Compression Coupler Assembly With Anti-Twist Inner Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression couplers for conduits require multiple parts and lack repeatability and reliability in coupling two conduits together efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A compression coupler assembly comprising a first and second compression nut and an inner sleeve with specific geometrical features such as inwardly sloped flanges, longitudinal slits, tongues, grooves, and stops, which allow for secure and repeatable engagement of conduits by compressing the outer surface when the nuts are threaded together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional compression couplers use multiple parts, then they can achieve coupling of conduits, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple traditional compression coupler components into a single integrated assembly consisting of an outer sleeve, inner sleeve, and compression element. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining the coupling function, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner sleeve is divided into multiple segments separated by longitudinal slits, allowing it to compress radially when the outer sleeve is tightened. This segmentation enables the single-piece design to achieve the compression function that traditionally required multiple separate components, improving reliability while reducing part count.
2Reliability
If compression couplers use simple designs, then manufacturing is easier, but repeatability and reliability of coupling are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The compression element features localized compression zones with specific geometries designed to engage with the segmented inner sleeve at critical locations. This local quality approach ensures repeatable coupling by concentrating compression forces at precise points, achieving high reliability without requiring complex overall design.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner sleeve segments are pre-configured with expansion capabilities, and the compression element is pre-shaped to induce controlled radial compression. This preliminary action ensures that when assembled, the components automatically achieve the correct compressed state, providing repeatable coupling results without complex manufacturing processes.
3Strength
If the inner sleeve is rigid, then it provides structural support, but it cannot compress to secure the conduits firmly
Solution Approach 1:
The inner sleeve transitions from a rigid state during assembly to a dynamically compressible state during operation. The longitudinal slits enable the sleeve to change its radial dimensions under compression while maintaining longitudinal structural integrity, allowing it to both support the conduit structure and compress to secure the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner sleeve is designed as a thin-walled structure with longitudinal slits that provide flexibility in the radial direction while maintaining strength in the longitudinal direction. This flexible shell design allows the sleeve to compress uniformly when the outer sleeve is tightened, securing the conduits firmly while retaining structural support capabilities.
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 quick and reliable coupling of conduits with fewer parts, ensuring secure attachment and preventing twisting of the inner sleeve through the sliding action of tongues and flanges, enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability of the coupling process.
Implementation Method 1
Each inwardly slopped flange configured to deflect inwardly as the first compression nut and the second compression nut are threaded together after contacting the inwardly slopped flanges
Implementation Method 2
The tongue is configured to slide in the groove when the first and second compression nuts are threaded together after contacting the inwardly slopped flanges
Implementation Method 3
a first compression nut, a second compression nut threadably attached to the first compression nut and an inner sleeve configured to be captured between the first compression nut and the second compression nut when threaded together
Data Source
AI summary
A compression coupler assembly including a first compression nut, a second compression nut threadably attached to the first compression nut and an inner sleeve configured to be captured between the first compression nut and the second compression nut when threaded together. The inner sleeve including a tubular-shaped body with a longitudinal slit extending through a wall of the body between opposite ends of the body. An inwardly slopped flange is formed at each end. Each inwardly slopped flange configured to deflect inwardly as the first compression nut and the second compression nut are threaded to a predetermined position. At least one stop protrudes inwardly from an inner wall of the inner sleeve.