Pipe Joint Assembly With Acoustic Fit Indication for Sealing Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining the correct mounting of pipe stocks in pipe fittings are complex, material-restrictive, and lack market competitiveness, making it difficult to ensure proper alignment and sealing.

Innovation Solution

A pipe joint assembly featuring a guiding sleeve with a first concave-convex structure and a connecting body with a matching second concave-convex structure, which generates a frictional sound when in interference fit, allowing for quick and convenient determination of proper alignment without requiring complex processing or specialized materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional methods (peephole, scale mark, transparent material) are used to determine mounting position, then mounting accuracy can be ensured, but the processing becomes complicated and material selection is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting position accuracyVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional visual/mechanical indication methods (peephole, scale mark, transparent material) with an acoustic detection method. The interference fit between concave-convex structures generates frictional sound that serves as an audible signal for correct mounting position, substituting complex visual/mechanical systems with a simpler acoustic feedback mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system performs self-indication through the frictional sound generated during insertion. The concave-convex structures on the guiding sleeve and connecting body automatically generate audible feedback when achieving interference fit, eliminating the need for external marking systems or transparent materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional mounting indication methods are used, then mounting position can be determined, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting position determinationVSAvoidmounting speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces slow, multi-step visual inspection methods with immediate acoustic feedback. The frictional sound provides real-time indication of correct mounting position during insertion, eliminating the need for post-installation verification and significantly speeding up the mounting process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The acoustic indication method allows installers to quickly determine mounting correctness during the insertion process itself, skipping the need for separate verification steps. The frictional sound provides immediate feedback, enabling rapid confirmation of proper installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

3Manufacturing precision

If traditional mounting methods are used, then alignment can be ensured, but special material requirements and complex processing reduce market competitiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the inherent friction between mating surfaces during normal insertion to generate the indication signal. No special materials, coatings, or complex processing are required - the frictional sound arises naturally from the interference fit between the concave-convex structures, simplifying manufacturing while ensuring alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces material-intensive methods (transparent materials, special markings) with a mechanical-acoustic system. The frictional sound generation relies only on the geometry of the concave-convex structures, eliminating material restrictions and reducing processing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables rapid and accurate determination of pipe stock positioning, ensuring proper alignment and sealing while simplifying manufacturing and enhancing market competitiveness.

Implementation Method 1

the first concave-convex structure and the second concave-convex structure generate a frictional sound when the guiding sleeve rotates relative to the connecting body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11346479B2Pipe fitting joint assembly
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 RIFENG ENTERPRISE FOSHAN CO LTD
  • US11346479B2 patent drawing
  • US11346479B2 patent drawing
  • US11346479B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A pipe fitting joint assembly including a guide sleeve, provided with a first concave-convex structure on the outer wall of one end thereof, a connecting body, provided with a second concave-convex structure on the inner walls of both ends thereof, and an inner gear ring provided with a third concave-convex structure on an inner ring thereof and a fourth concave-convex structure on an outer ring thereof. The inner gear ring is concentrically inserted into the connecting body. The fourth concave-convex structure and the second concave-convex structure are in interference fit. The guide sleeve is concentrically inserted into the inner ring gear of the connecting body. The first concave-convex structure and the fourth concave-convex structure are in clearance fit therebetween using a moving interference manner.