Multi-Level Pipe Cap Projections for Rubber Pipe Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe caps fail to securely lock rubber pipes, especially those with non-circular geometries, and are difficult to fit due to insufficient locking mechanisms and complex geometries.
Innovation Solution
A cup-shaped pipe cap with a plurality of projections on the outer and inner surfaces at different heights, along with a flange and stiffening elements, ensures secure locking and easy fitting for various pipe geometries, including those with facets, while being made from PET for reduced weight and simplified recycling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single circular projection is made on the inner wall of the cap, then the pipe is prevented from slipping away, but the locking is not sufficient and insertion is difficult for pipes with special geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The single circular projection is segmented into multiple discrete projections arranged at different heights around the cap's inner wall. This segmentation allows each projection to engage with corresponding features on the pipe at different vertical positions, providing multiple locking points that collectively prevent slipping while allowing easier insertion for various pipe geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a single-plane circular projection to a multi-level three-dimensional arrangement of projections at different heights. This dimensional change enables the cap to accommodate pipes with different geometries including facets, as the staggered projections can engage with the pipe surface from multiple vertical positions, improving both locking reliability and insertion ease.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cap is designed to fit pipes with different geometries including facets, then versatility is improved, but the locking mechanism becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The projections are arranged asymmetrically at different heights around the cap rather than uniformly distributed. This asymmetric arrangement allows the projections to adapt to various pipe geometries including facets and non-circular cross-sections, while the staggered positioning ensures that at least some projections will engage effectively with the pipe surface to provide reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-level projection system serves multiple functions: it provides locking for circular pipes, accommodates faceted pipes, and enables insertion from different angles. The projections at different heights create a universal fitting mechanism that can adapt to various pipe geometries while maintaining reliable locking through the combined action of all projections.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A pipe cap, in particular for rubber pipe, comprising a substantially cup-shaped body (2) which has at least a base (3), a lateral wall (4) and an open end (5), said body (2) being suitable for being positioned inside and/or outside a pipe, comprises a plurality of projections (7, 7') which are arranged at different heights on the outer surface (6) and/or inner surface (6') of the lateral wall (4) of the cup (2).