Multi-Disc Quick Coupler Geometry for Shorter Bolt Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick couplers require custom-made hexagon socket wrenches due to longer attachment bolts, increasing production costs, as conventional wrenches are not deep enough to tighten nuts effectively.
Innovation Solution
A design method for a multi-disc quick coupler with an axisymmetric clamp structure, utilizing a snap-fit relationship and articulated connectors, allowing for a minimum rotation angle calculation using mathematical functions to reduce bolt length and enable use of conventional wrenches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the attachment bolt length is increased to ensure smooth expansion of the pipe sleeve, then the pipe insertion capability is improved, but the wrench depth requirement increases and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is segmented into multiple arc-shaped discs that can rotate independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the clamp to expand in a controlled manner with smaller individual movements, reducing the required bolt length while maintaining pipe insertion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where arc-shaped discs can rotate during expansion. This dynamic behavior enables the clamp to adapt its shape progressively, achieving smooth pipe insertion with smaller bolt displacement and shorter bolt length.
2Ease of operation
If the attachment bolt length is increased to ensure smooth expansion of the pipe sleeve, then the pipe insertion capability is improved, but the wrench compatibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the clamp into multiple rotating arc-shaped discs reduces the required bolt length, thereby restoring compatibility with conventional wrenches that have limited depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic rotation mechanism allows the clamp to expand progressively, achieving the same functional result with shorter bolts that fit standard wrenches.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the number of arc-shaped discs is increased to improve clamping force distribution, then the clamping uniformity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into multiple arc-shaped discs that distribute clamping force more uniformly around the pipe. While segmentation increases the number of components, each disc is a simple geometric shape, and the overall complexity is managed through the regularity of the segmentation pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The arc-shaped discs are positioned asymmetrically around the clamp perimeter, allowing optimized force distribution at different locations while maintaining structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-fitting pipeline connector includes a multi-disc quick coupler, a sealing ring and a transitional pipe, the multi-disc quick coupler is pre-clamped at an end of the transitional pipe, the sealing ring is clamped in the multi-disc quick coupler, the multi-disc quick coupler includes a clamp, a bolt connector and a articulated connector, the articulated connector or the bolt connector is mounted between adjacent arc-shaped discs to connect the both. The design method therefor includes S1: determining a basic design size; S2: formulating design variables; S3: establishing a Cartesian coordinate system; S4: establishing a polar coordinate system; S5: calculating coordinates after rotation; S6: calculating the minimum value of Δθ; S7: deriving, by the computer, a curve of Δθ with design variables; and S8: designing a connection structure of the transitional pipe and the multi-disc quick coupler.