Segmented Lining Element for Pipe Repair

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for manufacturing lining elements for repairing connections between main and branch pipes are complex, particularly due to the requirement of creating a radial seam, which is challenging and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

The use of flexible, expandable lining parts connected by multiple seams or adhesive connections to form a lining element, allowing for a simpler and more efficient manufacturing process, including the option of using a radial seam for connecting branch pipe extensions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a radial seam is used to connect the branch pipe section and main pipe section of the lining element, then the lining element can be manufactured, but the manufacturing process becomes very complex and requires sewing along a circular path

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidseam creation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lining element is divided into multiple linear seam sections instead of requiring a single continuous circular seam. Each lining part is connected to its neighbor through separate linear seams, breaking down the complex radial seam into simpler, manageable segments that can be sewn more easily

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement of lining parts to a three-dimensional assembled structure. By arranging multiple rectangular or quadrilateral lining parts in a specific spatial configuration and connecting them through linear seams, the system achieves the functional equivalent of a radial seam while using simpler linear connection paths

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If multiple lining parts are connected by seams to form the lining element, then the lining element can accommodate larger pipe diameters, but the number of connections increases manufacturing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepipe diameter coverageVSAvoidnumber of connections
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lining element is segmented into multiple rectangular or quadrilateral lining parts that can be individually manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows the lining element to scale to larger pipe diameters by simply adding more parts rather than creating a single large complex piece

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized rectangular/quadrilateral lining parts serve multiple functions: they can be arranged in various configurations to fit different pipe diameters, each part contains both branch pipe and main pipe sections, and the linear connection method is universally applicable regardless of the total number of parts

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach results in a more cost-effective and impermeable lining element with reduced waste and improved manufacturing efficiency, capable of sealing larger pipe diameters effectively.

Implementation Method 1

The lining element is provided with an adhesive glue for durable bonding with the interior of the tube wall, wherein, in particular, a hardenable resin is used. Typically, the lining element comprises a layer of resin-absorbing material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption: Absorption (physical)

Implementation Method 2

After the resin has hardened, the lining element is in positive and frictional engagement with the inner tube wall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHardening: Phase Change

Data Source

PatentUS9689522B2Lining element, and method of manufacturing a lining element
Publication Date: 2017.06.27 TRELLEBORG PIPE SEALS DUISBURG
  • US9689522B2 patent drawing
  • US9689522B2 patent drawing
  • US9689522B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a lining element for repairing a connection area between a main pipe and a branch pipe, the lining element including a layer of resin-absorbing material, wherein at least six flexible, expandable lining parts are connected to each other by at least six connections to form the lining element. To manufacture such a lining element the at least six flexible, expandable lining parts are provided and connected to each other by at least six connections to form the lining element.