Universal Outlet Adapter

Wong, Bryce, 2024. Multi-pipe connector. U.S. Patent 12,123,523, filed March 30, 2022, and issued October 22 2024.

Designed and manufactured in California.

Universal Outlet Adapter - An overview

I engineered a high-performance universal outlet adapter designed to interface seamlessly with 3" and 4" Schedule 40, corrugated, triple-wall, and SDR (sewer and drain) pipes. This adapter is widely used with NDS catch basins and is valued by installers for its ability to connect to multiple pipe standards without requiring separate SKUs or additional field modifications.

A key innovation in the design is the flexible corrugated tab system, which I developed to provide a secure, interference-fit connection with corrugated pipe profiles. To ensure the tabs delivered both flexibility and structural durability, I conducted finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate deflection behavior, stress concentrations, and long-term performance under installation loads.

I modeled the complete geometry in SolidWorks, optimizing the interface features, assembly tolerances, and overall manufacturability. Using 3D printing, I produced and evaluated functional prototypes to validate fit, insertion force, and engagement with various pipe types before moving into tooling.

To ensure robust performance during high-volume production, I completed a Moldflow DFM analysis to assess potential warpage, knit line formation, and fill behavior, enabling design refinements that minimized downstream manufacturing risk.

Throughout development, I led project planning and cross-functional technical reviews with engineering, tooling, quality, manufacturing, and marketing teams to drive alignment and accelerate time-to-market.

The final product delivers a lightweight, durable, and highly versatile adapter that has become a customer-favorite solution for simplifying drainage system installations.