Wye Fitting Clamshell Attachment for Fixed, Leak-Tight Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Attaching wye fittings to other system parts, such as valve ports, is challenging when space is restricted and requires a fixed position, especially with conventional threaded attachments, and clamshells have not been effectively used for this purpose.
Innovation Solution
A modified wye fitting design with axial protrusions and corresponding receptacles, secured by a clamshell fastener, allows for fixed attachment to other system parts, preventing rotation and ensuring a fluid-tight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded attachments are used to connect wye fittings to system parts, then a fluid-tight seal can be achieved, but the assembly becomes complex and difficult in restricted spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface is segmented into discrete engagement features (protrusions and recesses) that simplify the assembly process while maintaining seal integrity. The sealing function is separated from the positioning function, with O-rings providing sealing and the engagement features providing mechanical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
O-rings are introduced as intermediary sealing elements between the wye fitting and the system part. These O-rings mediate the sealing function, allowing a simpler mechanical connection without requiring complex threading while still achieving a fluid-tight seal.
2Strength
If threaded attachments are used to connect wye fittings, then a secure connection is achieved, but the attachment process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement features (protrusions and recesses) are pre-configured on the wye fitting and system part to align automatically during insertion. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for time-consuming threading operations while maintaining strong mechanical connection through the interlocking features.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using external threading that requires rotational fastening, the connection uses internal engagement features where protrusions fit into recesses. This inverted approach to mechanical connection achieves secure attachment through insertion rather than rotation, significantly reducing assembly time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional threaded attachments are used in restricted spaces, then connection is possible, but the operation becomes difficult and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection transitions from a rotational dimension (threading requires circular motion) to a linear dimension (insertion along the axis). This dimensional change allows the connection to be made in restricted spaces where rotational movement is impossible, while maintaining connection capability through the axial engagement features.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment method is inverted from external threading to internal engagement with protrusions fitting into recesses. This inversion enables connection in tight spaces by eliminating the need for external threading operations, making the attachment process easier while preserving connection versatility.
4Stability of the object's composition
If wye fittings require fixed position and orientation, then gravitational drainage is enabled, but threaded attachment becomes impossible in some configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement features are configured with asymmetric protrusions and corresponding recesses that prevent rotational movement while allowing axial insertion. This asymmetric design inherently maintains fixed position and orientation for gravitational drainage while simplifying the attachment process compared to threading.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using threading that complicates fixed-position attachment, the invention uses insertion-based engagement features that naturally maintain fixed orientation. The inverted approach of using protrusions fitting into recesses rather than external threads reduces attachment complexity while preserving the required stability for gravitational drainage.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for connecting a wye fitting to another fluid conduit part of a fluid system includes the wye fitting, the other fluid conduit part and a clamshell fastener. The wye fitting defines a main fluid flow path along an axis A between a first end and a second end. An end of the wye fitting to be connected to the another fluid conduit part is provided with a plurality of first engagement features arranged circumferentially around the end of the wye fitting and an end of the another fluid conduit part is provided with a corresponding plurality of second engagement features arranged circumferentially around the end of the another fluid conduit part configured to engage with the first engagement features. The clamshell is secured around the end of the wye fitting and the another fluid conduit part over the interface between the first and second engagement features.