Pipe Inside Diameter Gauge With Spring-Triggered Fail Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the inside diameter of pipes, particularly in pressurized oilfield and industrial applications, require expensive electronic devices and data processing capabilities, making them complex and costly, and there is a need for a simple, manually operable device that does not rely on electronic components or data processing.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical device with pivotable fingers and a spring mechanism that measures the inside diameter of pipes by determining if the diameter exceeds a predetermined value, allowing for manual operation without electronic components or data processing, using a system with an outer housing, pivotable fingers, and a spring that pivots based on the pipe's diameter, with optional features like an indicator rod and stabilizers for ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasonic testing or laser sensors are used to measure pipe inside diameter, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic measurement systems (ultrasonic transducers, laser sensors) with a purely mechanical measurement system consisting of a push rod, carrier, and pivotable fingers. The mechanical system uses physical contact and geometric relationships to measure inside diameter, eliminating the need for electronic components and data processing while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses simple, inexpensive mechanical components that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. The push rod, carrier, and fingers are basic mechanical elements that cost far less than electronic measurement systems, making the device economical and suitable for routine inspection applications.
2Productivity
If automated electronic measurement systems are used, then productivity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex setup and data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical measurement system is self-actuating through the interaction of the push rod, carrier, and pivotable fingers. As the push rod advances, it automatically drives the carrier and causes the fingers to pivot and indicate the inside diameter measurement. The system performs the measurement function automatically through its mechanical design, requiring no external power source or complex control system.
3Measurement precision
If electronic measurement devices are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of information increases due to reliance on electronic systems that may fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic measurement systems with a purely mechanical system that has no electronic components, power requirements, or data processing needs. The mechanical fingers and indicator provide direct, reliable measurement through physical contact and geometric relationships, eliminating failure modes associated with electronic systems.
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
Provides a reliable, cost-effective, and simple mechanical method to ensure the inside diameter of pipes is within acceptable tolerances, preventing pipe rupture during pressurized fluid transport by manually measuring the diameter without the need for electronic devices or data processing.
Implementation Method 1
a spring operatively connected to the fingers
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for measuring an inside diameter of a pipe to determine if it exceeds a predetermined value using a plurality of fingers operatively connected to a spring. When in a fully extended position, the distance between opposite fingers is the predetermined value. The fingers are pivotable between a starting position, through the fully extended position, and to a failing position. In the starting position, an outer end of each finger engages an inside surface of the pipe to compress the spring. If the diameter exceeds the predetermined value as the system moves through the pipe, the pipe inside surface will no longer engage the fingers, which releases the spring causing the fingers to pivot to the failing position, where they remain until the system is removed from the pipe and manually reset.