Split Frame Pipe Machining Coupling Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing split frame pipe machining apparatuses are large, heavy, and difficult to disassemble, with weak parting lines and limited use in environments with low clearance due to their size and structural limitations.

Innovation Solution

A coupling mechanism with adjustable coupling arms, resistance members, and a separation system that allows for controlled separation and reassembly of frame sections, enabling the apparatus to be compact and versatile for machining pipes of various diameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the pipe machining apparatus uses a split frame design to enable disassembly, then the apparatus can be separated into frame sections for transport and storage, but the coupling components may be damaged during separation and assembly operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly and assembly capabilityVSAvoidcoupling component durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into multiple frame sections that can be separated and reassembled. Each frame section has coupling components that interface with adjacent sections, allowing the apparatus to be disassembled for transport and reassembled for use while maintaining structural integrity through the coupling mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism includes features designed to prevent damage during assembly and disassembly operations. The coupling components are structured to guide and protect against misalignment or excessive forces that could cause damage, ensuring reliable operation over multiple assembly cycles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the frame sections are made large to accommodate big diameter pipes, then the machining capability for large pipes is improved, but the apparatus becomes difficult to separate and transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelarge pipe machining capabilityVSAvoidseparation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is segmented into multiple sections that can be separated for transport and reassembled for operation. This allows the apparatus to achieve large overall dimensions when needed while maintaining manageable individual component sizes for easy handling and transport

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the coupling mechanism allows easy separation of frame sections, then transport and storage become simpler, but the structural strength at the parting lines is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation easeVSAvoidparting line strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is segmented with coupling mechanisms at the parting lines that provide both easy separation capability and structural strength when assembled. The coupling components are designed to distribute loads across the joint, maintaining strength while allowing straightforward assembly and disassembly operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2943301B1Coupling mechanism for pipe machining apparatus and pipe machining apparatus with such a coupling mechanism
Publication Date: 2018.06.06 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • EP2943301B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2943301B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2943301B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Pipe machining apparatuses are provided. In one aspect, a pipe machining apparatus includes a coupling mechanism adapted to couple a first section and a second section of the pipe machining apparatus together. The coupling mechanism includes a base defining an aperture therein, an arm adapted to selectively couple the first and second sections together, an engagement member positioned in the aperture in the base, and a separation member movably coupled to the base and adapted to engage the engagement member. The separation member is adapted to move to push against the engagement member and separate the first section and the second section. In another aspect, a coupling mechanism includes an arm adapted to selectively couple the first and second sections together and a resistance member engaging the arm and one of a first section and a second section of the pipe machining apparatus to which the arm is coupled.