Integrated Tubular Fluid Joining System with Crimped Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint systems for tubular fluid distribution elements fail to provide stable connections under high fluid pressures, requiring ancillary works and complex equipment, and often result in hydraulic leaks and high costs due to the need for multiple gaskets and precise alignment.
Innovation Solution
An integrated joining system using a tubular element with a cup-shaped end and radial protuberance, combined with a junction block and crimping ring, allows for secure axial retention and easy assembly/disassembly with standard tools, utilizing a single gasket and accommodating non-standard lengths without recreating flanges or grooves, and achieving resistance to internal pressures up to 16 bar with a safety factor of 4.5.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a toroidal elastomeric gasket is used for hydraulic seal, then the seal to internal pressure is ensured, but the resistance to extraction between pipes cannot be guaranteed under certain pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into two functional parts: a toroidal elastomeric gasket for hydraulic sealing and a radial band with radial teeth for mechanical retention. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function - the gasket handles pressure sealing while the band provides extraction resistance through positive mechanical engagement with the pipe wall
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the sealing function and retention function into a single integrated joint system. The radial band fitting combines both the elastomeric gasket for sealing and the toothing mechanism for retention, eliminating the need for separate sealing and retention components while achieving both functions simultaneously
2Device complexity
If radial welding or threading is avoided in joint systems, then the joint can be made simpler, but the resistance to extraction and stability under pressure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The radial band fitting is designed to be self-retaining through its geometric configuration. The frustoconical shape with radial teeth creates a self-locking mechanism where the fluid pressure itself forces the band tighter against the pipe wall, enhancing retention without requiring additional active components or complex assembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The joint system uses composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties: elastomeric material for sealing, metallic or rigid material for the radial band structure providing mechanical strength, and appropriate material combinations that enable both simplicity and high reliability under pressure without requiring welding or threading
3Reliability
If multiple gaskets are used for assembly operations, then the hydraulic seal can be improved, but the cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The radial band fitting is designed as a universal component that simultaneously performs multiple functions: hydraulic sealing through the elastomeric gasket, mechanical retention through radial teeth engagement, and positioning of the joint. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate gaskets and components, reducing both complexity and cost while maintaining sealing reliability
4Reliability
If precise alignment and positioning are required during assembly, then the hydraulic seal can be ensured, but the ease of operation and installation time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The joint system utilizes parameter changes in the form of geometric progression during assembly. The frustoconical shape of the radial band creates a self-aligning effect where the taper angle guides the band into proper positioning as it is installed, automatically achieving the correct alignment and compression of the elastomeric gasket without requiring precise manual alignment by the installer
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 system provides a stable and cost-effective joint that can withstand high fluid pressures, allows for easy assembly and reassembly, and reduces the need for complex equipment and multiple gaskets, ensuring reliable hydraulic seals and efficient installation processes.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric gasket (11) with a circular seal or of other convenient shape contained in a seat (41) of suitable geometry
Implementation Method 2
The pressure applied internally to the pipes cannot, therefore, cause the detachment (extraction) of one tubular element from the other due to the locking system consisting precisely of the deformed sections of the tubular element and fitting
Implementation Method 3
a radial groove (5) which is also concentric, flanked and external to said edge (4), provided with an end edge (6), protruding with respect to the external surface of the tubular element (1)
Implementation Method 4
The anti-slip retention of the tubular element is achieved by pressing radial sectors by means of tools dedicated (mainly hydraulic clamps)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~9
AI summary
Integrated joining system in tubular fluid distribution elements comprising a tubular element (1) having a first enlarged cup-shaped end (2) and a second opposite end (7) equipped with a radial protuberance (8), wherein said first end (2) is equipped with a specially shaped flange (3) having a concentric edge (4) external to the tubular element and a respective cavity (41) facing the inside of said tubular element (1), capable of receiving and retaining inside an elastomeric gasket (11) of circular or other convenient form and wherein said first end (2) is equipped with a radial groove (5) which is also concentric, placed side by side and external to said edge (4), equipped with an end edge (6) protruding with respect to the external surface of the tubular element itself, wherein the assembly of the tubular elements takes place by inserting the end (7) of a tubular element (1) inside the cup-shaped end (2) of a similar tubular element (1) until the end of its axial stroke up to the contact of a base or shoulder (9) of the cup-shaped end (2) with the edge of the second end (7), after said edge has passed the elastomeric gasket (11) housed in the cavity (41), a junction block (10) comprising two semicircles (27, 27') placed radially around the tubular element (1, 1') at this concentric edge (4) and at this end edge (6) which, by tightening itself by means of clamping elements, crimps the two tubular elements (1, 1').