Shrouded coupling

Abstract

A coupling for joining pipe elements has segments with attachment members having faces that contact each other when the segments are properly installed on the pipe elements. Each segment has one or more guards and recesses positioned along the faces. The guards on one segment are received within corresponding recesses on the other segment. The guards block the line of sight toward a central space surrounded by the segments and receiving the pipe elements. Indicia on the segments show visual check points to confirm proper engagement between the segments and the pipe elements.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 935,785, filed November 15, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to connectors for connecting pipe components. Background Technology

[0004] This invention relates to segmented mechanical couplings having an arcuate protrusion called a key that engages a groove in a pipe element to mechanically connect those pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship. The segmented mechanical coupling also includes a sealing element that ensures a tight seal of the mechanical connection provided by the coupling. Such couplings comprise segments with bolt-connecting lugs, and bolt and nut assemblies are disposed within through-holes in these lugs. These couplings are typically assembled by tightening the bolts, which causes the segments to face each other, thereby compressing the seal and causing the inner surfaces of the segments (specifically, the surfaces on the lugs) to abut against each other. The abutment between those inner surfaces acts as a "stop" that indicates to the installer that the coupling is fully assembled when there is no visual gap between the surfaces. This visual gap is particularly noticeable on the inside of the fastener (where the washer is visible through the gap). While a planar face-to-face contact usually indicates that the bolts have been properly tightened, in some cases, it is desirable or unavoidable for the connector to be fully and correctly assembled but in a position where the inner surfaces of the segments are in partial or line contact, rather than a complete planar face-to-face contact. Such situations can be unavoidable, such as when the pipe is improperly slotted, out of round, or not to specification; or can be desirable, such as when it is intended that the keys, in all cases, are firmly engaged and deform around the pipe element, requiring some tolerance in the clearance between the bolted joint surfaces, making it impossible to achieve a planar face-to-face contact. In either case, the installer should not misuse the connector by continuing to tighten the bolts in an attempt to achieve a planar face-to-face contact, as such overtightening can create unintended high stress within the bolt and nut assembly. The tendency to generate high stress in bolt and nut assemblies can be exacerbated by the widespread availability of battery-powered impact wrenches, which can apply very high torque to nut and bolt assemblies but provide little physical feedback to the installer of the torque being applied (compared to simpler wrenches that provide the installer with a direct indication of the amount of torque they are applying). Therefore, improvements to mechanical couplings are desired that provide the installer with a visual indication of tightness, even when the inner surfaces of the lugs are not in perfectly planar face-to-face contact, eliminating the need to see the washers between the lugs of the bolted connection. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention relates to a connector for connecting pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship. An exemplary embodiment of the connector according to the invention includes a first segment and a second segment, which are attached end-to-end to each other, thereby enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe element. A first attachment member extends from a first end of the first segment. The first attachment member defines a first surface. A second attachment member extends from a first end of the second segment. The second attachment member defines a second surface. The first and second surfaces are facing each other. A first guard plate is positioned on the first attachment member and extends along at least a portion of the first surface. The first guard plate protrudes toward the second attachment member. A first recess is positioned on the second attachment member and extends along at least a portion of the second surface. When the first and second attachment members are pulled toward each other, the first recess receives the first guard plate. An adjustable first fastener extends between the first and second attachment members for pulling the first and second attachment members toward each other.

[0006] An exemplary connector may further include a second guard plate positioned on a second attachment member. The second guard plate extends at least a portion of a second surface. The second guard plate protrudes toward the first attachment member. A second recess is positioned on the first attachment member and extends at least a portion of a first surface. When the first and second attachment members are pulled toward each other, the second recess receives the second guard plate. For example, the second guard plate is positioned on the side of the second attachment member opposite to the first recess, and the second recess is positioned on the side of the first attachment member opposite to the first guard plate.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, a third attachment member extends from a second end of a first segment. The third attachment member defines a third surface. A fourth attachment member extends from a second end of a second segment. The fourth attachment member defines a fourth surface. The third and fourth surfaces face each other. A third guard plate is positioned on the third attachment member and extends along at least a portion of the third surface. The third guard plate protrudes toward the fourth attachment member. A third recess is positioned on the fourth attachment member and extends along at least a portion of the fourth surface. When the third and fourth attachment members are pulled toward each other, the third recess receives the third guard plate. An adjustable second fastener extends between the third and fourth attachment members for pulling the third and fourth attachment members toward each other.

[0008] In a further example, a fourth guard plate is positioned on a fourth attachment member. The fourth guard plate extends at least a portion of a fourth surface. The fourth guard plate protrudes toward the third attachment member. A fourth recess is positioned on the third attachment member and extends at least a portion of a third surface. When the third and fourth attachment members are pulled toward each other, the fourth recess receives the fourth guard plate.

