WO2020005266A1

WO2020005266A1 - Repairing tubes

Info

Publication number: WO2020005266A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/040214
Authority: WO
Inventors: Cesar LUIS COELHO MORAIS DE SERPA ROSA; Marc CLOTET MARTI; Xavier GOMEZ TRAVESSET
Original assignee: Hewlett Packard Development Co LP
Current assignee: Hewlett Packard Development Co LP
Priority date: 2018-06-29
Filing date: 2018-06-29
Publication date: 2020-01-02
Anticipated expiration: 2020-12-29

Abstract

An example of a method for repairing a tube is disclosed. The method comprises freezing a part of a tube that comprises liquid therein at a location, wherein the freezing solidifies at least part of the liquid. The method also comprises splitting the tube at the location thereby obtaining two split sections of the tube. The method further comprises connecting the two split sections of the tube.

Description

REPAIRING TUBES

BACKGROUND

[0001] Commercially available systems may comprise therein operations for transferring a fluid from one point to another through tubes. Sometimes, these tubes may be replaced for a plurality of reasons, for example upon the occurrence of an issue. Examples of these issues may be to replace and/or repair system pumps, electro valves, pressure sensors, fluid tanks, clogged tubes, tube drip, and the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] The present application may be more fully appreciated in connection with the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout and in which:

[0003] Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus to repair tubes.

[0004] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus to repair a tube.

[0005] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an apparatus to repair a tube.

[0006] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an apparatus to repair a tube.

[0007] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus to repair tubes.

[0008] Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system to repair tubes.

[0009] Fig. 7 is a flowchart of an example method for repairing tubes.

[0010] Fig. 8 is a flowchart of another example method for repairing tubes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] The following description is directed to various examples of the disclosure. In the foregoing description, numerous details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the examples disclosed herein. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the examples may be practiced without these details. While a limited number of examples have been disclosed, those skilled in the art will appreciate numerous modifications and variations therefrom. It is intended that the appended claims cover such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the examples. Throughout the present disclosure, the terms "a" and "an" are intended to denote at least one of a particular element in addition, as used herein, the term "includes" means includes but not limited to, the term "including" means including but not limited to. The term "based on" means based at least in part on.

[0012] As mentioned above, commercially available systems may comprise therein operations for transferring a fluid from one point to another through tubes. In the present disclosure, a fluid should be interpreted as both, liquid and gas compositions. Sometimes, these tubes may be replaced for a plurality of reasons, for example upon the occurrence of an issue. These systems may range from heavy manufacturing machines to printers.

[0013] In the example of a printing system, but also being applicable to other systems, a plurality of tubes comprising a printing composition may be placed therein. Sometimes, sections of said tubes may be repaired due to a plurality of causes. Some of these causes may be to replace and/or repair system pumps, electro valves, pressure sensors, fluid tanks, clogged tubes, tube drip, and the like. The repair of the tubes may comprise cutting a section of a tube and either (i) connecting the two edges of the remaining tube together after the cutting, or (ii) connecting an intermediate tube between the two edges of the remaining tube after the cutting.

[0014] The operation of cutting a tube in which there is a fluid therethrough may be challenging. To perform the above process, the user may cut a section of a tube to be repaired. This may lead to dripping of the fluid located inside the tube, therefore polluting the working area outside the tube with said fluid and wasting the corresponding amount of fluid. This may be even worse, when the fluid is a printing fluid comprising pigments that may dye the objects and/or surfaces they reach. Alternatively, some users may drain out the fluid within the tube prior cutting the section of the tube, however this is a very tedious operation that may lead to long downtime of the system (e.g., printing system).

[0015] In the present disclosure reference has been made to a printing system. The term "printing system” should be understood in its broad definition, therefore being any image recording system that uses a printing composition. In an example, the printing system may be a two-dimensional (2D) desk printer. In another example, the printing system may be a 2D large format printer. In another example, the printing system may be a printing press, also known as offset printer. In yet another example, the printing system may he a three-dimensional (3D) printer and/or an additive manufacturing system.

[0016] The term "printing composition" should be interpreted as any composition that may comprise a colorant with a liquid carrier (e.g., cartridges and/or toner ink commercially available from HP Inc.). In another example, the composition may comprise ink particles and an imaging oil liquid carrier (e.g., liquid toner ink commercially known as HP Electroink from HP Inc.). In another example, the composition is an additive manufacturing fusing agent which may be an ink-type formulation comprising carbon black, such as, for example, the fusing agent formulation commercially known as V1Q60Q "HP fusing agent" available from HP Inc. in an additional example such a fusing agent may additionally comprise an infra-red light absorber. In another additional example such a fusing agent may additionally comprise a near infra-red light absorber. In another additional example, such a fusing agent may additionally comprise a visible light absorber in yet another additional example such fusing agent may additionally comprise a UV light absorber. Examples of inks comprising visible light enhancers are dye-based colored ink and pigment-based colored ink (e.g., inks commercially known as CE039A and CE042A available from HP Inc.). In yet another example, the composition may be a suitable additive manufacturing detailing agent (e.g., a formulation commercially known as V1Q61A "HP detailing agent" available from HP Inc.). A plurality of examples of the printing composition have been disclosed, however other similar compositions may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] An example of the present disclosure provides an apparatus to repair a flexible or semi rigid tube that contains liquid. The apparatus comprises: (i) a base to receive a part of a tube; and (ii) a lid to connect to the base so that the apparatus encloses the part of the tube. The apparatus is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the tube therein.

