GB2500222A

GB2500222A - Irrigation system and method having a non-screw fitting

Info

Publication number: GB2500222A
Application number: GB1204456.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Shai Benari
Original assignee: GOLAN PLASTIC PRODUCTS Ltd
Current assignee: GOLAN PLASTIC PRODUCTS Ltd
Priority date: 2012-03-14
Filing date: 2012-03-14
Publication date: 2013-09-18
Anticipated expiration: 2032-03-14
Also published as: PE20141632A1; AR090332A1; CL2013000687A1; GB2500222B; GB201204456D0

Abstract

A non-screw irrigation system and apparatus comprises a distribution pipe 21; a drip pipe 22; and a connection module 24 for sealingly connecting the drip pipe to the distribution pipe, wherein the connection module includes a distribution pipe connection element 27 with a sealing element, a drip pipe connection element 25 with a sealing element, and a drip pipe lock mechanism 26, to sealingly lock and optionally unlock the distribution pipe connection element and the drip pipe connection element. The drip pipe connection element may be a bayonet connection. The distribution pipe may include one or more holes for receiving the distribution pipe connection element, the hole/s having a circular chamfered step for enabling circumferential sealing of the distribution pipe connection element in the hole/s. Also disclosed is a method of configuring an irrigation system and kit for rapid configuration of an irrigation system. The irrigation system is for use in mineral leaching of heaps.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR IRRIGATION SYSTEM ASSEMBLY, DIS-ASSEMBLY AND RE-ASSEMBLY

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to methods and devices useful in irrigation. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods and apparatuses for enabling irrigation system setup.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] In setting up irrigation systems, there is a need to connect between distribution pipes and watering or drip pipes in a secure and reliable way. In many cases there is a need to transport the irrigation system between locations. The easiest way to do such transportation is generally by dragging the system or the components using a vehicle. In typical systems, the connections between the distribution pipes and watering or drip pipes is an external connection, which is liable to be damaged if dragged. Therefore the connections in such systems must usually be disassembled prior to transportation, which requires much resources and time, and typically causes damage to the connections.

[003] In mining in particular, and in other industries in general, mineral leaching is a well known tactic for extracting wanted materials from a material mass. In one example, heap leaching is often performed as an industrial mining process to extract precious metals, copper, uranium, and other compounds from ore. In traditional heap leaching, the mined ore is usually crushed into small chunks and heaped on an impermeable plastic and/or clay lined leach pad where it can be irrigated with a leach solution to dissolve the valuable metals. In one common copper extraction method, ore is excavated and the rocks are crushed and distributed in piles of, for example, 50m wide x 2100m long x 8m high, to be irrigated with materials to enable copper extraction. Irrigation systems may be used for such irrigation processes, and in many cases the systems may be used for periods of time, such as several months. Following such a cycle, in order to reuse the irrigation system, it must generally be disassembled and transported to another location. However this dis-assembly, transportation and setup in a second location requires much caution, time, expense and can often result in equipment

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damage. As described above, since pipe connections are generally external and exposed, transportation of such irrigation systems using dragging is generally not implemented, and typically such systems are fully disassembled including all connections prior to movement of such an irrigation system, leading to much wasted time and often significant damage to the connections or other equipment. Further, When PVC pipes are used, or other pipe types made from less durable materials, these are less durable and cannot be dragged over the ground without being damaged.

[004] It would be highly advantageous to have a system and/or method for disassembly, transportation and reassembly of irrigation systems, to enable a faster, easier and less damaging process than is typically the case.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[005] There is provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a system and method for enabling rapid setup, including assembly, dis-assembly and transportation, of a large irrigation system. According to some embodiments of the present invention, a non-screw irrigation system and apparatus are described, which include a distribution pipe; a drip pipe; and a connection module for sealingly connecting the drip pipe to the distribution pipe, wherein the connection module includes a distribution pipe connection element with a sealing element, a drip pipe connection element with a sealing element, and a drip pipe lock mechanism, to sealingly lock and optionally unlock the distribution pipe connection element and the drip pipe connection element.

[006] In further embodiments, the drip pipe lock element includes a bayonet type lock mechanism adapted to enable non-screw unlocking of the distribution pipe connection element and the drip pipe connection element.

