Insulated Pipe Assembly Centering Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe holder technologies face limitations in centering pipes effectively, ensuring safety, and achieving repeatable results during foam insulation application.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a support member, lance assemblies, and caps that drive the outer jacket and inner pipe relative to each other to center the inner pipe within the outer jacket, allowing for precise positioning and injection of foam insulation between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional pipe holders are used to center the inner pipe within the outer jacket, then pipe centering is attempted, but the strength is insufficient and results are not repeatable
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe holder is divided into multiple segments including a first pipe holder portion inserted into the inner pipe, a second pipe holder portion engaging the outer jacket, and a connecting portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while collectively providing sufficient strength and precision for pipe centering.
Solution Approach 2:
The first pipe holder portion is inserted into the inner pipe, creating a nested structure where the pipe holder components are contained within the pipe assembly. This nesting approach allows the pipe holder to be positioned accurately within the pipe while maintaining structural integrity during the centering operation.
2Ease of operation
If traditional pipe holders are used for centering, then some centering capability is provided, but safety during operation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe holder components are pre-assembled with the insulation material already positioned between the inner pipe and outer jacket before the centering operation. The connecting portion is pre-configured to engage both the first and second pipe holder portions, ensuring that the centering action occurs in a controlled and safe manner without requiring complex operational steps.
3Manufacturing precision
If the support member is driven to center the pipes, then concentric positioning is achieved, but the complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support member serves multiple functions: it supports the outer jacket, provides a reference surface for the inner pipe to rest on, and acts as a driving element for the centering operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby simplifying the overall apparatus structure while maintaining high concentric positioning accuracy.
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
The apparatus ensures safe operation, achieves repeatable results, and maintains the inner pipe concentric with the outer jacket throughout the insulation process, enhancing the strength and stability of the pipe assembly.
Implementation Method 1
the pair of caps seal off opposing ends of the pipe assembly through which the foaming insulation is injected into the space between the inner pipe and outer jacket
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An apparatus (10) and method for manufacturing a pipe assembly (12) having an inner pipe (14) and an outer jacket (16) may include a support member (18), a pair of lance assemblies (38) and a pair of caps (54). The support member (18) supports the outer jacket (16) of the pipe assembly (12) and is drivable between a first position and a second position. The pair of lance assemblies (38) are configured to be inserted into opposing ends of the inner pipe (14) such that the pair of lance assemblies (38) engage an inner wall (47) of the inner pipe (14). One of the outer jacket (16) and the inner pipes (14) moves relative to the other of the outer jacket (16) and the inner pipe (14) to center the inner pipe (14) within the outer jacket (16) when the support member (18) is driven from the first position to the second position. Insulation (66) is inserted through at least one cap (54) into a space (17) between the inner pipe (14) and outer jacket (16).