Pipe Alignment Tool Chain Support Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning and joining pipes, especially large ones, are cumbersome and require manual assistance due to difficulties in precision alignment and leveling, especially in confined spaces or when pipes are hard to reach.
Innovation Solution
A pipe alignment tool comprising a chain with interconnected links and an alignment bar with a chain support and elongate bar, allowing the chain to lasso around a pipe, be secured, and lifted for precise alignment and joining, using a scissor-jack for leverage to achieve end-to-end abutment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual methods are used for aligning and joining pipes, then flexibility in confined spaces is improved, but precision alignment and leveling deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool acts as an intermediary device between the pipe and the worker. It includes a chain with a ring that can be passed through the pipe, and an alignment bar with a chain support that guides the chain. This intermediary mechanism enables precise alignment and leveling while maintaining flexibility in confined spaces, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and manufacturing precision.
2Device complexity
If traditional pipe alignment methods are used, then simplicity of the tool is improved, but manual effort and time required deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool is segmented into distinct functional components: a chain with a ring for securing to the pipe, an alignment bar for positioning, and a chain support for guiding the chain. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing the overall time and manual effort required while maintaining tool simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The chain is preliminarily secured to the pipe by passing it through the ring before the alignment operation begins. The alignment bar is preliminarily positioned to guide the chain through the chain support. These preliminary actions prepare the system in advance, reducing the time and effort needed during the actual alignment and joining process.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is achieved for pipe joining, then joining accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the alignment process deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment bar serves as an intermediary guide between the chain support and the pipe. It features a chain support with a receiving slot that guides the chain, and an elongate bar with a pipe contacting member that ensures precise positioning. This intermediary mechanism achieves high joining accuracy while keeping the overall process relatively simple through its straightforward geometric design.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe alignment tool may be used to hoist and align two pipe ends and may comprise: a chain and an alignment bar. The alignment bar may comprise: an elongate bar with a pipe contacting member and a chain support slidably coupled to the elongate bar for guiding and retaining the chain. The method for aligning two pipe ends may comprise the steps of: providing the pipe alignment tool; lassoing the chain around a first pipe; guiding and securing the chain to the chain support of the pipe alignment tool; hoisting the chain and first pipe by lifting the alignment bar; and aligning the two pipe ends by repositioning the elongate bar and engaging an upper portion of the second pipe with the pipe contacting member.