Self-Propelled Pipeline Tool Hydraulic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for moving tools within pipelines, especially in gas pipelines, face challenges such as intermittent movement, hydrate formation, corrosion, and difficulty in precise positioning due to the use of fluid pigging mediums, which can lead to blockages and damage to the pipeline system.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled pipeline tool with a control unit and dual hydraulic systems, including primary and backup systems, that allows for accurate movement within pipelines without the need for a propelling fluid, equipped with sensors and a coupling mechanism for connecting with other tools, enabling precise positioning and navigation through complex pipeline geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If fluid pigging medium is used to move tools in gas pipelines, then tools can be propelled along the pipeline, but intermittent stopping and starting occurs due to friction and pressure differential
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the fluid pigging medium from the system entirely, replacing it with a self-propelled mechanical device that uses internal hydraulic actuators and external reaction forces from the pipeline wall to move the tool, thereby eliminating the intermittent movement caused by fluid friction and pressure differentials
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is equipped with its own propulsion system including hydraulic pumps, actuators, and control mechanisms that enable it to move itself along the pipeline without requiring external fluid propulsion, achieving reliable continuous movement through self-generated thrust
2Ease of operation
If water is introduced as pigging medium, then tools can be moved to location, but hydrate formation and pipeline blockage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent completely eliminates water and other fluid pigging media from the system, replacing mechanical propulsion with a self-propelled device that generates movement through internal hydraulic systems and external reaction forces, thereby preventing hydrate formation entirely
Solution Approach 2:
The tool operates using inert hydraulic fluid contained within its closed hydraulic system, which does not interact with the gas pipeline environment to form hydrates, while the tool itself remains isolated from the pipeline gas through its sealed construction
3Ease of operation
If water is introduced into pipeline, then tool can be pigged to location, but corrosion and damage to pipeline integrity occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes water from the system by using a self-propelled tool with internal hydraulic propulsion, eliminating the source of corrosion while maintaining the ability to move the tool to the desired location
Solution Approach 2:
The tool employs sealed membranes and flexible barriers to contain its hydraulic fluid system, preventing any contact between the hydraulic fluid and the pipeline interior, thus protecting the pipeline from corrosion while enabling tool movement
4Productivity
If fluid pigging is used, then tools can be moved, but precise positioning is difficult and often arbitrary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates positioning sensors, encoders, and control systems that provide real-time feedback on the tool's location and movement, enabling precise positioning at the desired location through closed-loop control rather than arbitrary placement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the passive fluid-driven mechanical system with an active self-propelled system equipped with sensors and control mechanisms that can precisely control movement and positioning through electronic feedback and actuation
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 tool achieves precise and reliable movement of pipeline tools to desired locations within pipelines, eliminating the need for fluid-based propulsion and reducing the risk of hydrate formation and corrosion, while maintaining pipeline integrity and allowing for autonomous operation.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic system including a hydraulic pump, a plurality of hydraulic actuators and a source of hydraulic pressure
Implementation Method 2
which is self-propelled and which has means for gripping the internal surface of the pipeline
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A self propelled autonomous pipeline tool (100) for use in straight pipe comprising a first part and a second part, a hydraulic system (A, B) comprising at least one hydraulic piston (140, 150, 160) and means for operating the piston, and a control unit. The hydraulic system is operable to returnably separate the first and second part of the device from each other. The hydraulic system further comprises a plurality of pipeline engaging means (142) positioned along an exterior surface of the device which are operable by the hydraulic system to be engagable with the interior surface of the pipeline. The control unit is in communication with the hydraulic system to control the movement of the pipeline engaging means and the first and second parts such that the pipeline tool is moveable within a straight pipeline. The pipeline tool further comprises a communications module which enables the pipeline tool to utilize ELF communications.