Pipe Coupling Encapsulation With Segmented Elastomeric Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling seals are ineffective in sealing the axial length of pipe joints, as they lack elastomeric coverage over the entire length, which limits their ability to effectively seal leaks in pipes and joints without interrupting flow.
Innovation Solution
An elastomeric ring with annular pipe interface portions extending from an intermediate annular portion, radially positioned within a repair coupling band, ensures complete axial sealing by abutting edges when clamp members are tightened, aided by a keeper element for maintaining contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If seals are placed only at the ends of the assembly, then the device complexity is reduced, but the sealing effectiveness along the axial length is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric seal is divided into multiple segments: end seals positioned at opposite axial ends and an intermediate seal extending along the axial length between them. This segmentation allows comprehensive sealing coverage while maintaining modular installation and positioning advantages.
2Reliability
If the elastomeric seal edges overlap, then the sealing coverage is increased, but the seal may deform or fail to properly abut against the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
A keeper element is introduced as an intermediary component between the intermediate seal and the band. This keeper element prevents excessive radial movement of the intermediate seal, ensuring that its edges abut accurately against the pipe surface without overlapping or deform
3Adaptability or versatility
If the seal assembly is designed to fit over existing bell-shaped joints, then the adaptability is improved, but the internal space for the seal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seal assembly utilizes the radial dimension effectively by positioning the elastomeric seal radially inward from the band, allowing the seal to accommodate bell-shaped joints while maintaining sufficient internal space. The multi-segment configuration optimizes space utilization in the limited radial envelope.
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 comprehensive seal along the axial length of the pipe coupling, effectively sealing leaks without interrupting flow, even under vacuum conditions, and accommodating various pipe diameters and joint types.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric ring including two elastomeric annular pipe interface portions that extend from two opposite axial ends of an elastomeric intermediate annular portion
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A pipe coupling encapsulation assembly (10) includes an elastomeric ring (12) including two elastomeric annular pipe interface portions (14) that extend from two opposite axial ends of an elastomeric intermediate annular portion (16). The elastomeric annular pipe interface portions (14) have a smaller annular radius than an annular radius of the elastomeric intermediate annular portion (16). Each of the elastomeric annular pipe interface portions (14) and the elastomeric intermediate annular portion (16) includes edges (18) that face each other when the elastomeric ring (12) is placed around a pipe. A repair coupling (20) includes a band (22) and opposing clamp members (24) extending outwards from ends of the band (22), the elastomeric ring (12) being radially inwards of the band (22).