Telescoping Pipe Connector Radial Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flange type pipe connectors are time-consuming to disconnect and reconnect, making them unsuitable for harsh or remote environments, and the existing lock ring connectors require axial movement to disconnect, which is problematic for mid-pipeline section removal.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector with a moveable sleeve and lock ring that allows for radial movement of pipe ends without axial retraction, using teeth on the sleeve and pipe members to lock and unlock the connection, and a split ring for easy disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flange type connection is used, then the connection is strong and reliable, but disconnecting and reconnecting is very time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two main segments: a box member with a cylindrical recess and a pin member with a cylindrical extension. This segmentation allows the pin member to be independently inserted and locked into the box member, enabling quick connection without the complex multi-bolt assembly required by flange types, while maintaining structural integrity through the interlocking teeth and lock ring mechanism.
2Productivity
If a lock ring connector is used, then connection and disconnection is quick and easy, but axial movement is required to disconnect, which prevents mid-pipeline section removal
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from axial movement (one dimension) to radial movement (another dimension) for disconnection. The pin member is locked axially by the lock ring but can be radially displaced outward to disengage from the box member. This dimensional change allows quick release without requiring axial movement, enabling mid-pipeline section removal while maintaining fast connection/disconnection capability.
3Strength
If the pin member is locked axially by the lock ring, then the connection is secure, but the pin member cannot be radially displaced for quick release
Solution Approach 1:
The lock ring is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to maintain strong axial locking under normal operating conditions while permitting radial displacement when a release force is applied. The lock ring can be expanded radially to disengage the teeth from the box member, enabling quick release. This dynamic behavior allows the connector to switch between a locked state (strong axial holding) and an unlocked state (radial displacement possible), resolving the contradiction between security and ease of release.
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 and efficient connection and disconnection of pipe sections without axial movement, allowing for easy removal and replacement of pipeline sections without exposing workers to harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
teeth formed on it outer surface at least in the region of the front end; stop means provided on the second pipe member and the sleeve to prevent axial movement of the sleeve beyond the extended position; and a lock ring having teeth formed on its inner cylindrical surface and sized to engage both the teeth of the first pipe member and the teeth of the sleeve
Implementation Method 2
The pin member is then driven axially into box member with sufficient power to expand the ring member through camming action between the teeth of the pin member and teeth of the locking ring until the pin member is fully engaged in the box member
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connector comprises a first pipe section having a first end and having teeth formed on its outer surface proximate to, but spaced axially apart from, the first end. A second pipe section has a second end which, in use, is to be connected to the first end of the first pipe section. A sleeve is slidably mounted on the outer surface of the second pipe section for movement between a first extended position, in which a front end of the sleeve projects beyond the second end of the second pipe section so as, in use, to overlap the first end of the first pipe section when abutted against the second end of the second pipe section, and a second retracted position in which said front end is withdrawn so as at least to be aligned with the second end of the second pipe section, the sleeve having teeth formed on its outer surface at least in the region of the front end. A stop is provided on the second pipe section and the sleeve to prevent axial movement of the sleeve beyond the extended position. A lock ring is also provided having teeth formed on its inner cylindrical surface which are sized to engage both the teeth of the first pipe section and the teeth of the sleeve when the sleeve is overlapping the first end of the first pipe section so as to lock said first pipe section and the sleeve together against relative axial movement.