Pipe connectors and systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection methods, such as soldering, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, hazardous, and pose fire risks, especially in confined spaces, and cannot be used with moisture in the pipes, limiting their efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector design featuring a housing body with stacked sealing members and a locking member that forms a one-way stop, allowing for quick and secure connection without soldering, using a segmented collar or expandable locking mechanism to prevent pipe removal, thus ensuring a fluid-tight seal across various temperatures and pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If soldering is used to connect pipe and fitting, then a fluid-tight seal is achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal soldering process with a mechanical connection system. The fitting includes a locking mechanism with teeth that engage with grooves on the pipe, creating a mechanical interlock that secures the pipe without requiring heat or soldering materials. This mechanical substitution eliminates the time-consuming soldering steps while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that automatically ensure proper connection during installation. The locking mechanism automatically engages when the pipe is inserted, and the design includes self-adjusting elements that compensate for minor misalignments, reducing the skill level and time required for installation while ensuring a reliable seal.
2Reliability
If soldering is used to connect pipe and fitting, then a fluid-tight seal is achieved, but the connection process becomes hazardous and presents fire danger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the use of open flames and hot tools by replacing soldering with a cold mechanical connection system. The locking mechanism uses interlocking teeth and grooves secured by a retaining ring, creating a fire-safe connection method that achieves fluid-tight sealing without any thermal processes or fire hazards.
3Reliability
If soldering is used to connect pipe and fitting, then a fluid-tight seal is achieved, but the pipe cannot contain moisture during connection
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection system allows the pipe to remain in its existing state during installation. The pipe can contain moisture or be dry, and the mechanical interlocking mechanism will function properly in either condition. The sealing is achieved through the mechanical fit and locking action, not through thermal processes that would be disrupted by moisture or steam generation.
4Productivity
If a segmented collar locking mechanism is used, then quick and secure connection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into segmented components: a collar with locking teeth, a retaining ring, and integrated sealing elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the assembly process. The segmented design enables quick installation as components can be easily positioned and locked into place without complex alignment requirements.
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
The solution provides a safer, quicker, and more efficient connection method that reduces the risk of leaks and hazards, enabling connections in challenging conditions without the need for soldering, while maintaining a strong and reliable seal.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of sealing members can be positioned in a stacked configuration within the axial bore... arranged to form a seal between the length of pipe and the housing body
Implementation Method 2
The locking member engages the length of pipe when the pipe is forced in a second direction opposite the first direction to form a one-way stop
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connector includes a housing body defining an axial bore arranged to receive a length of pipe. A plurality of sealing members is positionable in a stacked configuration within the axial bore. The sealing members define a first opening through which the length of pipe can pass and are arranged to form a seal between the length of pipe and the housing body. A locking member is positionable in the axial bore above the sealing members. The locking member defines a second opening. The length of pipe is movable through the second opening in a first direction and the locking member engages the length of pipe when the pipe is forced in a second direction opposite the first direction to form a one-way stop.