• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    split ring coupling. a tube coupling has segments fixed end to end to define a central space that receives elements of tubes inserted between the segments. the segments are supported on slotted rings received within grooves in each segment. the segments are supported in relation to spaced in a pre-assembled state to allow insertion without disassembling the coupling. the grooves in the segments have a bottom surface with three surface parts. two of the surface parts in each groove of each segment fit with the split rings when the segments are supported in relation to each other.
    公开号:BR112016012511B1
    申请号:R112016012511-8
    申请日:2014-12-18
    公开日:2020-12-15
    发明作者:Matthew A. Bowman
    申请人:Victaulic Company；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    CROSS REFERENCE FOR RELATED ORDER
    [001] This application is a non-provisional application for provisional patent application US 61 / 920,138, filed on December 23, 2013, and claims priority benefit for it, whose provisional application is incorporated into this document by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [002] This invention relates to mechanical pipe couplings for joining pipe elements in relation from end to end. BACKGROUND
    [003] Prior art mechanical couplings for joining tube elements together end to end comprise connectable segments that are positionable circumferentially surrounding the ends of coaxially aligned tube elements. The term “tube element” is used throughout this document to describe any tube-like item or component having a tube-like shape. Tube elements include tube material, tube fittings such as elbows, caps and tees as well as fluid control components such as valves, reducers, filters, restrictors, pressure regulators and more.
    [004] Each mechanical coupling segment comprises a housing having arcuate surfaces that project radially into the housing and fit with smooth-ended tube elements, boss-end tube elements, boss-tube elements and circumferential strands or grooves that extend around each of the tube elements to be joined. The fit between the arcuate surfaces and the pipe elements provides mechanical restriction for the joint and ensures that the pipe elements remain coupled even under high internal pressure and high external forces. The housings define an annular channel that receives a gasket or seal, typically an elastomeric ring that fits with the ends of each tube element and cooperates with the segments to provide a fluid-tight seal. The segments have connecting components, typically in the form of ears that protrude out of the housings. The ears are adapted to receive fasteners, such as nuts and bolts, which can be tightened tightly to pull the segments towards each other.
    [005] To ensure a good fit between the couplings and the tube elements, the arched surfaces in the prior art couplings have a radius of curvature that is substantially matched to the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the tube element with which it must fit. For couplings used with grooved tube elements, the radii of curvature of the arcuate surfaces are smaller than the radii of curvature of the outer surfaces of the tube elements outside the grooves in such a way that the arcuate surfaces fit into the grooves and appropriately.
    [006] This geometric relationship between the arched surfaces of the couplings and the external surfaces of the tube elements in the prior art couplings results in a lengthy installation process when mechanical couplings are used. Typically, the coupling is received by the technician with the segments screwed together and the ring seal captured within the channels of the segments. The technician first disassembles the coupling by loosening the screws, removes the ring seal, lubricates it (if not pre-lubricated) and places it around the ends of the pipe elements to be joined. Installation of the ring seal requires that it be lubricated and stretched significantly to accommodate the pipe elements, an often difficult and disorderly task, as the ring seal is usually rigid and lubrication makes manual handling of the seal difficult. With the ring seal in place on both tube elements, the segments are then placed one at a time on the ends of the tube elements and capturing the ring seal against them. During placement, the segments fit the seal, the arched surfaces are aligned with the grooves when present, or with alignment marks made on the external surfaces of the tube elements, the screws are inserted through the ears, the nuts are placed on the screws and tightened , pulling the coupling segments towards each other, compressing the seal and fitting the arched surface into the grooves.
    [007] As evident from the previous description, installing mechanical pipe couplings according to the prior art requires the technician to typically handle at least seven individual part parts (and more when the coupling has more than two segments), and you must completely disassemble and reassemble the coupling. Significant time, effort and cost would be saved if the technician could install a mechanical pipe coupling without first disassembling it and then completely reassembling it, piece by piece. SUMMARY
    [008] The invention relates to a coupling for joining tube elements in relation from end to end. In an example embodiment, the coupling comprises a plurality of segments fixed to each other end to end with respect to spaced apart. The segments surround a central space to receive the tube elements. Each of the segments has a channel extending between the ends. Each of the segments has first and second grooves extending between the ends. The grooves are positioned spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the channel. Each of the grooves is defined by two lateral surfaces arranged in relation to each other, and a bottom surface extending between them. Each bottom surface comprises first and second surface parts arranged respectively at opposite ends of the segments, and a third surface part positioned between them. Each of the first and second surface parts has a greater radius of curvature than that of the third surface part. The example coupling also includes a first split ring positioned within the first groove and a second split ring positioned within the second groove. The first and second split rings fit with the first and second bottom surface parts in the first and second grooves and support the segments in relation to spaced to the side.
