Grooved Pipe Connector Assembly Using Wire Rings Instead of Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connectors, such as those using extensive welding and interference fits, are costly and time-consuming to manufacture, pose safety hazards, and require tight tolerances, making them inefficient and expensive for connecting flexible pipes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector design utilizing an elongate tubular body and sleeve coupled with wire rings, eliminating the need for welding by using strategically placed grooves and shoulders, allowing for assembly without certified welders and enabling the use of dissimilar metals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding is used to form pipe connectors, then the pipes are connected together, but the process becomes expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/chemical system) with a mechanical interference fit system. The connector uses a tapered mechanical interface that creates a secure connection through friction and geometric interlocking, eliminating the need for welding operations while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection mechanism from permanent welding to a controllable interference fit. By using a tapered geometry with specific angle parameters, the connector allows for adjustable assembly force and creates a reliable mechanical bond without the time-consuming welding process.
2Reliability
If interference fits are used to form pipe connectors, then the pipes are connected together, but parts must be held to very tight tolerances which is costly in manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a tapered interference zone only at the connection interface, while the rest of the pipe and connector components can be manufactured with standard tolerances. This localized precision requirement reduces overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a tapered geometry with a specific angle parameter that transforms the interference fit from a tight-tolerance cylindrical fit to a more forgiving angular interface. This parameter change allows for easier manufacturing while maintaining connection reliability.
3Reliability
If interference fits are used to form pipe connectors, then the pipes are connected together, but heat and liquid nitrogen may be used to assemble the pipe connector creating potential hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal expansion methods (heat and liquid nitrogen) with a pure mechanical assembly approach. The tapered interference fit allows assembly through controlled mechanical force alone, eliminating the need for hazardous thermal processing and associated safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a connector design that can be assembled without expensive and hazardous materials. By using a simple mechanical interference fit, the system avoids the need for specialized heating equipment, liquid nitrogen handling systems, and associated safety infrastructure.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A pipe connector (100) for connecting pipes that comprises an elongate tubular body (110) having a groove (114) formed on an outer diameter, a sleeve (150) coupled to the elongate tubular body (110), the sleeve (150) having a groove (152) formed on an inner diameter that is spaced from a first end (151) of the sleeve (150) and aligned with the groove (114) of the elongate tubular body (110). A first wire ring (130) is disposed within the groove (114) of the elongate tubular body (110) and within the groove (152) of the sleeve (150), wherein the sleeve (150) is coupled to the elongate tubular body (110) by the first wire ring (130). A wire insertion cutout (154) formed on the first end (151) of the sleeve (150) extends from the first end (151) of the sleeve (150) across the groove (152) of the sleeve (150), wherein the first wire ring (130) is disposable within the groove (114) of the elongate tubular body (110) and the groove (152) of the sleeve (150) through the wire insertion cutout (154).