[0009] For example, a third guard plate is positioned on the side of the third attachment member opposite to the fourth recess, and a fourth guard plate is positioned on the side of the fourth attachment member opposite to the third recess. A further exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a hinge positioned at a second end of each of the first and second segments. When the first and second segments are pulled toward each other, the first and second segments pivot about the hinge. In an exemplary embodiment, a second guard plate is positioned on the second attachment member. The second guard plate extends along at least a portion of a second surface. The second guard plate protrudes toward the first attachment member. A second recess is positioned on the first attachment member and extends along at least a portion of a first surface. When the first and second attachment members are pulled toward each other, the second recess receives the second guard plate. In an exemplary embodiment, the second guard plate is positioned on the side of the second attachment member opposite to the first recess, and the second recess is positioned on the side of the first attachment member opposite to the first guard plate.

[0010] For example, the hinge includes a first protrusion projecting from a second end of a first segment. A second protrusion projectes from a second end of a second segment and is positioned near the first protrusion. A first fulcrum is positioned on the first protrusion and contacts the second protrusion. The segment pivots about the first fulcrum. A connector extends between the first and second protrusions and captures both protrusions. An exemplary embodiment includes a second fulcrum positioned on the second protrusion. The second fulcrum contacts the first fulcrum. For example, a first platform is positioned adjacent to the first fulcrum on the first protrusion, and a second platform is positioned adjacent to the second fulcrum on the second protrusion. The first and second platforms are oriented at an angle relative to a plane defining the interface between the first and second segments. As a further example, a first head protrudes from the first protrusion and a second head protrudes from the second protrusion. The connector engages the first and second heads to hold the connector to the protrusion. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector includes a loop surrounding the first and second protrusions.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a first attachment member includes a first lug defining a first hole for receiving a first fastener, and a second attachment member includes a second lug defining a second hole for receiving the first fastener. In a particular example, a portion of a first surface surrounds the first hole and a portion of a second surface surrounds the second hole. In a further exemplary embodiment, the first attachment member includes a first lug defining a first hole for receiving a first fastener, the second attachment member includes a second lug defining a second hole for receiving a first fastener, the third attachment member includes a third lug defining a third hole for receiving a second fastener, and the fourth attachment member includes a fourth lug defining a fourth hole for receiving a second fastener. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of a first surface surrounds the first hole, a portion of a second surface surrounds the second hole, a portion of a third surface surrounds the third hole, and a portion of a surface surrounds the fourth hole.

[0012] An exemplary embodiment of the connector according to the invention may further include a first indicator mark positioned on a first attachment member and a second indicator mark positioned on a second attachment member. When the first segment and the second segment are pulled toward each other, the first indicator mark and the second indicator mark align with each other. For example, the first indicator mark and the second indicator mark may be integrally formed with the first attachment member and the second attachment member, respectively. As another example, the connector according to the invention may include a first indicator mark positioned on a first attachment member, a second indicator mark positioned on a second attachment member, a third indicator mark positioned on a third attachment member, and a fourth indicator mark positioned on a fourth attachment member. In an exemplary embodiment, when the first segment and the second segment are pulled toward each other, the first indicator mark and the second indicator mark align with each other, and the third indicator mark and the fourth indicator mark align with each other. In a particular exemplary embodiment, the first indicator mark, the second indicator mark, the third indicator mark, and the fourth indicator mark are integrally formed with the first attachment member, the second attachment member, the third attachment member, and the fourth attachment member, respectively.

[0013] An exemplary embodiment may further include a first tooth positioned at a first end of the first segment. The first tooth projects toward the second segment. A first socket is positioned at the first end of the second segment. When the first segment and the second segment are pulled toward each other, the first socket receives the first tooth. As a further example, a second tooth may be positioned at the first end of the second segment. The second tooth projects toward the first segment. A second socket may be positioned at the first end of the first segment. When the first segment and the second segment are pulled toward each other, the second socket receives the second tooth.

