Pipe rack system
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction of pipe rack systems is limited by the availability of coupling types, restricting the variety and complexity of shapes and configurations that can be achieved.
Innovation Solution
A multi-plane coupling system that includes various receivers aligned with different axes, allowing for the creation of five-way, six-way, four-way, and three-way pipe fittings, enabling pipes to be connected in multiple planes and forming modular structures with a wide range of combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard plumbing pipe couplings are used, then the construction is simple and reliable, but the variety of shapes and configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-plane coupling body is designed with multiple receivers (at least three) that can accept pipe sections from different directions and planes simultaneously. This allows a single coupling component to perform multiple connection functions that would otherwise require several different coupling types, thereby increasing the variety of achievable configurations without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling body incorporates receivers oriented in multiple planes (e.g., horizontal, vertical, and angled planes) rather than仅限于 a single plane. This dimensional expansion enables pipes to be connected in three-dimensional space, creating complex spatial configurations and multi-level rack structures that were not possible with conventional single-plane couplings
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coupling types are used to achieve complex configurations, then the versatility increases, but the device complexity and difficulty of assembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coupling functions are merged into a single multi-plane coupling body. Instead of requiring separate couplings for different connection directions and planes, the invention integrates all these functions into one component with multiple receivers, simplifying the assembly process by reducing the number of components and connection steps required
Solution Approach 2:
The universal multi-plane coupling can accommodate pipe sections from multiple directions and planes, eliminating the need to select from various specialized coupling types. This universal design simplifies inventory management and assembly decisions, as the same coupling component can handle diverse connection requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe rack system and a multi-plane coupling for such a pipe rack system are provided. The multi-plane coupling includes a coupling body that forms at least a first receiver aligned with a first axis, a second receiver aligned with a second axis, and a third receiver aligned with a third axis. The pipe rack system includes pipe sections that are received and coupled in the receivers. The multi-plane coupling may be in the form of a three-way, four-way, five-way, or a six-way pipe fitting. The receivers may be female threaded sockets. The pipe sections may be threaded pipe that are threadedly received within the female threaded sockets of the pipe fittings.