Tool-Free Gas Pipe Connector for Secure Cooker Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas cooking appliances face challenges in providing a reliable and safe connection between gas pipes and devices, often requiring tools for assembly and maintenance, and lacking robustness and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A connecting arrangement featuring a one-piece connecting device with an insertion part and a gripping section that securely attaches a gas pipe to a gas connection without the need for tools, utilizing a meshing section and a sealing device to ensure axial stability and hermetic sealing, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional connecting device is used to connect the gas pipe to the gas connection, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the assembly process requires tools and is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is divided into two functional sections: a gripping section with external gripping elements for holding the gas pipe, and an insertion part with meshing elements for engagement with the gas connection. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device is designed to be self-installing without requiring external tools. The gripping section automatically grips the gas pipe when inserted, and the meshing section automatically engages with the gas connection's internal threading, allowing the entire assembly to be completed by simple insertion movements.
2Productivity
If a traditional connecting device with separate components is used, then the connection is secure, but the assembly and disassembly process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping section and insertion part are merged into a single integrated connecting device that performs both functions simultaneously. When the device is inserted into the gas connection, the gripping elements automatically engage with the gas pipe while the meshing elements engage with the gas connection, completing the assembly in one motion rather than requiring separate steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements are pre-positioned on the connecting device in such a way that they automatically engage with the gas pipe's external gripping elements during insertion. This preliminary positioning ensures that the gripping action occurs before final engagement with the gas connection, securing the pipe in advance and preventing misalignment.
3Reliability
If a simple plug connection is used without additional securing mechanisms, then the assembly is easy, but the connection may accidentally disconnect
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device incorporates a dynamic gripping mechanism where the gripping elements can elastically deform during insertion to accommodate the gas pipe, then maintain continuous gripping force to prevent disconnection. This dynamic adaptation ensures reliable connection while requiring minimal assembly effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device acts as an intermediary component between the gas pipe and the gas connection, providing both gripping elements that secure the pipe and meshing elements that engage with the connection's threading. This intermediary structure transfers and distributes forces evenly, preventing accidental disconnection while maintaining ease of assembly.
4Reliability
If a multi-component connecting device is used, then the connection is secure, but the manufacturing cost is higher
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping section and insertion part are merged into a single molded or machined component, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing processes and assembly steps for multiple parts. This integration reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the secure connection functionality through the combined gripping and meshing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: gripping the gas pipe, engaging with the gas connection's threading, and providing sealing surfaces. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components, reducing the total number of parts and associated manufacturing costs.
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
This solution simplifies the assembly process, enhances safety by eliminating the need for tools, and provides a robust connection that prevents accidental disconnection of the gas pipe, ensuring reliable gas flow while being cost-effective to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
a sealing device (18) mounted in said opening tubular space (8) between said pipe outer surface (12) and said opening inner surface (7)... ensuring hermetic sealing
Implementation Method 2
a gripping section (16) in contact with said pipe outer surface (12), thereby limiting the movement of said gas pipe (10) at least axially
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting arrangement of a gas pipe (10) of a gas appliance to a gas connection (5) of a gas device (4) of the gas appliance comprising a connecting device (13) to connect the gas pipe (10) to the gas connection (5). To achieve a safer and more reliable connection between the gas pipe (10) and the gas connection (5), the connecting device (13) is inserted between the gas pipe (10) and the gas connection (5). The invention also comprises a gas appliance with such a connecting arrangement and the assembly process of the connecting arrangement.