Pipe Tape Wrapping Rollers for Tensioned Leak Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for repairing leaks in pressurized fluid flow conduits, such as those using self-fusing or self-amalgamating tape, face issues with manual tape wrapping, requiring high tensile loads, potential tape snapping, and the need for a curved plate that adds weight and complexity, leading to increased friction and risk of damage.
Innovation Solution
A tape wrapping and dispensing device with a rectangular arrangement of rollers, where the lower dispensing roller directly contacts the pipe to apply tension and press the tape onto the surface, eliminating the need for a curved plate and allowing simultaneous wrapping and pressing, and a venting tool with a tapered bar and groove system to manage escaping gas during the repair process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a curved plate is used to guide the tape during wrapping, then the tape can be directed onto the pipe surface, but the device weight increases and friction increases causing higher risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the curved plate component from the device structure. Instead of using a curved plate to guide the tape, the invention uses a roller arrangement where the tape is fed directly between rollers that guide it onto the pipe surface, eliminating the unnecessary component that added weight and friction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rollers as intermediary elements between the tape supply and the pipe surface. The rollers actively guide and press the tape onto the pipe, replacing the passive curved plate structure with an active rolling mechanism that reduces friction and damage risk
2Device complexity
If manual wrapping is used to apply the tape, then the process is simple, but high tensile loads are required causing potential tape snapping
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically applies the tape around the pipe through the rotational movement of the pipe itself. As the pipe rotates, the tape is fed onto it and pressed by the rollers, eliminating the need for manual wrapping operations and the associated high tensile loads that could cause tape snapping
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical wrapping system with an automated system where the pipe's own rotation drives the tape application process. The rollers provide controlled tension and pressing without requiring high tensile loads from manual operation
3Productivity
If the lower dispensing roller is in direct contact with the pipe, then simultaneous wrapping and pressing is achieved, but the roller must withstand high friction and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that the lower dispensing roller should be rotatable and in direct contact with the pipe, allowing it to rotate with the pipe's motion. This design change enables the roller to withstand friction through rotation rather than sliding, reducing wear while maintaining the benefit of simultaneous wrapping and pressing
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 device ensures efficient, direct application and pressing of tape onto the pipe, reducing friction and the risk of damage, while the venting tool effectively manages gas escape during the repair, ensuring a secure and complete seal.
Implementation Method 1
the tension rollers being configured to grip the stretchable tape, in use, such that the device applies a tensile load to the stretchable tape
Implementation Method 2
the lower dispensing roller acts to press the stretchable tape onto the pipe or elongate body as it is dispensed
Data Source
AI summary
A tape wrapping and dispensing device for wrapping stretchable tape around a pipe. The device has at least three tension rollers that are mounted at the dispensing end of a support plate, the tension rollers defining a first nip between an upper and intermediate roller and a second nip between the intermediate roller and a lower dispensing roller. In use, a free end of the stretchable tape can be removed from the supply roll and passed, first, between the first nip and then between the second nip before being secured to a pipe or other elongate body, and then, with the lower dispensing roller in direct contact with the stretchable tape secured to the pipe or other elongate body, the device can be moved in a first circumferential direction around the pipe to cause rotation of the lower dispensing roller and simultaneously dispense and wind the tape therearound.