Keyed Tubular Connection for Secure, Interchangeable Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for locking tubular members end-to-end, such as keying, result in bespoke pairs that are difficult and time-consuming to replace, as off-the-shelf members cannot be used without additional machining and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A connection system between tubular members that includes a load shoulder member and a nut, with a keyway through the load shoulder member and into the tubular end to receive a key member, allowing for a secure and interchangeable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional keying method is used to lock tubular members together, then the connection becomes secure and rotation is prevented, but the tubular members become bespoke pairs that are difficult and time-consuming to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized coupling system with matching external and internal couplings that can be used across multiple tubular members. The keyway and key member provide universal rotation prevention, while the threaded connections enable interchangeable assembly. This allows any tubular member with a matching coupling to replace another, eliminating the bespoke pair limitation while maintaining secure locked connections.
2Reliability
If conventional keying method is used to lock tubular members together, then rotation is prevented, but additional machining and alignment are required for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming standardized keyways in both the external and internal couplings during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that when tubular members need replacement, the keyways are already aligned and ready to receive the key member, eliminating the need for additional field machining and alignment operations. The standardized design allows replacement to proceed directly through assembly operations.
3Productivity
If off-the-shelf tubular members are used for replacement, then availability is improved, but they cannot be used without additional machining and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables off-the-shelf replacement by creating a universal coupling interface where external couplings and internal couplings are standardized. Any tubular member equipped with these standardized couplings can be replaced without custom machining. The keyway alignment is built into the standardized design, allowing rapid assembly of replacement members from inventory without requiring field fabrication or alignment operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection between a first tubular member and a second tubular member includes a first tubular end, a second tubular end, a load shoulder member threadable onto the first tubular end, and a nut receivable around the first tubular end and the load shoulder member and threadable onto the second tubular end. The connection also includes a keyway disposed axially between the load shoulder member and the second tubular end, wherein the keyway is also disposed through the load shoulder member and into the first tubular end to receive a key member.