Coupling with rotation-restricting type

Abstract

To provide a coupling having a suitable rotation-restricting section. [Solution] The pipe coupling has two sections with working surfaces that are angled toward each other in an opposing relationship. The working surfaces induce relative rotation between the sections when they are pulled together to engage with the pipe element to which they are joined. Mounting elements on each section provide adjustable fasteners in the form of lugs that pull the sections together when tightened. Angled support surfaces on the lugs engage with each other and cancel out the forces of the fasteners. Stop surfaces are positioned on the lugs adjacent to the support surfaces. The engagement between the stop surfaces limits relative rotation between the sections.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 110,433, filed on November 6, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] (Field of the Invention) The present invention relates to a mechanical coupling for joining pipe elements.

Background Art

[0003] (Background) It is advantageous to use angled contact surfaces between sections of a mechanical coupling for grooved pipe, and to rotate the sections relative to each other such that a "key" of the coupling locks into a circumferential groove of a pipe element, forming a stronger joint in bending and torsion therebetween. U.S. Patent No. 4,639,020 to Rung et al. (Patent Document 1), incorporated herein by reference, discloses an example of such a coupling.

[0004] While such prior art couplings are very effective in producing a stronger joint, they can present problems in terms of, for example, ease of installation and lack of a consistent visual indication that the coupling is properly installed under all intended conditions. There is clearly an opportunity to improve such mechanical couplings and thus provide a consistent and unambiguous visual indication that facilitates installation and confirms proper installation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0006] (overview) The present invention relates to a coupling for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling comprises a first section and a second section, which are attached to each other to their ends, enclosing a central space for receiving pipe elements. Each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end and a second lug extending from its second end. The first and second lugs of the first section correspond to the first and second lugs of the second section, respectively. A first adjustable fastener extends between the first lugs, and a second adjustable fastener extends between the second lugs. Each section further comprises a first working surface located between the central space and the first lug, and a first support surface located on the first lug. The first fastener is located between the first working surface and the first support surface. The first working surface and the first support surface are oriented at a first angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. The second working surface is located between the central space and the second lug, and the second support surface is located on the second lug. The second fastener is located between the second working surface and the second support surface. The second working surface and the second support surface are oriented at a second angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener. The second angle has an inclination opposite to the first angle. At least one first stop surface is located on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface. The first stop surface is oriented at a third angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle. At least one second stop surface is located on the second lug adjacent to the second support surface. The second stop surface is oriented at a fourth angle having an inclination opposite to the second angle. When the first and second fasteners are adjusted to pull the first and second sections toward each other, the engagement between the first working surfaces at the first end of the section and the engagement between the second working surfaces at the second end of the section rotate the first and second sections toward each other in opposite directions, while the engagement between at least one of the first stop surfaces on the first lug and the second stop surface on the second lug restricts the rotation.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the first lug defines a first opening surrounding a first axis positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. The first opening may extend through the first lug. Furthermore, as an embodiment, the second lug defines a second opening surrounding a second axis positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener. The second opening may extend through the second lug.

[0008] In exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second adjustable fasteners comprises a nut and a bolt. Furthermore, as an embodiment, each section comprises a first and second arc-shaped projection located on the opposite side of the section. Each arc-shaped projection faces the central space. Each arc-shaped projection is engageable within a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the sections are pulled toward each other by the adjustable fasteners. Exemplary embodiments may further comprise a seal located in the central space. The seal supports the sections in a relationship sufficiently far apart to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling. In practical embodiments, the first angle has a 45° inclination and may also have inclinations in the range of 30° to 60°. As an embodiment, the second angle is equal to the first angle but has an opposite inclination.

