Connector Piece Design for Fluid Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for floor distribution of hot and cold water often result in a pressure drop due to narrowing of the line cross-section and require high manufacturing tolerances, and are prone to seal failure under lateral forces.
Innovation Solution
A connection piece design without a support nipple, featuring long circumferential guide surfaces and a clamping/claw element for secure axial locking, ensuring a fluid-tight seal even under lateral forces and maintaining the usable line cross-section.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a support nipple is used in the connector, then the mechanical strength of the connection is improved, but the usable line cross-section is narrowed leading to pressure drop
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the support nipple component entirely from the connector design. Instead of using a separate support nipple element, the connection achieves mechanical strength through the clamping ring that directly clamps the inserted tube to the connector body, eliminating the need for the support nipple while maintaining connection strength and preserving the full line cross-section.
Solution Approach 2:
The support and clamping functions are merged into a single clamping ring component. The clamping ring simultaneously provides axial securing of the tube and radial clamping force to maintain the tube's circular cross-section, eliminating the need for separate support and clamping elements and thus avoiding cross-section narrowing.
2Reliability
If a support nipple is used in the connector, then the pipe is supported, but high manufacturing tolerances are required for the pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the support mechanism from a fixed geometric support nipple to a compliant clamping ring that can adapt to variations in tube dimensions. The clamping ring's elastic or resilient properties allow it to accommodate manufacturing tolerances in the tube while maintaining reliable support and sealing contact.
3Ease of operation
If the connector is designed without axial securing elements, then the installation is simpler, but the seal is lost under lateral forces
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping ring is designed with dynamic compliance, allowing it to deform and adapt to lateral forces while maintaining the seal. The ring's elastic properties enable it to flex under lateral loads and return to its original position, preserving the seal without requiring complex axial securing elements or retention features.
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 prevents pressure drop, ensures a secure and long-lasting seal, and is suitable for various pipe materials, including all-plastic pipes, without compromising on manufacturing tolerances or durability.
Implementation Method 1
an annular sealing element (150) which is inserted into a circumferential recess (116) formed in the first tubular part (112) and which surrounds the second tubular part (160) in the connected state
Implementation Method 2
a ring sealing element (150) which is inserted into a circumferential recess (116) formed in the first tubular part (112) and which surrounds the second tubular part (160) in the connected state
Implementation Method 3
two circumferential guide surfaces for the second tubular part (160), namely a first guide surface (122) in the area of an inner lateral surface of the first tubular part (112) and a second guide surface (117) arranged behind the first guide surface (122)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~8B
AI summary
The piece (111) has a tubular part connected with another tubular part of a fluid conducting line system. A circumferential guide surface (117) arranged behind another circumferential guide surface (122) with respect to an insertion opening of the piece. A circumferential recess (116) is located for a lip sealing (150) between the guide surfaces. Axial extensions of the guide surfaces represent quarter inner dimensions of the tubular parts. The piece is designed such that an inner mantle area of the tubular parts does not contact the piece in a connected condition. An independent claim is also included for an arrangement for distribution of cold water and hot water.