Quick Coupler Key Extension for Sunken Pipe Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In underground water supply systems, the sinking of water distribution pipes due to soil composition can cause interference with the quick coupler assembly, making it difficult for users to rotate the handle of the quick coupler key, leading to costly replacements of pipes and assemblies.
Innovation Solution
An extension member is designed to couple with a quick coupler key, featuring a first member with male and female threads, a second member with a handle, and a third member with a female thread to accept a male thread on the quick coupler key, allowing for continued use of sunken quick coupler assemblies without the need for repositioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the underground water distribution pipe sinks lower into the ground due to soil composition, then the pipe can be installed at a deeper level, but the sunken hole containing the quick coupler assembly will interfere with the user to turn the handle on the quick coupler key
Solution Approach 1:
The extension member extends the quick coupler key assembly vertically upward from the sunken quick coupler, adding a new dimensional element that reaches above ground level. This allows the user to operate the key from above ground while the quick coupler remains buried, effectively resolving the interference problem caused by ground level sinking.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension member acts as an intermediary between the user and the sunken quick coupler key. It transmits the rotational force from the user's hand (above ground) to the key mechanism (below ground), enabling operation without direct access to the original key handle that is now interfered with by the ground.
2Ease of operation
If the vertically disposed distribution pipe is replaced with a longer distribution pipe to bring the quick coupler assembly flush with the ground level, then the quick coupler assembly can be accessed easily, but the process is costly
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the problem into two separate components: the existing sunken quick coupler assembly that remains in place, and the new extension member that is added on top. This avoids the need to replace the entire pipe system, thereby reducing costs while still achieving accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding and replacing the sunken quick coupler assembly and pipe system, the invention recovers and reuses the existing installed infrastructure. The extension member is added to the existing assembly, allowing continued use of the original components and avoiding the costly replacement process.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an extension member for coupling with a quick coupler key. The extension member includes: a first member; a second member; a handle; and a third member. Methods of using the extension member for coupling with a pipe and a quick coupler key, which is coupled to a quick coupler assembly are also provided.