Irrigation Pipe Retrieval with Automated Joint Decoupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for retrieving and disassembling agricultural irrigation systems, particularly those with extensive pipe networks, are labor-intensive and time-consuming, and existing machines face challenges with maintaining vertical orientation of risers and handling long pipe sections.

Innovation Solution

A pipe retrieval machine with a decoupling region, transporting mechanism, and safety features that include gripping structures, a drive system, and a decoupling device capable of automatically engaging and releasing pipe joints, allowing for steady-state movement and selective speed control to detach pipe sections, along with safety features like emergency stops and a light curtain to prevent damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual disassembly methods are used, then labor flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisassembly speedVSAvoidmachine structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pipe retrieval machine divides the disassembly process into distinct functional segments: a transporting mechanism with gripping structures for pipe conveyance, a decoupling device for joint separation, and safety features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, automating the entire disassembly process while maintaining manageable system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The machine enables self-service automation where the pipe retrieval system performs disassembly operations independently. The transporting mechanism automatically conveys pipes, the decoupling device automatically separates joints, and safety features automatically prevent damage, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention and significantly reducing labor intensity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If automated retrieval machines are used, then labor intensity is reduced, but maintaining vertical orientation of risers becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabor requirementVSAvoidriser orientation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The machine creates equipotential conditions for riser handling by maintaining a consistent vertical orientation throughout the retrieval process. The transporting mechanism and decoupling device are configured to work in coordination, ensuring that risers remain in a stable vertical position during pipe conveyance and joint decoupling, preventing tilting or damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #12Equipotentiality

3Productivity

If high speed retrieval is implemented, then productivity increases, but risk of damage to pipe components increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretrieval speedVSAvoidcomponent integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The machine incorporates beforehand cushioning through its safety features, which are designed to prevent damage before it can occur. The transporting mechanism uses controlled gripping forces, and the decoupling device employs gradual separation methods, both engineered to maintain component integrity even during high-speed operations. Emergency stop mechanisms provide additional protection against unintended damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic control where the transporting mechanism and decoupling device can adjust their operation speeds and forces. This dynamic capability allows the machine to maintain high productivity while automatically adapting to the specific conditions of each pipe section, preventing excessive forces that could cause damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Measurement precision

If steady state movement is maintained, then control precision improves, but ability to handle varying pipe configurations decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition controlVSAvoidpipe configuration handling

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The pipe retrieval machine achieves universality through its transporting mechanism with adjustable gripping structures and a versatile decoupling device. These components are designed to handle various pipe diameters, joint types, and configurations while maintaining steady state movement and precise position control. The safety features further enhance versatility by providing universal protection across different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11543054B2Pipe retrieval apparatus, system, and method

Publication Date: 2023.01.03 NORTH AMERICAN PIPE CORP

AI summary

A pipe retrieval machine includes a frame defining a decoupling region and a travel axis and a transporting mechanism supported on the frame. The transporting mechanism has a first gripping structure adjacent an infeed end of the machine and a second gripping structure adjacent an outfeed end of the machine. The decoupling region is between the first and second gripping structures. The machine has a drive system to move the first and second gripping structures at a steady state speed to direct a pipe along the travel axis. The pipe retrieval machine includes one or more safety features to stop the drive system either automatically or through manual action, one or more safety features to inhibit or prevent damage to components of the decoupling region in the event of a malfunction, or both. Methods of operating a pipe retrieval machine include any of the operation procedures, method steps, safety features, and/or functions as described and in any combination.