Triangular Pipe Gasket with Embedded Retainer Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe joint sealing systems face challenges in securely retaining elastomeric gaskets within preformed grooves without the need for separate retaining bands, particularly during the insertion process, which can lead to gasket displacement and reduced sealing integrity.
Innovation Solution
A method and design for installing a sealing gasket with a precisely located internal retainer ring within the elastomeric body, allowing the gasket to be obliquely inserted and snapped into a locked-in position within a preformed pipe groove, using a flexible elastomeric material with a rigid ring to resist axial forces and prevent displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a separate hardened retaining band is installed within the gasket groove, then the gasket can resist axial forces during assembly, but the retaining band can become displaced or twisted during insertion and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer ring is embedded within the elastomeric gasket body as a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate retaining bands. The retainer ring becomes an intrinsic part of the gasket structure, combining the sealing function with the retention function in one unified element.
Solution Approach 2:
The gasket consists of composite materials - an elastomeric body providing flexibility and sealing, combined with a rigid retainer ring providing structural strength and axial force resistance. This composite structure allows the gasket to maintain its position while accommodating insertion variations.
2Ease of operation
If the gasket is inserted straight into the groove, then installation is simple, but the gasket cannot accommodate variations in groove positioning or pipe alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is designed with dynamic insertion capability, allowing it to be inserted at oblique angles rather than requiring precise perpendicular alignment. The flexible elastomeric material enables the gasket to adapt its orientation during insertion, accommodating variations in groove positioning and pipe alignment while maintaining sealing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion parameters of the gasket are changed from fixed (straight insertion only) to variable (oblique angles permitted). The retainer ring's precise location within the gasket body enables the gasket to accommodate different insertion angles and positions, transforming a rigid installation requirement into a flexible installation process.
3Reliability
If the retainer ring is located too far forward in the gasket body, then the gasket is securely retained, but the gasket cannot be properly inserted into the groove
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer ring is positioned at a specific optimal location within the gasket body - far enough forward to provide secure retention in the groove, but not so far forward as to prevent insertion. This precise local positioning achieves the balance between retention reliability and insertion feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical positioning system is replaced with a precisely located retainer ring embedded in the elastomeric body. The retainer ring's position is determined by geometric relationships rather than complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, achieving reliable retention with simple insertion.
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
The solution ensures a secure, locked-in seal without additional retaining bands, facilitating easier installation and maintaining the gasket's position within the groove, thereby enhancing the reliability and integrity of the pipe joint.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing gasket is then inserted within the mouth opening of the bell end at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal work axis... until the gasket snaps into a locked-in position
Implementation Method 2
A relatively rigid ring which tends to resist axial forces tending to displace the gasket from the annular groove when in position within the groove
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe sealing gasket is shown which is designed to be received within a groove provided within the belled, socket end of a plastic pipe. The sealing gasket has a body formed of resilient material and has a retainer ring embedded therein which circumscribes the gasket body. The groove in the plastic pipe is preformed during the manufacture of the plastic pipe and the gasket is installed thereafter. The gasket nominal diameter exceeds the internal diameter of the belled pipe end. The retainer ring is placed within the body of the sealing gasket at a precisely determined location which most effectively retains the ring in position while withstanding the forces of the assembly of the pipe joint.