Modular Press-Fit Connector for Multi-Pipe Hydraulic Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current press-fitting connectors for composite pipes require multiple types and sizes due to different seating diameters, leading to increased production and storage needs, and are not versatile enough for use in both water and gas systems, nor adaptable for pliable steel piping.
Innovation Solution
A press-fitting connector design featuring a connector body with a female thread and a second element with a male thread, allowing for a standard diameter connector body and varying second elements, such as tees or elbows, to be connected via screwing, with a gasket for hydraulic sealing, reducing the need for multiple connector types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If press-fitting connectors are provided monolithically with different seating diameters, then each connector type can be optimized for specific pipe sizes, but the number of connector types to be produced and stored increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate elements: a press-fitting element (first element) that contacts the pipe and a joining element (second element) that connects to other components. This segmentation allows the press-fitting element to be standardized while the joining element varies to accommodate different applications, reducing the total number of connector types needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The press-fitting element is designed with universal applicability to work with multiple pipe diameters through a standardized pressing mechanism. The joining element provides the specific functionality needed for different connection types (tees, elbows, couplings), making the overall connector system versatile without requiring multiple specialized press-fitting connectors.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple connector types are produced for different seating diameters, then each connector can be precisely fitted, but production and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the press-fitting function from the joining function into two elements, the press-fitting element can be mass-produced in a single standardized size, improving production efficiency. The joining element is produced separately in various configurations, allowing precise fitting for different applications without requiring multiple versions of the entire connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The two elements are designed to be easily assembled together through threading or other connection mechanisms. This merging of standardized press-fitting element with various joining elements creates a flexible system that maintains manufacturing precision while improving productivity through standardized production processes.
3Device complexity
If connectors are designed as single integrated units, then structural simplicity is maintained, but versatility across different applications (water/gas systems, different pipe types) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into a press-fitting element and a joining element, allowing each to be optimized independently. The press-fitting element maintains structural simplicity for reliable pipe attachment, while the joining element provides versatility for different system requirements (water, gas, different pipe diameters and configurations).
Solution Approach 2:
The press-fitting element serves as a universal base component that can be paired with various joining elements to create connectors suitable for different applications including water systems, gas systems, and different pipe types, significantly enhancing adaptability without complicating the fundamental structure.
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
This design allows for a single standard diameter connector body to be used across various applications, reducing stock requirements and production complexity while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness for both water and gas systems, including pliable steel piping.
Implementation Method 1
the locking between the pipe and the connectors is achieved by plastic deformation of a portion of the connector at the portion of the pipe that is coupled to the connector
Implementation Method 2
a gasket being accommodated within the connector body and said second element of the connector
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
A press-fitting connector (1) for water systems and for gas systems, comprising a connector body (2) adapted to be press-fitted and provided internally with a female thread (4), a second element (5) of the connector being adapted to be coupled to the connector body (2), by screwing a male thread thereof (6) with the female thread (4), a gasket (3) being interposed between the connector body (2) and the second element (5) of the connector.