Polymeric Pipe Fitting with Seeger Circlip Snap Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pipe fittings for polymeric and multilayer pipes fail to ensure reliable sealing under high pressure surges and are complex to install, often requiring specialized tools and expertise.
Innovation Solution
A pipe fitting with a main body featuring a barbed portion for internal penetration and a connecting terminal member, utilizing a deformable seeger circlip for irreversible snap fit and O-ring gaskets for enhanced sealing, allowing for easy assembly without specialized equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional metallic fittings with clamping rings are used for high pressure applications, then sealing reliability improves, but installation complexity and tool requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex multi-component traditional fitting structure (separate body, clamping ring, bush, gaskets) and replaces it with an integrated monobloc body that combines all functions into a single piece. This eliminates the need for specialized installation tools while maintaining sealing reliability through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the body, clamping mechanism, and sealing elements into a single integrated structure. The monobloc design combines the functions of multiple traditional components (fitting body, clamping ring, bush) into one piece that is installed as a single unit, simplifying the installation process while ensuring reliable sealing.
2Strength
If traditional press-fittings with deformable rings are used, then connection strength improves, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the time-consuming radial deformation step required for traditional press-fittings by eliminating the deformable ring component. The monobloc body with integrated barbed adaptors provides strong connection without requiring specialized pressing tools or complex deformation procedures, significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple monobloc design that can be installed quickly without expensive specialized tools. The fitting is designed for efficient single-use installation, reducing both time and cost compared to traditional reusable fittings that require complex installation equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional threaded clamping fittings are used, then adaptability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the monobloc body with self-aligning barbed adaptors that automatically position themselves during installation. The integrated design with pre-configured sealing surfaces and clamping features eliminates the need for precise alignment and complex threading operations, making installation straightforward while maintaining adaptability to various pipe types.
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 fitting provides a secure, irreversible connection that maintains sealing under high pressures and simplifies installation, reducing costs and time while ensuring leak-proof performance.
Implementation Method 1
at least an elastic element (6) arranged in intermediate position between the second abutting portion (22) and the connecting terminal member (3), for definitive snap fit of the connecting terminal member (3) to the main body (2) of the fitting (1)
Implementation Method 2
The O-ring gasket has a radial thickness and a radial section which is substantially rectangular in shape when the O-ring gasket is in a relaxed state
Implementation Method 3
a first portion (21), introducible at least partially in a free ending of a pipe
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention concerns a fitting for a pipe composed of a polymeric or multilayer material. The fitting comprises a main body (2) having a first externally barbed or threaded portion (21), at least partially introducible in a pipe ending, and a second abutting portion (22), intended to protrude outwardly from the pipe ending. The fitting further comprises a terminal member (3) fittable on the second abutting portion of the fitting for connection to other pipe or external loop, and an element for clamping the connecting terminal member to the pipe and/or the main body. Advantageously, the fitting comprises at least an elastic element, e.g. a "seeger" circlip (open or closed), situated between the second abutting portion and the connecting terminal member for permanent snap fit of the connecting terminal member to the main body of the fitting.