Corrugated Pipe Lateral Connector With Full-Circumference Compression Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lateral connectors for corrugated pipes in underground water systems are cumbersome to install and often provide insufficient sealing, requiring a large number of sizes to accommodate varying pipe diameters.
Innovation Solution
A hub and sleeve assembly is designed for corrugated pipes, featuring a sleeve with pipe stop features and a hub that forms a compressive seal around the entire circumference when inserted, accommodating pipes with varying thicknesses and preventing fluid leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lateral connectors are used for corrugated pipes, then multiple connector sizes are needed to accommodate varying pipe diameters, but this increases device complexity and inventory requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple pipe sizes through a single design. The compression fitting mechanism works with pipes of varying diameters by adjusting the compression force, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connectors for different pipe sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes variable compression force as a parameter to adapt to different pipe sizes. By changing the compression parameter rather than the physical structure, the same connector can effectively seal and secure pipes of various diameters within its design range.
2Reliability
If traditional lateral connectors are used, then installation is time-consuming and cumbersome, but this increases installation time and labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional multi-step mechanical assembly process is replaced with a compression-based fitting mechanism. The connector is inserted into the pipe and secured through axial compression, which simultaneously achieves both mechanical attachment and sealing in a single motion, eliminating the need for separate gasket installation and multiple fastening steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function and mechanical attachment function are merged into a single compression action. The same compression force that secures the connector to the pipe also creates the seal, combining two previously separate functions into one integrated mechanism that reduces installation steps.
3Ease of operation
If traditional connectors are used, then sealing is insufficient and fluid leaks may occur, but this compromises system reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a localized sealing element or sealing surface at the critical interface with the pipe. This localized feature concentrates the sealing function at the most important location, ensuring reliable fluid tightness while keeping the rest of the connector structure simple and easy to install.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector may utilize composite material construction combining different material properties - such as a harder outer structure for durability and ease of installation with a softer sealing surface for reliable sealing. This composite approach allows the same component to be both easy to install and highly reliable in preventing leaks.
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 reliable and efficient sealing connection between corrugated pipes and connecting or branch pipes, reducing installation complexity and accommodating various pipe sizes without the need for multiple connector sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a compressive seal is formed between the hub and sleeve assembly and the inner pipe wall such that the hub and sleeve assembly is sealingly engaged with the inner pipe wall
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A pipe junction includes a corrugated pipe (10) including a pipe wall having an inner pipe wall (13) and an outer pipe wall (15), the outer pipe wall having a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys disposed between the plurality of peaks, and an opening (8) through the pipe wall. The corrugated pipe junction includes a hub and sleeve assembly (20) received within the opening (8) of the pipe wall, the hub and sleeve assembly (20) including a hub (24) received within the sleeve (22). When the hub and sleeve assembly (20) is received within the opening (8) of the pipe wall, a compressive seal is formed between the hub and sleeve assembly (20) and the inner pipe wall (13) such that the hub and sleeve assembly (20) is sealingly engaged with the inner pipe wall (13) around an entire circumference of the hub and sleeve assembly (20).