Integrated Pipe Joint Insert for Simplified Spline Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spline-type pipe joints for non-metallic pipes, such as PVC, require separate manufacturing and installation of spline grooves, seals, and splines, leading to high costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic insert device with an annular body and integrated spline and seal portions, made of polymer and elastomer materials, is used to form a pipe joint assembly, where the spline is resiliently movable and the seal is less rigid, allowing for simplified assembly and reduced component costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate spline grooves, seals, and splines are manufactured and installed in conventional pipe joints, then the joint components can be individually optimized, but the manufacturing cost increases and the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spline groove, seal, and spline components into a single integrated insert device that is pre-assembled as one unit. This insert device is then inserted into the pipe joint, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and installation of individual components. The integration maintains functional reliability while significantly simplifying the assembly process and reducing manufacturing complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate spline grooves, splines, and seal parts are manufactured independently, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert device merges multiple components (spline groove, seal, and spline) into a single integrated structure that can be manufactured as one piece or pre-assembled unit. This reduces the total quantity of separate parts that need to be manufactured, handled, and installed, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining the functional advantages of having specialized components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parts are installed in a pipe joint, then the joint can accommodate different functional requirements, but the installation time and manpower increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insert device combines multiple functional elements (spline engagement features, sealing components, and structural elements) into a single pre-assembled unit that can be installed in one operation. This maintains the adaptability and versatility of the joint by incorporating all necessary functional features within the integrated device, while dramatically reducing installation time and manpower requirements compared to installing separate components individually.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional separate components are used in pipe joints, then the design can be standardized, but the overall system cost increases due to multiple separate manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 1:
The insert device integrates multiple components into a single unit that can be manufactured using standardized molding or fabrication processes. The integration ensures precise fit and alignment between the spline groove, seal, and spline elements since they are formed as one piece or pre-positioned relative to each other, eliminating alignment errors that can occur when assembling separate components. This maintains manufacturing precision while improving overall manufacturing efficiency.
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 integrated insert device simplifies the assembly process, reduces manufacturing costs, and provides a reliable, fluid-tight connection between pipes by eliminating the need for separate spline and seal components.
Implementation Method 1
a seal portion and a seal material carried by the seal portion. The seal material is less rigid than the body material
Implementation Method 2
a spline portion and a spline connected to the spline portion and resiliently movable in a radial direction relative to an axis of the insert device
Data Source
AI summary
A polymer pipe includes a length between a first end and a second end, the length and the first end having a first diameter. The second end is a belled or female end having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. An insert device is received within the second end and has an annular body formed of a body material and has a spline portion formed as a part of the insert device. The spline portion includes a spline carried by the insert device and resiliently movable in a radial direction relative to an axis of the annular body.