Pipe End Insert With Open Loop For Easier Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit inserts for heat exchangers are difficult to install due to their design, which often requires precise alignment and can be challenging to introduce into the conduit without causing fouling reduction devices to separate.
Innovation Solution
The design of the insert features a winding with an open end loop that allows easier introduction by tilting and expanding the helix's diameter, ensuring secure fixation against the conduit walls once installed, and can include a torsion spring or rod for retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the insert uses a closed end loop design, then it provides stable fixation in the conduit, but it becomes difficult to introduce into the conduit without causing separation of fouling reduction devices
Solution Approach 1:
The end loop is designed to be open rather than closed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its shape during insertion. The loop can deform to pass through the conduit opening and then return to its original configuration to provide fixation, resolving the contradiction between stable fixation and ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert design changes the geometric parameter of the end loop from closed to open state. This parameter change allows the loop to flex and deform during insertion, facilitating easier introduction into the conduit while maintaining the ability to provide secure fixation once installed.
2Reliability
If the insert is designed with a rigid structure for secure retention, then it ensures reliable fouling reduction device retention, but it becomes challenging to introduce into the conduit
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is segmented into distinct functional zones: the open end loop for insertion, the helical winding for retention, and the gripping element for securing the fouling reduction device. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall insertion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert incorporates dynamic elements, particularly the open end loop that can deform during insertion and the helical winding that can compress and expand. This dynamic behavior reduces insertion complexity while maintaining retention reliability.
3Reliability
If the linear element is wound tightly to ensure secure fixation, then it prevents movement relative to the conduit, but it increases the difficulty of introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The helical winding has different local properties: tighter winding in the retention zone for secure fixation and an open end loop with larger pitch for easier insertion. This local quality variation resolves the contradiction between fixation security and introduction ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The open end loop is designed in advance to facilitate the preliminary action of insertion. The larger pitch and open configuration are prepared beforehand to allow easy introduction, after which the insert assumes its fixation function.
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
Facilitates faster and easier installation of the insert within the conduit, preventing movement relative to the conduit and ensuring effective retention of fouling reduction devices.
Implementation Method 1
The second end can for example be arranged outside the duct, while the first end is inside the duct. Alternatively, the second end can also be received in the conduit, it being understood that it is then closer to the opening of the conduit than the first end.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 6
AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly comprising a conduit (30) in which a fluid is intended to circulate and a conduit end insert (11), said insert comprising a linear element (21) wound in a helix and defining a set of at least two and at most fifteen loops (16-20) extending between a first and a second end, the first end being located further inside the conduit than the second end, in which the set of loops comprises at least one loop (16-19), called the large diameter loop, inside the conduit and whose external diameter when the insert is removed from the conduit is strictly greater than the internal diameter of the conduit, and characterized in that an end portion of the linear element wound in a helix corresponding to the first end defines an open loop (20), called the end loop.