Remote Sensor Mounting Through Insulated Pipeline Cladding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing sensors on insulated pipelines are inefficient and pose safety risks due to the need for manual operations, scaffolding, and the use of rope access technology, which are time-consuming and hazardous for personnel.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for securing measuring devices to an object using a handheld or remotely controlled system with a penetrating element, retaining means, and a manipulator mechanism, allowing for autonomous installation without physical proximity to the object, and featuring a gripping device and cooling system to manage temperature and friction during penetration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operations are used to install sensors on insulated pipelines, then the installation can be performed with simple equipment, but the operation is time-consuming and poses safety risks to personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated drilling and sensor installation system. The apparatus includes a drilling unit with a drill bit that can automatically penetrate the protective sheet and insulation material, and a sensor placement mechanism that positions sensors without manual intervention. This substitution eliminates the need for personnel to work at heights or in hazardous environments while significantly improving installation speed and consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated apparatus that acts as a mediator between the sensor installation process and the pipeline. This apparatus includes a support structure that can be positioned near the pipeline, a drilling unit with controlled depth adjustment, and a sensor placement mechanism. The intermediary system handles all hazardous and time-consuming operations, allowing personnel to work from safe distances while maintaining precise control over the installation process.
2Reliability
If scaffolding is installed to provide access to elevated pipelines, then personnel safety is improved, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the safety function from the traditional scaffolding system and integrates it directly into the automated apparatus. The support structure includes adjustable legs and stabilization mechanisms that provide inherent safety without requiring external scaffolding. This extraction eliminates the need for separate scaffolding installation and removal operations, reducing overall project complexity and time while maintaining personnel safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic, adjustable support structures that can adapt to different pipeline heights and configurations. The apparatus includes telescopic legs, adjustable positioning mechanisms, and movable components that can be configured for each specific installation location. This dynamic design eliminates the need for fixed, complex scaffolding systems while maintaining safety and accessibility for elevated pipeline installations.
3Device complexity
If rope access technology is used for installing sensors on elevated pipelines, then scaffolding is not required, but the operation requires certified climbers and remains hazardous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rope access technology with an automated drilling and sensor installation system mounted on a stable support structure. The apparatus includes a controlled drilling unit with depth regulation, a sensor placement mechanism, and stabilization systems that eliminate the need for personnel to climb or work suspended from ropes. This substitution removes the requirement for certified climbers while completely eliminating the hazards associated with rope access operations.
4Manufacturing precision
If the penetrating element is driven through the protective sheet and insulation material, then the sensor can be positioned correctly, but temperature increase due to friction may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary cooling actions before and during the penetration process. The system includes cooling devices that are activated before drilling begins and continue operation during the penetration process. This preliminary and continuous cooling prevents temperature buildup from friction, ensuring that the sensor positioning process does not generate excessive heat that could damage the insulation material or affect sensor calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic cooling cycles during the penetration process. The cooling system operates in alternating cycles with the drilling operation, providing cooling intervals that prevent cumulative heat buildup. This periodic action maintains effective sensor positioning while controlling temperature increases within safe limits, particularly important in Ex Zone environments where temperature control is critical.
5Measurement precision
If multiple measuring devices are installed manually, then each sensor can be individually positioned, but the installation process becomes increasingly time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal automated apparatus that can install multiple different types of sensors through a single integrated system. The apparatus includes a programmable drilling unit, a versatile sensor placement mechanism, and centralized control that can handle various sensor types and positioning requirements. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain precise individual sensor positioning while efficiently installing multiple devices without requiring separate manual operations for each sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous automated operation for sensor installation. The system includes automated sensor feeding mechanisms, continuous drilling and placement operations, and programmable sequencing that eliminates idle time between sensor installations. This continuity of useful action maintains the precision of individual sensor positioning while dramatically increasing installation speed by removing all manual repositioning and setup time between devices.
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 efficient and safe installation of sensors on insulated pipelines without scaffolding, reducing safety risks and operational time, while complying with Ex Zone temperature requirements and allowing for remote control and monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the assembling device is configured for rotating the penetrating element at a rotation speed less than 50 revolutions per second, and the apparatus is further provided with a cooling device directing a fluid flow towards the penetrating element
Implementation Method 2
the apparatus is further provided with a cooling device directing a fluid flow towards the penetrating element to reduce a temperature increase due to a friction
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
AI summary
An apparatus (1) and a method for securing at least one measuring device (M) to an object (P), the measuring device (M) being configured for monitoring the object (P) and is provided with a penetrating element (MC) for perforating a sheet (S) forming part of the object (P), the apparatus (1) comprises: - a body comprising: - a housing (30) for holding the measuring device (M); and - an assembling device (40) for moving the measuring device (M) with respect to the housing (30), the assembling device (40) comprising an engagement means (42) movable between a retracted, passive position, and an extended, active position for engaging the measuring device (M) to urge the penetrating element (MC) of the measuring device (M) through the sheet (S) of the object (P) to secure the measuring device (M) to the object (P); and - a control device (5) for operating the assembling device.