Self-Propelled Pipe Lining System With Modular Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Spray-In-Place-Pipe (SIPP) devices for pipe rehabilitation suffer from inconsistencies in liner thickness due to the 'stick-slip' phenomenon and capstan effect, leading to structural and hydraulic integrity issues, as they rely on static, non-self-propelled systems with umbilical members that sag and increase friction, resulting in unpredictable liner application.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled pipe lining system with multiple propulsion devices along the umbilical member, allowing the sprayer apparatus to move consistently and independently, reducing frictional forces and ensuring consistent liner thickness by using motorized drive units and extension assemblies for optimal traction, and enabling longer umbilical member lengths with modular propulsion units that can be quickly attached and detached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a static, non-self-propelled SIPP system with an umbilical member is used, then the system is simpler to operate, but the liner thickness becomes inconsistent due to the stick-slip phenomenon and capstan effect
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a self-propelled sprayer apparatus that operates independently from the umbilical member. The sprayer has its own propulsion system with multiple drive wheels, separating the spraying function from the umbilical retraction function, thereby eliminating the stick-slip phenomenon caused by umbilical tension variations
Solution Approach 2:
The sprayer apparatus is self-propelled through the pipe using its own motorized propulsion system rather than being pulled by the umbilical member. This self-service capability ensures consistent forward motion and consistent liner application thickness independent of umbilical member dynamics
2Length of moving object
If the umbilical member is extended to reach longer pipes, then the system can rehabilitate longer pipelines, but the drag and friction on the umbilical member increase due to sag and capstan effect
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion function is segmented from the umbilical member and placed on the sprayer apparatus itself. Multiple drive wheels are distributed along the sprayer to provide continuous propulsion, eliminating the need for the umbilical member to provide tensile force over long distances
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion function is extracted from the umbilical member-retraction system and placed on the sprayer apparatus. This extraction allows the umbilical member to be purely a supply line while the sprayer handles its own movement, enabling longer umbilical members without increased friction penalties
3Ease of operation
If the sprayer apparatus is pulled through the pipe by an accumulator reel, then the system is easier to control, but the liner thickness becomes unpredictable due to variations in retraction force
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions are segmented: the accumulator reel only controls umbilical deployment/retraction while the sprayer's own propulsion system controls forward motion and liner application. This separation ensures that retraction force variations do not affect spraying consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The sprayer apparatus propels itself through the pipe using its own motorized drive system, making it independent of the accumulator reel's retraction force. This self-service propulsion ensures predictable and consistent liner thickness application regardless of umbilical tension variations
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 system achieves consistent liner thickness and reduced frictional forces, enhancing the structural integrity and hydraulic performance of the pipe lining by allowing the sprayer apparatus to maintain a controlled and consistent speed throughout the pipe, minimizing the need for external retraction force and reducing the likelihood of 'ringing' effects.
Implementation Method 1
The propulsion devices comprise motorized drive units to propel the propulsion devices within the pipe, and more preferably, extension assemblies to radially extend and retract the drive units for optimum traction on the inner wall of the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A self-propelled pipe lining system adapted to create an internal liner member on a pipe or other tubular structure, the system being the combination of a sprayer apparatus, an umbilical member connected to the sprayer apparatus and supplying the lining material, electrical power and communication, a plurality of propulsion devices mounted onto the umbilical member, and an accumulator reel for retaining the umbilical member. The spraying apparatus and propulsion devices are independently powered and controlled such that each may be accelerated or decelerated as required to maintain the sprayer apparatus at a constant speed during the application process. The propulsion devices are detachable from the umbilical member.