Suction Pipe Seal Assembly for Irregular End Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection devices for suction systems are not universally compatible, often complex, and fail to provide a satisfactory seal, especially when connecting pipes with irregular ends or keying devices.
Innovation Solution
A universal pipe connection device featuring a washer-like seal element made of flexible polyurethane foam that can accommodate pipes with different diameters and irregular shapes, ensuring a secure and sealed connection by utilizing the suction force to maintain the seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a deformable cylindrical seal with an actuation ring is used to create a seal between pipes, then sealing capability is improved, but the device becomes incompatible with pipes having irregular ends, keys, grooves, or non-circular shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible membrane instead of a rigid actuation ring to create the seal. This membrane can deform and adapt to irregular pipe end shapes, keys, grooves, and non-circular cross-sections while maintaining sealing capability. The flexibility allows the seal to conform to various geometries without requiring perfectly smooth and circular edges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the sealing element by using a flexible membrane that can alter its shape and dimensions in response to the pipe end geometry. This allows the seal to adapt its parameters (shape, size, flexibility) to match the specific pipe configuration, thereby achieving both reliable sealing and universal compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conical pipe ends are used to facilitate universal connection, then adaptability is improved, but the pipe diameter must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane seal allows universal connection without requiring conical pipe ends or increased pipe diameter. The membrane adapts to the existing pipe geometry, eliminating the need for dimensional modifications to the pipes themselves.
3Stability of the object's composition
If screw clamps are used to hold a sleeve connection device, then connection stability is improved, but the device becomes complex and sealing becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane seal creates a self-sealing connection that does not require additional fastening mechanisms like screw clamps. The membrane itself provides both the sealing function and the connection stability, eliminating the need for complex external fastening devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sealing function and the connection function into a single flexible membrane element. This unified approach eliminates the need for separate screw clamps and sleeves, reducing device complexity while maintaining connection stability and sealing reliability.
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 device allows for seamless connection of various pipe types, including flexible and chipped pipes, and maintains a sealed interface even with ovalized or irregularly shaped ends, enhancing compatibility and sealing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The device allows for seamless connection of various pipe types, including flexible and chipped pipes, and maintains a sealed interface even with ovalized or irregularly shaped ends, enhancing compatibility and sealing efficiency
Implementation Method 2
an element in the form of abutment serving as a seal to said first pipe, being in the form of a washer placed around said proximal end of said second pipe
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The device (1) has a pipe (3) with a proximal end (4) and a distal end (7), where the proximal end is slaved to a suction system (2). A pipe (5) has a proximal end (6) connected to the distal end of the pipe. A tight assembly includes a connector cooperative with the suction system during vacuum. The connector is formed by distal end of the pipe (3), the proximal end (6) and an element (8) e.g. stop, in a sealing relationship to the pipe (3). A set of interchangeable working elements is connected to a distal end of the pipe (5).