Media Line Coupling with Circumferential Locking Arcs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for media-conducting lines lack an efficient and cost-effective solution for creating a quasi-rigid connection that can withstand high temperature and pressure while allowing for minimal deviation compensation during installation and positional changes.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with an outer and inner coupling section, featuring a locking element with locking arc sections that expand circumferentially to lock the inner coupling section in place, providing a secure connection without additional locking elements and allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without tools, using synthetic materials like glass fiber-filled polyamide or metal for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling devices are used for media-conducting lines, then connection stability is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two separate coupling sections (inner and outer), each with specific locking features. The locking element is segmented into multiple locking arc sections that can independently engage with corresponding locking sections, allowing for simplified manufacturing of individual components while achieving stable connection when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking arc sections are combined into a single integrated locking element that fastens to one coupling section and extends between the other coupling section. This merging reduces the total number of separate components needed while maintaining connection stability through distributed locking points
2Strength
If additional locking elements are added to ensure secure connection, then connection strength improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical locking through multiple locking arc sections, allows for tool-free operation through externally accessible actuation, and enables both assembly and disassembly operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms while maintaining strong connections
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be actuated from the exterior of the coupling device, allowing users to perform locking and unlocking operations without requiring disassembly or special tools. The external actuation mechanism enables the system to serve itself for maintenance operations
3Strength
If rigid connection is used to withstand high temperature and pressure, then connection strength improves, but adaptability to positional changes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates dynamic characteristics through the interaction between the locking arc sections and locking sections, which allow for controlled movement and adjustment. The design enables the coupling to accommodate thermal expansion and pressure-induced movements while maintaining secure connection through the elastic deformation capabilities of the locking elements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The coupling device achieves a secure, quasi-rigid connection capable of withstanding high temperature and pressure, compensates for movements during installation, and can be easily assembled and disassembled, ensuring reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
locking element with locking arc sections that expand circumferentially to lock the inner coupling section in place
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device for connecting media-conducting lines has a one-part or multi-part first coupling section and a one-part or multi-part second coupling section. At least one locking element is fastened with at least one connecting section to the first coupling section and is provided with one or more locking arc sections extending in a circumferential direction between the first and second coupling sections. The second coupling section has a locking section extending circumferentially at least partially about a circumference of the second coupling section. At least one of the one or more locking arc sections interacts with the locking section.