Compression collar expander assembly and method of use

Abstract

Various embodiments of a compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar are described. For example, the compression collar expander assembly may include a guide plate, a mandrel plate, and a plurality of brackets movably disposed on a top surface of the guide plate. Each bracket of the plurality of brackets may include a body, a guide protruding from the body, and a mold set including a plurality of molds. Each mold may include a base coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of brackets and a tip standing from the base. In some embodiments, the tapered expander is configured to facilitate expanding the plurality of molds.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 401,269, filed on August 26, 2022, entitled “Compression Collar Expander Assembly and Method of Use,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art 1. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a compression collar expander assembly and related methods of use for expanding a tubular compression collar to couple a tube to a fitting. Compression collars may be used in the biopharmaceutical industry for the production of sterile and non-sterile fluid couplings. 2. Background technology

[0005] In the biopharmaceutical industry, there are many applications in which various fluids are stored, mixed, processed and transferred or transported. Such fluids can be expensive, and it is often critical to maintain them in a sterile state. In order to help maintain a sterile state and eliminate the need to clean containers, many fluids are now processed and stored in sterile polymer bags. In order to facilitate the transfer of fluids between different bags, polymer tubing or tubing devices are connected to the barbed ports fixed to the bags.

[0006] One drawback of conventional friction fit connections between tubing and barbed ports is that when the fluid system is pressurized, the applied pressure can cause the tubing to separate or lift from the face of the barbs on the port. This separation can lead to potential leaks and fluid contamination. Another problem exists when a customer handles the fluid system and manipulates the barbed port connection. Such handling can again cause the sealed connection between the barbed port and tubing to be broken, risking contamination of the fluid.

[0007] To help eliminate the above problems, the biopharmaceutical industry uses wire ties, also known as cable ties, which are manually secured around the tubing above each barbed port. The wire ties provide a compressive force on the tubing, creating a sealed engagement between the tubing and the port even when the system is being processed or pressurized.

[0008] Although wire ties have been found to be effective, such use also has its disadvantages. For example, once the wire ties are secured in place, the unused free ends are typically cut off. However, due to the cutting, the remaining free ends now have sharp angles, which can potentially puncture or otherwise damage the polymer bag of the fluid system, especially when the polymer bag is folded over the wire ties for shipping or storage. Although bubble wrap or other packaging can be placed on each wire tie, such processes are time consuming, labor intensive, and prone to error or failure.

[0009] Furthermore, wire ties do not provide uniform compression around the tube to which they are secured. Instead, due to the geometry of the wire ties, there is a location at the intersection where the band portion feeds into the locking head where a gap, or at least reduced compression force, is typically created between the wire ties and the tubing. As a result, there is a weak area between the tube and the barbed port that has a higher probability of leaking and permitting fluid contamination. Wire ties are also problematic in that they can be difficult to attach and it is difficult to control the amount of compression they apply. Furthermore, after tightening the wire ties, they will naturally relax over time, reducing the compression on the port. Other problems exist with the use of conventional wire ties as well.

[0010] In one attempt to address the above-mentioned problems associated with wire ties, an annular compression collar having elasticity has been developed. During use, the compression collar is radially expanded, placed on a tube having a fitting received therein, and then allowed to tighten. As the compression collar elastically tightens, it presses the tube against the fitting to form a sealed connection therebetween. An example of such a compression collar is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0187809, published on July 5, 2018.

[0011] The present application relates to improved apparatus and methods for consistently and evenly expanding a compression collar. Summary of the invention

[0012] Systems and methods are provided for a compression collar expander assembly and a method of expanding a tubular compression collar used to couple a pipe to a pipe fitting.

[0013] In some embodiments, a compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting may include a guide plate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, wherein a plurality of lower guide channels extend through the guide plate. The compression collar expander assembly may include a mandrel plate disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the guide plate, the mandrel plate being rotatable relative to the guide plate, and may have a top surface having expansion channels formed thereon. The compression collar expander assembly may include a plurality of brackets movably disposed on the top surface of the guide plate, and the plurality of brackets may include at least three brackets, the plurality of brackets may be radially spaced apart about an axis extending through the guide plate, and may be radially aligned with the axis. Each of the plurality of brackets may include a body and a guide protruding from the body, the guide passing through a corresponding one of the lower guide channels formed on the guide plate and into the expansion channel. The compression collar expander assembly may include a die set including a plurality of dies, and each die may include a base coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of brackets and a prong upstanding from the base.

[0014] In some embodiments, the expansion channel can have a spiral configuration around the axis. Each tip can have a wedge-shaped configuration, and its opposite side can extend between the inner side and the opposite outer side, and the outer side can be formed with a bend. The bend of the outer side can be a circular arc. The opposite side can converge toward the inner side and can diverge toward the outer side. The multiple molds can include at least 3, at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11 or at least 13 separate molds. Each mold in the multiple molds can be separated from each other, can be radially spaced around the axis, and can be radially aligned with the axis. Each of the multiple brackets can have a mounting hole formed thereon or a mounting column protruding therefrom, each of the multiple molds can have a mounting hole formed thereon or another of the mounting column, and each mounting column can be received by a corresponding mounting hole so that each mold is connected to the corresponding bracket. Each bracket can include a plurality of running wheels, which are rotatably mounted to the body and rest on the top surface of the guide plate. The guide may include a protrusion extending from the body and extending into a corresponding lower guide channel, and a lower guide wheel rotatably mounted to the protrusion and at least partially disposed in the expansion channel. The guide may include a shaft protruding from the body and a lower guide wheel rotatably mounted to the shaft and at least partially disposed in the expansion channel. The plurality of brackets may include at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11 or at least 13 separate brackets. The compression collar expander assembly may include a cover plate fixed to the guide plate so that the plurality of brackets are disposed between the guide plate and the cover plate. The cover plate may have a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, wherein a plurality of upper guide channels are formed on the bottom surface, and each bracket may have an upper guide wheel rotatably mounted to the body and disposed in a corresponding one of the plurality of upper guide channels. The compression collar expander assembly may include a motor coupled to a spindle plate, the motor being configured to rotate the spindle plate in opposite directions. The motor may be a servo motor. Rotation of the spindle plate in opposite directions can cause each of the multiple brackets to move between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein the extended position each of the multiple brackets moves radially outward away from the axis and the retracted position each of the multiple brackets moves radially inward toward the axis.

[0015] In a related aspect, a compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting may include a housing defining a compartment, an expansion mechanism disposed within the compartment of the housing, and a die set including a plurality of dies. The expansion mechanism may include a guide plate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface and a plurality of brackets disposed on the top surface of the guide plate. The plurality of brackets may include at least three brackets, the plurality of brackets may be radially spaced about an axis extending through the guide plate and may be radially aligned with the axis. Each of the plurality of brackets may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position, in which the extended position each of the plurality of brackets moves radially outward away from the axis, and in which the retracted position each of the plurality of brackets moves radially inward toward the axis. Each die may include a base coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of brackets and a prong upright from the base.

[0016] In some embodiments, the housing may have an access opening formed thereon, the access opening may be in communication with the compartment, and the mold set may be removed from the compartment of the housing through the access opening. The compression collar expander assembly may include a cover that may be movable between a first position and a second position, in which the cover blocks the access opening and in which the access opening is unblocked. The housing may include a front panel, a rear panel, and opposing side panels, each of which extends to a top panel, and the access opening may extend through the top panel. The access opening may be circular and may have a maximum diameter of less than 22 cm, 18 cm, or 14 cm. A collection opening may be formed on the housing, a collection box may be removably disposed in a compartment of the housing, and a collection tube may be aligned between the collection opening and the collection box so that when a defective compression collar passes through the collection opening, the compression collar will move down along the collection tube and be deposited in the collection box. The compression collar expander assembly may include a sensor disposed within the housing, and the sensor may be configured to detect when the defective compression collar passes downward through the collection tube. The guide plate may have a plurality of lower guide channels extending therethrough, and the compression collar expander assembly may include a mandrel plate disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the guide plate, and the mandrel plate may rotate relative to the guide plate and have a top surface on which an expansion channel is formed. The expansion channel may have a spiral configuration. Each bracket may include a body and a guide protruding from the body, the guide passing through a corresponding lower guide channel formed on the guide plate and entering the expansion channel. The compression collar expander assembly may include a motor coupled to the mandrel plate, the motor may be configured to rotate the mandrel plate in opposite directions. Each prong may have a wedge-shaped configuration, with opposing sides extending between an inner side and an opposing outer side, and the outer side may be formed with a bend. Each bracket may include a body and a plurality of running wheels rotatably mounted to the body and resting on the top surface of the guide plate. The plurality of brackets may include at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 individual brackets.

