Bulkhead Fitting With Interchangeable Base Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bulkhead fittings for irrigation systems are limited to specific pipe diameters and cannot be easily adapted for use with poly-lined pipes, especially in corrosive environments where welding is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A bulkhead fitting with a hollow stem and interchangeable base rings, along with a seal washer and O-ring system, allows for secure attachment to pipes of different diameters, using a threaded stem portion and a nut with selective locking mechanisms to prevent loosening, enabling use with both six and eight inch diameter pipes and accommodating various diameters by swapping base rings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a bulkhead fitting is designed for a specific pipe diameter, then it provides a secure connection for that diameter, but it cannot be used with pipes of different diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The bulkhead fitting is divided into two main segments: a universal stem portion that provides the secure connection mechanism, and interchangeable base rings that adapt to different pipe diameters. This segmentation allows the fitting to maintain reliable connections while accommodating various pipe sizes by simply swapping base rings.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem portion of the bulkhead fitting is designed as a universal component that can work with multiple pipe diameters through the use of different base rings. The stem includes a threaded portion that engages with the pipe and an externally threaded portion that accepts sprinkler plumbing, making it adaptable to various applications while maintaining secure connections.
2Strength
If welding is used to attach the bulkhead fitting to the pipe, then a strong permanent connection is achieved, but it becomes impossible to use with polyethylene-lined pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The welding process is replaced with a mechanical fastening system consisting of a nut threadably mounted on the stem portion. This mechanical connection achieves sufficient holding strength without requiring thermal processes, thereby enabling use with polyethylene-lined pipes that cannot withstand welding heat.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method transitions from thermal (welding) to mechanical (threaded fastening), changing the fundamental parameter of how the fitting attaches to the pipe. This parameter change allows the same fitting design to work with both metal and polyethylene-lined pipes while maintaining adequate connection strength.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple fittings are maintained for different pipe diameters, then each fitting is optimized for its specific diameter, but inventory requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting system is segmented into a universal stem portion and separate base ring components. Each base ring is designed for a specific pipe diameter, but since the stem portion remains the same across all variants, the system reduces inventory complexity compared to having completely different fittings for each diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple base rings designed for different pipe diameters can be combined with a single universal stem portion. This merging approach allows the organization to maintain a limited inventory of stem components while having access to multiple diameter options through interchangeable base rings, thereby reducing overall inventory requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution allows for easy adaptation to different pipe diameters and ensures a secure, leak-proof connection, reducing inventory needs and maintaining the fitting's integrity in corrosive environments.
Implementation Method 1
An O-ring is positioned between the base ring and the stem fitting to provide a seal therebetween
Implementation Method 2
The recessed area of the base ring receives a seal washer positioned therein
Implementation Method 3
A nut is threadably mounted on the externally threaded portion of the stem portion to sealably maintain the hollow stem fitting on the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A bulkhead fitting which may be used on either six inch or eight inch diameter irrigation pipes through the use of an interchangeable base ring. The fitting includes a stem fitting having an interchangeable base ring mounted thereon which is extended upwardly through an outlet opening in an irrigation pipe. An upper washer is mounted on the stem portion of the stem fitting and is maintained thereon through the use of a nut which is threadably mounted on the upper end of the stem fitting. A locking mechanism is provided which prevents the inadvertent loosening of the nut with respect to the stem fitting.