Universal Coupling With Tapered Wedge Ribs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current couplings and adapters fail to provide a secure, snug, and facile connection between pipes of different inner diameters, leading to compatibility issues and ineffective fittings.
Innovation Solution
A universal coupling with a tapered end featuring lateral and longitudinal ribs, where the longitudinal ribs are pliable and wedge-like, allowing for secure connection to pipes of varying diameters, and the lateral ribs form circumferential rings or mechanical stops for added stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional couplings and adapters are used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to pipes of different inner diameters is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is designed with a tapered bore and multiple ribs that enable it to accommodate pipes of various inner diameters within a single structure, making one coupling component serve multiple pipe sizes rather than requiring separate adapters for each size
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling features localized structural elements including a tapered bore with specific angle, longitudinal ribs with pliable wedge-like shapes, and lateral ribs forming circumferential rings, where each local feature performs a specific function to achieve overall adaptability without making the entire structure complex
2Reliability
If conventional couplings are used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the connection security and snug fit are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling utilizes a tapered bore with a specific angle range (15-45 degrees) and ribs with pliable wedge-like shapes that change geometric parameters to create mechanical interference and friction, ensuring secure connection while maintaining manufacturability through standard forming processes
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered bore and wedge-like ribs introduce curved and angled surfaces rather than straight cylindrical interfaces, creating a snug fit through conical geometry that distributes contact pressure and enhances connection reliability
3Productivity
If conventional adapters are used, then the structure is straightforward, but the fitting speed and facility are reduced due to compatibility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling accepts multiple pipe diameters through its tapered bore design, eliminating the need to select different adapters for different pipe sizes, thereby speeding up the fitting process while consolidating multiple functions into one component
Solution Approach 2:
The pliable wedge-like ribs can deform elastically during insertion to accommodate varying pipe diameters, then spring back to create a tight fit, providing dynamic adaptability that speeds up installation without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms
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 coupling enables a quick, effective, and secure connection of one pipe to multiple pipes with different inner diameters, ensuring a snug and versatile fitting solution.
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
each of the plurality of longitudinal ribs comprises a pliable and wedge-like shape
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.