stream, centering the inner pipe within the outer pipe without the need for spacers, by generating a lift force through tangential velocity components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If spacers are used to maintain the position of the inner pipe within the outer pipe, then the inner pipe remains centered, but pressure drops and flow-related issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes spacers from the nested pipe system entirely. By extracting this supporting element, the system eliminates the harmful effects of spacers (pressure drops, flow resistance, installation complexity) while maintaining the inner pipe's centered position through fluid dynamic forces alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid flowing through the annular space between the inner and outer pipes generates swirling motion that automatically centers the inner pipe. The system uses its own operating fluid to provide the centering function, eliminating the need for external spacers and their associated problems.
2Stability of the object's composition
If spacers are used to maintain the position of the inner pipe, then the inner pipe remains centered, but installation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By removing spacers from the system, the invention eliminates the complex and time-consuming installation process associated with spacer placement, particularly in hard-to-reach areas such as underground installations or angular configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves self-centering through the fluid flow itself, requiring no manual installation of supporting elements. The inner pipe automatically centers once fluid flows through the annular space, dramatically simplifying and accelerating the installation process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If spacers are used to maintain the position of the inner pipe, then the inner pipe remains centered, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention simplifies the nested pipe system by removing spacers and their associated mounting hardware, connection mechanisms, and adjustment components. This reduction in parts directly decreases system complexity while maintaining the essential function of inner pipe centering.
4Ease of operation
If the nested pipe is installed in hard to reach areas or at angular turns without spacers, then installation becomes easier, but maintaining the inner pipe position becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid flow automatically generates the centering force in any installation configuration, including hard-to-reach areas and angular turns. The system adapts to the installation geometry without requiring manual intervention or specialized spacer components for each scenario.
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
This method simplifies construction, reduces pressure drops, and enhances system efficiency by eliminating the need for spacers, while improving heat exchange and fluid circulation performance.
Implementation Method 1
a computational fluid dynamics simulation is performed using the received design constraint to determine a swirl number that is representative of the swirling motion of the fluid stream passed through the pipe
Implementation Method 2
generating a lift force through tangential velocity components
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of determining configuration parameters for a nested fluid transport pipe consisting of an inner and outer pipe. The method involves receiving design constraints for the pipe and performing a computational fluid dynamics simulation to determine a swirl number that represents the swirling motion of the fluid stream. The simulation is performed under the condition that the inner pipe is centred with respect to the outer pipe. Based on the determined swirl number, the method calculates at least one configuration parameter for the nested fluid pipe to achieve the desired level of swirl in the fluid.