Preassembled Split Ring Pipe Fitting for Rapid Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of mechanical pipe couplings and fittings is time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the need for disassembly, lubrication, and reassembly of multiple components, particularly the stiff sealing elements which require significant manual effort and handling difficulties.
Innovation Solution
The design of a preassembled pipe fitting with split rings that support the housing portions in a spaced relation, allowing pipe elements to be inserted without disassembly, and adjustable connection members that compress the split rings for secure engagement, reducing the need for manual manipulation and simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the coupling or fitting is preassembled with segments bolted together and sealing element captured, then the installation process is simplified, but the sealing element requires significant manual effort to lubricate and stretch for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into multiple segments (first and second coupling segments) that can be preassembled together while maintaining spacing. This segmentation allows the sealing element to be installed once during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field technicians to manually stretch and lubricate the seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is pre-installed and pre-lubricated during manufacturing before the coupling reaches the installation site. The segments are preassembled with the seal captured between them, so that when installed, the seal is already in its operational position without requiring field manipulation.
2Reliability
If the arcuate surfaces are matched to the pipe element radius for proper engagement, then mechanical restraint is ensured, but the installation time increases due to alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is segmented into multiple parts that can be independently positioned. The first and second coupling segments each have arcuate surfaces that engage the pipe, allowing for modular installation that reduces alignment complexity compared to a single-piece coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling segments are positioned in spaced apart relations along the axial dimension, creating a distributed engagement system. This dimensional distribution allows each segment to be aligned independently with the pipe, reducing the cumulative alignment time required for traditional single-piece couplings.
3Strength
If multiple connection members (lugs with nuts and bolts) are used to draw segments together, then secure mechanical engagement is achieved, but the number of components to handle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling uses multiple segments connected by connection members, distributing the mechanical engagement function across several components. This segmentation allows each connection member to be simpler in design while collectively providing the required structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection members (lugs with nuts and bolts) serve multiple functions: they mechanically join the segments together, allow for adjustable tightening to accommodate installation tolerances, and provide a means to draw the segments into proper engagement with the pipe. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe fitting has housing portions attached in spaced relation to define non-coaxial receptacles that receive pipe elements. The housing portions are supported on split rings received within grooves in each housing portion. The housing portions are supported in spaced relation in a preassembled state to permit insertion of pipe elements into the receptacles without disassembly of the fitting. The grooves in the housing portions have a floor surface with three surface portions. Two of the surface portions on each groove of each housing portion engage the split rings when the housing portions are supported in spaced relation.