Compact Pipe Joint With Internal Pressing Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing pipe joint solutions are not suitable for minimal fab semiconductor fabrication apparatuses, which require compact devices and limited installation space, making it difficult to achieve a reliable seal and easy connection/disconnection in narrow workspaces.

Innovation Solution

A pipe joint component comprising a first and second hollow pipe member with flange portions and a casing, where a plate-like pressing member creates a seal between the flange portions, allowing for easy assembly and high sealing capacity in a compact design suitable for minimal fab applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional pipe joint structure is used, then a reliable seal can be achieved, but the device size becomes large and it becomes difficult to work in narrow spaces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing reliabilityVSAvoiddevice volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The pressing member is inserted through a hole in the casing to press the flange portions from the inside, nesting the pressing mechanism within the compact casing structure. This allows the sealing function to be integrated into a small volume without requiring external pressing mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing member applies force from the inside of the casing through a hole, changing the direction of the pressing action from external to internal. This dimensional change allows the sealing mechanism to be compact while maintaining reliable contact between flange portions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If a conventional pipe joint structure is used, then a reliable seal can be achieved, but the ease of work in narrow spaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing reliabilityVSAvoidease of connection and disconnection

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pipe joint is divided into separable components: first and second pipe members with flange portions, a casing with a hole, and a pressing member. This segmentation allows easy assembly by inserting the pressing member through the hole and disassembly by removing it, greatly improving ease of operation in narrow spaces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing member itself serves dual functions: it creates the seal between flange portions and simultaneously acts as a lever for tightening. The simple insertion and removal mechanism allows operators to perform sealing and tightening operations without additional tools or complex procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Volume of moving object

If the device is made compact for minimal fab, then installation space is reduced, but the complexity of achieving reliable seal in narrow spaces increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice volumeVSAvoidjoint structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pressing member serves multiple functions: it presses the flange portions together to create a seal, acts as a tightening lever, and is inserted through a hole in the casing for easy access. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall structure despite the compact size

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The hole in the casing serves as an intermediary access point, allowing the pressing member to be inserted and operated from the outside while the sealing action occurs inside the compact casing. This intermediary structure enables complex sealing operations in a simplified manner

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 seal and enhances ease of work in narrow spaces, making it suitable for minimal fab semiconductor fabrication apparatuses, while being easy to assemble and maintain, thus improving productivity and reducing installation costs.

Implementation Method 1

inserting the pressing member through the third opening into the receiving space (2) to press the second flange portion against the first flange portion, thereby creating a seal between the first and second flange portions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS10473247B2Method of forming a pipe joint, pipe joint component, and pipe joint, fluid control device, fluid control unit and semiconductor fabrication apparatus including the pipe joint component

Publication Date: 2019.11.12 FUJIKIN INC

AI summary

A method of forming a pipe joint includes: preparing a first pipe member, a second pipe member, a casing, and a pressing member to be arranged in the casing to press a second flange portion of the second pipe member against a first flange portion of the first pipe member, the casing having a first opening, a second opening, a third opening, a flange receiving space, and a receiving space in communication with the flange receiving space and adapted to receive the pressing member; inserting the first pipe member from the second opening toward the first opening until the first flange portion comes to rest within the flange receiving space; inserting the second pipe member into the second opening with the second flange portion ahead until the second flange portion comes into contact with the first flange portion.