[007] In other embodiments, the distribution pipe includes one or more holes for receiving the distribution pipe connection element, the hole(s) having a circular chamfered step for enabling circumferential sealing of the distribution pipe connection element in the hole.

[008] In further embodiments, the distribution pipe connection element includes a one-directional tooth element for locking the distribution pipe connection element into a hole in the distribution pipe.

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[009] In other embodiments, the drip pipe lock mechanism includes a one-directional flexible tooth element for locking the drip pipe into said distribution pipe lock mechanism.

[0010] In additional embodiments, the drip pipe connection element includes a seal corresponding to the distribution pipe connection element, and one or more teeth elements to enable a sealed connection with the drip pipe.

[0011] According to some embodiments, a method of configuring an irrigation system is provided, the method including inserting a pipe connection mechanism to be sealingly engaged on one side in a Drip Pipe Connector, and on the other side in a Distribution pipe Connector, such that the said distribution pipe connector is configured to remain in a distribution pipe hole permanently; and locking the pipe connection by a bayonet lock mechanism, such that said the connection mechanism can be unlocked using the bayonet lock mechanism.

[0012] In further embodiments, the irrigation system may be configured so as to drag the distribution pipe with the coupled pipe connecting mechanism to a new location for re-assembly.

[0013] In other embodiments, prior to dragging, the distribution pipe may be positioned such that the pipe holes with attached connection mechanisms are facing upwards; and the distribution pipe position may be stabilized so as to maintain upwards facing orientation of holes and connection mechanisms during subsequent dragging.

[0014] In further embodiments the process may include unlocking the drip pipe locking mechanism; pulling out the remaining Drip Pipe from the Distribution Pipe; inserting a Drip Pipe Connector into a replacement Drip Pipe, until sealingly locked in place; and inserting the replacement Drip Pipe with sealingly engaged Drip Pipe Connector into the Drip Pipe Lock mechanism, until sealingly locked in place.

[0015] According to some embodiments, a kit for rapid configuration of an irrigation system is provided, which inlcudes a drip pipe connection module for sealingly coupling to a drip pipe, wherein the drip pipe connection module includes a tooth locking mechanism, and a sealing element, to sealingly lock into a matched distribution pipe.

[0016] In further embodiments, the kit may further include a drip pipe lock mechanism

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to sealingly lock onto the drip pipe connection module, and to enable locking onto a matched distribution pipe.

[0017] In other embodiments, the kit may further include a distribution pipe connection element designed to engage with a stepped hole drilled into a distribution pipe, and a sealing element to sealingly lock into a the distribution pipe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The principles and operation of the system, apparatus, and method according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings, and the following description, it being understood that these drawings are given for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be limiting, wherein:

[0019] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rapid setup irrigation system, according to some embodiments;

[0020] Figs. 2A-2F are graphical representations of pipe connection module components, for a rapid setup irrigation apparatus, according to some embodiments;

[0021] Figs. 3A-3B are graphical representations of an engaged connection module, according to some embodiments;

[0022] Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a series of processes used in configuring an irrigation system, according to some embodiments; and

[0023] Figs. 5A-5B are graphic illustrations describing examples of a pipe drilling apparatus, according to some embodiments.

[0024] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the drawings have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the drawings to indicate corresponding or analogous elements throughout the serial views.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art

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to make and use the invention as provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the described embodiments will be apparent to those with skill in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments shown and described, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features herein disclosed. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

[0026] The word "Pex" as used herein refers to plastic piping such as Cross-linked polyethylene or XLPE, but may also encompass piping made of various other materials or combinations of materials. The word "drag" as used herein may encompass the act of transporting pipes in general, and of doing so by dragging, pulling or pushing pipes over the ground, using vehicles, machines, or other methods used in setting up or dismantling piping systems. The term "irrigation system" as used herein may refer to any piping systems, typically used for, but not limited to, irrigation systems.

[0027] Non-limiting embodiments of the invention include a system and method for enabling rapid setup, including assembly, dis-assembly, transportation and re-assembly of an irrigation system. The system is adapted to enable rapid relocation of the irrigation system by dragging, without such dragging causing substantial damage.

