Flexible Pipe Joint With Internal Venting to Replace Jumper Tubes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing flexible pipes together in an end-to-end configuration often rely on external jumper tubes, which are fragile and can cause obstructions, leading to uncontrolled gas escape or moisture ingress, potentially damaging the flexible pipe.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that secure flexible pipes together using an elongate tubular element with a raised central region and at least one vent passage, allowing gases trapped in the annulus regions to be transmitted internally through the connector, eliminating the need for external jumper tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external jumper tubes are used to transmit gases between annulus regions of connected flexible pipes, then gas venting is achieved, but the system becomes fragile and prone to obstructions causing uncontrolled gas escape or moisture ingress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the external jumper tube component entirely and extracts the gas venting function into the wall thickness of the connector itself. The vent passage is now an integral feature of the connector body rather than a separate external component, eliminating the fragility and obstruction risks associated with external jumper tubes while maintaining the gas transmission function.
Solution Approach 2:
The vent passage is nested within the wall thickness of the connector body. The passage extends through the radial thickness of the connector wall, creating an internal pathway that is protected from external damage and obstructions. This nesting approach allows the gas transmission function to be embedded within the structural component itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external jumper tubes with vent holes are used to connect pipes, then gas transmission is enabled, but the device complexity increases and maintenance becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the gas transmission function with the connector structure by integrating the vent passage directly into the connector body wall thickness. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate external jumper tubes and reduces the number of components, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining full gas transmission capability between annulus regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body serves multiple functions: it connects the flexible pipes mechanically and simultaneously provides an internal vent passage for gas transmission. This multi-functionality approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated venting components, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability for gas transmission.
3Reliability
If multiple vent passages are provided in the connector, then complete gas venting is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides for one or more vent passages extending through the wall thickness, where the number of passages can be optimized based on specific application requirements. This partial action approach allows manufacturers to produce connectors with a single vent passage for simpler applications or multiple passages for more demanding gas venting requirements, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving complete gas venting when necessary.
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 solution provides a robust and obstruction-free venting path for gases, reducing the risk of pipe damage and performance degradation, while simplifying pipeline maintenance and reducing the likelihood of gas leaks.
Implementation Method 1
at least one vent passage extending at least partially across the raised central region... providing a vent path from an annular region of the first flexible pipe to a corresponding annular region of the second flexible pipe via a vent passage
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for securing a flexible pipe to a further flexible pipe in an end-to-end configuration, wherein the apparatus includes and the method utilizes an elongate tubular element having a first and second end and an outer surface comprising a raised central region. At least one vent passage extends at least partially across the raised central region.