Pipe Coupling Insert and Snap-Lock Fittings for Watertight Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling methods fail to provide a watertight connection without moving rigid pipe sections, while maintaining the inner profile of the pipe, especially in applications like sewer systems where flow disruption must be prevented.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling system comprising a tubular insert and half-tubular fitting sections that fit together to form a tubular section, allowing the insert to align with the pipe ends and envelop them, providing a watertight seal without altering the pipe's inner profile, and accommodating gaps between pipe ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional sleeve coupling is used to connect pipe ends, then a watertight joint can be achieved, but the pipe sections must be moved and the inner profile of the pipe is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a nested structure where an inner tubular coupling is placed inside an outer tubular coupling. The inner coupling fits within the gap between pipe ends and is surrounded by the outer coupling, creating a multi-layered nested arrangement that achieves watertight sealing without requiring pipe movement while maintaining the inner profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is divided into separate functional segments: an inner tubular coupling that provides the primary seal within the gap, and an outer tubular coupling that provides additional sealing and structural support. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving reliable watertight connection without disrupting the pipe's inner profile.
2Reliability
If a sleeve coupling is installed on one end of a new pipe section, then a watertight joint is achieved, but the second end cannot be coupled because it abuts the existing pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a single-dimension approach (one coupling per pipe end) to a multi-dimensional solution by placing couplings at both ends of the gap simultaneously. The inner and outer tubular couplings create a multi-layered dimensional structure that allows watertight connections at both pipe ends without interference, enabling versatile coupling capability.
3Strength
If fittings or connections are added to connect pipe sections, then structural integrity is improved, but flow obstruction occurs violating code requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device applies local quality by concentrating the sealing and connection functions in specific localized areas (the inner and outer tubular couplings at the gap) rather than adding bulk fittings along the pipe. This localized approach provides structural integrity at the joint while maintaining the smooth inner profile of the pipe throughout the flow path, preventing flow obstruction and complying with code requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling for coupling a first pipe to a second pipe wherein a gap exists between a first pipe end and a second pipe end. The pipe coupling includes a tubular insert configured to fit within the gap and match an inside diameter and outside diameter of the pipes, thereby providing a through-butt joint between the insert and the pipes. The pipe coupling also includes a half-tubular first fitting section and a half-tubular second fitting section, configured to snap-lock and form a tubular shape over the insert, the first pipe end and the second pipe end. In some embodiments, the insert is integral with the fitting sections.