    [009] In a particular example embodiment, at least one of the split rings has an external radius of curvature and an internal radius of curvature. The internal radius of curvature is at least equal to the external radius of the tube elements in this example. In addition, in this example, the radius of curvature of the first and second surface parts on at least one of the segments is substantially equal to the external radius of curvature of the at least one split ring.
    [010] In an example embodiment, at least one of the split rings supports the segments in a pre-assembled state in which the segments are supported on the at least one split ring in relation to spaced to the side sufficient to allow the elements of tubes are inserted into the central space. In this example embodiment, the at least one split ring has sufficient rigidity to maintain the segments in the pre-assembled state for handling the coupling during insertion of the tube elements.
    [011] As an example, at least one of the first and second surface parts has a length extending from about 5% to about 30% of a total length of at least one of the grooves. In a further example, at least one of the split rings has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. In another example embodiment, at least one of the split rings comprises a plurality of teeth arranged in relation to each other spaced apart. The teeth extend circumferentially along at least one split ring and protrude towards a center of the central space.
    [012] The coupling according to another example mode also comprises a seal positioned within the channels of the segments. As an example, the seal comprises a resilient flexible ring having internal ring surfaces adapted to fit with external surfaces of the tube elements. The inner ring surfaces have a diameter dimensioned to receive the tube elements by inserting the tube elements between the segments.
    [013] In a particular example embodiment, the inner ring surfaces comprise first and second edges extending circumferentially along the ring. The edges are positioned on opposite sides of the ring in relation to spaced from the side and project substantially inward towards each other. The edges are adapted to fit with the tube elements and form a fluid-tight seal when the ring is compressed by the segments. As an example, each of the first and second edges has a conical surface facing out of the ring. The conical surfaces have a dimensioned width to fit and guide the tube elements between the segments when the tube elements are inserted between them.
    [014] In an example embodiment, the sealing element comprises a rear wall and first and second side walls positioned in relation to spaced to the side on opposite sides of the ring. The side walls extend substantially radially inwardly from the rear wall. The first edge is attached to the first side wall and the second edge is attached to the second side wall. A rib is attached to the rear wall. The rib extends circumferentially along the ring. The rib is positioned between the first and second edges and projects substantially radially inward in this example mode. The rib fits with the ends of the tube elements by inserting them between the segments.
    [015] In addition, by way of example, the segments comprise connecting components that can be tightened tightly to pull the segments towards the central space. Connecting components that can be tightened tightly include a plurality of fasteners. The fasteners extend between the segments and hold the segments together in a pre-assembled state in which the segments are supported on at least one split ring.
    [016] An example embodiment further comprises at least one first angularly oriented surface located in a first segment of the segments, and at least one second angularly oriented surface located in a second segment of the segments. The first and second angularly oriented surfaces are in a confrontational relationship and slide over each other when the fasteners are tightened to bring the first and second angularly oriented surfaces into contact. Sliding movement between the first and second angularly oriented surfaces causes the first and second segments to rotate in opposite directions from each other.
    [017] In another example embodiment, a coupling for joining tube elements in relation from end to end comprises a plurality of segments fixed to each other end to end in relation to spaced at the side and surrounding a central geometric axis and defining a central space to receive the tube elements. Each of the segments has a channel defined by a rear wall extending between the ends of the segments. Each of the rear walls has a surface facing the central geometric axis. Each of the segments has first and second grooves extending between the ends. The grooves are positioned spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the channel. Each of the grooves is defined by two lateral surfaces arranged in relation to each other and a bottom surface extending between them. Each of the bottom surfaces faces the central geometric axis. A first split ring is positioned within the first groove and a second split ring is positioned within the second groove of the segments. At least one of the first and second split rings fits with at least one of the bottom surfaces in one of the first and second grooves near the ends of the at least one segment and thereby supports the segments in the spaced relationship to the side. For at least one segment, a distance between the rear wall surface and the bottom surface, as measured along a radially extending line extending from the central geometric axis, is a first value at a first point midway between the ends of the at least one segment, and a second value at a second point close to at least one of the ends of the at least one segment. The first value is greater than the second value.
