Tubular Pipe Fitting Insert with Reinforcement Ribs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings require burdensome and time-consuming tools for assembly or rely on slow-setting sealants, complicating the connection process and requiring significant force for secure attachment.
Innovation Solution
The development of fittings with a tubular insert member and retention members, such as movable or expandable sleeves, that engage the pipe's inner surface to secure the fitting through friction, utilizing elastomeric seals and reinforcement ribs to enhance retention and sealing without the need for extensive tools or prolonged setting times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamp is fastened over the pipe to compress the pipe against the barb, then a sealed connection is formed, but the assembly process becomes burdensome and time-consuming requiring tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical clamp system with a chemically-cured sealing member system. Instead of using external tools to fasten a clamp, the invention uses a sealing member that cures to form a permanent bond between the barb and pipe, eliminating the need for clamps and assembly tools while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of the sealing member from liquid/adhesive form to cured solid form. The sealing member is applied in a workable state and then cured through chemical reaction, transforming it into a rigid bonding structure that provides reliable sealing without requiring mechanical fastening
2Ease of operation
If sealant or adhesive compound is used to bond the barb, then assembly is simplified, but the connection requires time to set before becoming secure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates the curing agent and catalyst components within the sealing member structure itself, allowing the chemical reaction to begin immediately upon installation. This preliminary preparation of reactive components eliminates waiting time by initiating the setting process during or right after assembly rather than requiring a separate curing period
3Reliability
If the outer surface of the insert member is contoured to accommodate retention members, then retention function is enhanced, but the insert wall structure is thinned and weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite construction where the insert member combines different materials or structural layers. The body portion is made of robust material for strength, while the outer surface incorporates retention features made of or treated with materials that provide enhanced retention properties, creating a composite structure that achieves both strength and retention function
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 allows for easy, tool-free assembly and secure attachment of fittings to pipes, withstanding high fluid pressures without leakage, and reducing assembly force requirements compared to conventional barbed fittings.
Implementation Method 1
The retention member engages an inner surface of the end portion of the pipe to help frictionally secure the end portion of the pipe on the insert member
Implementation Method 2
utilizing elastomeric seals and reinforcement ribs to enhance retention and sealing
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting connectable to an end portion of a pipe generally includes a tubular insert member configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe, and a retention member coupled to the insert member and configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe. The retention member operates in conjunction with the insert member to engage the end portion of the pipe and impart an increased force against an inner wall of the pipe in response to forces tending to separate the fitting from the end portion of the pipe. The insert member includes a plurality of reinforcement ribs formed on its inner surface which provide support to the insert member and help prevent damage thereto from transverse bending forces applied during installation.