[0018] Another example of the present disclosure provides a system comprising (i) a first repairing apparatus to be installed in a first location from a tube, and (ii) a second repairing apparatus to be installed in a second location from the tube. The first repairing apparatus comprises a first volume with the first location of the tube therein. The second repairing apparatus comprises a second volume with the second location of the tube therein. The first location from the second location from the tube are to be frozen and cut.

[0019] Another example of the present disclosure provides a method for repairing a tube comprising a plurality of operations to be performed. The method comprises (i) freezing a part of the tube that comprises liquid therein at a location, wherein the freezing solidifies at least part of the liquid; (ii) splitting the tube at the location thereby obtaining two split sections of the tube; and (iii) connecting the two split sections of the tube.

[0020] Referring now to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus 100 to repair tubes. The apparatus 100 comprises a base 110 and a lid 120.

[0021] The base 110 is to receive a part of a tube 130. The tube 130 may be a flexible or semi rigid tube. In an example, the tube 130 may be made from Nylon (e.g., Nylon 12), Polyethylene (PE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyurethane, Silicone, Fluoropolymer, Polypropylene, Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE), Thermoplastic rubber (TPR), latex, and/or any other tube material that enables the tube 130 to be substantially bent before breaking, as opposed to rigid tubes (e.g., metallic tubes). In an example, the tube 130 may have about 4 millimeters (mm) of diameter in another example, the tube 130 may have about 6 mm of diameter. In yet another example, the tube 130 may have about 8 mm of diameter. A plurality of examples of the metric of the tube 130 have been disclosed, however any other metric may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure; such as, a tube 130 of less than 4 mm of diameter, or a tube 130 of more than 8 mm of diameter. In an example, the tube 130 may be part of a printing system, external from the apparatus 100. In additional examples, the tube 130 may be included in the apparatus 100. [0022] As used herein, the term "about" and/or "substantially" are used to provide flexibility to a range endpoint by providing that a given value may be, for example, an additional 15% more or an additional 15% less than the endpoints of the range. In another example, the range endpoint may be an additional 30?4 more or an additional 30% less than the endpoints of the range. The degree of flexibility of this term can be dictated by the particular variable and would be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to determine based on experience and the associated description herein.

[0023] The lid 120 is to connect to the base 110 so that the apparatus 100 encloses the part of the tube 130. In other examples, the lid 120 may be provided on the base 110, the lid 120 may be part of the base 110, and/or the base 110 may comprise the lid 120. In an example, the part of the tube 130 may comprise the issue to be fixed therein in an example, the apparatus 100 may comprise a locking mechanism (see, e.g., locking mechanisms 25GA-B, 350A-B, 45GA-B, and/or 550A-B from Figs. 2, 3, 4, and/or 5 respectively) in the base 110 and/or the lid 120 to lock the lid 120 and the base 110. In some examples, the lock may thermally seal the lid 120 and the base 110. The term "thermally seal" should be interpreted as the effect of using some materials that may retain the heat exchange between the inner part of the apparatus 100 and the outer part of the apparatus 100. In an example, by thermally seal it is meant that allows about 1% of heat exchange between the inner chamber and the outside. In another example, by thermally seal it is meant about 5% of heat exchange between the inner chamber and the outside. In another example, by thermally seal it is meant about 10% of heat exchange between the inner chamber and the outside in another example, by thermally seal it is meant about 20% of heat exchange between the inner chamber and the outside. In another example, by thermally seal it is meant about 35% of heat exchange between the inner chamber and the outside. In yet another example by thermally seal it is meant about 50% of heat exchange between the inner chamber and the outside in an example, the locking mechanism may comprise a hinge located in between the base 110 and the lid 120. The hinge may be operable to move the apparatus 100 between (i) an open position (see, e.g., Fig. 2 configuration) wherein the tube 130 may be inserted in the apparatus 100, and (ii) a closed position (see, e.g., Fig. 3 configuration) wherein the tube 130 is enclosed by the apparatus 100. in the closed configuration the apparatus 100 may create a freezing chamber (e.g., thermally sealed chamber wherein the tube 130 is located). In another example, the locking mechanism may comprise at least one magnet to magnetically seal the base 110 and the lid 120. In yet another example, the locking mechanism may comprise any other locking device, such as a groove through the base 110 and the lid 120 to be locked with an elongated-type item (e.g., cylinder, screw) placed therethrough. The previous examples, may be installed additionally, or alternatively, with any insulation material to enhance the effect of the thermally seal of the locking mechanism. Some examples of additional insulation materials may be: Fiberglass, Mineral Wool, Cellulose, Polyurethane Foam, Polystyrene (i.e., Styrofoam), or any other similar insulation material.

