Top-Loading Pipe Fusion Jaws for Large-Diameter Pipe Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fusion machines require heavy equipment and multiple operators for loading and unloading large diameter pipes, complicating the fusion process.
Innovation Solution
A pipe fusion machine with upper and lower complemental jaws, actuators, and interchangeable jaws sets that allow for easy handling of pipes and pipelines of varying diameters, reducing the need for heavy equipment and simplifying the handling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If heavy equipment and multiple operators are used for loading and unloading large diameter pipes, then the pipe fusion process can be completed, but the equipment complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of pipe gripping, positioning, and fusion into a single integrated machine. The upper and lower complemental jaws work together with actuators to perform multiple operations (gripping, opening, closing, manipulating) that previously required separate heavy equipment and multiple operators, thereby reducing equipment complexity while maintaining productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The machine is designed with interchangeable jaw sets that can accommodate pipes of various diameters. The same machine structure performs multiple functions: gripping pipes during transport, positioning them for fusion, and maintaining grip during the fusion process. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for different specialized equipment for different pipe sizes, reducing overall equipment complexity
2Ease of operation
If manual loading of pipe sticks is performed, then the operation is simple, but the handling efficiency decreases for large diameter pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The machine's actuators automatically perform the loading and positioning of pipe sticks without requiring manual intervention for each operation. The complemental jaws self-adjust to grip the pipe, and the machine autonomously manipulates the pipe through the fusion process, maintaining ease of operation through automated control while significantly improving handling efficiency for large diameter pipes
3Device complexity
If fixed jaw configuration is used, then the machine structure is simple, but the adaptability to different pipe diameters is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The machine employs actuators that can dynamically adjust the position and configuration of the complemental jaws. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the same machine structure to adapt to different pipe diameters by modifying jaw positions and grip forces, providing versatility without requiring completely different machine structures for each pipe size
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw system is segmented into interchangeable sets, each designed for specific pipe diameter ranges. These modular jaw sets can be replaced as needed, allowing the machine to handle various pipe sizes while maintaining a relatively simple base structure. The segmentation principle enables adaptability through component replacement rather than redesigning the entire machine structure
Data Source
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AI summary
A fusion machine (10) which can be top-loaded on very large polyolefin pipes and pipelines has jaws which consist of an upper half jaw (63/163) and lower left and right (65/165) complemental jaws which pivot on the half jaw. Left and right actuators (110) connected between the complemental jaws and the half jaw (61) operate in one direction to cause the complemental jaws to rotate to an opened condition in which the upper half jaw (61) can be lowered onto and lifted from the pipes to be fused and in the other direction to cause the complemental jaws to rotate to a closed condition in which the pipes to be fused are gripped so substantially around their circumferences as to resist their deformation from round during manipulation by the machine (10). The top-loading machine minimizes the need for heavy equipment to load and unload pipe to and from the fusion machine (10).