[0009] The present invention further encompasses couplings for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship. An exemplary embodiment of the coupling comprises a first section and a second section, attached to each other to both ends, enclosing a central space for receiving pipe elements. Each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end and a second lug extending from its second end. The first and second lugs of the first section correspond to the first and second lugs of the second section, respectively. A first adjustable fastener extends between the first lugs, and a second adjustable fastener extends between the second lugs. Each section further comprises a first working surface located between the central space and the first lug, and a first support surface located on the first lug. The first fastener is located between the first working surface and the first support surface. The first working surface is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, and the first support surface is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener at a first angle. The second working surface is located between the central space and the second lug, and the second support surface is located on the second lug. The second fastener is located between the second working surface and the second support surface. The second working surface is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener, and the second support surface is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener at a second angle. The second angle has an inclination opposite to the first angle. At least one first stop surface is located on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface. The first stop surface is oriented at a third angle, which has an inclination opposite to the first angle. At least one second stop surface is positioned on the second lug adjacent to the second support surface. The second stop surface is oriented at a fourth angle having an inclination opposite to the second angle. When the first and second fasteners are adjusted to pull the first and second sections toward each other, the engagement between at least one of the first stop surfaces on the first lug and the second stop surface on the second lug prevents rotation of the sections toward each other.

[0010] In exemplary embodiments, the first lug defines a first opening surrounding a first axis positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. The first opening may extend through the first lug. Furthermore, as an embodiment, the second lug defines a second opening surrounding a second axis positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener. The second opening may extend through the second lug. In specific exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second adjustable fasteners comprises a nut and a bolt.

[0011] In the exemplary embodiment, each section comprises a first and a second arc-shaped projection located on the opposite side of the section. Each arc-shaped projection faces the central space. Each arc-shaped projection is engageable within a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the sections are pulled toward each other by an adjustable fastener.

[0012] Exemplary embodiments may further include a seal positioned within the central space. The seal supports the partition in a sufficiently separated relationship to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling. In practical embodiments, the first angle may have a 45° inclination and may also have inclinations in the range of 30° to 60°. In specific exemplary embodiments, the second angle is equal to the first angle but has an opposite inclination.

[0013] The present invention also includes couplings for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling comprises a first section and a second section that are attached to each other to their ends, enclosing a central space for receiving pipe elements. Each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end. The first lug of the first section aligns with the first lug of the second section. A first adjustable fastener extends between the first lugs. Each section further comprises a second end. The second ends of the sections are arranged opposite to the first ends, respectively. Each second end is connected to a hinge that joins the first and second sections together. The hinge defines a hinge axis oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. The first and second sections are pivotable around the hinge axis. In an embodiment, each section further comprises a first working surface located between the central space and the first lug, and a first support surface located on the first lug. The first fastener is located between the first working surface and the first support surface. The first working surface is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, and the first support surface is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener at a first angle. A first stop surface is located on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface. The first stop surface is oriented at a third angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle. By pivoting the first and second sections and thereby adjusting the first fastener to pull them toward each other, the engagement between the first stop surfaces on the first lug prevents rotation of the sections toward each other.

[0014] In exemplary embodiments, the first lug defines a first opening surrounding a first axis positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. The first opening may extend through the first lug. In practical embodiments, the first adjustable fastener comprises a nut and a bolt.

[0015] In an embodiment, each section comprises a first and second arc-shaped projection located on the opposite side of the section. Each arc-shaped projection faces the central space. Each arc-shaped projection is engageable within a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the sections are pulled toward each other by an adjustable fastener. The coupling according to the present invention may further comprise a seal located within the central space. The seal supports the sections in a sufficiently separated relationship to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling.

