Rotating Pipe Connector Clip With Groove Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plumbing connector systems using threaded connections lack the ability to securely connect pipe fittings while allowing for free rotation, leading to orientation issues and potential leaks when fittings are not aligned correctly.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector system featuring a clip with legs that engage circumferential grooves and slots on the fittings, enabling secure yet rotatable connections between pipe fittings, allowing for flexible orientation without the need for excessive torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded connections are used to connect pipe fittings, then a secure connection is achieved, but the fittings cannot rotate freely relative to one another
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional elements: a clip structure with legs that engages circumferential grooves to provide secure connection, while allowing independent rotation of the fittings. The clip is separated from the fittings themselves, enabling the fittings to rotate relative to each other while the clip maintains the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip structure acts as an intermediary element between the two pipe fittings. It engages with circumferential grooves on both fittings to provide a secure connection, while its design allows the fittings to rotate freely relative to one another without compromising the connection security.
2Ease of operation
If more torque is applied to tighten threaded connections to change orientation, then fitting orientation may be adjusted, but the connection may become too tight or leaks may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic clip-based connection. The clip structure with flexible legs allows the fittings to rotate and adjust orientation dynamically without requiring additional torque, maintaining connection integrity throughout the adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the connection parameter from torque-dependent (threaded connections) to geometry-dependent (clip engaging circumferential grooves). This allows orientation to be adjusted by changing the rotational position rather than applying variable torque, eliminating the risk of over-tightening or leaking.
3Ease of operation
If threaded connections are loosened to rotate fittings to desired orientation, then orientation can be changed, but leaks may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connection is segmented into the clip structure and the fittings, allowing the fittings to be rotated independently while the clip maintains the sealed connection. The circumferential grooves and slot geometry ensure that rotation does not compromise the seal integrity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a clip structure with legs engaging circumferential grooves is used, then fittings can rotate freely, but the connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip structure serves multiple functions: it provides secure connection, allows free rotation, and maintains seal integrity simultaneously. The circumferential grooves and slot geometry are designed to achieve multiple objectives with a single integrated structure, reducing overall system complexity despite the added rotational capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connector includes a clip, first pipe fitting, and second pipe fitting. The clip includes a cross member having a first end and a second end and a leg extending from each end. The first pipe fitting includes a connecting portion comprising a first end, a second end, and a sidewall having two slots. The second pipe fitting includes a connecting portion and a first end, a second end, a sidewall extending therebetween, and a circumferential groove in an outer diameter of the sidewall. The circumferential groove aligns with the slots in the sidewall of the first pipe fitting when the second pipe fitting is inserted into the first pipe fitting, and the legs of the clip engage the circumferential groove in the connecting portion of the second pipe fitting, allowing the first pipe fitting and the second pipe fitting to rotate with respect to one another.