    [018] As an example, the coupling for joining tube elements in relation from end to end comprises a plurality of segments fixed to each other end to end in relation to spaced to the side and surrounding a central space to receive the tube elements . Each of the segments has a channel extending between the ends. Each of the segments has at least one groove extending between the ends. At least one groove is positioned adjacent to the channel. The at least one groove is defined by two lateral surfaces arranged in relation to each other and a bottom surface extending between them. The bottom surface comprises first and second surface parts arranged respectively at opposite ends of the segments, and a third surface part positioned between them. Each of the first and second surface parts has a greater radius of curvature than that of the third surface part in this example embodiment. A split ring is positioned inside at least one groove. The split ring fits with the first and second surface parts of the bottoms and supports the segments in relation to the side spaced.
    [019] In a particular example embodiment, the split ring has an external radius of curvature and an internal radius of curvature. The internal radius of curvature is at least equal to an external radius of the pipe elements, and the radius of curvature of the first and second surface parts on at least one of the segments is substantially equal to the external radius of curvature of the split ring.
    [020] In an example embodiment, the split ring supports the segments in a pre-assembled state in which the segments are supported on the split ring in relation to spaced enough to allow the tube elements to be inserted in the central space . In a particular example embodiment, the split ring has sufficient rigidity to maintain the segments in the pre-assembled state for handling the coupling during insertion of the tube elements.
    [021] As an example, at least one of the first and second surface parts has a length extending from about 5% to about 30% of a total length of at least one of the grooves. In a further example, the split ring has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. In another example, the split ring comprises a plurality of teeth arranged in relation to each other spaced apart and extending circumferentially along the split ring. The teeth protrude towards a center of the central space in this example.
    [022] The invention also encompasses a coupling for joining tube elements in relation from end to end. In another example embodiment, the coupling comprises a plurality of segments fixed to each other end to end with respect to spaced at the side and surrounding a central space to receive the tube elements. Each of the segments has a channel extending between the ends. Each of the segments has first and second grooves extending between the ends. The grooves are positioned spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the channel. Each of the grooves is defined by two lateral surfaces arranged in relation to each other and a bottom surface extending between them. Each bottom surface comprises first and second surface parts arranged respectively at opposite ends of the segments and a third surface part positioned between them. Each of the first and second surface parts has a center of curvature offset from a center of curvature of the third surface part. A first split ring is positioned inside the first groove, and a second split ring is positioned inside the second groove. The first and second split rings fit with the first and second bottom surface parts in the first and second grooves and support the segments in the spaced relationship to the side.
    [023] In a particular example embodiment, at least one of the split rings has an external radius of curvature and an internal radius of curvature. The internal radius of curvature is at least equal to an external radius of the tube elements. In this example embodiment, the first and second surface parts on at least one of the segments have respective radii of curvature substantially equal to the external radius of curvature of the at least one split ring.
    [024] In another example embodiment, at least one of the split rings supports the segments in a pre-assembled state in which the segments are supported on at least one split ring in relation to spaced enough to allow the elements tubes to be inserted in the central space.
    [025] As an example, the at least one split ring has sufficient rigidity to maintain the segments in the pre-assembled state for handling the coupling during insertion of the tube elements.
    [026] In an example embodiment, at least one of the first and second surface parts has a length extending from about 5% to about 30% of a total length of at least one of the grooves.
