Pipe Fitting Adaptor Assembly for Incompatible Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The piping and irrigation industries face challenges in connecting pipes of differing sizes and configurations, leading to increased manufacturing costs and labor-intensive, unpredictable in-field solutions.
Innovation Solution
A versatile pipe-fitting adaptor assembly that includes a tubular receptacle member and an adaptor coupling member, configured to fit over existing pipe fittings, providing alternative coupling options by interlocking with a retention member to securely connect differently sized pipes and accommodate various coupling configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If numerous specialized fittings are manufactured and stocked to accommodate different pipe sizes and configurations, then connection versatility is improved, but manufacturing costs and SKU requirements increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor assembly provides multiple coupling options (threaded, slip, groove-end) through a single universal design that can connect to different pipe sizes and configurations. This multi-functional adaptor eliminates the need for manufacturers to produce and stock numerous specialized fittings for each coupling type and pipe size combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptor assembly features a nested structure where an inner coupling member is received within an outer coupling member. This nesting allows the adaptor to provide multiple coupling options in a compact, integrated design, enabling connection versatility without requiring separate specialized fittings for each configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If make-shift fittings are devised in the field to facilitate connection needs, then connection flexibility is improved, but labor intensity and unpredictability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor assembly is designed as a complete, self-contained solution that installers can directly apply to existing fittings without requiring custom fabrication or complex field modifications. The standardized design with pre-configured coupling options eliminates the need for make-shift solutions and reduces installation labor and unpredictability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If numerous specialized fittings are manufactured and stocked to accommodate different pipe sizes and configurations, then connection versatility is improved, but device complexity and SKU requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single adaptor assembly design provides multiple coupling options (threaded, slip, groove-end) and can accommodate different pipe sizes, replacing the need for numerous specialized fittings in the manufacturer's SKU inventory. This universal design reduces device complexity and inventory requirements while maintaining connection versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The nested structure of the adaptor assembly, with an inner coupling member received within an outer coupling member, enables multiple coupling configurations to be integrated into a single compact component. This reduces the number of separate parts and SKU requirements while providing connection versatility across different pipe sizes and types.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe-fitting adaptor assembly connectable to the coupling end of a pipe fitting is provided for reconfiguring existing pipe fittings with alternate pipe coupling ends. The fitting adaptor assembly has a tubular receptacle member configured to fit over and seal against an insert member of the fitting. A sliding retention ring carried along a ramped section of the fitting insert member interlocks with an opening formed in the sidewall of the receptacle member of the fitting adaptor assembly, such that decoupling forces tend to expand the locking ring further into the sidewall opening of the fitting adaptor assembly. The fitting adaptor assembly has a coupling end configured differently than the insert member for connection to otherwise incompatible alternative pipe sizes and/or pipe coupling configurations.