Modular Pipe Fitting Retainer for Adjustable Port Orientation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiport pipe fittings are limited in configuration and port orientation, making them unsuitable for applications requiring ports in different directions and are restricted to a fixed number of ports, which hinders flexibility in plumbing system designs.
Innovation Solution
A modular fitting system comprising a tubular member with mating tabs and a retainer that engages with a connector body, allowing for adjustable port orientation and number, featuring a seal to prevent leakage and ensure secure connections through tapered terminal portions and a groove system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiport pipe fittings are formed as a single integral body with ports all oriented in the same direction, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different plumbing configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into separate components: a body portion and one or more modular sections that can be independently manufactured and then assembled together. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for manufacturing while the modular assembly provides the needed adaptability for different port orientations and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting design incorporates movable or adjustable elements that allow the port orientations to be changed or adapted after assembly. This dynamic capability enables the same basic fitting structure to serve multiple plumbing configurations without requiring completely different integral body designs.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiport pipe fittings are formed as a single integral body with a fixed number of ports, then structural stability is improved, but flexibility in plumbing system design is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the fitting into a stable body portion and detachable modular sections, the design maintains the structural stability of the main body while allowing the modular sections to be added, removed, or reconfigured to achieve the desired number and arrangement of ports for different plumbing applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The body portion is designed as a universal base that can accommodate various modular sections with different port configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single stable body structure to support multiple fitting configurations, providing both structural consistency and design flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular fitting system with multiple components is used to achieve port orientation flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into manageable segments that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and configured. This segmentation into modular sections reduces the overall complexity by allowing each component to be simpler and more standardized, even though multiple components are used together to achieve the desired adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sections are designed to nest within or attach to the body portion in a hierarchical manner, with standardized interfaces that simplify assembly. This nesting approach organizes the multiple components in a structured way that reduces assembly complexity while maintaining port orientation flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting includes at least one port permitting flow of fluid and a connector body to which the port is attached. The connector body has a first mating portion. The fitting additionally includes a retainer structured to engage with the connector body and having a first tapered terminal portion and a second tapered terminal portion opposed to the first tapered terminal portion. The fitting further includes a tubular member configured to be fitted into the connector body and having a second mating portion structured to receive terminal portions of the retainer and configured to align with the first mating portion, and a seal positioned within the tubular member and disposed to be flush against an inner surface of the connector body.