[0017] In a related aspect, a compression collar expander system for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting may include a compression collar expander assembly and a plurality of separate die sets. The compression collar expander assembly may include a housing defining a compartment and an expansion mechanism disposed within the compartment of the housing. The expansion mechanism may include a guide plate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface and a plurality of brackets disposed on the top surface of the guide plate. The plurality of brackets may include at least three brackets, the plurality of brackets may be radially spaced about an axis extending through the guide plate and may be radially aligned with the axis. Each of the plurality of brackets may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position, in which the extended position each of the plurality of brackets moves radially outward away from the axis, and in which the retracted position each of the plurality of brackets moves radially inward toward the axis. Multiple separate mold groups can each have different configurations and can each be configured to be removably connected to the expansion mechanism, each mold group can include multiple molds, and each mold can include a base for connecting to a corresponding one of the multiple brackets and a tip upright from the base.

[0018] In some embodiments, the tips of any one of the plurality of die sets may each have the same configuration. The tips of any one of the plurality of die sets may have a configuration different from the tips of any other die set. Each tip may have a wedge-shaped configuration, and its opposite side may extend between the inner side and the opposite outer side, and the outer side may be formed with a bend. The plurality of molds of each mold set may include at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 separate molds. Each of the plurality of brackets may have a mounting hole formed thereon or a mounting post protruding therefrom, and each plurality of molds may have a mounting hole formed thereon or another of the mounting posts, and each mounting post may be received by a corresponding mounting hole so as to couple each mold to a corresponding bracket. The size of each mold in the plurality of mold sets may be designed to pass through an entry opening formed on the housing for coupling with the expansion mechanism. The compression collar expander system may include a cover that may be movable between a first position and a second position, in which the cover blocks the entry opening, and in which the entry opening is not blocked. The guide plate may have a plurality of lower guide channels extending therethrough, the compression collar expander system may include a mandrel plate disposed adjacent to a bottom surface of the guide plate, the mandrel plate being rotatable relative to the guide plate, and having a top surface having expansion channels formed thereon. Each bracket may include a body and a guide member protruding from the body, the guide member passing through a corresponding one of the lower guide channels formed on the guide plate and entering the expansion channel.

[0019] In a related aspect, a die set for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a tube to a fitting may include a plurality of dies, and each die may include an elongated base having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface that may extend between a first end and an opposing second end, and a tip that may stand upright from the top surface of the base at the first end, and may have a wedge-shaped configuration having opposing sides that may extend between an inner side and an opposing outer side, the outer side may be formed with a bend, and a leg that may project downwardly from the bottom surface of the base, the leg having an inner side and an opposing outer side.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer side of the leg can be planar. The inner side of the leg can deviate from the inner side of the tip. The mold set can include a mounting hole that can extend through the base between the top surface and the relative bottom surface. The mold set can include a placement hole that can extend through the base between the top surface and the relative bottom surface and can be spaced apart from the mounting hole. The curvature of the outer side of the tip can be an arc. The opposite sides of the tip can converge toward the inner side and can diverge toward the outer side. The multiple molds can include at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11 or at least 13 separate molds. Each mold in the multiple molds can be separated from each other, can be radially spaced around an axis, and can be radially aligned with the axis.

[0021] In a related aspect, a method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a tube to a tube fitting may include positioning the tubular compression collar on a die of a die set so that the compression collar surrounds the die, the die may be comprised of a plurality of separate prongs radially spaced apart about an axis; and radially displacing a plurality of brackets, the plurality of brackets may be radially spaced apart about the axis so that the plurality of brackets may be moved radially outward away from the axis, each of the plurality of brackets may be coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of prongs, and radial displacement of the plurality of brackets may result in radial displacement of each of the plurality of prongs, which in turn may cause the tubular compression collar surrounding the die to expand radially outward.

[0022] In some embodiments, radially displacing the plurality of brackets can include rotating a spindle plate about a rotation axis, the spindle plate can have a top surface with an expansion channel formed thereon, and the rotation of the spindle plate can cause the plurality of brackets to be radially displaced outward away from the axis. Rotating the spindle plate can include starting a motor coupled to the spindle plate, and the motor can be configured to rotate the spindle plate. Each bracket can include a body having a plurality of travel wheels rotatably mounted thereto. The plurality of brackets can include at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 separate brackets.

[0023] In a related aspect, a method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a tube to a tube fitting may include: selecting a die set from a plurality of die sets, wherein the plurality of die sets may each have a different configuration, each of the plurality of die sets may include a plurality of dies separated from one another, each of the plurality of dies may include a base and prongs upright from the base, the prongs being combinable together to form a die head; coupling the selected die set to an expansion mechanism disposed within a compartment of a housing; assembling a tubular compression collar on the die head of the selected die set coupled to the expansion mechanism such that the tubular compression collar surrounds the die head; and activating the expansion mechanism such that the expansion mechanism causes the selected die head to expand the tubular compression collar radially outward.

[0024] In some embodiments, a method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a tube to a fitting may include moving a cover to open an access opening formed on the housing, wherein the access opening may communicate with a compartment of the housing, and passing a selected die set through the unblocked access opening on the housing for coupling the selected die set to an expansion mechanism. The method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a tube to a fitting may include moving the cover backward to block the access opening before activating the expansion mechanism. The plurality of die sets may include at least 3, at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 die sets, each of which may have a different configuration.

[0025] In a related aspect, a method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a tube to a tube fitting may include positioning an annular first calibration ring around a plurality of prongs that may form part of a die set disposed on a compression collar expander assembly; actuating the compression collar expander assembly such that the plurality of prongs are displaced radially outward so as to be biased against an inner surface of the first calibration ring; removing the first calibration ring from around the plurality of prongs; installing a tubular compression collar around the plurality of prongs; and actuating and compressing the collar expander assembly such that the plurality of prongs are displaced radially outward away from a common axis, wherein the prongs may cause the tubular compression collar to expand radially outward, wherein the compression collar expander may measure a force applied to the first calibration ring by the plurality of prongs and determine whether the measured force is within a predetermined tolerance of a first predetermined force.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first calibration ring may include metal.The first calibration ring cannot be expanded radially outward by the plurality of prongs.

[0027] In a related aspect, a compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting may include a tapered expander and a die set. The tapered expander may include an outer surface having an increasing cross-sectional diameter between a first end and a second end of the tapered expander. The die set may include a plurality of dies, each of which may include a base and a tip upstanding from the base, and each of which may include a tapered inner side extending along the tip, the tapered inner side slidably mating with the outer surface of the tapered expander.

[0028] In some embodiments, the tapered expander may include a conical shape. The compression collar expander assembly may include a compressible material positioned along the outer circumference of the base of each mold of the mold set, and the compressible material may bias the mold set into a compressed configuration. When the tapered expander is in a first position, the compressible material may decompress and force the mold set to a compressed configuration. When the tapered expander is in a second position, the compressible material may be compressible to allow the mold set to form an expanded configuration. Each tip may have a wedge-shaped configuration, and its opposite side may extend between the inner side and the opposite outer side, and the outer side may be formed with a bend. The bend of the outer side may be an arc. The opposite side may converge toward the inner side and may diverge toward the outer side. The inner side may be circular to conform to the outer surface of the tapered expander. The compression collar expander assembly may include a motor coupled to the tapered expander, and the motor may be configured to linearly translate the tapered expander along the longitudinal axis between the first position and the second position. The linear translation of the conical expander into the second position may cause the conical expander to apply an increased radial force to the inner side, thereby causing the die set to radially expand. The linear translation of the conical expander into the first position may cause the conical expander to apply a reduced radial force to the inner side, thereby causing the die set to radially retract. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope.

