Pipe Coupling Locking Sleeve for One-Handed Dryer Tube Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupling systems for drying devices, such as those used in clothing dryers, are difficult to operate with one hand due to the use of sealing rings or locking sleeves, which hinder easy movement and require both hands for secure connection and disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling system featuring a locking sleeve with an insertion area and a locking element that creates a wear-free locking mechanism, allowing for one-handed operation and secure connection without the need for sealing rings, utilizing a tubular structure with a groove or fold design and a pin or retaining ring for alignment and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional compression fittings or insert fittings are used to connect dissimilar pipes, then connection is possible, but the system requires multiple different fitting types which increases device complexity and makes inventory management difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed with a universal interface that can connect to multiple types of pipes including polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, and metal pipes. The coupling includes a compression fitting portion that can accommodate different pipe materials and a insert fitting portion that can receive various pipe types, making a single device type capable of connecting dissimilar pipes without requiring multiple specialized fittings
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges two different fitting mechanisms (compression fitting and insert fitting) into a single integrated coupling device. The coupling comprises both a compression fitting portion with compression member and nut, and an insert fitting portion with recesses and protrusions, allowing one device to perform functions that previously required separate fittings for different pipe types
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different fitting types are used to connect various pipe materials, then all pipe combinations can be connected, but maintenance and repair become more difficult due to the variety of fitting types
Solution Approach 1:
The universal coupling design allows maintenance personnel to work with a single fitting type across all pipe materials, simplifying the repair process. The standardized interface and assembly procedure mean that technicians need to learn and master only one fitting mechanism rather than multiple different fitting types for different pipe materials
3Reliability
If a coupling device connects two pipes, then water flow is maintained, but the coupling device itself occupies space and adds volume to the piping system
Solution Approach 1:
The insert fitting portion of the coupling is designed to receive and nest within the other coupling, allowing the two halves to be stored compactly when not in use. During installation, the insert fitting is inserted into the compression fitting, creating a nested configuration that minimizes the overall volume occupied by the assembled coupling device in the piping system
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
Pipe coupling system, in particular for a drying system, comprising a first connecting pipe (1), a second connecting pipe (3) which can be connected to the first connecting pipe (1) via a connecting element (2), and a locking sleeve (4), wherein the connecting element (2) can be inserted into a receiving area (5) of the first connecting pipe (1), and wherein the locking sleeve (4) can be positioned above the receiving area (5), wherein the locking sleeve (4) has an insertion area (6) on its inner wall into which a locking element (7) arranged on the outside of the first connecting pipe (1) or the second connecting pipe (3) can be inserted or is inserted.