Wide-Range Pipe Coupling With Single-Bolt Gasket Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe couplings require significant manual labor and time for installation, are complex to use, and often necessitate multiple tools, especially in poor environmental conditions, and fail to accommodate a wide range of pipe diameters, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to pipes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe fitting with a cylindrical sleeve, sealing gasket, and clamping element featuring flanges with notches and fastening elements that allow for a single-bolt radial compression, accommodating a wide range of pipe diameters and distributing axial thrust forces circumferentially, simplifying installation and enhancing pipe integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pipe couplings use threaded bolts and nuts with socket wrenches for installation, then the coupling can be securely fastened, but the installation time and manual labor increase significantly due to the long movement distance required for tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional threaded bolt and nut system with a cam-actuated clamping mechanism. The cam profile converts rotational motion into linear clamping motion, eliminating the need for long bolt movements and socket wrenches. This mechanical substitution maintains secure fastening while dramatically reducing installation time and tool complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of fastening from threaded rotation over long distances to cam-actuated rotation over short distances. The cam profile is designed to provide the necessary clamping force through a limited angular rotation, transforming the installation process from a time-consuming threading operation to a quick cam engagement.
2Manufacturing precision
If pipe couplings are designed for specific pipe sizes, then the coupling fits that size precisely, but multiple coupling sizes must be stocked and selected, increasing complexity and installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the coupling with an adjustable clamping mechanism that can accommodate multiple pipe diameter specifications (IPS, DIPS, AC, and oversized cast iron) within a single coupling body. The universal design eliminates the need to stock multiple size-specific couplings, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining precise fit through adjustable clamping force and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through the cam mechanism, allowing the clamping force and positioning to be adapted to different pipe sizes. This dynamic system enables a single coupling design to function across multiple pipe diameter specifications, replacing the static, size-specific couplings of conventional designs.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional couplings require specialty socket wrenches for long bolt movements, then the full compression range can be achieved, but the tool complexity and field installation difficulty increase in poor environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the socket wrench and long-bolt system with a cam-actuated clamping mechanism. The cam profile is designed to achieve full compression range through a limited rotational movement that can be operated by hand or with simple tools, eliminating the need for specialty socket wrenches and making field installation feasible in poor environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through a simple rotational motion that automatically generates the clamping force needed for full compression. The operator simply needs to rotate the cam through a small angle, and the mechanism self-generates the necessary mechanical advantage to achieve complete gasket compression without requiring external tools or complex operations.
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 reduces installation time and manual labor, ensures uniform compression, and protects pipe integrity by distributing axial thrust forces, making it easier to install in various conditions and accommodating different pipe sizes with a single coupling.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more flanges have at least one notch therein on an internal surface thereof... when tightened, creates radially applied clamping force to tightened engagement
Implementation Method 2
distributing axial thrust forces circumferentially, simplifying installation and enhancing pipe integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe fitting is provided including a sleeve having a generally cylindrical body portion with at least one open end configured to receive at least one pipe; a sealing gasket operatively coupled with the sleeve for engaging at least one pipe end of the at least one pipe; and a clamping element operatively coupled with the sleeve for compressing the sealing gasket into tightened engagement with the at least one of the pipe end. The clamping element further includes one or more flanges and the one or more flanges have at least one notch therein on an internal surface thereof.