Enhancements of mechanical connector technology

Abstract

A mechanical connector provided with a thread on substantially matching frustoconical surfaces extending between two sets of metal nipple seals is upgraded with an ability to transfer torque structurally in addition to friction, which is solely utilized to transfer torque in traditional connectors. Other than zero-pitch angle threads can be also effective in novel connector configurations. High torsional and bending load capacities are achieved structurally by use of: splines, dog-clutch teeth, fitted pins, keys, and / or interlocked thread systems, all used in isolation or in arbitrary combinations. Novel tapering of box and pin surfaces, fin and / or sandwich stiffeners and / or fairings, are provided to optimize loading in all regions of connectors and to meet specific design objectives. Thread angle mismatching between box and pin threads is introduced. Optionally assembly / disassembly fluids that solidify at least in some ranges of design temperatures can be used.

Description

[0001]This application is a Continuation in Part (CIP) application following U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 15 / 239,696 for MECHANICAL CONNECTOR OF LONG TORSIONAL AND BENDING FATIGUE LIFE filed on Aug. 17, 2016 and incorporated herein, which is based on U.S. provisional applications No. 62 / 148,665 filed on Apr. 16, 2015 and No. 62 / 189,437 filed on Jul. 7, 2015, and on PCT Application PCT / US16 / 28033 (WO / 2016 / 168,707) filed Apr. 18, 2016. U.S. provisional patent application 62 / 409,313 filed on Oct. 17, 2016 introduces enhancements to mechanical connector technology. This application claims the benefits of priority related to US provisional applications 62 / 148,665, 62 / 189,437 and 62 / 409,313 and to PCT application PCT / US16 / 28033 (WO / 2016 / 168,707).TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]This invention relates to mechanical connectors used in any engineering application, and in particular in offshore engineering at or near the sea surface, above or below the water surface, as well as anywhere in th...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a new connector technology that can be used in smaller sizes than traditional connectors. The technology includes the use of inside diameter fairings, outside diameter fairings strengthening fins, planar, curved, box or honeycomb stiffeners and web stiffeners for buckling resistance, material saving, and weight control. There are also modifications to thread tooth geometry to enhance leak resistance and improve loading. The patent also discusses the use of new connectors that have variable designs, including tapered connections, to allow for smaller size ranges and higher manufacturing accuracy. The patent also mentions the use of more accurate and robust manufacturing methods, such as 3D printing, to achieve greater dimensional accuracy. The patent also identifies the use of substantially matching frustoconical surfaces and metal nipple seals to prevent disconnection of the connector. Overall, this patent presents a technical solution for reducing the size and improving the efficiency of connectors in various applications.

Problems solved by technology

The above traditional connectors do not typically experience high static or fatigue torsional loads and their torsional load capacities are limited to frictional resistance resulting from radial and axial connector preload that could be augmented by the actual loading of the connector.

Accordingly the Merlin® family connectors characterize with limited torsional load capacities that may be difficult to control accurately by design means.

Oil States Industries offers also a high torsional capacity Lynx connector, but that connector is structurally different and it is not designed with particularly high torsional fatigue strength in mind.

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