Pipeline Connection Fitting Insertion for Internal Service Tapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline maintenance and installation methods face challenges in efficiently and accurately inserting T-connectors and other fittings into pre-drilled apertures within pipeline walls, leading to instability and inefficiency in forming secure service connections.
Innovation Solution
A robotic apparatus with propulsion and installation means, including a storage device, conveyance device, and insertion device, which uses a translating device with reciprocatable loading members and engagement members to convey and insert connection fittings into apertures within the main pipeline, allowing for precise and efficient installation of fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional excavation methods are used to install T-connectors and fittings into pipeline walls, then access to the pipeline is obtained, but the process becomes time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical excavation and manual installation methods with a robotic system that uses powered drilling apparatus and automated fitting insertion mechanisms. The robot navigates through the pipeline and performs all installation operations internally, eliminating the need for excavation and manual labor while dramatically increasing installation speed and reducing time loss.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual installation of connection fittings is performed through excavation, then fittings can be installed, but installation precision and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system replaces manual fitting installation with automated, precision-controlled insertion mechanisms. The robot positions fittings with high accuracy using controlled movement and alignment systems, ensuring proper seating and secure connection. This automated approach eliminates human error and variability, significantly improving both manufacturing precision and connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system performs self-positioning and self-alignment during fitting installation. The apparatus includes positioning mechanisms that automatically align the fitting with the pipeline aperture and ensure proper orientation, eliminating the need for external guidance or manual adjustment while maintaining high precision and stability.
3Ease of operation
If external power sources and umbilical cables are used to operate installation apparatus, then the apparatus can function, but the system becomes complex and operationally restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic apparatus is equipped with an onboard power source, such as a battery pack, that provides electrical power for all installation operations. This self-contained power system eliminates the need for external power sources and umbilical cables, granting the robot complete operational freedom to navigate and work anywhere within the pipeline without being constrained by cable length or external power availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the power source from the external environment and integrates it directly into the robotic apparatus. By incorporating the battery pack and power management systems within the robot itself, the design removes all dependencies on external infrastructure, simplifying the overall system and dramatically improving operational flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (130) for installing a connection fitting (300) into an aperture (400A) formed in a wall of a main pipeline (101) in the making of a service connection between a side connection, e.g. a consumer service connection, pipeline (C) and the main pipeline (101), wherein the apparatus (130) comprises: propulsion means (110) for propelling the apparatus (130) along the main pipeline (101) to a site at which the service connection is to be made; and installation means for installing, from within the main pipeline (101), at least a portion of the connection fitting (300N) into the aperture (400A). In embodiments the installation means may comprise: (i) a storage device (200), e.g. a linear storage rack (204), for storing at least one connection fitting (300) intended for installation; (ii) a conveyance device (220) for conveying a connection fitting (300) to be installed from the storage device (200) to an installation location, e.g. an installation pad or platform (242); and (iii) an insertion device (240), e.g. a scissor lift mechanism (250), for inserting the connection fitting (300) conveyed to the installation pad or platform (242) from the installation pad or platform (242) into the aperture (400A) formed in the wall of the main pipeline (101). Optionally one or more welds (320PW, 320SW) may be effected to complete the making of a fluid-tight service connection via the fitting (300) thus installed.