Gasket-less Vent Pipe Coupling for Secure Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vent pipe coupling systems for fuel-burning appliances are difficult to assemble securely in tight spaces, such as attics and crawl spaces, due to the need for precise manipulation and the use of gaskets or silicone for sealing, which complicates the connection of vent pipe sections.
Innovation Solution
A double-walled vent pipe design featuring a ridge on the inner wall for gasket-less coupling, combined with a bayonet or twist-type outer wall coupling and a laser-welded seam, allows for secure and easy assembly of pipe sections without the need for additional sealing materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional male and female couplings are used on vent pipe sections, then the connection between pipe sections can be made, but the assembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into two functional parts: an outer coupling feature on the outer wall for mechanical connection, and an inner coupling feature (ridge) on the inner wall for sealing. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the sealing function and mechanical connection function into a single coupling operation. The ridge on the inner wall is positioned to engage with the corresponding groove in the same coupling action that connects the outer walls, eliminating the need for separate sealing steps.
2Reliability
If gaskets or silicone are used for sealing vent pipe connections, then sealing can be achieved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the sealing function from separate gaskets or silicone materials and integrates it directly into the pipe structure itself. The ridge formed on the inner wall serves as the sealing element, eliminating the need for additional sealing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe sections are designed to be self-sealing through the ridge-groove interface. The geometry of the ridge and corresponding groove creates a seal through the coupling action itself, without requiring external sealing materials or additional sealing steps.
3Reliability
If precise manipulation is required for vent pipe connection, then secure connection can be achieved, but the ease of operation in tight spaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling features utilize asymmetric geometry where the ridge on the male end fits into a corresponding groove on the female end. This asymmetric design provides a natural alignment and guiding function that reduces the precision required during assembly, making installation easier in tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The ridge and groove are pre-formed during pipe manufacturing with precise dimensions and tolerances. This preliminary action ensures that when the pipes are brought together in the field, the coupling aligns automatically without requiring precise manual manipulation during installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling feature for double-walled pipes. A double-walled vent pipe section has an outer wall with corresponding male and female coupling features formed on opposite ends thereof. The inner wall of the double-walled pipe section has a small ridge formed around the circumference of one end. When pipe sections are coupled together, the male and female coupling features on the outer walls engage, and the ridge on the inner wall of one pipe section engages with the bare inner wall of the other pipe section.