[0028] Reference is now made to Fig. 1 which is a schematic diagram of a rapid transport irrigation system 10, according to some embodiments. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the system piping is substantially constructed from Cross-linked polyethylene, herein referred to as Pex with multiple usage pipe connectors that remain connected to the distribution pipe during system dis-assembly, dragging and reassembly, without sustaining substantial damage. As can be seen in Fig. 1, the irrigation system 10 may include a distribution pipe 11, multiple smaller sized irrigation pipes, such as drip pipes 12, and a connection element 113 to connect the drip pipes 12 to the distribution pipe 11, to enable a simple and reliable fitting which provides a total seal against leakage, and enables quick system assembling, dismantling and transportation. Furthermore, the distribution pipes 11 are adapted to house the pipe connection module 13 substantially internally, such that these easy fit features may be configured for multiple usage fast assembly, dis-assembly and transportation. Of course,

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other piping or connection materials may be used, including polyethylene.

[0029] Reference is now made to Figs. 2A-2F, which are schematic drawings of pipe connection module components, for a rapid setup irrigation apparatus 20, according to some embodiments. As can be seen in Fig. 2A, distribution pipe 21 and drip pipe 22 are coupled via pipe connection module 24, which includes 3 primary elements: drip tube connector 25, drip tube lock or grip ring 26, and distribution tube connector 27, such that pipe connection module 24 enables the drip pipe to be in sealed connection with the distribution pipe, such that the majority of the connection distribution pipe connector remains within the distribution pipe, even during subsequent dis-assembly, dragging transportation and reassembly of the irrigation system. Further, connection module 24 provides a bayonet type join to enable fast connection, locking and disconnection of the pipes. According to some embodiments, a hole 28 is drilled into distribution pipe 21, to allow for entry of connector 27 into the distribution pipe. Hole 28 may be prepared with a raised step 29, including a chamfered neck functioning as a limiting flange, to enable a locked joining of connector element 27 at the correct depth, in such a way as not to damage the seal being engaged in into the drilled hole.

[0030] As can be further seen in Figs. 2A-2F, hole 28 is further designed to receive connection element 27 with sealing element 30, where the sealing element is a cylindrical sealing element, to enable rounded sealing of the entire circumference of the engaged connector 27, within hole 28. Connector 27 and hole 28 are designed to allow connector 27 to be inserted and locked into hole 28, such that the vast majority of the connector lies internally inside pipe 21, and such that a sealed connection is formed with pipe 21. This is a significant advantage for subsequent transportation of pipe 21 as it may be handled easily with connector within, without substantially risking damage to connector 27.

[0031] According to some embodiments, connector 27 is designed with an easy lock mechanism, such as a bayonet type male lock 27c, to receive bayonet type female drip tube lock 26c. In some examples, connection element 27 may include a one directional locking tooth 27a, or other suitable locking element, to hold or fasten entered connector 27 in place inside pipe 21. Tooth 27a may follow the internal contour of the distribution pipe to further prevent rotation of connection element 27 relative to pipe 21. In some examples, inserted connector 27 has a groove 27b designed to accept circumferential

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sealing element 30. Inserted connector 27 is adapted to remain permanently inside distribution pipe 21 even during moving the pipe such as by dragging.

[0032] According to some embodiments, connector element 25 is fitted into drip pipe 22. Connector 25 is designed with circumferential sealing element 31 and with a suitable diameter to enable sealed coupling to connection element 27. Furthermore, connector 25 may include one or more tooth elements 25a for enabled sealed connection with pipe 22. Furthermore, connector 25 may include groove 25b, designed to receive sealing element 31.

[0033] Drip lock or grip ring 26 includes a female bayonet the lock mechanism 26c, which is designed to lock into male bayoneted lock mechanism 27c. Furthermore, Drip lock 26 may include grip handles or holder 26b, to allow opening and closing of bayonet lock feature relative to connector element 27. Further, grip holder 26b may be designed to indicate locking status of connector module on pipe 21. For example, when grip holder is in line with pipe 21 then this may indicate that the lock is engaged, or vice versa. Drip lock 26 may include one directional flexible tooth type lock feature 26e, for receiving drip pipe 22, including connector element 25, by pushing force, such that drip pipe 22 may be engaged with a simple push action, yet may not be removed or disengaged.

