Internal Sandwiched Connector for Wastewater Module Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors for wastewater treatment modules are externally mounted, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing and reduced rigidity, and they do not effectively maintain module alignment and rotational stability along the pipe.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a fin sandwiched between core sheets of the module, secured internally to the support pipe, ensuring modules are fixed longitudinally and rotationally in place, enhancing assembly efficiency and maintaining the fabric-soil interface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external connectors with outer flanges are used to hold modules in place, then module positioning is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases and module rigidity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is nested entirely within the module assembly, with the fin positioned between core sheets and the body housed within the module structure. This eliminates external protruding flanges while maintaining positioning functionality, reducing manufacturing complexity and improving module rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning function is extracted from external flanges and transferred to an internal fin structure that is sandwiched between core sheets. This removes the need for external connecting elements, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliable module positioning.
2Reliability
If external connectors with flanges are used, then modules can be held in place, but assembly efficiency decreases due to fitting requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The internal fin structure automatically positions itself between the core sheets during assembly, eliminating the need for manual fitting operations. The module assembly process becomes self-aligning, as the fin naturally engages with the core sheet edges, significantly improving assembly efficiency.
3Reliability
If low-height external flanges are used, then module positioning is achieved, but rotational stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a two-dimensional external flange structure to a three-dimensional internal fin structure that extends between core sheets. This adds a new dimensional constraint that prevents rotational movement, providing superior rotational stability while maintaining compact dimensions.
4Reliability
If external connectors are used, then modules are secured to the pipe, but fabric-soil interface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is fully nested within the module assembly, with no external protrusions that would interfere with the fabric surface. This maximizes the fabric-soil interface area, allowing complete contact between the treatment fabric and surrounding soil for optimal biomat development, while still providing reliable module securing through the internal fin structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for maintaining a module in a fluid treatment unit has a web extending axially relative to an axially extending pipe and a fin extending laterally. The unit is configured to attach to the pipe via the web with the fin extending laterally. Core sheets or other support material is positioned on the pipe on each side of the fin with the pipe extending therethrough to define a support unit of the module. Fabric is wrapped around at least a front face and rear face, optionally all faces and secured in place. The fabric wrapping acts to attach the module with the front and rear support unit portions sandwiching the fin, which maintains the module in its position on the pipe. The connector improves assembly efficiency and fluid flow rate out from the center of the module, which thereby improves treatment of wastewater.