Positive-Locking Pipe Connection for Easy Rotation-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connections in water supply and gas lines require trained personnel for efficient and safe assembly, as they often involve complex threading and alignment processes, making them difficult for non-experts to assemble correctly.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connection system where the first pipe socket is secured against rotation by a form fit with the second pipe socket, allowing for radial orientation fixation, simplifying the assembly process by eliminating the need for precise rotational alignment and using a union nut for axial fixation, enabling easy connection and disconnection without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pipe connections with external threads and nuts are used, then reliable connection is achieved, but assembly requires trained personnel and is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional elements: a first pipe stub with internal thread, a second pipe stub with external thread, and a union nut. The positive locking connection features (annular groove, sealing ring, back plate) are segmented as separate components that work together to provide both reliability and ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The union nut acts as an intermediary component that mediates the connection between the two pipe stubs. It provides the threading interface for secure attachment while the positive locking features provide automatic alignment and sealing, bridging the gap between reliable connection and easy assembly.
2Reliability
If threaded connections are used for pipe assembly, then secure connection is achieved, but precise rotational alignment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The positive locking connection features (annular groove, sealing ring, back plate) are pre-configured on the pipe stubs before assembly. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the pipes are brought together, the radial orientation is automatically established without requiring precise manual alignment during the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The positive locking features enable the connection to self-align during assembly. The annular groove and sealing ring configuration automatically guides the radial orientation of the pipes, allowing the system to establish proper alignment itself without requiring high precision from the assembler.
3Reliability
If complex pipe connection systems are used, then reliable sealing and fixation are achieved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single union nut component: threading for secure attachment, positive locking for radial orientation fixation, and integration with the sealing ring for reliable sealing. This consolidation allows all functions to be achieved through one assembly action, reducing assembly time while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The union nut serves as a mediator that integrates multiple connection functions into a single component, allowing reliable sealing and fixation to be achieved through one assembly operation rather than multiple separate steps, thereby reducing assembly time.
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
This solution simplifies the assembly process, reduces the need for trained personnel, and ensures a secure, cost-effective pipe connection that can be easily opened and reconnected, enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of valve and pipe installations.
Implementation Method 1
the first pipe stub can be held against rotation on the second pipe stub by means of a first positive locking connection formed by the first and the second pipe stub
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
A pipe connection (1), particularly for a drinking water distribution system, comprises a first pipe stub (100) and a second pipe stub (200), wherein the first pipe stub (100) and the second pipe stub (200) are designed such that the first pipe stub (100) can be held against rotation on the second pipe stub (200) by means of a first positive locking (120, 230) formed by the first and the second pipe stub (200). In a method for connecting a first pipe stub (100) to a second pipe stub (200), the first pipe stub (100) is positively locked onto the second pipe stub (200) such that the first pipe stub (100) is held against rotation on the second pipe stub (200).