Pre-Assembled Coupling Cap With Retained Ring for Solo Pipe Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling systems require multiple workers to align and secure pipe elements, reducing efficiency and increasing assembly time due to the difficulty in aligning and tightening couplings with a single worker.
Innovation Solution
A pre-assembled coupling assembly with a cap and coupling design, where the cap has an annular ring with a raised lip and web, allowing for easy alignment and retention of the coupling on the pipe fitting, enabling single-handed assembly and secure connection without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple workers cooperate to align and secure pipe elements within the coupling, then the alignment and securing of pipe elements can be achieved, but the assembly efficiency is reduced and man hours increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is pre-assembled with the cap and gasket before installation on the pipe elements. The cap is inserted into the coupling bore and the gasket is positioned around the cap, so that when the coupling is installed, the alignment and securing functions are already prepared, requiring only single-worker operation to complete the assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly is divided into separate functional components: the coupling body, the cap, and the gasket. This segmentation allows each component to be prepared independently and assembled in a predetermined sequence, simplifying the installation process and enabling single-worker operation
2Device complexity
If the coupling is designed without pre-assembly of cap and gasket, then the coupling structure is simpler, but the risk of part misplacement and assembly errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap, gasket, and coupling body are merged into a single pre-assembled unit. The cap is inserted into the coupling bore and the gasket is positioned around the cap, creating a integrated assembly that reduces the risk of part misplacement during installation while maintaining relatively simple individual component structures
Data Source
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AI summary
A cap configured for engagement with a coupling can comprise an annular ring extending circumferentially around an outer portion of the cap, the cap defining an inner end and an outer end disposed opposite from the inner end, the annular ring defining a sealing surface between the inner end and the outer end, the annular ring defining a raised lip at the inner end, the raised lip extending radially outward from the sealing surface; and a web, the web enclosing the annular ring.