Pipe Coupling Grip Elements Tilt for Secure Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings struggle to securely connect circular elements like pipes and flanges under fluid pressure, especially with weaker materials like plastic or thinner metal pipes, as the wedging effect can deform and dislodge the grip elements.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring a clamping ring with an inner annular concave groove and grip elements with convex protrusions that tilt and engage more firmly with the circular element's surface when subjected to axial forces, using retainer and holding means to maintain grip elements in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If wedge-shaped grip elements are used to provide a strong hold against the pipe surface, then the gripping force is improved, but the pipe coupling becomes unreliable when used with weaker circular elements under axial pull
Solution Approach 1:
The grip element is divided into two functional parts: a wedge-shaped gripping portion for generating holding force, and a separate convex protrusion (retention element) for preventing axial dislodgment. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The convex protrusion acts as an intermediary retention element that mediates between the grip element and the clamping ring. It prevents the grip element from being pulled out axially while allowing the wedge-shaped portion to maintain gripping force through friction and normal force.
2Force
If the grip elements are designed to exert strong pressure on the pipe surface, then the gripping force is improved, but the grip elements may be pulled out of the clamping ring under forceful axial pull
Solution Approach 1:
The grip element is segmented into a pressure-exerting wedge-shaped gripping portion and a separate convex protrusion for axial retention. The gripping portion applies normal force to the pipe surface to generate friction, while the convex protrusion engages with the clamping ring to resist axial extraction forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-dimensional gripping approach to a two-dimensional approach by adding the convex protrusion that extends in the axial dimension. This allows the grip element to resist forces in both the radial direction (through the wedge shape) and the axial direction (through the protrusion engagement with the clamping ring).
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a pipe coupling for connecting circular elements. The pipe coupling comprises a clamping ring including an inner annular concave groove and at least one fastening means arranged to contract the clamping ring. The pipe coupling further comprises a plurality of grip elements each having a plurality of gripping protrusions on an inwards facing surface and a convex protrusion on an opposite outwards facing surface. The convex protrusion of the plurality of grip elements is arranged in the inner annular concave groove of the clamping ring so that the plurality of grip elements may tilt in relation to the clamping ring.