Pipeline Coupling Arrangement With Integrated Locking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline coupling arrangements are either complex, expensive, or inadequate for providing a quasi-rigid connection that can compensate for movements and temperature changes without requiring separate sleeves or rubber elements.
Innovation Solution
A coupling arrangement featuring two coupling sections and a locking element that engages between them, eliminating the need for a separate sleeve or union nut, with a ball section formed directly from the component, and a wedge ring locking element that compensates for lateral movements and provides a pressure-tight connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate pipe sleeve or union nut is used to fix the connection between coupling sections, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated directly into one of the coupling sections (either male or female), eliminating the need for separate pipe sleeves or union nuts. The locking element forms an integral part of the coupling section, reducing the number of components while maintaining connection reliability through the interlocking locking contours.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling section is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the structural connection interface, incorporates the locking mechanism, and enables both rigid and quasi-rigid connection modes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components like union nuts or pipe sleeves.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex rubber elements are used to compensate for movements during assembly or temperature changes, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arrangement enables dynamic adjustment between rigid and quasi-rigid connection modes. The locking element can engage in different positions along the locking contour, allowing the connection to adapt to movements and temperature changes without requiring complex rubber elements. The system transitions from a fixed rigid connection to a flexible quasi-rigid connection based on operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking contour is designed with varying geometric parameters that allow the locking element to engage at different positions. This enables the connection to accommodate dimensional changes due to temperature or assembly variations by engaging the locking element at appropriate locations along the contour, eliminating the need for rubber compensation elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a ball connection with part-spherical parts and screw caps is used, then the movement compensation capability is improved, but the device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from traditional ball connections, such as separate part-spherical components and screw caps. The locking element is integrated directly into the coupling section, simplifying the structure while retaining the ability to compensate for movements through the designed locking contour geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element automatically engages with the locking contour without requiring manual adjustment or additional fastening operations. The design allows the connection to self-adjust and lock into position, eliminating the need for screw caps or complex assembly procedures while maintaining movement compensation capability.
4Strength
If circumferential welding beads and locking elements with multiple interruptions are used, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing precision and assembly ease worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The locking contour is segmented into distinct engagement zones along its length, allowing the locking element to engage at specific predetermined positions. This segmentation provides tolerance compensation while maintaining connection strength, as the locking element can engage at any suitable position along the segmented contour without requiring high precision throughout the entire circumference.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a coupling arrangement (10) for pipelines, with a female coupling section (20) and a male coupling section (40) as well as a locking element (60) which at least in regions engages between the coupling sections (20, 40) and is secured on a coupling section (20), one of the coupling sections (20) comprising a locking contour (34) which cooperates with a locking contour (64) of the locking element (60), and the locking element (60) having a blocking section (62) which cooperates with a blocking section (52) of the other coupling section (40) such that a lateral movement between the coupling sections (20, 40) can be restricted.