Pipeline Joint Coating Along an Annular Path for Faster Bonding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for applying protective joints to annular junctions of pipelines during hydrocarbon transportation are time-consuming, especially in limited spaces like pipeline-laying ships, due to the sequential nature of heating and polymer application processes, which slows down pipeline advancement and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a selectively clampable guide system, heating unit, spray unit, and extrusion die configured to perform heating, polymer application, and protective foil application along an annular path, allowing for simultaneous and quick execution of these operations with minimized revolutions and energy usage, controlled by a positioning system to optimize the sequence and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heating and polymer application operations are performed sequentially in a single station, then the operations can be completed with proper heating facilitation, but the pipeline advancement speed is reduced and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the protective joint application process into separate operational stations: a heating station and a polymer application station. This segmentation allows each station to perform its specific function independently, enabling the pipeline to be heated and coated in sequential passes rather than requiring all operations to be completed in a single stationary setup, thereby increasing overall productivity while maintaining proper heating facilitation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable pipeline system where the pipeline can rotate and be advanced through different stations. This dynamic approach allows the pipeline to be heated in one position and then rotated to a different position for polymer application, transforming the static single-station process into a dynamic multi-position process that improves advancement speed without compromising heating quality.
2Reliability
If multiple operations are performed in a single station to benefit from heating, then adhesion is improved, but the complexity of the device increases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of consolidating all operations in one complex station, the patent segments the process into separate heating and application stations. The heating station is dedicated solely to heating the annular junction portion, while the application station is dedicated to applying polymer materials. This segmentation reduces the complexity of each individual station while maintaining proper adhesion through sequential processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of pipeline rotation and movement through space, allowing operations to be performed at different positions along the pipeline's path. By moving the pipeline through different stations rather than concentrating all operations in one location, the system reduces device complexity while ensuring proper adhesion through controlled sequential processing.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the pipeline is laid on the bed of a water body and cannot rotate, then positioning is stabilized, but the space available for operations is limited and time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable carriage system that can travel along the pipeline even when the pipeline itself cannot rotate. The carriage carries the heating and application equipment and can be positioned at different locations along the pipeline, enabling operations to be performed sequentially at different positions without requiring the pipeline to rotate, thus maintaining positioning stability while reducing operation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the equipment into a movable carriage that can be positioned at different locations along the pipeline. This allows the heating and polymer application operations to be performed at separate positions along the pipeline's length, accommodating the constraint of the pipeline being laid on the bed while still enabling efficient sequential operations without excessive time loss.
4Reliability
If heating operations are performed for extended periods to ensure proper temperature, then adhesion is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies polymer materials immediately after heating while the surface is still hot, eliminating the need for extended heating periods. The quick succession of heating followed by immediate polymer application ensures proper adhesion is achieved through the residual heat rather than prolonged heating, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining bonding quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a continuous process where polymer materials are applied immediately after heating without interruption or cooling period. This continuous action ensures that the heat is directly utilized for polymer bonding without energy loss, achieving proper adhesion with minimal energy consumption by eliminating idle heating time.
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
Significantly reduces the time required for protective joint application, enhances energy efficiency, and ensures proper bonding of polymer materials by performing heating and application in rapid succession, thus accelerating pipeline advancement and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
heat the annular junction portion
Implementation Method 2
apply at least one polymer material to the annular junction portion
Implementation Method 3
The adhesive polymer material and the polymer material for making the 'Top Coat' are selected from compatible materials for making a union by fusion
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for making a protective joint has a guide system, which is selectively clampable about a pipeline on opposite sides with respect to the annular junction portion and configured for defining an annular path about the annular junction portion; at least one heating unit moveable along the annular path and configured for heating the annular junction portion and moveable along the annular path; at least one spray unit moveable along the annular path and configured for applying at least one polymer material to the annular junction portion; and an extrusion die moveable along the annular path and configured for applying a protective foil about the annular junction portion.