Remote Decoking Tool Flow Diversion Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current coke-cutting systems in coke drums are inefficient and hazardous due to the need to manually switch between boring and cutting modes, which can lead to accidents and compromised efficiency, as the mode changes occur within the drum and are difficult to monitor.

Innovation Solution

A system with a drill stem and cutting tool that allows remote switching between boring and cutting modes using a flow diversion apparatus, which directs high-pressure fluid flow through either the boring or cutting nozzles without requiring the drill stem to be raised, utilizing a shifting apparatus and rotational ratcheting mechanism for precise control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual switching between boring and cutting modes is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but operator safety deteriorates due to exposure to high-pressure water jets

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator safetyVSAvoidmode switching convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical switching with an automated flow diversion apparatus controlled by a operator station located outside the coke drum. The system uses automated valve actuation and flow control mechanisms to switch between boring and cutting modes, eliminating the need for operators to physically handle high-pressure water jet controls within the hazardous zone.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary control system consisting of a flow diversion apparatus and remote operator station that mediates between the operator and the high-pressure water jet system. This intermediary allows mode switching to be performed remotely through automated control mechanisms, protecting the operator from direct exposure to hazardous conditions while maintaining operational control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If mode switching occurs within the drum, then operational flexibility is maintained, but operational efficiency deteriorates due to monitoring difficulties

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidmode detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism where the flow diversion apparatus provides real-time status information about the current operating mode (boring or cutting) to the operator station. This feedback system allows operators to monitor mode changes remotely and accurately determine whether the drill stem is in cutting or boring mode without needing to physically inspect conditions inside the drum.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent moves the mode switching operation from the spatial dimension (within the drum) to a different operational dimension (remote control through automated systems). By transitioning from physical presence inside the drum to remote automated control, the system improves monitoring capability and operational efficiency while maintaining mode switching functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Loss of time

If drill stem is raised for mode switching, then mechanical adjustment is possible, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching timeVSAvoidmechanical adjustment capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs preliminary action by pre-positioning the flow diversion apparatus and automated control mechanisms before operation begins. The system is pre-configured with bored holes and nozzle arrangements that can be activated in different sequences, allowing mode switching to occur through automated flow control rather than requiring time-consuming mechanical repositioning of the drill stem.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical approach of raising and repositioning the drill stem with an automated hydraulic control system. The flow diversion apparatus uses automated valve actuation and fluid flow control to switch between modes, eliminating the time-consuming mechanical operations while maintaining the ability to adjust operational parameters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables safe, efficient, and convenient coke removal by allowing operators to remotely switch between modes without exposing themselves to high-pressure water jets, reducing the risk of accidents and improving operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

directs high-pressure fluid flow through either the boring or cutting nozzles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHigh-pressure fluid flow: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

rotational ratcheting mechanism for precise control

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRatcheting mechanism: Ratchet

Data Source

PatentUS8679298B2Remotely controlled decoking tool used in coke cutting operations

Publication Date: 2014.03.25 DELTAVALVE LLC

AI summary

The present a system structured to allows an operator to remotely switch between cutting and boring while removing solid carbonaceous residue from large cylindrical vessels called coke drums utilizing—a cutting head for ejecting high pressure fluids into the coke bed; a flow diversion apparatus; and a shifting apparatus.