Hooked Pipe Coupling Segment for Single-Fastener Assembly
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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 can lead to increased costs and loss of small fastener pieces.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring a pair of coupling segments with arcuate portions, hooks, and stabilizer ribs that facilitate easier alignment and secure engagement, reducing the need for multiple fasteners and simplifying the assembly process by using a single fastener to secure the segments together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional pipe coupling assembly methods are used with multiple fasteners and separate alignment steps, then the coupling can be securely assembled, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring multiple workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fasteners into a single integrated fastening mechanism. The coupling segment includes a first fastener and a second fastener that are structurally integrated, allowing both fastening operations to be performed simultaneously or in sequence by a single worker, thereby reducing labor requirements and assembly time while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling is divided into modular segments with integrated fastening features. Each coupling segment contains built-in fasteners that are pre-positioned and structurally incorporated, enabling simplified assembly where segments are simply connected rather than requiring separate alignment and fastening operations.
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to secure coupling segments, then the connection is more secure, but the cost increases and small fastener pieces are easily lost or dropped
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into integrated fastening structures that are part of the coupling segment itself. The first and second fasteners are incorporated into the coupling segment design, reducing the number of separate small fastener pieces that can be lost while maintaining secure connection through the integrated fastening system.
3Ease of operation
If a single worker attempts to assemble pipe coupling with multiple fasteners, then labor cost is reduced, but the assembly becomes extremely difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple fasteners into the coupling segment structure allows a single worker to perform all fastening operations without needing to handle multiple separate fastener pieces. The integrated design simplifies the assembly sequence and reduces the time required while enabling single-worker operation.
4Reliability
If traditional coupling segments are used requiring alignment and retention of unconnected segments, then proper sealing can be achieved, but the assembly process requires multiple workers to maintain alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is segmented into modular units with integrated fastening features that simplify the assembly process. The segmentation allows for easier handling and alignment of individual segments while maintaining proper gasket sealing through the designed interface geometry and integrated fastening mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling segment includes an arcuate body portion defining a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first axial side, and a second axial side opposite the first axial side; a hook extending from the first end of the arcuate body portion, wherein the hook defines a shank portion and a bend portion, the shank portion extending in a substantially radially outward direction from the arcuate body portion and the bend portion extending in a substantially axial direction from the shank portion, the bend portion defining an upper engagement surface, the upper engagement surface defining a sloped portion angled rearwardly towards the shank portion; and a fastener lug extending from the second end of the arcuate body portion.