    [027] In a particular example embodiment, at least one of the split rings has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. In another example embodiment, at least one of the split rings comprises a plurality of teeth arranged in relation to each other spaced apart. The teeth extend circumferentially along at least one split ring. The teeth protrude towards a center of the central space. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [028] Figure 1 is an axial view of an example tube coupling according to the invention;
    [029] Figure 1A is an exploded isometric view of the tube coupling shown in figure 1;
    [030] Figure 2 is an isometric view of a segment of the tube coupling shown in figure 1;
    [031] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the tube coupling shown in Figure 1;
    [032] Figure 3A is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a tube coupling according to the invention;
    [033] Figure 3B is an isometric view of a segment of the tube coupling shown in figure 3A;
    [034] Figures 3C, 3D and 3E are cross-sectional views of example embodiments of coupling segments according to the invention;
    [035] Figures 4 and 5 are axial views of another example embodiment of a tube coupling according to the invention;
    [036] Figure 5A is a longitudinal sectional view of the tube coupling shown in figures 4 and 5;
    [037] Figures 6 and 7 are isometric views of example seals used with the pipe couplings according to the invention;
    [038] Figures 8-10 are longitudinal sectional views illustrating a method of using the pipe couplings according to the invention; and
    [039] Figure 11 is an axial view of an example coupling according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    [040] Figures 1 and 1A show an example coupling 10 according to the invention. Coupling 10 comprises a plurality of segments, in this example the two segments 12 and 14 attached to each other end with end surrounding a central space 16. As shown in figure 2, each of the segments 12 and 14 (shown 12) has a channel 20 extending between the ends 22 and 24 of the segments. Each segment 12 and 14 also has the first and second grooves 26 and 28. The grooves 26 and 28 extend between ends 22 and 24 of the segments and are positioned in relation to each other on opposite sides of the channel 20. Each groove 26 and 28 is defined by two side surfaces 30 and 32, arranged in spaced relation, and by a bottom surface 34 which extends between the side surfaces. As shown in figures 2 and 3, the bottom surface 34 comprises the three surface parts 36, 38 and 40. The first and second surface parts 36 and 38 are arranged, respectively, at opposite ends 22 and 24 of the segments 12 and 14. The third surface part 40 is positioned between the first and second surface parts 36 and 38. Each of the first and second surface parts 36 and 38 has a respective radius of curvature 42 and 44, and these radii are larger than the radius of curvature 46 of the third surface part 40. The first and second surface parts 36 and 38 advantageously have a length of about 5% to about 30% of the total length of one of the grooves 26, 28.
    [041] As shown in figures 1, 1A and 3, the coupling 10 includes the first and second split rings 48 and 50. The split ring 48 is positioned inside the groove 26 and the split ring 50 is positioned inside the groove 28 of the segments 12 and 14. With reference to figure 3, the split rings (shown 48) have an external radius of curvature 52 and an internal radius of curvature 54. In their undeformed state, the external radius of curvature 52 of the rings The slotted rings are dimensioned in such a way that the split rings 48 and 50 fit with the first and second surface parts 36 and 38 of the bottom surface 34 and thus support segments 12 and 14 in relation to spaced sides sufficiently to allow elements tubes are inserted into the central space 16 as described in detail below. This spaced configuration of the segments (shown in figures 1 and 3) is known as the “pre-assembled state”, and the stiffness of the split rings 48 and 50 is sufficient to keep segments 12 and 14 in this pre-assembled state during shipping, handling and assembly of the joint. It is advantageous that the radii of curvature 42 and 44 of the first and second surface parts 36 and 38 of the bottom surface 34 of the grooves 26 and 28 are substantially equal to the radii of curvature of the split rings 48 and 50 in their undeformed state. Also for this purpose, when in their undeformed state, the internal radii of curvature 54 of the split rings 48 and 50 are dimensioned to be at least as large as the maximum radius of the tube elements that the coupling 10 must join. This allows insertion of the tube elements into the central space 16 when the coupling 10 is in its pre-assembled state as described below.