[0014] In an exemplary connector embodiment, each first segment and second segment includes a first arcuate protrusion and a second arcuate protrusion on opposite sides of each segment. Each arcuate protrusion extends between a first end and a second end of the segment. When the first and second segments are pulled toward each other, each arcuate protrusion can engage with one of the pipe elements. An exemplary embodiment also includes a seal positioned between the segments. For example, the seal may include a ring. The ring supports the first and second segments in a spatial relationship sufficient to insert the pipe element into the central space. In a particular exemplary embodiment, the first fastener includes a threaded bolt and a nut. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the connector according to the present invention, shown in a factory assembly configuration;

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Isometric view of the components of the connector shown;

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The end view of the connector shown;

[0018] Figure 4 This will occur when connecting pipe components (not shown). Figure 1 The isometric view of the connector shown is shown.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of the connector according to the invention, shown in a factory assembly configuration;

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Isometric view of the components of the connector shown;

[0021] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The end view of the connector shown;

[0022] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The end view of the connector shown illustrates its connection to... Figure 7 The ends opposite each other; and

[0023] Figure 9 This will occur when connecting pipe components (not shown). Figure 5 The isometric view of the connector shown is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1An exemplary connector 10 for connecting pipe elements (not shown) in an end-to-end relationship is illustrated. The connector 10 includes a first segment 12 and a second segment 14, which are attached end-to-end to each other, thereby enclosing a central space 16 for receiving the pipe elements. A first attachment member 18 extends from a first end 20 of the first segment 12. Figure 2 As shown, the attachment member 18 defines a first surface 22. In this exemplary embodiment, the attachment member 18 includes a first lug 24. (As illustrated in...) Figure 1 As shown, lug 24 defines a first hole 26 for receiving a first fastener 28. In this embodiment, a portion of the first face 22 surrounds the hole 26.

[0025] As in Figure 1 As further shown, the second attachment member 30 extends from the first end 32 of the second segment 14. The second attachment member 30 defines a second surface 34. The first attachment member 18 and the second attachment member 30 are arranged such that the first surface 22 and the second surface 34 are facing each other. Similar to the first attachment member, the second attachment member 30 includes a second lug 36 that defines a second hole 38 for receiving a fastener 28. A portion of the second surface 34 on the second attachment member 30 surrounds the second hole 38.

[0026] As in Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a first guard plate 40 is positioned on a first attachment member 18. The first guard plate 40 extends at least a portion of a first surface 22. The first guard plate protrudes toward a second attachment member 30. A first recess 42 is positioned on the second attachment member 30 and extends at least a portion of a second surface 34. Figure 4 As shown, when the first attachment member 18 and the second attachment member 30 are pulled toward each other to engage the pipe element (not shown) and form a connection, the first recess 42 receives the first guard plate 40. In this exemplary embodiment, the fastener 28, including the threaded bolt 44 and the nut 46, can be adjusted to pull the attachment members 18 and 30 toward each other to engage as described below.

[0027] As in Figure 3 As shown, the second guard plate 48 is positioned on the second attachment member 30. The second guard plate 48 extends at least a portion of the second surface 34 and protrudes toward the first attachment member 18. The second recess 50 is positioned on the first attachment member 18. The second recess 50 extends at least a portion of the first surface 22. When the fastener 28 is tightened, and the first attachment member 18 and the second attachment member 30 are pulled toward each other, the second recess 22 receives the second guard plate 50.

[0028] Advantageously, segments 12 and 14 are designed as opposite mirror images of each other for their attachment member interfaces (including faces 22 and 34, guards 40 and 48, and recesses 42 and 50), so that only one type of segment needs to be manufactured. This is ensured by positioning the second guard 48 on the opposite side of the second attachment member 30 to the first recess 42 and the second recess 50 on the opposite side of the first attachment member 18 to the first guard 40. Further advantageously, markings are used on segments 12 and 14 that draw attention to checkpoints that can be used for visual confirmation of when a satisfactory connection has been achieved. For example, Figure 1 A first indicator mark 52 located on the first attachment member 18 and a second indicator mark 54 located on the second attachment member 30 are shown. (As shown in...) Figure 4 As shown, the first indicator mark 52 and the second indicator mark 54 are aligned with each other when the first segment 12 and the second segment 14 are pulled together, and point to the position where the first surface 22 and the second surface 34 on the corresponding attachment parts 18 and 30 contact each other when a satisfactory connection is achieved. If surfaces 22 and 34 do not contact at the points indicated by the indicator marks 52 and 54, the connector has not been properly installed. Figure 3 As shown, it is convenient to position the indicator marks 52 and 54 on both sides of the two attachment parts 18 and 30 to prevent one side of the connector 10 from being inconvenient to see during installation. The indicator marks 52 and 54 are integrally cast with the segments 12 and 14, but other forms of indicator marks (such as machined marks or decals) are also possible.

[0029] To aid in the proper inspection of installed connectors and to avoid misleading indicators of a satisfactory connection, the engagement between guards 40 and 48 and their respective receiving recesses 42 and 50 obstructs the view toward the central space 16, where the visible gaps between segments (e.g., typically highlighted by color contrast between segments and seals) are conventionally used as indicators of a satisfactory connection (see...). Figure 4 ( ) is an indicator, although in some cases it is an inadequate indicator.

