Threaded Pipe Protector Assembly for Axial Tool Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protector assemblies for threaded pipe pins are difficult to install, especially when pipes are stacked, as they require reaching around the pin to access the tool, which is hindered by neighboring pipes.
Innovation Solution
A protector assembly comprising a cover, a retainer, and a fastener that allows for easy installation by accessing the assembly from the cover side, with the fastener exposed for tool engagement, enabling secure fastening without needing to reach around the pin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pin covers are used, then the pin is protected from impacts or corrosion, but the installation becomes difficult when pipes are stacked due to restricted access
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is inverted from the conventional configuration where the tool access point is at the open end, to instead be at the closed end. This allows the tool to access the fastener from the cover side, enabling installation without reaching around the pin. The fastener extends through the rim and is exposed on the cover side for tool engagement, directly solving the accessibility problem while maintaining pin protection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional pin covers with perpendicular tool access are used, then the cover can be secured to the pin, but neighboring pipes in a stack hinder tool access
Solution Approach 1:
The tool access direction is changed from a perpendicular approach (requiring lateral movement around the pin) to an axial approach (accessing from the cover side along the pipe axis). This dimensional change in tool access path allows operators to install covers on stacked pipes by simply accessing the cover end, without needing to reach around neighboring pipes.
3Ease of operation
If the fastener is exposed on the cover side for tool engagement, then installation is simplified, but the fastener structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system is segmented into distinct functional parts: the fastener body extending through the rim, the threaded engagement portion engaging the retainer, and the exposed head portion for tool engagement. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently, with the exposed head providing simple tool access while the threaded portion provides secure retention.
Data Source
AI summary
A protector assembly for covering a pin of a threaded pipe and a method for assembling such a protector assembly. The protector assembly comprises a cover, a retainer and at least one fastener for fastening the retainer to the cover. The cover includes a tubular portion defining a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end, the open end defining a rim for axial abutment with the retainer. The retainer has an abutment face for abutment with the rim. The rim comprises a bore extending therethrough. A fastener extends through the bore of the rim and engages the retainer, the fastener extending substantially in parallel with the longitudinal axis and exposed on the cover side of the bore of the rim for engagement by a tool or user to operate the fastener.