[0034] Drip pipe 22 can subsequently be coupled to distribution pipe 21, by inserting pipe 22 into lock mechanism 26, which has been previously connected to connector 27, and together with connector 26 is locked into pipe hole 28. Of course, male drip pipe lock 26 can be unscrewed or released, typically using a partial rotation, to enable fast detaching and/or re-attaching of lock element 26 from/to connector 27, if and when required.

[0035] In some embodiments, a kit for fast setup, assembly, and dis-assembly of distribution pipes to drip pipes is provided, wherein said kit includes a fast assembly drip pipe connector 25 and sealant 31, which is designed to sealingly fit into a distribution pipe which includes distribution pipe connector 27. In further embodiments a kit for fast setup, assembly, and dis-assembly of distribution pipes to drip pipes is provided, wherein said kit includes fast assembly drip pipe connector 25, sealant 31, and drip pipe lock element 26. In still further embodiments a kit for fast setup, assembly, and dis-assembly of distribution pipes to drip pipes is provided, wherein said

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kit includes fast assembly drip pipe connector 25, sealant 31, drip pipe lock element 26, and distribution pipe connector 27 with sealant element 30.

[0036] As can be seen in Fig. 3A, drip pipe 22 may be coupled to distribution pipe 21, using connection module 24, which includes, as can be seen, drip pipe connector 25, drip pipe lock 26, and distribution pipe connector 27. Connection module 24 may be pushed into hole 28, such that drip lock 26 rests on the cut out lip or flange 29. In this position, connectors 25 and 27 are sealingly engaged, and the connectors are locked in place using drip lock 26.

[0037] Fig. 3B shows a cross sectional view of the connection module 24, and the components, drip pipe connector 25, drip pipe lock 26, and distribution pipe connector 27, distribution pipe 21 and drip or irrigation pipe 22. As can be seen the pipe coupling is substantially occurring internally of pipe 21, with sealing elements 30 and 31 being engaged in pipe hole 28. In this way, even following disengagement of pipe 22 from pipe 21, for example, by unscrewing grip holder 26 and pulling out pipe 22 with drip pipe connector 25 and drip lock 26, distribution pipe connector 27 remains coupled to pipe 21, so even if pipe 21 is subsequently dragged during transportation, the external element of connector 27 is minimally exposed thereby allowing for significant damage reduction during such dragging. In further embodiments, when disengaging pipe 22 from pipe 21, pipe 21 may be cut close to connection module 24, allowing for rapid disassembly and dragging, while leaving connection module 24 only marginally exposed beyond the limits of pipe 21, allowing for substantially damage free dragging or transportation.

[0038] In accordance with some embodiments, the dragging of the piping from a first to a second location may be implemented by maintaining the pipe such that the drilled holes with engaged connection elements are in an upward direction. For example, on one side of a pipe being dragged, the pipe may be held in non-rotational position such that all the holes and connections mechanisms are forced into an upright facing direction. Additionally or alternatively, the other side of the piping may be held using a loop or other configuration which ensures that at least the end part of the piping is oriented with the respective holes and engaged connection elements being in an upward direction, so as to force the remainder of the piping to stay in an upward direction or orientation.

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[0039] Fig. 4 is a multiphase flowchart illustrating a series of processes used in assembling, dis-assembling and re-assembling an irrigation system, according to some embodiments. As can be seen in the Assembly phase in Fig. 4, at block 405, holes 28 are drilled into a distribution pipe 21, at selected intervals. For example, holes may be drilled with a standard drill using a special drill bit, and optionally a drill template, for example, 600 mm apart. At block 410 the Distribution Pipe Connector is inserted Into the Distribution Pipe hole, until sealingly locked in place, for example, by engaging tooth 27A and seal 30. In general, blocks 405 and 410 may be executed prior to the assembly of an irrigation system at a first location, such that the distribution pipes arrive at a first location with holes drilled and distribution pipe connectors inserted. At block 415 a Drip Pipe Lock is attached onto the Distribution Pipe Connector and locked in place, for example, using a bayonet lock mechanism. At block 420, a Drip Pipe Connector is inserted into a Drip Pipe, until sealingly locked in place, for example, by engaging tooth or teeth 25A and seal 31. At block 425 the Drip Pipe with the engaged and secured Drip Pipe Connector is inserted into the Drip Pipe Lock, until sealingly Locked in place, for example, by engaging tooth 26e.