[0030] As in Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the exemplary connector 10 includes a hinge 56 positioned at corresponding second ends 58 and 60 of the first segment 12 and the second segment 14. Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown in the comparison, when the first segment 12 and the second segment 14 are pulled toward each other, they pivot about the hinge 56. While many hinge types are feasible, in this embodiment, the hinge 56 includes a first protrusion 62 projecting from the second end 58 of the first segment 12. A second protrusion 64 projectes from the second end 60 of the second segment 14 and is positioned near the first protrusion 62. A first fulcrum 66 and a second fulcrum 68 are positioned on the first protrusion 62 and the second protrusion 64, respectively. Figure 1 and 4 As shown, the fulcrums contact each other to allow segments 12 and 14 to pivot. Fulcrums 66 and 68 are at least partially defined by corresponding first platforms 70 and second platforms 72. The first platform 70 is positioned adjacent to the first fulcrum 66 on the first protrusion 62, and the second platform 72 is positioned adjacent to the second fulcrum 68 on the second protrusion 64. The first platform 70 and the second platform 72 are oriented at an angle relative to the first surface 22 and the second surface 34 of the first segment 12 and the second segment 14, the intersection of which defines the interface between the segments.

[0031] The exemplary hinge 56 also includes a first head 74 projecting from a first protrusion 62 and a second head 76 projecting from a second protrusion 64. Heads 74 and 76 engage a connector 78 and hold the connector 78 to the protrusions 62 and 64, which holds segments 12 and 14 together. In this example, the connector 78 includes a ring 80 surrounding the first and second protrusions.

[0032] As in Figure 2 As shown, the exemplary connector 10 according to the invention may further include a first tooth 82 positioned at a first end 20 of the first segment 12. Figure 3 As shown, the first tooth 82 protrudes toward the second segment 14 and is received in a first socket 84 located at the first end 32 of the second segment 14. The first socket 84 receives the first tooth 82 when the first segment 12 and the second segment 14 are pulled toward each other. The second tooth 86 may also be located at the first end 32 of the second segment 14. The second tooth 86 protrudes toward the first segment 12 and is received in a second socket 88 located at the first end 20 of the first segment 12 (see...). Figure 2 Inside. When the first segment 12 and the second segment 14 are pulled toward each other, the second socket 88 receives the second tooth 86. The engagement between the teeth 82 and 86 and their corresponding receiving sockets 84 and 88 strengthens the connection formed by the connector 10. Like the guard plate and its receiving recess, the teeth and sockets of the first segment 12 and the second segment 14 are positioned as opposite mirror images of each other.

[0033] As in Figure 2As shown, when the connector 10 is used with end-grooved pipe elements, each of the first and second segments includes a first arcuate protrusion 90 and a second arcuate protrusion 92 on opposite sides of each segment 12 and 14 (12 is shown). Each arcuate protrusion 90, 92 extends between a first end (20, 32) and a second end (58, 60) of segments 12 and 14. Each arcuate protrusion can engage with one of the pipe elements when the first and second segments are pulled toward each other. Figure 1 As shown, seal 94 is positioned between segments 12 and 14. In this exemplary embodiment, the seal includes a ring 96. Advantageously, ring 96 can be used to support the first segment 12 and the second segment 14 at a spacing sufficient to allow insertion of a pipe element into the central space 16. This is referred to as a "factory-assembled" configuration (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 The connector 10 will be provided to the end user in this configuration, ready for installation without the need for disassembly and subsequent reassembly. The installer simply inserts the pipe element into the central space 16 and then tightens the fasteners 28. This is achieved by inspecting the contact surfaces 22 and 34 at indicator marks 52 and 54 (see...). Figure 4 Use this to confirm the correct connection.

[0034] Figure 5 Another exemplary connector embodiment 98 for connecting pipe elements according to the present invention is shown. The connector 98 includes a first segment 100 and a second segment 102, which are attached end-to-end to each other, thereby enclosing a central space 104 for receiving a pipe element (not shown). A first attachment member 106 extends from a first end 108 of the first segment 100; a second attachment member 110 extends from a first end 112 of the second segment 102; a third attachment member 114 extends from a second end 116 of the first segment 100; and a fourth attachment member 118 extends from a second end 120 of the second segment 102. Each attachment member defines a face. (As shown in...) Figure 6 As illustrated by the example, the first attachment member 106 defines the first surface 122. (As shown in...) Figure 7 As shown, the second attachment member 110 defines a second surface 124. The first surface 122 and the second surface 124 are facing each other. Figure 8 A third attachment member 114 defining a third surface 126 and a fourth attachment member 118 defining a fourth surface 128 are shown. The third surface 126 and the fourth surface 128 are facing each other. (As shown in...) Figure 5 As shown, the first fastener 130 and the second fastener 132 connect segments 100 and 102 via attachment members at opposite ends of each segment. Figure 6As shown, the first attachment member 106 includes a first lug 134 that defines a first hole 136 for receiving a first fastener 130. Figure 7 A second attachment member 110 is shown, which includes a second lug 138 defining a second hole 140 that also receives a first fastener 130. (As shown in...) Figure 8 As shown, the third attachment member 114 includes a third lug 142 defining a third hole 144, and the fourth attachment member 118 includes a fourth lug 146 defining a fourth hole 148. The third and fourth holes receive a second fastener 132. Faces 122, 124, 126, and 128 on the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 have portions surrounding holes defined by the lugs (the faces on the lugs). An example of this configuration is shown in... Figure 6 As shown, a portion of the first surface 122 surrounds the first hole 136 defined by the first lug 134 at the first end 112 of the first segment 100. The second surfaces 124, third surfaces 126, and fourth surfaces 128 on the second lug 138, the third lug 142, and the fourth lug 146 are similarly arranged.

