Connector With Elastic Sealing Element For Multi-Diameter Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection pieces for tubes and lines lack a reliable and efficient method to securely connect components of different diameters, particularly in applications where assembly is complex or under time pressure, such as in ground installations, and may cause damage or require additional clamps.
Innovation Solution
A connection piece comprising a sleeve element and a softer sealing element, where the sleeve encloses the sealing element radially and provides stability, with the sealing element forming a grommet that automatically attaches to the line due to elastic properties, allowing for easy assembly and secure hold without external clamps, and optionally featuring a corrugated surface for enhanced flexibility and form-fitting engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connection piece is used to connect tubes and lines of different diameters, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection piece is divided into two distinct elements: a softer sealing element for sealing the tube opening and a harder sleeve element for providing structural stability and enclosing the sealing element. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall connection reliability while maintaining relatively simple assembly through sequential insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is nested within the sleeve element, with the sleeve element enclosing the sealing element radially. This nested structure allows the softer sealing element to be protected and positioned by the harder sleeve element, ensuring reliable sealing while the entire assembly remains compact and manageable during installation.
2Reliability
If the sealing element is softer to provide sealing, then sealing performance is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection piece employs local quality by using a softer sealing element specifically at the tube opening interface where sealing is required, while the outer sleeve element uses a harder material to provide structural stability and mechanical strength. This localized differentiation of material properties ensures optimal sealing performance without compromising overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection piece utilizes composite construction with two different materials: a softer elastomeric material for the sealing element and a harder plastic material for the sleeve element. This composite approach combines the advantages of both materials - the sealing element provides conformal sealing through its softness while the sleeve element provides rigidity and structural support.
3Strength
If additional clamps are used to secure the connection, then connection strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element utilizes its elastic material properties to automatically attach itself to the outer wall surface of the cable or line when pushed in, creating a secure connection without requiring additional external clamps or fastening mechanisms. The elastic deformation and recovery of the sealing element provide the necessary holding force, simplifying the assembly process to a single insertion action.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the grommet is closed initially to protect the opening, then protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grommet is pre-closed with a membrane or plug in its initial state to protect the opening before the line needs to be inserted. This preliminary protective action prevents contamination or damage to the opening during storage and installation preparation, while the protective closure is designed to be easily removed or torn open when line insertion is required, balancing protection with operational ease.
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 enables quick, reliable, and damage-free assembly of tubes and lines of different diameters, ensuring a secure connection without external clamps, suitable for complex installations like those in ground housings, and provides flexibility to accommodate varying curvature and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the elastic material properties, the grommet automatically attaches itself to the outer wall surface of the cable when it is pushed in
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to the use of a connector (1) comprising a sleeve element (2) and a sealing element (3) that is softer than the sleeve element (2), wherein the sealing element (3) defines an opening (4) and forms a nozzle (3.1), in which a pipe (5) and a line (30), which has a smaller outer diameter than the pipe (5), are assembled via the connector (1), for which purpose an end (5.1) of the pipe (5) is inserted into the opening (4) of the sealing element (3) and the line (30) is inserted into the nozzle (3.1) of the sealing element (3), wherein the sleeve element (2) surrounds the sealing element (3), in which the end (5.1) of the pipe (5) and the line (30) are arranged, in directions perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (4.1) of the opening (4) outwards.