[0040] As can be seen in the Dis-assembly phase in Fig. 4, at block 435, the Drip pipe(s) may be cut, preferably with sufficient pipe length remaining to be bendable, so that if dragged, the remaining drip pipe parts may be dragged and bent to prevent entry of dirt, or other damage to distribution pipe connectors. At block 440 the distribution pipe with distribution pipe connector(s) within may be dragged to a second location. In other embodiments, the remaining Drip Pipe may be removed from the Distribution Pipe prior to dragging, such that the distribution pipe connector remains substantially engaged while dragging.

[0041] As can be seen in the Re-assembly phase in Fig. 4, at block 445 the drip pipe lock may be unlocked, for example using the bayonet type lock mechanism. At block 450 the remaining Drip Pipe may be extracted by pulling it out from the Distribution Pipe (i.e. from the unlocked distribution pipe connector), thereby leaving the Distribution Pipe Connector sealingly engaged inside the Distribution Pipe hole. At block 455, the remaining drip pipe may be extracted from the drip pipe lock. At block 460 a new or re-used Drip Pipe Lock may be attached onto the Distribution Pipe Connector and locked in place, for example, using a bayonet lock mechanism. At block 465, a Drip Pipe Connector is inserted into a replacement Drip Pipe, Until sealingly

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locked in place, for example, by engaging teeth as sealant elements. At block 470 the replacement Drip Pipe with the engaged and secured Drip Pipe Connector is inserted into the Drip Pipe Lock, and is sealingly Locked in place, for example, by engaging teeth and seals.

[0042] As can be seen in the above series of processes used in assembling, disassembling and re-assembling an irrigation system, the apparatus enables fast initial assembly by enabling sealed locking of connecting pipes without screwing and/or usage of external sealants, such as teflon or glue etc. Further, the apparatus enables fast system dis-assembly by enabling rapid cutting of drip pipes and rapid unlocking and extraction of drip pipe ends. Still further, the apparatus enables fast re-assembly by enabling sealed re-locking of connecting pipes without screwing and/or usage of external sealants. Any combination of the above steps may be implemented. Further, other steps or series of steps may be used.

[0043] Figs. 5A-5B describe an example of a system and elements for enable hole drilling for pre-assembly preparation of distribution pipes to enable fast setup system conversion. As can be seen in Fig. 5A a standard or specialized drill may be used to drill holes into a distribution pipe. As can be seen in Fig. 5B, a special drill bit may be used, preferably with a stopper element, such a lip or flange, for stopping the hole drilling at the precise depth required, thereby enabling generation of a selected sized hole with a lip, shoulder, ledge or raised step for later engagement of a distribution pipe connector 27.

[0044] The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. It should be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents are possible in light of the above teaching. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

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Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A non-screw irrigation system, comprising:

a distribution pipe;

a drip pipe; and a connection module for sealingly connecting said drip pipe to said distribution pipe,

wherein said connection module includes a distribution pipe connection element with a sealing element, a drip pipe connection element with a sealing element, and a drip pipe lock mechanism to sealingly lock said distribution pipe connection element and said drip pipe connection element.

2. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said drip pipe lock element includes a bayonet type lock mechanism adapted to enable non-screw unlocking of said distribution pipe connection element and said drip pipe connection element.

3. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said distribution pipe includes one or more holes for receiving said distribution pipe connection element, said hole(s) having a circular chamfered step for enabling circumferential sealing of said distribution pipe connection element in said hole.

4. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said distribution pipe connection element includes a one-directional tooth element for locking said distribution pipe connection element into a hole in said distribution pipe.

5. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said drip pipe lock mechanism includes a one-directional flexible tooth element for locking said drip pipe into said distribution pipe lock mechanism.

6. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said drip pipe connection element includes a seal corresponding to said distribution pipe connection element, and one or more teeth elements to enable a sealed connection with said drip pipe.