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a compression collar expander assembly;

[0031] Figure 2 Partially disassembled Figure 1 a perspective view of the expander assembly shown;

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the CPU and memory used in the expander assembly shown;

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a top perspective view of the expander assembly showing the inner cover and associated rails;

[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 a perspective view of the expander assembly shown, illustrating the inner expander mechanism;

[0035] Figure 6 yes Figure 5an enlarged perspective view of the expander mechanism shown with the die set mounted thereon;

[0036] Fig. 7A yes Figure 6 An enlarged top perspective view of the die set is shown;

[0037] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A A bottom perspective view of the die set is shown;

[0038] Figure 8 yes Fig. 7A A perspective view of one of the dies in the die set is shown;

[0039] Fig. 9 yes Figure 6 a front perspective view of the expander mechanism shown;

[0040] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 a cross-sectional side view of the expander mechanism shown;

[0041] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A top perspective view of the mandrel plate of the expander mechanism is shown;

[0042] Fig.12 yes Fig.10 a top perspective view of a guide plate of the expander mechanism shown;

[0043] Fig.13 yes Fig.10 a top perspective view of a channel plate of the expander mechanism shown;

[0044] Fig.14 yes Fig. 9 a top perspective view of the expander mechanism shown showing a plurality of brackets mounted on the guide plate;

[0045] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 an enlarged perspective view of one of the brackets shown;

[0046] Fig.16 yes Fig. 9 a bottom perspective view of a cover plate of the expander mechanism shown;

[0047] Fig.17 Is set in Fig.12 The guide plate shown Fig.15 a perspective view of the bracket shown;

[0048] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 a bottom perspective view of the carriage and guide plate shown;

[0049] Fig.19Partially disassembled Fig. 9 a top perspective view of the expander mechanism shown;

[0050] Fig. 20 Is installed in Fig.15 On the bracket shown Fig. 7A A perspective view of one mold of the mold set is shown;

[0051] Fig.21 Is installed in Figure 6 A perspective view of a compression collar on a die set, wherein the die set is in a retracted state;

[0052] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 a perspective view of a die set shown moved to an expanded state to expand the compression collar;

[0053] Fig.23 yes Fig.21 A perspective view of the compression collar is shown;

[0054] Fig.24 yes Fig. 22 a perspective view of a compression collar shown in an expanded state disposed on a tube aligned with a fitting;

[0055] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 A side view of the assembled compression collar, tube and fitting is shown with the compression collar in a retracted state;

[0056] Fig.26 yes Fig.25 a cross-sectional side view of the assembly shown;

[0057] Fig. 27 Is a single piece Fig.23 A perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a compression collar is shown;

[0058] Fig.28 It has three pieces Fig.23 A perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a compression collar is shown;

[0059] Fig.29 is a perspective view of a plurality of die set assemblies, each of which has a die set of a different size / configuration for Figure 6 The expander mechanism shown;

[0060] Fig.30 is an overview of the use Fig.29 A flow chart of a method for verifying the calibration of an expander assembly using a calibration ring as shown;

[0061] Fig.31A is a front perspective view of an alternative calibration ring;

[0062] Fig.31B yes Fig.31A a rear perspective view of the calibration ring shown;

[0063] Fig.32 is an overview of the use Fig.31A and Fig.31B A flow chart of an alternative method of calibrating the calibration ring expander assembly 10 is shown;

[0064] Fig.33 It is an overview operation Figure 1 A flowchart of a method of an expander component shown in FIG. Fig.23 The compression collar shown is expanded;

[0065] Fig.34 is a perspective view of the placement tool that can be used to manipulate and move Fig. 7A The die set shown;

[0066] Fig.35A is a perspective exploded view of an alternative embodiment of an expansion mechanism including a tapered expander;

[0067] Fig.35B yes Fig.35A a side view of the expansion mechanism shown;

[0068] Fig.35C is along Fig.35B The section line 35C shown is taken Fig.35A a side cross-sectional view of the expansion mechanism shown, showing the tapered expander in a first position;

[0069] Fig.35D is along Fig.35B The section line 35C shown is taken Fig.35A a side cross-sectional view of the expansion mechanism shown, showing the tapered expander in a second position;

[0070] Fig.35E yes Fig.35A A top view of the expansion mechanism shown, showing an embodiment of the die in a compressed configuration; and

[0071] Fig.35F yes Fig.35A A top view of the expansion mechanism is shown, showing the die in the expanded configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] Before describing the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific exemplified equipment, systems, methods or process parameters, which of course may be varied. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0073] All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein, whether supra or infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0074] The terms "comprising," "containing," or "characterized by" are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0075] It should be noted that throughout this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a "slot" includes one, two, or more slots.

[0076] As used in the specification and the appended claims, directional terms herein, such as "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "up", "down", "upper", "lower", "proximal", "distal", etc., are used only to indicate relative directions and are not intended to otherwise limit the scope of the present disclosure or the claims.

[0077] Where possible, similar reference numerals are used in each of the accompanying drawings. In addition, multiple instances of the sub-elements of an element and / or a parent element may each contain separate letters attached to the element number. For example, two instances of a specific element "10" may be labeled "10A" and "10B". In the case, element markings (e.g., "10") without additional letters may be used to generally refer to an instance of an element or any one of these elements. Element markings (e.g., "10A") including additional letters may be used to refer to a specific instance of an element or to distinguish or emphasize the multiple uses of an element. In addition, element markings with additional letters may be used to refer to alternative designs, structures, functions, specific implementations and / or embodiments of an element. For example, two optional exemplary embodiments of a specific element may be labeled "10A" and "10B". In the case, element markings (e.g., "10") without additional letters may be used to generally refer to all instances of any one of an alternative embodiment in an alternative embodiment or an alternative embodiment.

[0078] A plurality of different aspects of the apparatus and system of the present invention can be shown by describing a plurality of components that are connected, attached and / or combined together. As used herein, the terms "connect", "attach" and / or "combine" are used to indicate a direct connection between two components, or where appropriate, to be indirectly connected to each other through an intervening component or intermediate component. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected", "directly attached" and / or "directly combined" to another component, there is no intervening element. In addition, as used herein, the terms "connect", "connected", etc. do not necessarily imply direct contact between the two or more elements.

[0079] Various aspects of the devices, systems, and methods of the present invention may be illustrated with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the terms "exemplary," "embodiment," and "exemplary embodiment" mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration," and should not necessarily be construed as required or preferred or advantageous over other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0080] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure belongs. Although a variety of methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present disclosure, preferred materials and methods are described herein.

[0081] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a compression collar expander assembly 10 incorporating features of the present invention is depicted in FIG. As will be discussed in further detail below, the expander assembly 10 is configured to allow a tubular compression collar 60A ( Fig.23 ) is expanded, and the tubular compression collar is used to connect the pipe to the pipe fitting. The expander assembly 10 and the compression collar 60A can be used in the biopharmaceutical industry to facilitate the use of sterile and non-sterile fluid couplings in fluid transportation. For example, the compression collar 60A can be used to form fluid couplings associated with pipelines, piping devices, fermenters, bioreactors, mixers, storage containers, fluid management systems and other related equipment. However, the expander assembly 10 and the compression collar 60A can also be used in other industries that form sterile and non-sterile fluid couplings, such as the production, distribution and / or use of liquid chemicals, foods or other desired liquids.

