Flue Pipe Assembly With Integrated Connecting Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flue pipe assemblies for domestic gas appliances lack reliable mechanical and electrical connections, leading to instability and potential gas leakage, especially when non-standard pipes are used or assembled by untrained workers.
Innovation Solution
A flue pipe assembly with a pipe connection mechanism that establishes both mechanical and electrical connections between pipe sections using a connecting ring with electrical terminals, ensuring stable and reliable connections, and includes a switch for feedback in case of disconnection, preventing gas leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate mechanical connection means and electrical connection means are used for pipe sections, then the connection can be established, but the installation time increases and the connection stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical connection means and electrical connection means into a single integrated connecting ring structure. The connecting ring simultaneously provides mechanical fastening through its clamping structure and electrical connection through integrated electrical terminals, eliminating the need for separate connection components and reducing installation steps while improving overall connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting ring is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple functions: mechanical fastening of pipe sections, electrical connection between conductors, and structural support. This universal component replaces what would traditionally require separate specialized components for each function, streamlining the installation process.
2Ease of manufacture
If nonstandard pipes or untrained workers are used for assembly, then cost is reduced, but connection stability decreases and gas leakage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting ring incorporates self-aligning features and self-clamping mechanisms that automatically ensure proper connection geometry and tightness without requiring skilled operators. The design includes built-in positioning structures that guide pipe sections into correct alignment and self-adjusting clamping elements that automatically apply appropriate fastening force, making the assembly process foolproof for untrained workers.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated electrical terminals provide immediate electrical feedback when pipe sections are properly connected. The electrical continuity established through the terminals serves as a verification mechanism that confirms successful mechanical connection, providing real-time feedback to both the installation system and ultimately to the gas appliance controller to confirm safe operation.
3Reliability
If electrical conductors are added to pipe sections for connection status monitoring, then safety feedback is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical terminals are integrated directly into the mechanical connecting ring structure, combining the electrical connection function with the mechanical fastening function in a single component. This integration eliminates the need for separate electrical connection devices and reduces the overall structural complexity while maintaining safety feedback capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting ring serves as both a mechanical fastener and an electrical connector, performing multiple functions simultaneously. The electrical terminals embedded in the connecting ring provide connection status monitoring while the same structure provides mechanical support and fastening, reducing the total number of components needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a flue pipe assembly for a gas appliance including at least a first pipe section and a second pipe section, and a first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor attached to the first and the second pipe sections respectively. Wherein, the flue pipe assembly further includes a pipe connection mechanism, and the pipe connection mechanism is disposed between the first and the second pipe sections to establish a mechanical connection therebetween, and in the mean time to establish an electrical connection between the first and the second electrical conductors. In this way, reliable mechanical and electrical connections can be establish between pipe sections by the pipe connection mechanism.