Compact Pipe Connector for In-Wall Plumbing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional double wallplates are unsuitable for in-wall installations due to space requirements and are not compatible with concealed or in-wall plumbing systems, leading to potential stagnation and hygiene issues in pipe systems.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector with a U-shaped section and three connections, where the first and second connections are aligned parallel to each other and perpendicular to the third connection, allowing for compact and space-saving installation, minimizing pressure losses, and enabling connection to consumers and pipe lines in a single plane, suitable for series-pipe or ring-pipe systems, and produced in one piece for cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional double wallplates are used for pipe connections, then pipe connections can be made, but the device requires considerable space and is unsuitable for in-wall installations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connection functions into a single compact pipe connector body with three connections (first, second, and third connections) integrated into one piece. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate wallplate components and reduces the overall space required for installation, making it suitable for concealed in-wall installations while maintaining all necessary connection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe connector utilizes a three-dimensional configuration where connections are arranged in different spatial orientations (first and second connections in one plane, third connection perpendicular to that plane). This dimensional arrangement allows compact integration of multiple connection points within a small footprint, enabling in-wall installation while providing adequate accessibility for tool operation.
2Loss of energy
If conventional pipe connectors are used, then connections can be made, but pressure losses occur when medium flows through the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe connector incorporates a U-shaped pipe section with smooth curved transitions instead of sharp angles or abrupt direction changes. This curved geometry reduces flow separation and turbulence when medium flows from the first connection through the U-shaped section to the second connection, thereby minimizing pressure losses while maintaining a relatively simple one-piece structure.
3Area of stationary object
If connections are arranged compactly, then space is saved, but accessibility for tool connection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe connector arranges the first and second connections in one plane while positioning the third connection perpendicular to that plane. This multi-planar configuration allows compact integration of all three connections within a small overall footprint suitable for in-wall installation, while simultaneously providing adequate accessibility to each connection point for tool operation from different directions.
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 efficient water flow with minimal pressure losses, prevents stagnation, and facilitates easy, space-saving installation in concealed or in-wall installations, reducing the risk of unhygienic conditions and minimizing material usage.
Implementation Method 1
Pressure losses in the pipe connector when a medium, for example, water, is passed via the first connection to the second connection are consequently only slight
Implementation Method 2
The connections comprise at least one press sleeve, which is radially deformed by means of a press tool, as a result of which the connection end of a pipe surrounded by the press sleeve is pressed against a supporting member of the press fitting and pipe connector and sealed
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pipe connector (RVS), comprising a first connection (AS1), a second connection (AS2) and a third connection (AS3). Longitudinal axes (LA1, LA2, LA3) of the connections (AS1, AS2, AS3) are located substantially in a first plane (El). The first connection (AS1) and the second connection (AS2) are arranged on a common side in relation to a second plane (E2), wherein the second plane (E2) is aligned perpendicular to the first plane (E1) and runs through the longitudinal axis (LA3) of the third connection (AS3). The first connection (AS1) and the second connection (AS2) are linked by means of a U-shaped pipe section (UA), wherein an elongated pipe section (LA) has the third connection (AS3) being formed out from the U-shaped pipe section (UA). The first connection (AS1) and the second connection (AS2) are spaced from one another in such a manner that the first connection (AS1) and the second connection (AS2) are accessible for connection of pipe lines by means of a tool, in particular a pressing tool (PW). The invention further relates to an arrangement with a pipe connector (RVS).