    [042] In the pre-assembled state, segments 12 and 14 are attached to each other end with end surrounding the central space 16 and are supported in relation to each other as shown in figure 1, the spacing being sufficient to allow that tube elements are inserted between segments 12 and 14 in the central space 16. Interconnection of segments 12 and 14 is carried out by means of connecting components, preferably in the form of ears 56 and 58 shown in figures 1 and 2. The ears preferably are positioned at each end of each segment and protrude out of the segments. Ears 56 and 58 are positioned in relation to each other and adapted to receive fasteners, preferably in the form of screws 60 and nuts 62, which can be tightened tightly and which cooperate with ears 56 and 58 to connect the segments evenly. coupling to each other as discussed with further details below. The stiffness of the split rings 48 and 50, although sufficient to support the segments 12 and 14 in the spaced ratio of the pre-assembled state, is not so great as to prevent the use of hand tools to tighten the screws 60 and the nuts 62 to pull the segments 12 and 14 towards the central space 16, thus deforming the split rings to the point where their outer radii 52 are smaller and substantially equal to the radii of the third surface part 40 of the grooves 26 and 28. The radii internals 54 also become smaller as the split rings deform to allow them to fit into grooves in tube elements and provide mechanical fit between the coupling 10 and the tube elements to retain the tube elements in the coupling against externally applied forces as well as forces due to internal pressure within the pipe elements that would tend to cause the joint to separate (other types of pipe elements, for example, pipe elements with n lugs and lugs and cords can also be fitted effectively by internal spokes 54). When used with grooved tube elements it is advantageous that the split rings have a rectangular cross sectional shape (as shown in figure 1A) in order to provide substantially continuous fit within the grooves. In another coupling embodiment 64, shown in figures 4, 5 and 5A, the split rings 66 comprise a plurality of teeth 68. The teeth 68 are arranged in relation to each other spaced apart and extend circumferentially around the split rings 66. Split rings 66 are advantageously used with smooth-ended pipe elements. The teeth 68 project towards the center 70 of the central space 16 and are forced to fit with the outer surface of the smooth-ended tube when the split rings 66 are deformed by tightening the screws 60 and the nuts 62 to pull the segments 12 and 14 towards the central space 16. The teeth bite on the tube elements to provide the desired mechanical fit to secure the tube elements to the coupling. Use of the split ring type (toothed or rectangular cross section) is expected to provide pipe couplings with exceptional rigidity. The segments are advantageously formed of metal, such as iron, and the split rings can be formed of spring steel, stainless steel, copper and beryllium alloy, as well as polymers including plastics such as nylon and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) .
    [043] Figures 3A and 3B show another example 11 coupling according to the invention. Similar to coupling 10, coupling 11 comprises a plurality of segments, in this example, the two segments 13 and 15 attached to each other end with end surrounding a central space 17. As shown in figure 3B, each of the segments 13 and 15 (shown 13) has a channel 21 that extends between the ends 23 and 25 of the segments. Each segment 13 and 15 also has the first and second grooves 27 and 29. The grooves 27 and 29 extend between the ends 23 and 25 of the segments and are positioned in relation to each other on opposite sides of the channel 21. Each groove 27 and 29 is defined by the two side surfaces 31 and 33, arranged in spaced relation, and by a bottom surface 35 which extends between the side surfaces. As shown in figures 3A and 3B, the bottom surface 35 comprises the three surface parts 37, 39 and 41. The first and second surface parts 37 and 39 are arranged, respectively, at opposite ends 23 and 25 of the segments 13 and 15. The third surface part 41 is positioned between the first and second surface parts 37 and 39. Each of the first and second surface parts 37 and 39 has a respective center of curvature 43 and 45, and these centers of curvature they are offset from the center of curvature 47 of the third surface part 41 (i.e., do not coincide with it). The first and second surface parts 37 and 39 advantageously have a length of about 5% to about 30% of the total length of one of the grooves 27, 29.
    [044] Similar to coupling 10, coupling 11 includes the first and second split rings 49 and 51 (shown 49). Slit ring 49 is positioned inside slot 27 and slit ring 51 is positioned inside slot 29 of segments 13 and 15 (see figure 3B). With reference to figure 3A, the split rings (49 being shown) have an external radius of curvature 53 and an internal radius of curvature 55. In their undeformed state, the external radius of curvature 53 of the split rings is dimensioned accordingly. so that the split rings 49 and 51 engage with the first and second surface parts 37 and 39 of the bottom surface 35 and thereby support segments 13 and 15 in relation to each other sufficiently spaced to allow tube elements to be inserted into the central space 17 as described in detail below. This spaced configuration of the segments (shown in figure 3A) is known as the “pre-assembled state”, and the stiffness of the split rings 49 and 51 is sufficient to keep segments 13 and 15 in this pre-assembled state during shipping, handling and union assembly. It is advantageous that the radii of curvature of the first and second surface parts 37 and 39 of the bottom surface 35 of the grooves 27 and 29 are substantially equal to the radii of curvature of the split rings 49 and 51 in their undeformed state. Also for this purpose, when in their undeformed state, the internal radii of curvature 55 of the split rings 49 and 51 are dimensioned to be at least as large as the maximum radius of the pipe elements that the coupling 11 must join. This allows insertion of the tube elements into the central space 17 when the coupling 11 is in its pre-assembled state as described below. It should be noted that, for coupling 11, the radii of curvature of the first and second surface parts 37 and 39 have no required relationship to the radius of curvature of the third surface part 41, differently from that of the coupling 10, where the radii of curvature 42 and 44 of the surface parts 36 and 38 are greater than the radius of curvature 46 of the third surface part 40.
