Copper Leak Detector Crimping for Leak-Free Vertical Pipe Sealing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing leak detectors for copper water pipe systems face challenges in achieving a leak-free and durable connection, as traditional methods are costly and prone to failure due to the higher strength of copper materials.

Innovation Solution

A copper-made cup-type leak detector with a crimping mechanism using an M crimping jaw and O-ring for secure attachment to vertical pipes, ensuring a reliable seal and easy installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional connection methods (hose clamp or snap locking) are used for copper pipes, then the leak detector can be installed, but a leak-free and durable connection cannot be guaranteed due to the higher strength of copper material

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (hose clamps, snap lockings) with a crimping mechanism that uses a crimping tool to permanently deform the copper pipe and leak detector assembly together, creating a more reliable mechanical bond that overcomes the high strength of copper material

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection assembly combines multiple materials (copper pipe, leak detector body, sealing member) into a composite structure where each material contributes its specific properties, with the crimping process integrating these materials into a unified, leak-free connection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If a two-part detector is manufactured to fit around the pipe, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetector adaptabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The leak detector is designed with a universal connection mechanism that can accommodate different pipe sizes and configurations through the standardized crimping interface, eliminating the need for multiple specialized two-part detector designs for different pipe dimensions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If glue and sealing tape are used to seal the connection, then sealing is achieved, but the connection is not durable and maintenance is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection durabilityVSAvoidmaintenance frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces chemical sealing methods (glue, sealing tape) with a mechanical crimping system that creates a permanent physical bond and seal, eliminating the need for ongoing maintenance and providing long-term connection durability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The crimping connection is designed to be self-sealing and self-securing, where the deformation process automatically creates both the mechanical bond and the seal without requiring additional materials or subsequent maintenance interventions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 provides a fast, reliable, and leak-free connection around copper pipes, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring effective leak detection without compromising the integrity of the copper system.

Implementation Method 1

a crimping point provided with a sealing member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the leak detector is crimped onto the vertical pipe at the location of the sealing member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPlasticity: Plasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3722650B1A leak detector and a method of installing a leak detector
Publication Date: 2023.01.25 SILOTEK OY
  • EP3722650B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3722650B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3722650B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method of installing a leak detector around the vertical pipe of a pipeline and a leak detector. In the method a leak detector made of copper is threaded around the vertical pipe of a pipeline, the leak detector comprising a cup part (1) having an edge (4) and an indentation tapering towards the centreline, the end of which opposite the edge (4) of the indentation is provided with a connection conduit. (6). The vertical pipe can be arranged through the connection conduit (6) and the connection conduit is provided with a crimping point (5) having a sealing member. During installation the leak detector is crimped onto the vertical pipe at the location of the sealing member (5).