Rigid Pipe Coupling Support for Dissimilar Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings fail to adequately support joints between pipes of differing diameters or materials due to insufficient resistance against shear and tension forces, leading to frequent failures and costly repairs.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling support with a substantially rigid body that closely mates with the exterior surface of the pipe coupling, featuring recesses for clamp structures and compression apparatus to enhance engagement and provide additional support, including a support sleeve and pliable inner member configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible or pliable pipe coupling body is used to join dissimilar pipes, then the coupling can accommodate different pipe diameters and materials, but the joint cannot adequately resist shear and tension forces when ground settles or buildings move
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining a flexible coupling body (pliable material) with a rigid support structure (metallic or rigid material). The flexible body accommodates different pipe diameters and materials, while the rigid support structure provides the necessary strength to resist shear and tension forces from ground settlement and building movement.
2Strength
If reinforced couplings with stainless steel support sleeves are used, then some resistance to shear and tension forces is provided, but adequate support against large forces from building settlement is still not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the coupling system into distinct functional segments: a flexible coupling body for sealing and accommodation, a rigid support structure for force resistance, and compression apparatus for securing the components together. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its specific function, achieving both adaptability and strength.
3Reliability
If the entire joint is encased in concrete to stabilize it, then the joint becomes stable against settlement forces, but the joint is no longer accessible for service needs and requires expensive excavation for repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid support structure acts as an intermediary between the flexible coupling body and the pipes, providing the necessary structural support without requiring permanent encasement in concrete. This intermediate structure maintains joint stability while preserving accessibility for service and repair operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling support having a substantially rigid body with an inner surface formed to mate with at least a portion of the exterior surface of a pipe coupling installed on pipe. In many cases, the exterior surface of the installed pipe coupling will be non-cylindrical. For example, when pipes of differing diameters or pipes manufactured from different materials must be joined with commonly available pliable couplings. In this instance the inner surface of the body of the pipe coupling support may be formed to mate with a majority of or substantially the entire exterior surface of the installed pipe coupling.