Raised-Lip Hose Adapter Coupling for Single-Worker Pipe Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
It is challenging for a single worker to align and secure pipe elements within slip-on couplings efficiently, often requiring multiple workers, which reduces assembly efficiency and increases man-hours in piping systems.
Innovation Solution
A pre-assembled coupling assembly featuring a flexible hose adapter with a raised-lip end piece that retains the coupling in a relaxed position, allowing easy attachment to a pipe and preventing accidental disassembly, combined with a gasket and housing design that secures the coupling when tightened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If slip-on couplings are used to connect pipe elements, then the piping system can be assembled, but it requires multiple workers to align and secure the pipe elements, which reduces assembly efficiency and increases man-hours
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is pre-assembled onto the flexible hose adapter before installation, with the gasket already positioned and secured. This preliminary preparation allows a single worker to simply slide the pre-assembled unit onto the pipe element without needing to manually align and secure multiple components during installation, thereby improving assembly efficiency while maintaining ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible hose adapter configured for engagement with a coupling can comprise an end piece, the end piece defining an inner end and an outer end, the end piece defining an axis, the end piece defining a sealing surface and a raised lip, the raised lip defined between the inner end and the sealing surface; a flexible hose attached to the outer end of the end piece; and a socket end piece attached to the flexible hose opposite from the end piece.