[0016] In practical embodiments, the first angle may have a 45° inclination and may have inclinations in the range of 30° to 60°. This specification also provides, for example, the following items: (Item 1) A coupling for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship, wherein the coupling is A first section and a second section, attached to each other to their respective ends, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe element, wherein each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end and a second lug extending from its second end, and the first lug and the second lug of the first section are aligned with the first lug and the second lug of the second section, respectively, A first adjustable fastener extending between the first lugs, and a second adjustable fastener extending between the second lugs Each of the above sections is provided with, A first working surface positioned between the central space and the first lug, and a first support surface positioned on the first lug, wherein the first fastener is positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, and the first working surface and the first support surface are oriented at a first angle transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, A second working surface positioned between the central space and the second lug, and a second support surface positioned on the second lug, wherein the second fastener is positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, and the second working surface and the second support surface are oriented at a second angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener, the second angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle, At least one first stop surface positioned on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface, the first stop surface being directed at a third angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle, At least one second stop surface positioned on the second lug adjacent to the second support surface, wherein the second stop surface is oriented at a fourth angle having an inclination opposite to the second angle, and The coupling further comprises, wherein when the first fastener and the second fastener are adjusted to pull the first and second sections toward each other, the engagement between the first working surfaces at the first end of the section and the engagement between the second working surfaces at the second end of the section causes the first and second sections to rotate toward each other in opposite directions, and the engagement between at least one of the first stop surfaces on the first lug and the second stop surface on the second lug restricts the rotation. (Item 2) The coupling according to item 1, wherein the first lug defines a first opening surrounding a first axis positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. (Item 3) The coupling according to item 2, wherein the first opening extends through the first lug. (Item 4) The second lug defines a second opening that surrounds a second axis positioned between a second working surface and a second support surface, the second opening being oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener, for the coupling according to item 2. (Item 5) The second opening extends through the second lug, for the coupling according to item 4. (Item 6) Each of the first adjustable fastener and the second adjustable fastener includes a nut and a bolt, for the coupling according to item 1. (Item 7) Each of the sections includes a first arcuate protrusion and a second arcuate protrusion positioned on opposite sides of the section, each of the arcuate protrusions facing the central space, each of the arcuate protrusions being engageable within a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the sections are drawn towards each other by the adjustable fastener, for the coupling according to item 1. (Item 8) The coupling further includes a seal positioned within the central space, the seal supporting the sections in a sufficiently spaced relationship to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling, for the coupling according to item 1. (Item 9) The first angle has an inclination of 45°, for the coupling according to item 1. (Item 10) The first angle has an inclination in the range of 30° to 60°, for the coupling according to item 1. (Item 11) The second angle is equal to the first angle but has an inclination opposite to the first angle, for the coupling according to item 1. (Item 12) A coupling for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship, the coupling comprising A first section and a second section, attached to each other to their respective ends, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe element, wherein each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end and a second lug extending from its second end, and the first lug and the second lug of the first section are aligned with the first lug and the second lug of the second section, respectively, A first adjustable fastener extending between the first lugs, and a second adjustable fastener extending between the second lugs Each of the above sections is provided with, A first working surface positioned between the central space and the first lug, and a first support surface positioned on the first lug, wherein the first fastener is positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, the first working surface is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, and the first support surface is oriented at a first angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, A second working surface positioned between the central space and the second lug, and a second support surface positioned on the second lug, wherein the second fastener is positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, the second working surface is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener, and the second support surface is oriented at a second angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener, the second angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle, the second working surface and the second support surface, At least one first stop surface positioned on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface, the first stop surface being directed at a third angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle, At least one second stop surface positioned on the second lug adjacent to the second support surface, wherein the second stop surface is oriented at a fourth angle having an inclination opposite to the second angle, and The coupling further comprises adjusting the first fasteners and the second fasteners so that the first and second sections are drawn toward each other, such that the engagement between at least one of the first stop surfaces on the first lug and the second stop surface on the second lug prevents the sections from rotating toward each other. (Item 13) The coupling according to item 12, wherein the first lug defines a first opening surrounding a first axis positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. (Item 14) The coupling according to item 13, wherein the first opening extends through the first lug. (Item 15) The coupling according to item 13, wherein the second lug defines a second opening surrounding a second axis positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second fastener. (Item 16) The coupling according to item 15, wherein the second opening extends through the second lug. (Item 17) The coupling according to item 12, wherein each of the first adjustable fastener and the second adjustable fastener comprises a nut and a bolt. (Item 18) The coupling according to item 12, wherein each of the divisions comprises a first arched projection and a second arched projection located on the opposite side of the division, each of the arched projections facing the central space, and each of the arched projections is engageable with a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the divisions are drawn toward each other by the adjustable fastener. (Item 19) The coupling according to item 12, further comprising a seal positioned within the central space, wherein the seal supports the section in a relationship sufficiently far apart to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling. (Item 20) The coupling described in item 12, wherein the first angle has an inclination of 45°. (Item 21) The coupling described in item 12, wherein the first angle has an inclination in the range of 30° to 60°. (Item 22) The coupling according to item 12, wherein the second angle is equal to the first angle but has an inclination opposite to that of the first angle. (Item 23) A coupling for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship, wherein the coupling is A first section and a second section, which are attached to each other to their ends, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe element, each of the sections having a first lug extending from its first end, the first lug of the first section being aligned with the first lug of the second section, the first section and the second section, A first adjustable fastener extending between the first lugs and The structure comprises, each of the sections further comprising a second end, the second ends of the sections respectively arranged opposite to the first end, each of the second ends connected to a hinge that joins the first section and the second section together, the hinge defining a hinge axis oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, the first section and the second section pivotable around the hinge axis, and each of the sections, A first working surface positioned between the central space and the first lug, and a first support surface positioned on the first lug, wherein the first fastener is positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, the first working surface is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, and the first support surface is oriented at a first angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener, A first stop surface positioned on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface, wherein the first stop surface is directed at a third angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle and A coupling further comprising the first and second sections being pivoted, thereby adjusting the first fastener to pull the first and second sections toward each other, the engagement between the first stop surfaces on the first lug prevents the sections from rotating toward each other. (Item 24) The coupling according to item 23, wherein the first lug defines a first opening surrounding a first axis positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first fastener. (Item 25) The coupling according to item 24, wherein the first opening extends through the first lug. (Item 26) The first adjustable fastener is the coupling described in item 23, comprising a nut and a bolt. (Item 27) The coupling according to item 23, wherein each of the divisions comprises a first arched projection and a second arched projection located on the opposite side of the division, each of the arched projections facing the central space, and each of the arched projections is engageable within a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the divisions are drawn toward each other by the adjustable fastener. (Item 28) The coupling according to item 23, further comprising a seal positioned within the central space, wherein the seal supports the section in a relationship sufficiently far apart to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling. (Item 29) The coupling described in item 23, wherein the first angle has an inclination of 45°. (Item 30) The coupling described in item 23, wherein the first angle has an inclination in the range of 30° to 60°. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary mechanical coupling according to the present invention, shown in its factory assembled state.

