Tube Connector Rib Geometry for Easy Insertion and Stable Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connections require calibration and additional steps to address issues like ovality and burrs in cut pipe ends, complicating the insertion of connectors, especially in mechanical connections.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element with circumferential outer ribs of varying angles of inclination, including at least one rib with a steeper angle, facilitates easy insertion and stabilizes the connection, reducing the need for pipe calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If circumferential outer ribs with shallow angles of inclination are used, then the insertion of the connector into the pipe end is facilitated, but the radial force distribution over a larger area impairs the stability of the pipe connection
Solution Approach 1:
The support body is equipped with circumferential outer ribs that have different angles of inclination in different regions. Specifically, ribs with smaller inclination angles (5-15 degrees) are positioned at certain locations to facilitate pipe end insertion, while ribs with larger inclination angles (20-45 degrees) are positioned at other locations to provide adequate radial force concentration for connection stability. This spatial variation in rib geometry allows each region to fulfill its specific functional requirement.
2Ease of operation
If pipe calibration is performed to reduce ovality and remove burrs, then the insertion of the connector is improved, but the process complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential outer ribs with varying inclination angles are designed to automatically compensate for pipe end defects during the insertion process itself. The ribs with smaller angles guide and straighten oval pipe ends, while the varying angles work together to cut through and remove burrs without requiring separate calibration operations. The insertion action itself performs the calibration function, eliminating the need for additional calibration devices and steps.
3Ease of operation
If the outer diameter of the connector and inner diameter of the pipe are coordinated for easy insertion, then the insertion is facilitated, but the connector may fall out under its own weight
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential outer ribs are positioned and angled to perform preliminary engagement with the pipe end during insertion. The ribs with smaller inclination angles make initial contact to guide insertion, while the ribs with larger inclination angles are positioned to engage and lock the connector in place once inserted. This preliminary positioning and engagement arrangement ensures that the connector is retained by the ribs rather than relying solely on diameter coordination, preventing it from falling out under its own weight.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting element (1) for establishing a tube connection between the connecting element (1) and a plastic tube or a metal-plastic composite tube. The connecting element (1) comprises at least one support body (2, 2a) for sliding a tube end (14) onto said support body, said support body being provided with a plurality of peripherally extending outer ribs (3, 3a, 3b, 3c). The at least one support body (2, 2a) has a central axis (4) and an open end (8). At least two peripherally extending outer ribs (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) are inclined at an acute angle (9, 9a, 9b, 9c) with respect to the central axis (4), the acute angle (9, 9a, 9b) at which the peripherally extending outer rib (3, 3a, 3b) is inclined with respect to the central axis (4) being different from the acute angle (9a, 9b, 9c) at which at least one of the peripherally extending outer ribs (3a, 3b, 3c) that is further away from the open end (8) than the peripherally extending rib (3, 3a, 3b) is inclined with respect to the central axis (4).