Single-Layer Plastic Pipe Fitting Ribbing and Threaded Ring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings face challenges in cost-effective mass production, pressure resistance, tightness, long-term stability, and easy assembly, particularly in composite pipes, with previous two-layer structures being inefficient and prone to stress and loosening issues due to non-circular contours and vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A single-layer injection molded T-piece and elbow fittings with parabolic wall edges and external ribbing for reinforcement, featuring a threaded ring system with snap-fit assembly and a retaining ring to secure the union nut, ensuring a secure and leak-proof connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a two-layer injection molded structure is used for the fitting, then the fitting can be produced with enhanced strength and pressure resistance, but the manufacturing complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inner part and outer part into a single integrated injection molded fitting, eliminating the two-layer structure while maintaining structural integrity through optimized wall thickness distribution and internal reinforcement features
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by varying wall thickness in different regions of the fitting - thicker walls at stress-concentration points (sockets and connection sections) and thinner walls in non-critical areas, achieving pressure resistance without uniform complexity
2Strength
If external ribbing is added to strengthen wall edges, then the pressure resistance and structural stability improve, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The external ribbing features are merged into the single-layer injection molded structure, becoming integral parts of the fitting rather than separate components, which simplifies assembly while maintaining structural reinforcement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses curved and rounded ribbing transitions instead of sharp edges, distributing stress more effectively and preventing stress concentration while maintaining structural integrity under pressure loads
3Ease of operation
If a threaded ring system with snap-fit assembly is used, then the ease of assembly and disassembly improve, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is segmented into modular components with the threaded ring as a separate assembly unit that can be independently manufactured and then quickly assembled to the main fitting body through snap-fit mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit assembly mechanism enables self-aligning and self-securing of the threaded ring to the fitting, reducing the need for complex fastening operations and specialized assembly tools
4Use of energy by moving object
If the flow passage is designed with parabolic wall edges, then the flow efficiency and pressure distribution improve, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parabolic and curved wall edges in the flow passage design to eliminate sharp corners and promote smooth fluid flow, reducing turbulence and improving energy efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through injection molding capabilities
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
The invention relates to a T-piece (11) and an angle piece (12, 13) as fittings (1) for producing a pipe union. The weak points on the center part (20) of the fittings (1) have an external ribbing (5) for reinforcement against the pressure load enacted in operation. The invention further substantially relates to the design of the ribbing (5). The fitting (1) is preferably designed as a one-layer plastic injection molded part. The invention further relates to the design of an external thread (63) on the fitting (1) by means of thread rings (6) to be arranged on the connecting piece thereof (21-23) and a retaining ring (7) integrated in the pipe union to prevent independent loosening of the screw connection.