Rotatable Pipe Coupling Sleeve for Tool-Free Release Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-fit pipe couplings face challenges in tight spaces due to the need for separate release tools, complexity in installation, and susceptibility to accidental release caused by thermal expansion and vibration.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling with a rotatable sleeve and release collar that allows for axial movement to disengage the gripping element, providing a simple and secure connection without extra steps, and tactile feedback for locked/unlocked positions to prevent accidental release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate release tool is used to disengage the gripping element, then the pipe coupling can be released, but it requires additional space to operate and the tool can get lost
Solution Approach 1:
The release function is merged with the pipe coupling body itself. The rotatable sleeve is integrated into the coupling body and contains the release mechanism, eliminating the need for a separate release tool. The gripping element is disengaged by rotating the sleeve, which directly actuates the release mechanism within the coupling body.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe coupling performs its own release function through the integrated rotatable sleeve mechanism. The coupling body contains all necessary components (gripping element, release mechanism, rotatable sleeve) to release the pipe without requiring external tools or assistance.
2Reliability
If an end cap is screwed on to lock the pipe in place, then the pipe is secured, but the installation complexity increases and accidental unscrewing can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the rotatable sleeve mechanism. The same sleeve that controls the release mechanism also provides the locking function through its rotational position. When the sleeve is rotated to a specific position, it engages with the coupling body to lock the gripping element in place, eliminating the need for a separate end cap.
Solution Approach 2:
The end cap component is extracted from the system. Instead of using a separate end cap to lock the pipe, the locking function is achieved through the rotatable sleeve's engagement with the coupling body, simplifying the overall structure and reducing the number of components.
3Device complexity
If the gripping element is held in place by friction alone, then the structure is simple, but accidental release can occur due to thermal expansion and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping element's position is dynamically controlled by the rotatable sleeve. Instead of relying on static friction alone, the sleeve can be rotated to actively engage or disengage the gripping element. This dynamic control mechanism ensures reliable holding during normal operation while allowing intentional release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable sleeve acts as an intermediary between the user's rotational input and the gripping element's engagement state. The sleeve transmits the rotational motion to the release mechanism, providing controlled and reliable engagement/disengagement of the gripping element without direct manual manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling (100) for receiving, holding and releasing a pipe, comprising a coupling body (110) having a bore (B) with a geometric axis (A) into which a pipe can be inserted in a pipe insertion direction (P); a rotatable sleeve (170) which is arranged at least partially around the coupling body (110) and which is rotatable around the axis of the bore with respect to the coupling body (110); a gripping element (140) configured to engage a surface of the pipe; a pipe release element (160) configured to disengage the gripping element (140) from the surface of the pipe upon axial movement of the pipe release element (160); and a release collar (180) coupled to an end of the rotatable sleeve (170). Axial rotation of the rotatable sleeve (170) in a first direction causes the release collar (180) to move axially from a locked position to an unlocked position and wherein in the unlocked position, the release collar (180) can be moved axially in a pipe insertion direction (P) to cause the pipe release element (160) to disengage the gripping element (140) from the surface of the pipe.