[0024] The apparatus 100 is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the tube 130 enclosed in the apparatus 100. The freezing agent is to enter the freezing chamber and freeze the liquid inside the part of the tube 130 enclosed in the apparatus 100. In an example, after freezing the liquid inside the part of the tube 130 enclosed in the apparatus 100, said liquid turns from the original liquid state to a solid state. In another example, after freezing the liquid inside the part of the tube 130 enclosed in the apparatus 100, said liquid turns from the original liquid state to a slurry state. In the present disclosure a slurry state should be understood as any composition in a semiliquid state (i.e., any fluid state between liquid and solid). A plurality of freezing agent methods may be used. For example, the apparatus 100 may comprise a freezing agent aperture (see, e.g., freezing agent aperture 240, 340, 440, and/or 540 from Fig. 2, 3, 4, and/or 5 respectively) wherein a freezing agent applicator may supply freezing agent to the freezing chamber, thereby freezing the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 130. in another example, the freezing agent may be poured to an outer wall of the apparatus 100 (e.g., outer wail of the base 110 and/or outer wail of the lid 120) to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 130. Some examples of freezing agent may be tetrafluoroethane, gas dusters, carbon dioxide, dimethyl ether, nitrogen, and/or any other fluid capable of freezing the liquid comprised within the part of the tube 130 (e.g., commercially available freezing sprays).

[0025] Additional examples of apparatus 100 may comprise a base 110 and a lid 120 to receive a plurality of flexible and/or semi-rigid tubes (see, e.g., apparatus 500 from Fig. 5). [0026] Fig. 2-5 may be examples of apparatus 100 of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus 200 to repair a tube 230. The apparatus 200 is illustrated in an open configuration, wherein a lid 220 and a base 210 are not completely sealed through the locking mechanism 250A-B. The apparatus 200 comprises a base 210 and a lid 220. The base 210 and the lid 220 may be the same as or similar to the base 110 and the lid 120 of Fig. 1 respectively. The tube 230 may be the same as or similar to the tube 130 from Fig. 1. In an example, the tube 230 may be part of a printing system. The base 210 may be to receive a part of a tube 230, the part of the tube 230 is illustrated by the references "A" and "B". In some examples, the issue to be fixed from the tube 130 may be located in a position between the references "A" and "B". The lid 220 is to connect to the base 230 so that the apparatus 200 encloses the part of the tube 230.

[0027] The apparatus 200 may also comprise a locking mechanism 25GA-B to lock the base 210 and the lid 220. In an example, there is a locking mechanism 250A connecting the base 210 and the lid 220 such as a hinge. In another example, there is a locking mechanism 250B located in the base 210 and the lid 220 such as a groove, wherein an elongated-type item (e.g., cylinder, screw) may slide therethrough to seal the base 210 and the lid 220 of the apparatus 200. Additionally, or alternatively, the locking mechanism 250A-B may comprise, for example, at least one magnet to magnetically seal the base 210 and the lid 220 from the apparatus 200. In another example, the locking mechanism 250A-B may comprise a magnet placed in substantially each of the corners of the base 210 and the lid 220 from the apparatus 200, for example, by pairing magnets with inversed polarities or by pairing magnets with metals (e.g., base/lid metallic housing). The base 210 and the lid 220 may define, in a closed configuration, a chamber 260 therein. The chamber 260 may be a volume defined between the lid 220 inner wall and the base 210 inner wail in which the part of the tube 230 may reside therein. Other examples may define a plurality of chambers within the volume defined between the lid 220 inner wail and the base 210 inner wail.

[0028] The apparatus 200 is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the tube 230 therein. In an example, a freezing agent may be poured to an outer wall of the apparatus 200 (e.g., outer wail of the base 210 and/or outer wall of the lid 220) to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 230 In another example, the apparatus 200 may comprise a freezing agent aperture 240 wherein a freezing agent applicator may supply freezing agent therethrough to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 230. The agent aperture 240 may f!uidical!y connect the environment with the chamber 260

[0029] In the example, a single tube 230 has been disclosed for simplicity, however other possible examples may comprise additional tubes (see, e.g., Fig 5)

[0030] Fig 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an apparatus 300 to repair a tube 330. The apparatus 300 is illustrated in a closed position, wherein a lid 330 and a base 310 are attached by the locking mechanism 350A-B. In an example, the apparatus 300 may be the apparatus 200 in a closed configuration in another example, the apparatus 300 may be a different apparatus from the apparatus 200. The apparatus 300 comprises a base 310 and a lid 320. The base 310 and the lid 320 may be the same as or similar to the base 110 and the lid 120 of Fig. 1 respectively. The tube 330 may be the same as or similar to the tube 130 from Fig. 1. In an example, the tube 330 may be part of a printing system. The base 310 may be to receive a part of a tube 330 The lid 320 is connected to the base 310 so that the apparatus 300 encloses itself around the part of the tube 330.

