Quick Disconnect Conduit Joint for Gravity Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit systems for effluent separation devices require complex and time-consuming maintenance processes, particularly for cleaning and pressure testing, due to cumbersome coupling mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A conduit assembly with a snout and saddle configuration that allows for quick and easy removal of conduits from a separation compartment, utilizing a resiliently separable gateway and a lift rod for efficient servicing, along with a secure snap-fit attachment for reassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded coupling mechanism is used to connect conduits to the separation chamber, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the maintenance and removal process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: a coupling body with threaded portion for secure attachment to the separation chamber, and a locking collar that can be independently rotated to engage or disengage. This segmentation allows the conduit to be firmly held during operation while enabling quick removal by simply rotating the locking collar without affecting the threaded connection to the chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking collar is designed to be rotatable relative to both the coupling body and the conduit, transforming a static threaded connection into a dynamic system. The collar can rotate to threadably engage with the coupling body for secure locking during operation, and can be rotated again to disengage for maintenance removal. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between secure connection and easy removal.
2Reliability
If a threaded coupling mechanism is used to connect conduits, then the connection is secure, but the maintenance time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system separates the permanent threaded connection to the separation chamber from the removable connection to the conduit. The locking collar acts as an intermediate element that can be quickly rotated to engage or disengage the conduit, while the threaded portion remains permanently secured to the chamber. This segmentation dramatically reduces maintenance time by eliminating the need to unscrew the entire connection during routine maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking collar is pre-configured to threadably engage with the coupling body, creating a ready-to-lock system. During installation, the conduit is positioned and the collar is rotated into place, establishing a secure connection that can be quickly reversed during maintenance. This preliminary setup enables rapid maintenance operations without compromising connection reliability.
3Ease of repair
If a removable coupling mechanism is used for conduit maintenance, then maintenance access is improved, but the connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking collar can be rotated to transition between engaged and disengaged states. When engaged, the collar provides stable, secure connection through threadable engagement with the coupling body. The same rotational mechanism enables easy disengagement for maintenance. This dynamic design maintains stability during operation while enabling easy repair when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking collar serves as an intermediary element between the conduit and the coupling body. It provides a stable, secure connection when engaged, while its rotatable nature allows it to act as a mediator that can be easily manipulated to disengage the conduit for maintenance. The intermediary collar protects the integrity of both the conduit and the coupling body while enabling controlled removal when required.
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 simplified maintenance and cleaning of conduits by allowing for quick removal and reassembly, reducing maintenance time and effort while maintaining secure fluid communication.
Implementation Method 1
The saddle may include a resiliently separable gateway having two opposing projections configured for receiving therebetween and partially enclosing the duct of the snout
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit assembly of a gravity separation device having specialized joint structure for mating first and second conduits to permit easier removal of the first conduit. The first conduit may include a snout having a tube and a collar positioned at an end of the tube. The collar may include a flange extending outward from a center of the tube. The second conduit may have a main body and a saddle at an end of the main body. The saddle may include a track shaped to receive the flange of the collar of the first conduit. The saddle may also have a resiliently separable gateway comprising two opposing projections configured for receiving therebetween and partially enclosing the tube of the snout.