[0018] [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an end view of the coupling shown in Figure 1.

[0019] [Figure 3] Figures 3 and 4 show end views of exemplary couplings in installation. [Figure 4] Figures 3 and 4 show end views of exemplary couplings in installation.

[0020] [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an isometric view of another exemplary mechanical coupling according to the present invention, shown in its factory assembled state.

[0021] [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an end view of the coupling shown in Figure 5.

[0022] [Figure 7] Figures 7 and 8 show end views of an exemplary coupling in installation. [Figure 8] Figures 7 and 8 show end views of an exemplary coupling in installation.

[0023] [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a front view of another exemplary embodiment of the coupling according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] (Detailed explanation) Figure 1 shows an exemplary coupling 10 according to the present invention for joining pipe elements (not shown) in an end-to-end relationship. In this embodiment, the coupling 10 comprises a first section 12 and a second section 14. Sections 12 and 14 are mounted to each other to their ends so as to enclose and define a central space 16 for receiving pipe elements. The coupling 10 is designed to join pipe elements having circumferential grooves at their ends, and therefore each of sections 12 and 14 comprises a first arched projection 18a and a second arched projection 18b (see also Figure 2), also known as "keys," located on opposite sides 20 and 22 of sections 12 and 14. The arched projections 18a and 18b face the central space 16 and are engageable into the circumferential groove in the pipe element when the sections are drawn toward each other to form a joint. A seal 24 is located within the central space 16. The seal 24 is advantageously a ring gasket made from an elastomer such as EPDM, and can support sections 12 and 14 in a distanced relationship as shown, at a distance sufficient to allow insertion of pipe elements into the central space 16 without disassembling the coupling 10. The coupling according to the present invention can also be used with plain end pipes, shouldered pipes, or other formed pipe ends known in the art.

[0025] As further shown in Figure 1, each section 12, 14 includes a first lug 26 extending from its first end 28. A second lug 30 extends from the second end 32 of each section. The first lug 26 and second lug 30 of the first section 12 are aligned with the first lug 26 and second lug 30 of the second section 14, respectively. A first adjustable fastener 34 extends between the first lugs 26 of each section 12 and 14, and a second adjustable fastener 36 extends between the second lugs 30 of each section. In this embodiment, the first adjustable fastener 34 and the second adjustable fastener 36 include a nut 38 and a bolt 40.

