Three-Way Pipe Clamp Assembly for Fast Sealed Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipeline connection methods are complex, require high skill, and have low efficiency due to the need for multiple connectors and complicated alignment processes, and existing quick mount connectors have high manufacturing costs and poor generality.
Innovation Solution
A three-way clamp with a disassemblable clamp body composed of two shells, each with engaging rings and cavities, and a connecting pipe with expandable sealing components, simplifying the connection process by allowing straightforward insertion and tightening of pipes, reducing operator skill requirements, and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional connectors are used for pipeline connection, then connection reliability is achieved, but the operation becomes complicated and installation efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple independent components: a connector body, a sealing component, and a clamping component. Each component has a specific function, and they can be assembled and disassembled separately. The connector body includes multiple connecting cavities that can connect to different pipes simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate connectors and complex alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing component and clamping component are integrated into a unified structure that works together. The clamping component includes clamping arms that can simultaneously clamp multiple pipes, while the sealing component provides sealing at each connecting cavity. This merging reduces the number of separate operations needed and simplifies the installation process.
2Productivity
If quick mount connectors with integrated components are used, then installation speed is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and generality decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into modular components that can be manufactured separately using standard processes and then assembled. The connector body, sealing component, and clamping component can be produced independently, allowing for economies of scale and the use of standard manufacturing techniques, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining quick installation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is designed with multiple connecting cavities that can accommodate different pipe configurations and orientations. This multi-functional design allows a single connector type to be used for various pipeline connection scenarios, improving generality and interchangeability while maintaining simple assembly operations.
3Reliability
If traditional connectors requiring alignment are used, then connection reliability is achieved, but skill requirements increase and training cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components are designed with clear assembly features and interfaces that guide proper alignment during installation. The clamping arms and connecting cavities have predetermined geometric relationships that naturally align during assembly, reducing the need for operator skill while maintaining reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates self-aligning features where the geometry of the clamping arms and connecting cavities automatically guides proper positioning during installation. This self-service alignment mechanism reduces dependence on operator skill and ensures consistent, reliable connections even with minimal training.
Data Source
AI summary
A three-way clamp includes a first clamp shell and a second clamp shell capable of being connected to or detached from each other. Each of the first clamp shell and the second clamp shell includes three engaging portions. The engaging portion includes an accommodating cavity. The two clamp shells are respectively provided with an engaging claw and an engaging groove. A connector prefabricated component including the clamp includes a connecting pipe fixed in the clamp body, wherein the accommodating cavity is provided with a sealing component for sleeving pipe opening. During construction, a straight pipe to be connected is inserted into the sealing component. Then the clamp body is tightened, and the sealing component tightly presses on a pipe body of the straight pipe to achieve sealing.