Pipe Expansion Coupling with Single-Shoulder Inline Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional restrained pipe joint systems require disassembly and reassembly of entire pipelines for repairs or replacements, which is inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system with a single radially inward protruding shoulder that allows for in-line removal and replacement of pipes without axially moving the pipeline, using retainers and visual indicia for correct insertion and removal guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If conventional restrained pipe joint systems are used, then the pipe assembly can be assembled with removable splines, but the entire pipeline must be axially moved to replace or repair pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling body is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first end for receiving one pipe with a shoulder for axial positioning, and a second end for receiving another pipe without axial contact. This segmentation allows independent pipe replacement at each end without affecting the other pipe or requiring axial movement of the entire pipeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling body exhibits local quality by having different interaction characteristics at each end: one end has a shoulder that axially contacts and positions the pipe, while the other end has no shoulder and does not axially contact the pipe. This local differentiation enables selective pipe replacement without moving the entire pipeline assembly.
2Ease of repair
If the entire pipeline is axially moved to uncouple joints for repair, then the affected portion can be replaced, but the operation becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling body is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first end for receiving one pipe with a shoulder for axial positioning, and a second end for receiving another pipe without axial contact. This segmentation allows independent pipe replacement at each end without affecting the other pipe or requiring axial movement of the entire pipeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The shoulder feature is extracted and positioned only at specific locations within the coupling body, rather than being present throughout. This allows the pipe at one end to be axially positioned and retained, while the pipe at the other end can be freely removed and replaced without extracting or moving the entire pipeline.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple shoulders are present in the coupling, then pipes can be axially positioned at both ends, but the constant inner diameter requirement cannot be satisfied
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling body exhibits local quality by having different interaction characteristics at each end: one end has a shoulder that axially contacts and positions the pipe, while the other end has no shoulder and does not axially contact the pipe. This local differentiation enables selective pipe replacement without moving the entire pipeline assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling can include a coupling body having an axis, an axial length, an axial center, axial ends and an inner surface comprising an inner diameter that is substantially constant over an entirety of the axial length. A single shoulder can protrude radially inward relative to the axis from the inner surface, such that the inner surface has no other shoulders. In a version, the single shoulder is not axially aligned with the axial center of the coupling body.