Pipe Coupling Segment Layout for Single-Fastener Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of pipe couplings is time-consuming and labor-intensive for a single worker, often requiring multiple workers due to the complexity of aligning and securing coupling segments with fasteners, which can be lost or costly in material and manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring a pair of coupling segments with arcuate portions, hooks, and fastener lugs that allow for easier alignment and secure engagement, reducing the need for multiple fasteners and simplifying the assembly process by using a single fastener to tighten the segments together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe coupling with multiple fasteners is used, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into two separate coupling segments that can be independently positioned on the pipe ends. Each segment has its own fastener opening, allowing them to be aligned and secured separately, which simplifies the assembly process and reduces the time required while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling segments are pre-formed with integrated fastener openings and hook portions during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site fabrication or complex alignment procedures, allowing workers to simply position and secure the segments, thereby reducing assembly time without compromising connection reliability.
2Strength
If multiple fasteners are used to secure coupling segments, then connection strength is improved, but risk of losing fasteners and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener opening is integrated directly into the coupling segment structure itself, merging the fastener retention function with the coupling body. This eliminates separate fastener components that could be lost and reduces material costs while maintaining adequate connection strength through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling segments are designed to be economical single-use components with integrated fastening features. By incorporating the fastener opening directly into the segment rather than using separate reusable fasteners, the design reduces material costs and eliminates the risk of losing expensive fastener components.
3Reliability
If traditional coupling alignment method is used, then secure fitting is achieved, but assembly complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling segments feature asymmetric hook portions with specific geometries that naturally guide alignment during assembly. The hook shape and engagement surfaces are designed to mate in a specific orientation, providing self-alignment that simplifies the assembly process while ensuring accurate and secure fitting without requiring complex alignment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling segment can comprise an arcuate central portion defining a first end, a second end, a first axial side, and a second axial side; a first end portion defining a shank and a bend, the shank extending from the first end of the arcuate central portion proximate the first axial side, the bend extending from the shank towards the second axial side, the bend defining a proximal end coupled to the shank and a distal end distal from the shank, the bend defining an engagement surface and a bottom surface opposite the engagement surface, the bottom surface lying in a plane, wherein the bottom surface faces away from the coupling segment such that the plane does not intersect the coupling segment; and a second end portion extending from the second end of the arcuate central portion, the second end portion defining an opening.