Tracked Pipe Fusion Machine With Rotating Boom Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable pipe fusion machines require significant labor and additional equipment for loading, unloading, and positioning, leading to machine damage and operator fatigue, especially when navigating difficult terrain.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled, self-contained pipe fusion machine with a track-mounted chassis, horizontal turntable, boom, indexer, and carriage system that allows for independent orientation and movement of pipe fusion tools, enabling efficient alignment and fusion of polyolefin pipes without external support equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional four-wheeled cart fusion machines are used, then the machine structure is simple, but significant labor and additional equipment are required for loading, unloading, and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion machine is equipped with self-propelled tracked undercarriage that enables it to move autonomously along the pipeline without requiring external cranes, forklifts, or tractors for positioning. The machine can load and unload pipe sections using its own hydraulic lifting and positioning systems, making the operation self-service and eliminating the need for additional support equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine transitions from a static four-wheeled cart design to a dynamic tracked undercarriage system that can adapt its movement and positioning capabilities. The tracked design provides dynamic adjustment of position along the pipeline, while hydraulic systems enable dynamic lifting and positioning of pipe sections during loading and unloading operations.
2Reliability
If traditional fusion machines are used, then the machine structure is simple, but machine damage occurs during loading and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The machine performs its own loading and unloading operations using integrated hydraulic lifting mechanisms and positioned jaws, eliminating the need for external equipment that could cause damage during transfer. The self-service capability ensures gentle, controlled handling of pipe sections throughout the loading and unloading process.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine uses its own hydraulic lifting system and positioning mechanisms as intermediaries between the pipe sections and the fusion process, providing controlled and damage-free handling. The intermediary systems include hydraulic cylinders for lifting, positioned jaws for secure gripping, and controlled movement mechanisms that prevent shock or impact damage.
3Ease of operation
If traditional fusion machines are used, then the machine structure is simple, but operator stress and fatigue increase
Solution Approach 1:
The machine autonomously performs physically demanding tasks including moving along the pipeline using its tracked undercarriage, lifting pipe sections with hydraulic systems, and positioning components for fusion. This self-service capability eliminates operator stress and fatigue associated with maneuvering the machine over difficult terrain and handling heavy pipe sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated hydraulic and electronic control systems. The tracked undercarriage replaces manual positioning, hydraulic lifting mechanisms replace manual pipe handling, and electronic controls replace manual coordination of fusion operations, significantly reducing operator physical exertion and fatigue.
4Speed
If self-propelled fusion machine is used, then mobility and stability are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine employs a dynamic tracked undercarriage system that provides superior mobility compared to static wheeled designs. The tracked system can navigate difficult terrain and adjust its position smoothly along the pipeline. The hydraulic lifting and positioning systems provide dynamic adjustment capabilities for loading, unloading, and fusion operations, enhancing overall machine adaptability and mobility.
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 machine reduces labor and equipment needs, enhances mobility and stability, and maintains consistent energy supply for pipe fusion, ensuring strong and reliable joints with reduced operator fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
heating at a first specified force in a melt pattern that penetrates into the pipe around both pipe ends
Implementation Method 2
When a polyolefin pipe is heated, the molecular structure is transformed from a crystalline state into an amorphous condition
Implementation Method 3
A self-propelled, self-contained pipe fusion machine with a track-mounted chassis
Implementation Method 4
a generator adapted to be actuated by the hydraulic generator motor in order to produce sufficient electric energy to maintain the heater at least at a temperature sufficient to fuse two opposing ends of polyolefin pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe fusion machine including a track mounted chassis supporting a horizontal turntable for unlimited, reversible rotation relative to the chassis. A boom pivotally attached at a rear end of, and extending forwardly of, the turntable enables manipulation of elevations and distances of the free end of the boom. The free end of the boom is adapted to permit pivotal mounting thereon of a pipe fusion tool such as an indexer configured to articulate and support a pipe-end facer and a pipe-end heater for respective independent orientation into and out of alignment with the ends of pipes to be fused. A carriage supports fixed and sliding jaws adapted to grip the ends of pipes to be fused for relative reciprocal movement during a pipe fusion process. Each of the jaws may include an upper half jaw and lower left and right quarter jaws.