Pipe Coupling With Remote Handling for Confined-Space Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings require personnel to enter confined spaces, such as shafts, for installation and removal, which is time-consuming and costly, and do not allow for quick and simple connection or disconnection of fittings.
Innovation Solution
A quick-action pipe coupling design with a fixed and loose part, allowing connection and disconnection from above ground, featuring a handleable loose part with a handling connection, guide elements, and locking mechanisms to maintain the connection securely without axial insertion, enabling operation from a distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pipe couplings are used, then secure connection is achieved, but personnel entry into shafts is required which increases time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from axial insertion (traditional pipe coupling) to transverse shearing movement. The loose part moves essentially perpendicular to the center axis of the pipe socket, enabling operation from above ground level without personnel entry into confined shaft spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
A handle is introduced as an intermediary tool to enable remote operation of the coupling mechanism. The handle allows personnel to operate the coupling from above ground level, transmitting force through the handling connection to the loose part without requiring direct access to the coupling point.
2Reliability
If locking mechanisms are added to secure the connection, then connection reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into two independent parts: a fixed part and a loose part. Each part has simplified geometry, with the loose part featuring a handling connection and the fixed part having guide elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide elements on the fixed part and handling connection on the loose part work together to automatically guide the loose part into the correct position during shearing movement. The geometry of these elements provides self-alignment and ensures proper engagement without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention proposes a pipe coupling (1) comprising a first coupling element, designated as a fixed part (2), which has a pipe stub (4), and a second coupling element, which is optionally connectable to the fixed part (2) and designated as a loose part (3), and which also has a pipe stub (4), wherein the two coupling elements have cooperating retaining elements such that the loose part (3) is optionally held in a retaining position on the fixed part (2) and the two pipe stubs (4) together form a pipe section, and wherein the two coupling elements have cooperating sealing surfaces (6) such that the loose part (3) is media-tight against the fixed part (2) in the retaining position, and with a stop (14) limiting the relative movement between the fixed part (2) and the loose part (3) transversely to the central axis of the pipe section, and wherein the loose part (3) has a handling connection (10) which is intended toto create an optionally detachable connection with a handle holding and guiding the loose part (3).