Push-fit Pipe Connection Indicator Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in connections for pipelines lack reliable and clear visual indication of connection status, often resulting in incorrect indication of coupling, and do not have minimal axial play or low production costs.
Innovation Solution
A plug connection design featuring a radially deformable holding element with an elastically expandable indicator ring that moves to a clear display position only when the inner part is fully connected, utilizing a release element and spring element to ensure correct indication and low production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the indicator ring is pressed out of the groove before the locking ring snaps into the locked position, then the indicator ring can be shifted to the display position, but the connection status is indicated incorrectly
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator ring is designed to be pressed out of the groove in advance, before the locking ring reaches the locked position. This preliminary action allows the indicator ring to be positioned in the display groove, where it will remain visible to indicate proper connection status after locking is complete.
Solution Approach 2:
A display groove is introduced as an intermediary structure between the indicator ring and the final locked position. The display groove captures and holds the indicator ring in a visible position, serving as a mediator that decouples the timing of indicator ring displacement from the locking action, thereby ensuring accurate connection status indication.
2Ease of operation
If the indicator ring is arranged in a groove in the lateral surface of the inner part, then the structure is simple, but the connection position indication is not clearly visible and tactile
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator ring is moved from a lateral surface groove to an axial display groove that extends along the insertion direction. This dimensional change allows the indicator ring to be positioned in a location that is both visually accessible and tactilely detectable, improving the clarity of connection status indication without significantly increasing structural complexity.
3Reliability
If the inner part can be moved beyond the connection position somewhat deeper into the opening, then the indicator ring can be shifted to the display position, but axial play increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion path is segmented into distinct zones: a connection position zone where the holding element engages, and a display position zone where the indicator ring is positioned. The display groove is specifically designed to capture the indicator ring at a predetermined position beyond the connection point, allowing the inner part to move slightly deeper without creating excessive axial play, as the indicator ring is held in place by the groove geometry.
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 a reliable, visually and tactibly clear indication of connection status, ensuring the indicator ring only displays the connection when the parts are properly locked, with minimal axial play and cost-effective production.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element is arranged between the shoulder and the outer part, which annularly encompasses the release element and counteracts penetration of the release element into the outer part
Implementation Method 2
an elastically expandable indicator ring is arranged in a ready position on the inner part before the inner part is connected to the outer part and can be shifted through the outer part from the ready position into a display position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
In a push-fit connection for pipelines with a tubular inner part (1) and an outer part (2) having an opening, wherein the inner part can be inserted into the opening of the outer part (2) with a prong end (5) and can be connected to the outer part (2) in a connected position in the opening of the outer part (2) by means of a radially deformable retaining element (3), the inner part (1) can be moved slightly deeper into the opening of the outer part (2) beyond the connected position. An elastically expandable indicator ring (30) is arranged in a ready position on an annular shoulder (16) on the inner part (1) before the inner part (1) is connected to the outer part (2).When the inner part (1) is connected to the outer part (2), the indicator ring (30) is moved by the outer part (2) over the ring shoulder (16) from the ready position to a display position, thus indicating the connection of the inner part (1) to the outer part (2).