Conduit Coupling with Glue Channel Lock for Low-Excavation Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit coupling devices for repairing or modifying plastic tubing are difficult to install, require extensive excavation, and result in structurally compromised connections, making them time-consuming and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A new conduit coupling device featuring a hybrid coupler with a partially open end that can be glued to existing tubing, allowing for direct insertion and gluing of one half before fixing the other, along with a cap that forms a strong bond, reducing excavation needs and installation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If specialized couplings with mechanical connectors are used for conduit repair, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation complexity and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two separate components: a coupler that attaches to the conduit and a cap that seals the opening. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the coupler for strong mechanical attachment and the cap for sealing - while simplifying the overall installation process compared to complex integrated mechanical connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical connector systems with a hybrid approach combining adhesive bonding and mechanical interlocking. The coupler uses adhesive to bond to the conduit surface, then the cap provides mechanical sealing, eliminating the need for complex multi-component mechanical fastening systems.
2Ease of operation
If extensive excavation is performed to access damaged tubing, then the repair accessibility is improved, but the loss of time and increase in cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device's segmented design allows it to be installed through a small excavation opening. The coupler can be attached to the exposed conduit end, and the cap can be inserted through the same opening, eliminating the need for extensive digging to access the damaged area.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring large openings to install complex mechanical connectors, the invention inverts the approach by designing a system that can be installed through minimal openings, with components that can be assembled in a compact sequence through the same small access point.
3Reliability
If specialized couplings with complex mechanical connectors are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the coupling device into separate coupler and cap components allows each to be manufactured using simpler, more cost-effective processes. The coupler can be produced as a basic plastic molding with adhesive bonding surfaces, and the cap as a separate sealing component, avoiding the need for expensive multi-material mechanical connector assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the bonding mechanism from complex mechanical interlocking to adhesive bonding, which allows for simpler manufacturing processes. Adhesive bonding surfaces can be created through standard plastic molding techniques, reducing tooling costs and manufacturing complexity compared to precision-machined mechanical connectors.
4Loss of time
If couplings are designed to be installed through minimal excavation, then the installation time is reduced, but the connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device uses composite construction combining plastic materials with adhesive bonding. The coupler is made of plastic that can be molded into complex shapes for optimal bonding surface area, while the adhesive provides additional bonding strength, creating a composite connection system that achieves high strength through chemical bonding rather than mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler features a curved, arcuate shape that conforms to the cylindrical conduit surface, maximizing the bonding contact area. This curved geometry allows the adhesive to distribute stress evenly across the bonding surface, maintaining connection strength while enabling installation through small openings.
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 faster, cheaper, and more robust conduit repairs and modifications with less excavation required, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective installation process.
Implementation Method 1
adhering the first end to the first conduit; adhering the second end to the second conduit
Implementation Method 2
The glue ridge is dimensioned to slidably be received in the glue channel... forming a locked engagement between the first and second conduits
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit coupling device is provided for enabling a conduit coupling system and method. The conduit coupling device has two portions, a coupler and a cap, that adhere, respectively, to two separate conduits being coupled together. The coupler has a first tubular end and a second end that provides an arcuate cutout. The coupler provides a glue channel along the arcuate cutout. The inner surfaces of two ends engage outer surfaces of the two separate conduits, respectively. The cap is dimensioned and adapted to adhere to a portion of the outer surface of the second arcuate cutout conduit so as to provide a glue ridge there along. The glue ridge is dimensioned to be slidably received in the glue channel, thereby forming a locked engagement between the first and second conduits.