Eccentric Universal Joint for Lateral Pipe Misalignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing expansion joints struggle to securely connect pipes when there is lateral displacement between them, as they are primarily designed to absorb axial displacement.
Innovation Solution
An eccentric universal joint mechanism comprising a first sleeve, a second sleeve, and an eccentric universal joint with eccentric pipes that allow for rotational adjustment to align axes, enabling secure connection despite axial and lateral displacements, using packings and housings to maintain alignment and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the axes of openings in eccentric pipes are made eccentric, then rotational adjustment capability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention deliberately introduces asymmetry by making the axes of the openings in each eccentric pipe eccentric to each other. This asymmetric design is intentional and functional, enabling the rotational adjustment capability that allows the joint to accommodate both axial and lateral displacements, transforming a potential manufacturing challenge into a functional advantage
2Reliability
If packing is added to cover joining areas, then sealing performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces packing as an intermediary sealing element at the joining areas between components. This packing layer mediates the connection between the eccentric pipes and sleeves, ensuring reliable sealing while maintaining the overall simplicity of the structure. The packing is positioned strategically to provide sealing without adding significant complexity to the device
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 mechanism effectively absorbs both axial and lateral displacements, ensuring a secure and stable connection between pipes by adjusting the rotational position of the eccentric pipes, maintaining alignment without additional rotation, and using packings for sealing.
Implementation Method 1
a second eccentric pipe joined to the second sleeve and rotatably joined to the first eccentric pipe
Data Source
AI summary
An eccentric universal joint mechanism, even when there is a lateral displacement between a first pipe and a second pipe, can absorb the displacement and connect the first pipe and the second pipe. The eccentric universal joint mechanism includes: a first sleeve; a second sleeve; and an eccentric universal joint connecting the first sleeve and the second sleeve. The eccentric universal joint includes a first eccentric pipe, and a second eccentric pipe rotatably joined to the first eccentric pipe. A displacement between the center line of the first eccentric pipe and the center line of the second eccentric pipe is determined by the rotational position of the second eccentric pipe.