Twist-Lock Pipe Fitting for Axial Adjustment and Secure Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing twist-lock fittings for securing rods are difficult to adjust along the axial direction, making it challenging to position the rod accurately relative to the fitting.
Innovation Solution
A twist-lock assembly for securing a pipe, comprising a plate with an opening and a fitting made of two pieces that can be rotated into a secured position around the pipe, using cams to form a friction connection and allow axial adjustment, even when the pipe axis is misaligned with the opening axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the fitting is designed to securely fix the pipe in place, then the pipe position is stable, but adjustment of the pipe along the axial direction becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic adjustable state through rotational movement. The two fitting pieces can rotate relative to each other around the pipe, allowing the system to dynamically change between secured and unsecured positions, resolving the contradiction between stability and adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting utilizes changes in rotational angle as a parameter to control the state of the pipe securing. By rotating the fitting pieces through different angles, the system can adjust the clamping force and position of the pipe, enabling both secure fixation and easy adjustment along the axial direction.
2Strength
If the fitting pieces are tightly clamped to secure the pipe, then the pipe is firmly fixed, but the pipe cannot be adjusted axially
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting employs dynamic rotational movement between the two fitting pieces to control the clamping state. When rotated to the secured position, the pieces are tightly clamped for strong fixation; when rotated to the unsecured position, the pieces allow axial movement, providing adaptability for position adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is divided into two separate fitting pieces that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows one piece to maintain contact with the pipe for securing strength while the other piece can rotate to adjust the overall clamping state, enabling both strong fixation and axial adjustment capability.
3Device complexity
If the fitting uses a simple friction connection, then the structure is simple, but the securing reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The friction connection is enhanced by introducing dynamic rotational movement. As the fitting pieces rotate into the secured position, the rotational motion generates increased normal force between the pieces and the pipe, thereby enhancing the friction connection and securing reliability without adding complex mechanical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction force is controlled by changing the rotational angle parameter of the fitting pieces. At the secured position, the rotational angle maximizes the normal force and thus the friction connection for reliable securing. The simple friction-based structure is maintained while its effectiveness is optimized through parameter control.
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
Enables easy, tool-free adjustment and secure fixation of the pipe relative to the plate, accommodating misalignment and allowing axial movement without deformation, using a friction connection and rotational mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
the inner sides of the first and second fitting piece substantially face each other for forming a friction connection with the pipe with the inner sides contacting the pipe to secure the fitting with respect to the pipe and the opening
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Twist-lock assembly (1) for securing a smooth pipe (50) relative to a plate, comprising: a plate (11; 400) provided with an opening for insertion of the pipe; a fitting (100) adapted for insertion in the opening around the pipe when the pipe extends through the opening, said fitting comprising: a first fitting piece (110) and a second fitting piece (120), each with an inner side for contacting the pipe; wherein the first and second fitting pieces are moveable relative to the opening, when inserted therein, between: - a secured position around the pipe in which the inner sides of the first and second fitting piece face each other for forming a friction connection with the pip; and - an unsecured position around the pipe for allowing axial movement of the pipe relative to the fitting; wherein the fitting defines three cams (111, 112, 123) adapted for contacting an inner edge of the opening; wherein the inner edge of the opening comprises three radially outer portions (411, 412, 413) for allowing the cams to pass through the opening, and three radially inner portions (414, 415, 416) for abutting two or more of the cams, wherein the first and second fitting piece are jointly rotatable relative to the plate from the unsecured position to the secured position, and wherein in the secured position at least two of the three cams abut the corresponding inner portions of the inner edge so that the first and second fitting piece are clamped towards each other.