Pipe Coupling Segments with Varying Curvature Radii
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of mechanical pipe couplings is time-consuming and requires disassembly and reassembly, and the torque required to tighten fasteners increases significantly as the coupling deforms, making it difficult to use hand tools for large diameter pipes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling assembly with segments having surface regions of varying radii of curvature, allowing initial contact at a midpoint and progressive engagement at opposite ends, minimizing the torque required to deform and secure the coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the coupling segments are tightened to deform and engage the pipe elements, then the mechanical restraint and fluid tight seal are improved, but the torque required to tighten the fasteners increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the radius of curvature along the surface regions of the coupling segments. Specifically, the surface regions have a first radius of curvature at the ends and a second, larger radius of curvature at the midpoint. This geometric parameter variation allows the coupling to engage the pipe elements with reduced deformation resistance, thereby reducing the torque required to tighten fasteners while maintaining adequate mechanical restraint.
2Manufacturing precision
If the coupling is disassembled and reassembled piece-by-piece to ensure proper fit, then the engagement between surface regions and pipe elements is improved, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the coupling segments with specific surface region geometries (varying radii of curvature) that are designed to automatically engage pipe elements with grooves properly when the coupling is tightened. This pre-engineered geometric configuration eliminates the need for technicians to disassemble, inspect, and reassemble components to ensure proper fit, as the coupling is designed to self-align and engage correctly during installation.
3Reliability
If the ring seal is stretched and lubricated to fit around pipe elements, then the fluid tight seal is improved, but the installation difficulty and mess increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by designing the coupling segments with annular channels that receive and contain the ring seals. The seals are nested within these channels in a pre-assembled state, allowing them to be installed as integral parts of the coupling segments. This eliminates the need for technicians to manually stretch and lubricate seals around pipe elements, as the nested configuration allows the seals to be positioned and secured more easily during the coupling installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for joining pipe elements end-to-end using a pair of pipe couplings attached to one another end to end surrounding a central space includes inserting the pipe elements into the central space, moving the coupling segments toward one another and engaging surface regions of the coupling segments with outer surfaces of the pipe elements, initially at a first contact point on the coupling segments and subsequently at second and third contact points on the coupling segments. The first contact point is located between opposite ends of the coupling segments and may be located on a region of infinite radius of curvature, may project radially inwardly toward the pipe elements, and may be located midway between the opposite ends of the segments. The second and third contact points are located at opposite ends of the coupling segments.