Water distributor plug and its installation method
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-06-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-14
AI Technical Summary
焊接工艺存在热变形风险,对操作人员技能要求高
第一,无需焊接,采用机械铆接方式固定,彻底摒弃焊接工序,简化生产流程,无需钝化、防腐等后处理,显著提升生产效率与良品率,降低生产成本。
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Figure CN122566052A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of pipeline connection and sealing technology, and in particular to a manifold plug and its installation method. Background Technology
[0002] The description in this section provides only background information relevant to the disclosure of this application and does not constitute prior art.
[0003] In piping systems such as HVAC, water supply and drainage, and server liquid cooling, it is often necessary to distribute fluid from a main pipe to multiple branch pipes. In this process, the ends of the main pipe and each branch pipe often need to be reliably sealed or have fluid diversion achieved.
[0004] Currently, end sealing and interface connections for such pipes mostly employ welding or threaded connections. Welding carries the risk of thermal deformation and requires highly skilled operators. This is especially true for aluminum pipes, where the welding process is not only complex and yields low success rates, but also requires post-weld passivation and corrosion protection, making the process even more complicated. Threaded plugs, on the other hand, require machining internal threads at the pipe end, increasing the number of steps and cost, and the sealing reliability is significantly affected by the thread machining accuracy and assembly torque.
[0005] Furthermore, in confined spaces such as server racks, traditional axial installation methods are often limited by operating space, making installation and maintenance very inconvenient.
[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a mechanical connection plug solution that requires no welding, no threading at the pipe end, and can adapt to various installation spaces and cross-sectional shapes to meet the general requirements of pipe end sealing and fluid distribution interfaces.
[0007] It should be noted that the above introduction to the technical background is only for the purpose of providing a clear and complete explanation of the technical solutions of this application and facilitating understanding by those skilled in the art. It should not be assumed that these technical solutions are known to those skilled in the art simply because they have been described in the background section of this application. Summary of the Invention
[0008] Based on the aforementioned deficiencies in the prior art, this application provides a water distributor plug and its installation method, which is used to solve at least one of the aforementioned technical problems.
[0009] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: a water distributor plug for a pipe body, wherein the pipe body has an inner cavity, and the pipe wall of the pipe body has a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity; the water distributor plug includes an end face pipe joint and a side face pipe joint; The end face pipe joint includes a first clamping part and a body. The first clamping part abuts against the end face of the pipe body. One end of the body is connected to the first clamping part. The body is sleeved on the end of the pipe body and extends in a direction away from the first clamping part. The body includes a connecting part extending along the extension direction of the body. The connecting part is provided with a second through hole. The side fitting includes a second clamping part, a deformable part, and a side cavity formed by the second clamping part and the deformable part. The deformable part passes through the first through hole of the tube body and the second through hole of the main body and is located at least partially in the inner cavity of the tube body. The deformable part located in the inner cavity of the tube body includes a protrusion that protrudes radially outward, thereby clamping the connecting part of the main body and the tube body with the protrusion and the second clamping part.
[0010] This application discloses a manifold plug assembly for a pipe body, wherein the pipe body has an inner cavity and a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity is provided in the pipe wall; it includes a separate end face pipe joint and a side face pipe joint; The end face pipe connector includes a first clamping part and a body. One end of the body is connected to the first clamping part. The body includes a connecting part extending along the extension direction of the body. The connecting part is provided with a second through hole. The end face pipe connector is configured to be able to be sleeved on the end of the pipe body, so that the first clamping part abuts against the end face of the pipe body. The side pipe joint includes a second clamping part and a deformable part; the side pipe joint is configured to be able to be inserted into the first through hole of the pipe body and the second through hole of the connecting part, so that the second clamping part abuts against the outer side wall of the pipe body, and the deformable part is a protruding part that can undergo radial plastic deformation under the action of external force, thereby clamping and fixing the pipe body to the main body.
[0011] This application discloses an end-face pipe connector for use as a plug for a water distributor, comprising: The first clamping part is used to abut against the end face of the pipe body; The main body is integrally formed with the first pressing part and extends in a direction away from the first pressing part. The main body includes a connecting part extending along the extension direction of the main body, and the connecting part is provided with a second through hole.
[0012] This application discloses a side pipe connector for use as a manifold plug, comprising: Second clamping part; A deformable part for deformation, the deformable part having a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end of the deformable part being connected to the second clamping part; A deformation propulsion part is connected to the second end of the deformation part, which is used to cooperate with a riveting tool to apply axial tensile force to the deformation part.
[0013] This application discloses a water distribution structure, including a pipe body and a water distributor plug as described above.