[0082] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the expander assembly 10 includes a housing 12 that defines a compartment 14. Although the housing 12 can have a variety of different configurations, in the depicted embodiment, the housing 12 has a generally box-like configuration that includes a front panel 16 and an opposing rear panel 18 with opposing side panels 20 and 22 extending therebetween. The panels 16-22 extend between an upper end 24 and an opposing lower end 26. A top panel 28 is disposed at the upper end 24, the top panel having an access opening 30 extending therethrough and communicating with the compartment 14. The top panel 28 is typically positioned horizontally to function as a tabletop.

[0083] In the depicted embodiment, the entry opening 30 is circular. However, in alternative embodiments, the entry opening 30 can have other shapes, such as polygonal, oval, elliptical, or have an irregular configuration. As will be discussed in further detail below, the size of the entry opening 30 is designed so that an operator can reach the entry compartment 14 through the entry opening 30. In one embodiment, the entry opening 30 has a diameter of at least 10 centimeters (cm), 14 centimeters, 18 centimeters, or 22 centimeters. Other sizes can also be used. In other embodiments, the entry opening 30 can be formed at the upper end 24 of one of the panels 18 to 22 so as to be communicated with the compartment 14.

[0084] A collection opening 70 also extends through the top panel 28. Figure 2 and Figure 5 As depicted, a collection tube 72 defining a passage 73 is disposed within the compartment 14 of the housing 12 and has an upper end 74 aligned with the collection opening 70 and an opposite lower end 76 communicating with a collection chamber 78 disposed within the compartment 14. A waste bin 80 is removably disposed within the collection chamber 78. The waste bin 80 can be removed by forming a shaped portion of the side panel 20 ( Figure 1) is selectively inserted into and removed from the collection chamber 78 so as to communicate with the collection chamber 78. As will be discussed in more detail below, the collection opening 70, the collection tube 72 and the waste bin 80 can be used to easily and efficiently collect and count compression collars 60A that are considered defective or fail to meet compliance requirements during the expansion process. Therefore, the size of the collection opening 70 and the collection tube 72 is designed so that the compression collar 60A can pass therethrough. The collection opening 70 is generally circular, but may also have other shapes, such as polygonal, oval, elliptical or have an irregular configuration. In one embodiment, the collection opening 70 has a diameter that is less than the diameter of the entry opening 30, but is at least or less than 2 centimeters (cm), 3 cm, 5 cm, 8 cm, 10 cm or 12 cm. A sensor 84, such as an optical sensor, can be positioned adjacent to the collection tube 72 and / or the collection chamber 78 for detecting when the compression collar 60A has passed downward through the collection tube 72 and into the waste bin 80. Because the collection opening 70 , collection tube 72 , waste bin 80 , and / or sensor 84 relate to safety and / or compliance features, in some embodiments they may be considered optional and therefore eliminated from the expander assembly 10 .

[0085] Return to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a plurality of wheels 34 are disposed at the lower end 26 of the housing 12, and the housing 12 is supported on the plurality of wheels. In the depicted embodiment, four wheels 34 are used. In other embodiments, the expander assembly 10 can be formed with two, three, or five or more wheels 34. The wheels 34 can be used to enable the expander assembly 10 / housing 12 to be easily and selectively moved. In one embodiment, the housing 12 is combined with the wheels 34 to form a rollable cart. In alternative embodiments, the wheels 34 can be eliminated.

[0086] The housing 12 also includes a frame 36 on which the panels discussed above can be mounted. It should be understood that each of the panels 16, 18, 20, 22, and 28 can each include a single unitary panel, or can include multiple sub-panels coupled together or disposed adjacently. The panels 16, 18, 20, 22, and 28 can be secured to the frame 36 by welding, bonding, or using conventional fasteners.

[0087] The expander assembly 10 also includes a control panel 40 coupled to the housing 12. In the depicted embodiment, the control panel 40 is mounted on a bracket 42 that extends upward from the top panel 28 and is generally fixed to the frame 36. In alternative embodiments, the control panel 40 can be mounted on or incorporated into any of the panels 16, 18, 20, or 22, or otherwise supported on the frame 36 so that the operator can access it. The control panel 40 can include a display screen 44 and a plurality of control switches 46, which can be a touch screen. The display screen 44 and the control switches 46 can be used for startup and operation of the expander assembly 10. Optionally, a scanner 48 is mounted on the control panel 40. In the depicted embodiment, the scanner 48 is a removable handheld scanner that can be manually operated. In other embodiments, the scanner 48 can be securely fixed to the control panel 40 or otherwise mounted on the housing 12. Optionally, one or more containers 49 are mounted on the bracket 42 and / or the control panel 40, in which a plurality of compression collars 60A can be stored for easy access and use.

[0088] Steering Figure 3 , the expander assembly 10 may also include a central processing unit (CPU) 50 and a memory 52. ​​The CPU 50 is programmable for operation of the expander assembly 10, as will be discussed below, and the memory 52 may be any form of computer-readable memory accessible by the CPU 50, such as non-transitory memory. In one embodiment, the CPU 50 and the memory 52 may be housed within the control panel 40 and / or the housing 12 and accessed through the control panel 40 (e.g., Figure 1 shown) to control.

[0089] Return to Figure 1 In one exemplary embodiment, the cover 54 can be used to selectively block and unblock the access opening 30. Specifically, Figure 1 The cover 54 is shown in a first position in which the cover 54 blocks the access opening 30, thereby preventing an operator from reaching and entering the compartment 14 (eg, Figure 2 ). Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the cover 54 is moved to a second position in which the access opening 30 is unobstructed so that an operator can freely reach down through the access opening 30 to enter the compartment 14. Figure 4 As depicted, the cover 54 is generally in the form of a plate, panel or other structure having a flat surface that can cover the access opening 30. The cover 54 can be mounted on rails 56 that enable the cover 54 to slide back and forth between a first position and a second position. Figure 3A drive mechanism 58 electrically connected to the cover 54 (shown) controls the movement of the cover 54 between the first position and the second position. The drive mechanism 58 may include hydraulic, pneumatic, gear, screw, pulley or any other conventional form of drive. As will be discussed below, the cover 54 and related components are safety features for the operator and may be removed in selected embodiments.

[0090] Back to Figure 5 , the expander assembly 10 also includes an expansion mechanism 90 disposed within the compartment 14 and secured to the frame 36 / housing 12 . Figure 6 , an enlarged perspective view of an expansion mechanism 90 having a die set 92 removably mounted thereon is depicted. As will be discussed in further detail below, the combination of the expansion mechanism 90 and the die set 92 is used to selectively expand the compression collar 60A. For example, Fig.21 As depicted, compression collar 60A is disposed on die set 92 when die set 92 is in the retracted position. Fig. 22 As depicted, expansion mechanism 90 has been used to radially expand die set 92 to an expanded position, which in turn facilitates radial expansion of compression collar 60A. The components and operation of expansion mechanism 90 and die set 92 will now be discussed in greater detail.

[0091] Go to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , the die set 92 includes a plurality of dies 96A to 96L that are separate and discontinuous from one another and are radially spaced apart about an axis 98. More specifically, each die 96A to 96L is aligned with the axis 98 and projects radially outward at a different orientation angle, such that the dies 96A to 96L cumulatively surround or extend about the axis 98. In one embodiment, each of the dies 96A to 96L can have the same configuration. This enables each of the dies 96A to 96L to be interchangeable with any of the other dies 96A to 96L in a different orientation while still enabling the die set 92 to be properly used for its intended purpose. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 and Figure 8As depicted, each mold 96 may include an elongated base 100 having a top surface 102 and an opposite bottom surface 104 extending between a first end 106 and an opposite second end 108. A mounting hole 110 and a placement hole 112 extend through the base 100 between the top surface 102 and the bottom surface 104. As discussed in more detail below, the placement hole 112 is optional and may be used to receive tools used when placing and removing each mold 96. In the depicted embodiment, the mounting hole 110 and the placement hole 112 are both circular, and the placement hole 112 is smaller than the mounting hole 110. In alternative embodiments, the mounting hole 110 and the placement hole 112 may have the same or different sizes and / or may have other non-circular configurations. However, it will be apparent from the following discussion that the circular configuration of the holes 110 and 112 facilitates easy installation and alignment of the mold set 92 / mold 96.

