Drain Pipe Joint Device with Resilient Annular Seal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drain pipe joint configurations, particularly those involving nuts and tailpieces, can be difficult to access and manipulate, especially in installations where space is limited, such as under sinks or through ceiling drywall.
Innovation Solution
A joint device for drain pipes comprising a structural tube with a resilient annular seal, designed to form a waterproof connection between a tailpiece and a lower drain pipe, allowing for easy assembly and secure sealing without the need for additional tools or space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a nut-based connection is used to join drain pipes, then the connection can be detached for maintenance, but the nut is difficult to access and manipulate in limited spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the nut component from the connection system entirely. Instead of using a nut that requires manipulation from the side, the invention uses a push-fit mechanism where the tailpiece is simply inserted into the joint device, eliminating the need for tools and complex manipulation in tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional components: a structural tube providing the connection body, an annular seal providing the sealing function, and a tailpiece providing the insertable component. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring complex assembly of multiple fastening elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a nut-based connection is used to join drain pipes, then the connection can be detached for maintenance, but sufficient clearance space is required to manipulate a wrench
Solution Approach 1:
The tailpiece is nested within the joint device structure. The tailpiece inserts into the structural tube and is retained by the annular seal, creating a compact nested arrangement that fits within the existing plumbing space without requiring additional clearance for tool manipulation.
3Reliability
If a traditional nut connection is used, then the joint can be assembled and disassembled, but the sealing engagement is difficult to achieve without proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The annular seal is positioned on the joint device to automatically engage with the tailpiece upon insertion. The seal's resilient material allows it to deform and conform to the tailpiece surface, creating a reliable seal without requiring precise alignment or additional fastening operations by the installer.
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 joint device provides a secure, waterproof connection that is easy to install and maintain, reducing the complexity and space requirements associated with traditional nut-based connections.
Implementation Method 1
an annular seal of resilient sealing material integrally connected to an upper portion of the structural tube... the annular seal having inner diametrical dimensions for sealing engagement with a tailpiece
Data Source
AI summary
A joint device for drain pipes comprises a structural tube made of a rigid material and providing structural integrity to the joint device. The structural tube defines at least part of a drain passage of the joint device, a bottom portion of the structural tube having diametrical dimensions for complementary sealing engagement with a pipe of a drain network. An annular seal of resilient sealing material is integrally connected to an upper portion of the structural tube to define at least an inner surface of a portion of the drain passage of the joint device, the annular seal having inner diametrical dimensions for sealing engagement with a tailpiece slid downwardly into engagement with the joint device.