Outlet Pipe Assembly With Universal Orientation Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inlet/outlet pipe systems for building installations are not easily adaptable or cost-effective for multi-purpose installation, particularly in central heating systems, and can lead to faulty installations due to complex construction and deposition issues.
Innovation Solution
A versatile outlet pipe assembly with a single orientation body that can co-operate with multiple orientation elements, featuring attachment elements like grooves and protrusions or clamping surfaces, allowing for easy assembly and use of a single material for manufacturing, along with features like deflector elements, sealing, and blocking elements to prevent foreign objects and ensure smooth gas guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex multi-component outlet pipe system is used, then the installation flexibility and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet element is designed with a universal attachment system that can connect to multiple orientation elements (0, 45, 90, 135 degrees) using a single standardized interface. This allows one component to serve multiple functions and configurations, eliminating the need for separate specialized components for each orientation, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet pipe assembly is divided into separate modular components: the outlet pipe with connecting part and the detachable outlet element. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using optimal materials and processes, then assembled on-site using the standardized attachment system, reducing manufacturing complexity while enabling flexible installation configurations.
2Reliability
If multiple materials are used for different parts, then the functional performance is improved, but the manufacturing cost and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting part and outlet element are both manufactured from the same material (such as PVC or similar plastic), eliminating the need for material transitions, different manufacturing processes, or special joining techniques between dissimilar materials. This homogeneous material approach simplifies manufacturing while maintaining sufficient functional performance for flue gas guidance and condensation drainage.
3Ease of operation
If a single orientation body is used, then the ease of installation is improved, but the positioning precision may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The orientation body features asymmetric positioning elements (such as a single protrusion or keyed feature) that engage with corresponding asymmetric recesses in the orientation elements. This asymmetric design provides foolproof positioning, ensuring the outlet element can only be installed in the correct orientation, thereby maintaining high positioning precision while simplifying the installation process through intuitive alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The orientation body and orientation elements are pre-configured with complementary geometric features during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when components are assembled on-site, the correct orientation is automatically achieved through the interlocking geometric features, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or precision adjustments during installation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
Outlet pipe assembly (1) having an outlet pipe (4), and an outlet element (5; 15; 25; 35) forming the outlet end of the outlet pipe assembly (1). The outlet pipe (4) is provided with a connecting part (3), wherein the inner surface of the connecting part (3) and the outer surface of the outlet element (5; 15; 25; 35) are provided with mutually co-operating attachment elements (6, 17). Also described is an inlet/outlet pipe assembly (10) comprising an outlet pipe assembly (1) according to the present invention and an inlet pipe (2), wherein the outlet pipe assembly (1) is positioned inside the inlet pipe (2).