Pipe connectors and systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection methods, such as soldering, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, hazardous, and prone to safety risks, especially when connecting refrigerant pipes in confined spaces, and cannot be performed with moisture present in the pipes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector design featuring a housing body with stacked sealing members and a locking member that forms a one-way stop, allowing for a secure and fluid-tight connection without soldering, using a segmented collar or expandable locking mechanism to prevent pipe removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If soldering is used to connect pipe and fitting, then a fluid-tight seal is achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal soldering process with a mechanical insertion system. The fitting includes an insertion bore that receives the pipe end, and a locking mechanism that secures the pipe mechanically without requiring heat, flux, or soldering materials. This mechanical substitution eliminates the time-consuming soldering steps while maintaining connection reliability through the locking mechanism and sealing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the soldering process entirely from the connection system. By removing the need for solder, flux, and heating equipment, the patent simplifies the connection process to basic mechanical insertion and locking operations, significantly reducing labor intensity and connection time while maintaining seal integrity through dedicated sealing components.
2Ease of operation
If soldering is performed in confined spaces near buildings, then pipe connections are made, but safety hazards and fire dangers increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fire-prone soldering process with a cold mechanical connection system. The fitting uses an insertion bore and locking mechanism that secures the pipe through mechanical engagement without generating heat, flames, or hot surfaces. This eliminates fire hazards entirely, making the connection process safe for use in confined spaces near buildings, HVAC equipment, or any location where open flames would be dangerous.
3Ease of manufacture
If soldering is attempted on pipes with moisture present, then connection is attempted, but steam develops and pressurizes the pipe preventing solder flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the heat-dependent soldering process with a mechanical insertion system that is independent of pipe moisture content. The fitting's insertion bore and locking mechanism allow direct mechanical engagement with the pipe regardless of whether moisture is present inside the pipe. This eliminates the problem of steam pressure preventing solder flow, as no heat is applied and no solder is required.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connector includes a housing body arranged to receive a length of pipe including an end section having an enlarged diameter. A locking member split into two or more segments selectively connectable together around the length of pipe outside the housing body. The locking member is configured to lock the length of pipe within the housing body. At least one sealing member is positionable on the length of pipe between the end section and the locking member. At least one sealing member is compressible inside the housing body between the enlarged diameter of the end section of the locking member. A retaining member is positionable on the length of pipe and attachable to the housing body. The retaining member can secure the locking member to the housing body such that the locking member fills a gap outside the housing body between the length of pipe and the retaining member.