[0014] This application discloses a method for installing a distributor plug, including the following steps: Insert the end face pipe connector into the end of the pipe body from the side opening until the first clamping part of the end face pipe connector abuts against the end face of the pipe body. At this time, the second through hole on the connecting part of the main body of the end face pipe connector is aligned with the first through hole on the pipe wall. Insert the side pipe connector from the first through hole of the pipe body and through the second through hole of the main body; An axial tensile force is applied to the side pipe joint using a riveting tool, causing the deformable part of the side pipe joint to undergo radial plastic deformation under the action of the axial tensile force, thereby clamping and fixing the pipe wall of the pipe body to the main body.
[0015] This application has the following advantages: First, no welding is required; mechanical riveting is used for fixing, completely eliminating the welding process, simplifying the production process, and eliminating the need for post-treatment such as passivation and corrosion prevention, which significantly improves production efficiency and yield, and reduces production costs.
[0016] Secondly, the connection is firm and reliable. After the side pipe joint deformable part is plastically deformed, it forms a protrusion that clamps the pipe wall and the end face pipe joint body in both directions with the second clamping part. The riveting strength is high, and the vibration and torque resistance is strong, making it suitable for water distributors of various pressure levels.
[0017] Third, it has excellent sealing performance. The dual sealing structure of end face sealing structure and side sealing structure, combined with the fit design between the main body and the inner wall of the pipe, effectively prevents media leakage and improves the safety of use.
[0018] Fourth, it is simple and quick to assemble, with modular design that does not require professional welding equipment. Installation can be completed with a regular rivet gun, making it easy to operate, maintain and replace, and reversible.
[0019] Fifth, it has strong adaptability. The pipe body can adopt various cross-sectional shapes such as rectangle, square, and circle. The end pipe joint and side pipe joint can be designed as through head or blind plug to adapt to different interface requirements and has a wide range of applications.
[0020] Sixth, the end face pipe joint is installed from the end face of the pipe body, and the side pipe joint is inserted and riveted from the side of the pipe body. The installation process is not limited by axial space and has strong adaptability.
[0021] Specific embodiments of this application are disclosed in detail with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, illustrating how the principles of this application can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application are not limited in scope. Within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, the embodiments of this application include many changes, modifications, and equivalents.
[0022] Features described and / or illustrated for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments.
[0023] It should be emphasized that the term "including / comprises" as used herein refers to the presence of a feature, whole, step, or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, or components. Attached Figure Description
[0024] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and scales of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding this application and do not specifically limit the shapes and scales of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this application, can select various possible shapes and scales to implement this application according to specific circumstances. In the drawings: Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an end-face pipe connector disclosed in an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0025] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the mid-end face pipe joint.
[0026] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the side pipe joint before riveting is shown in an embodiment of this application.
[0027] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the side pipe joint.
[0028] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of the side pipe joint after riveting is shown in an embodiment of this application.
[0029] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the side pipe joint.
[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the overall assembly structure of the water distributor plug in one embodiment of this application is shown.
[0031] Figure 8A structural diagram of an end-face pipe connector disclosed in an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0032] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A cross-sectional schematic diagram.
[0033] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the overall assembly structure of the water distributor plug in one embodiment of this application is shown.
[0034] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A cross-sectional schematic diagram.
[0035] Figure 12 A structural diagram of an end-face pipe connector disclosed in an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0036] Figure 13 It shows the relationship with Figure 12 A structural diagram of a side pipe joint after riveting, used in conjunction with other components.
[0037] Figure 14 It shows Figure 12 and Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of the distributor plug after assembly.
[0038] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 A cross-sectional schematic diagram.
[0039] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the tube structure is shown.
[0040] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows: 1. End face pipe connector; 11. First clamping part; 12. Main body; 13. End face part; 14. Second through hole; 15. Third through hole; 16. Connecting part; 17. End face cavity; 18. Guide part; 19. Clearance hole; 2. Side pipe joint; 21. Second clamping part; 22. Deformation part; 23. Side cavity; 24. Protrusion part; 25. Deformation and propulsion part; 26. Sealing part; 27. Gear; 28. Side part 3. Pipe body; 31. First through hole; 32. Inner cavity; 33. Pipe wall; 41. End face sealing structure; 42. Side sealing structure. Detailed Implementation
[0041] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this application.
[0042] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.
[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0044] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, the system embodiments are basically similar to the method embodiments, so the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions in the method embodiments.
[0045] It should be noted that in the description of this application, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used only for descriptive purposes and to distinguish similar objects; there is no order between them, nor should they be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.