[0092] The prongs 114 extend upwardly from the first end 106 of each base 100. Each prong 114 is elongated and has a wedge-shaped cross-section that includes opposing sides 116 and 117 that converge toward an inner side 118 and diverge toward an opposing outer side 120. In one embodiment, the opposing sides 116 and 117 are planar, but not required. The inner side 118 may include a flat surface, a rounded corner, or a pointed ridge. The outer side 120 generally has the configuration of a smooth, continuous curve extending between or disposed between the sides 116 and 117. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer side 120 forms an arc. The outer side 120 is the surface that pushes against the inner surface of the compression collar 60A during radial expansion of the compression collar 60A, as will be discussed further below. The curved form of the outer side surface 120, particularly a curve that is complementary to or close to the curvature of the inner surface of the compression collar 60A, helps provide a more uniform force against the inner surface of the compression collar 60A, thereby providing uniform expansion of the compression collar 60A. In contrast, a non-curved surface that provides a sharp, localized force to the compression collar 60A during expansion may distort or damage the inner surface of the compression collar 60A. Each of the faces 116, 117, 118, and 120 extends upward from the first end 106 of the base 100 to a top surface 121. As depicted, the top surface 121 can be planar, but this is not required.

[0093] like Figure 6 , Fig. 7A and Figure 7BAs shown, when the die set 92 is in the retracted position, the sides 116 and 117 of each die 96 are adjacent to or directly adjacent to the opposite side 116 or 117 of the adjacent die 96, so that the prongs 114 combine to form a die 126 having a cylindrical configuration and a circular cross-section, with the axis 98 being the central axis. The die 126 has a surrounding outer side surface 122 formed by a combination of the outer side surfaces 120, and terminates in a top end surface 128 formed by a combination of the top surfaces 121. The outer side surface 122 also has a cylindrical configuration and a circular cross-section, with the axis 98 being the central axis. When in this retracted state, the die 126 is configured to receive the compression collar 60A (such as Fig.21 ). Although die 126 is depicted as having a flat top face 128, top face 128 may have other configurations. For example, top face 128 may be circular, dome-shaped, conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, or have other configurations. The taper of top face 128 may aid in the alignment and positioning of compression collar 60A on die 126. Fig. 7A As shown, die head 126 may also be formed with an inner side 123 formed by a combination of inner sides 118 that surround or extend around a channel 124 extending through axis 98. The formation of channel 124 may help ensure proper alignment and positioning of die 96 when moved to the retracted state.

[0094] Return to Figure 6 , when in the retracted state, the die head 126 has a height H1 extending between the top surface 102 of the base 100 and the top end surface 128, and has an outer diameter D1. Depending on the size of the compression collar 60A to be expanded, the die set 92 or multiple die sets 92 can be manufactured to have a variety of different sizes of height H1 and diameter D1. Generally, the height H1 increases as the diameter D1 increases. For example, the height H1 can be at least or less than 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, 70mm or 90mm, or a range between any two of the foregoing. Similarly, the diameter D1 can be at least or less than 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, 70mm or 90mm, or a range between any two of the foregoing. Other dimensions may also be used. Typically, but not necessarily, the height H1 of each die set 92 is greater than the diameter D1.

[0095] Return to Figure 7B and Figure 8, a leg 130 projects downwardly from the bottom surface 104 of each base 100. Each leg 130 also has a wedge-shaped cross-section having opposing side surfaces 132 and 133 that converge toward an inner side surface 134 and diverge toward an opposing outer side surface 136. The sides 132, 133, 134, and 136 extend to a bottom surface 138. The opposing side surfaces 132 and 133 may also be planar and are disposed adjacent or abutting a corresponding opposing side surface 132 or 133 of an adjacent die 96 when the die set 92 is in the retracted position. The inner side surface 134 is generally offset from the inner side surface 118, i.e., disposed rearwardly toward the second end 108. In contrast to the outer side surface 120 of the tip 114, which is generally in the form of a curve or arc, the outer side surface 136 of the leg 130 is generally planar for reasons discussed below. When the die set 96 is in the retracted position, the outer side surfaces 136 are again combined to form a surrounding outer surface 140, generally having a polygonal cross-section, while the inner side surfaces 134 surround an opening 142 that communicates with the passage 124. The opening 142 is generally larger than the passage 124, thereby helping each die 96 maintain a generally uniform thickness, thereby helping to ensure uniformity in heat treatment of the dies 96, which are generally made of metal.

[0096] exist FIG. 7B to FIG. 8 In the depicted embodiment, the die set 92 is shown as being formed by twelve individual dies 96. Thus, the arcuate / curved outer side surface 120 of each prong 114 extends at an angle of approximately 30 degrees. In general, increasing the number of dies 96 in the die set 92 increases the uniform radial distribution of the expansion force applied to the inner surface of the compression collar 60A as the compression collar 60A is radially expanded outward by the die set 92. However, as the number of dies 96 in the die set 92 increases, the thickness of each prong 114 decreases, and the surface area of ​​each outer side surface 120 decreases. Reducing the thickness of the prong 114 too much may cause the prong 114 to fail when the expansion force is applied. In addition, as described above, reducing the area of ​​the outer side surface 120 too much may cause undesirable localized deformation on the inner surface of the compression collar 60A.

[0097] As will be discussed further below, the die set 92 can be formed in different sizes for expanding compression collars of different sizes. In view of the foregoing considerations and other factors, the die set 92 for expanding a smaller compression collar 60A generally includes fewer dies 96, while the die set 92 for expanding a larger compression collar 60A generally includes more dies 92. Therefore, depending on the intended use and to optimize performance, the die set 92 can be formed to include or have at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 8, at least 10, at least 12, at least 14, or at least 16 individual dies 96, or have a number of dies 96 within any two of the foregoing numbers. For example, the die set 92 generally has between 4 and 16 dies 96, or more commonly, between 5 and 14 dies 96. Likewise, the lateral side 120 of each prong 114 typically extends at least 15 degrees, at least 20 degrees, 25 degrees, at least 30 degrees, at least 35 degrees, at least 40 degrees, at least 50 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 65 degrees, at least 70 degrees, or at least 80 degrees, or an angle in a range between any two of the foregoing angles. For example, the lateral side 120 typically extends in an angular range between 20 degrees and 80 degrees, with 25 degrees to 65 degrees being more common. Other values ​​may also be used.

[0098] Go to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the expansion mechanism 90 includes a support member 150 that is rigidly fixed to the frame 36 / housing 12 (eg, by using a bracket 152). Figure 2150). A motor 154 is mounted on the support 150 and may be secured to the support by a tubular sleeve 156. As will be discussed further below, the motor 154 may include any motor capable of facilitating rotation of the drive shaft in opposite directions at a predetermined angle. The motor 154 is typically an electric motor, and more commonly a servo motor. The expansion mechanism 90 also includes an expander plate assembly 158 disposed above the support 150. The expander plate assembly 158 may be secured to the support 150 by a plurality of brackets 160. A spindle plate 162 is positioned between the expander plate assembly 158 and the support 150. The spindle plate 162 is capable of rotating relative to the support 150 and the expander plate assembly 158. The drive shaft 164 extends between the motor 154 and the spindle plate 162 while passing through the sleeve 156 so that the motor 154 may facilitate selective rotation of the spindle plate 162 relative to the expander plate assembly 158. The drive shaft 164 rotates around an axis of rotation 169. In the depicted embodiment, the drive shaft 164 includes a main drive shaft 166 extending from the motor 154 and passing through the sleeve 156 and the support member 150, and also includes a flange 168 coupled to the main drive shaft 166 and connected to the spindle plate 162, such as by a keyway 167. In alternative embodiments, the main drive shaft 166 and the flange 168 can be formed as a single, unitary structure.

