Connector With Locking Ring and Press-Fit End

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connectors fail to provide a simple and quick method for connecting different pipeline systems, such as metal and plastic or plastic-metal composite pipes, which are commonly used in building services, due to the time-consuming nature of pressing connections and the lack of a consistent clamping force.

Innovation Solution

A connector design featuring a first connection end with a locking ring and annular space for receiving a pipe end, and a second connection end designed for pressing with a metal tube or socket, utilizing a clamping ring that can be fixed axially to resist pull-out forces, ensuring a secure and consistent connection without requiring special adaptations of the pipelines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If press fitting is used to connect different pipeline systems, then connection reliability is improved, but installation time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two distinct connection ends: a first connection end with a locking ring and annular space for quick insertion of plastic pipes, and a second connection end designed for press fitting to metal pipes. This segmentation allows each end to be optimized for its specific connection type, enabling rapid connection of plastic pipes without press fitting while maintaining reliable connection to metal pipes through the press fitting end.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a universal connector design is used for different pipe types, then adaptability is improved, but clamping force consistency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different pipe typesVSAvoidclamping force consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Each connection end is designed with locally optimized features: the first connection end has a locking ring with an annular space and clamping means specifically configured for plastic pipes with outer diameters of 16-20mm, while the second connection end has features optimized for metal pipe press fitting. This local quality approach ensures that each connection type receives the appropriate clamping force and connection characteristics for its specific material properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

This design allows for easy adaptation between different pipeline systems, simplifying assembly and ensuring a consistent clamping force, thereby improving the quality of the connection and reducing installation time.

Implementation Method 1

means are provided for clamping the end of the pipe pushed into the annular space against axially acting pull-out forces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the locking ring and the first supporting body form an annular space for receiving a pipe end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical Containment: Physical Containment

Data Source

PatentEP1840434B1Connector
Publication Date: 2011.03.23 KAIMER GMBH & CO HLDG
  • EP1840434B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1840434B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1840434B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The connector (1) has two connecting ends (4,5), where the former end is designed as a support body (7) provided with a lock ring (8). The later end is designed for pressing operation with insertion of metallic tube, or with wide collar-type socket of metallic tube, or with metallic press fitting. The later end is designed as another support body (21) and forms a single piece base (2) with the former support body.