Modified Crimp Pipe Fitting for Secure Flexible Duct Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC duct and pipe connections, particularly those using flexible ducts, face challenges in securing flexible ducts to rigid duct work or fittings efficiently, often relying on zip ties which may not provide a secure or long-lasting attachment.
Innovation Solution
A conduit system with an inverted channel and crimps at one end, designed to accommodate a zip tie and flexible duct, creating a mechanical lock through deflection and pinching action, combined with a pipe coupling system that includes flanges and a sealant for secure attachment of pipes and ducts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flexible duct is secured to rigid duct work using zip ties, then installation is simple and quick, but the connection may become loose over time and lacks reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional elements: the inverted channel structure that provides mechanical interlocking, the zip tie for initial positioning and compression, and the sealant for sealing. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function optimally while working together to achieve both ease of installation and reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The inverted channel is pre-formed on the rigid duct work before installation, creating a ready-made mechanical interlocking structure. This preliminary action ensures that when the flexible duct is installed with the zip tie, the mechanical lock is immediately engaged, providing reliable connection from the start rather than requiring additional securing steps.
2Reliability
If a secure mechanical lock is created through deflection and pinching action, then connection reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating outward-protruding mechanical features that would increase complexity, the invention inverts the channel structure to face inward. This inverted channel creates the mechanical interlocking action through the deflection and pinching of the flexible duct material, achieving reliable connection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that integrates with the existing duct work.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the flexible duct's own material properties - its flexibility and ability to deflect - to create the mechanical lock. The thin film or shell of the flexible duct is pinched and deflected into the inverted channel, creating a secure connection without requiring additional complex mechanical components. The flexible duct's material characteristics become part of the locking mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fittings are designed for both duct and pipe applications, then versatility improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is designed with dual functionality: the inverted channel accommodates flexible duct with zip tie attachment, while the integrated pipe coupling system with flanges and groove accepts rigid pipe connections. This multi-functional design allows a single fitting type to serve both duct and pipe applications, improving versatility without requiring separate specialized fittings for each application type.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting incorporates different structural features at different locations to serve different functions: the inverted channel and crimps at one end for flexible duct attachment, and the pipe coupling system with flanges and groove at the same or opposite end for rigid pipe connection. This local differentiation of structural qualities within a single fitting enables versatile application while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized production processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe/fitting having an end having a modified crimp for securing both flexible ducts and pipes. Specifically, the pipe/fitting includes an end having a series of annularly disposed pipes. The modified crimp includes an outwardly facing channel in the base of the series of crimps configured to secure a flexible duct between the channel and a fastener received in the channel. The end also includes a pipe coupling system at the base of the series of crimps configured to couple a pipe to the conduit.