Retractable Mechanical Device for Sensor Installation in Tubular Structures
Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of sensor/transductor elements, such as strain gauges, on the inside walls of tubular structures is challenging due to the difficulty in accessing and fixing these elements within the confined space, and existing methods do not allow for the measurement of important mechanical parameters like deformations and displacements during external pressure load tests.
Innovation Solution
A retractable mechanical device with articulated arms and a power screw system is used to access and clean the inside walls of tubular structures, followed by the precise positioning and fixing of sensor/transductor elements using double-sided tape and elastomer blankets, allowing for accurate installation and measurement of mechanical parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor/transductor elements are fixed on the inside wall of tubular structures using conventional methods, then the installation can be performed, but the measurement precision of mechanical parameters (deformations and displacements) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A retractable mechanical device acts as an intermediary tool to access the interior of tubular structures. The device includes articulated arms with positioning mechanisms that can reach into confined spaces, allowing precise placement of sensor elements on the inside wall without requiring external access points or complex disassembly of the tubular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation device employs dynamic positioning capabilities through articulated arms and retractable mechanisms. This allows the device to adapt to different positions and orientations on the inner surface of tubular structures, enabling precise placement of sensors while maintaining ease of operation through mechanical flexibility rather than rigid fixed-position tools.
2Measurement precision
If conventional testing methods are used for determining external pressure load, then the test can be performed, but important mechanical parameters (deformations and displacements) cannot be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable mechanical device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can install sensor elements, position measurement devices, and access various locations within tubular structures. This multi-functional approach allows the same device to enable comprehensive mechanical parameter measurement (including deformations and displacements) during pressure load tests without requiring separate specialized tools for each measurement type.
3Reliability
If strain gauges are fixed using resin or adhesive methods, then the installation is simple, but the reliability of measurement under external pressure load is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable mechanical device serves as an intermediary that enables reliable fixation methods to be applied in hard-to-reach locations. The device positions sensors at precise locations and can apply mechanical fixation methods (such as clamps or mechanical anchors) that provide higher reliability than adhesive alone, while still maintaining ease of operation through the automated positioning capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a device and method for installing sensor/transductor elements on the inside wall of tubular structures, comprising a step of cleaning the inside of a duct and a step of installing the sensor/transductor. The mechanical device that is the subject matter of the present invention comprises four articulated arms (2), each one being coupled at the ends thereof to through-slits (23) in prismatic components (21) and the latter coupled to control elements (1) and (31) which by means of the threaded axial through-holes (24) thereof are screwed to the power screw axes (30) and (32) and by actuating same by rotating the extension tube (5) cause radial movement of the articulated arms (2), said retractable mechanical device also comprising centralizing elements (34) composed of at least 4 spring shafts (35).