Snap-Lock Pipe Coupling for Watertight Butt Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings struggle to create a watertight joint between rigid, unmovable pipes without disrupting the inner profile, especially in applications like sewage systems, while adhering to code requirements that prevent obstructions to flow.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling system comprising tubular inserts and half-tubular fitting sections that snap-lock together, enveloping the pipe ends and insert, maintaining the inner diameter and providing a watertight seal without requiring movement of the pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sleeve coupling is used to connect pipe ends, then a watertight joint can be achieved, but the inner profile of the pipe is disrupted and flow is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing a tubular insert inside the pipe ends that need to be joined. The insert has an inner surface that maintains the original pipe's inner profile, while the outer surface provides a bonding interface. This nested structure allows the coupling mechanism to exist within the pipe structure without protruding into the flow path, thus achieving watertight connection while preserving flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional external sleeve coupling to an internal insert-based coupling system. By moving the coupling mechanism from the external dimension to the internal dimension (within the pipe wall thickness), the solution eliminates the protrusion into the flow path while maintaining the watertight sealing function through adhesive bonding between the insert and pipe ends.
2Reliability
If pipe sections are moved to install a coupling, then a watertight connection can be made, but the pipes cannot remain fixed in position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the tubular insert within the gap between pipe ends before the pipes are moved into final position. The insert remains in place during pipe installation, allowing the pipes to be moved and secured without disturbing the insert, which then serves as the bonding interface for the adhesive coupling process.
3Reliability
If adhesive is used to seal the joint, then a watertight seal is achieved, but the fitting must protrude into the pipe socket which obstructs flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by containing the adhesive bonding interface within the tubular insert structure. The adhesive is applied between the insert and the pipe ends, and the insert's inner surface maintains the original pipe's inner profile. This nested arrangement allows the adhesive seal to function without protruding into the flow path, as the insert itself serves as the boundary that preserves flow characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling for coupling a first pipe to a second pipe wherein a gap exists between a first pipe end and a second pipe end. The pipe coupling includes a tubular insert configured to fit within the gap and match an inside diameter and outside diameter of the pipes, thereby providing a through-butt joint between the insert and the pipes. The pipe coupling also includes a half-tubular first fitting section and a half-tubular second fitting section, configured to snap-lock and form a tubular shape over the insert, the first pipe end and the second pipe end. In some embodiments, the insert is integral with the fitting sections.