Multi-Channel Pipe Connector Locking for Fast Fluid-Tight Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection arrangements for temperature control systems in electromobility and air conditioning are complex, costly, and difficult to assemble, especially in confined spaces, leading to extended installation times and potential errors.
Innovation Solution
A compact connection arrangement featuring a single locking element that secures multiple channels of two pipe arrangements, utilizing cylindrical coupling elements and a union ring locking mechanism, which can be easily assembled without tools, and optionally includes a device for detecting the connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple channels are connected using separate locking elements, then each channel can be securely locked, but the assembly time increases and the installation space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking elements into a single integrated locking element that simultaneously secures multiple channels. This locking element features multiple locking arms that can engage with different channels in one assembly operation, eliminating the need for separate locking operations for each channel while maintaining secure connection for all channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple locking tasks simultaneously. It can engage with different channel configurations (e.g., circular, rectangular, or irregular cross-sections) and secure multiple pipes or conduits in a single operation, making it adaptable to various connection scenarios while reducing assembly steps.
2Reliability
If multiple channels are connected using separate locking elements, then each channel can be securely locked, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple locking functions into a single locking element structure. This unified component contains multiple locking arms or engagement features that can simultaneously interact with multiple channels, reducing the total number of discrete locking elements from N (one per channel) to one integrated unit, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
While reducing the number of locking elements, the locking element itself is segmented into multiple functional arms or engagement points. Each segment can independently engage with a different channel, allowing the single locking element to perform multiple locking functions through its segmented structure rather than requiring multiple separate components.
3Reliability
If traditional pipe arrangements with various materials are used, then optimal operating conditions can be achieved for each pipe section, but the installation becomes more difficult and recycling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed with universal compatibility to work with different pipe materials and cross-section shapes (circular, rectangular, irregular). It features adaptive engagement mechanisms that can accommodate various pipe types without requiring material-specific or shape-specific locking components, thereby simplifying installation across diverse pipe arrangements while maintaining optimal operating conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Connection arrangement (1) for producing a fluid-tight connection of a first pipe arrangement (2) with a second pipe arrangement (3), wherein the first pipe arrangement (2) and the second pipe arrangement (3) each have at least two channels (4, 5), comprising a first coupling element (6) associated with the first pipe arrangement (2) and a second coupling element (7) associated with the second pipe arrangement (3), wherein the first coupling element (6) and the second coupling element (7) can be connected to each other by a locking element (8), wherein the locking element (8) encompasses the channels (4, 5).