[0031] The apparatus 300 may also comprise a locking mechanism 350A-B to lock the base 310 and the lid 320 in an example, the locking mechanism 350A may be a hinge or a similar mechanism that connects the base 310 and the lid 320. In another example, the locking mechanism 350B located in the base 310 and the lid 320 is a groove or similar mechanism, wherein an elongated-type item may slide therethrough to seal the base 310 and the lid 320 of the apparatus 300. Additionally, or alternatively, the locking mechanism 350A-B may comprise, at least one magnet to magnetically lock the base 310 and the lid 320 from the apparatus 300.

[0032] In the example, a single tube 330 has been disclosed for simplicity, however other possible examples may comprise additional tubes (see, e.g . Fig. 5).

[0033] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of an apparatus 400 to repair a tube 430. The illustration is a cross-section view of the apparatus 400 in a closed configuration, wherein a lid 420 and a base 410 are sealed through the locking mechanism 450A-B In an example, the apparatus 400 may be the apparatus 200 and/or the apparatus 300 in a closed configuration. In another example, the apparatus 400 may be a different apparatus from the apparatus 200 and/or the apparatus 300. The apparatus 400 comprises a base 410 and a lid 420. The base 410 and the lid 420 may be the same as or similar to the base 110 and the lid 120 of Fig. 1 respectively. The tube 430 may be the same as or similar to the tube 130 from Fig. 1. In an example, the tube 430 may be part of a printing system. The base 410 may be to receive a part of a tube 430. The lid 420 is connected to the base 410 so that the apparatus 400 encloses the part of the tube 430.

[0034] The apparatus 400 may also comprise a locking mechanism 450A-B to lock the base 410 and the lid 420. In an example, there is a locking mechanism 450A connecting the base 410 and the lid 420 such as a hinge. In another example, there is a locking mechanism 450B located in the base 410 and the lid 420 such as a groove, wherein an elongated-type item may slide therethrough to seal the base 410 and the lid 420 of the apparatus 400. The base 410 and the lid 420 may define, when sealed, a chamber 460 therein. The chamber 460 may be the volume defined between the lid 420 inner wall and the base 410 inner wall in which the part of the tube 430 may reside therein. Other examples may define a plurality of chambers within the volume defined between the lid 420 inner wall and the base 410 inner wall.

[0035] The apparatus 400 is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the tube 430 therein in an example, a freezing agent may be poured on an outer wail of the apparatus 400 (e.g., outer wall of the base 410 and/or outer wall of the lid 420} to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 430. in another example, the apparatus 400 may comprise a freezing agent aperture 440 and a freezing agent channel 445. In the example, a freezing agent applicator may supply freezing agent through the freezing agent aperture 440 (e.g., through a freezing gas applicator). The freezing agent may be transferred from the freezing agent aperture 440 to the chamber 460 through the freezing agent channel 445. in the example, the chamber may be substantially thermally isolated to reduce the heat exchange between the inside of the chamber and the outside. The freezing agent channel 445 may be a conduit, hose, or alternative tube connecting the freezing agent aperture 440 and the chamber 460. In the illustration, the freezing agent- aperture 440 and the freezing agent channel 445 are located in the lid 420; however, in another example, the freezing agent aperture 440 and the freezing agent channel 445 may be located in the base 410 The freezing agent is supplied to the chamber 460 through the freezing agent channel 445 to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 430.

[0036] In the example, a single tube 430 has been disclosed for simplicity, however other possible examples may comprise additional tubes (see, e.g., Fig. 5).

[0037] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus 500 to repair tubes

530A-530C The apparatus 500 is illustrated in an open configuration, wherein a lid 520 and a base 510 are not completely sealed through the locking mechanism 550A-B. The apparatus 500 may be the same as or similar to the apparatus 200 comprising a plurality of flexible and/or semi rigid tubes 530A-530C. The apparatus 500 comprises a base 510 and a lid 520. The base 510 and the lid 520 may be the same as or similar to the base 110 and the lid 120 of Fig. 1 respectively.

The tubes 530A--530C may be the same as or similar to the tube 130 from Fig. 1. In an example, the tubes 53GA-53GC may be part of a printing system. The base 510 may be to receive a part of a length of a plurality of tubes 530A-530C. The lid 520 is to connect to the base 510 so that the apparatus 500 encloses itself around the part of the length of the plurality of tubes 530A-530C. in the example, the plurality of tubes 530A-530C comprises three tubes, however other possible examples may comprise more or less tubes.