[0099] Go to Fig.11 , the spindle plate 162 has a top surface 170 and an opposing bottom surface 172, each of which extends between a central opening 174 and a peripheral edge 176. An expansion channel 178 is recessed into the top surface 170, the expansion channel surrounding the central opening 174 and spiraling radially outward as it surrounds the central opening 174. The expansion channel 178 faces the expander plate assembly 158. The opening 174 is provided on the spindle plate 162 so that the bearing assembly 179 (such as Fig.10 The opening 174 may be received therein, and the bearing assembly extends between the end of the drive shaft 164 / main drive shaft 166 and the expander plate assembly 158. The bearing assembly 179 increases the stability of the drive shaft 164 while still enabling the drive shaft 164 to rotate relative to the expander plate assembly 158. In other embodiments, the opening 174 may be eliminated and the end of the drive shaft 164 / main drive shaft 166 may be directly connected to the spindle plate 162.

[0100] Return to Fig.10 Typically, the expander plate assembly 158 includes a guide plate 182, a cover plate 184, and a channel plate 186 disposed between the cover plate 184 and the guide plate 182. The guide plate 182, the cover plate 184, and the channel plate 186 are typically fixed together to prevent relative movement. The guide plate 182 is disposed above the spindle plate 162 and is directly adjacent to the spindle plate.

[0101] like Fig.12As depicted, the guide plate 182 includes a top surface 190 and an opposing bottom surface 192 that extend radially between a central opening 194 and a peripheral edge 196. The guide plate 182 is mounted to the support member 150 (eg, Fig.10 194 ) so that the axis of rotation 169 is centered through the central opening 194. A plurality of guide channels 198 extend through the guide plate 182 between the top surface 190 and the bottom surface 192. The guide channels 198 are linear and elongated and radially aligned with the axis of rotation 169 so as to protrude radially outward away from the central opening 194 and / or the axis of rotation 169 at a position spaced apart from the central opening 194 and / or the axis of rotation 169. The guide channels 198 are equiradially spaced around the central opening 194 and / or the axis of rotation 169, and the number of guide channels 198 is generally equal to the maximum number of dies 96 to be used in any die set 92 to be mounted on the expansion mechanism. In this way, the number of guide channels 198 can be equal to the number of dies 96 that can be used in the die set 92, as previously described. A plurality of guide paths 200 are recessed into the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182 so as to be aligned with a corresponding one of the guide channels 198. The guide paths 200 are linear and radially aligned with the central opening 194 / rotational axis 169 and are disposed between the central opening 194 and the guide channels 198. In alternative embodiments, the guide paths 200 may extend all the way through the guide plate 182 and / or the guide paths 200 may interconnect with their corresponding guide channels 198. The recessing of the guide paths 200 and the lack of direct connection with the guide channels 198 provide the guide plate 182 with improved structural stability.

[0102] Go to Fig.13 , the channel plate 186 has a top surface 206 and an opposing bottom surface 208 that extend between a central opening 210 and a peripheral edge 212. The channel plate 186 is mounted on top of the guide plate 182 such that the rotation axis 169 passes through the central opening 210. A plurality of alignment channels 214 extend through the channel plate 186 between the top surface 206 and the bottom surface 208 so as to communicate with the central opening 210. The alignment channels 214 are elongated and radially aligned with the rotation axis 169 / central opening 210. As described above, the alignment channels 214 are equiradially spaced about the central opening 210 / rotation axis 169, and the number of alignment channels 214 is generally equal to the number of guide channels 198. The bottom surface 208 of the channel plate 186 is located on top of the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182 such that each guide channel 198 is aligned with a corresponding alignment channel 214 (e.g., Fig.14198) and extend along the corresponding alignment channel. The alignment channel 214 is generally wider than the guide channel 198. For ease of manufacturing, the guide plate 182 and the channel plate 186 are formed as separate plates connected together. However, in alternative embodiments, the guide plate 182 and the channel plate 186 can be integrally formed as a single integral unitary structure, that is, formed as a single plate, rather than two plates connected together. Alternatively, the cover plate 184 and the channel plate 186 can be integrally formed as a single integral unitary structure.

[0103] Go to Fig.14 , the channel plate 186 is shown as being disposed to the guide plate 182. As further shown therein, the expander plate assembly 158 also includes a plurality of brackets 220. The number of brackets 220 is generally equal to the number of alignment channels 214 / guide channels 198. Each bracket 220 is received within a corresponding alignment channel 214 so as to rest on the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182. For clarity, Fig.14 One of the brackets 220 is hidden in FIG. Fig.15 As depicted, each bracket 220 includes an elongated body 222 having a top surface 224, an opposing bottom surface 226, and opposing side surfaces 228 and 229, each of which extends longitudinally between a first end 230 and an opposing second end 231. The first end 230 terminates in a first end surface 242, while the second end 231 terminates in a second end surface 244. A nose 246 projects downwardly from the bottom surface 226. Although not required, in one embodiment, the nose 246 may also extend from the first end surface 242. A mounting pin 248 projects upwardly from the top surface 224. As will be discussed below, the mounting pin 248 is configured to be received within the mounting hole 110 of the mold 96 of the mold set 92 (e.g., Fig. 7A As such, the mounting pin 248 generally has a configuration that is complementary to the configuration of the mounting hole 110, as previously described, so that the mounting pin 248 can easily slide into the mounting hole 110. In the depicted embodiment, the mounting pin 248 has a circular cross-section with a cylindrical configuration.

[0104] A pair of spaced-apart wheels 232A and 232B are rotatably mounted on the side surface 228, and a pair of spaced-apart wheels 234A and 234B are rotatably mounted on the side surface 229. For example, in one embodiment, the shaft 235 protrudes outwardly from the side surfaces 228 and 229, such as orthogonally, and the wheels 232 and 234 are rotatably mounted on these side surfaces. The wheels 232 and 234 extend below the bottom surface 226 of the body 222 so that the wheels 232 and 234 can ride directly on the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182 and rotate on the top surface (such as Fig.14The protrusion 236 protrudes downwardly from the bottom surface 226 of the body 222 and is slidably received in the guide channel 198 of the guide plate 182 (as shown in FIG. Fig.18 ). The length of the protrusion 236 is shorter than the length of the guide channel 198 so that when the protrusion 236 slides in the guide channel 198, the bracket 220 can travel back and forth on the guide plate 182.

[0105] A rotatable lower guide wheel 238 extends downwardly from the protrusion 236. Specifically, an axle 240 protrudes downwardly from the protrusion 236, and the lower guide wheel 238 is rotatably disposed on the axle. In this orientation, the axle 240 can protrude orthogonally to the axle 235, and the lower guide wheel 238 can protrude orthogonally to the running wheels 232 and 234 and rotate orthogonally to these running wheels. As described below, the lower guide wheel 238 is configured to be received in the expansion channel 178 of the spindle plate 162 and travel along the expansion channel (such as Fig.11 240 and the lower guide wheel 238 are combined to form the guide member 241. In another embodiment, the protrusion 236 can be removed so that the guide device 241 only includes the shaft 240 and the lower guide wheel 238. In this embodiment, the shaft 240 directly protrudes downward from the bottom surface 226 of the body 222 and is slidably received in the guide channel 198 of the guide plate 182 and passes through the guide channel (as shown in FIG. Fig.18 ). Using the protrusion 236 can have some benefits because by adjusting the length and width of the protrusion 236 received in the guide channel 198, the protrusion 236 can help limit the undesired longitudinal and lateral movement of each bracket 220 on the guide plate 182. Fig.15 As shown, a pair of spaced apart upper guide wheels 250A and 250B are rotatably mounted on the top surface 224 of the body 222. For example, an axis 252 protrudes from the top surface 224, such as being orthogonal to the axis 235 and parallel to the axis 240, and the upper guide wheels 250A and 250B can be rotatably mounted on the axis. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the running wheels 232, 234, the lower guide wheel 238, and the upper guide wheel 250 rotates on a bearing such as a ball bearing or a needle bearing. The use of bearings reduces friction and allows the carriage 220 to be rotated when the motor 154 (such as Fig.10 The bearings 220 and the mold 96 mounted thereon can be easily moved with low input forces (as shown). Thus, the movement of the bracket 220 and the mold 96 mounted thereon can be precisely controlled. In addition, the bearings can be sealed and designed to not require external lubrication, making the assembly conducive to operation in a clean room.

