Dual-Drive Pipe Fitting Fastener for Faster Sealed Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe couplings require multiple tools and significant manual labor for installation, especially in poor environmental conditions, due to the need for adjustable compression and specialty sockets.
Innovation Solution
A pipe fitting with a distinctive hexagonal bolt head and recessed square drive that allows tightening using industry-standard equipment, eliminating the need for sockets and reducing manual labor through a dual drive mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional threaded bolts and nuts are used with socket wrenches for pipe coupling installation, then adjustable compression can be achieved, but the installation process requires significant manual labor, time, and specialty sockets for long movement distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional threaded bolt and nut mechanical system with a cam mechanism. The cam's eccentric geometry converts rotational motion into linear displacement, providing the necessary adjustable compression without requiring long-threaded bolts and nuts. This substitution eliminates the need for specialty sockets and reduces manual labor while maintaining compression adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of compression application by using a cam's rotational position to control the degree of compression. Instead of moving bolts linearly over long distances through threading, the cam mechanism achieves variable compression through angular rotation, fundamentally changing how the compression parameter is adjusted and applied.
2Force
If conventional pipe couplings are designed with long bolt movement requirements, then sufficient compression can be achieved, but specialty sockets and additional tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the long-threaded bolt mechanical system with a cam mechanism that generates compression force through its eccentric geometry. The cam's rotational motion converts to linear force application, achieving sufficient compression without requiring long movement distances or specialty sockets, thereby reducing device complexity and tool requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism utilizes curved, eccentric geometry to convert rotational motion into linear compression force. The curved profile of the cam allows for smooth variation in compression force throughout the rotation cycle, achieving the required compression without straight-line mechanical movement or additional tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parts and tools are used for pipe coupling installation, then functional requirements can be met, but installation time and manual labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into a single integrated cam mechanism. The cam combines the functions of force generation, compression adjustment, and position control that were previously distributed across separate bolts, nuts, and socket tools. This consolidation maintains all necessary functional requirements while significantly improving installation efficiency by reducing the number of parts and tools involved.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it generates compression force, provides adjustable compression levels through rotational positioning, and eliminates the need for specialty sockets. This multi-functionality consolidates what were previously separate tools and components into a single versatile element, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing functional adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe fitting is provided including a sleeve having a generally cylindrical body portion with at least one open end configured to receive at least one pipe; a sealing gasket operatively coupled with the sleeve for engaging at least one pipe end of the at least one pipe; a clamping element operatively coupled with the sleeve for compressing the sealing gasket into tightened engagement with the at least one of the pipe end, the clamping element including one or more flanges; and one or more fastening elements that engages the one or more flanges to tighten the pipe fitting from an uncompressed position to a sealed engagement position with use of industry standard equipment.