[0035] As in Figure 6 As shown, the first guard plate 150 is positioned on the first attachment member 106. The first guard plate 150 extends at least a portion of the first surface 122, and as shown in Figure 7 As shown, it protrudes toward the second attachment member 110. A first recess 152 is positioned on the second attachment member 110 and extends at least a portion along the second surface 124. (As shown in...) Figure 9 As shown, when the first attachment member 106 and the second attachment member 110 are pulled toward each other, the first recess 152 receives the first guard plate 150. Figure 7 As further shown, the second guard plate 154 is positioned on the second attachment member 110 and extends at least a portion of the second surface 124. The second guard plate 154 protrudes toward the first attachment member 106 and is received within a second recess 156 positioned on the first attachment member 106. The second recess 156 extends at least a portion of the first surface 122.

[0036] As in Figure 8 As shown, a third guard plate 158 is positioned on a third attachment member 114. The third guard plate 158 extends at least a portion of a third surface 126 and projects toward a fourth attachment member 118. A third recess 160 is positioned on the fourth attachment member 118 and extends at least a portion of a fourth surface 128. When the third attachment member 114 and the fourth attachment member 118 are pulled toward each other, the third recess 160 receives the third guard plate 158. Figure 8As further shown, the fourth guard plate 162 is positioned on the fourth attachment member 118 and extends at least a portion of the fourth surface 128. The fourth guard plate 162 protrudes toward the third attachment member 114 and is received within a fourth recess 164 positioned on the third attachment member 114. The fourth recess 164 extends at least a portion of the third surface 126.

[0037] Advantageously, segments 100 and 102 are designed as opposite mirror images of each other for their attachment member interfaces (including faces 122, 124, 126 and 128, guard plates 150, 154, 158 and 162, and recesses 152, 156, 160 and 164), so that only one type of segment needs to be manufactured. This is ensured by positioning the second guard plate 154 on the opposite side of the second attachment member 110 to the first recess 152 and positioning the second recess 156 on the opposite side of the first attachment member 106 to the first guard plate 150. Similarly, the third guard plate 158 is positioned on the opposite side of the third attachment member 114 to the fourth recess 164, and the fourth guard plate 162 is positioned on the opposite side of the fourth attachment member 118 to the third recess 160.

[0038] A further advantage is the use of markings on segments 100 and 102 that draw attention to checkpoints, which can be used to visually confirm when a satisfactory connection has been achieved. For example, Figure 7 and Figure 8 A first indicator mark 166 is positioned on a first attachment member 106, a second indicator mark 168 is positioned on a second attachment member 110, a third indicator mark 170 is positioned on a third attachment member 114, and a fourth indicator mark 172 is positioned on a fourth attachment member 118. (As shown in...) Figure 9 As shown, the indicator marks 166 and 168 are aligned with each other when the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are pulled together, and point to the position where the first surface 122 and the second surface 124 on the respective attachment parts 106 and 110 contact each other when a satisfactory connection is achieved. Figure 9 It is also shown that when the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are pulled together, the third indicator mark 170 and the fourth indicator mark 172 are aligned with each other. When a satisfactory connection has been achieved, the indicator marks 170 and 172 point to the positions where the third surface 126 and the fourth surface 128 on the corresponding attachment parts 114 and 118 are in contact with each other. If surfaces 122 and 124 are not in contact at the points indicated by indicator marks 166 and 168, and if surfaces 126 and 128 are not in contact at the points indicated by indicator marks 170 and 172, then the connector 98 has not been properly installed. Figure 7 and 8As shown, it is convenient to position the indicator marks 166, 168, 170, and 172 on both sides of the attachment parts 106, 110, 114, and 118 to prevent obstruction of one side of the connector 98 during installation. The indicator marks 166, 168, 170, and 172 are integrally cast with segments 100 and 102, but other forms of indicator marks (such as machined marks or decals) are also possible.

