Segmented Pipe Collar Assembly for Insect Barrier Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concrete slabs, while acting as a physical barrier against insects like termites, have weak spots around pipes that allow insects to enter and compromise the structural integrity of houses, with existing solutions being cumbersome and time-consuming to install.
Innovation Solution
A collar assembly comprising base members and flange members that slideably engage to form a barrier around pipes, with a locking mechanism and optional insect-resistant materials, effectively sealing gaps between pipes and the concrete slab, and potentially incorporating an active agent for enhanced deterrence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pipes are installed through concrete slabs to provide utility access, then ease of operation (pipe installation) is improved, but reliability (insect barrier integrity) deteriorates due to gaps around pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly is divided into multiple base members (typically three) that can be separately positioned around the pipe and then joined together using flange members. This segmentation allows the barrier to conform to the pipe while maintaining structural integrity and insect-proof sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar assembly is designed to be nested around the pipe, with base members forming a circular barrier that encloses the pipe. The flange members connect the base members in a nested configuration, creating a complete seal around the pipe without requiring the pipe to be removed or the concrete to be disturbed.
2Reliability
If traditional collar assemblies are used to seal around pipes, then reliability (insect barrier) is improved, but ease of manufacture (installation time) deteriorates due to cumbersome installation
Solution Approach 1:
The collar is segmented into multiple base members that can be independently handled and positioned around the pipe. This segmentation simplifies the installation process compared to traditional single-piece collars that require complex positioning and fitting, while still providing a complete seal when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange members are designed to slideably engage with the base members, allowing for dynamic adjustment during installation. This sliding mechanism enables installers to easily position and secure the collar around pipes of varying sizes and positions, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining reliable insect barrier integrity.
3Reliability
If multiple base members are used to form the collar barrier, then reliability (seal integrity) is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collar is divided into multiple identical or similar base members, which simplifies manufacturing and assembly. Each base member has the same structure and function, reducing design complexity while improving seal integrity through the distributed connection points around the pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange members serve a dual function: they connect adjacent base members together and simultaneously provide the sealing interface against the pipe. This merging of connection and sealing functions reduces the overall device complexity compared to having separate connection hardware and sealing elements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention resides in a collar assembly to impede ingress of insects through a concrete slab, the collar assembly comprising two or more base members; and at least one flange member slideably engageable with the two or more base members. The present invention alleviates the problems associated with ingress of insects through a space between pipes and a concrete slab.