Pipe Coupling Compression Band Segments Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of mechanical pipe couplings is time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the need to disassemble and reassemble multiple piece parts, particularly because the arcuate surfaces require precise alignment and lubrication of a stiff elastomeric seal to accommodate pipe elements.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring a deformable sealing member with circumferentially positioned segments and a compression band, where a tensioning member forces the segments radially inwardly to engage with the pipe elements, eliminating the need for individual piece handling and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the coupling is disassembled and reassembled piece by piece to ensure proper alignment of arcuate surfaces with pipe elements, then the alignment precision is improved, but the installation time and labor effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned around the pipe elements. Each segment has arcuate surfaces that engage with the pipe, allowing the segments to be installed in a sequential manner around the circumference rather than requiring complete disassembly and reassembly, thus reducing installation time while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The segments are pre-configured with connection members and the sealing member is pre-positioned within the annular channel before the segments are assembled around the pipe elements. This preliminary preparation allows for faster installation as the segments can be directly mounted without requiring on-site disassembly and reassembly operations.
2Reliability
If multiple individual piece parts are used to ensure proper sealing and mechanical restraint, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to the need to handle and assemble numerous components
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple segments are combined around the pipe elements to form a complete coupling assembly. The segments work together with the sealing member to provide both mechanical restraint and fluid tight sealing. This merging of multiple components into a coordinated assembly reduces the complexity of handling individual parts while maintaining the reliability benefits of multiple engagement points.
Solution Approach 2:
Each segment serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical restraint through arcuate surfaces, supports the sealing member, and contributes to the overall structural integrity of the coupling. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Strength
If the arcuate surfaces are precisely matched to the pipe element radius to ensure proper engagement, then the mechanical restraint is improved, but the ease of manufacture and installation worsen due to the need for precise geometric matching
Solution Approach 1:
The arcuate surfaces on each segment are designed with specific radius of curvature characteristics that match the local geometry of the pipe elements. For grooved pipe elements, the arcuate surfaces have smaller radii to fit within the grooves, while for plain end pipes, the radii match the outer surface. This localized geometric matching ensures proper engagement and mechanical restraint while allowing for standardized manufacturing of segments for different pipe types.
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
Enables rapid and secure pipe joint assembly without disassembly, reducing installation time and effort by allowing the segments to be positioned and tightened in place around the pipe elements, ensuring a fluid-tight seal under pressure.
Implementation Method 1
a deformable sealing member having an inner diameter sized to receive the pipe elements
Implementation Method 2
The tensioning member is adjustably tightenable for forcing the segments substantially radially inwardly against the sealing member
Implementation Method 3
Engagement between the arcuate surfaces and the pipe elements provides mechanical restraint to the joint
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling for joining pipe elements in end to end relationship is disclosed. The coupling includes a sealing member having an inner diameter and an outer surface. A plurality of segments are supported on the sealing member's outer surface. Each segment has a pair of arcuate surfaces positioned in space relation on either side of the sealing member. A compression band surrounds the outer perimeter of the segments, the segments being captured between the band and the sealing member. The pipe elements are inserted into the inner diameter between the segments. A tensioning member is mounted on the band. Tightening of the tensioning member causes the compression band to force the segments radially inwardly into engagement with outer surfaces of the pipe elements.