Threaded Pipe Sensor Insertion With Sealed Punch Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing electronic devices in pipes where fluids circulate, such as natural gas, are cumbersome, require cutting off gas flow, use bulky systems that need external power, and are costly, limiting their installation in inaccessible locations and reducing the number of sensors that can be deployed in meshed gas distribution networks.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an electronic device with a threaded body and punch that allows simultaneous insertion and drilling into the pipe while maintaining a seal, using a sleeve with a conduit opening onto the pipe wall, and an on-board energy source for autonomous operation, enabling easy installation and wireless communication without the need for wired connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional electronic systems are used for pipe installation, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device size becomes too large for inaccessible locations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional components: a body for structural support, a punch for hole formation, an electronic module for measurements, and a threaded portion for installation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling accurate measurements in a compact form factor suitable for inaccessible pipe locations.
2Measurement precision
If traditional electronic systems are installed in pipes, then measurement capability is improved, but installation complexity increases due to gas flow interruption requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded portion is pre-formed on the device body, allowing it to be screwed directly into the pipe without requiring separate installation steps. The punch is integrated into the body, enabling hole formation and device insertion to occur simultaneously. These preliminary design actions eliminate the need for gas flow interruption and complex multi-step installation procedures.
3Measurement precision
If traditional electronic systems are deployed, then measurement coverage is improved, but installation cost increases due to external power supply requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be self-contained, with the electronic module powered directly by the pipe's operational environment or integrated power sources within the device itself. This eliminates the need for external power supplies and complex wiring infrastructure, significantly reducing installation costs while maintaining measurement coverage across multiple pipe locations.
4Loss of information
If more sensors are installed in the network, then flow understanding is improved, but installation accessibility becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from requiring external access points to being insertable through the pipe wall itself via the integrated punch mechanism. This dimensional change in installation approach allows sensors to be placed in previously inaccessible locations, enabling comprehensive flow monitoring across the entire network without being constrained by external accessibility.
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
Enables easy and efficient installation of electronic devices in pipes with minimal disruption to fluid flow, reducing installation costs and increasing the number of sensors that can be deployed, especially in meshed gas distribution networks.
Implementation Method 1
a body (2) having a threaded portion (3) intended to cooperate with a threaded portion of the sleeve conduit to move the electronic device by screwing to its final position
Implementation Method 2
a punch (4) configured to form a through hole in the conduit during said screwing and to allow the insertion of the electronic device into the conduit to its final position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to an electronic device intended for being inserted into a pipe (50) until an end position, the device also being configured to be arranged in a sleeve (30) assembled on the pipe and through a duct (31) of the sleeve opening onto a wall of the pipe, comprising: a body (2) provided with a threaded portion (3) for moving the electronic device by screwing until the end position thereof; a hollow punch (4); an electronic module (6); at least one electrical connection (8) connected to the electronic module and passing through said body, the body and said at least one electrical connection forming a plug of the sleeve duct.