Memory Pipe Joint With Injection-Molded Clamping Ring Retention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection methods using plastic pipes with memory properties and clamping rings face challenges in ensuring secure and leak-proof connections, particularly during storage and transportation, due to the risk of damage to the nipple end and inadequate holding mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A clamping ring made of cross-linked polyolefin with a conical inner surface and inward protrusions, injection molded with extended weld lines for increased strength, is used to securely position and protect the nipple end during storage and transportation, and automatically shrinks to form a tight seal with the pipe connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the clamping ring is made from extruded pipe by cutting, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the properties of the clamping ring cannot be optimized for each pipe connection and the wall thickness cannot be customized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies injection molding to manufacture the clamping ring, enabling precise control of parameters such as wall thickness, material distribution, and geometric features. This allows the clamping ring properties to be optimized for each specific pipe connection application, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and property adaptability.
2Productivity
If the clamping ring is made with standard injection molding, then production is efficient, but weld lines create weak spots that reduce ring strength during expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces localized wall thickness increases at the weld line positions within the injection molded clamping ring. This local quality enhancement compensates for the strength reduction caused by weld lines, maintaining overall ring strength while preserving the efficiency of injection molding production.
3Strength
If the clamping ring is expanded and shrunk with the pipe end, then the holding and sealing pressure is enhanced, but the nipple end is vulnerable to damage during storage and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a protective cap that is preliminarily attached to the nipple end before storage and transportation. This preliminary protective action prevents damage to the nipple end while allowing the clamping ring to perform its expansion and shrinkage function for enhanced holding and sealing pressure.
4Device complexity
If the clamping ring is positioned without a stop edge, then the structure is simpler, but the clamping ring may dislodge from the pipe end
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an asymmetric stop edge feature on the clamping ring that prevents dislodgement while maintaining structural simplicity. The stop edge creates a one-way constraint that allows easy installation but prevents removal, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and positioning reliability.
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 enhanced clamping ring design ensures a secure, leak-proof pipe connection by minimizing the risk of the clamping ring dislodging and protecting the nipple end, while the increased weld line length and thickness enhance the ring's strength and contraction force for reliable sealing.
Implementation Method 1
The pipe and the clamping ring are made of cross-linked polyolefin as a material having memory properties, wherein an end of the pipe and the clamping ring have been reversibly expanded co-jointly and firmly and sealingly shrunk to the connecting piece by back shrinkage
Implementation Method 2
plastic pipes with a memory capacity automatically strive to return essentially to their original shape and form after having been expanded
Implementation Method 3
The clamping ring is made from a cross-linked polyolefin by injection molding
Implementation Method 4
The clamping ring is for example formed such that at a point where the weld line resides, the wall thickness is larger than the average wall thickness
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A pipe connection comprises a connecting piece (2), a pipe (1) and a clamping ring (6). The pipe (1) and the clamping ring (6) are made of a material having memory properties. An end of the pipe (1) and the clamping ring (6) have been reversibly expanded co-jointly and firmly and sealingly shrunk to the connecting piece (2) by back shrinkage. Preferably the clamping ring (6) is made from a cross-linked polyolefin by injection molding.