Split Ring Joint Restraint for Pipe Fittings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint restraints for pipe fittings require numerous parts and complex assembly, making it difficult to inspect and ensure proper coupling, especially in underground systems where thrust forces can cause fittings to detach.
Innovation Solution
A compact joint restraint system using a shell with engaging arms and a clamp ring that transfers axial thrust forces between the pipe and fitting, requiring only two main components and a single bolt for assembly, allowing for easy visual inspection and modular compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional joint restraint systems with multiple parts are used, then thrust force resistance is achieved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (bell, semi-circular elements, retainer ring, bolts) into a single integrated joint restraint structure that includes a body with engagement features and a separate restraint element that secures to the pipe, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining thrust force resistance capability
Solution Approach 2:
The joint restraint structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it resists thrust forces, secures the pipe to the fitting, and provides structural support, thereby eliminating the need for separate thrust blocks or additional securing mechanisms
2Strength
If multiple parts are used in joint restraint, then thrust force resistance is achieved, but ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple functions into fewer components, the assembly process is simplified from installing multiple separate parts to installing a unified joint restraint structure that requires fewer assembly steps and less on-site work
3Strength
If complex joint restraint assembly is used, then thrust force resistance is achieved, but inspection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint restraint is designed with distinct segmented components including a body portion and a restraint element that can be visually distinguished, allowing inspectors to easily verify proper installation and coupling of each component
4Strength
If traditional joint restraint systems are used, then thrust force resistance is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple functions into fewer components reduces manufacturing complexity and material requirements, leading to lower production costs compared to traditional systems that require separate thrust blocks, multiple securing elements, and complex assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A joint restraint includes a split ring terminating in radially outwardly extending flanges. A shell includes a cylindrical sleeve, an annular flange at one end and arms projecting generally tangentially for securement behind lugs on a standard bell end of a fitting. With the split ring disposed within the shell and flanges projecting through a radial opening through the shell, a pipe end may be inserted through the joint restraint into the bell. By compressing the split ring about the pipe end by drawing the flanges toward one another and bolting them in place, relative axial movement of the pipe end and fitting is precluded by engagement of the shell flange and split ring.