[0038] In an example, the apparatus 500 may comprise two tubes: a first tube 530A, and a second tube 530B The first tube 530A may comprise additive manufacturing fusing agent (e.g., HP Fusing Agent); the second tube 530B may comprise additive manufacturing detailing agent (e.g , HP detailing agent).

[0039] In another example, the apparatus 500 may comprise four tubes: a first tube 530A, a second tube 530B, a third tube 530C, and a fourth tube 530D (not shown). The first tube 530A may comprise a printing composition with Cyan pigments (e.g., HP Cyan ink); the second tube 530B may comprise a printing composition with Magenta pigments (e.g., HP Magenta ink); the third tube 530C may comprise a printing composition with Yellow pigments (e.g., HP Yellow ink); and the fourth tube 530D may comprise a printing composition with Black pigments (e.g., HP Black ink).

[0040] In another example, the apparatus 500 may comprise six tubes: a first tube 530A, a second tube 53GB, a third tube 530C, a fourth tube 530D (not shown), a fifth tube 53GE (not shown), and a sixth tube 530F (not shown). The first tube 530A may comprise a printing composition with Cyan pigments fe.g., HP Cyan ink); the second tube 530B may comprise a printing composition with Magenta pigments fe.g., HP Magenta ink); the third tube 530C may comprise a printing composition with Yellow pigments fe.g., HP Yellow ink); the fourth tube 530D may comprise a printing composition with Black pigments (e.g., HP Black ink); the fifth tube 530E may comprise a printing composition with Light Magenta pigments (e.g., HP Light Magenta ink); and the sixth tube 530F may comprise a printing composition with Light Cyan pigments (e.g., HP Light Cyan ink).

[0041] In another example, the apparatus 500 may comprise seven tubes: a first tube 530A, a second tube 530B, a third tube 530C, a fourth tube 530D (not shown), a fifth tube 530E (not shown), a sixth tube 530F (not shown); and a seventh tube 530G (not shown). The first tube 530A may comprise a printing composition with Cyan pigments (e.g., HP Cyan ink); the second tube 530B may comprise a printing composition with Magenta pigments (e.g., HP Magenta ink); the third tube 530C may comprise a printing composition with Yellow pigments (e.g., HP Yellow ink); the fourth tube 53QD may comprise a printing composition with Black pigments (e.g., HP Black ink); the fifth tube 530E may comprise a printing composition with Light Magenta pigments (e.g., HP Light Magenta ink); the sixth tube 530F may comprise a printing composition with Light Cyan pigments (e.g., HP Light Cyan ink); and the seventh tube may comprise a printing composition with White pigments (e.g , HP White ink).

[0042] In yet another example, the apparatus 500 may comprise nine tubes: a first tube 530A, a second tube 530B, a third tube 530C, a fourth tube 530D (not shown), a fifth tube 530E (not shown), a sixth tube 530F (not shown); a seventh tube 530G (not shown); an eighth tube 530H (not shown); and a ninth tube 5301 (not shown). The first tube 530A may comprise a printing composition with Cyan pigments (e.g., HP Cyan ink); the second tube 530B may comprise a printing composition with Magenta pigments (e.g., HP Magenta ink); the third tube 530C may comprise a printing composition with Yellow pigments (e.g., HP Yellow ink); the fourth tube 530D may comprise a printing composition with Black pigments (e.g., HP Black ink); the fifth tube 530E may comprise a printing composition with Light Magenta pigments (e.g., HP Light Magenta ink); the sixth tube 530F may comprise a printing composition with Light Cyan pigments (e.g., HP Light Cyan ink); the seventh tube may comprise a printing composition with White pigments (e.g., HP White ink); the eight tube may comprise a non-pigmented printing composition with a printing property, for example, to enhance the pigment adhering properties on the substrate (e.g., HP Optimizer); and the ninth tube may comprise another non-pigmented printing composition with another printing property, for example, an scratch-resistant coating (e.g., HP Fixer).

[0043] The apparatus 500 may also comprise a locking mechanism 550A-B to lock the base 510 and the lid 520. in the present disclosure, the term locking mechanism should be understood as any mechanism that may contact, close, and/or seal the base 510 and the lid 520. In an example, there is a locking mechanism 550A connecting the base 510 and the lid 520 such as a hinge. In another example, there is a locking mechanism 550B located in the base 510 and the lid 520 such as a groove, wherein an elongated-type item may slide therethrough to seal the base 510 and the lid 520 of the apparatus 500. The base 510 and the lid 520 may define, in a closed configuration, a chamber 560 therein. The chamber 560 may be the volume defined between the lid 520 inner wall and the base 510 inner wall in which the part of the length of the plurality of tubes 530A-530C may reside therein. Other examples may define a plurality of chambers within the volume defined between the lid 520 inner wall and the base 510 inner wall.

