Unitary Annular Pipe Coupler for Fluid-Tight Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe coupling systems face challenges in forming a fluid-tight seal between corrugated pipe sections, particularly due to high friction forces and deflection of the bell or outer pipe during spigot insertion, leading to potential leaks and structural weaknesses under fluid pressure.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling assembly featuring a unitary annular body with undulating medial portions and longitudinal extensions, including locking arrangements and elastomeric sealing members, which securely attach to pipe sections without requiring special geometrical end configurations like bells and spigots, providing a flexible and strong connection that resists separation and deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spigot and bell configuration with elastomeric gasket is used to form a fluid-tight seal between pipe sections, then a sealing connection is achieved, but large friction force is encountered during insertion and the bell deflects away from the gasket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupler assembly as an intermediary device that connects two pipe sections. The coupler includes a first elastomeric sealing member that contacts the first pipe section and a second elastomeric sealing member that contacts the second pipe section, eliminating the need for direct spigot-bell engagement and reducing friction forces during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into three distinct components: the first pipe section, the coupler assembly, and the second pipe section. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the coupler bearing the sealing function rather than requiring complex end configurations on the pipe sections themselves.
2Reliability
If a spigot and bell configuration with elastomeric gasket is used to form a fluid-tight seal, then a sealing connection is achieved, but the bell deflects away from the gasket during insertion creating weak points
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly serves as a mediator that distributes mechanical stresses away from the pipe ends. The rigid body of the coupler with integrally formed locking arrangements provides structural support, preventing the deflection and weakening that occurs in traditional bell-end configurations during and after installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arrangements are pre-formed as integral parts of the coupler body, establishing strong mechanical connections to both pipe sections before any operational stresses are applied. This preliminary structural reinforcement prevents subsequent deflection and maintains structural integrity under load.
3Reliability
If special geometrical end configurations (bells and spigots) are required for pipe connection, then a fluid-tight seal can be formed, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complexity of special end configurations is eliminated by segmenting the sealing function into a separate coupler assembly. The pipe sections can have simple, uniform cross-sections while the coupler contains all the geometric complexity needed for sealing and locking, simplifying pipe manufacturing and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the fluid-tight seal through elastomeric members, creates mechanical locking through integrally formed locking arrangements, and distributes structural loads. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for complex specialized end configurations on the pipe sections themselves.
4Ease of operation
If traditional pipe coupling methods are used, then connection is achieved, but flexibility in installation location and repair capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly is designed with flexible elastomeric sealing members that can adapt to various installation conditions and pipe surface irregularities. The locking arrangements can engage with pipe sections at different locations, providing both installation flexibility and reliable mechanical retention under operational stresses.
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 solution enables a reliable fluid-tight seal across any length of pipe, reducing costs associated with specialized end configurations and gaskets, while allowing for flexible attachment at any location, including repairs, and maintaining structural integrity under pressure.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second elastomeric sealing members deforming upon engagement by the locking arrangements
Implementation Method 2
the locking arrangements engaging the pipe sections and deforming the first and second elastomeric sealing members
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler assembly for use with a pipe or piping sections comprising a unitary annular body, forming first and second cylindrical openings for surrounding a pipe or piping sections to facilitate forming a fluid-tight seal therein. The unitary annular body comprises a medial portion and first and second longitudinal portions integrally connected to opposite ends of the medial portion. Extending from the first and second longitudinal portions away from the medial portion are respective first and second locking arrangements for securing the coupler assembly to a pipe or piping sections.