[0046] Reference Figure 16 As shown, the pipe body 3 is a conduit in a pipeline system used for transporting fluid, and its interior has an inner cavity 32 for transporting fluid. The pipe body 3 has two opposing ends, and both ends have openings communicating with the inner cavity 32. The distributor plug of this application can be applied to at least one of the two ends of the pipe body 3. The end of the pipe body 3 with the distributor plug is the area to be sealed and / or turned, which is achieved by installing the end face pipe joint 1 and the side pipe joint 2 of this application.
[0047] The cross-sectional shape of the tube body 3 can be rectangular, square, or circular. This embodiment uses a rectangular cross-section aluminum tube as an example for illustration. A first through hole 31 is provided on the tube wall 33 of the tube body 3. The first through hole 31 is connected to the inner cavity 32 of the tube body 3 and is used for the side pipe connector 2 to pass through.
[0048] In this embodiment, the manifold plug includes an end face pipe joint 1 and a side face pipe joint 2.
[0049] Reference Figure 1 As shown, the end face pipe connector 1 adopts an integral structure. It mainly includes a first clamping part 11, a main body 12, and an end face cavity 17 formed by the first clamping part 11 and the main body 12.
[0050] The outer dimensions of the first clamping part 11 are the same as the outer dimensions of the end face of the pipe body 3, so that it can completely abut against the end face of the pipe body 3, playing a role in sealing and bearing force. The thickness of the first clamping part 11 can be adjusted according to the design pressure of the fluid inside the pipe body 3. The higher the pressure, the thicker the flange should be to ensure structural strength.
[0051] The main body 12 is integrally formed and connected to the inner side of the first pressing part 11. The main body 12 extends in a direction away from the first pressing part 11. In this embodiment, a portion of the first pressing part 11 is located on the outer side of the main body 12. In other words, the end face of the tube 3 that abuts against the first pressing part 11 is located on the outer side of the end face cavity 17.
[0052] The main body 12 includes a connecting portion 16 extending along its extension direction. The connecting portion 16 is a plate-like structural part on the main body 12 used to cooperate with the side pipe connector 2 to achieve a clamping connection. The connecting portion 16 is provided with a second through hole 14 communicating with the end face cavity 17. The main body 12 also has a third through hole 15 communicating with the end face cavity 17 at the end position opposite to the first clamping portion 11. The function of the third through hole 15 is to connect the second through hole 14 with the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3 through the end face cavity 17, so that the fluid in the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3 can flow into the flow channel space inside the main body 12 through the third through hole 15, and then flow towards the side pipe connector 2.
[0053] The main body 12 has a guide portion 18 formed at one end facing away from the first pressing portion 11. The function of the guide portion 18 is to guide and position the end face pipe joint 1 when it is fitted onto the end of the pipe body 3, ensuring that the end face pipe joint 1 can accurately reach the installation position. Preferably, the entire outer wall of the main body 12 is adapted to the inner wall of the pipe body 3, that is, the contour of the main body 12 from front to back matches the contour of the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3, so as to obtain better positioning accuracy and support effect.
[0054] As a more preferred embodiment, the main body 12 has a wall facing the second through hole 14, and a clearance hole 19 is also provided on this wall. The projected area of the clearance hole 19 is larger than the projected area of the second through hole 14, and its range covers the second through hole 14. The second through hole 14 can increase the volume of the end face cavity 17, thereby reducing the adverse effects caused by the cross-sectional changes due to the plug of the water distributor.
[0055] To improve sealing reliability, an end face sealing groove is provided on the end face of the first pressing part 11 facing the main body 12 at the outer periphery of the main body 12. This end face sealing groove can be used to accommodate the end face sealing structure 41 of the sealing ring or sealant.
[0056] In this embodiment, the first clamping part 11 is further provided with an end face 13 on the side opposite to the main body 12. When used as an interface for external connection, the end face 13 is provided with a connection hole communicating with the end face cavity 17. The end face 13 can be a pagoda head for direct connection to a flexible hose; or, its outer wall can be provided with internal or external threads for connection to other threaded pipe fittings.
[0057] Reference Figures 3 to 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the side pipe joint 2 is an integrally formed structure. It mainly includes a second clamping part 21, a deformable part 22, and a deformable propulsion part 25. The deformable part 22 has a first end and a second end. The first end of the deformable part 22 is connected to the second clamping part 21, and the deformable part 22 extends in a direction away from the second clamping part 21. The second end of the deformable part 22 can be inserted into the first through hole 31 of the pipe body 3 and the second through hole 14 of the main body 12, thereby entering the end face cavity 17 of the end face pipe joint 1. Generally speaking, the wall thickness of the deformable part 22 is less than the wall thickness of the rest of the side pipe joint 2, and this thin-walled design makes it a predetermined deformation area. The second clamping part 21, the deformable part 22, and the deformable propulsion part 25 form a side cavity 23 that penetrates the side pipe joint 2. During riveting, a rivet gun can be inserted into the side cavity 23 near the second clamping part 21, thereby engaging with the deformable propulsion part 25 (internal thread).