7. A method of configuring an irrigation system, the method comprising: inserting a pipe connection mechanism to be sealingly engaged on one side in a Drip Pipe Connector, and on the other side in a Distribution pipe Connector, such that the

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said distribution pipe connector is configured to remain in a distribution pipe hole permanently; and locking said pipe connection by a bayonet lock mechanism, such that said pipe connection mechanism can be unlocked using said bayonet lock mechanism.

8. The configuration method of claim 7, further comprising dragging said distribution pipe with said pipe connecting mechanism to a new location for re-assembly.

9. The configuration method of claim 8, comprising, prior to dragging, positioning said distribution pipe such that the pipe holes with attached connection mechanisms are facing upwards; and stabilizing said distribution pipe position so as to maintain upwards facing orientation of holes and connection mechanisms during subsequent dragging.

10. The configuration method of claim 7, further comprising: unlocking said drip pipe locking mechanism; pulling out said remaining Drip Pipe from said Distribution Pipe; inserting a Drip Pipe Connector into a replacement Drip Pipe, until sealingly locked in place; and inserting said replacement Drip Pipe with sealingly engaged Drip Pipe Connector into said Drip Pipe Lock mechanism, until sealingly locked in place.

11. A kit for rapid assembly of an irrigation system according to claim 1, said kit comprising: a drip pipe connection module for sealingly coupling to a drip pipe, wherein said drip pipe connection module includes a one-directional sealing tooth locking mechanism, a distribution pipe connector including a one-directional tooth element for locking a distribution pipe connection element into a hole in said distribution pipe, and a sealing element, to sealingly connect said distribution pipe

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connection element to a distribution pipe; and a drip pipe lock mechanism including a one-directional flexible tooth element for locking said drip pipe lock mechanism to said drip pipe, and a bayonet locking mechanism for locking said drip pipe to said distribution pipe connection element.

11. A kit for rapid configuration of an irrigation system, comprising a drip pipe connection module for sealingly coupling to a drip pipe, wherein said drip pipe connection module includes a tooth locking mechanism, and a sealing element, to sealingly lock into a matched distribution pipe.

12. The kit of claim 11, further comprising a drip pipe lock mechanism to sealingly lock onto said drip pipe connection module, and to enable locking onto a matched distribution pipe.

13. The kit of claim 11, further comprising a distribution pipe connection element designed to engage with a stepped hole drilled into a distribution pipe; and a sealing element to sealingly lock into a said distribution pipe.

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Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows.

What is claimed is:

1. A non-screw irrigation system, comprising:

a distribution pipe;

wherein said connection module includes a sealable distribution pipe connection element, a sealable drip pipe connection element, and a drip pipe lock mechanism independent of said distribution pipe connector element and said drip pipe connector element, to sealingly lock, and optionally unlock, said distribution pipe connection element and said drip pipe connection element, wherein said distribution pipe connection element lies substantially inside said distribution pipe.

5. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said drip pipe lock mechanism includes a one-directional flexible tooth element for locking said drip pipe into said distribution pipe connector element.

6. The irrigation system of claim 1, wherein said drip pipe connection element includes one or more tooth sealing elements for sealing said drip pipe connector element to said drip pipe and further including an independent circumferential sealing element to enable a sealed connection with said distribution pipe connection

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element.

7. A method of configuring an irrigation system, the method comprising:

inserting a pipe connection mechanism to be sealingly engaged on one side in a drip pipe connector, and on the other side in a distribution pipe connector, such that said distribution pipe connector is configured to remain in a distribution pipe hole permanently; and locking said pipe connection by a lock mechanism, such that said pipe connection mechanism can be unlocked using said lock mechanism.

8. The configuration method of claim 7, further comprising dragging said distribution pipe with said pipe connecting mechanism substantially internally housed in said distribution pipe, to a new location for re-assembly.

10. The configuration method of claim 7, further comprising:

unlocking said drip pipe locking mechanism;

pulling out said remaining drip pipe from said distribution pipe;

said remaining drip pipe including the drip pipe connector element;

inserting a new drip pipe connector into a replacement drip pipe, until sealingly locked in place; and inserting said replacement drip pipe with sealingly engaged new drip pipe connector into said drip pipe lock mechanism, until sealingly locked in place.