[0044] The apparatus 500 is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the plurality of tubes 530A-530C therein. In an example, a freezing agent may be poured to an outer wall of the apparatus 500 (e.g., outer wall of the base 510 and/or outer wall of the lid 520) to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the length of the plurality of tubes 530A-530C. In another example, the apparatus 500 may comprise a freezing agent aperture 540 wherein a freezing agent applicator may supply freezing agent therethrough to freeze the liquid comprised in the part of the tube 530. The agent aperture 540 may fluidically connect the environment with the chamber 560.

[0045] Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system 600 to repair tubes. The system 600 comprises a first repairing apparatus 610 and a second repairing apparatus 620. The first repairing apparatus 610 may be the same as or similar to the apparatus 100 from Fig. 1. The second repairing apparatus 620 may be the same as or similar to the apparatus 100 from Fig. 1. [0046] In some examples, the issue to be repaired from a tube (e.g., tube 130 from Fig. 1) may comprise a longer area than the length of a repairing apparatus (e.g., length of apparatus 100 from Fig. 1). In an example of the present disclosure, two repairing apparatuses may be used to freeze, for example, the edges of the area of the issue. In another example, the two repairing apparatuses may be used to freeze the edges of a part of the tube wherein the issue is comprised therein.

[0047] The first repairing apparatus 610 is to be installed in a first location from a tube 630 (e.g., a first edge of the area of the issue), and the second repairing apparatus 620 is to be installed in a second location from the tube 630 (e.g., the second edge of the area of the issue). The tube 630 may be the same as or similar to the tube 130 from Fig. 1. The first repairing apparatus 610 may comprise a first volume (e.g., chamber 260 from Fig. 2) with the first location of the tube 630 therein. The second repairing apparatus 620 may comprise a second volume (e.g., chamber 260 from Fig. 2) with the second location of the tube 630 therein.

[0048] The first location of the tube 630 from the first volume and the second location of the tube 630 of the second volume are to be frozen by a freezing agent in an example, the freezing agent may be poured on an outer wall of the repairing apparatus 610 and/or repairing apparatus 620 to freeze the liquid comprised in the first location and/or second location of the tube 630. In another example, the repairing apparatus 610 and/or repairing apparatus 620 may comprise a freezing agent aperture and/or a freezing agent channel. In the example, a freezing agent applicator may supply freezing agent through the freezing agent aperture. The freezing agent may be transferred from the freezing agent aperture to the first volume and/or second volume through the freezing agent channel. In the example, the first volume and/or second volume may be substantially thermally isolated to reduce the heat exchange between the inside of the volumes and the outside.

[0049] The first location of the tube and the second location of the tube 630 are to be cut. The repair of the tube 630 may comprise cutting a section of the tube 630 in the first location and another section of the tube 630 in the second location. The user may then either (i) connect the two edges of the remaining tube 630 together after the cutting, or (ii) connect an intermediate tube between the two edges of the remaining tube 630 after the cutting. [0050] Fig. 7 is a flowchart of an example method 700 for repairing tubes. Method 700 may be described below as being executed or performed by an apparatus, such as apparatus 100 of Fig. 1. Various other suitable apparatuses may be used as well, such as apparatus 200 of Fig. 2, 300 of Fig. 3, 400 of Fig. 4, 500 of Fig. 5, and/or 600 of Fig. 6. In some implementations of the present disclosure, method 700 may include more or less blocks than are shown in Fig. 7. In some implementations, at least one of the blocks of method 700 may, at certain times, be performed in parallel and/or may repeat.

[0051] Method 700 may start at block 710, and continue to block 720, where a freezing agent may freeze a part of a tube (e.g., tube 130 from Fig. 1} that comprises liquid therein at a location, wherein the freezing solidifies at least part of the liquid. In an example, the part of the tube is placed in a repairing apparatus (e.g., apparatus 100 from Fig. 1) and the freezing agent is applied to the repairing apparatus comprising the part of the tube. Additionally, the repairing apparatus may comprise, for example, a lid (e.g., lid 120 from Fig. 1) and a base (e.g., base 110 from Fig. 1). By enclosing the part of the tube in the repairing apparatus, a higher concentration of freezing fluid per unit of volume may be obtained, thereby (i) avoiding waste of freezing fluid, and (ii) freezing a controlled amount of, for example, printing fluid. Some printing fluids are temperature-sensitive, therefore freezing a small but controlled amount of printing fluid may be beneficial.

[0052] In an example, the base may receive a side of the part of the tube, and the lid may be placed on the base so that the repairing apparatus seals the part of the tube therein. In another example the base may receive a side of the part of the tube, the lid may receive another side of the part of the tube, and the lid may also be placed on the base so that the repairing apparatus seals the part of the tube therein.

[0053] In an example, a locking mechanism may be engaged to thermally seal the base and the lid of the repairing apparatus. For example, using (i) a hinge connecting the base and the lid, (ii) a groove through the base and the lid to be locked with an e!ongated-type item placed therethrough, and/or (iii) at least one magnet.

