Pre-Assembled Pipe Coupling for Leak-Tight Manual Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling systems require complex assembly and deformation of segments to secure pipe ends, which can be cumbersome and prone to leaks due to inadequate sealing.
Innovation Solution
A pre-assembled pipe coupling with a housing and gasket that includes manually manipulatable segments and attachment mechanisms, allowing for easy insertion and secure sealing of pipe ends without the need for segment deformation, using a combination of clenchable fasteners and interlocks to form a fluid-tight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pipe coupling systems use complex assembly procedures with segment deformation, then pipe ends can be secured, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and prone to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is pre-assembled within the housing before the coupling is installed on the pipe ends. The gasket is positioned in the correct orientation and location within the housing, and the housing segments are pre-connected with fasteners. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for complex deformation operations during installation, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining sealing reliability through proper gasket positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is divided into multiple segments that can be manually manipulated and assembled separately. These segments are connected using fasteners and interlocks, allowing the coupling to be assembled in a straightforward manner without requiring deformation of the segments themselves. This segmentation enables easier assembly while maintaining structural integrity and sealing performance.
2Ease of manufacture
If pipe coupling systems require segment deformation to secure pipe ends, then connection can be achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket and housing segments are pre-assembled in the correct configuration before installation. The gasket is positioned within the housing with its sealing surfaces properly oriented, and the housing segments are pre-connected using fasteners and interlocks. This preliminary assembly simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for complex deformation operations during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling design allows the housing segments to self-align and connect through manually manipulatable interlocks and fasteners. The segments are designed to fit together without requiring external tools or complex deformation procedures, enabling workers to assemble the coupling through straightforward manual operations.
3Reliability
If traditional couplings use inadequate sealing mechanisms, then assembly may be simple, but leaks occur due to poor sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is pre-positioned within the housing in the correct orientation and location before the coupling is installed on the pipe ends. This preliminary positioning ensures that the sealing surfaces are properly aligned with the pipe ends, guaranteeing effective sealing while maintaining simple assembly procedures. The gasket remains in its predetermined position throughout assembly, eliminating the need for complex deformation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The gasket is designed with specific local features including sealing lips on the side flanges and a central flange with sealing surfaces. These localized sealing features are positioned at critical contact points with the pipe ends to ensure effective sealing. The housing segments also have localized engagement features that apply pressure uniformly to maintain gasket sealing effectiveness without requiring complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A pre-assembled pipe coupling includes a gasket, a housing surrounding the gasket, and a fastener. The housing has three segments sequentially coupled to each other to define an insertion boundary. A first segment includes a first mount extending lateral in a first direction from the wall and having a plurality of first lateral walls that define a first aperture, and a second mount extending laterally in a second direction from the wall, the second mount having a plurality of second lateral walls that define a second aperture. A second segment includes a first hook disposed in the first aperture and a first tab defining a first fastener aperture. A third segment includes a second hook disposed in the second aperture and a second tab defining a second fastener aperture. The fastener is disposed through the first fastener aperture and the second fastener aperture.