Tubing Eversion Apparatus with Integrated Lubrication and Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tubing everting apparatus lack provisions for convenient and automated lubrication of flexible tube liners during the eversion process, fail to regulate compressed air or pressurized water loss, and are not easily transportable, making them inefficient and cumbersome for use in various tubular repair and rehabilitation applications.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a pressure chamber for pressurizing a flexible tube liner, a lubricator for reducing friction, a non-deflation valve to control fluid flow, and a cart for easy transportation, enabling efficient eversion and transportation of the tubing everting apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional tubing everting apparatus are used without lubrication provisions, then the apparatus structure remains simple, but the frictional force on the flexible tube liner becomes significant and the eversion process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A lubricator is introduced as an intermediary component between the pressure chamber and the flexible tube liner. The lubricator receives pressurized fluid from the pressure chamber and directs it onto the liner to reduce friction during eversion, enabling easier operation without requiring complex external lubrication systems
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure chamber serves multiple functions: it provides pressurized fluid for eversion, generates pressurized fluid for lubrication through the lubricator, and maintains control over the eversion process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems while improving operational ease
2Loss of energy
If conventional tubing everting apparatus lack fluid flow regulation, then the apparatus structure remains simple, but compressed air and pressurized water are lost during the eversion process
Solution Approach 1:
A flow regulation valve is implemented to provide feedback control of the pressurized fluid flow. The valve monitors and adjusts the flow rate of compressed air and pressurized water to the pressure chamber and lubricator, preventing excessive loss while maintaining effective eversion and lubrication
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to regulate its own fluid flow through integrated flow control mechanisms within the pressure chamber and lubricator assembly. The apparatus automatically adjusts fluid distribution to maintain pressure and prevent waste without requiring external intervention or complex additional systems
3Ease of operation
If conventional tubing everting apparatus are designed for easy transport, then the apparatus can be quickly moved between job sites, but the apparatus may require significant disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing everting apparatus is divided into modular segments including the pressure chamber, lubricator, flow regulation valve, and cart. These segments can be easily connected and disconnected without complex disassembly procedures, allowing quick transport while minimizing setup time at each job site
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates dynamic mounting features and flexible connections that allow the equipment to be rapidly deployed and reconfigured. The cart-based mobile platform provides stable transport while enabling quick attachment to different liner configurations without time-consuming reassembly
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 solution provides reduced friction during eversion, controlled fluid flow, and improved transportability, enhancing the efficiency and convenience of tubing everting processes, thereby improving tubular repair and rehabilitation operations.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure chamber that defines an internal volume and is configured to be pressurized, by a pressurizing fluid stream, to provide a motive force for eversion of the flexible tube liner
Implementation Method 2
a lubricator that is configured to apply a lubricant to the flexible tube liner... to decrease a frictional force on the flexible tube liner during eversion
Data Source
AI summary
Tubing everting apparatus, assemblies, and methods are disclosed herein. The tubing everting apparatus include a pressure chamber that defines an internal volume, a liner inlet port that is configured to receive a flexible tube liner into the internal volume, an inlet sealing structure that is configured to resist fluid flow therepast from the pressure chamber, and a liner outlet port that is configured to permit the flexible tube liner to extend from the internal volume. In some embodiments, the apparatus include a lubricator that is configured to apply a lubricant to the flexible tube liner. In some embodiments, the apparatus include a non-deflation valve that is configured to selectively transition between open and closed states. The assemblies include the apparatus and a cart that includes a lubricant reservoir. The methods include methods of operating the apparatus.