Smartplug Wheel Centralizer with Retractable Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline plug systems face issues with increased energy consumption due to constant friction from centralizing means and difficulty in navigating through pipelines with smaller diameters or obstructions, as centralizing wheels are always in contact with the wall.
Innovation Solution
A plug system with extendable and retractable centralizing elements around its circumference, operated by a fluid cylinder, which retracts during movement and extends only at the desired location to minimize friction and navigate through constricted areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If centralizing means are always in contact with the pipeline wall, then the plug is centralized throughout movement, but energy consumption increases due to constant friction
Solution Approach 1:
The centralizing means are designed to dynamically change their contact state with the pipeline wall - extended and in contact when centralization is needed at the set location, and retracted and out of contact during movement through the pipeline. This dynamic adjustment reduces friction and energy consumption while maintaining centralization stability when required.
2Stability of the object's composition
If centralizing wheels are always in contact with the pipeline wall, then the plug remains centralized, but navigation through smaller diameter sections becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The centralizing means can dynamically extend to provide centralization stability when needed and retract to reduce the plug's effective diameter for navigating constricted sections. This adaptability allows the plug to successfully traverse pipelines with varying diameters and obstructions.
3Manufacturing precision
If centralizing means are extended during movement, then the plug is centralized throughout the pipeline, but friction increases energy requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The centralizing means operate periodically rather than continuously - extended and engaged only during the brief period when the plug needs to be centralized at the set location, and retracted during the majority of the movement phase. This periodic action minimizes energy loss while achieving the required centralization precision when needed.
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
Reduces energy consumption by minimizing friction during movement and facilitates navigation through pipelines with smaller diameters by centralizing the plug only when necessary, thereby reducing the risk of obstruction.
Implementation Method 1
a elastic element (27) between the body (25) and the support element (26), pressing the support element outwards
Implementation Method 2
a movement means, in one embodiment a fluid operated cylinder, for moving the centralizing means between a retracted and an extended position
Data Source
AI summary
The invention regards a device for movement within a pipeline which device comprises at least one centralizing means (20) comprising at least two centralizing elements (21) arranged around the circumference of a body (8) of the device. The centralizing elements (21) are arranged to move from a retracted position to an extended position in contact with an inner wall (2) of a pipeline (1) to centralize the device.