Split Shell Coupling for Submersible Pump Shafts
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing coupling systems for submersible pump assembly modules face challenges in accommodating varying dimensions of splined ends, requiring multiple couplings and complex assembly processes, which complicates the connection of interchangeable modules with different capacities.
Innovation Solution
A torque transfer member with splined ends that intermesh with the splined bores of separate shells, secured by retaining rings, allows for the connection of modules with different shaft dimensions, ensuring torque transfer and axial alignment while accommodating dimensional differences between splined ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a variety of different couplings are used to accommodate different shaft dimensions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple shaft dimensions through adjustable elements. The body portion contains multiple recesses of different sizes, and the adjustable element can be positioned in different recesses to match different shaft diameters, allowing one coupling device to serve multiple functions rather than requiring separate couplings for each shaft size.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion with multiple recesses, an adjustable element that can be positioned in different recesses, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows the adjustable element to be independently positioned to match different shaft dimensions while maintaining structural integrity through the fastening mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple couplings are required for different module configurations, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device serves as a universal connector for different module configurations through its adjustable element that can be positioned in different recesses to match various shaft dimensions. This eliminates the need for technicians to select from multiple different coupling types, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining compatibility with interchangeable modules of different capacities.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is pre-configured with multiple recesses of different sizes during manufacturing, allowing the adjustable element to be quickly positioned in the appropriate recess to match the shaft dimension. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex adjustments or selections during field assembly, improving ease of operation.
3Device complexity
If a unitary coupling design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
While maintaining an overall simple unitary structure, the coupling device incorporates segmented functional elements: the body portion with multiple recesses and the separate adjustable element. This segmentation within a unified design allows adaptability to different shaft dimensions without creating a complex multi-component system, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device incorporates dynamic adjustability through the adjustable element that can be repositioned in different recesses to match different shaft dimensions. This dynamic capability is integrated into a relatively simple unitary structure, allowing the coupling to adapt to varying conditions without requiring a complex fixed design.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical submersible pump assembly has a number modules including a pump, a motor and a pressure equalizer. Each module has a rotatable shaft with a splined end that joins a splined end of another module, and those splined ends may differ in dimensions. A coupling that joins the shafts has a first shell has a splined bore that mates with the splined end of the first shaft. A second shell has a splined bore that mates with the splined end of the second shaft. An adopter has a first splined end in mating engagement with the splined bore of the first shell and a second splined end in mating engagement with the splined bore of the second shell. Fasteners secure the adapter to the shells. An annular seal isolates fluid communication between the first shell bore and the second shell bore.