Pipe Joint Applicator Control for Consistent Field Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe jointing techniques require skilled labor and are prone to subjective variations, leading to inconsistent quality due to environmental and installer-specific factors.
Innovation Solution
A pipe joint applicator with a control device that provides target process parameters for controlling the production of pipe joints, allowing for precise monitoring and documentation of the jointing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual pipe jointing techniques are used by installers, then flexibility and adaptability in field conditions are improved, but manufacturing precision and quality consistency deteriorate due to subjective variations and environmental influences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical jointing operations with an automated applicator system that uses controlled mechanical forces, torques, and movements to produce consistent pipe joints. The system substitutes human skill-based mechanical actions with programmable mechanical systems that deliver repeatable results regardless of environmental conditions or installer variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements precise control of process parameters including applied force, torque, temperature, and timing to ensure consistent joint quality. By monitoring and controlling these parameters through sensors and feedback systems, the apparatus maintains manufacturing precision while adapting to different pipe materials, sizes, and field conditions through programmable parameter adjustments.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated pipe joint applicator with control device is used, then manufacturing precision and quality consistency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors and feedback control systems that monitor process parameters such as applied force, torque, temperature, and joint formation in real-time. This feedback enables automatic adjustment of process variables to maintain precision while reducing the need for complex manual intervention or overly sophisticated control algorithms, thereby managing device complexity through intelligent feedback loops.
3Adaptability or versatility
If skilled labor is required for pipe jointing, then adaptability to different conditions is improved, but productivity and cost efficiency deteriorate due to training requirements and labor intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-adjusting and self-monitoring system that automatically adapts to different pipe conditions without requiring skilled operator intervention. The apparatus includes self-diagnostic capabilities, automatic parameter adjustment, and guidance systems that enable unskilled or semi-skilled workers to operate the equipment effectively, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining adaptability through the system's inherent intelligence rather than human expertise.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a pipe joint applicator with a control device and a method for producing a joint between a first pipe element and a second pipe element. The pipe joint applicator with a control device thereby detects actual process parameters via means for actual value detecting. The pipe joint applicator with a control device and the method determines therefrom the target process parameters for process control means for controlling the process parameters to be delivered to a pipe joint to be made. The pipe joint applicator with a control device optionally compares at least one actual value of the process parameters to at least one target process parameter and, in the event of deviation from at least one tolerance value range, issues an alarm to the user and/or generates an error protocol.