Pre-Assembled Pipe Coupling With Cap for Single-Worker Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
It is difficult for a single worker to align and secure pipe elements within a coupling while tightening, often requiring multiple workers and increasing assembly time in piping systems.
Innovation Solution
A pre-assembled coupling assembly with a coupling and cap design featuring ridges, a gasket with sealing ridges and central ribs, and a cap with a pressure relief channel, allowing for easy alignment and secure attachment of pipe elements without the need for multiple workers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple workers are used to align and secure pipe elements within a coupling, then the alignment and securing process can be completed, but the assembly time increases and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is designed with preliminary alignment features including a tapered bore that guides the pipe element into proper alignment, and pre-positioned gaskets that are already secured within the coupling body. These preliminary actions eliminate the need for multiple workers to manually align components during assembly, allowing a single worker to quickly insert and secure the pipe element.
2Reliability
If multiple workers are used to tighten the coupling, then the coupling can be securely fastened, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling integrates multiple functions into a single component: the tapered bore provides alignment guidance, the pre-positioned gasket provides sealing, and the external threading provides secure fastening. By merging these functions into one integrated coupling assembly, the patent eliminates the need for multiple workers and complex assembly procedures while maintaining reliable securing of pipe elements.
3Productivity
If a single worker attempts to align and secure pipe elements within a coupling, then labor requirements are reduced, but it becomes difficult to properly align and secure the elements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is designed to be self-aligning through its tapered bore geometry, which automatically guides the pipe element into the correct position during insertion. The pre-positioned gaskets are self-retaining within the coupling body, eliminating the need for additional workers to hold or position components. This self-service design enables a single worker to efficiently complete the assembly task.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe fitting is disclosed that can be configured for engagement with a coupling. The coupling can include a first ridge and a second ridge opposite the first ridge, and can define a coupling bore extending from the first ridge to the second ridge. A cap can extend into the coupling bore of the coupling. A gasket can be positioned within the coupling and can include: a first sealing ridge disposed proximate the first ridge; a second sealing ridge disposed proximate the second ridge opposite the first ridge; and a central ridge defining a pair of ribs extending radially inward from the central ridge.