[0058] Reference Figure 7As shown, this embodiment provides a manifold plug for a pipe body 3. The pipe body 3 has an inner cavity 32, and the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3 has a first through hole 31 communicating with the inner cavity 32. The manifold plug is characterized by comprising an end face pipe connector 1 and a side face pipe connector 2. The end face pipe connector 1 comprises a first clamping part 11 and a body 12. The first clamping part 11 abuts against the end face of the pipe body 3. One end of the body 12 is connected to the first clamping part 11. The body 12 is sleeved on the end of the pipe body 3 and extends in a direction away from the first clamping part 11. The body 12 includes a [missing information - likely a definite extension or slit] extending along the body 12. A connecting portion 16 extending in a certain direction is provided with a second through hole 14; the side pipe joint 2 includes a second clamping portion 21, a deformable portion 22, and a side cavity 23 formed by the second clamping portion 21 and the deformable portion 22. The deformable portion 22 passes through the first through hole 31 of the pipe body 3 and the second through hole 14 of the main body 12 and is located at least partially in the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3. The deformable portion 22 located in the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3 includes a protrusion 24 that protrudes radially outward, so that the protrusion 24 and the second clamping portion 21 clamp the connecting portion 16 of the main body 12 and the pipe body 3.
[0059] With the above structure, the end-face pipe joint 1, inserted from the end of the pipe body 3, and the side pipe joint 2, inserted from the side of the pipe body 3, are clamped and fixed by riveting deformation, completely eliminating welding and pipe end threading. This solution is suitable for various piping scenarios that require diversion or distribution of fluid within the pipe body 3, such as HVAC systems, water supply and drainage systems, or server cooling systems, serving as an interface component for fluid distribution. The pipe body 3 can be a main pipeline or a branch pipe 3 extending from the side wall of the main pipeline.
[0060] Before riveting, a toothed 27 structure can be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the deformed part 22. A side sealing groove is provided on the end face of the second clamping part 21 facing the deformed part 22 at the outer circumference of the deformed part 22 to accommodate a sealing ring or sealant.
[0061] In this embodiment, the side of the second clamping part 21 facing away from the deformable part 22 may also be provided with a side part 28 for connecting to an external pipeline. When serving as an interface for external connection, the side part 28 is provided with a connection hole communicating with the side cavity 23. The side part 28 can be a pagoda head for direct connection to a flexible hose; or, its outer wall can be provided with internal or external threads for connection to other threaded pipe fittings. In another optional embodiment, if the side part is only used for sealing, the side part 28 can be made into a blind plug structure without through holes. The blind plug can be detachably connected to the second clamping part 21. Before riveting, the blind plug can be removed from the second clamping part 21, and after riveting, the blind plug can be reassembled to the second clamping part 21.
[0062] In the uninstalled state, the end face pipe connector 1 and the side pipe connector 2 are configured as separate components to be assembled with the pipe body 3. Specifically, the end face pipe connector 1 is configured to be inserted into the interior of the end of the pipe body 3. Since the outer contour of the guide portion 18 (or the entire body 12) matches the inner wall of the pipe body 3, and the outer wall of the guide portion 18 (or the entire body 12) has a clearance fit or an overfit with the inner wall of the pipe body 3, its function is to guide during installation.
[0063] When the end-face pipe connector 1 is inserted into a preset position on the connecting portion 16 of the pipe body 3, the second through hole 14 formed in the connecting portion 16 aligns with the first through hole 31 formed in the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3. At this time, the side pipe connector 2 is configured such that the deformable portion 22 of the side pipe connector 2 can be inserted from the outside of the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3 into the first through hole 31 of the pipe body 3 and the second through hole 14 of the connecting portion 16, and at least partially enters the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3 until the second clamping portion 21 abuts against the outer wall of the pipe body 3. The deformable portion 22 of the side pipe connector 2 has not yet deformed.
[0064] The rivet gun can extend into the side cavity 23 and cooperate with the deformable part 22, causing the deformable part 22 of the side pipe joint 2 to undergo radial plastic deformation under axial tensile force. After riveting, a protrusion 24 protruding radially outward is formed on the deformable part 22, and the protrusion 24 is riveted and fixed together with the connecting part 16. At this time, the protrusion 24 abuts against the inner side wall of the main body 12. The protrusion 24 and the second clamping part 21 form a pair of clamping structures, which together firmly clamp the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3 and the connecting part 16 of the main body 12. The third through hole 15 remains in communication with the side cavity 23, so that the fluid in the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3 can flow smoothly into the side cavity 23 through the third through hole 15, and then be transported to the downstream pipeline through the side part 28.
