Pipe Coupling Tensioning System Resisting Casing Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings face deformation under fluid pressure, leading to reduced maximum rated fluid pressure, and require additional reinforcing materials and heavy mechanisms to counteract this deformation, making them larger, heavier, and more expensive.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling with a tensioning system comprising pivoting members and a bridge plate that applies a radial force to resist deformation, using a slot and key mechanism to prevent radial movement and translate force into a circumferential force for tightening, reducing complexity, size, and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional reinforcing material and heavy trunnion bar mechanisms are used to counteract casing deformation, then resistance to fluid pressure is improved, but device complexity, weight, and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning system is divided into multiple independent pivoting members (first and second pivoting members) that can independently pivot and apply force. Each pivoting member acts as a separate segment that contributes to the overall resistance against fluid pressure, allowing the system to maintain reliability while reducing the need for complex integrated reinforcing structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting members are designed to dynamically pivot and resiliently bend in response to fluid pressure forces. This dynamic capability allows the tensioning system to actively counteract deformation of the tubular casing under pressure, maintaining sealing force without requiring heavy static reinforcing structures. The pivoting members translate radial forces into circumferential tightening forces as needed.
2Reliability
If additional reinforcing material and heavy mechanisms are used to counteract casing deformation, then resistance to fluid pressure is improved, but weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting members are designed to automatically respond to fluid pressure forces and self-adjust their positioning to maintain optimal sealing force. The system uses the fluid pressure itself to activate the tensioning mechanism, eliminating the need for heavy external reinforcing structures that would otherwise be required to passively resist deformation. The pivoting members self-regulate the tension applied to the sealing gasket based on operating conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a longitudinal gap is provided between free ends of the casing, then adaptability to slightly undersized and oversized pipes is improved, but resistance to fluid pressure deteriorates due to deformation at the gap region
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting members are specifically positioned and designed to concentrate their tensioning force at the critical gap region between the free ends of the tubular casing. This localized application of force ensures that the sealing gasket maintains adequate compression force precisely where the longitudinal gap creates vulnerability to deformation. The slot and key mechanism further localizes the force transmission to ensure effective counteraction of pressure-induced deformation at the gap region.
4Reliability
If the tensioning system uses a slot and key mechanism to prevent radial movement, then resistance to fluid pressure is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slot and key mechanism acts as an intermediary element that simplifies the connection between the first and second pivoting members. Rather than requiring complex rigid linkages or multiple fastening points, the slot and key provide a simple yet effective means of preventing relative radial movement while allowing the necessary pivoting motion. This intermediary mechanism reduces overall system complexity compared to alternative designs that would achieve the same stability.
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 solution enhances resistance to fluid pressure, reduces the coupling's size and weight, simplifies manufacturing and assembly, and eliminates the need for on-site welding, while maintaining equivalent fluid pressure ratings.
Implementation Method 1
the first pivoting member and the second pivoting member resiliently bend about the first free end of the tubular casing and the second free end of the tubular casing respectively
Implementation Method 2
The first pivoting member is provided with a slot having a main axis along the longitudinal direction of the pipe coupling and the projection of the second pivoting member has a key adapted to engage with the slot of the first pivoting member to substantially prevent relative radial movement between the first pivoting member and the second pivoting member
Implementation Method 3
the first pivoting member and the second pivoting member resiliently bend about the first free end of the tubular casing and the second free end of the tubular casing respectively, such that each proximal end of the first pivoting member and the second pivoting member are drawn together to both tighten the casing around the outer surface of the pipe and to apply a radial force to the bridge plate
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(d)
AI summary
The present invention relates to apipe coupling (100) comprising: a tubular casing (102), having a longitudinal gap between a first free end and a second free end; a tensioning system comprising: a first pivoting member (106); a second pivoting member (108) having a projection located at a distal end of the second pivoting member; a bridge plate (114) located inside the casing for spanning the longitudinal gap between the first free end and the second free end of the tubular casing; at least one fastener(110); and means for restraining radially the projection of the second pivoting member relative to the first pivoting member. Upon tightening the fasteners, the first pivoting member and the second pivoting member pivot about the projection, such that each proximal end of the first pivoting member and the second pivoting member are drawn together to both tighten the casing around the outer surface of the pipe and to apply a radial force to the bridge plate.