    [045] As shown in figure 3C, the example coupling segments 21 according to the invention can also be described by means of the geometric relationship between the rear wall 23, extending between the ends of the segment and defining the channel 25, and the bottom surface 27 of the groove 29 that receives the split rings (not shown). The geometric relationship that allows the split rings to support the segments 21 in relation to spaced ones as described above concerns a first distance 31, measured between the rear wall surface 23 and the bottom surface 27 of the groove 29 along a line projecting radially 33 between a central geometric axis 35 (for example, the longitudinal geometric axis of pipe elements being joined by the segment) and a point 37 halfway between the ends of segment 21, and a second distance 39, measured between the rear wall surface 23 and the bottom surface 27 of the groove 29 along a line projecting radially 41 between the central geometric axis 35 and a point 43 near an end of the segment 21. The value of the first distance 31 is greater that the value of the second distance 39 for segments according to the invention.
    [046] This geometric condition can be realized, for example, as shown in figure 3C by continuously changing the curvature of the bottom 27 as it crosses between points 37 and 43. In another example, shown in figure 3D, the curvature of the bottom 27 is changed suddenly in the regions close to the ends of the segment 21. Figure 3E shows the bottom 28 formed of faceted straight segments in the regions close to the ends of the segments to receive the split rings to support the segments in relation to spaced.
    [047] Figures 6 and 7 show examples of seals used with the couplings 10, 11 and 64 according to the invention. The seal 72 (figure 6) is preferably a resilient flexible ring formed of elastomeric material. The seal may have edges 74 that use internal pressure within the tubes to increase the sealing force between the seal and the outer surfaces of the tube elements. As shown in figure 7, another type of seal 76 may also have a rib 78 positioned between the edges 74, the rib extending circumferentially along the seal and projecting radially inward. The rib 78 provides a stop surface that engages with the ends of tube elements to ensure proper positioning of the seal 76 relative to the tube elements. The fitting of the tube elements with the rib 78 also aligns the tube fitting surfaces with the grooves (if present), or with alignment marks on the outer surface of the tube elements. Seals 72 and 76 are received inside channels 20 (see figures 1A and 2) of couplings 10 and 64.
    [048] Assembly of a pipe joint is illustrated in figures 8-10. After both tube elements 80 and 82 are inserted into coupling 10, as shown in figures 8 and 9, nuts 62 are tightened (see also figure 1). The nuts 62 cooperate with their screws 60 to pull the segments 12 and 14 towards the central space 16. Tightening the nuts exerts a force on the ears 56 and 58 that compresses the split rings 48 and 50 and causes them to deform in such a way so that they fit with the outer surfaces of the pipe elements 80 and 82 within the slots 84 and 86. For smooth-ended pipe (see figures 4 and 5), compression of the split rings 66 causes your teeth 68 to bite the surface tube elements. Deformation of the split rings 48 and 50 is preferably substantially elastic, allowing them to spring back substantially to their original shape when the nuts 62 are loosened, thereby allowing the coupling 10 to be reused in the manner according to the invention as described in this document. The split rings can also be designed to have significant plastic deformation, where the deformation imparts a permanent configuration to the rings. For practical couplings, in general there will be some degree of both plastic and elastic deformation occurring in the split rings as a result of tightening the fasteners. The seal 72 is also deformed by this process, with the edges 74 coming into full contact with the outer surfaces of tube elements. Because the seal 72 is substantially non-compressible volumetrically, it must be provided with space for it to expand when compressed radially by the segments.
