PVC Pipe Retention Device with Deformable Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PVC pipe joining methods fail to securely connect the ends of PVC pipes, leading to potential leakage and separation, and undue stress on connecting components, which can result in pipeline failure.
Innovation Solution
The development of retention devices such as deep channel inserts, two-piece toothed inserts, claw rings, wedged lock rings, annularly aligned teeth assemblies, and constrictor inserts that extend the bell of the PVC pipe to securely engage the spigot end, using deformable members and teeth to prevent separation and provide a secure seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pipe joining methods are used, then the pipe connection is simple, but the connection is not secure and allows leakage and separation
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device is divided into multiple functional components: a deformable member with teeth for engaging the spigot end, a body structure for housing the teeth, and a bell extension for providing engagement space. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention device is nested within the bell extension, with the deformable member containing teeth that engage with the spigot end. The entire assembly is integrated into the bell-spigot joint structure, creating a compact nested configuration that provides secure connection without excessive external complexity.
2Strength
If retention devices with teeth are used to prevent separation, then the connection strength increases, but the stress on connecting components increases leading to potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable member is designed to be elastically deformable, allowing it to dynamically adjust during the engagement process. The teeth can flex and deform to accommodate variations in spigot end geometry and installation tolerances, distributing stress more evenly rather than creating rigid stress concentration points.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable member changes its physical state from a relaxed configuration to a compressed engaged configuration. This parameter change allows the teeth to progressively engage with the spigot end, distributing the connection strength requirement across multiple engagement points and reducing peak stress on any single component.
3Volume of stationary object
If the bell is lengthened to accommodate retention devices, then the engagement space increases, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bell extension serves multiple functions: it provides the structural bell component of the joint, creates the engagement space for the retention device, and anchors the deformable member in place. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated engagement structures, simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention device is merged with the bell extension structure, where the deformable member is positioned and secured within the bell extension. This combination integrates the engagement mechanism into the existing bell structure, avoiding the need for separate complex assembly steps and reducing manufacturing complexity.
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
These retention devices effectively prevent the separation of PVC pipes, ensuring a secure and leak-proof connection while withstanding pressure and external forces, thereby enhancing the reliability and durability of PVC pipe systems.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable member can resiliently urge the plurality of teeth to engage a surface of the spigot end, a surface of the bell extension, or a combination of surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A joint structure for connecting lengths of pipe uses a plurality of teeth to engage the surface of at least one end of the adjacent lengths of pipe to connect the ends. A deformable member applies forces to the plurality of teeth to engage the surfaces. In an aspect, the plurality of teeth are releasable. In another aspect, the plurality of teeth are permanently engaged into the surfaces.