Irrigation Saddle Annular Seal With Pressure-Activated O-Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation pipe couplers require significant axial force to maintain a leak-free seal between the saddle and riser adapter, making installation and removal difficult without tools.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupler with a saddle featuring an internal annular face without internal threading, combined with a dynamic seal within a circumferential channel of the riser adapter, allows for a leak-free seal without the need for high axial force, facilitating easier installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded connection with transverse sealing face is used between saddle and riser adapter, then a leak-free seal can be achieved, but significant axial force is required making installation and removal difficult without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection with a snap-fit mechanism featuring radial engagement lugs that engage with corresponding slots in the saddle. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for threads and axial threading forces, allowing tool-free installation and removal while maintaining a reliable seal through the radial engagement geometry
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using axial threading forces to create the seal (traditional approach), the patent inverts the sealing mechanism by using radial engagement forces. The sealing face is positioned radially rather than axially, and the seal is created through radial compression of the sealing element between the riser adapter flange and saddle, rather than through axial threading pressure
2Reliability
If significant axial force is applied to maintain seal between saddle and riser adapter, then leakage is prevented, but the connection becomes difficult to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the force direction by using radial engagement forces instead of axial threading forces. The engagement lugs on the riser adapter engage radially with slots in the saddle, creating sealing pressure through radial compression of the sealing element rather than through axial force application during threading
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional axial threading mechanism that requires high force is replaced with a low-force radial snap-fit mechanism. The engagement lugs provide sufficient radial holding force and sealing pressure without requiring the high axial forces needed for threaded connections, enabling tool-free operation
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 provides a reliable, leak-free seal that is easier to install and remove, reducing the need for tools and improving the efficiency of irrigation system maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
water flow through the circular mount into the riser adapter causes the O-ring to seal against said annular sealing face, preventing water flow between the annular sealing face and the riser
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupler having a saddle for connecting to a riser adapter for use in an irrigation system to distribute water. A dynamic seal is positioned in a circumferential channel of the riser adapter on the outer surface of a flange or projection that is positioned into the circular mount of the saddle. In response to water pressure against the dynamic seal, the dynamic seals the connection between the riser adapter and the saddle by sealing against the annular sealing face on the inner circumference of a circular mount of the saddle. The dynamic seal is an O-ring in preferred embodiments.