Sealing Case Segmentation for Pipe Valve Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for inserting a valve body into a pipe without disrupting fluid flow are complex, require multiple flanges, and are difficult to miniaturize due to the need for separate cutter and valve cover attachment areas, leading to increased costs and structural complications.
Innovation Solution
A flow-undisrupted apparatus with a sealing case comprising separate circumferentially arranged cases, a branch pipe portion, and rubber packing for sealing, allowing the boring machine to be removed after forming an opening, and a gate valve body to be inserted without additional operation valves, simplifying the structure and reducing size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate case with both cutter and valve cover attachment areas is used, then the valve body can be inserted without disrupting flow, but the structure becomes complicated and size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing case is divided into multiple separate cases arranged circumferentially around the pipe. Each separate case can be independently attached and detached, allowing the cutter to be removed from one location while the valve cover is attached to another, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The flange is designed as a universal attachment interface that can accommodate both the cutter and the valve cover. This multi-functional flange eliminates the need for separate attachment mechanisms, reducing structural complexity while enabling both boring and valve insertion operations
2Ease of operation
If separate cases with cutter and valve cover attachment areas are provided, then the valve can be installed, but the apparatus size increases and miniaturization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate cases are merged into a single integrated sealing case assembly that surrounds the pipe. This consolidated structure reduces the overall apparatus volume compared to having completely separate cutter and valve cover attachment mechanisms, while still providing the necessary functional areas
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment areas for the cutter and valve cover are arranged in different spatial dimensions around the pipe circumference rather than requiring linear extension. This dimensional arrangement allows both functions to coexist within a compact volume, enabling miniaturization while maintaining full functionality
3Productivity
If water pressure is exerted across the entire inside of the case including valve cover, then the boring operation can proceed, but an operation valve is required to remove the cutter
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing case is segmented into multiple separate cases, allowing the cutter attachment area to be isolated from the valve cover area. This segmentation enables the cutter to be removed without requiring an operation valve, as each segment can be independently managed
Solution Approach 2:
The flange acts as an intermediary component that facilitates the attachment and removal of both the cutter and valve cover. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for complex operation valves by providing a straightforward attachment interface that can be easily opened and closed
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 apparatus enables simple and cost-effective operation by isolating water pressure during boring and valve insertion, eliminating the need for additional operation valves, reducing complexity and cost, and allowing for durable stainless steel bolts on a single flange, while maintaining flow disruption for fluid management.
Implementation Method 1
a rubber packing for sealing a gap between the sealing case and the existing pipe
Implementation Method 2
the first sealed area surrounding a portion of the sealing case where the branch hole is provided for sealing a gap (included in the gap aforementioned) between the sealing case and the existing pipe around the branch hole
Implementation Method 3
a second sealed area for temporarily shutting the opening bored by the cutter, the second sealed area being adjacent to the first sealed area, sealed against the first sealed area, and displaced from the first sealed area in the pipe axis direction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including: a sealing case 20 having a branch-shaped branch hole 23 formed in a first separate case 21 and extending in the radial direction C of an existing pipe 1; and a rubber packing 30 for sealing a gap between the sealing case 20 and the existing pipe 1, wherein: the first separate case 21 is provided with a flange 28 for allowing for attachment and removal of a boring machine 3; the sealing case 20 is capable of reciprocating in the pipe axis direction L; and the rubber packing 30 forms: a first sealed area S1 surrounding a portion of the sealing case 20 where the branch hole 23 is provided for shutting the branch hole 23; and a second sealed area S2 being adjacent to the first sealed area S1, sealed against the first sealed area S1, displaced from the first sealed area S1 in the pipe axis direction L, and sized so as to be able to shut the opening bored by a cutter 3a.