Pre-Assembled Pipe Coupling With Raised Lip for Single-Worker Assembly
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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 efficiency and increases assembly time in piping systems.
Innovation Solution
A pre-assembled coupling assembly with a raised-lip pipe fitting and a gasket system, where the coupling is retained on the pipe fitting in a relaxed position, allowing for easy alignment and secure attachment without the need for multiple workers, using a raised lip and gasket configuration that prevents accidental disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If slip-on couplings are used to connect pipe elements, then the piping system can be assembled with simple coupling structure, but it requires multiple workers to align and secure the pipe elements efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is pre-assembled and pre-positioned on the pipe fitting before the actual piping assembly takes place. This preliminary positioning of the coupling with the gasket already in place eliminates the need for multiple workers to simultaneously hold and align pipe elements during tightening, as the coupling structure is already prepared and positioned correctly.
2Reliability
If multiple workers cooperate to couple pipe elements together, then proper alignment and secure attachment can be achieved, but assembly time and labor hours increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing through its pre-assembled configuration. The raised lip on the pipe fitting engages with the gasket in a manner that automatically positions the coupling correctly without requiring multiple workers to manually align components, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing assembly time.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional coupling assembly methods are used, then standard procedures can be followed, but accidental disassembly cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The raised lip feature on the pipe fitting creates a mechanical interference fit with the gasket that prevents accidental disassembly. This preliminary design feature built into the coupling assembly provides inherent resistance against unintended separation, ensuring connection stability without complicating the assembly procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler configured for engagement with a coupling, the sprinkler includes a raised lip end, the sprinkler defining a raised lip at the raised lip end; and a deflector end disposed opposite from the raised lip end, the sprinkler defining a groove between the raised lip and the deflector end.