[0106] Go to Fig.16, the cover plate 184 of the expander plate assembly 158 has a top surface 254 and an opposing bottom surface 256 extending between a central opening 258 and a peripheral edge 260. A plurality of upper guide channels 262 are formed on the bottom surface 256 of the cover plate 184 so as to communicate with the central opening 258. The upper guide channels 262 are elongated, linear, and aligned with the central opening 258 and protrude radially outward from the central opening. The upper guide channels 262 are equally radially spaced around the central opening 258, and the number of upper guide channels 262 is generally equal to the number of alignment channels 214 / guide channels 198, as described above. The upper guide channels 262 are configured to receive the upper guide wheels 250 ( Fig.15 ). In one embodiment, the full length of the upper guide channel 262 can extend completely through the cover plate 184 between the top surface 254 and the bottom surface 256. However, in the depicted embodiment, only the first portion 264 of each upper guide channel 262 extending directly from the central opening 258 extends completely through the cover plate 184. The second portion 266 of each upper guide channel 262 extending from the first portion 264 is only recessed into the bottom surface 256. This partial covering of the upper guide channel 262 is optional, but improves safety by covering moving parts and improving the structural integrity of the cover plate 184.

[0107] The bottom surface 256 of the cover plate 184 is located on top of the top surface 206 of the channel plate 186 so that each upper guide channel 262 is centrally aligned with the corresponding alignment channel 214. To facilitate proper alignment and coupling between the cover plate 184, the channel plate 186, and the guide plate 182, pins 268 may be formed to protrude from the top and / or bottom surfaces of the cover plate 184, the channel plate 186, and the guide plate 182, and openings 270 configured to receive the pins 268 may be formed on the opposing top and / or bottom surfaces of the cover plate 184, the channel plate 186, and the guide plate 182 (e.g., Fig.13 2. The guide plate 182, the channel plate 186, and the cover plate 184 may be removably connected together by fasteners such as screws, bolts, clamps, etc., or may be permanently connected together by welding, adhesives, press fits, etc. To withstand the applied loads, the guide plate 182, the channel plate 186, the cover plate 184, and the mandrel plate 162 are typically made of metal such as stainless steel or aluminum. However, other materials having the desired strength characteristics may also be used.

[0108] Although the expansion mechanism 90 can be assembled using a variety of different sequential steps, in one approach, the spindle plate 162 is mounted to the end of the drive shaft 164, such as by using the flange 168, as previously described with respect to FIG. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In this configuration, the motor 154 can be used to selectively rotate the spindle plate 162 in opposite directions relative to the support member 150 over a predetermined angle. Next, the bracket 220 is mounted on the guide plate 182. Specifically, refer to Fig.17 and Fig.18 , the lower guide wheel 238 generally has a diameter greater than the width of the guide channel 198, so that the lower guide wheel 238 cannot pass through the guide channel 198. Therefore, with the lower guide wheel 238 separated from the body 222 of the bracket 220, the bracket 220 is positioned on the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182 so that the nose 246 of each bracket 220 is received within the guide path 200 and the protrusion 236 is received within the corresponding aligned guide channel 198. The lower guide wheel 239 is then secured to the protrusion 236 within the guide channel 198 from below the bottom surface 192 by using the shaft 240. In this position where the length of the protrusion 236 is shorter than the length of the guide channel 198, the bracket 220 can freely roll linearly on the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182 between a retracted position toward the axis 169 and an extended position away from the axis 169. Having the nose 246 in the guide path 200 and the protrusion 236 in the guide channel 198 limits the movement of the carriage 220 along the linear path, i.e., limits excessive lateral and longitudinal movement of the carriage 220. Finally, the attachment of the lower guide wheel 238 from the bottom surface 192 to the protrusion 236 prevents vertical separation of the carriage 220 from the guide plate 182.

[0109] Return to Fig.14 , the channel plate 186 is positioned on the top surface 190 of the guide plate 182 so that each channel 214 partially surrounds the corresponding bracket 220, that is, the channel plate 186 is positioned so that each bracket 220 is received in the corresponding channel 214. The channel plate 186 can be installed on the guide plate 182 before or after the bracket 220 is positioned on the guide plate 182. Alternatively, as previously described, the channel plate 186 can be integrally formed with the guide plate 182, or integrally formed with the cover plate 184. In other embodiments, the channel plate 186 can be removed as long as a gap is formed between the guide plate 182 and the cover plate 184 to accommodate the bracket 220. The channel 214 is large enough to enable each bracket 220 to move between its desired extended position and retracted position. However, the wall of the channel plate 186 that defines each channel 214 provides further protection to prevent excessive radial / longitudinal displacement or lateral displacement of each bracket 220. Before or after positioning the channel plate 186 on the guide plate 182, the guide plate 182 is secured to the support 150, such as by using the bracket 160, so that the guide plate 182 is disposed directly above the spindle plate 162. More specifically, as shown in FIG. Fig.19As shown, for the sake of clarity, the guide plate 182, the channel plate 186 and the selection bracket 220 have been hidden, and the guide plate 182 and the bracket 220 are fixed above the spindle plate 162 so that each of the lower guide wheels 238 is received in the expansion channel 178 of the spindle plate 162. The diameter of each lower guide wheel 238 is slightly smaller than the width of the expansion channel 178, so that the lower guide wheel 238 can roll freely against one of the opposite side surfaces defining the expansion channel 178.

[0110] Finally, if Fig.10 As shown, as previously described, the cover plate 184 is fixed to the top of the channel plate 186 so that the upper guide wheel 250 of each carriage 220 is received in the corresponding upper guide channel 262, and so that the mounting pin 248 of each carriage 220 is received in or aligned with the exposed first portion 264 of each upper guide channel 262. Likewise, the upper guide wheel 250 is slightly smaller than the width of the upper guide channel 262 so that the guide wheel 250 can freely rotate against one of the opposing side walls of the upper guide channel 262. The capture of the upper guide wheel 250 in the upper guide channel 262 helps to further limit the movement of the carriage 220 along the linear path between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0111] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.14 and Fig.19, in the above-mentioned assembled configuration, the motor 154 can be activated to rotate the spindle plate 162 in a first direction beyond a predetermined angle. As the spindle plate 162 rotates, the lower guide wheel 238 travels along the expansion channel 178 toward the radially enlarged end of the expansion channel 178. At the same time, when the lower guide wheel 238 travels along the expansion channel 178, due to the radial expansion of the expansion channel 178, the guide wheel 238 also moves radially outward away from the axis 169, which in turn causes all the brackets 220 to move radially outward to the expanded position. Conversely, the motor 154 can then be activated to rotate the spindle plate 162 in a second direction opposite to the first direction beyond a predetermined angle. Similarly, when the spindle plate 162 is rotated by the motor 154, the lower guide wheel 238 travels along the expansion channel 178 toward the radially tightened end of the expansion channel 178. At the same time, as the guide wheels 238 travel along the expansion passage 178, the guide wheels 238 also move radially inward toward the axis 169, which in turn causes all of the carriages 220 to move radially inward to the retracted position. As the carriages 220 move between the expanded position and the retracted position, the mounting pins 248 on the carriages 220 move along the exposed first portion 264 of each upper guide passage 262. The extent to which the carriages 220 move radially inward and radially outward depends on the angle or rotation imparted to the drive shaft 164 and the spindle plate 162 by the motor 154. That is, the motor 154 can be used to impart different lengths of radial displacement of the carriages 220, depending on the size of the compression collar 60A and the amount of expansion required thereof.

