Pipe Connection Leak Indicator for Partial Insertion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline connection devices fail to ensure correct insertion, leading to potential leaks and system failures, as incorrect insertion cannot be reliably detected without a pressure test, and the insertion force is the only indicator of full insertion.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a radially elastic sealing ring within a through-channel in the sleeve-shaped housing part that opens into a peripheral groove, allowing internal pressure to release when the pipeline is partially inserted, creating a visual and audible indication of incorrect insertion through a whistling noise, and designed as a two-component injection molded part for cost-effectiveness and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pipeline is inserted directly without additional detection mechanisms, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of correct insertion cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the internal pressure itself to activate the indication mechanism. When the pipeline is incorrectly inserted, the pressure buildup automatically causes the sealing ring to lift and fluid to escape through the through-channel, providing self-detection without external monitoring equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the hydraulic pressure of the fluid medium flowing through the pipeline to detect incorrect insertion. The pressure causes the radially elastic sealing ring to deform and open the through-channel, creating a visible and audible indication of the error condition.
2Measurement precision
If a pressure test is performed to detect incorrect insertion, then the measurement precision of insertion status is improved, but the loss of time during commissioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indication mechanism is prepared in advance during manufacturing, with the through-channel and sealing ring already in place. During commissioning, the system immediately provides feedback when incorrect insertion occurs, eliminating the need for separate pressure testing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate visual and audible feedback when incorrect insertion is detected. The fluid escaping through the through-channel creates both a visible leak and a characteristic whistling noise, allowing operators to quickly identify and correct insertion errors without prolonged testing.
3Reliability
If the sealing ring is designed with large sealing surface area, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the ease of operation for detecting incorrect insertion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into a main sealing interface and a detection through-channel. The radially elastic sealing ring provides the primary sealing function, while the through-channel provides a dedicated path for error indication, separating the sealing function from the detection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing ring is designed with radially elastic properties, allowing it to deform under pressure. When internal pressure builds up due to incorrect insertion, the ring deforms radially to open the through-channel, transforming the pressure parameter into a detectable flow condition.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures immediate detection of faulty insertion during pressure testing, preventing leaks and system failures by providing a visual and auditory cue for incorrect insertion, while maintaining structural integrity and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a radially elastic sealing ring (93) is arranged within the circumferential groove (92)
Implementation Method 2
an internal pressure of a fluid present inside the connection device, which builds up when the pipeline to be connected is only partially inserted, causes the sealing ring to lift up
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2a
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection device (1) for pipelines (2) with a release element (70) having a circumferentially closed ring part (71) which can be sealed at its outer circumference by means of a circumferential seal (82) against a second sleeve-shaped housing part (44) and at its inner circumference by means of a circumferential seal (84) against the inserted pipeline (2). In the area between the retaining element (5) and the outer circumferential seal (82) of the ring part (71) within the circumferential wall of the second sleeve-shaped housing part (44), at least one through-channel (90) is formed, which connects an interior (91) of the second housing part (44) with its outer surface and opens into a circumferential groove (92).Within the circumferential groove (92) a radially elastic sealing ring (93) is arranged, which directly or indirectly seals an opening of the passage channel (90) and is designed such that an internal pressure of a fluid present inside the connection device (1) that builds up when the pipe (2) to be connected is only partially inserted in such a way that there is no circumferential seal of the pipe (2) in the area of the first housing part (42) lifts the sealing ring (93) in such a way that a seal of the passage channel (90) is released.