Moldable PVC Tee Fitting for In-Place Pipeline Junction Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trenchless repair methods for sealing junctions between main pipelines and lateral service lines are time-consuming and expensive due to complex apparatuses, difficulty in accessing lateral service ends, and inconsistent sealing results from temperature and moisture variations, especially in inaccessible locations.
Innovation Solution
A PVC repair tee fitting with a tee-shaped inflatable bladder and heating gas system is used to mold and seal damaged tee junctions from within the main pipeline, utilizing a robot for precise placement and controlled inflation to match the internal diameter of the pipeline, with sealing gaskets for enhanced adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional trenchless repair methods are used to seal junctions between main pipelines and lateral service lines, then the repair can be performed without digging trenches, but the process is time-consuming and expensive due to complex apparatuses and difficulty in accessing lateral service ends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by inserting the sealing device through the main pipeline from the inside, rather than accessing the lateral service line from its end. The robot travels through the main pipeline and positions the sealing device at the junction from the main line side, eliminating the need to access difficult-to-reach lateral service ends and significantly reducing repair time
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex apparatuses are used for trenchless repair of junctions, then sealing can be achieved in inaccessible locations, but the process becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal repair system where a single robot platform can perform multiple functions: traveling through the pipeline, positioning the sealing device, providing heating gas, and controlling inflation. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate complex apparatuses for each repair step, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to repair inaccessible junctions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple repair functions into a single integrated device: the sealing device combines the inflatable bladder for sealing, the heating gas delivery system for material activation, and the robotic positioning system. This consolidation reduces the number of separate apparatuses needed and simplifies the overall repair process
3Reliability
If conventional sealing methods are used at junctions, then repair can be performed, but sealing results are inconsistent due to temperature and moisture variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent actively controls the temperature parameter by delivering heating gas to the sealing material, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for sealing regardless of ambient conditions. This active parameter control compensates for temperature and moisture variations in the environment, producing consistent sealing results across different repair conditions
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 method provides a quick, cost-effective, and reliable seal for damaged tee junctions without external access, reducing the risk of leaks and infiltration, and minimizing operational errors due to environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
a second end fitting fluidly connected to the second end coupling, the second end fitting including a heating gas input
Implementation Method 2
a tee-shaped inflatable bladder with open main line ends and a closed branch end
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An in-place PVC tee fitting repair device comprising: a tee-shaped inflatable bladder (316) with open main line ends(330, 332) and a closed branch end (338), wherein a first open main line end is secured to a first end coupling (322) and a second open main line end is secured to second end coupling (324); a first end fitting (372) connected to the first end coupling, the first end fitting serving as a hitch for the repair device; and a second end fitting (374) fluidly connected to the second end coupling, the second end fitting including a heating gas input.