Nested Collar Connector for Axial Load Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for fluid conduits in oil and gas extraction systems face challenges in withstanding axial loads and providing sealed connections in limited spaces, while ensuring durability and ease of installation and disconnection.
Innovation Solution
The development of novel connectors featuring a collar with a load ring and locking mechanism, including anti-rotation rods and segmented rings, which secure tubular members in an end-to-end arrangement, allowing for axial movement and easy disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional connectors are used to join fluid conduits, then the connection can withstand axial loads, but the connector profile is large and installation space is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The load ring is nested within the collar structure, with the collar receiving the load ring and the components to be connected. This nesting arrangement allows the connector to maintain strength while reducing overall profile size, as the load-bearing elements are contained within the collar's internal volume rather than extending outward.
2Reliability
If traditional connectors are used to provide sealed connections, then the connection is durable, but the installation and disconnection process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The load ring is pre-installed on one of the components before connection. This preliminary action allows the second component to be quickly coupled to the first by simply engaging with the pre-positioned load ring, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining connection durability through the load ring's load-bearing and sealing functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar is designed to rotate relative to the load ring during the connection process. This rotational movement dynamically transitions the load ring from an initial position to a locked position, enabling quick connection and disconnection while maintaining secure, durable connections through the mechanical engagement of the rotating collar with the load ring.
3Ease of operation
If connectors are designed for quick disconnection, then the operation is easy and fast, but the connection strength and reliability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional components: the collar for engagement and rotation, the load ring for load bearing and sealing, and the keyed connection for locking. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the collar enables easy operation through rotation, while the load ring maintains connection strength, and the key provides reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The load ring acts as an intermediary element between the collar and the components being connected. It receives the axial loads from the connected components and transfers them to the collar, while also providing a interface for the keyed locking mechanism. This intermediary role allows the collar to remain simple for easy operation while the load ring ensures connection strength.
Data Source
AI summary
Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed.