Sealable Drain Pipe Coupling With Elastic Tubular Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof drain pipe extension methods, such as using adhesive or pipe couplings, are unreliable due to potential water leakage and flow restriction, and require specific tools and time-consuming installation processes.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with an elastic tubular body and toroid retaining rings, driven by a tightening tool with a cuboid body and angled plane, that securely and sealably connects an insert pipe to an existing drain pipe with minimal flow restriction and easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pipe coupling is used to seal two pipes, then the connection reliability is improved, but the water flow is restricted due to reduced pipe cross sectional area
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is segmented into two separate components: an outer coupling that seals the external surface of the insert pipe, and an inner coupling that seals the internal surface of the drain pipe. This segmentation allows each coupling to be optimized independently, with both couplings working together to provide reliable sealing without restricting water flow in the main drain pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic tubular body acts as an intermediary sealing element between the insert pipe and the drain pipe. It deforms under compression from the retaining rings to create a water-tight seal, while the tool body serves as an intermediary mechanism to apply controlled compression force, ensuring reliable sealing without excessive force that could damage components.
2Reliability
If a pipe coupling is used to seal two pipes, then the connection reliability is improved, but the installation time increases due to need for specific tools and complex installation process
Solution Approach 1:
The installation tool merges multiple functions into a single integrated device: it holds both retaining rings, compresses the elastic tubular body, and secures the insert pipe all in one operation. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and multiple installation steps, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining reliable sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool body is designed to be self-positioning and self-securing. The V-shaped groove automatically aligns with the insert pipe, the retaining rings self-lock into place on the tool body, and the compression mechanism automatically applies the correct force. This self-service design eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures and multiple fastening operations.
3Ease of operation
If adhesive or caulking compound is used to seal the connection of two pipes, then the installation process is simple, but the seal reliability deteriorates due to potential cracks and water leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of adhesives and caulking compounds with a mechanical compression system. The retaining rings apply controlled mechanical force to compress the elastic tubular body against the pipes, creating a reliable seal through physical pressure rather than chemical adhesion. This mechanical approach eliminates the weakness of adhesive seals that are prone to cracking and failure.
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 solution provides a reliable, efficient, and quick method to extend drain pipes with reduced risk of leakage and flow restriction, while simplifying the installation process and reducing the chance of loose components, thus enhancing productivity and ease of manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic tubular body is concentrically positioned over the insert pipe and the existing drain pipe... The increase of diameter of the retaining ring deforms the distal and proximal end of the elastic tubular body to sealably contact with inner surfaces of the insert pipe and the existing drain pipe
Data Source
AI summary
The device is a drain pipe coupling to sealably couple an insert pipe with an existing drain pipe, the drain pipe coupling comprises of an elastic tubular body concentrically positioned over the insert pipe and the existing drain pipe; a first and a second retaining rings having a toroid body which is connected to a tightening tool. Turning a screw on tightening tool causes an increase or decrease of diameter of the retaining ring and deforming the elastic tubular body to sealably contact with inner surfaces of the insert pipe and the existing drain pipe.