Pipe End Connector with Radial Locking for Faster Sealed Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing triclamps for connecting cable ends are difficult to open and close, especially when a single person is required, and their use with secondary interfaces complicates handling and increases time when dealing with toxic substances.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device featuring a support ring and a locking mechanism with a radially movable locking element, allowing easy insertion and secure closure of cable ends, even when space is limited, and optionally using a drive unit for automation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a triclamp is used to connect cable ends, then a standardized connection is achieved, but the connection and disconnection process becomes time-consuming and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be movable in the radial direction, transitioning between a locked position (pressing the cable ends together) and an unlocked position (releasing the cable ends). This dynamic mechanism allows simple operation while maintaining reliable connection, directly resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and ease of operation.
2Strength
If a triclamp is used for connecting cable ends, then connection strength is achieved, but the time required for opening and closing increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is divided into separate functional components: a support ring that maintains cable end position and a locking device with a movable locking element that applies clamping force. This segmentation allows the locking element to be actuated independently and quickly without requiring manipulation of the entire clamp structure, reducing connection time while maintaining clamping force.
3Reliability
If secondary interfaces are used to enclose triclamps for toxic substance transport, then sealing is improved, but handling complexity and time expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support ring and locking device are combined into an integrated connecting device where the locking element's radial movement simultaneously achieves both connection and sealing functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate secondary interfaces, reducing device complexity while maintaining sealing reliability for toxic substance transport.
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
Enables faster and simpler connection and disconnection of cable ends, reducing time and effort, particularly suitable for handling toxic substances, and ensuring secure sealing.
Implementation Method 1
at least one locking element which is movably mounted in the support ring and/or in the locking device in the radial direction, wherein the locking element can be moved by means of the locking device between an open position in which the second end face with the first end face can be brought into contact with the first end face, and is adjustable to a closed position in which the locking element applies an axially acting closing force to the second back face, so that the second end face is pressed against the first end face
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connecting device (10) for connecting a first pipe end (12) to a second pipe end (14), comprising a support ring (34) which can be made to abut the first rear face (20); a locking device (38), which can be releasably connected to the support ring (34), the support ring (34) or the locking device (38) in the assembled state projecting axially above the first end face (18) and forming a receiving opening (36) into which the second widened portion (22) can be introduced; at least one locking member (42), which is movably mounted in the support ring (34) and/or in the locking device (38) in the radial direction, said locking member (42) being adjustable by means of the locking device (38) between an open position, in which the second end face (24) can be made to abut the first end face (18), and a closed position, in which the locking member (42) applies an axially acting clamping force to the second rear face (26), so that the second end face (24) is pressed against the first end face (18).