Pipe End Coupling with Radial Locking for Fast Tri-Clamp Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tri-clamps for connecting line ends are difficult to open and close, especially when frequent cleaning is required, and handling becomes cumbersome when toxic substances are involved, necessitating additional secondary interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a support ring and a blocking device that allows for easy connection and disconnection of line ends by introducing the second end into a reception opening and adjusting a blocking member between open and closed positions, facilitated by a blocking device that can be screwed onto the support ring and features a blocking member that applies an axial closing force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tri-clamps are used to connect line ends, then a standardized connection is achieved, but the connection device becomes difficult and time-consuming to open and close
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into distinct functional segments: a support ring that remains fixed on the first line end, and a blocking device that can be independently attached and detached. This segmentation allows the blocking device to be quickly operated without affecting the support ring, significantly reducing the time and effort required to open and close the connection while maintaining standardized connection capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If tri-clamps are used for connecting line ends, then connection functionality is provided, but handling becomes cumbersome when secondary interfaces are required for toxic substances
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device can be nested onto the support ring, forming a compact integrated structure when closed. The blocking member is nested within the blocking device, and the entire assembly fits around the line ends. This nesting arrangement allows the connection device to maintain a compact form factor while incorporating all necessary components, including the capability to interface with secondary interfaces for toxic substance handling, without increasing operational complexity.
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 simple and fast connection and disconnection of line ends, even by a single person, reducing time effort and minimizing the risk of toxic substance leakage.
Implementation Method 1
at least one blocking member that is movably supported in the radial direction in the support ring and/or in the blocking device; wherein the blocking member is adjustable by means of the blocking device between an open position in which the second front face can be brought into contact with the first front face and a closed position in which the blocking member applies an axially acting closing force to the second back face so that the second front face is pressed against the first front face
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting device for connecting a first pipe end to a second pipe end includes a support ring made to abut the first rear face and a locking device releasably connected to the support ring. The support ring or the locking device in the assembled state projects axially above the first end face and forms a receiving opening into which the second widened portion can be introduced. A locking member is movably mounted in the support ring and/or in the locking device in the radial direction. The locking member is adjustable by the locking device between an open position, in which the second end face can be made to abut the first end face, and a closed position, in which the locking member applies an axially acting clamping force to the second rear face, so that the second end face is pressed against the first end face.