Wave-Shaped Pipe Coupler Seal for Low-Force Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection methods, such as gluing, welding, and conventional couplers with internal seals, require high insertion and extraction forces, often necessitating lubrication and chamfering, which complicates the installation process and can lead to inefficiencies and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A coupler design featuring a flexible sealing lip in a wave shape around the circumference, allowing for reduced insertion and extraction forces, combined with a rigid inner surface and optional clamping mechanism, to facilitate easier and more efficient pipe connections without the need for lubrication or precise cutting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional coupler with an internal seal is used, then a sealing connection is formed, but high insertion and extraction forces are required
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing lip is divided into multiple independent sealing elements arranged around the circumference, each capable of deforming independently. This segmentation allows the sealing force to be distributed across multiple points rather than concentrated in one location, reducing the overall insertion and extraction forces required while maintaining reliable sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing lip is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to deform elastically during insertion and extraction. The sealing elements can compress during insertion to facilitate entry, then expand to maintain sealing pressure, and compress again during extraction. This dynamic behavior reduces the force requirements compared to a rigid seal.
2Ease of operation
If high insertion forces are used, then the pipe can be inserted into the coupler, but lubrication and chamfering are required
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing lip design enables the coupler to facilitate its own insertion process without requiring external aids like lubrication or chamfering. The elastic deformation of the sealing elements creates a self-lubricating effect during insertion, and the distributed sealing pressure prevents edge concentration that would require chamfering. This self-service capability eliminates additional preparation steps.
3Strength
If a rigid seal is used, then the sealing connection is strong, but the seal is vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing lip is constructed from flexible material that can deform elastically under load. This flexibility allows the seal to accommodate misalignments, surface irregularities, and thermal expansion without damaging the sealing elements. The flexible nature distributes stress evenly, preventing the concentration forces that lead to seal failure in rigid designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic properties of the sealing material provide built-in cushioning against impact loads and sudden force spikes during installation and operation. This beforehand cushioning protects the sealing elements from damage by absorbing energy through elastic deformation rather than transmitting it to the seal structure.
4Reliability
If the sealing lip is located close to the pipe end, then sealing is effective, but insertion forces increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the sealing lip into multiple elements, the sealing function is maintained even when positioned optimally away from the pipe end. Each segment independently contacts the pipe surface, ensuring effective sealing without requiring the entire sealing lip to be positioned at the extreme end where insertion forces would be maximized.
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 wave-shaped sealing lip reduces installation forces, eliminates the need for chamfering, and protects the seal from damage, resulting in faster, more reliable, and sound-reducing pipe connections that can withstand higher pressure loads.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing lip extends in a wave shape around the at least part of the circumference... allows for reduced insertion and extraction forces
Implementation Method 2
The sealing lip extends in a wave shape around the at least part of the circumference... eliminates the need for chamfering
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A coupler comprises a first end for receiving a pipe section and a second end, and a sealing system comprising a sealing lip extending around a circumference of the coupler. The sealing lip extends in a wave shape around the at least part of the circumference.