Pipe Gripping Mechanism With Automatic Release Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping apparatuses for pipes in refineries, petro-chemical plants, and power plants lack a mechanism for automatic release, relying on manual operation or simple mechanical means that do not ensure secure or safe handling.
Innovation Solution
A gripping apparatus with a collective insertion-retraction mechanism incorporating springs and connectors that automatically release, utilizing ball or wedge actuated designs with spring-actuated balls, rollers, or disks to securely grip the pipe without damaging it, and can be easily retracted for safe removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation or simple mechanical means are used for gripping apparatus, then device complexity is reduced, but operational safety and ease of operation deteriorate due to lack of automatic release mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping apparatus is designed to automatically release itself from the pipe through a collective insertion-retraction mechanism. When the plug is pulled, the mechanism automatically triggers the gripping elements to retract and release, eliminating the need for manual intervention and improving operational safety
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements transition from a static gripping state to a dynamic release state through the collective insertion-retraction mechanism. The springs and connectors enable the system to dynamically respond to insertion or extraction forces, automatically transitioning between gripping and releasing states
2Reliability
If gripping force is increased to prevent accidental ejection, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to difficulty in removal
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping force is dynamically adjusted through the collective insertion-retraction mechanism. During normal operation, strong gripping force prevents ejection, but when removal is initiated, the mechanism automatically triggers release, allowing easy removal despite strong initial grip
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism is pre-configured with springs and connectors that are ready to trigger automatic release when removal forces are applied. This preliminary setup ensures that removal can be easily initiated without requiring excessive force to overcome the gripping mechanism
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
The apparatus provides a secure grip on pipes, preventing accidental ejection and ensuring safe handling during maintenance, testing, or connection procedures, while allowing for easy release and retraction without manual intervention, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A gripping apparatus with a collective insertion-retraction mechanism incorporating springs and connectors that automatically release
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2A
AI summary
A gripping apparatus for use in gripping a pipe, for holding forces, or restraining relative movement. The pipe defines an inside radius. The gripping apparatus has an outer surface where the outer surface defines a transition surface or a curve. In certain embodiments the transition surface or curve has a radius less than or equal to the inside radius of the pipe.