Hinged Conduit Joint Template for Orthogonal Cuts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pipe guides are inadequate for marking multiple conduits of different diameters and cannot form orthogonal joints, as they are designed for single conduit sizes and do not allow marking of shapes required for connecting conduits with varying diameters.

Innovation Solution

A mechanism comprising two pieces with curved openings and a hinge, which can be magnetically coupled to conduits, allowing users to mark and cut patterns for forming orthogonal joints across different diameters, featuring adjustable tabs and magnetic strips or layers for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single pipe guide is used, then it can mark one conduit size, but it cannot mark multiple conduits of different diameters

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to mark multiple conduit sizesVSAvoidcomplexity of the marking device

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pipe guide is designed with multiple curved openings of different radii in both the first and second pieces, allowing a single device to mark conduits of various diameters. By selecting appropriate openings and adjusting the hinge angle, the device can accommodate different conduit sizes without requiring multiple specialized guides.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The pipe guide is divided into two separate pieces (first piece and second piece) that can be adjusted relative to each other via the hinge mechanism. This segmentation allows independent positioning of each piece to match different conduit diameters while maintaining the overall structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional pipe guides are used, then they can mark straight cuts, but they cannot mark shapes for orthogonal joints

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to form orthogonal jointsVSAvoidcomplexity of the marking mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge connection between the first and second pieces allows dynamic adjustment of the angle between them. By changing the hinge angle, users can create different marking patterns including straight cuts and curved shapes necessary for orthogonal joints, transforming a static marking device into a dynamic one capable of multiple functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The curved openings in both pieces enable the creation of curved marking lines on the conduit surface. When the pieces are positioned at specific angles relative to each other, the combination of curved openings produces the saddle shape or other curved patterns required for orthogonal joint formation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the mechanism is made adjustable for different diameters, then it can fit multiple conduits, but it may slide or move during marking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability to different diametersVSAvoidstability during marking

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic strips or magnets integrated into the first and/or second pieces automatically attract the ferromagnetic conduit, securing the mechanism in place without requiring additional clamping or fastening mechanisms. This self-securing feature maintains stability during marking while preserving adjustability through the hinge.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic attraction mechanism replaces traditional mechanical clamping or fastening systems. Instead of using screws, clips, or other mechanical retention methods, the patent uses magnetic fields to hold the marking device securely on the conduit, providing both stability and ease of adjustment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables the formation of orthogonal joints between conduits of varying diameters by providing a secure, adjustable mechanism for marking and cutting patterns, ensuring accurate connections without sliding or movement during the marking process.

Implementation Method 1

The mechanism is configured to magnetically couple to the conduit (due to the one or more magnets), such that the mechanism does not slide or move about the conduit while a user marks on the conduit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11247326B2Mechanism for forming orthogonal joints in conduits

Publication Date: 2022.02.15 NATION WIDE PRODUCTS LLC

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an apparatus for forming orthogonal joints in conduits. The apparatus includes a first piece including a first plurality of curved openings and a second piece including a second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus includes a hinge configured to couple the first piece to the second piece and to enable the first and second pieces to be configurable in each of a closed position and an open position, where, when in the open position, the first piece is positioned adjacent to the second piece and, when in the closed position, the first and second pieces are configured to define a channel for receiving a conduit and each of the first plurality of curved openings is aligned with a corresponding one of the second plurality of curved openings. The apparatus further includes one or more magnets coupled to the first or the second piece.