[0054] There is a plurality of ways to freeze the part of the tube. For example, by injecting a freezing agent in a chamber (e.g., chamber 260, 360, 460, and/or 560 from Fig. 2, 3, 4, and/or 5 respectively) of the repairing apparatus. In another example, by pouring the freezing agent on an outer wall of the repairing apparatus (e.g., outer wall of the base 110 of Fig. 1, and/or outer wall of the lid 120 of Fig. 1).

[0055] At block 740, a user may split the tube at the location thereby obtaining two spit sections of the tube. For example, by cutting a section of the tube substantially perpendicular to the length of the tube.

[0056] At block 760, a user may connect the two split sections of the tube. There is a plurality of ways for connecting two split sections of a tube, for example, by using cloth tape, duct tape, and/or using any other type of tape. Other examples for connecting the two split sections of the tube may involve gluing the two split sections together with an appropriate glue based on the material of the tube in an additional example, the two split sections of the tube may be connected by connecting an intermediate tube of a desired length; therefore, connecting one split end with the first end of the intermediate tube, and the other split end to the second end of the intermediate tube using, for example, the method disclosed herein.

[0057] At block 780, method 700 may end. Method 700 may be repeated multiple times to fix multiple issues.

[0058] Fig. 8 is a flowchart of another example method 800 for repairing tubes. Method 800 may be described below as being executed or performed by an apparatus, such as apparatus 100 of Fig. 1. Various other suitable apparatuses may be used as well, such as apparatus 200 of Fig. 2, 300 of Fig. 3, 400 of Fig. 4, 500 of Fig. 5, and/or 600 of Fig. 6. In some implementations of the present disclosure, method 800 may include more or less blocks than are shown in Fig. 8. In some implementations, at least one of the blocks of method 800 may, at certain times, be performed in parallel and/or may repeat. Method 800 may be used, for example, when the issue to be fixed comprises a longer area from the tube than the full length of the repairing apparatus (e.g., apparatus 100 from Fig. 1). In the example, the part of the tube (e.g., tube 130 from Fig. 1) to be frozen is defined by a first edge and a second edge, and said part of the tube to be frozen is longer than the length of the repairing apparatus.

[0059] Method 800 may start at block 810, and continue to block 820, where the user may install a first repairing apparatus in the length of the tube, wherein the first edge of the part of the tube is covered by the first repairing apparatus. At block 830, the user may install a second repairing apparatus in the length of the tube, wherein the second edge of the part of the tube is covered by the second repairing apparatus. Alternatively, the first repairing apparatus placement (block 820) and the second repairing apparatus placement (block 830) may be placed in a way that the first edge and/or the second edge are comprised between the first repairing apparatus and the second repairing apparatus.

[0060] At block 840, a freezing agent may freeze a first volume associated to the first repairing apparatus, wherein the first volume includes the first edge. At block 850, a freezing agent may freeze a second volume associated to the second repairing apparatus, wherein the second volume includes the second edge. Blocks 840 and 850 may be similar to block 720 from Fig. 7.

[0061] At block 860, the user may cut the tube in the first volume and the second volume. Block 860 may be similar to block 740 from Fig. 7. Additionally, the method may comprise connecting the two split sections of the tube, for example, by reproducing block 760 from Fig. 7.

[0062] At block 870, method 800 may end. Method 800 may be repeated multiple times to fix multiple issues.

[0063] The drawings in the examples of the present disclosure are some examples. Some examples, may include or may not include some units and functions of the procedure for implementing the present disclosure. The units may be combined into one unit or further divided into multiple sub-units. What has been described and illustrated herein is an example of the disclosure along with some of its variations. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are set forth by way of illustration. Many variations are possible within the scope of the disclosure, which is intended to be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

[0064] Example implementations can be realized according to the following clauses:

[0065] Clause 1: A method for repairing a tube comprising (i) freezing a part of the tube that comprises liquid therein at a location, wherein the freezing solidifies at least part of the liquid; (ii) splitting the tube at the location thereby obtaining two split sections of the tube; and connecting the two split sections of the tube.

[0066] Clause 2: The method of clause 1 wherein, during freezing, further comprises placing the part of the tube in a repairing apparatus. [0067] Clause 3: The method of any preceding clause, wherein the repairing apparatus comprises a lid and a base, the method further comprising: (i) receiving a side of the part of the tube on the base, and (ii) placing the lid on the base so that the repairing apparatus receives the part of the tube therein.

[0068] Clause 4: The method of any preceding clause, further comprising placing the lid over the part of the tube so that the lid and the base enclose the part of the tube.

[0069] Clause 5: The method of any preceding clause, further comprising engaging a locking mechanism to lock the base and the lid of the repairing apparatus.

