Wide-Range Pipe Coupling With Spring Gripper Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings are often difficult to install due to the need for precise bolt tightening and can be incompatible with pipes of varying diameters and standards, leading to leaks and sealing issues.
Innovation Solution
A wide range coupling system featuring a body with a spring-biased gripper mechanism that automatically adjusts to engage and seal pipes of different diameters, using a telescoping end ring mechanism and gasket assemblies that can accommodate a range of sizes and tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe couplings with multiple bolts are used, then reliable sealing can be achieved, but installation becomes time-consuming and difficult due to the need for precise bolt tightening patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex multi-bolt tightening system and replaces it with a single-bolt actuation mechanism that drives a telescoping end ring. This extraction of the complicated bolt pattern requirement while maintaining sealing reliability through the simplified single-bolt operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping end ring mechanism automatically adjusts and positions itself as the single bolt is tightened, eliminating the need for manual positioning or complex tightening patterns. The system self-adjusts to accommodate different pipe diameters and orientations automatically.
2Reliability
If pipe couplings are designed to accommodate narrow range of pipe sizes, then precise sealing can be achieved, but compatibility with different pipe standards and diameters is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The end ring is designed to telescopically expand and contract along the pipe diameter, allowing dynamic adjustment to accommodate different pipe sizes and standards. This dynamic mechanism maintains precise sealing contact while adapting to various pipe dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism changes its physical parameters (end ring diameter) in response to different pipe diameters. The telescoping action allows the end ring to adjust its diameter parameter to match the specific pipe being connected, ensuring compatibility across different standards.
3Reliability
If multiple bolts are used to ensure even pressure distribution, then seal reliability improves, but the complexity of the tightening process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the multi-bolt system and replaces it with a single-bolt actuation mechanism coupled with a telescoping end ring that distributes pressure uniformly along the seal interface, simplifying the device while maintaining reliable pressure distribution.
4Reliability
If traditional couplings are used in limited access areas, then installation may be possible, but access to individual bolts for tightening becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the array of bolts requiring individual access and replaces them with a single accessible bolt that actuates the telescoping mechanism, making installation feasible in confined spaces while maintaining seal integrity.
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
The system simplifies installation by eliminating the need for precise bolt tightening and ensures a reliable seal across a wide range of pipe diameters, including those with manufacturing tolerances and different standards, enhancing compatibility and reducing leakage.
Implementation Method 1
a spring engaging the gripper, the spring biasing the gripper inwards towards the axis
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling includes a body defining a first body end, the body defining a body bore extending into the first body end, the body bore defining an axis; and a joint restraint assembly including a restraint base coupled to the body, the restraint base defining a restraint pocket; a gripper disposed within the restraint pocket, the gripper configured to rotate within the restraint pocket to engage a pipe end of a pipe length when the pipe end is inserted into the body bore; and a spring engaging the gripper, the spring biasing the gripper inwards towards the axis.