Tapered Ribbed Pipe Coupling for Mixed-Diameter Secure Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe couplings and adapters fail to provide a secure, snug, and facile connection between pipes with different inner diameters, leading to compatibility issues and ineffective fittings.
Innovation Solution
A universal coupling with a tapered end featuring lateral and longitudinal ribs of pliable, wedge-like shapes that conform to varying pipe diameters, allowing for a secure and versatile connection of pipes with different inner diameters through snap-fit, threaded, or friction-fit mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional couplings and adapters are used to connect pipes with different inner diameters, then the connection structure is simple, but the compatibility and secure fitting are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is designed with a tapered bore and adjustable clamping mechanism that can accommodate pipes of various diameters within a range, transforming a single-function coupling into a multi-functional universal coupling that adapts to different pipe sizes without requiring multiple specialized couplings
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling incorporates movable clamping elements that can dynamically adjust their position and grip force along the tapered bore, allowing the coupling to adapt its internal dimensions to match different pipe outer diameters while maintaining a secure fit
2Reliability
If conventional adapters are used for pipe connections, then the installation process is simple, but the connection security and snug fit are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling's clamping mechanism is divided into multiple independent clamping elements that can engage with the pipe surface at different locations, providing distributed grip force that enhances connection security while allowing straightforward installation through uniform compression
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional couplings are used without specialized structures, then the manufacturing is simple, but the snug and secure fitting of pipes with different diameters is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling utilizes a tapered bore geometry where the diameter gradually changes along the length, allowing the same coupling structure to accommodate different pipe outer diameters by adjusting the position of clamping elements along the taper, eliminating the need for multiple couplings with different internal dimensions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick, secure, and effective connections of pipes with varying diameters, accommodating multiple pipes with varying diameters in a single coupling, enhancing compatibility and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of longitudinal ribs comprises a pliable and wedge-like shape that conforms to each of the plurality of pipes
Implementation Method 2
The present disclosure further provides the coupling and adapter with structure(s) that allow for a secure, snug, quick, effective, and facile fitting
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling configured to connect a first pipe to a plurality of pipes comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the second end is tapered and comprises a plurality of lateral ribs and a plurality of longitudinal ribs, wherein each of the plurality of longitudinal ribs comprises a pliable and wedge-like shape, and each of the plurality of longitudinal ribs tapers toward the second end.