Connection Assembly for Cylindrical Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection assemblies for cylindrical structures require tools, additional parts, or adhesives for mounting and often damage the structure upon removal, limiting their reusability and compatibility with various materials and wall thicknesses.
Innovation Solution
A connection assembly comprising a first and second part with locking means that can be manually locked without rotation, allowing for a purely mechanical connection suitable for any cylindrical material, with flexible flanges and sealing rings to ensure fluid flow and adaptability to different wall thicknesses, facilitating easy installation and removal without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional connection assemblies are used to connect a branch pipe to a cylindrical structure, then the connection can be secured, but tools, additional parts, or adhesives are required for mounting and the structure is damaged upon removal
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly is divided into two separate parts: a first part with a first flange positioned on the outer surface of the cylindrical structure, and a second part with a second flange positioned on the inner surface. These parts are connected through locking means that engage with each other, eliminating the need for additional fasteners, adhesives, or tools while simplifying the mounting operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting and securing functions are merged into a single integrated operation. The first and second parts together form a complete connection assembly that simultaneously clamps the cylindrical structure and locks itself in place through the engagement of locking means, removing the need for separate mounting steps or additional components.
2Reliability
If traditional connection assemblies are used, then the connection is secured, but the cylindrical structure is damaged and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second flanges are designed as flexible or elastic elements that can deform during the clamping process to accommodate the cylindrical structure, then return to their original shape to maintain a secure connection. This flexibility allows the connection to be firmly secured while avoiding permanent deformation or damage to the cylindrical structure, enabling its reuse.
3Manufacturing precision
If a connection assembly is designed to work with specific wall thicknesses, then the connection is precise, but it cannot be used with cylindrical structures of different materials or wall thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly incorporates flexible or elastic flanges that can dynamically adjust their shape and position during mounting. This dynamic capability allows the same assembly design to adapt to cylindrical structures with different wall thicknesses and materials while maintaining precise connection fit through the self-adjusting nature of the flexible components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection assembly is designed with universal applicability through its flexible flanges and locking mechanism that can accommodate various cylindrical structures regardless of material or wall thickness. The same basic assembly design serves multiple functions across different applications, eliminating the need for specialized designs for each specific cylindrical structure type.
4Reliability
If the connection assembly penetrates deeply into the cylindrical structure, then the connection is more secure, but the fluid flow is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The second part of the connection assembly is positioned within the opening of the cylindrical structure, with its flange on the inner surface. This nested arrangement allows the connection to be securely formed by the engagement of the first and second parts through the wall thickness, while the second part's positioning ensures minimal protrusion into the fluid flow path, thereby maintaining unblocked fluid flow.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
The invention relates to a connection assembly for connecting a branch pipe to a cylindrical structure which is provided with an opening, said connection assembly comprising: a first part and a second part, each comprising a tubular section having a diameter smaller than a diameter of said opening and a flange having a diameter larger than said diameter of said opening; wherein said first part and said second part are adapted for clamping said cylindrical structure between their respective flanges; wherein said tubular sections are provided with first locking means and second locking means respectively on facing surfaces of said tubular sections; wherein said first and second locking means are adapted for engaging each other for allowing linear movement of said flanges towards each other while said flanges remain substantially rotationally fixed relative to each other, and for blocking movement of said flanges away from each other.