Pipe Penetration Indicator Cap for Screeding and Post-Slab Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current process of screeding concrete slabs with pipe projections is time-consuming, prone to injuries, results in uneven surfaces, and can damage pipes, with existing solutions failing to address all associated issues.
Innovation Solution
An indicator cap for pipe penetrations that includes a cap body with a pipe engaging portion and a capping portion, featuring a resilient projection or magnet for aiding location, which allows screeding without impeding the process and indicates the pipe's position post-screeding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pipe projections are left exposed above the slab surface for subsequent connection, then accessibility for plumbing/electrical installations is improved, but the screeding process becomes time-consuming and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the pipe end from the screeding process by capping it with an indicator cap that allows concrete to be screeded over and around it without obstruction. The cap is removed after screeding, providing clean access to the pipe end for connection work.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator cap is installed on the pipe end before the screeding process begins. This preliminary action protects the pipe end from concrete ingress and allows the screeding machine to operate continuously without stopping to navigate around exposed pipe projections.
2Ease of operation
If pipe projections are left exposed above the slab surface, then subsequent connection access is improved, but operator safety deteriorates due to trip hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator cap removes the hazardous exposed pipe projection from the work area during screeding. The cap creates a smooth surface that eliminates trip hazards while the pipe connection access is maintained through the cap's opening after removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator cap serves as an intermediary object between the pipe end and the screeding process. It temporarily covers the pipe end during screeding to eliminate hazards, then is removed to provide access, mediating between safety requirements and connection needs.
3Reliability
If traditional blocking methods (cloth rags, paper, tape) are used to block pipe ends, then concrete ingress is prevented, but all associated screeding problems remain unresolved
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator cap is an intermediary device that replaces inadequate blocking methods. It provides reliable concrete blockage prevention through its cap structure while simultaneously solving screeding problems by allowing the screeding machine to pass over it without obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator cap performs multiple functions: it blocks concrete ingress like traditional methods, but also serves as a screeding guide, a safety cover, and an access provider after removal. This multi-functionality resolves the limitations of single-purpose blocking methods.
4Ease of operation
If exposed pipe projections are used, then future connection access is enabled, but pipe damage risk increases during screeding
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator cap provides beforehand protection by covering the pipe end before the screeding process begins. This prior cushioning prevents concrete from entering and damaging the pipe while allowing the screeding machine to operate safely around the protected pipe end.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator cap acts as an intermediary protective barrier between the pipe end and the screeding environment. It shields the pipe from potential damage during screeding while maintaining the pipe's accessibility for future connection work.
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 indicator cap facilitates efficient screeding, prevents pipe damage, ensures a level surface, and allows easy location of pipes post-screeding, reducing injuries and costs while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient projection or magnet for aiding location, which allows screeding without impeding the process and indicates the pipe's position post-screeding
Implementation Method 2
a resilient projection or magnet for aiding location
Data Source
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AI summary
This disclosure relates to an indicator cap for a pipe penetration. In one aspect, the indicator cap comprises a cap body, wherein the cap body comprises an engagement portion for engaging the indicator cap with the pipe, and a capping portion connected to the engagement portion for covering an open end of the pipe, and wherein a surface of the capping portion supports a means for aiding location of the indicator cap and thus the pipe, wherein the means for aiding location is adapted so as to not impede screeding thereover, and to indicate the position of the cap and thus the pipe post screeding.