Collapsible Pipe Crawler Drive Assembly for Easy Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe navigation systems face challenges in retrieving crawlers due to increased traction forces required for long distances, making them difficult to retrieve in the event of malfunctions, often necessitating excavation or cutting of the pipe.
Innovation Solution
A navigation apparatus with a collapsible drive assembly featuring a sacrificial connector that disengages from the pipe upon loading, allowing the apparatus to be passively collapsed and removed via a tether, eliminating the need for excavation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If increased traction force is applied by the crawler on the pipe to compensate for increased frictional loads over long distances, then the crawler can travel longer distances, but the crawler becomes difficult to retrieve by external means in the event of a malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assembly is designed with movable arms that can dynamically transition between an extended engaged configuration (for providing traction over long distances) and a retracted disengaged configuration (for enabling easy retrieval). The arms are pivotably coupled to allow movement between these states, transforming the static crawler into a dynamic system that can adapt its configuration based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive assembly is segmented into multiple movable arms that can independently pivot and collapse. This segmentation allows the drive assembly to be broken down into smaller components that can be stored within the body of the crawler, enabling both long-distance travel capability and easy retrieval by external means.
2Force
If outward force is exerted by the crawler on the pipe to provide traction, then the crawler can be driven within the pipe, but resistance against retrieving the crawler increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assembly transitions from a static force-exerting structure to a dynamic system where the arms can pivot to change the direction and application of force. During operation, the arms extend outward to exert traction force on the pipe; during retrieval, the arms collapse inward to eliminate resistance against external pulling forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive assembly temporarily discards its engaged configuration during retrieval operations, collapsing the arms to remove the obstruction to retrieval. The arms can then be recovered and re-engaged for subsequent travel operations, allowing the system to alternate between providing traction and allowing retrieval.
3Reliability
If the drive assembly maintains continuous engagement with the pipe wall, then stable propulsion is achieved, but the apparatus cannot be passively retrieved without excavation
Solution Approach 1:
The drive assembly is designed with pivotable arms that can dynamically switch between an engaged state (providing stable propulsion through continuous contact with the pipe wall) and a disengaged state (allowing passive retrieval). This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between maintaining reliable propulsion and enabling easy retrieval without excavation.
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 safe and efficient retrieval of the navigation apparatus from pipes without excavation, even in the event of malfunctions, by passively disengaging from the pipe, thus improving retrieval ability and increasing travel distance and load capacity.
Implementation Method 1
a movable core coupled to the body by a sacrificial connector... The sacrificial connector is configured to break in response to a loading on the tether
Implementation Method 2
a drive assembly configured to engage an interior wall of the pipe to propel the navigation apparatus through the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A navigation apparatus for use in navigating a pipe includes a body, a movable core coupled to the body by a sacrificial connector, and a drive assembly configured to engage an interior wall of the pipe to propel the navigation apparatus through the pipe. The drive assembly including a first arm, a second arm, and a wheel, wherein the first arm is pivotably coupled to the core and the wheel, and the second arm is pivotably coupled to the body and the wheel.