Pipe Conductor Asymmetric Connection Surface Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conductive paths with flat end portions of metal pipes make it difficult to distinguish between surfaces for connecting additional conductors, leading to potential mistakes in connection.
Innovation Solution
A conductive tubular body with connection portions formed by crushing the ends in an axial direction, featuring a flat surface and a surface with a groove, allowing easy recognition of the connection surface, and ribs on both sides of the groove to enhance strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the end portions of the pipe are flattened to create flat plate surfaces for connection, then connection with apparatus and wires can be easily performed, but it becomes difficult to distinguish which surface should be used for connection since both surfaces appear substantially the same
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by creating distinct appearances on the two end surfaces of the pipe conductor. One surface is flattened to a substantially flat plate shape for connection, while the other surface is left with a substantially circular cross-section or given a different shape. This asymmetric design allows workers to easily distinguish which surface should be used for connection, solving the problem of indistinguishable surfaces while maintaining ease of connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by giving different properties to different parts of the pipe end surfaces. The connection surface is specifically flattened to create a flat plate shape with twisted wires attached, while the non-connection surface retains a different shape or appearance. This localized differentiation ensures that the connection surface is easily identifiable without affecting the overall structure or function of the pipe conductor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the end portions are flattened to create connection surfaces, then twisted wires can be connected to the pipe, but the structural strength of the pipe end may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the pipe into distinct functional zones: the main body of the pipe maintains its original circular cross-section and structural integrity, while only the specific end portion requiring connection is flattened. This segmentation allows the connection function to be added without compromising the overall structural strength of the pipe, as the flattening is localized to a small end region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-flattening the pipe end surface and pre-attaching twisted wires to create a ready-to-connect configuration. This preliminary preparation of the connection surface allows for easy and reliable connection with apparatus while the rest of the pipe structure remains intact and strong. The flattening is performed in advance during manufacturing, so the connection is straightforward during installation without requiring additional structural modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe conductor is formed by a conductive tubular body. The pipe conductor includes a connection for connecting with another conductor. The connection is formed by crushing an end of the conductive tubular body in an axial direction. A flat surface is formed on a first surface of the connection, and a surface having a groove is formed on a second surface of the connection. The groove reaches a tip end of the connection, and an end of the another conductor is in contact with only the flat surface.