Hooked Pipe Coupling Segmentation for Assembly Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of pipe couplings is time-consuming and labor-intensive for a single worker, often requiring multiple workers due to the complexity of aligning and securing coupling segments with gaskets, and the use of multiple fasteners increases material costs and the risk of lost components.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring arcuate central portions with hooks and stabilizer ribs, allowing for easier alignment and secure engagement of coupling segments with a reduced number of fasteners, and a method for assembling the coupling that involves engaging hooks and fasteners to simplify the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional pipe coupling assembly methods are used with multiple fasteners and unconnected coupling segments, then the coupling can be assembled, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring multiple workers
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into two separate coupling segments that can be assembled independently and then connected together. Each segment can be positioned on the pipe elements separately, and the segments are subsequently joined using hooks and fasteners, enabling a single worker to complete the assembly process more efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling segments are pre-formed with hooks and engagement features that facilitate alignment and connection. The segments are prepared in advance with these connecting mechanisms, allowing for quicker assembly without requiring complex on-site manipulation or multiple workers
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to secure coupling segments, then the connection is secure, but material costs increase and the risk of lost components increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into a single integrated fastener system. The hooks on the coupling segments work together with a reduced number of fasteners to achieve secure connection, eliminating the need for multiple separate fasteners while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The hooks are formed with curved or bent geometries that provide mechanical engagement and locking action. This curved design allows the hooks to engage with corresponding features on the other coupling segment, providing secure connection with fewer fasteners
3Ease of operation
If coupling segments are kept unconnected or loosely connected during assembly, then the segments can be manipulated into alignment, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling segments are pre-formed with hooks and engagement features that guide alignment during assembly. These pre-integrated features automatically align the segments as they are brought together, eliminating the need for complex manual manipulation and reducing assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The hooks serve as intermediary elements that facilitate the connection between coupling segments. The hooks engage with corresponding features on the other segment, providing a mechanical guide that simplifies alignment and reduces the complexity of the assembly process
Data Source
AI summary
A hooked pipe coupling includes a first pipe coupling segment comprising a first arcuate body portion defining a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a first hook extending from the first end, and a first fastener lug extending from the second end, the first arcuate body portion defining a first sloped ledge surface; and a second pipe coupling segment comprising a second arcuate body portion defining a third end and a fourth end opposite the third end, a second hook extending from the third end, and a second fastener lug extending from the fourth end, the second arcuate body portion defining a second sloped ledge surface; wherein the first sloped ledge surface presses against the second sloped ledge surface in a tightened configuration of the hooked pipe coupling to prevent axial movement of the first pipe coupling segment relative to the second pipe coupling segment.