Push-Seal Pipe Adapter With Integrated Grommet Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe adapters require additional labor, tools, and sealants for secure connections, which can be time-consuming and costly, especially in applications where rapid changes or semi-permanent setups are needed.
Innovation Solution
The push seal pipe adapter features a grommet with multiple adapter contact surfaces that fit within a pipe adapter, creating multiple sealing surfaces when inserted, allowing for secure pipe connections without threads, glue, or extra adapters, enabling quick and reliable coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pipe adapters are used with threads, glue, or sealants, then secure connections are achieved, but additional labor, tools, and time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for threads, glue, and separate sealants by integrating the sealing function directly into the grommet component. The grommet is pre-formed with sealing surfaces that contact the pipe adapter, extracting the sealing function from the assembly process and eliminating the need for additional materials and steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet is designed to self-seal through its material properties and geometric configuration. When installed, the grommet's flexible material deforms to create sealing contact with the pipe adapter's sealing surface, and the integrated sealing surfaces automatically form the seal without requiring external sealants or additional components.
2Reliability
If conventional pipe adapters require multiple components and sealants, then sealing capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and the grommet into a single integrated component. The grommet includes both the structural element and the sealing surfaces, merging what would traditionally be separate components (grommet plus sealant) into one unified part that performs both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet is designed as a multi-functional component that provides both structural support and sealing capability. The same grommet component that secures the pipe adapter also creates the seal through its integrated sealing surfaces, eliminating the need for separate sealing materials.
3Reliability
If traditional pipe coupling methods are used, then secure seals are formed, but additional materials and tools are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing function from external sealants and integrates it into the grommet itself. The sealing capability is built into the grommet's structure through its contact surfaces, removing the need for separate sealant materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet is designed as a simple, inexpensive component made from flexible material that can be easily replaced if needed. Rather than requiring expensive sealants and specialized tools, the solution uses a simple rubber or plastic grommet that can be quickly installed and replaced.
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 push seal pipe adapter provides a robust, repeatable seal that reduces labor costs and eliminates the need for additional adapters or sealants, making it suitable for various plumbing applications, including commercial, residential, and temporary setups.
Implementation Method 1
The grommet is formed from any malleable or non-rigid materials, such as rubber, silicon, or plastic. Use of such materials ensure that the third adapter contact surface of the grommet expands towards and presses against the third grommet contact surface of the pipe adapter, thereby ensuring optimal sealing.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connector includes a pipe fitting including a passageway extending between upstream and downstream ends. An annular seat is formed within the passageway. A grommet includes a cylindrical portion and a conical portion extending from the cylindrical portion. A passageway extends through the cylindrical conical portions. With the grommet disposed within the passageway of the pipe fitting spaced from the upstream end, the cylindrical portion engages the annular seat and the conical portion extends along an inner wall of the pipe fitting between the annular seat and the downstream end. When an upstream pipe is received through the upstream end and along the passageway of the grommet, the conical portion compresses between and seals against the upstream pipe and the inner wall. With the downstream end of the pipe fitting connected to a downstream pipe, the pipe fitting and grommet fluidly connect the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe.