Split Pipe Coupler With Interlocking Halves for Damage-Free Repair

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional connectors require cutting and repairing conduits, leading to inferior connections and complexity in replacing broken connectors, as they are not easily removable without damaging the conduit.

Innovation Solution

A split coupler composed of interlocking semi-cylindrical members with spiral threads and a flange, allowing secure connection of conduits without cutting, facilitating easy installation and removal by sliding and rotating the members to align and lock into place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional connectors are used to connect conduits, then the conduits can be securely connected, but the conduits must be cut and repaired which damages them and creates inferior connections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidconduit damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two separate semi-cylindrical members that can be independently positioned around the conduit ends. This segmentation allows the connector to be installed without cutting the conduit, as the semi-cylindrical members can be slipped over the conduit ends and then joined together to form a complete circular connector.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of repair

If conventional connectors are used to replace broken connectors, then connection can be restored, but the process is complex and requires cutting and repairing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector replacement easeVSAvoidreplacement process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two separate semi-cylindrical members that can be independently positioned around the conduit ends. This segmentation allows the connector to be installed without cutting the conduit, as the semi-cylindrical members can be slipped over the conduit ends and then joined together to form a complete circular connector.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interlocking assembly includes movable components that allow the semi-cylindrical members to be easily joined and disconnected. The interlocking mechanism can be engaged and disengaged by simple movements, enabling quick replacement of broken connectors without complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If conventional connectors are installed, then conduits can be connected, but the connectors cannot be easily removed without damaging the conduit

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidremoval ease

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The interlocking assembly includes movable components that allow the semi-cylindrical members to be easily joined and disconnected. The interlocking mechanism can be engaged and disengaged by simple movements, enabling quick replacement of broken connectors without complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11384873B2Split coupler for pipes

Publication Date: 2022.07.12 MIKEYSQUICKCOUPLER LLC

AI summary

A split coupler, and methods of making and using such a split coupler, whereby the split coupler includes a first semi-cylindrical member, a second semi-cylindrical member, and an interlocking assembly configured to interlock the first and second semi-cylindrical members to form a substantially cylindrical coupler having a coupler inner surface which defines a throughbore. Additionally, the split coupler can include spiral threads coupled to the coupler inner surface. Furthermore, the split coupler can include a flange inwardly extending from the coupler inner surface.