Pipe Alignment Jig With Planar Edges for Precise Fitting Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alignment devices for pipes lack a mechanism to precisely align polyethylene pipes using planar alignment surfaces and a cutout for accommodating fittings, which is crucial for effective joining.
Innovation Solution
A pipe alignment device with a pair of planar alignment edges and a cutout between them, allowing precise alignment of pipes before fitting installation, utilizing a handle for ease of positioning and graduated scales for measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional spirit levels are used for pipe alignment, then the device structure is simple, but the alignment precision is insufficient for precise pipe joining
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is segmented into distinct functional components: planar alignment edges for surface contact, a cutout for fitting accommodation, and graduated scales for measurement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional point-based spirit level alignment to plane-based alignment using planar alignment edges. This dimensional change from 0D/1D to 2D contact surfaces significantly improves alignment precision and stability during the pipe joining process.
2Reliability
If no fitting accommodation mechanism is provided, then the device structure is simpler, but the pipe joining effectiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device serves multiple functions: providing alignment surfaces for precision positioning, accommodating the fitting in the cutout during the joining process, and offering graduated scales for measurement. This multi-functionality ensures reliable pipe joining while adding minimal structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutout acts as an intermediary structure that accommodates the fitting during the alignment and joining process. This allows the fitting to be properly positioned and secured between the pipes while the planar edges maintain alignment, ensuring effective joining.
3Measurement precision
If precise alignment is achieved through planar edges and cutout, then the pipe joining accuracy is improved, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is segmented into distinct functional components: planar alignment edges for surface contact, a cutout for fitting accommodation, and graduated scales for measurement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional point-based spirit level alignment to plane-based alignment using planar alignment edges. This dimensional change from 0D/1D to 2D contact surfaces significantly improves alignment precision and stability during the pipe joining process.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe alignment device includes a first pipe that has an outer wall and a second pipe that has an outer wall. Each of the first pipe and the second pipe is insertable into a fitting for joining the first pipe to the second pipe. An alignment jig is included which has a pair of planar alignment edges and a cutout extending between the pair of planar alignment edges. The alignment jig is positioned on the first pipe and the second pipe such that the cutout accommodates the fitting. Each of the first pipe and the second pipe is adjusted to lie flush against the respective pair of planar alignment edges for precisely aligning each of the first pipe and the second pipe in the fitting prior to permanently installing the fitting.