    [049] The joint stiffness can be increased using the coupling segments 71 and 73 as shown in figure 11. In addition to having the grooves and slotted rings as described above, the segments 71 and 73 also have the angularly oriented surfaces 75 (in segment 71) and 77 (in segment 73). Surfaces 75 and 77 in this example are located adjacent to connection components 79 and 81. Surfaces 75 in segment 71 are in a confrontational relationship with surfaces 77 in segment 73. As nuts 83 are tightened on screws 85 the segments 71 and 73 are pulled towards each other and for contact in such a way that surfaces 75 engage and slide over surfaces 77. Since the slopes of surfaces 75 and 77 are opposite to each other at opposite ends of the couplings the movement of sliding between the surfaces causes the segments 71 and 73 to rotate in opposite directions with respect to each other around the geometric axis 87 and force the split rings (not shown) to fit with the side surfaces of the grooves in which they are received, thereby adding rigidity to the joint.
    [050] As shown in figures 1 and 3, for the pre-assembled coupling 10, it is advantageous to retain the nuts 62 in a position on the screws 60 that will keep the segments 12 and 14 in the spaced relationship to the desired side as determined by contact between the segments and the split rings 48 and 50.
    权利要求:
    Claims (14)
    [0001]
    1. Coupling (10) for joining tube elements in relation from end to end, said coupling (10) characterized by the fact that it comprises: a plurality of segments (12, 14) fixed to each other end to end in relation to spaced to the side and surrounding a central space (16) to receive said tube elements, each of said segments (12, 14) having a channel (20) extending between said ends (22, 24), each of said segments (12, 14) having at least one groove (26, 28) extending between said ends, said at least one groove (26, 28) being positioned adjacent to said channel (20), said at least one groove (26, 28) defined by two lateral surfaces (30, 32) arranged in spaced relation and a bottom surface (34) extending between them, said bottom surface (34) comprising first and second surface parts ( 36, 38) arranged at opposite ends respectively (22, 24) of said segments (12, 14) and a third surface part (40) positioned between them, each of said first and second surface parts (36, 38) having a radius of curvature (42, 44 ) greater than that of said third surface part (40); a split ring (48, 50) positioned within said at least one groove (26, 28), said split ring (48, 50) engaging said first and second surface parts (36, 38) of said surface bottom (34).
    [0002]
    2. Coupling (10) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that at least one said segment (12, 14) :: a rear wall extending between said ends (22, 24) and defining said channel (20), each of said rear walls having a surface facing said central geometric axis; a distance between said surface of said rear wall and said bottom surface (34), as measured along a line projecting radially extending from said central geometric axis, a first value being at a first point midway between said ends (22, 24) of said at least one segment (12, 14), and a second value at a second point close to at least one of said ends (22, 24) of said at least one segment (12 , 14), said first value being greater than said second value.
    [0003]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one groove (26, 28) is a first groove (26, 28), said coupling (10) having a second groove (26, 28) and said grooves (26, 28) positioned relative to each other on opposite sides of said channel (20); and said split ring (48, 50) is a first split ring (48) positioned within said first groove (26, 28) and further comprises a second split ring (48, 50) positioned within said second groove (26, 28) ), said first and second split rings (48, 50) engaging said first and second surface parts (36, 38) of said funds in said first and second grooves (26, 28).
    [0004]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that each of said segments (12, 14) having said channel (20) defined by said rear wall extending between said ends (22, 24) of said segments (12, 14), each of said rear walls having said surface facing said central geometric axis; said at least one groove (26, 28) is a first groove (26, 28), said coupling (10) having a second groove (26, 28) and said grooves (26, 28) being positioned in a relationship spaced one side on opposite sides of said channel (20), each of said bottom surfaces (34) facing said central geometric axis; and said split ring (48, 50) is a first split ring (48) positioned within said first groove (26, 28) and further comprising a second split ring (50) positioned within said second groove (26, 28) of said segments (12, 14), at least one of said first and second split rings (48, 50) fitting at least one of said bottom surfaces (34) into one of said first and second grooves (26, 28) nearby at said ends (22, 24) of said at least one segment (12, 14) and, thus, for supporting said segments (12, 14) in said spaced relation.
    [0005]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that at least one of said split rings (48, 50) supports said segments (12, 14) in a pre-assembled state in a enough spaced ratio to the side to allow said tube elements to be inserted in said central space (16); preferably said at least one split ring (48, 50) has sufficient stiffness to maintain said segments (12, 14) in said pre-assembled state by handling said coupling (10) during the insertion of said tube elements.
