In-Line Pipe Connector With Internal Pass-Through and Fewer Welds

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing structural connections for pipes and tubes are costly, aesthetically unpleasing, and require excessive welds and nuts, while also lacking a pass-through feature for items like cables and pipes.

Innovation Solution

A structural connector with a single-piece machined aluminum construction that eliminates the need for nuts and reduces welds by threading directly into the pipe end plate, featuring a center hole and beveled edges with bolt holes, allowing for secure connection and passage of items through the connection without visible external signs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If flange plates larger than pipes are used for connection, then structural strength is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidaesthetic appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The connector merges the connection function and the aesthetic cover into a single integrated component. The decorative cover plate is not merely an external attachment but is structurally integrated with the connection mechanism, eliminating the need for separate large flange plates while maintaining both strength and appearance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector employs a nested structure where the internal connection components (bolts, plates) are housed within the decorative cover plate. The smaller internal components are nested within the larger aesthetic housing, allowing the connection to be contained within the dimensions of the pipe itself rather than requiring larger external flanges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Strength

If cast connections without pass through holes are used, then structural integrity is improved, but cost increases and functionality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidpass through functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is segmented into distinct functional zones: structural connection elements for integrity and an internal pass-through channel for functionality. This segmentation allows the single component to simultaneously provide both structural strength and cable/conduit passage capability without requiring separate elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural connection between pipes, maintains structural integrity through its design, and enables pass-through for cables or conduits. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connection elements and pass-through components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Strength

If numerous large welds are used for connection, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connector replaces complex welding operations with a mechanical bolted connection system. Instead of requiring numerous large welds to join multiple components, the design uses pre-fabricated plates with bolt holes that can be assembled mechanically, significantly reducing welding requirements while maintaining structural strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector plates are pre-fabricated with bolt holes and connection features before assembly. This preliminary preparation of connection points allows for faster, simpler on-site assembly without requiring complex welding operations during installation, reducing both manufacturing complexity and installation time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Strength

If connections with longer cover plates are used, then structural coverage is improved, but aesthetic appearance and space efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural coverageVSAvoidconnection length

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector applies structural reinforcement locally at the connection points rather than using long cover plates. The decorative cover plate provides structural coverage only where needed at the joint interface, maintaining aesthetic appearance and space efficiency while ensuring adequate structural support at critical locations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11125373B2Structural connection between in-line pipes and tubes

Publication Date: 2021.09.21 RENDELY WAYNE

AI summary

A structural connection between in-line circular or rectangular pipes. The connection is maintained within the outer dimensions of the pipe or tubes, eliminates the need for numerous large welds, and provides for a large center hole that enables items to pass through the connection inside the pipes.