Coupling Device for Circular and Corrugated Pipes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coupling devices for circular pipes require skilled personnel for operation and cannot securely connect corrugated pipes, leading to leakage issues and the need for device or pipe modification for separation.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with paired locking rings and adjustable seal packing for circular pipes, and a corrugated pipe connecting mechanism with threads and compression rings, allowing secure alignment and sealing of both circular and corrugated pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional coupling device with a single locking ring is used, then the structure is simple, but the pipe cannot be securely aligned and sealed properly requiring skilled personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device divides the locking function into two separate locking rings (first locking ring and second locking ring) positioned at different locations. The first locking ring secures the pipe at the initial position while the second locking ring provides additional securing. This segmentation allows unskilled persons to easily operate the device while achieving secure pipe alignment and sealing without requiring complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The packing is pre-installed within the body before the pipe is inserted. The first locking ring is pre-positioned to engage with the pipe. When the pipe is inserted, these pre-positioned elements automatically engage to secure the pipe, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures by skilled personnel and enabling easy operation by anyone
2Reliability
If the packing is simply inserted into the body without adjustment mechanism, then the device structure is simple, but leakage occurs when pipe is not correctly inserted or external force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The packing is designed to be adjustable rather than fixed. The second locking ring can be rotated to apply varying degrees of compression force to the packing, allowing the sealing pressure to be dynamically adjusted based on the specific installation conditions and external forces encountered. This dynamic adjustment ensures reliable sealing without requiring complex pre-engineered spring mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The packing material itself provides the sealing function through its inherent elastic properties. When compressed by the second locking ring, the packing automatically deforms to fill gaps and seal against the pipe and body surfaces. The elastic recovery of the packing material maintains continuous sealing pressure, enabling the sealing system to self-adjust and maintain reliability without complex external control mechanisms
3Ease of repair
If the circular pipe is inserted through the body without external adjustment, then the device structure is simple, but the pipe cannot be separated without breaking the body or cutting the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two independent locking rings that can be independently operated. The first locking ring can be released to allow pipe removal, while the second locking ring remains engaged. This segmentation enables easy separation of the pipe from the coupling device without requiring destruction of the body or cutting of the pipe, while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking rings are pre-configured with engagement features that allow them to be easily released and re-engaged. The threaded structures and engagement geometries are designed beforehand to facilitate simple rotational movements for locking and unlocking, enabling easy pipe separation and reinstallation without complex procedures or damage to components
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling devices are used for corrugated pipes, then the device can be used with standard circular pipes, but corrugated pipes cannot be connected leading to leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate both smooth circular pipes and corrugated pipes. The body and locking rings feature geometric designs that can engage with both pipe types - the locking rings can grip the outer surface of corrugated pipes while the packing can deform to seal against the irregular surface. This multi-functionality enables reliable sealing with different pipe types without requiring separate specialized devices
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
Enables secure coupling and sealing of circular pipes by any user, with adjustable sealing and easy disconnection, and facilitates connection of corrugated pipes, preventing leakage without damaging the device or pipe.
Implementation Method 1
a nut having an entrance hole is engaged with the body so that the packing maintains a seal
Implementation Method 2
the locking ring exerts a locking force on the circular pipe so that it is not separated from the coupling device
Implementation Method 3
the locking ring exerts a locking force on the circular pipe so that it is not separated from the coupling device even if an external force is applied
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device for circular pipes, in which locking rings, inserted into a body to clamp a circular pipe, are arranged in a pair so that the central line of a circular pipe can be aligned when the circular pipe is inserted. Furthermore, the degree to which the body presses the seal packing can be adjusted so that a reliable seal can be maintained and the circular pipe can be securely coupled no matter who uses the coupling device. A coupling device for corrugated and circular pipes is provided for the case where it is more effective to replace one of the circular pipes with a corrugated pipe. The first coupling section and a connecting means, which can engage with a corrugated pipe, are provided opposite the second coupling section, which is coupled with the circular pipe.