    [0006]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that at least one of said first and second surface parts (36, 38) has a length that extends from about 5% to about 30% of a total length of at least one of said grooves (26, 28); or at least one of said split rings (48, 50) has a rectangular cross-sectional shape; or at least one of said split rings (66) comprises a plurality of teeth (68) arranged in relation to each other spaced apart and extending circumferentially around said at least one split ring (48, 50), said teeth (68) protrude towards the center (70) of said central space (16).
    [0007]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by the fact that it further comprises a seal positioned within said channels (20) of said segments (12, 14); preferably said seal comprises a flexible and resilient ring having inner ring surfaces adapted to fit with outer surfaces of said tube elements, said inner ring surfaces having a diameter dimensioned to receive said tube elements by inserting said tube elements tube between said segments (12, 14).
    [0008]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that said segments (12, 14) comprise connecting components that can be tightened tightly to pull said segments (12, 14) towards said central space (16); preferably said connection components which can be tightened tightly include a plurality of fasteners, said fasteners extend between said segments (12, 14) and retain said segments (12, 14) together in a pre-assembled state; more preferably at least one first angularly oriented surface located on a first segment of said segments (12, 14); at least one second angularly oriented surface located in a second of said segments (12, 14), said first and second angularly oriented surfaces are in confrontation relationship and slide over each other when the fasteners are pressed to place the first and second angularly oriented surfaces in contact, sliding movement between said first and second angularly oriented surfaces, causing said first and second segments (12, 14) to rotate in opposite directions with respect to each other.
    [0009]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 2 or 4, characterized in that said split ring or split rings (48, 50) support said segments (12, 14) in said spaced relation.
    [0010]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that said split ring or split rings (48, 50) have an external radius of curvature (52) and an internal radius of curvature (54), said internal radius of curvature (54) being at least equal to the external radius of said tube elements.
    [0011]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that said radius of curvature of said first and second surface parts (36, 38) in at least one of said segments (12, 14) is substantially equal to said external radius of curvature (52) of said ring or split rings (48, 50).
    [0012]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that said split ring (48, 50) supports said segments (12, 14) in a pre-assembled state in a sufficiently spaced relationship allowing said tube elements to be inserted in said central space (16); or at least one of said first and second surface parts (36, 38) has a length that extends from about 5% to about 30% of a total length of at least one of said grooves (26, 28).
    [0013]
    Coupling (10), according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that it also comprises a seal positioned within said channels (20) of said segments (12, 14); or. said segments (12, 14) comprise connecting components which can be tightened tightly to pull said segments (12, 14) towards said central space (16).
    [0014]
    Coupling (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that said first and second surface parts (36, 38), each having a center of curvature displaced from the center of curvature of said third part of surface (40); and said first and second split rings (48, 50) support said segments (12, 14) in said spaced relationship.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    CA2924125C|2021-02-23|
    CN106062457A|2016-10-26|
    DK3039332T3|2019-03-11|
    MX2016008391A|2016-09-08|
    JP2017508103A|2017-03-23|
    EP3039332B1|2019-01-16|
    KR102123577B1|2020-06-17|
    JP6566485B2|2019-08-28|
    BR112016012511A2|2018-05-22|
    TR201903194T4|2019-03-21|
    AU2014370101B2|2019-01-17|
    US20150176728A1|2015-06-25|
    AU2019200142A1|2019-01-31|
    AU2014370101A1|2016-03-17|
    PL3039332T3|2019-08-30|
    MX369972B|2019-11-27|
    WO2015100121A1|2015-07-02|
    KR20160102153A|2016-08-29|
    EP3039332A1|2016-07-06|
    EP3039332A4|2017-04-19|
    US20170002960A1|2017-01-05|
    US10371295B2|2019-08-06|
    AU2019200142B2|2019-05-23|
    CA2924125A1|2015-07-02|
    CN106062457B|2019-06-18|
    TW201537079A|2015-10-01|
    IL244485A|2020-06-30|
    US10100957B2|2018-10-16|
    TWI657213B|2019-04-21|
    ES2720491T3|2019-07-22|
    CL2016001610A1|2016-11-25|
    IL244485D0|2016-04-21|
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    法律状态:
    2018-11-06| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2020-10-06| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-15| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 18/12/2014, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US201361920138P| true| 2013-12-23|2013-12-23|
    US61/920,138|2013-12-23|
    PCT/US2014/071078|WO2015100121A1|2013-12-23|2014-12-18|Split ring coupling|
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