[0026] Each section 12 and 14 further comprises a first working surface 42 positioned between the central space 16 and the first lug 26. A first support surface 44 is positioned on the first lug 26 of each section 12 and 14. The first fastener 34 is positioned between the first working surface 42 and the first support surface 44 of sections 12 and 14. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first working surface 42 and the first support surface 44 are oriented transversely at a first angle 46 with respect to the longitudinal axis 48 of the first fastener 34. The first angle 46 can have an inclination in the range of 45° to 70°, with an inclination of 60° being considered advantageous. As shown in Figure 1, a second working surface 50 is positioned on each section 12 and 14 between the central space 16 and the second lug 30. The second support surface 52 is positioned on the second lug 30 of each of sections 12 and 14. The second fastener 36 is positioned between the second working surface 50 and the second support surface 52 of sections 12 and 14. The second working surface 50 and the second support surface 52 are oriented transversely at a second angle 54 with respect to the longitudinal axis 56 of the second fastener 36. The second angle 54 of the second working surface 50 and the second support surface 52 has an inclination opposite to the first angle 46 of the first working surface 42 and the first support surface 44. It is also advantageous if the inclinations of the first angle 46 and the second angle 54 are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign. In the embodiments disclosed herein, the first working surface 42 and the second working surface 50 have the same angular orientation as the first support surface 44 and the second support surface 52, respectively. However, practical designs may also include working surfaces with orientation angles different from those of their adjacent, associated support surfaces.

[0027] At least one first stop surface 58 is positioned on the first lug 26 of each section 12 and 14, adjacent to the first support surface 44. The first stop surface 58 is oriented at a third angle 60 (see Figure 1) which is inclined opposite to the inclination of the first angle 46. At least one second stop surface 62 is positioned on the second lug 30 of each section 12 and 14, adjacent to the second support surface 52. The second stop surface 62 is oriented at a fourth angle 64 which is inclined opposite to the second angle 54.

[0028] Advantageously, the first lug 26 may define a first opening 27 surrounding a first axis 29 located between the first working surface 42 and the first support surface 44, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48 of the first fastener 34. In practical embodiments, the first opening 27 extends through the first lug 26. The bending stiffness of the first lug 26 can be adjusted to a desired value by appropriately sizing the first opening 27. Similarly, the second lug 30 may define a second opening 31 surrounding a second axis 33 located between the second working surface 50 and the second support surface 52, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 56 of the second fastener 36. In practical embodiments, the second opening 31 extends through the second lug 30. The bending stiffness of the second lug 30 can be adjusted to a desired value by appropriately sizing the second opening 31.

[0029] The operation of the coupling 10 will be described with reference to Figures 1-4. Figures 1 and 2 show an exemplary coupling 10 in a factory-assembled configuration, where sections 12 and 14 are supported in a separated relationship on the seal 24 at a sufficient distance from each other to allow a pipe element (not shown) to be inserted into the central space 16. In this factory-assembled embodiment, fasteners 34 and 36 are tightened sufficiently to hold the sections against the seal. The pipe elements are inserted into the central space 16, and their circumferential grooves are aligned with the arched projections 18a and 18b on opposite sides 20 and 22 of sections 12 and 14. Fasteners 34 and 36 are then further tightened to pull sections 12 and 14 toward each other. Figure 3 shows the point in time when the first working surface 42 and the second working surface 50 (42 shown) on sections 12 and 14 engage with each other. Advantageously, the supporting surfaces 44 and 52 (44 shown) on each section engage almost simultaneously. The arched projections 18a and 18b (not visible in the figure) are also engaged with the grooves of the pipe element at this point. During the precise placement of the coupling 10, the engagement of the support surfaces 44 and 52 between sections 12 and 14 provides a first visual indication that precise placement is underway.

