Pipe Thread Protector With Removable End Member for Faster Drifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe thread protectors require removal before drifting, which is time-consuming and inefficient, and there is a need for a more cost-effective solution that provides high impact resistance.
Innovation Solution
A pipe thread protector assembly with a removable impact-absorbing end member and interference-fit protrusion that allows for easy installation and removal during the drifting process, while maintaining structural integrity and preventing debris ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe thread protectors are used, then impact resistance is provided, but removal and reinstallation is required during drifting which consumes time
Solution Approach 1:
The protector is divided into two main segments: a tubular body that remains on the pipe and an end member that can be selectively removed. This segmentation allows the protective structure to stay in place while only the necessary component (end member) is removed for drifting operations, eliminating the need to remove and reinstall the entire protector.
Solution Approach 2:
The end member is designed with selective removability through threading and locking mechanisms, transitioning from a fixed protective state to a removable state during drifting, then back to protective state afterward. This dynamic design allows the protector to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements.
2Productivity
If the end member is made removable for drifting operations, then drifting efficiency is improved, but the structural integrity and impact protection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism (such as a locking screw) is pre-configured to secure the end member to the tubular body before drifting operations. This preliminary securing action ensures that during normal handling and transport, the end member remains firmly attached, maintaining full structural integrity and impact protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable end member is specifically designed to provide impact protection at the vulnerable end opening of the tubular body, while the threaded coupling and locking mechanism provide localized strength at the connection point. This localized quality approach ensures that removability is achieved only where necessary without compromising overall structural integrity.
3Ease of operation
If a threaded coupling system is used for the end member, then selective removal is enabled, but the complexity of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threading mechanism and locking mechanism are merged into a single integrated system. The end member features external threading that engages with internal threading in the tubular body, and the locking screw integrates both the locking function and the removal function. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded coupling system is designed to be self-securing through the locking mechanism, which when tightened, automatically secures the end member without requiring additional fasteners or complex assembly steps. The same threading structure that enables removal also enables secure attachment, making the system self-sufficient.
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 assembly enables efficient drifting operations by allowing the protector to remain in place, reducing installation and removal time, and providing enhanced impact protection and sealing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The protrusion so deformed inhibits removal of the pipe from the tubular body thereafter
Implementation Method 2
an impact-absorbing end member connecting to and extending laterally across the tubular body
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a pipe thread protector according to a first aspect. The pipe thread protector includes a tubular body shaped to protect a threaded end portion of a pipe or a pipe coupling. The tubular body includes an inner portion with a first of right-handed and left-handed threading. The tubular body includes an outer portion with a second of right-handed and left-handed threading. The pipe thread protector includes an end member. The end member includes the second of right-handed and left-handed threading via which the end member threadably couples to the outer portion of the tubular body. The pipe thread protector includes a locking member with a first position in which removal of the end member from the tubular body is inhibited. The locking member is moveable from the first position thereof to a second position in which the end member is selectively removable from the tubular body.