[0039] To aid in the proper inspection of installed couplings and to avoid confusion caused by false indicators of satisfactory connection, the engagement between guards 150, 154, 158, and 162 and their respective receiving recesses 152, 156, 160, and 164 obstructs the view toward the central space 104, where the visible gaps between segments (typically highlighted by color contrast between segments and seals) are traditionally used as indicators of satisfactory connection, although in some cases they are false.

[0040] As in Figure 6 As shown, the first tooth 174 is positioned at the first end 108 of the first segment 100. Figure 7 As shown, the first tooth 174 (if present) protrudes toward the second segment 102, where it is received in a first recess 176 located at the first end 112 of the second segment 102. The first recess 176 receives the first tooth 174 when the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are pulled toward each other. Figure 7 As further shown, the second tooth 178 can be positioned at the first end 112 of the second segment 102. The second tooth 178 (if present) protrudes toward the first segment 100 and is received in a second recess 180 positioned at the first end 108 of the first segment 100 (see also...) Figure 6 When the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are pulled toward each other, the second socket 180 receives the second tooth 178.

[0041] As in Figure 8 As shown, the third tooth 182 can be positioned at the second end 116 of the first segment 100. The third tooth 182 protrudes toward the second segment 102, where it is received in a third recess 184 positioned at the second end 120 of the second segment 102. The third recess 184 receives the third tooth 182 when the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are pulled toward each other. Figure 8As further shown, the fourth tooth 186 can be positioned at the second end 120 of the second segment 102. The fourth tooth 186 protrudes toward the first segment 100 and is received in a fourth recess 188 located at the second end 116 of the first segment 100. When the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are pulled toward each other, the fourth recess 188 receives the fourth tooth 186.

[0042] The engagement between teeth 174, 178, 182, and 186 and their corresponding receiving recesses 176, 180, 184, and 188 strengthens the connection formed by the connector 98. Similar to the guard plate and its receiving recess, the teeth and recesses of the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 are positioned as opposite mirror images of each other.

[0043] As in Figure 6 As shown, when the connector 98 is used with a pipe element with end slots, each of the first and second segments includes a first arcuate protrusion 90 and a second arcuate protrusion 92 on opposite sides of each segment 100 and 102 (100 is shown). Figure 5 and Figure 9 As shown, each arcuate protrusion 90, 92 extends between the first end (108, 112) and the second end (116, 120) of segments 100 and 102. Each arcuate protrusion can engage with one of the pipe elements (not shown) when the first and second segments are pulled toward each other. Figure 5 As shown, seal 94 is positioned between segments 100 and 102. In this exemplary embodiment, the seal includes a ring 96. Advantageously, ring 96 can be used to support the first segment 100 and the second segment 102 at a spacing sufficient to allow insertion of a pipe element into the central space 104. This is referred to as a "factory-assembled" configuration, in which the connector 98 is provided to the end user ready for installation without disassembly and subsequent reassembly of the connector. The installer simply inserts the pipe element into the central space 104 and then tightens fasteners 130 and 132. Correct connection is confirmed by checking contact surfaces 122, 124, 126, and 128 at indicator marks 166, 168, 170, and 172.

[0044] It is desirable that the connectors 10 and 98 according to the invention will improve the installation of mechanical pipe connectors.

Claims

1. A coupling for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling comprising: first and second segments attached to one another end-to-end so as to enclose a central space for receiving the pipe elements; a first attachment member extending from a first end of the first segment, the first attachment member defining a first face; a second attachment member extending from a first end of the second segment, the second attachment member defining a second face, the first and second faces in facing relationship; a first shield positioned along an outwardly facing side surface of the first face of the first attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the first shield projecting toward the second attachment member; a first recess positioned along an outwardly facing side surface of the second face of the second attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the first recess receiving the first shield when the first and second attachment members are pulled toward one another; and an adjustable first fastener extending between the first and second attachment members for pulling the first and second attachment members toward one another; wherein the first attachment member includes a first lug defining a first aperture for receiving the first fastener; the second attachment member includes a second lug defining a second aperture for receiving the first fastener; and a portion of the first face encloses the first aperture and a portion of the second face encloses the second aperture. the coupling further comprising: a second shield positioned on the second attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the second shield projecting toward the first attachment member; 2. The coupling of claim 1, wherein a second recess positioned on the first attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the second recess receiving the second shield when the first and second attachment members are pulled toward one another.

