Universal Pipe Connector Socket for Variable Plug Length Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connectors are limited to accommodating only one type of plug, requiring multiple sockets for different plug types, thereby increasing capital expenditure, and exhibit insufficient compatibility between low and high pressure plugs in compressed air systems.
Innovation Solution
A socket design featuring a cylindrical base with steel balls and biasing units, allowing for three states (inserted, semi-inserted, and non-inserted) and compatible with plugs of varying lengths through adjustable O-ring protrusions, enabling airtightness and compatibility with multiple plug types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of sockets are prepared for different plug types, then compatibility with various plugs is improved, but capital expenditure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of plugs (first plug with increased-diameter portion, second plug with longer front end portion) through a single standardized interface, eliminating the need for multiple specialized sockets and reducing capital expenditure while maintaining full compatibility
2Quantity of substance
If a single socket is designed to accommodate multiple plug types, then capital expenditure is reduced, but ensuring airtightness for all plug types becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The socket incorporates movable support portions (inner support portion and outer support portion) that can dynamically adjust their positions along the axial direction to accommodate different plug lengths and types, while maintaining proper engagement and airtight sealing through coordinated movement of multiple steel balls and support structures
Solution Approach 2:
The socket features localized sealing structures including O-rings positioned at specific locations and multiple steel balls arranged in housing holes that can engage with different portions of various plug types, ensuring that airtightness is maintained at the appropriate local contact points regardless of plug variation
3Device complexity
If the socket structure is simplified to reduce complexity, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the ability to accommodate multiple plug types with varying lengths is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is segmented into distinct functional components including a base portion, movable inner support portion, movable outer support portion, multiple housing holes for steel balls, and biasing units, where each segment performs a specific function that collectively enables compatibility with multiple plug types while keeping individual component designs relatively simple and manufacturable
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 socket design allows for a single socket to accommodate various plug lengths, ensuring air-tightness and reducing capital expenditure by eliminating the need for multiple sockets, while enhancing compatibility and reducing pressure contraction.
Implementation Method 1
a first biasing unit configured to apply biasing force to the valve element in the axial direction; a second biasing unit configured to apply biasing force to the inner support portion in the axial direction; a third biasing unit configured to apply biasing force to the outer support portion in the axial direction and the turning direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a socket compatible with multiple types of plugs having front end portions varying in length and a pipe connector having this socket. The socket 10 of the present invention mainly includes a base portion 18, first steel balls 22 and second steel balls 24 housed in housing holes of the base portion 18, an outer support portion 26 supporting the first steel balls 22 and the like from the outer side, and an inner support portion 25 supporting the first steel balls 22 and the like from the inner side. The socket 10 includes first housing holes 50 in which the first steel balls 22 are housed and second housing holes 52 in which the second steel balls 24 are housed and which are longer than the first housing holes 50 in an axial direction.