[0065] After the deformable part 22 deforms and bulges, the toothed teeth 27 on it will embed into the connecting part 16 of the end face pipe joint 1 that contacts it, forming a mechanical engagement. This engagement can greatly improve the ability of the connecting joint to resist external torque and prevent the side pipe joint 2 from rotating and loosening during long-term use.
[0066] When the first pressing part 11 presses against the end face of the pipe body 3, the sealing structure in the end face sealing groove is compressed, forming a reliable seal and preventing fluid leakage from the end face. When the second pressing part 21 presses against the outer wall of the pipe body 3, the sealing structure in the side sealing groove is compressed, forming a reliable seal.
[0067] Regarding the state of the deformable propulsion part 25 after riveting, there are two options. The first option is that the deformable propulsion part 25 is configured to break off after riveting, for example, by pre-setting a weak point (such as an annular V-groove) at the connection between the deformable propulsion part 25 and the deformable part 22, allowing separation from this point when the tensile force reaches a preset fracture value. The second option is that the deformable propulsion part 25 and the deformable part 22 are integrally constructed without breakage, and after riveting, the deformable propulsion part 25 is permanently retained on the product as part of the side pipe joint 2.
[0068] See Figures 8 to 11 As shown, this embodiment provides another implementation of the manifold plug. One difference from the previous embodiment is that in this embodiment, the main body 12 of the end face pipe connector 1 is sleeved on the outside of the pipe body 3, rather than passing through the inside of the pipe body 3. "Sleeved" in this embodiment means that the main body 12 is sleeved on the outside of the pipe body 3. The basic structure of the pipe body 3 and the side pipe connector 2 is the same as in the previous embodiment, and will not be described again here. At this time, the contact portion between the first clamping part 11 in the end face pipe connector 1 and the pipe body 3 is located within the end face cavity 17.
[0069] In the assembly structure after installation in this embodiment, the inner wall shape of the guide portion 18 is adapted to the outer wall shape of the tube body 3, and the two adopt a clearance fit or a transition fit. The guide portion 18 is formed at the end of the main body 12 away from the first pressing portion 11, and its inner wall contour matches the outer wall contour of the tube body 3, playing a guiding and positioning role during installation. In another optional embodiment, the entire inner wall contour of the main body 12 is adapted to the outer wall contour of the tube body 3. That is, the entire main body 12 is the guide portion 18.
[0070] The connecting part 16 extends along the extension direction of the main body 12 and is provided with a second through hole 14. When the end face pipe connector 1 is fitted into place, the connecting part 16 is located on the outside of the pipe body 3, and the second through hole 14 is aligned with the first through hole 31 on the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3.
[0071] The deformable portion 22 of the side pipe connector 2 passes sequentially from the outside to the inside through the second through hole 14 of the connecting portion 16 and the first through hole 31 of the pipe body 3, and at least partially enters the inner cavity 32 of the pipe body 3. After riveting, a protrusion 24 is formed on the deformable portion 22, which is radially outwardly protruding and fixed together with the pipe body 3. That is, the protrusion 24 abuts against the inner wall of the pipe body 3, while the second clamping portion 21 abuts against the outer wall of the connecting portion 16 of the main body 12. The two form a pair of clamping structures, which together firmly clamp the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3 and the connecting portion 16 of the main body 12.
[0072] This type of installation, where the main body 12 is fitted with an outer casing, is suitable for applications where the outer wall of the pipe 3 is relatively regular, the internal space is limited, or it is necessary to preserve the maximum flow cross-section inside the pipe 3. When the inner diameter of the pipe 3 is small and it is inconvenient to insert the main body 12 inside, the solution of this embodiment can be adopted.
[0073] Continue to refer to Figures 8 to 11 As shown, in another optional embodiment, the side connector 2 further includes a sealing portion 26, which is disposed on the side of the deformable propulsion portion 25 away from the second clamping portion 21. Similar to the previous embodiment, the rivet gun can now extend from the outside into the side cavity 23, thereby deforming the deformable portion 22. Unlike the previous embodiment, the fluid in the end chamber is blocked by the sealing portion 26; in other words, the fluid in the end chamber cannot flow from the end chamber into the side cavity 23.
[0074] Similar to the aforementioned embodiments, the end face pipe connector 1 may be provided with an end face 13 on the side of the first clamping part 11 away from the main body 12 as needed. The end face 13 may be provided as needed, for example, it may be a pagoda head, a connector with external or internal threads, or a blind plug, etc.
