Modular Pipe Coupling With Locking Adapter for Pressure-Sealed Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline coupling systems lack flexibility and simplicity in design, often requiring complex connections and materials that do not allow for easy assembly or disassembly, and may not provide sufficient pressure resistance or hydraulic integrity.
Innovation Solution
A modular coupling system comprising base bodies and an adapter piece with circumferential indentations and locking elements, allowing for flexible and non-destructive coupling of pipes, with the adapter piece designed for hydraulic coupling of two pipes through associated base bodies, and featuring a locking mechanism for secure attachment and pressure resistance up to 10 bar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding, soldering or pressing techniques are used to couple pipelines, then hydraulic integrity and pressure resistance are improved, but flexibility and ease of assembly/disassembly deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate modular components: base bodies that connect to pipes and an adapter piece that connects the base bodies. This segmentation allows non-destructive assembly and disassembly while maintaining hydraulic integrity through sealed connections between the modular parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter piece serves as an intermediary component between the base bodies, enabling flexible coupling and non-destructive decoupling while maintaining hydraulic seal. The locking elements act as intermediaries to secure the adapter piece to the base bodies without permanent attachment.
2Reliability
If complex connecting elements and materials are used, then pressure resistance and hydraulic integrity are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the connection function into distinct components (base bodies and adapter piece) with specialized features like circumferential indentations and locking elements. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing of individual parts while achieving complex connection functionality through their interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system utilizes parameter changes in the locking elements (movable between locked and unlocked positions) and the adapter piece (insertable and removable) to achieve secure pressure-resistant connections without complex permanent attachment mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If base bodies are coupled directly to pipes, then connection simplicity is improved, but flexibility and adaptability for different configurations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter piece acts as a mediator between the base bodies, providing adaptability for different pipe configurations, diameters, and installation levels while maintaining simple connection procedures. The adapter piece can be easily inserted and locked without complex alignment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The base bodies are designed with universal features (circumferential indentations, locking surfaces) that work with the adapter piece to accommodate various pipe types and configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same base body design to serve multiple coupling scenarios.
4Reliability
If locking mechanisms are added to prevent accidental disconnection, then reliability and pressure resistance are improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged into the adapter piece design itself, with locking elements that are integral to the coupling structure. This integration provides secure locking functionality without adding separate complex locking devices, maintaining simplicity while ensuring connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to automatically engage with the locking surfaces of the base bodies when the adapter piece is inserted, providing self-locking functionality. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable connection without requiring additional complex locking operations or components.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling system comprising two base bodies, each of which has an aperture for a fluid, an interior predefined circumferential depression and a locking surface (26). An adapter piece (1) comprising an aperture (9) for the fluid has two ends (2, 3) and at least two predefined circumferential depressions (4), which run at least partially along a circumference of the respective ends, wherein the first base body (21) is associated with the first end (2) of the adapter piece (1) and the second base body (21) is associated with the second end (3) of the adapter piece (1), wherein in a state in which they are pushed inside each other the circumferential depression (4, 5) associated with the respective end (2, 3) of the adapter piece (1) and the interior circumferential depression of the respective base body (21) are located opposite of each other and form a receiving space (22). In addition, latching elements are provided to prevent the respective latching element (20) from accidentally sliding out of the associated receiving space (22).