3. The coupling of claim 2, wherein: the second shield is positioned on an opposite side of the second attachment member from the first recess; and the second recess is positioned on an opposite side of the first attachment member from the first shield. the coupling further comprising: a third attachment member extending from a second end of the first segment, the third attachment member defining a third face; 4. The coupling of claim 3, wherein a fourth attachment member extending from a second end of the second segment, the fourth attachment member defining a fourth face, the third and fourth faces in facing relationship; a third shield positioned on the third attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the third face, the third shield projecting toward the fourth attachment member. ​ ​ a third recess positioned on the third attachment component and extending along at least a portion of the third face, the third recess receiving the fourth panel when the third attachment component and the fourth attachment component are pulled toward one another; and an adjustable second fastener extending between the third attachment component and the fourth attachment component for pulling the third attachment component and the fourth attachment component toward one another.

5. The coupling of claim 4, wherein, The coupler further includes: a fourth panel positioned on the fourth attachment component and extending along at least a portion of the fourth face, the fourth panel projecting toward the third attachment component; a fourth recess positioned on the third attachment component and extending along at least a portion of the third face, the fourth recess receiving the fourth panel when the third attachment component and the fourth attachment component are pulled toward one another.

6. The coupler of claim 5, wherein: the third panel is positioned on an opposite side of the third attachment component from the fourth recess; and the fourth panel is positioned on an opposite side of the fourth attachment component from the third recess.

7. The coupling of claim 1, wherein The coupler further includes a hinge positioned at the second end of each of the first segment and the second segment, the first segment and the second segment pivoting about the hinge when the first segment and the second segment are pulled toward one another.

8. The coupling of claim 7, wherein, The coupler further includes: a second panel positioned on the second attachment component and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the second panel projecting toward the first attachment component; a second recess positioned on the first attachment component and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the second recess receiving the second panel when the first attachment component and the second attachment component are pulled toward one another.

9. The coupler of claim 8, wherein: the second panel is positioned on an opposite side of the second attachment component from the first recess; and the second recess is positioned on an opposite side of the first attachment component from the first panel.

10. The coupling of claim 7, wherein, The hinge includes: a first protrusion projecting from the second end of the first segment; a second protrusion projecting from the second end of the second segment and positioned adjacent to the first protrusion; a first fulcrum positioned on the first protrusion and contacting the second protrusion, the segment pivoting about the first fulcrum; a link extending between the first protrusion and the second protrusion and capturing the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

11. The coupling of claim 10, wherein, The coupler further includes a second fulcrum positioned on the second protrusion, the second fulcrum contacting the first fulcrum.

12. The coupling of claim 11, wherein, The coupler further includes: a first platform positioned adjacent to the first fulcrum on the first protrusion; a second platform positioned adjacent to the second fulcrum on the second protrusion, the first and second platforms being angularly oriented relative to a plane defining an interface between the first segment and the second segment.

13. The coupling of claim 11, wherein, The coupler further includes: a first head protruding from the first protrusion; a second head protruding from the second protrusion, the link engaging the first and second heads to retain the link to the protrusions.

14. The coupling of claim 13, wherein, The link includes a loop encircling the first and second protrusions.

15. The coupler of claim 4, wherein: the first attachment component includes a first lug defining a first aperture for receiving the first fastener; the second attachment component includes a second lug defining a second aperture for receiving the first fastener; the third attachment component includes a third lug defining a third aperture for receiving the second fastener; the fourth attachment component includes a fourth lug defining a fourth aperture for receiving the second fastener.

16. The coupling of claim 15, wherein, portions of the first face enclose the first aperture, portions of the second face enclose the second aperture, portions of the third face enclose the third aperture, and portions of the face enclose the fourth aperture.

17. The coupling of claim 1, wherein, The coupler further includes: a first indicator mark positioned on the first attachment component; a second indicator mark positioned on the second attachment component; wherein the first and second indicator marks align with each other when the first and second segments are pulled toward each other.

18. The coupling of claim 17, wherein, The first and second indicator marks are integrally formed with the first and second attachment components, respectively.

19. The coupling of claim 4, wherein, The coupler further includes: a first indicator mark positioned on the first attachment component; a second indicator mark positioned on the second attachment component; a third indicator mark positioned on the third attachment component; a fourth indicator mark positioned on the fourth attachment component; wherein the first and second indicator marks align with each other and the third and fourth indicator marks align with each other when the first and second segments are pulled toward each other.

20. The coupling of claim 19, wherein, The first, second, third, and fourth indicator marks are integrally formed with the first, second, third, and fourth attachment components, respectively.

21. The coupling of claim 1, wherein, The coupler further includes: a first tooth positioned at the first end of the first segment, the first tooth protruding toward the second segment; a first socket positioned at the first end of the second segment, the first socket receiving the first tooth when the first and second segments are pulled toward each other.