[0075] In another alternative implementation, refer to Figures 12 to 15 As shown, if the end face pipe joint 13 is only used for sealing, the end face 13 can be made into a blind plug structure without through holes.
[0076] In another optional embodiment, the end face of the pipe connector 1 is completely sealed at the end opposite to the first clamping part 11; that is, the end face pipe connector 1 in this embodiment does not have a third through hole 15. The end face pipe connector 1 in this embodiment is more suitable for application scenarios that require a complete seal at this end of the pipe body 3.
[0077] This application discloses a water distribution structure, characterized by including a pipe body 3 and water distributor plugs as described above. Preferably, there are multiple water distributor plugs, which are arranged along the circumferential direction of the pipe body 3. For example, while satisfying the structural requirements of the pipe body 3, the water distributor plugs can be configured such that the main body 12 of the end face pipe joint 1 forms multiple circumferentially arranged connecting portions 16, with each first through hole 31 corresponding to a second through hole 14 on the pipe wall 33 of the corresponding pipe body 3, and multiple side pipe joints 2 corresponding to multiple connecting portions 16, thereby forming multiple water distributor plug structures.
[0078] Since welding is not required, the water distribution structure in this embodiment can be well applied when the pipe body 3 is an aluminum pipe.
[0079] This embodiment provides a method for installing a manifold plug, which mainly includes the following steps: If a sealing ring is used for sealing, in this step, the sealing ring is first placed into the end face sealing groove of the end face pipe joint 1 and the side sealing groove of the side face pipe joint 2, respectively. If sealant is used for sealing, in this step, sealant is evenly applied into the sealing grooves.
[0080] The end-face pipe connector 1 is fitted onto the end of the pipe body 3. As mentioned above, the main body 12 can be inserted into the inside of the pipe body 3; or, the main body 12 can be fitted onto the outside of the pipe body 3. During insertion, the guide portion 18 (or the entire main body 12) of the end-face pipe connector 1 contacts and cooperates with the corresponding wall surface of the pipe body 3 to guide it smoothly, pushing the end-face pipe connector 1 to the installation position until the inner end face of the first clamping portion 11 is tightly fitted with the end face of the pipe body 3. At this time, the second through hole 14 on the connecting portion 16 of the main body 12 of the end-face pipe connector 1 is aligned with the first through hole 31 on the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3.
[0081] Insert the side connector 2 into the outer side of the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3, aligning it with the first through hole 31 on the pipe wall 33. The deformable part 22 of the side connector 2 passes through the first through hole 31 of the pipe body 3 and the second through hole 14 on the connecting part 16 of the end face connector 1, and continues to be pushed in until the inner end face of the second clamping part 21 is tightly fitted with the outer wall of the pipe body 3 or the outer wall of the connecting part 16. At this time, the deformable part 22 and the deformable pushing part 25 have completely entered the interior of the pipe body 3 and the main body 12 of the end face connector 1.
[0082] Screw the rivet gun's pull rod into the internal thread of the deformable push part 25 of the side pipe joint 2. Start the rivet gun; the pull rod applies an axial tensile force to the deformable push part 25. Under this tensile force, the deformable part 22 bears an axial load. When the load exceeds its material yield limit, the deformable part 22 undergoes radial plastic deformation, and the wall bulges outward, forming a radially outward protrusion 24. This protrusion 24, together with the second clamping part 21, clamps the pipe wall 33 of the pipe body 3 and the connecting part 16 of the end pipe joint 1, firmly riveting the three together as one.
[0083] In an alternative implementation, the side pipe joint 2 is designed with a fracture separation structure. The rivet gun continues to apply force until the deformable propulsion part 25 breaks at the weak point and detaches from the side pipe joint 2, thus completing the entire installation process.
[0084] By following the steps described above, the manifold plug can be installed quickly and reliably in confined spaces without any welding or threading at the three ends of the pipe. The entire installation process is simple, requires minimal operator skills, and is easy to maintain and replace.
[0085] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.
[0086] It should be understood that the above description is for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. Many embodiments and applications beyond the provided examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of this teaching should not be determined by reference to the above description, but rather by reference to the foregoing claims and the full scope of their equivalents. For purposes of completeness, all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference. The omission of any aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein in the foregoing claims is not intended as a waiver of that subject matter, nor should it be construed as an indication that the applicant has not considered that subject matter as part of the disclosed application subject matter.
