Pre-tensioning Coupling with Integrated Ratchet Lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for pre-tensioning couplings, such as in the oil and gas industry, require bulky equipment and external access, making them cumbersome and unsuitable for use within sealed compartments, leading to unbalanced loads and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A device with a coupling member and lock portions, including a ratchet mechanism, allows for pre-tensioning within sealed environments by translating the coupling member through ratchet profiles, using a linear actuator for controlled tension application, eliminating the need for external access and bulky equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional bolts or studs with external access are used for pre-tensioning, then the coupling can be restrained, but bulky specialist equipment is required and external access is needed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepre-tensioning operationVSAvoidequipment required

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling member integrates multiple functions: it acts as both the coupling element connecting the two members and the tensioning mechanism. The lock portions are integrated into the coupling member itself, eliminating the need for separate bulky tensioning equipment and simplifying the overall device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling member is initially housed within the first member, and the lock portions are housed within the second member. This nested arrangement allows the tensioning mechanism to be compact and self-contained, eliminating the need for external equipment while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional bolts requiring external access are used, then pre-tensioning can be applied, but they cannot be used inside sealed compartments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealed environment capabilityVSAvoidaccess requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the tensioning function from external bolts and relocates it to integrated lock portions that operate entirely within the sealed compartment. This allows the system to maintain sealed integrity while achieving the necessary pre-tensioning function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling member and lock portions are nested within the sealed compartment structure, with the coupling member initially housed in the first member and lock portions in the second member. This nested configuration enables operation entirely within the sealed environment without requiring external access points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Strength

If coupling is restrained on the opposite side of separation force, then the coupling can be restrained, but a large unbalanced load is created

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling restraintVSAvoidunbalanced load

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of restraining the coupling on the opposite side of the separation force, the invention positions the lock portions on the same side as the separation force. The first lock portion engages the coupling member to prevent movement toward the first member, while the second lock portion applies tension, creating a balanced force distribution that reduces unbalanced loads.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

Facilitates efficient pre-tensioning of couplings without external access, reducing assembly time and enabling use in pressure-sealed environments like subsea applications, with precise tension control and retention of applied force.

Implementation Method 1

a first lock portion including a ratchet and a second lock portion for applying an initial tension to the coupling member, the initial tension retained by the ratchet of the first lock portion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRatchet mechanism: Ratchet

Data Source

PatentUS8857032B2Device and method for pre-tensioning a coupling

Publication Date: 2014.10.14 STATS UKLTD

AI summary

A coupling device provides a pre-tensioned coupling between a first member and a second member. The members are arranged to define a sealed compartment. A piston is housed within the compartment and is translated between the first member and the second member. A first ratchet lock is mounted within the second member and on translation of the piston, the first ratchet lock engages with the piston. A second ratchet is mounted within the second member and, on translation of the piston into the second member, the piston engages with the ratchet. The second ratchet is mounted on a piston, and translation of the second ratchet on the piston applies a tensile force to the first piston to tension or pre-tension the piston. As the ratchets substantially prevent reverse movement of the piston, the tensile force is retained.