Flanged Pipe Connection Block With Locking Plate Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connecting systems for automotive air conditioning are not suitable for pipes with flanges, as they require additional elements to achieve fluid continuity and secure the pipes to the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connecting system using a plastics material connecting block with hook-shaped retaining portions and a metal locking plate that engages flanged portions of the pipes, allowing direct connection and secure fixation of pipes without additional elements, utilizing a locking plate to hold the pipes between the connecting block and the locking plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional pipe connecting system is used, then pipes without flanges can be connected, but it cannot accommodate pipes with flanges
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting block is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate both flanged and non-flanged pipes. The internal cavity and positioning features are configured to adaptively receive different pipe types, allowing the same connecting block to perform multiple connection functions without requiring different connection systems for different pipe configurations.
2Reliability
If additional elements are used to connect flanged pipes, then fluid continuity can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting block integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides fluid passage continuity through its internal cavity, secures flanged pipes through positioning features and fastening mechanisms, and connects to other pipes through its external interface. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate elements for each purpose, achieving reliable fluid continuity while reducing overall device complexity.
3Device complexity
If a simple connecting block is used, then device complexity is reduced, but pipes cannot be securely fixed to the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into functional zones within the connecting block: an internal cavity for receiving and positioning flanged pipes, positioning features for secure alignment, fastening mechanisms for rigid fixation, and external interfaces for connecting to other pipes. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function effectively, ensuring reliable pipe fixation while maintaining overall structural efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A pipe connecting system comprising a connecting block (10) having a first side (11) intended to receive a first pipe (2) and a second pipe (3), and a second side (12) intended to receive a third pipe (4) and a fourth pipe (5), wherein the connecting block (10) comprises a first block part (13) and a second block part (14) made of plastics material and configured to be fastened to each other around flared ends (2a, 3a) of the first pipe (2) and the second pipe (3); wherein the second block part comprises lateral retaining portions (14g) configured to engage respective lateral edges (13g) of the first block part; wherein the pipe connecting system further comprises a locking plate (15) made of metal material, configured to engage simultaneously the flanged portions (2b, 3b) of the first pipe (2) and the second pipe (3), the locking plate (15) being fixable to the connecting block (10) by at least one screw (16).