[0030] The angular orientation and opposite inclination of the working surfaces 42 and 50 and the support surface 44 on the first end 28 of the section, and the support surface 52 on the second end 30, cause sections 12 and 14 to rotate in opposite directions relative to each other as the fasteners 34 and 36 are further tightened. Figure 1 illustrates the axis of rotation 66 of the section when the pair of working surfaces 42 and the pair of working surfaces 50 on each section engage with each other. The purpose of this rotation is to force the arched projections 18a and 18b to make secure contact with the sidewall and / or floor of the circumferential groove of the pipe element with which they engage, thereby increasing the strength of the joint against bending, axial loads, and torsion. However, it should be noted that the working surfaces 42 and 50 do not have the feature to limit the degree of relative rotation between sections 12 and 14 as the fasteners are tightened. The feature to limit the relative rotation between sections 12 and 14 is provided by the respective stop surfaces 58 and 62 on the lugs 26 and 30. As shown in Figure 4, these stop surfaces (shown as 58) engage as the fastener is further tightened. The geometry of the working surfaces 42 and 50, the support surfaces 44 and 52, and the stop surfaces 58 and 62, their lengths, positions on the sections, and orientation angles work in conjunction with the arcuate projections 18a and 18b so that the projections are effectively locked within the circumferential groove of the pipe element when the first stop surface 58 and the second stop surface 62 engage or nearly engage, respectively, as depicted in Figure 4. Thus, the engagement of both stop surfaces 58 and 62 on the opposite ends of sections 12 and 14 provides visual confirmation that the coupling 10 is properly positioned. The stop surfaces 58 and 62 provide this confirmation over the entire tolerance range imposed on the circumferential groove in the pipe element. At one end of the tolerance range of the groove, sections 12 and 14 rotate around axis 66 to the limit imposed by the respective engagements between the first stop surface 58 and the second stop surface 62. At the other end of the groove's tolerance range, the engagement between one or both projections 18a and 18b and their respective circumferential grooves imposes a restriction on the rotation of the section. When the engagement between the projections 18a and 18b and the grooves restricts the relative rotation of the section, it is assumed that one or both of the first stop surface 58 and the second stop surface 62 will not engage.However, the lugs 26 and 30 at the opposite ends of sections 12 and 14 are designed to deform when the fasteners 34 and 36 are tightened, when a rotational limit imposed by the engagement between the projections 18a and 18b and their circumferential grooves is reached, allowing the stop surfaces 58 and 62 to engage. The deformation is partially controlled by the size of the openings 27 and 29 extending through the lugs 26 and 30. Thus, regardless of where the circumferential grooves in the pipe elements are on the tolerance spectrum, the technician is simply required to tighten the fasteners 34 and 36 at the respective opposite ends 28 and 32 of sections 12 and 14 until the stop surfaces 58 and 62 on the respective lugs 26 and 30 engage. This engagement provides final visual confirmation that the coupling 10 is properly positioned.

[0031] In addition to being easily visually inspectable to confirm proper fit, the coupling 10 according to the present invention is also relatively insensitive to the installation procedure, providing greater ease of assembly. A preferred installation practice is to partially tighten each fastener in a series of alternating steps, but this practice is not necessarily required. Alternatively, the technician may fully fasten one fastener using a power impact wrench, and then fully fasten the other fastener. However, in the case of the coupling 10 according to the present invention, this practice does not result in excessive rotation of the coupling section, which is prevented by the engagement of the stop surface on the side of the fastener that is tightened first. The technician may then apply torque to tighten the other fastener, leading the stop surface on the opposite end of the coupling into engagement, and completing the installation. The geometry of the coupling is such that, as long as both sets of stop surfaces 58 and 62 are in contact, the projections 18a and 18b contact the side walls and / or floor of the grooves and are reliably engaged within their respective circumferential grooves so as to form a robust fit.