[0070] Clause 6: The method of any preceding clause, wherein the freezing of the part of the tube comprises injecting a freezing agent in a chamber of the repairing apparatus.

[0071] Clause 7: The method of any preceding clause, wherein the freezing of the part of the tube comprises pouring freezing agent on an outer wall of the repairing apparatus.

[0072] Clause 8: The method of any preceding cause, wherein the part of the tube to be frozen is defined by a first edge and a second edge, and wherein the part of the tube to be frozen is longer than a length of the repairing apparatus, the method further comprising: (i) installing a first repairing apparatus in the length of the tube, wherein the first edge of the part of the tube is covered by the first repairing apparatus; (ii) installing a second repairing apparatus in the length of the tube, wherein the second edge of the part of the tube is covered by the second repairing apparatus; (iii) freezing a first volume associated to the first repairing apparatus, the first volume including the first edge; (iv) freezing a second volume associated to the second repairing apparatus, the second volume including the second edge; and (v) cutting the tube in the first volume and the second volume.

[0073] Clause 9: An apparatus to repair a flexible or semi-rigid tube that contains liquid, the apparatus comprising: (i) a base to receive a part of a tube; (ii) a lid to connect to the base so that the apparatus encloses the part of the tube; and (iii) wherein the apparatus is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the tube therein.

[0074] Clause 10: The apparatus of clause 9 further comprising a freezing agent applicator to supply freezing agent.

[0075] Clause 11: The apparatus of any of clauses 9 to 10, wherein the tube is part of a printer. [0076] Clause 12: The apparatus of any of the clauses 9 to 11, further comprising a locking mechanism to lock the lid and the base.

[0077] Clause 13: The apparatus of any of the clauses 9 to 12, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one magnet.

[0078] Clause 14: The apparatus of any of the clauses 9 to 13, wherein the base and the lid are to receive a plurality of flexible and/or semi-rigid tubes.

[0079] Clause 15: A system comprising: (i) a first repairing apparatus to be installed in a first location from a tube, wherein the first repairing apparatus comprises a first volume with the first location of the tube therein; (ii) a second repairing apparatus to be installed in a second location from the tube, wherein the second repairing apparatus comprises a second volume with the second location of the tube therein; (ill) wherein the first location from the tube from the first volume and the second location of the tube from the second volume are to be frozen; and (iv) wherein the first location of the tube and the second location of the tube are to be cut.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT !T !S CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for repairing a tube that comprises liquid therein comprising:

freezing a part of the tube at a location, wherein the freezing solidifies at least part of the liquid;

splitting the tube at the location thereby obtaining two split sections of the tube; and

connecting the two split sections of the tube.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, during freezing, further comprises placing the part of the tube in a repairing apparatus.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the repairing apparatus comprises a lid and a base, the method further comprising:

receiving a side of the part of the tube on the base; and

placing the lid on the base so that the repairing apparatus receives the part of the tube therein.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising placing the lid over the part of the tube so that the lid and the base enclose the part of the tube therein.

5. The method of claim 3, further comprising engaging a locking mechanism to lock the base and the lid of the repairing apparatus.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein the freezing of the part of the tube comprises injecting a freezing agent in a chamber of the repairing apparatus.

7 The method of claim 2, wherein the freezing of part of the tube comprises pouring freezing agent on an outer wall of the repairing apparatus

8 The method of claim 2, wherein the part of the tube is defined by a first edge and a second edge, and wherein the part of the tube is longer than a length of the repairing apparatus, the method further comprising:

installing a first repairing apparatus in the length of the tube, wherein the first edge of the part of the tube is covered by the first repairing apparatus;

installing a second repairing apparatus in the length of the tube, wherein the second edge of the part of the tube is covered by the second repairing apparatus;

freezing a first volume associated to the first repairing apparatus, the first volume including the first edge;

freezing a second volume associated to the second repairing apparatus, the second volume including the second edge; and

cutting the tube in the first volume and the second volume.

9 An apparatus to repair a flexible or semi-rigid tube that contains liquid, the apparatus comprising:

a base to receive a part of a tube;

a lid to connect to the base so that the apparatus encloses the part of the tube; wherein the apparatus is to receive a freezing agent to freeze the part of the tube therein.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a freezing agent applicator to supply freezing agent.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the tube is part of a printer.

12. The apparatus from claim 9, further comprising a locking mechanism to lock the lid and the base.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one magnet.

14. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base and the lid are to receive a plurality of flexible and/or semi-rigid tubes.

15. A system comprising:

a first repairing apparatus to be installed in a first location from a tube, wherein the first repairing apparatus comprises a first volume with the first location of the tube therein;

a second repairing apparatus to be installed in a second location from the tube, wherein the second repairing apparatus comprises a second volume with the second location of the tube therein;

wherein the first location from the tube from the first volume and the second location of the tube from the second volume are to be frozen; and

wherein the first location of the tube and the second location of the tube are to be cut.