Trenchless Pipeline Rod Linkage With Arcuate Plug Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linkages for trenchless pipeline rehabilitation face challenges with high assembly effort and reduced service life due to threaded connections, which become cumbersome and prone to jamming when used in powerful linear traction devices, especially under bending moments.
Innovation Solution
A linkage system where sections are connected via a plug-in coupling with arcuate contact surfaces and locking mechanisms, allowing for efficient force distribution and preventing bending moments, featuring transverse openings and webs that maintain contact under tensile and compressive loads, and include locking elements to prevent kinking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded connections are used to connect rod sections, then the linkage can be assembled, but the assembly effort increases significantly and the service life decreases due to jamming and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate male and female components with distinct geometric features (transverse web and transverse opening) that enable quick assembly without threading operations. Each rod section retains its functional integrity while allowing rapid connection and disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The arcuate contact surfaces replace flat threaded interfaces, creating curved mating surfaces that distribute loads more uniformly and prevent stress concentration. The arcuate geometry inherently resists bending moments and eliminates the jamming problem associated with threaded connections.
2Ease of manufacture
If flat contact surfaces are used in plug-in connections, then assembly is simple, but bending moments cause unfavorable stress distribution that reduces service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces flat contact surfaces with arcuate (curved) contact surfaces that conform to each other. This curved geometry allows the connection to accommodate bending moments by distributing stresses along the arc, preventing the unfavorable stress concentration that occurs with flat surfaces under combined loading conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If threaded connections are used, then mechanical release and connection devices can be provided, but the threaded parts must be kept clean to prevent jamming and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses separable male and female components with geometric interlocking features rather than threaded interfaces. This segmentation allows for easy assembly and disconnection without the need for threading operations, and the simple geometric interfaces are less susceptible to contamination and jamming.
Solution Approach 2:
The problematic threaded connection mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler plug-in system using transverse webs and openings. This removes the source of maintenance problems (threaded parts requiring cleaning) while retaining the essential function of mechanical connection and release.
Data Source
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AI summary
The rod (2) has two rod sections, which are connected with each other by a plug connector. One of the two rod sections has a transverse opening at an end. A transverse bar is inserted in the transverse opening at end of the other rod section. Front surfaces of the transverse opening and the transverse bar are formed in curved shape. The front surfaces of the transverse opening and the transverse bar are pressed against each other due to a tensile load of the rod. An independent claim is included for a device for non-grave redevelopment of pipe lines.