Claims
1. A manifold plug for a pipe body, the pipe body having an inner cavity, and a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity being formed in the pipe wall of the pipe body; characterized in that, The distributor plug includes an end face pipe joint and a side pipe joint; The end face pipe joint includes a first clamping part and a body. The first clamping part abuts against the end face of the pipe body. One end of the body is connected to the first clamping part. The body is sleeved on the end of the pipe body and extends in a direction away from the first clamping part. The body includes a connecting part extending along the extension direction of the body. The connecting part is provided with a second through hole. The side fitting includes a second clamping part, a deformable part, and a side cavity formed by the second clamping part and the deformable part. The deformable part passes through the first through hole of the tube body and the second through hole of the main body and is located at least partially in the inner cavity of the tube body. The deformable part located in the inner cavity of the tube body includes a protrusion that protrudes radially outward, thereby clamping the connecting part of the main body and the tube body with the protrusion and the second clamping part.
2. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side pipe joint also includes a deformation propulsion part connected to the deformable part on the side away from the second clamping part. The deformation propulsion part has an internal thread and is used to cooperate with the pull rod of the rivet gun during riveting. After the deformable part is riveted, the deformation propulsion part is connected to the deformable part or disengaged from the deformable part.
3. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body is inserted inside the tube, and the protrusion is riveted to the connecting part, so that the protrusion and the second pressing part abut against the inner wall of the main body and the outer wall of the tube, respectively; or, the main body is sleeved on the outer side of the tube wall, and the protrusion is riveted to the tube, so that the protrusion and the second pressing part abut against the inner wall of the tube and the outer wall of the connecting part, respectively.
4. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body has a third through hole at its end opposite to the first clamping part, which communicates the second through hole with the inner cavity of the tube body. The end face pipe connector also includes an end face portion disposed on the side of the first clamping part opposite to the main body. The end face portion is at least one of a pagoda head, a connector with external or internal threads, or a blind plug. And / or, the side fitting further includes a side portion disposed on the side of the second clamping portion away from the deformable portion, the side portion being at least one of a pagoda head, a fitting with external or internal threads, or a blind plug.
5. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side pipe joint further includes a deformation propulsion part and a sealing part. The deformation propulsion part is disposed on the side of the deformation part away from the second pressing part, and the sealing part is disposed on the side of the deformation propulsion part away from the second pressing part.
6. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body has a guide portion formed at one end opposite to the first pressing part. The guide portion is adapted to the tube body. Preferably, the main body is adapted to the tube body as a whole.
7. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body has a wall facing the second through hole, and an avoidance hole is provided on the wall of the main body. The projected area of the avoidance hole is larger than the projected area of the second through hole and covers the second through hole.
8. The distributor plug according to claim 1, characterized in that, An end-face sealing structure is provided between the first clamping part and the end face of the tube body, and / or a side sealing structure is provided between the second clamping part and the outer wall of the tube body.
9. A manifold plug assembly for a pipe body, the pipe body having an inner cavity, and a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity being formed in the pipe wall of the pipe body; characterized in that, This includes separate end face pipe joints and side pipe joints; The end face pipe connector includes a first clamping part and a body. One end of the body is connected to the first clamping part. The body includes a connecting part extending along the extension direction of the body. The connecting part is provided with a second through hole. The end face pipe connector is configured to be able to be sleeved on the end of the pipe body, so that the first clamping part abuts against the end face of the pipe body. The side pipe joint includes a second clamping part and a deformable part; the side pipe joint is configured to be able to be inserted into the first through hole of the pipe body and the second through hole of the connecting part, so that the second clamping part abuts against the outer side wall of the pipe body, and the deformable part is a protruding part that can undergo radial plastic deformation under the action of external force, thereby clamping and fixing the pipe body to the main body.
10. The distributor plug assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The main body has a guide portion formed at one end opposite to the first pressing part. The shape and outline of the guide portion match the outline of the tube body, or the overall shape and outline of the main body are adapted to the outline of the tube body.
11. The manifold plug assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, Before riveting, the outer circumferential surface of the deformed part is provided with a floral pattern.
12. The distributor plug assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The side pipe joint also includes a deformation propulsion part connected to the deformable part on the side away from the second clamping part. The deformation propulsion part has an internal thread and is used to cooperate with the pull rod of the rivet gun during riveting. After the deformable part is riveted, the deformation propulsion part is connected to the deformable part or disengaged from the deformable part.
13. The distributor plug assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The side pipe joint further includes a deformation propulsion part and a sealing part. The deformation propulsion part is disposed on the side of the deformation part away from the second pressing part, and the sealing part is disposed on the side of the deformation propulsion part away from the second pressing part.
14. The manifold plug assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first pressing part has an end face sealing groove on its end face facing the tube body for accommodating an end face sealing structure, and / or the second pressing part has a side sealing groove on its outer side wall facing the tube body for accommodating a side sealing structure.
