Universal Rotary Pipe Connector with Adjustable Included Angles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pipe joints are inadequate for complex pipeline connections due to limited adjustability and stability, leading to deviations and warping of pipes, which compromises the quality and durability of pipelines.

Innovation Solution

A universal pipe joint featuring a connection mechanism with an annular boss and a ring buckle that allows adjustable included angles between connectors, facilitated by arc barbs for secure fastening and a seal ring for reliability, enabling flexible and secure connections between pipes with varying angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional pipe joints with fixed curvatures are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to complex pipeline configurations is limited and pipe alignment precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to complex pipeline configurationsVSAvoidjoint structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling the joint body to rotate freely around its central axis, transforming a static fixed-angle joint into a dynamic adjustable joint. The joint body can rotate within a range of at least 360 degrees, allowing the outlet pipe to be positioned at different angles relative to the inlet pipe while maintaining a secure connection. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability to various pipeline configurations without requiring multiple different joint types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pipe joint into distinct functional components: a body portion with inlet and outlet pipes, a joint body that can rotate independently, and a fastening mechanism with fastening members. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while enabling overall adaptability. The joint body's independent rotation capability, separated from the fixed inlet and outlet pipes, provides the necessary flexibility for complex configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the joint allows free rotation for adaptability, then the adaptability improves, but the connection stability and sealing reliability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational freedom for angle adjustmentVSAvoidconnection stability and sealing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating a fastening mechanism that secures the joint body to the body portion before rotation is finalized. The fastening members engage with corresponding structures on the body portion, pre-establishing a stable connection that maintains sealing reliability even when the joint body rotates. This preliminary fastening action ensures that the connection remains stable throughout the rotation range, resolving the contradiction between rotational freedom and connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of pipe joints are used to meet various connection requirements, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and difficulty of selection increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage of connection requirementsVSAvoidnumber of joint types
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single pipe joint that can perform multiple functions through the rotating joint body. This universal joint can accommodate various pipeline configurations including different angles and orientations, replacing the need for multiple specialized joints such as elbow joints, tee joints, and bridge joints. The rotating mechanism allows one joint type to fulfill the roles of several different joint types, simplifying the overall system while maintaining comprehensive adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3018394B1Universal rotary pipe connector
Publication Date: 2017.12.13 JIANGSU HIPPO PLASTICS
  • EP3018394B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3018394B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3018394B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A universal pipe joint includes a first connector (1), a second connector (2), and a connection mechanism. The connection mechanism includes an annular boss (3) and a ring buckle (4) buckled thereto. The ring buckle (4) is adapted to spin relative to the annular boss (3). The annular boss (3) is in a fixed connection to the second connector (2); a first included angle (5) is formed between the center axis of the annular boss (3) and the center axis of the second connector (2). The ring buckle (4) is in a fixed connection to the first connector (1); and a second included angle is formed between the center axis of the ring buckle (4) and the center axis of the first connector (1). The pipe connector is applicable to connection of two pipes with a different included angle, has good sealability, and is firm and stable in fastening.