Self-Aligning Pipe Coupling for High-Pressure Deep Piling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings for deep concrete pilings are difficult to install safely and efficiently, as they require manual threading in confined and hazardous spaces, and often fail to withstand high fluid pressures necessary for deep piling applications.
Innovation Solution
A self-aligning pipe coupling with a tubular casing and a frusto-conical guide member that minimizes installer input by allowing pipes to be pre-installed and aligned remotely, featuring a tensioning system for secure sealing and high-pressure resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded couplings are used for pipe connection, then the connection can withstand high fluid pressure, but the installation requires manual threading in confined spaces which is hazardous and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe coupling system uses self-aligning features where the coupling body automatically guides and aligns the pipes during insertion, eliminating the need for manual threading operations. The pipes are simply inserted into the coupling body which self-adjusts to achieve proper alignment and connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with a push-fit connection system. Instead of requiring threads to be manually engaged, the pipes are inserted into the coupling body and secured through friction and geometric constraints, eliminating the complex threading mechanism.
2Reliability
If manual threading is required for pipe coupling installation, then secure connection can be achieved, but installer safety is compromised due to hazardous confined space work
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system performs its own alignment and positioning functions without requiring the installer to manually manipulate pipes in confined spaces. The self-aligning features guide the pipes into correct position automatically, making the installation process safe and simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the complex threading operation from the installation process, removing the hazardous manual manipulation requirement while retaining the secure connection capability through the simplified push-fit mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If traditional pipe couplings are used, then installation may be simpler, but they fail to withstand the high fluid pressures (80 bar) required for deep piling applications
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system employs composite construction with a rigid coupling body and flexible sealing elements. The rigid body provides structural strength to withstand 80 bar pressure, while the flexible seals ensure fluid tightness. This composite approach allows simple installation while maintaining high pressure resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling body incorporates curved and tapered surfaces that provide both structural strength for pressure resistance and self-aligning characteristics for simple installation. The geometric features guide pipe insertion while distributing pressure loads effectively.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling for connecting together the ends of two pipes. The pipe coupling including: a tubular casing for fitting around the pipes; a tensioning system for tightening the casing around the outer surface of the pipes; and a guide member, coupled to and extending away from a first axial end of the tubular casing, for radially aligning and guiding one of the pipes into the tubular casing. Further including an assembly having a pipe coupling and a pipe, the pipe coupling being pre-installed on one end of the pipe, and configured to receive a second pipe.