[0032] Figures 5-8 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the coupling 70 according to the present invention. The coupling 70 is identical to the coupling 10 described above, except for the orientation of the working surfaces 42 and 50. In the coupling 70, the first working surface 42 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48 of the first fastener 34, and the second working surface 50 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 56 of the second fastener 36. Due to the different orientations of the working surfaces 42 and 50, the coupling sections 12 and 14 do not rotate around the axis 66 in accordance with their engagement when the fasteners 34 and 36 are tightened, guiding the sections toward each other and connecting the pipe elements together. The coupling 70 is advantageous when a more flexible pipe connection is desired. However, when fasteners 34 and 36 are tightened, the friction between the torqued fasteners and their respective lugs tends to rotate the coupling sections relative to each other, thereby causing undesirable engagement between the projections 18a and 18b and the grooves in the pipe element. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, this undesirable effect is mitigated by the engagement between one or both of the stop surfaces 58 and 62 on the lugs 26 and 30, so that the geometric shapes of the support surfaces 44 and 52 and the stop surfaces 58 and 62, as well as their lengths, positions on the sections, and orientation angles, work in conjunction with the arcuate projections 18a and 18b, preventing the projections from becoming trapped in the circumferential grooves of the pipe element when the first stop surface 58 and the second stop surface 62 engage, respectively. The engagement between the stop surfaces and the support surfaces can also serve as a final visual confirmation that the coupling 70 is properly positioned.

[0033] Figure 9 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the coupling 72 according to the present invention. The coupling 72 shares many of the features of the coupling embodiments 10 and 70 described above, but uses a hinge instead of a second lug 30. The second ends 32 of each section 12 and 14 are arranged opposite the first end 28 and connected to a hinge 74 that joins the first and second sections together. The hinge 74 defines a hinge axis 76 oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48 of the first fastener 34. The first section 12 and the second section 14 are pivotable around the hinge axis 76. Adjusting the first fastener 34 causes the first section 12 and the second section 14 to pivot, thereby drawing them toward each other, and the engagement between the first stop surfaces 58 on the first lug 26 (see Figure 8) prevents the sections from rotating relative to each other around the axis 66. In this exemplary embodiment, the hinge 74 comprises bearings 78 (shown) and 80 (hidden) rotatably joined by a hinge pin 82. Other forms of hinge joints are also practical.

[0034] With respect to coupling 70, the first working surface 42 of coupling 74 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48 of the first fastener 34. Due to the perpendicular orientation of the working surface 42, coupling sections 12 and 14 do not rotate relative to each other around the axis 66 in accordance with their engagement when the fastener 34 is tightened, guiding the sections toward each other and connecting the pipe elements together. Similar to coupling 70, coupling 74 is advantageous when a more flexible pipe joint is desired. When the fastener 34 is tightened, friction between the torqued fastener and its respective lugs tends to rotate the coupling sections relative to each other, thereby causing undesirable engagement between the projections 18a and 18b and the grooves in the pipe elements. Similar to coupling 70, and as shown in Figures 7 and 8 (which also illustrate the lugs 26 of coupling 74), this undesirable effect is mitigated by the engagement between one or both of the stop surfaces 58 on the lugs 26, so that the geometry of the support surface 44 and the stop surface 58, their lengths, positions on the section, and orientation angles work in conjunction with the arched projections 18a and 18b, preventing the projections from becoming trapped in the circumferential groove of the pipe element when the first stop surface 58 engages. The engagement of the stop surfaces also prevents undesirable torsional loads on the hinge around an axis perpendicular to the rotation axis 76. The engagement between the stop surface and the support surface can also serve as a final visual confirmation that coupling 74 is properly positioned. The stop surface provides this confirmation over the entire tolerance range imposed on the diameter of the circumferential groove in the pipe element.

[0035] With respect to couplings 10 and 70, the first lug 26 of coupling 74 defines a first opening 27 surrounding a first shaft 29, which is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48 of the first fastener 34. The shaft 48 and the fastener 34 are positioned between the first working surface 42 and the first support surface 44. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first opening 27 extends through the first lug 26. In practical embodiments, the first adjustable fastener 34 may comprise a nut 38 and a bolt 40.

[0036] The coupling according to the present invention is expected to enable the easy and reliable formation of a strong and flexible joint while reducing the coupling's susceptibility to improper installation techniques.