15. The distributor plug assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The main body has a third through hole at one end away from the first pressing part, and the third through hole connects the second through hole to the inner cavity of the tube body; the end face pipe joint also includes an end face portion disposed on the side of the first pressing part away from the main body, the end face portion being at least one of a pagoda head, a connector with external or internal threads, or a blind plug, and / or, the side pipe joint also includes a side face portion disposed on the side of the second pressing part away from the deformed part, the side face portion being at least one of a pagoda head, a connector with external or internal threads, or a blind plug.
16. An end-face pipe fitting for use as a plug in a manifold, characterized in that, include: The first clamping part is used to abut against the end face of the pipe body; The main body is integrally formed with the first pressing part and extends in a direction away from the first pressing part. The main body includes a connecting part extending along the extension direction of the main body, and the connecting part is provided with a second through hole.
17. The end-face pipe connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, The main body has a guide portion formed at the end away from the first pressing part. The outline of the guide portion is set to match the outline of the tube to be connected. Preferably, the overall outline of the main body is adapted to the tube.
18. The end-face pipe connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, The main body has a third through hole at one end away from the first pressing part, and the third through hole is connected to the second through hole.
19. The end-face pipe connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, An end face sealing groove is provided on the outer periphery of the body on the end face of the first pressing part facing the body.
20. The end-face pipe connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes an end face portion disposed on the side of the first clamping part away from the main body, wherein the end face portion is at least one of a pagoda head, a connector with external or internal threads, or a blind plug.
21. The end-face pipe connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, The thickness of the first clamping part is determined according to the internal design pressure of the pipe to be connected.
22. The end-face pipe connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, The end face pipe joint has an integral structure.
23. A side pipe fitting for use as a manifold plug, characterized in that, include: Second clamping part; A deformable part for deformation, the deformable part having a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end of the deformable part being connected to the second clamping part; A deformation propulsion part is connected to the second end of the deformation part, which is used to cooperate with a riveting tool to apply axial tensile force to the deformation part.
24. The side pipe joint according to claim 23, characterized in that, Before riveting, the outer circumferential surface of the deformed part is provided with a floral pattern.
25. The side pipe joint according to claim 23, characterized in that, The side pipe joint also includes a sealing part, which is disposed on the side of the deformable propulsion part away from the second pressing part.
26. The side pipe joint according to claim 23, characterized in that, The deformable propulsion part is configured to break off after riveting is completed; or, after riveting is completed, the deformable propulsion part remains connected to the deformable part.
27. The side pipe joint according to claim 23, characterized in that, The second pressing part has a side sealing groove on the outer periphery of the deformed part on its end face facing the deformed part.
28. The side pipe joint according to claim 23, characterized in that, It also includes a side portion disposed on the side of the second pressing part away from the deformable part, wherein the side portion is at least one of a pagoda head, a connector with external or internal threads, or a blind plug.
29. The side pipe joint according to claim 23, characterized in that, The side pipe joint has an integral structure.
30. A water-dividing structure, characterized in that, Includes the pipe body and the distributor plug as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.
31. The water distribution structure according to claim 30, characterized in that, The number of the connecting parts and the side pipe joints is multiple, and the multiple connecting plates and the multiple side pipe joints are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence and are arranged along the circumferential direction of the pipe body.
32. The water distribution structure according to claim 30, characterized in that, The tube body is made of aluminum.
33. A method for installing a manifold plug, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Insert the end face pipe connector into the end of the pipe body from the side opening until the first clamping part of the end face pipe connector abuts against the end face of the pipe body. At this time, the second through hole on the connecting part of the main body of the end face pipe connector is aligned with the first through hole on the pipe wall. Insert the side pipe connector from the first through hole of the pipe body and through the second through hole of the main body; An axial tensile force is applied to the side pipe joint using a riveting tool, causing the deformable part of the side pipe joint to undergo radial plastic deformation under the action of the axial tensile force, thereby clamping and fixing the pipe wall of the pipe body to the main body.
34. The installation method according to claim 33, characterized in that, Before assembling the end face pipe fitting to the pipe body, a sealing ring is placed or sealant is applied in the end face sealing groove of the end face pipe fitting.
35. The installation method according to claim 33, characterized in that, Before inserting the side pipe fitting into the pipe body, place a sealing ring or apply sealant into the side sealing groove of the side pipe fitting.
36. The installation method according to claim 33, characterized in that, The side pipe joint also includes a deformation pushing part connected to the deformable part on the side away from the second clamping part. After riveting is completed, the deformation pushing part breaks off from the deformable part; or, the deformation pushing part remains connected to the deformable part.