Rectangular Pipe Notch Assembly for Self-Positioning Weld Joints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for assembling pipe structures face challenges in efficiently positioning and welding rectangular pipes, leading to unstable quality and increased material requirements due to gaps and complex positioning jigs.

Innovation Solution

A pipe assembly design featuring a first rectangular pipe with a notch that receives a second rectangular pipe, where the dimensions of the first pipe's notch and the second pipe's portion are specifically aligned to allow precise fitting and welding without additional positioning jigs, ensuring stable quality and reduced material usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional pipe assembly methods are used with multiple pipes, then the pipe structure can be formed, but positioning accuracy deteriorates due to gaps and complex positioning jigs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidpositioning jig complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first pipe is inserted into the second pipe to form a nested structure, eliminating the need for complex positioning jigs. The nested configuration provides inherent positioning accuracy while simplifying the assembly process and reducing the number of components required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The pipe assembly is divided into two separate pipes with specific dimensional relationships. The first pipe has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the second pipe, allowing precise positioning through the insertion relationship rather than requiring additional positioning fixtures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of substance

If traditional pipe assembly methods are used, then pipes can be joined, but material waste increases due to gaps requiring additional material

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial wasteVSAvoidgap control
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The nested pipe configuration eliminates gaps between separate components by having one pipe inserted within another. The dimensional relationship (outer diameter of first pipe smaller than inner diameter of second pipe) ensures tight fitting without requiring additional filler materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention specifies precise dimensional parameters: the outer diameter of the first pipe is smaller than the inner diameter of the second pipe, and the length of the first pipe is smaller than the length of the second pipe. These parameter relationships ensure proper fit and minimize material waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If complex positioning jigs are used for assembly, then positioning can be achieved, but assembly time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The nested pipe structure provides self-positioning capability, eliminating the need for complex positioning jigs. The first pipe naturally positions within the second pipe through their dimensional relationship, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The pipe assembly structure is designed to self-position through the insertion relationship between the first and second pipes. The dimensional parameters ensure that the pipes automatically align and position themselves during assembly without requiring external positioning devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20260108988A1Pipe assembly, machining path generation method, and laser beam machining system
Publication Date: 2026.04.23 YAMAZAKI MAZAK KK
  • US20260108988A1 patent drawing
  • US20260108988A1 patent drawing
  • US20260108988A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A pipe assembly includes a first rectangular pipe that extends in a first direction and that includes a first notch having a width dimension of a first value along the first direction and a length dimension of a second value along a second direction, and a second rectangular pipe that is disposed to cross the first rectangular pipe and that includes a first portion received in the first notch and a second portion extending in the second direction from the first portion. A width dimension of the first portion along the first direction is smaller than a width dimension of the second portion along the first direction. A length dimension of the first portion along the second direction is substantially equal to the second value. The width dimension of the first portion in the direction along the first direction is substantially equal to the first value.