Monolithic Fluid Conduit Connector for Fast Reliable Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid conduit systems used in the oil and gas industry for temporary applications face challenges in achieving robust, reliable, and rapid assembly and disassembly, particularly in environments where conduits are repeatedly connected and disconnected.
Innovation Solution
A fluid conduit connector system featuring a monolithic body with strategically positioned holes and throughbores, allowing for alignment and secure connection via connection rods, which facilitates quick assembly and disassembly while maintaining mechanical integrity, and is designed to meet standards such as API, ANSI, and ASME specifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded connections or bolted flanged connections are used to connect fluid conduits, then the connection is robust and reliable, but the assembly and disassembly process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct components: a body portion with internal threading, an external threading portion, and a separate coupling mechanism. This segmentation allows for rapid attachment while maintaining connection integrity through the internal-external thread interface.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using external threading on both connectors (conventional approach), the invention uses internal threading in the body portion and external threading on the opposite end. This inversion allows the connector to be both male and female, enabling rapid coupling with standard conduits while maintaining robust connections.
2Strength
If multiple flanged connections and bolts are used to secure fluid conduits, then the mechanical integrity is maintained, but the overall structure becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single connector body: the coupling mechanism, the threading interface, and the sealing surface are all integrated into one component. This eliminates the need for separate flanges and multiple bolts, reducing overall weight while maintaining mechanical integrity through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with universal applicability, featuring both internal and external threading that can connect to various conduit types and sizes. The single connector body performs multiple functions (coupling, sealing, and structural support) that would traditionally require multiple separate components, thereby reducing weight.
3Reliability
If traditional flanged connections with multiple bolts are used, then the connection is secure, but the device complexity and number of parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into functional zones (internal threading zone, external threading zone, coupling zone) within a single body, reducing the number of separate parts while maintaining connection security through specialized internal structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple connection functions (sealing, securing, and structural attachment) are merged into the single connector body, eliminating the need for separate flanges, multiple bolts, and washers. The internal-external thread interface provides both security and structural integrity in one integrated component.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid conduit connector includes a monolithic body having a first opening at a first side and a second opening at a second side. A throughbore extends from the first opening to the second opening. A first array of holes in the first side is positioned around the first opening, each hole of the first array of holes terminating within the body. A second array of holes in the first side is positioned around the first array of holes, each hole of the second array of holes extending through the body to the second side.