Segmented Pipe Adapter for Tight-Space Pipe Repairs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe adapters with a one-piece design are inflexible and cannot be used in situations where the distance between pipe ends is smaller than their overall length, making them unsuitable for repairs of already laid pipes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe adapter designed in two parts, with connecting and coupling sections, allowing on-site assembly and connection using bayonet locks, enabling connection of pipes with different diameters and offsets, and optionally using intermediate rings for varying distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece pipe adapter design is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the adapter cannot be used when the distance between pipe ends is smaller than the overall length of the adapter
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe adapter is divided into multiple separable components: a first connecting member with a first connecting section, a second connecting member with a second connecting section, and optionally intermediate rings. These components can be assembled on-site to match the actual distance between pipe ends, enabling the adapter to be used in various installation situations including repairs where space is limited.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a one-piece pipe adapter design is used, then the structural integrity is high, but the adapter requires additional axial displacement of pipes for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is segmented into connectable components that can be assembled in place without requiring axial displacement of the pipes. The coupling sections with coupling elements allow the components to be joined securely after being positioned on the pipe ends, eliminating the need for additional axial movement during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
Coupling sections with coupling elements act as intermediaries between the connecting members. These coupling elements facilitate the connection process by providing a mechanism to join the components securely without requiring the pipes themselves to be displaced axially.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pipe adapter is designed in two parts with coupling sections, then flexibility in installation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into two main connecting members that can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site. This segmentation provides flexibility for installation in various situations while keeping each individual component relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling sections are designed with universal coupling elements that can connect the first and second connecting members in various configurations. This multi-functional design allows the same coupling mechanism to handle different installation scenarios without requiring additional specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a pipe adapter (10) for connecting two pipe ends, comprising a first connecting member (12) to a first pipe end of a first pipe and a second connecting member (14) to a second pipe end of a second pipe. It is provided that the connecting members (12, 14) each comprises a connecting portion (16, 18) for connecting to the respective pipe end and a coupling portion (20, 22) for connecting the connecting members (12, 14) to each other.