Spring-Biased Pipe Coupling With Single-Fastener Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical pipe couplings require disassembly and reassembly for installation, involving multiple piece parts and significant time and effort, which can be inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design featuring a spring assembly that biases segments away from each other, allowing for pre-assembled installation without disassembly, combined with an adjustable attachment assembly that draws segments into engagement with pipe elements using a single fastener, reducing the need for multiple piece parts and simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical couplings are used with multiple piece parts, then the coupling can provide reliable mechanical restraint and fluid tight seal, but the installation process becomes complex requiring disassembly and reassembly of multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple traditional coupling components (housing, keys, gasket, fasteners) into a single integrated coupling body with built-in spring-loaded clamping mechanisms. The housing includes integrated arcuate surfaces and projection structures that eliminate the need for separate keys and fasteners, reducing the component count from seven+ piece parts to a unified structure that maintains all necessary functions for mechanical restraint and sealing.
2Productivity
If traditional couplings require sequential disassembly and reassembly, then proper engagement of multiple components can be achieved, but significant time and effort are consumed during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is pre-assembled in the factory with all components (housing, spring mechanisms, gaskets, and clamping structures) integrated and positioned correctly. The spring-loaded clamps are pre-configured to automatically engage with the pipe grooves upon installation, eliminating the need for on-site disassembly and reassembly operations. Installation simply requires positioning the pre-assembled coupling over the pipe ends.
3Reliability
If multiple fasteners and complex tightening sequences are used, then secure mechanical connection is achieved, but the installation process becomes more error-prone and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling incorporates spring-loaded clamping mechanisms that automatically self-adjust and self-tighten upon installation. The spring force automatically applies consistent clamping pressure to secure the coupling to the pipe grooves without requiring manual tightening operations. This self-service mechanism eliminates complex tightening sequences and reduces installation errors while maintaining reliable mechanical restraint.
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
This design enhances installation efficiency, reduces errors, and provides a more reliable and stable joint with a lighter, smaller coupling profile, while eliminating the need for complex tightening sequences.
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.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling has first and second segments attached to one another end to end surrounding a central space for receiving pipe elements. A spring assembly attaches the segments at one end and an adjustable attachment assembly attaches the segments at the opposite end. The spring assembly biases the segments away from one another sufficient to permit insertion of the pipe elements into the central space while the segments are attached to one another. The coupling may include a split ring toothed retainer for coupling plain end pipe elements, or it may have arcuate keys which engage grooved or shouldered pipe elements.