22. The coupling of claim 21, wherein, The coupler further includes: a second tooth positioned at the first end of the second segment, the second tooth projecting toward the first segment; a second socket positioned at the first end of the first segment, the second socket receiving the second tooth when the first and second segments are pulled toward one another.

23. The coupling of claim 1, wherein, Each of the first and second segments includes a first and second arcuate projection on opposite sides of each of the segments, each of the arcuate projections extending between a first end and a second end of the segment, each of the arcuate projections being engageable with one of the pipe elements when the first and second segments are pulled toward one another.

24. The coupling of claim 1, wherein, The coupling further includes a seal positioned between the segments.

25. The coupling of claim 24, wherein, The seal includes a ring supporting the first and second segments in a spaced relationship sufficient to insert the pipe elements into the central space.

26. The coupling of claim 1, wherein, The first fastener includes a threaded bolt and a nut.

27. A coupling for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling comprising: a first and second segment attached end-to-end to one another, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe elements; a first attachment member extending from a first end of the first segment, the first attachment member defining a first face; a second attachment member extending from a first end of the second segment, the second attachment member defining a second face, the first and second faces in face-to-face relationship; a first fender positioned along a first outwardly facing side surface of the first attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the first fender projecting toward the second attachment member; a first recess positioned along a second outwardly facing side surface of the second attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the first recess receiving the first fender when the first and second attachment members are pulled toward one another; an adjustable first fastener extending between the first and second attachment members for pulling the first and second attachment members toward one another; and a hinge positioned at a second end of each of the first and second segments, the first and second segments pivoting about the hinge when pulled toward one another; wherein the hinge includes: a first projection projecting from the second end of the first segment; a second projection projecting from the second end of the second segment and positioned adjacent the first projection; a first fulcrum positioned on the first projection and contacting the second projection, the segments pivoting about the first fulcrum; and a link extending between and capturing the first and second projections.

27. A coupling for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling comprising: a first and second segment attached end-to-end to one another, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe elements; a first attachment member extending from a first end of the first segment, the first attachment member defining a first face; a second attachment member extending from a first end of the second segment, the second attachment member defining a second face, the first and second faces in face-to-face relationship; a first fender positioned along a first outwardly facing side surface of the first attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the first fender projecting toward the second attachment member; a first recess positioned along a second outwardly facing side surface of the second attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the first recess receiving the first fender when the first and second attachment members are pulled toward one another; an adjustable first fastener extending between the first and second attachment members for pulling the first and second attachment members toward one another; and a hinge positioned at a second end of each of the first and second segments, the first and second segments pivoting about the hinge when pulled toward one another; wherein the hinge includes: a first projection projecting from the second end of the first segment; a second projection projecting from the second end of the second segment and positioned adjacent the first projection; a first fulcrum positioned on the first projection and contacting the second projection, the segments pivoting about the first fulcrum; and a link extending between and capturing the first and second projections.

28. A coupling for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling comprising: first and second segments attached end-to-end to one another so as to enclose a central space for receiving the pipe elements; a first attachment member extending from a first end of the first segment, the first attachment member defining a first face; a second attachment member extending from a first end of the second segment, the second attachment member defining a second face, the first and second faces in facing relationship; a first shroud positioned along a first outwardly facing side surface of the first attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the first shroud projecting toward the second attachment member; a first recess positioned along a second outwardly facing side surface of the second attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the first recess receiving the first shroud when the first and second attachment members are pulled toward one another; an adjustable first fastener extending between the first and second attachment members for pulling the first and second attachment members toward one another; a first indicator mark positioned on the first attachment member; and a second indicator mark positioned on the second attachment member; wherein the first and second indicator marks align with one another when the first and second segments are pulled toward one another.

29. A coupling for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling comprising: first and second segments attached end-to-end to one another so as to enclose a central space for receiving the pipe elements; a first attachment member extending from a first end of the first segment, the first attachment member defining a first face; a second attachment member extending from a first end of the second segment, the second attachment member defining a second face, the first and second faces in facing relationship; a first shroud positioned along a first outwardly facing side surface of the first attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the first face, the first shroud projecting toward the second attachment member; a first recess positioned along a second outwardly facing side surface of the second attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the second face, the first recess receiving the first shroud when the first and second attachment members are pulled toward one another; an adjustable first fastener extending between the first and second attachment members for pulling the first and second attachment members toward one another; a first tooth positioned at the first end of the first segment, the first tooth projecting toward the second segment; and a second tooth positioned at the first end of the second segment, the second tooth projecting toward the first segment. ​ a first socket positioned at the first end of the second segment, the first socket receiving the first tooth when the first segment and the second segment are pulled toward each other.

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