Plastic Pipe Connection Block With Metal Locking Plate Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connecting systems for air conditioning systems in motor vehicles require additional elements for fluidic continuity and lack efficient retention and secure connection of pipes to the vehicle system.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece plastic connection block with integrated through-holes for pipes and a metal locking plate secured by screws, along with metal tubular terminals and gaskets, provides direct pipe connections and secure retention without additional elements, using a plastic connection block and a locking plate coupled to the connection block.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe connecting systems use additional elements for fluidic continuity, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection block integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides fluidic continuity through integrated through-holes, serves as a mounting structure for pipes and terminals, and works with the locking plate to provide secure retention. This merging eliminates the need for separate additional elements while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection block is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously achieves fluidic continuity, mechanical support, and secure fastening when combined with the locking plate. The integrated through-holes provide fluid pathways while the structure itself serves as the mounting platform, reducing the total number of components needed.
2Strength
If pipes are secured with multiple additional elements, then retention strength is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the retention function between two main components: the connection block that provides structural support and the locking plate that provides clamping force. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using optimized processes (injection molding for the block, metal forming for the plate) while achieving strong retention when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking plate acts as an intermediary element between the pipes and the connection block, transferring clamping force to secure the pipes. This intermediary approach allows the plastic connection block to maintain its manufacturing simplicity while still achieving strong retention through the metal locking plate's clamping action.
3Ease of manufacture
If a plastic connection block is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but strength of connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a composite construction combining plastic (connection block) and metal (locking plate and screws). The plastic connection block provides ease of manufacture through injection molding and integration of through-holes, while the metal locking plate and screws provide the necessary clamping strength and structural integrity for secure pipe retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The design changes the material parameters by using plastic for the connection block (easy to mold, integrate features) and metal for the locking plate (high strength, durability). This parameter change in material selection allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve both ease of manufacture and strong connection.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A pipe connecting system comprising a connection block (10) having a first side (11) designed to receive a first pipe (2) and a second pipe (3), and a second side (12) designed to receive a first tubular terminal (4) and a second tubular terminal (5), wherein the connection block (10) is a one-piece body made of plastic material; wherein the pipe connecting system further comprises a locking plate (15) of metal material, configured to simultaneously engage the flanged portions (2b, 3b) of the first pipe (2) and the second pipe (3), the locking plate (15) being attachable to the connection block (10) by at least one screw (16).