Claims

1. A method for arranging a coupling for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship, wherein the coupling is A first section and a second section, which are attached to each other to their respective ends, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe element, wherein each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end and a second lug extending from its second end, and the first lug and the second lug of the first section are aligned with the first lug and the second lug of the second section, respectively, A first adjustable fastener extending between the first lugs, and a second adjustable fastener extending between the second lugs Equipped with, Each of the above categories is: A first working surface positioned between the central space and the first lug and a first support surface positioned on the first lug, wherein the first adjustable fastener is positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, and the first working surface and the first support surface are oriented at a first angle transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first adjustable fastener, A second working surface positioned between the central space and the second lug and a second support surface positioned on the second lug, wherein the second adjustable fastener is positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, and the second working surface and the second support surface are oriented at a second angle transversely to the longitudinal axis of the second adjustable fastener, the second angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle, A first stop surface positioned on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface, wherein the first stop surface is directed at a third angle having an inclination opposite to the first angle, A second stop surface positioned on the second lug adjacent to the second support surface, wherein the second stop surface is directed at a fourth angle having an inclination opposite to the second angle and Furthermore, The aforementioned method, Tighten the first adjustable fastener until the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other, Subsequently, the second adjustable fastener is tightened until the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Methods that include...

2. The first adjustable fastener is tightened so that the first working surfaces come into contact with each other before the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other, Subsequently, the first adjustable fasteners are tightened so that the first support surfaces come into contact with each other before the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the first adjustable fastener is tightened until the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the second adjustable fastener is tightened so that the second working surfaces come into contact with each other before the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the second adjustable fasteners are tightened so that the second support surfaces come into contact with each other before the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the second adjustable fastener is tightened until the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein each of the first adjustable fastener and the second adjustable fastener comprises a nut and a bolt, and the tightening step comprises applying torque to one of the nut or the bolt.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein each of the divisions comprises a first arched projection and a second arched projection located on the opposite side of the division, each of the arched projections facing the central space, and each of the arched projections is engageable with a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the divisions are drawn toward each other by the adjustable fastener.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising positioning a seal within the central space, wherein the seal supports the section in a relationship sufficiently far apart to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling before the tightening step.

6. A method for arranging a coupling for joining pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship, wherein the coupling is A first section and a second section, which are attached to each other to their respective ends, enclosing a central space for receiving the pipe element, wherein each section comprises a first lug extending from its first end and a second lug extending from its second end, and the first lug and the second lug of the first section are aligned with the first lug and the second lug of the second section, respectively, A first adjustable fastener extending between the first lugs, and a second adjustable fastener extending between the second lugs Equipped with, Each of the above categories is: A first working surface positioned between the central space and the first lug and a first support surface positioned on the first lug, wherein the first adjustable fastener is positioned between the first working surface and the first support surface, A second working surface positioned between the central space and the second lug and a second support surface positioned on the second lug, wherein the second adjustable fastener is positioned between the second working surface and the second support surface, A first stop surface positioned on the first lug adjacent to the first support surface, A second stop surface positioned on the second lug adjacent to the second support surface and Furthermore, The aforementioned method, Tighten the first adjustable fastener until the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other, Subsequently, the second adjustable fastener is tightened until the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Methods that include...

7. The first adjustable fastener is tightened so that the first working surfaces come into contact with each other before the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other, Subsequently, the first adjustable fasteners are tightened so that the first support surfaces come into contact with each other before the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the first adjustable fastener is tightened until the first stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the second adjustable fastener is tightened so that the second working surfaces come into contact with each other before the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the second adjustable fasteners are tightened so that the second support surfaces come into contact with each other before the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. Subsequently, the second adjustable fastener is tightened until the second stop surfaces come into contact with each other. The method according to claim 6, further comprising:

8. The method according to claim 6, wherein each of the first adjustable fastener and the second adjustable fastener comprises a nut and a bolt, and the tightening step comprises applying torque to one of the nut or the bolt.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein each of the divisions comprises a first arched projection and a second arched projection located on the opposite side of the division, each of the arched projections facing the central space, and each of the arched projections is engageable with a circumferential groove in the pipe element when the divisions are drawn toward each other by the adjustable fastener.

10. The method according to claim 6, further comprising positioning a seal within the central space, wherein the seal supports the section in a relationship sufficiently far apart to allow insertion of the pipe element into the central space without disassembling the coupling before the tightening step.

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