Segmented Pipe Union Assembly for Fast Large-ID Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe junction assemblies for large ID pipes require numerous large locking bolts and flanges, leading to inefficiencies in assembly and disassembly, high material weight, and the need for welding and stress relieving for repairs, which occupy space and time.
Innovation Solution
A pipe union assembly featuring a quick union nut, retainer collar, and segmented load ring that securely joins two pipe sections without the need for welding and stress relieving, reducing the number of parts and allowing for faster connection and repair, while maintaining the male end inside the female end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If numerous large locking bolts and flanges are used to join pipe sections, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the assembly time and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The load ring is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned and engaged with the pipe sections. This segmentation allows for faster assembly as the segments can be installed separately and then locked into place, eliminating the need for numerous individual bolts while maintaining connection strength through distributed load bearing across the segmented structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated load ring structure that replaces numerous separate locking bolts. The load ring integrates the functions of multiple fasteners into one component that distributes loads across multiple contact points, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining or improving connection reliability.
2Reliability
If numerous large locking bolts and flanges are used for pipe junctions, then the connection reliability is improved, but the material weight and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented load ring design allows for a more efficient distribution of material where it is most needed - at the load bearing contact points between segments and pipe sections. This eliminates the need for excessive material in non-structural areas while maintaining connection reliability through strategically placed load bearing surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural parameters from numerous thick bolts and large flanges to a thinner, segmented ring structure that achieves equivalent or superior load bearing through geometric optimization. The segmented design allows for more efficient stress distribution, enabling the use of less material while maintaining or improving connection reliability.
3Strength
If traditional flange and bolt assemblies are used, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the number of parts and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate components (flanges, numerous bolts, washers, and other fastening elements) into a single integrated segmented load ring assembly. This consolidation maintains connection strength by distributing loads across multiple contact points while dramatically reducing the total number of discrete parts that must be handled, stored, and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented load ring is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, distributes loads across multiple contact points, seals the joint, and provides alignment features. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components that would otherwise be required to achieve each function individually.
4Strength
If welding and stress relieving are required for pipe repairs, then the repair strength can be sufficient, but the repair time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design of the load ring allows for easy removal and replacement of individual segments without affecting the entire assembly. For repairs, only the damaged segment needs to be removed and replaced, rather than requiring complete disassembly and welding of the entire joint. This modular approach maintains repair strength while dramatically reducing repair time and eliminating the need for welding and stress relieving operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe union assembly that includes a female end of a first pipe section and a male end of a second pipe section. The pipe union assembly also includes a quick union nut securable to the female end, a retainer collar securable to the quick union nut and a segmented load ring disposed between the male end of the second pipe section and the quick union nut. The quick union nut, the retainer collar and the segmented load ring cooperate to maintain the male end of the second pipe section inside the female end of the first pipe section. A method of using the pipe union assembly to join a first pipe section and a second pipe section.