Expandable Pipe Seal Locking Sleeve for Internal Leak Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional internal pipe repair systems using expandable metal sleeves are complex and costly, necessitating a need for improved methods and apparatus to seal and maintain pipe systems effectively.
Innovation Solution
An expandable pipe seal comprising a sleeve formed from sheet material rolled into a cylindrical shape with locking structures, including an elongate slot with detent features and a V-shaped spring member, allows for expansion and secure locking in the expanded configuration to maintain the seal against the pipe wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional expandable sleeve sealing systems are used, then pipe leaks can be sealed from the interior, but the mechanisms required to maintain the sleeve in the expanded state are complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into discrete modular components: elongate slots with detent features in the sleeve, and separate spring members with engagement features. These segmented elements work together to provide reliable locking while simplifying manufacturing and assembly compared to integrated complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring members are designed to automatically engage with the detent features when the sleeve expands, and to automatically maintain the expanded state without requiring external actuators or complex control systems. The elastic deformation of the spring members provides self-regulating locking force.
2Reliability
If conventional expandable sleeve sealing systems are used, then pipe leaks can be sealed from the interior, but the cost of the system is high due to complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is manufactured as a separate component with integrated elongate slots and detent features, while the spring members are manufactured as independent components. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function and manufactured using appropriate processes, reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring members are designed as simple elastic elements that can be manufactured at low cost using standard spring manufacturing techniques. While they provide reliable locking, their simple construction allows for economical production and potential replacement if needed, without requiring expensive materials or complex fabrication.
3Strength
If the sleeve is expanded to seal the leak, then the sealing material is compressed against the pipe wall, but the sleeve must be maintained in the expanded state without complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The spring members automatically engage with the detent features to maintain the sleeve in the expanded state. The elastic force of the spring members continuously applies outward pressure on the sleeve, ensuring the sealing material remains compressed against the pipe wall without requiring additional locking mechanisms or external force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism allows the sleeve to dynamically transition from the compressed delivery state to the expanded sealing state, and then maintains it in that state. The spring members provide continuous dynamic force to counteract any tendency of the sleeve to contract, ensuring sustained sealing pressure.
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 cost-effective and efficient method to seal leaks within pipe systems by expanding the sleeve and locking it in place, ensuring a reliable seal without the need for complex mechanisms, thus overcoming the drawbacks of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
the spring member deforms to facilitate expansion of the sleeve from the first condition toward the second condition, and the terminal ends of the spring member also engage the detent features to prevent movement of the sleeve in a direction toward the first condition
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable pipe seal includes a sleeve that is expandable from a first, compact configuration to a second, expanded configuration having a larger outer diameter than the first configuration. The sleeve may be formed from sheet material that is rolled into a cylindrical shape such that a first longitudinal edge of the sheet overlaps a second longitudinal edge of the sheet in a circumferential direction. The sleeve is provided with first and second locking structures that cooperate to facilitate expansion of the sleeve from the first configuration to the second configuration and, thereafter, maintain the sleeve in the expanded configuration. The pipe seal includes sealing structure disposed on an outer surface of the sleeve, and which is compressed against the inner wall of a pipe to be repaired in the second configuration of the sleeve.