Threaded Pipe-End Protector Assembly for Sealed Reusable Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protector assemblies for threaded tubular connections fail to effectively protect external threads from deformation, contamination, and damage, especially in premium connections with special features like sealing surfaces and performance-enhancing coatings, during storage and reuse.
Innovation Solution
A protector assembly comprising two shell members with longitudinally extending walls and covers that form a tubular enclosure around the threaded pipe end, providing a strong seal and additional features like internal threads, RFID tags, and visual indicia to prevent contamination and ensure correct alignment and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple cover is used to protect the pipe end, then the device complexity is reduced, but the protection reliability against contamination and deformation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The protector assembly is divided into multiple shell members (first shell member, second shell member, etc.) that can be assembled together to form a complete protective enclosure. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while maintaining comprehensive protection of the threaded connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The protector assembly uses nested shell members where inner shells are placed within outer shells, creating multiple layers of protection. The first shell member contains the threaded connection, while the second shell member provides additional protection, forming a nested structure that enhances reliability without excessive complexity.
2Strength
If premium threaded connections with special features are used, then the connection strength and sealing performance are improved, but the vulnerability to damage from deformation and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protector assembly is applied to the pipe end before the threaded connection is used or stored, establishing protective barriers in advance. The shell members are positioned to enclose the premium threaded connection, preventing contamination and deformation before they can occur during storage or handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The protector assembly uses shell members that can be formed from plastic or polymer materials, providing flexible yet protective enclosures. These shells conform to the pipe end and threaded connection, offering customized protection that adapts to the specific geometry of premium threaded connections while maintaining strength against external forces.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single-piece protector is used, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the ability to form reliable seals between components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protector is segmented into multiple shell members that can be manufactured separately using injection molding or other suitable processes, then assembled together. This segmentation allows each shell to be optimized for its specific manufacturing requirements while maintaining ease of production, and the assembly includes sealing features at the interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple shell members are combined through assembly with sealing features (such as sealing rings, gaskets, or integrated sealing structures) to create a complete protective enclosure. The sealing interfaces between shell members are designed to ensure reliable seals while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, combining the benefits of modular construction with effective sealing.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a protector assembly for the end of a pipe. The protector assembly comprising at least a first shell member and a second shell member. The first shell member comprises a first longitudinally extending wall and a first cover; the second shell member comprises a second longitudinally extending wall; and the shell members are configured to cooperate in an assembled configuration to form a tubular enclosure having an open end and an opposing closed end, the tubular enclosure arranged for enclosing the threaded end of the pipe, wherein the closed end is closed by the abutment of the first cover with the second longitudinally extending wall.