Automated Pipe Marking Device for Insertion Depth Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Incorrectly placed markings on pipe sections connected using fittings can lead to loose connections, leaks, and potential damage, as manual markings are prone to errors and can be intentionally or unintentionally omitted during installation.

Innovation Solution

A marking device with a positioning mechanism that automatically applies markings at the correct distance from the pipe end corresponding to the prescribed insertion depth, ensuring accurate alignment and preventing forgery or removal of the markings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If manual marking is used on pipe sections, then the marking can be applied quickly and with simple equipment, but the marking position accuracy deteriorates and errors cannot be ruled out

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of marking applicationVSAvoidmarking position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical marking with an automated marking device that uses a positioning mechanism relative to the pipe end. The device automatically positions the marking element at a predetermined distance from the pipe end, eliminating manual measurement and marking operations while ensuring consistent, accurate positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The marking device is designed to automatically determine its own positioning relative to the pipe end through mechanical engagement or sensing mechanisms. The system self-regulates the marking position based on the pipe geometry and predetermined parameters, without requiring external measurement or manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If hand-drawn markings are used to indicate insertion depth, then the marking process is simple and fast, but the reliability deteriorates due to accidental incorrect placement or intentional omission

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking speedVSAvoidmarking accuracy and authenticity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual marking operations with an automated marking device that mechanically ensures correct positioning. The device incorporates a positioning mechanism that automatically aligns the marking with the pipe end at a predetermined distance, eliminating human error and intentional misconduct while maintaining high marking speed through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The marking device incorporates a positioning feedback mechanism that continuously monitors and adjusts the marking position relative to the pipe end. The system uses mechanical sensors or geometric constraints to detect pipe end position and automatically corrects any deviation from the predetermined marking distance, ensuring reliable and accurate marking placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If markings are made by hand at the correct distance from pipe end, then the process requires minimal equipment, but the consistency and permanence of markings deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment simplicityVSAvoidmarking consistency and permanence
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual marking tools with an automated marking device that incorporates a positioning mechanism. The device uses mechanical guides, sensors, or geometric constraints to automatically maintain the correct distance from the pipe end, ensuring consistent and permanent marking placement without requiring complex equipment setup or manual measurement tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3698927A1Marking device for applying a marking to the outside of a pipe piece
Publication Date: 2020.08.26 GDK UNTERNEHMENSBERATUNG FRANKEN GMBH
  • EP3698927A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3698927A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3698927A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

A marking device for applying a mark to the outside of a pipe section is described. The described marking device is characterized by a positioning device which automatically positions the marking-generating device relative to an adjacent pipe section end such that the mark generated on the pipe section by the marking-generating device is at a distance from the pipe section end that corresponds to the prescribed insertion depth of the pipe section end into a fitting to be attached to it.