Collapsible Pipe Portal Catcher for STPD Device Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in extracting smaller-than-pipe-diameter (STPD) devices from pipelines operating under high-pressure, high-velocity, or viscous fluid conditions, as traditional pig launchers and receivers may not be feasible or available.
Innovation Solution
The mechanism employs STPD portals installed on the pipeline sidewall, utilizing a capture net and double-valve chamber for pressure equalization, allowing for the extraction of STPD devices without relying on traditional launchers and receivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pig launchers and receivers are used for STPD device extraction, then extraction capability is provided, but device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential function of pig receivers (catching and holding pigs) and implements it through a simplified catch mechanism within the portal assembly, eliminating the need for separate complex launcher and receiver systems. The portal assembly integrates the catching function directly at the extraction point.
Solution Approach 2:
The portal assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as both the insertion point for STPD devices and the extraction point, combining functions that traditionally required separate launchers and receivers. The same portal structure handles both device entry and retrieval operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If STPD portals are used for device extraction, then ease of installation is improved, but pressure equalization requirements increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The double-valve chamber is nested within the portal assembly structure, with the chamber containing both valves integrated into the portal body. This nested arrangement allows pressure equalization functionality to be incorporated without adding external complexity to the portal installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The double-valve chamber acts as an intermediary pressure equalization zone between the high-pressure pipeline and the external environment. The chamber mediates the pressure transition, allowing safe device extraction while maintaining pipeline pressure integrity.
3Reliability
If capture net is deployed in high-velocity flow, then STPD device capture effectiveness is improved, but force requirements and structural loads increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capture net is designed to be deployable and retractable, allowing it to be positioned in the flow path only when needed for device capture. The net can be dynamically deployed into the pipeline flow to intercept STPD devices and then retracted to minimize structural loading during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture net utilizes a flexible mesh structure that can conform to the pipeline flow and device geometry. This flexible film structure captures devices effectively while distributing hydrodynamic forces across the net and portal structure, reducing peak loads compared to rigid capture mechanisms.
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
This solution enables the effective retrieval of STPD devices from challenging pipeline conditions, bridging the gap when traditional extraction methods are unavailable, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of pipelines.
Implementation Method 1
double-valve chamber for pressure equalization
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a mechanism for extracting smaller than pipe diameter (STPD) devices which are freely moving through a pipeline. While other functions are possible, current state of the art uses STPD balls to inspect difficult to inspect pipelines. Disclosed is a novel means for extracting these STPD devices once their mission within the pipe is complete. Since the mechanism collapses during the insertion and retrieval phases, it is able to extract a STPD device from an opening in the mainline pipe which is only slightly larger than maximum diameter of the STPD device being retrieved. The disclosed mechanism is optimized to make it especially useful for retrieving STPD devices from pipes which are operating under difficult flow conditions such as low or high velocities, or high-pressure, or with high viscosity.