Pipe Coupling Inclined Surface Anti-Separation Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In pipe unit coupling structures where a second member's pipe unit is inserted into a first member's hole and a third member is coupled to the second member, there is a risk of separation between the second and third members due to applied loads, leading to potential disconnection during assembly.
Innovation Solution
The second member features an inclined surface at the tip of its pipe unit, which, when pressed by the first member during insertion, applies a force to the third member in the opposite direction of separation, thereby reducing the likelihood of separation. Additionally, a grommet made of resin or rubber can be used to form the coupling unit with a pin-shaped protrusion, reducing the weight and likelihood of separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pipe unit is inserted into the hole during assembly with the third member coupled to the second member, then the assembly process can proceed, but a load is applied to the tip of the pipe unit causing separation force at the coupling unit
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined surface is pre-formed on the pipe unit tip before assembly. During the insertion process, this pre-formed inclined surface automatically generates a counteracting force that prevents separation at the coupling unit, eliminating the need for additional preliminary actions or adjustments during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution separates the functions of the pipe unit into distinct segments: the inclined surface at the tip handles the insertion and load distribution, while the coupling unit maintains the connection between the second and third members. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
2Strength
If a metal bolt and nut system is used for the coupling unit, then strong connection is achieved, but the weight of the coupling unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical fastening system (bolt and nut) is replaced with a integrated coupling unit that utilizes the structural geometry of the second member itself. The coupling unit acts as a built-in attachment mechanism that provides sufficient connection strength without requiring separate fastening components, thereby reducing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling unit is merged with the second member as an integrated structure rather than being a separate component. This merging eliminates the need for additional fastening hardware and reduces the total number of parts, achieving weight reduction while maintaining connection integrity.
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
This configuration effectively suppresses the separation of the second and third members during pipe unit insertion, improving assembly workability and reducing the weight of the coupling unit compared to traditional metal bolt and nut systems.
Implementation Method 1
the inclined surface is configured in such a manner that, when the inclined surface is pressed against the first member when the pipe unit of the second member is inserted into the first hole of the first member in a state where the second member and the third member are coupled to each other, a force is applied from the second member to the third member at the coupling unit, in a direction opposite to a direction of separation of the second member, by a load applied from the first member to the inclined surface
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe unit coupling structure includes a first member in which a first hole is formed, a second member including a pipe unit which is coupled to the first member by being inserted into the first hole, and a third member coupled to the second member by a coupling unit. The second member has an inclined surface formed at a tip of the pipe unit. The inclined surface is configured in such a manner that, when the inclined surface is pressed against the first member when the pipe unit of the second member is inserted into the first hole of the first member in a state where the second member and the third member are coupled to each other, a force is applied from the second member to the third member at the coupling unit, in a direction opposite to a direction of separation of the second member.