Flexible Downspout Connector with Nested Adapter Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible downspout extensions lack the ability to adapt to different downspout sizes, are prone to cuts and tears, and require pivotal connections or cutting to accommodate various dimensions, limiting their versatility and interchangeability.
Innovation Solution
A flexible downspout connector apparatus featuring a flexible extension pipe with nested adapter members of different sizes, allowing for telescopic connection and releasable locking to accommodate various downspout sizes without the need for cutting, and enabling interchangeability among extensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flaccid, collapsible hose-like device is used to extend the downspout, then the device can be easily installed and moved, but it is subject to cuts and tears and lacks durability
Solution Approach 1:
The downspout extension device combines a flexible hose made of durable, cut-resistant material with a rigid protective collar. The composite structure integrates the flexibility and ease of installation of the hose with the durability and cut resistance of the rigid collar, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed dimensions are used for attachment to downspouts, then the connection is simple and straightforward, but it does not accommodate variations in downspout dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism transitions from fixed, static dimensions to a dynamic, adjustable system. The collar includes an adjustable clamping mechanism that can adapt to various downspout diameters, allowing the same device to connect to different downspout sizes while maintaining a simple connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The downspout extension device is designed with universal adaptability to work with multiple downspout sizes and configurations. The adjustable collar and flexible hose combination creates a multi-functional attachment system that can accommodate various downspout dimensions without requiring different specialized devices.
3Reliability
If a rigid extension is used, then it can withstand cuts and tears, but it requires pivotal connections and cannot be swung around the downspout freely
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a rigid protective collar for durability and a flexible hose for movement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function - the rigid collar provides cut resistance while the flexible hose enables free swinging and positioning without requiring pivotal connections.
4Adaptability or versatility
If different sized adapters are used for different downspout sizes, then various downspout dimensions can be accommodated, but the device complexity increases and interchangeability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter system uses a nested design where a smaller diameter adapter can be inserted within a larger diameter adapter. This nesting arrangement allows a single universal adapter component to accommodate multiple downspout sizes by selectively positioning the appropriate adapter section, thereby maintaining adaptability while reducing device complexity and improving interchangeability.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible downspout connector apparatus includes a flexible extension pipe, and a first adapter member and a second adapter member, both nested together at one end of the pipe. The first adapter member includes a connection portion for connecting to a downspout outlet end of a first size, and the second adapter member includes a connection portion for connecting to a downspout outlet of a second size. The second adapter member is releasably telescoped with respect to the first adapter member and may be left in place or removed at the option of the user to accommodate for different downspout outlet end sizes.