Pipe Connector Assembly With Resilient Clamp for Leak-Tight Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors in maple sap harvesting installations are time-consuming to install, require specialized tools, and have limited reliability and durability, often leading to leaks over time.
Innovation Solution
A connecting assembly comprising a resiliently deformable connector with a base and connecting member, a seal, and a retaining member that clamps onto the collector pipe, providing a secure and leak-proof connection between the collector and feeder pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional connectors are used in piping networks, then the connection between collector pipes and feeder pipes can be established, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: a base portion that interfaces with the collector pipe, a connecting member that interfaces with the feeder pipe, and an integrated retaining member. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall installation process by enabling modular assembly without specialized tools
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining member is designed to perform multiple functions: it secures the base to the collector pipe through friction fit, provides structural support, and maintains the sealing interface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fastening components and specialized installation tools, thereby improving installation speed and reducing complexity
2Reliability
If traditional connectors are used in piping networks, then the connection can be established, but the reliability is limited and leaks occur over time
Solution Approach 1:
The base is pre-formed with an integrated retaining member that is designed to automatically engage and secure the base to the collector pipe upon installation. This preliminary design ensures that the connection is established in a secure, leak-proof manner from the outset, eliminating the need for additional sealing compounds or complex fastening procedures that could compromise long-term reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The base is designed with a curved outer surface that conforms to the cylindrical geometry of the collector pipe. This curvature ensures uniform contact and distribution of forces around the entire circumference of the connection, preventing stress concentration and leakage paths that commonly occur in traditional rigid, flat-faced connectors over time
3Reliability
If the connector is made secure and tight, then reliability improves, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining member is merged with the base as an integrated unit, combining the sealing function and the fastening function into a single component. This merging allows the installer to achieve both secure attachment and reliable sealing in a single installation action, eliminating the need for separate steps to secure and seal the connection, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining high reliability
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 significantly reduces installation time, enhances reliability, and maintains a tight seal over extended periods, minimizing maintenance and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
the base being resiliently deformable such that in a non-deformed state, a radius of curvature of the base is smaller than an outer radius of the collector pipe and a distance between the platforms is smaller than a diameter of the collector pipe, the platforms being displaceable away from each other to vary the distance between them to mount the connector and to exert a clamping force on the collector pipe
Implementation Method 2
a seal on the inner surface of the base, the seal configured to mate with the an outer surface of the collector pipe to sealingly mount the connector onto the collector pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for fluidly connecting a collector pipe and a feeder pipe is disclosed, with a retaining member defining a curved base defining a pair of platforms at opposite ends thereof and facing towards each other upon the connector being mounted on the collector pipe. The base is resiliently deformable such that in a non-deformed state, a radius of curvature of the base is smaller than an outer radius of the collector pipe and a distance between the platforms is smaller than a diameter of the collector pipe. The platforms is displaceable away from each other to vary the distance between them to mount the connector and to exert a clamping force on the collector pipe. The connector has a connecting member engaging the feeder pipe. A piping network is also disclosed.