Insert Coupling Assembly for Recessed Prefab Pipe Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prefab construction elements lack efficient and protected integration of pipes for water management, sewer systems, electricity, air treatment, and ventilation, which complicates installation and protection during transportation and assembly.
Innovation Solution
The integration of recessed pipe ends and an insert coupling mechanism that includes a slider sleeve and intermediate pipe, allowing for easy coupling and protection of pipes during transportation and secure connection after placement, using flexible sealings and one-way couplings for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pipes are integrated into prefab construction elements, then water management and utility systems are incorporated, but the fragile outer ends of pipes are exposed to damage during transport and hoisting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming recesses in the construction elements during the casting process, before the pipes are installed. These recesses are prepared in advance to receive and protect the pipe ends, preventing damage during transport and handling. The recesses are created as part of the preliminary construction element preparation, so that when pipes are inserted later, their ends are automatically positioned in protected recesses rather than being exposed.
Solution Approach 2:
The recesses act as intermediary structures between the construction element and the pipe ends. Rather than directly exposing pipe ends on the surface or embedding them deeply within the concrete, the recesses provide an intermediate protected space that shields the fragile pipe ends while still allowing for easy access and connection. This intermediary structure resolves the contradiction by providing both protection and accessibility.
2Reliability
If pipe ends are recessed into construction elements for protection, then pipe ends are buffered during handling, but installation space for coupling pipes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by utilizing the third dimension (depth) of the construction element. Instead of limiting the recess to a shallow depth that would protect the pipe end but restrict coupling space, the recess extends deeply into the construction element. This vertical dimensionality provides both adequate protection for the pipe end and sufficient horizontal and vertical space within the recess for inserting and manipulating coupling mechanisms, thereby solving the space limitation problem while maintaining protection.
3Productivity
If construction elements are placed adjacent to each other for building assembly, then prefab construction is achieved, but coupling pipes between elements becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pipe coupling system into separate, modular components: the pipes embedded in each construction element, the couplings that connect adjacent pipes, and the recesses that house these components. This segmentation allows each element to be manufactured independently with its pipe and recess pre-integrated, then assembled on-site by simply connecting the modular units. The coupling mechanism itself is segmented into insertable components that can be manually assembled without complex machinery, maintaining productivity while reducing coupling complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1D
AI summary
The present invention relates to an assembly of a first plate-shaped construction element and a second plate-shaped construction element which, parallel next to each other, form a floor or ceiling of a building, wherein pipes have been accommodated in the construction elements, which pipes are coupled to each other by means of an insert coupling connecting the pipes to each other in a flowing manner, wherein the construction elements define an installation space for the insert coupling, wherein the insert coupling can be converted from a first position or condition in which it can be placed in the installation space, to a second position or condition in which it engages onto the first pipe and the second pipe.