Detachable Inner-Layer Pipe Coupling Gasket for Variable Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe coupling systems face challenges in accommodating pipes of varying diameters, as they often require manual adjustment of gasket layers, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when dealing with larger diameters.
Innovation Solution
The proposed conduit coupling assembly features a radial-split arcuate gasket comprising a separate outer and inner gasket layer with radially protruding spokes and circumferentially spaced retaining protrusions, allowing for angular alignment and easy disengagement to accommodate pipes of different diameters by selectively removing the inner gasket layer, thus enabling a wider range of pipe sizes without the need for extensive manual adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-layer gasket with integrally connected layers is used, then the gasket can accommodate smaller diameter pipes, but manual removal of layers is required for larger diameter pipes which increases operation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is divided into separate outer and inner layers that can be independently positioned on the pipe. The inner layer can be removed entirely for larger diameter pipes, while the outer layer remains. This segmentation eliminates the need to manually separate integrally connected layers, simplifying the installation process while maintaining adaptability to different pipe sizes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the inner gasket layer is made removable for larger pipe diameters, then the gasket can accommodate a wider range of pipe sizes, but the structural complexity of the gasket increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inner gasket layer is designed to nest within the outer gasket layer when both are used together for smaller diameter pipes. This nesting arrangement allows the gasket assembly to maintain a compact, integrated appearance while still enabling the inner layer to be removed independently for larger diameter applications, thus managing structural complexity effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer gasket layer is designed to function independently as a complete sealing solution for larger diameter pipes when the inner layer is removed. This multi-functionality allows the same outer layer structure to serve dual purposes: working in combination with the inner layer for smaller pipes and operating alone for larger pipes, thereby reducing the need for entirely different gasket designs.
3Manufacturing precision
If retaining protrusions are added to maintain angular alignment between layers, then the alignment precision improves, but the manufacturing complexity of the gasket increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than adding complex alignment mechanisms across the entire gasket structure, retaining protrusions are added only at specific localized positions on the inner and outer layers. These protrusions engage with corresponding features to maintain angular alignment, providing precision only where needed without significantly complicating the overall manufacturing process.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly having first and second sleeves configured to be tightened to a fluid conduit, a radial-split gasket configured to be positioned between the sleeves and the fluid conduit and having an outer gasket layer and a separate inner gasket layer configured to be selectively disengaged from each other, the outer gasket layer having a radial gap defined by first and second radial side wall gap surfaces, the inner gasket layer having a radial gap and a radial insert configured to be received in the radial gap of the outer gasket layer between the first and second radial side wall gap surfaces.