Segmented Pipe Coupling With Self-Actuating Retainers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical pipe couplings require disassembly and reassembly during installation, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and lack a mechanism to ensure proper installation of retainers, leading to potential mechanical engagement issues under pressure.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design featuring a spring assembly that biases segments apart for easy insertion of pipe elements, an adjustable attachment mechanism for secure engagement, and a retainer system with angularly oriented teeth and tabs that self-actuate under pressure, ensuring proper alignment and preventing improper assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional mechanical couplings are used with continuous arcuate projections, then mechanical engagement is provided, but the coupling requires disassembly and reassembly during installation which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into multiple segments (first coupling segment, second coupling segment) that can be independently positioned and assembled. Each segment has its own retainer with teeth that engage with the pipe element, allowing the coupling to be assembled in a simplified manner without complete disassembly and reassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainers are pre-positioned on the coupling segments before installation. The teeth on the retainers are pre-oriented to engage with the pipe element groove, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures during installation and reducing assembly time.
2Reliability
If retainers are used with angularly oriented teeth, then self-actuating mechanical engagement is achieved, but improper installation cannot be detected before pressurization
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer includes a visual indicator (such as a colored tab or marker) that changes orientation based on the retainer's position. When the retainer is properly installed, the visual indicator aligns with a corresponding mark on the coupling segment, providing immediate visual confirmation of correct installation without requiring pressurization.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling provides immediate visual feedback during assembly through the aligned marks or indicators on the retainers and coupling segments. This feedback mechanism allows installers to verify proper retainer orientation before pressurization, preventing improper installation and ensuring reliable mechanical engagement.
3Ease of operation
If arcuate projections with matched radius of curvature are used, then engagement with grooved pipe elements is achieved, but the coupling structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer teeth are designed to automatically engage with the groove in the pipe element when the coupling is assembled. The angular orientation of the teeth causes them to be drawn into the groove by the assembly process itself, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms or pre-alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using continuous arcuate projections that must be precisely matched to the pipe element groove radius, the invention uses discrete teeth on retainers that engage with the groove. This inverted approach simplifies the coupling structure while maintaining effective mechanical engagement.
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
Facilitates efficient and reliable pipe element connection with reduced assembly time, enhanced mechanical engagement, and improved resistance to pressure-induced disengagement, while visually confirming proper retainer orientation.
Implementation Method 1
A spring assembly joins a first end of the first segment to a first end of the second segment. The spring assembly biases the segments away from one another.
Implementation Method 2
The teeth are angularly oriented with respect to a radius from the center of the pipe elements. The proper angular orientation allows the teeth to be 'self-actuating', i.e., the mechanical engagement between the teeth and the pipe elements increases with increasing force on the pipe elements trying to draw or push them out of the coupling.
Data Source
AI summary
A preassembled combination connects a captured pipe element to a second pipe element. First and second segments are connected end to end surrounding a central space for axially receiving the second pipe element. The segments are configured to be drawn toward one another and into engagement with the pipe elements. An annular body forms the captured pipe element. An end face of the captured pipe element is retained within the central space by engagement between a bead projecting from a sealing surface of the captured pipe element and the coupling assembly.