Corrugated Pipe Coupler Integrating Components for Simple Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional couplers for corrugated pipes require complex multi-step processes and risk element loss due to separate handling of components, making them cumbersome and prone to misalignment during coupling.
Innovation Solution
A coupler design where multiple components are integrated into a single assembly, featuring a coupling base with continuous holes, a guide member, compression ring, force-fitting member, and sleeve, allowing the corrugated pipe to be easily coupled by inserting it into the coupler and tightening a cap nut, which compresses and seals the pipe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple components (coupling base, cap nut, sleeve) are handled separately during coupling, then each component can be individually adjusted and positioned, but the coupling process becomes complex and time-consuming with multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the coupling base, cap nut, and sleeve into a single integrated coupler assembly. The coupling base includes integrated features such as the compression hole, insert hole, and guide member all formed as one piece. This merging eliminates the need to handle multiple separate components during coupling, reducing the process to simply inserting the pipe and tightening the cap nut, thereby simplifying the coupling operation while maintaining the necessary functional complexity through integration
2Reliability
If multiple components are handled separately during coupling, then each component can be individually positioned, but there is a high risk of losing components and increasing handling complexity
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the coupling base, cap nut, and sleeve into a single assembly where the sleeve is retained within the coupling base structure and the cap nut threads onto the integrated base, the invention eliminates component loss risks. The unified structure ensures all functional elements remain attached during handling and installation, preventing the loss issues that plague multi-component systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sleeve protrusion is expanded by the peak portion of the corrugated pipe, then the sleeve can be inserted into the valley portion, but the coupling process requires multiple steps and separate component assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve protrusion is pre-formed with expansion capability during manufacturing, and the guide member is pre-positioned within the coupling base to guide the pipe peak portion. When coupling occurs, the pre-designed expansion mechanism automatically engages as the pipe is inserted, eliminating the need for separate expansion steps and enabling rapid single-step coupling while maintaining adaptability to the corrugated pipe geometry
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
Facilitates convenient and secure coupling of corrugated pipes by integrating components into a single body, reducing handling complexity and preventing element loss, while ensuring a tight seal to prevent leakage.
Implementation Method 1
a compression ring having an opening at a predetermined position such that the compression ring is elastically expanded or contracted in diameter
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for a corrugated pipe in which several elements thereof can be handled as a single assembly body, and which can be coupled to the corrugated pipe through a simple process. The coupler includes a coupling base, a guide member, a compression ring, a force-fitting member, a sleeve and a cap nut. A through hole, a compression hole and an insert hole are continuously formed through the coupling base. The guide member is inserted into the insert hole of the coupling base. The compression ring has an opening such that the compression ring is elastically expanded or contracted in diameter. The compression ring is fitted into the insert hole of the coupling base. The force-fitting member is fitted into the insert hole of the coupling base. The sleeve is inserted into the insert hole of the coupling base. A passing hole having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the peak portion of the corrugated pipe is formed through the sleeve. The cap nut has a threaded hole threaded over the coupling base, and a coupling hole fitted over the protruding part of the sleeve.