Parabolic Ramp Gasket for Low-Force Pipe Joint Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe coupling technologies, such as push-on joints, face challenges with high insertion forces, misalignment sensitivity, and frictional resistance, especially under high-pressure and temperature conditions, making them difficult to assemble and maintain, particularly in thinner-walled pipes.
Innovation Solution
The use of a conduit with a bell and spigot design featuring a truncated elliptic paraboloid inner surface and a K-type gasket with expansion grooves, which reduces insertion force and accommodates misalignment, allowing for easier assembly and maintaining a seal under pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional push-on joints are used, then sealing is achieved, but insertion force becomes excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
The bell socket is designed with a truncated elliptic paraboloid inner surface instead of a traditional conical shape. This curved geometry reduces the frictional contact area and distributes insertion forces more evenly, significantly lowering the force required to insert the spigot while maintaining effective sealing through the K-type gasket.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the bell socket from a standard cone to a truncated elliptic paraboloid with specific curvature ratios. This parameter optimization allows the joint to achieve sealing with reduced insertion force by altering the contact mechanics between the gasket and pipe surfaces.
2Reliability
If conventional bell and spigot joints are used, then connection is achieved, but misalignment sensitivity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The truncated elliptic paraboloid inner surface of the bell socket provides a self-aligning geometry that guides the spigot into proper position during insertion. The curved surfaces accommodate minor misalignments through elastic deformation of the K-type gasket, reducing the impact of manufacturing tolerances and installation errors on connection security.
3Reliability
If traditional gaskets are used, then sealing is provided, but frictional resistance during insertion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The K-type gasket is designed as a flexible element that can deform elastically during spigot insertion. This flexibility allows the gasket to conform to the truncated elliptic paraboloid surface of the bell socket, reducing frictional resistance while maintaining sealing effectiveness through elastic recovery after insertion.
4Strength
If rigid joint designs are used, then structural strength is achieved, but deflection capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The K-type gasket serves as a flexible element within the joint assembly, allowing the rigid bell and spigot components to deflect relative to each other while maintaining the seal. The gasket's elastic properties enable the joint to accommodate angular and lateral deflections without compromising structural integrity or sealing capability.
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
This configuration significantly reduces insertion forces, enhances deflection capabilities, and ensures consistent engagement of locking segments, maintaining a secure seal even under high pressure and deflection, with minimal frictional resistance.
Implementation Method 1
The gasket is made of an elastomeric material that can deform under compression to create a seal
Implementation Method 2
a K-type gasket with expansion grooves, which reduces insertion force and accommodates misalignment
Data Source
AI summary
Gaskets for use with a bell and spigot coupling system are disclosed herein. The gasket comprises an elastomeric member having a front edge, a first section, and a second section. Axial forces generated by the insertion of the spigot to the first section of the elastomeric member displace the first section of the elastomeric member in an axial and radial direction.