Reversible Ratchet Locking Device for Pipe Couplings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for pipe couplings, especially in applications with vibrations or shaking, can be difficult to use and may cause confusion between screwing resistance and incorrect disengagement, requiring operators to manually push back the coupling component, which is inconvenient, especially in hard-to-reach environments like aeronautics.
Innovation Solution
A reversible ratchet system integrated into the locking device allows relative rotation during unscrewing when a predetermined spring resistance is overcome, enabling secure locking against vibrations without operator intervention, and can be easily adapted to standard pipe couplings by mounting on the nut, allowing complete uncoupling and lateral movement without obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device with a coupling component is used to prevent unscrewing under vibration, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because the operator must manually push back the coupling component
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device automatically returns the coupling component to the locked position using a spring mechanism after the tool is removed, eliminating the need for manual intervention by the operator. The system serves itself by automatically re-engaging the coupling component with the hexagonal formation after unscrewing operations are completed.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-loaded to automatically return the coupling component to the locked position before the operator needs to perform the next operation. This preliminary action ensures the locking mechanism is ready for the next use without requiring manual resetting.
2Reliability
If a locking device is added to standard pipe couplings, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is integrated with the nut by mounting the body on the nut, combining the fastening function and the locking function into a single integrated assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to be compatible with standard pipe couplings without requiring modifications to the basic coupling structure. The same locking mechanism can be applied to various pipe coupling configurations, providing universal anti-vibration protection across different applications.
3Reliability
If the coupling component is kept engaged during unscrewing, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to inability to clear components
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling component is designed to be dynamically movable between a locked position (engaged with the hexagonal formation) and an unlocked position (disengaged for clearance). The spring mechanism enables automatic transition between these states based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function and the clearance function are separated in time through the spring mechanism. The coupling component can be temporarily disengaged during unscrewing operations for clearance, then automatically re-engaged afterward to restore locking stability.
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
The solution simplifies the unscrewing process by eliminating the need for special precautions, ensuring secure locking against vibrations and allowing easy access and movement post-unscrewing, while maintaining compatibility with standard couplings and minimizing production modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (36) bearing on the coupling component (42) and exerting, on the coupling component, a restoring force in the screwed-in direction
Implementation Method 2
the coupling means are of the type with a ratchet allowing relative rotation in the direction of unscrewing when a predetermined spring resistance is overcome
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device (1) is fixed to a nut (4) and includes a coupling unit (42) insertable into a hexagonal configuration (11) of a spigot end (2) at a reduced axial distance being coupled by mutually interpenetrable gears (49, 51) with a stop unit (38) which axially slides in a body (18) opposite to a compression spring (36). The gears (49, 51) are symmetric and are insertable into each other with a predetermined elastic resistance by the action of compression or loosing torque. The device is embodied in one piece which is mounted by assembling with the nut without affecting the spigot ends (2, 3).