PE Pipe Service Quick Connect for Hot Tapping and Plugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for performing hot tap, plugging, and completion operations on polyethylene pipes lack efficient and secure methods for connecting service machines to the pipes, leading to challenges in accessing the pipe interior for servicing.
Innovation Solution
A polyethylene pipe service system utilizing a valve with a cam profile and a machine with a complementary cam profile, allowing for quick and secure connection through a mating mechanism that includes tabs and stair-stepped channels, enabling efficient hot tapping, plugging, and completion operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connection methods are used for polyethylene pipe service machines, then the connection process is simple in structure, but the connection time is long and the security of connection is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The cam profile mechanism is pre-configured on both the valve and machine components. When connected, the cam profiles automatically engage through a limited rotation, pre-positioning the components in the correct alignment and securing the connection without requiring manual alignment or multiple adjustment steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam profile utilizes curved surfaces and rotational geometry to transform a simple rotational motion into a secure, multi-point mechanical engagement. The curved cam surfaces guide the components into proper alignment and lock them together through geometric constraint during rotation.
2Reliability
If a secure connection mechanism is implemented, then the connection reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam profile mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: alignment guidance, mechanical engagement, and locking action are all achieved through the cam profile geometry itself, eliminating the need for separate alignment features, locking devices, or adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam profile mechanism serves multiple purposes: it guides the machine into proper alignment with the valve, secures the connection through mechanical engagement, and provides a positive lock through the geometric constraint of the cam surfaces, making it a multi-functional connection system.
3Productivity
If a quick connect mechanism is used, then the connection time is reduced, but the ease of operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection process is segmented into a controlled rotational motion along the cam profile path, breaking down the complex alignment and securing operations into a single, guided movement that is easier to execute than manual alignment of multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved cam profile guides the operator's rotational input smoothly through the connection process, transforming a potentially complex multi-step alignment procedure into a single, intuitive rotational motion that is easy to perform and control.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a polyethylene (“PE”) pipe servicing system of this disclosure may include a fusible PE fitting (F) providing a branch connection to a PE pipeline section or run (P), a valve (10) connected to the fitting and including quick connect/disconnect means, and a machine connectable to the valve including complementary quick connect/disconnect means. The quick connect means provide for full scope of operation, including cleaning, fusion, cool down, hot tap, plugging, and completion. No squeezing is used. The quick connect/disconnect means may include a first portion 20 of a cam profile and a second portion 40 of the cam profile complementary to that of the first. The machine may be a drilling or hot tapping machine (30T), a plugging machine (30P), or a completion machine (30C), and their associated tools. The valve and machine are more lightweight and faster and easier to use than the prior art.