Laser-Induced Pipe Seal With Visible Fluid-Tight Weld Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting thermoplastic resin pipes, such as those using laser welding or microwave irradiation, face challenges in achieving a reliable, fluid-tight seal that is distinguishable and easily identifiable.
Innovation Solution
A connection system comprising concentrically disposed layers of thermoplastic materials, where a laser-induced seal is generated between the layers, providing a fluid-tight engagement. The laser-induced seal can be configured as a recess, protrusion, or colored indicium on the outer surface, making it distinguishable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If laser welding is used to connect thermoplastic resin pipes, then connection strength is improved, but the seal becomes indistinguishable and difficult to identify
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a color-changing principle by forming a discolored region or raised seal line on the pipe surface during laser welding. This visual indicator allows easy identification of the sealed location without compromising the welding strength, directly resolving the contradiction between strong connection and easy identifiability
2Reliability
If a laser absorber is attached to the pipe surface for laser welding, then welding reliability is improved, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by incorporating laser absorber particles only in the specific region where welding is needed, rather than uniformly throughout the entire pipe. This localized approach maintains welding reliability while reducing overall process complexity and material usage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining thermoplastic resin with laser absorber particles (such as metal oxides or carbon black) to create a material that has both the required mechanical properties and laser absorption characteristics, eliminating the need for separate absorber attachment steps
3Reliability
If microwave irradiation is used to heat and seal pipes, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces microwave irradiation with laser beam heating. Laser heating is more energy-efficient and can be precisely targeted at the sealing location, maintaining sealing effectiveness while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to microwave-based methods
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
The laser-induced seal effectively creates a fluid-tight connection between the thermoplastic resin pipes, ensuring reliable fluid flow while being easily identifiable through visual or tactile means.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating a laser beam L from the outer circumferential side of the joint, heating the laser absorber mounted between the joint and the tubular material
Implementation Method 2
welding the inner circumferential surface of the joint and the outer circumferential surfaces of the tubular material and by the conduction heat
Implementation Method 3
welding the members by resin welding through transmission heat from the laser absorbing body
Data Source
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AI summary
A connection, and methods of making an using such a connection, the connection comprising a first layer; a second layer concentrically disposed about the first layer; and a laser- induced seal between portions of the first and second layers; wherein the laser-induced seal provides a fluid-tight engagement between the first and second layers. As to particular embodiments of the connection, the first layer can be incorporated into a first conduit and the second layer can be incorporated into a second conduit.