Adjustable Flange Coupling Chain for Variable Pipe Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices, such as flange clamps, are limited to specific sizes and cannot effectively tighten flanges of varying sizes, making them inflexible for application to pipes with different diameters.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device featuring a chain assembly with pivotally connected connecting pieces and a positioning mechanism, allowing for adjustable tension and fit around flanges of different sizes, utilizing a chain-like structure with reel-shaped pivot members and a detachable hook mechanism for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flange clamp with fixed semicircular bodies is used, then the clamping force is sufficient for a specific flange size, but the clamp cannot be applied to flanges of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp body is divided into multiple adjustable segments or components that can be reconfigured to match different flange sizes. This segmentation allows the same clamp structure to adapt to various dimensions while maintaining adequate clamping force through proper arrangement of the segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the semicircular bodies to be repositioned or reconfigured based on the flange size. This dynamic capability enables the clamp to maintain sufficient clamping force across different flange dimensions without requiring multiple fixed-size clamps.
2Strength
If irreversible fixing means such as welding or adhesion are used, then the connection strength is high, but the pipes cannot be separated when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing mechanism transitions from a static irreversible connection to a dynamic reversible connection. The clamp allows for strong fixation during operation but can be easily released when separation is needed, providing both high connection strength and ease of operation throughout the service cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design allows for temporary discarding of the fixed state (by releasing the clamp) and recovery of the pipe assembly (for separation or reconfiguration). This enables the system to achieve strong connection when needed while maintaining the capability for easy separation when required.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides a reliable and easy-to-adjust solution for securely coupling flanges of various sizes, ensuring a tight fit and effective fixation, while being adaptable to different diameters.
Implementation Method 1
a chain assembly, including a plurality of connecting pieces and a plurality of pivot members, the plurality of connecting pieces being pivotally connected one by one by the plurality of pivot members
Implementation Method 2
the first portion being rotatable between a release position and a fixed position with respect to the second portion, wherein when the first portion is in the fixed position, the first direction being parallel to the second direction
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device for coupling flanges of two pipes includes a chain assembly and a positioning mechanism. The chain assembly includes plural connecting pieces pivotally connected one by one by pivot members. The connecting pieces at two opposite ends of the chain assembly are defined as a first connecting piece and a second connecting piece. A first pivot member is arranged at the free end of the first connecting piece, and a second pivot member is arranged at the free end of the second connecting piece. The positioning mechanism includes a first portion and a second portion pivotally connected. The first portion is pivotally connected to the first pivot member or the first connecting piece, and the second portion is detachably positioned to the second pivot member. The first portion is rotatable between a release position and a fixed position relative to the second portion.