Pipe Element Attachment Device with Compressive Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fixing a pipe element to a pipe end often result in leakage and contamination due to lack of tightness, complexity in assembly, and risk of microfissures leading to material escape, especially in the pharmaceutical industry where high quality standards are required.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first and second fixing element arranged to form a joint with a compressive seal, such as an O-Ring, that securely attaches the pipe element to the pipe end, preventing material and dust from escaping while allowing for easy assembly and use with various pipe types, including flexible and transparent options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple flange with screw is used to secure the pipe fitting to the pipe end, then the assembly is simple and easy to manufacture, but the sealing is insufficient allowing material leakage
Solution Approach 1:
A seal ring (intermediary element) is introduced between the pipe fitting and pipe end to prevent direct contact and provide sealing. The seal ring is compressed by the fixing elements to create a watertight barrier, preventing material leakage while maintaining assembly simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal ring is made of elastomeric material that can deform under compression to conform to the mating surfaces, creating an effective seal. The flexible nature of the seal ring allows it to accommodate slight variations in surface geometry while maintaining sealing performance.
2Reliability
If existing fastening devices with multiple components (sleeve, mounting bracket, flange, annular wing, screws) are used, then the sealing is improved, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fixing elements are merged into a single integrated component that combines the functions of clamping, positioning, and sealing. This reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining effective sealing performance through the integrated design of the fixing element with built-in sealing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical fastening, positioning alignment, and sealing prevention. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function, simplifying the overall device structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pipe element is subjected to constant movement between connections, then the adaptability to different installation conditions is improved, but the risk of micro-cracks and material leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal ring provides a cushioning effect that absorbs and distributes mechanical stresses from movement and vibration. This pre-cushioning protects the pipe element from stress concentration that could lead to micro-crack formation, maintaining reliability under dynamic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric material of the seal ring changes its physical parameters (softness, compressibility) in response to applied loads and temperature variations. This parameter change allows the seal to maintain its sealing function while accommodating movement and reducing stress transmission to the pipe element.
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 improved sealing, reduces the risk of material leakage and contamination, simplifies the attachment process, and enhances safety by ensuring that materials remain confined within the pipe system, even under permanent movements.
Implementation Method 1
The device also comprises a seal (7) which exerts a compressive force on the pipe element (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for attaching a pipe element (6) to a pipe end (1), including: a first attachment element (2, 3); a second attachment element (8); means (5) for connecting the first attachment element (2, 3) to the second attachment element (8). The first attachment element (2, 3) and the second attachment element (8) are arranged such that once they are connected by the connecting means (5), they define a space (12) arranged to receive a portion of the pipe element (6), said space being configured such that said portion of the pipe element (6) must be folded in order to be received in said space (12).