Three-Sector Pipe Coupling for Misalignment Tolerance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling devices for PVC or PE pipes lack independent restraining and sealing capabilities, are not resistant to transverse forces or misalignment, and require complex installation processes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring three circumferentially adjustable sectors with bolt-and-nut tightening, independent sealing and gripping elements, and a conical grip ring for longitudinal force-locking, allowing for compact connections, easy access, and tolerance of small misalignments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single sealing member is used for both restraining and sealing functions, then the device structure is simplified, but the reliability of sealing and restraining is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe coupling device is divided into separate restraining elements and sealing elements. The restraining function is performed by the coupling body with its gripping surfaces, while the sealing function is performed by a separate sealing member (such as an O-ring or gasket) positioned in a sealing groove. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall reliability while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
2Reliability
If the coupling device is designed to be resistant to transverse forces and misalignment, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates dynamic features such as adjustable gripping surfaces and flexible sealing members that can adapt to misalignment and transverse forces. The coupling body may include slots or adjustable components that allow the gripping surfaces to shift position, while the sealing member can deform to accommodate minor misalignments, providing resistance to transverse forces without requiring complex rigid structures.
3Volume of moving object
If the coupling arms are made shorter for compact connections, then the volume is reduced, but the ease of operation for fastener access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device uses a multi-dimensional approach to fastener arrangement. Instead of only extending coupling arms in one dimension to reach fasteners, the design positions fasteners in multiple dimensions - some may be accessible from the top, others from the sides, and uses varying heights of mounting surfaces. This allows compact arm lengths while maintaining fastener accessibility through spatial optimization.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the pipe coupling allows movement between restraining member and pipe sleeve for misalignment tolerance, then the adaptability improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device uses parameter changes in the form of adjustable gaps and tolerances. The design specifies controlled gap ranges between the restraining member and pipe sleeve that allow for misalignment while maintaining functional performance. These gaps are designed within specific parameter ranges that balance misalignment tolerance with manufacturing feasibility, and may be adjusted during installation to optimize performance.
Data Source
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AI summary
Restraining pipe coupling (1) for connecting to a pipe (4), comprising: a coupling sleeve for receiving an end of the pipe (4) to be restrained and having a first annular abutment surface; a restraining member for surrounding the pipe (4) and having a second annular abutment surface; a grip ring (5) for gripping the pipe, comprised in a recess of the restraining member for facing the pipe; a seal ring (7) for sealing between the coupling sleeve and the pipe (4), comprised in a recess (8) of the coupling sleeve for facing the pipe (4); wherein the restraining member is comprised of three circumferential sectors (2) for tightening together against and around the pipe (4); wherein the first and second annular abutment surfaces are arranged to overlap in a radial direction such that the first and second annular abutment surfaces engage to interlock the coupling sleeve and the restraining member together.