Pipe Coupon Retainer With Detent Leg for Leak-Free Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupon extraction tools face difficulties in removing pipe coupons from pressurized pipes without causing leakage in fluid distribution systems, especially when the pipes are buried and pressurized.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupon extraction tool with a detent member and biasing element that catches onto the pipe coupon, allowing for secure removal by extending radially outward to facilitate movement and alignment during extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pipe coupon is cut from a pressurized pipe using a conventional extraction tool, then the pipe coupon can be removed, but fluid leakage occurs from the pipe system
Solution Approach 1:
The detent member is designed to dynamically change its radial position between retracted and extended states. During insertion, the leg is radially inward to pass through the hole. Upon engagement, the leg extends radially outward to catch on the pipe coupon and maintain alignment during extraction, preventing leakage while enabling easy removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent member acts as an intermediary between the tool and the pipe coupon. It transfers and maintains the alignment relationship between the tool axis and the pipe coupon axis during the extraction process, ensuring the coupon is pulled straight out without causing fluid leakage from the pressurized system.
2Reliability
If the detent member leg is extended radially outward to catch the pipe coupon, then secure engagement and alignment are achieved, but the tool structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detent member transitions from a static to a dynamic structure. The leg can change its radial position based on operational requirements: retracted during insertion to minimize interference, and extended during extraction to provide secure engagement and alignment. This dynamic behavior reduces the need for additional complex components.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent member provides more alignment engagement than strictly necessary for basic removal, extending radially outward to ensure the pipe coupon remains perfectly aligned with the tool axis. This excessive action guarantees leak-free extraction from pressurized systems but adds some structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the leg is pushed radially inward during insertion, then the detent member can pass through the hole, but the biasing element must overcome spring force
Solution Approach 1:
The detent member is designed to dynamically change its radial position. During insertion, the leg is pushed radially inward against the biasing force of the spring to pass through the hole. The spring force is calibrated to be overcome during insertion but to automatically extend the leg upon engagement, providing secure catching without requiring excessive insertion force.
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
Enables the removal of pipe coupons without leakage, maintaining the alignment of the pipe coupon axis with the tool axis, ensuring efficient and leak-free extraction even from pressurized systems.
Implementation Method 1
the leg biased in a radially outward direction by one of a wall of the recess or a biasing element of the tool
Data Source
AI summary
A cutting tool which includes a cutter operable to cut a hole defining a first diameter; and a drill bit mechanically coupled to the cutter, the drill bit operable to cut a hole defining a second diameter which can be smaller than the first diameter, the drill bit further includes a tool body having a recess and a detent member mechanically coupled to the tool body which can include a leg extending from the tool body and sized to be received within the recess upon one of deformation and movement of the leg, the leg biased in a radially outward direction by one of a wall of the recess and a biasing element of the tool.