[0112] Although the expansion channel 178 on the spindle plate 162 is Fig.11 174, each of which has a spiral configuration. One or more of the guide wheels 238 may be received within each of the two or more channels. In other embodiments, depending on the desired rotation angle of the spindle plate 162, the expansion channel 178 may include a plurality of separate arcuate or curved channel segments, each of which only partially surrounds the opening 174. Individual guide wheels 238 (such as Fig.19 174. The guide wheels 238 may be positioned within each of the plurality of separate arcuate or curved channel segments. It should also be noted that the guide wheels 238 may be positioned at different locations along the elongated body 222 such that the plurality of separate arcuate or curved channel segments may be located at different radial distances from the opening 174. Other configurations may also be used.

[0113] It should be understood that the use of a spindle plate 162 with a single motor 154 to promote the radial displacement of the carriage 220 has many unique benefits. For example, the spindle plate 162 is a simple element with minimal components that effectively and simultaneously displaces multiple carriages radially. The use of the spindle plate 162 also provides a mechanical advantage and enables the carriage 220 to easily move in the opposite direction. The use of the spindle plate 162 and the motor 154 also makes it easy to control the moving distance and speed of the carriage 220, and the carriage 220 is kept in any extended position within a desired period of time. There are also other benefits. However, in alternative embodiments, it should be understood that the spindle plate 162 and the motor 154 can be replaced by other mechanisms for radially displacing the carriage 220. For example, a separate drive system can be installed to each carriage 220 for radially displacing each carriage. Such drive systems can include gear and chain systems, pulley systems, screw systems, hydraulic or pneumatic rail systems, movable track systems, etc.

[0114] With the expansion mechanism 90 assembled and operated within the housing 12, the die set 92 can be removably coupled to the expansion mechanism. Although not required, attachment of the die set 92 is generally simpler if the expansion mechanism 90 is positioned so that the bracket 220 is in its retracted or original state. The operator can then manually lower the die set 92 through the access opening 30 and couple the die set with the expansion mechanism 90. Specifically, referring to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Fig.10 , the central openings of the guide plate 182, the channel plate 186 and the cover plate 184 are vertically aligned to form a central recess 274 on the expansion plate assembly 158, in which the mold set 92 can be received. The mounting pins 248 protruding upward on the bracket 220 are received in the central recess 274, or received in the exposed first portion 264 of the corresponding upper guide channel 262 of the cover plate 184. Each upper guide channel 262 extends to the central recess 274 and communicates with the central recess. During the installation process, the mold set 92 is vertically oriented above the central recess 274 so that each mold 96 is aligned with the corresponding bracket 220. The mold set 92 is then lowered into the central recess 274 until each mold 96 rests on the top of the body 222 of the corresponding bracket 220, and the mounting hole 110 of each mold 96 receives the mounting pin 248 of the corresponding bracket 220. The legs 130 of each mold 96 are received in the central recess 274.

[0115] More specifically, if Fig. 20As depicted, each mold 96 is mounted on a corresponding bracket 220 such that the bottom surface 104 of the base 100 rests on top of the top surface 224 of the body 222 at the first end 230, the outer side surface 136 of the leg 130 of the mold 96 rests on or is disposed directly adjacent to the first end surface 242 of the body 222, and the mounting pin 248 of each bracket 220 is received within the corresponding mounting hole 110 of each mold 96. In this configuration, each mold 96 is securely and stably mounted on the corresponding bracket 220, and any rotation between the mold 96 and the bracket 220 is excluded or at least limited. For example, the positioning of the flat outer side surface 136 of the mold 96 against the flat first end surface 242 of the body 222 excludes or at least limits any rotation between each mold 96 and the corresponding bracket 220. One benefit of the disclosed configuration of the die set 92 and the expansion mechanism 90 is that it allows all the dies 96 to be simultaneously mounted to the bracket 220 and simultaneously removed from the bracket 220 without the need to attach or remove individual fasteners. In addition, each die 96 can be mounted to any bracket 220, so no specific orientation of the die set 92 is required.

[0116] As described above, the die set 92 and / or individual dies 96 may be manually grasped by an operator and placed on the expansion mechanism 90 / carriage 220. In an alternative embodiment, an operator may use a placement tool to individually grasp the dies 96 and place or remove them on the expansion mechanism 90 / carriage 220. For example, Fig.34 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a placement tool 450 that can be used to grasp and place the mold 96. The placement tool 450 includes a tubular rod 452 having a distal end 454 and an opposite proximal end 456. A handle 458 is mounted on the proximal end 456. In the depicted embodiment, the handle 458 includes a central body 460 and a pair of finger supports 462A and 462B projecting radially outward from opposite sides of the central body.

[0117] A spring-biased plunger 464 is slidably disposed within the rod 452 and has a terminal end 466 that protrudes toward the proximal end of the handle 458. Small openings 468A and 468B extend through the side of the rod 452 at the distal end 454. A pair of balls 469 are disposed within the rod 452 and are aligned with a corresponding one of the openings 468A and 468B. During operation, the operator pushes the plunger 464 distally into the rod 452, thereby placing it in a depressed position. When in the depressed position, the balls 469 are free to move radially inwardly so that they do not protrude beyond the openings 468A and 468B. When the plunger 464 is released, the spring resiliently pushes the plunger 464 back to the retracted position. When in the retracted position, the plunger 464 presses the balls 469 radially outwardly so that the balls partially protrude through the corresponding openings 468A and 468B and over the outer surface of the rod 452.

[0118] refer to Figure 7B and Fig.34 , each mold 96 includes holes 470A and 470B that extend laterally through opposite sides of the base 100 so as to extend to and communicate with the placement hole 112. The size of the distal end 454 of the rod 452 of the placement tool 450 is designed to be slidably received in the placement hole 112 of the mold 96. More specifically, during use, the operator moves the plunger 464 to the depressed position and advances the distal end 454 of the rod 452 into the placement hole 112 of the corresponding mold 96 so that the openings 468A and 468B are aligned with the holes 470A and 470B. The plunger 464 is then released, which moves the plunger 464 back to the retracted position and forces the ball 469 to protrude through the opening 468 and enter the hole 470, thereby securing the mold 96 to the placement tool 450. The operator can then use the placement tool 450 to easily and correctly position the mold 96 on the bracket 220 (such as Fig. 20 Once the mold 96 is positioned, the operator again moves the plunger 464 back to the depressed position, which allows the placement tool 450 to be freely removed from the placement hole 112 and separated from the mold 96. The same process can also be used to remove the mold 96 from the expansion mechanism 90 / carriage 220. Other placement tool configurations can also be used.

[0119] As the die set 92 is coupled to the carriage 220, the dies 96 of the die set 92 simultaneously move radially with the carriage. More specifically, when the carriage 220 moves radially between its extended position and retracted position by the rotation of the spindle plate 162, the dies 96 of the die set 92 also simultaneously move radially between its extended position and retracted position.

[0120] Steering Fig.23, which is an enlarged view of the compression collar 60A, which can be selectively expanded by the expander assembly 10 / expansion mechanism 90 as described above. The compression collar 60A includes a tubular body 300 extending between a first end 302 and an opposite second end 304. The first end 302 terminates at a first end surface 306, and the second end terminates at a second end surface 308. The tubular body 300 has an inner surface 310 extending between the opposite ends 302 and 304 and an opposite outer surface 312. The inner surface 310 defines a passage 314 extending through the body 300, and more specifically, the passage extends between the opposite end surfaces 306 and 308. The passage 314 generally has a circular cross-section at all points between the opposite ends 302 and 304. The passage 314 also generally has a constant diameter at all points between the opposite ends 302 and 304. In some embodiments, the diameter may taper slightly to one of the ends 302 or 304 to better facilitate some production methods, such as injection molding. The passageway 314 will typically have a constant diameter over at least or less than 40%, 60%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or 98% of the length of the passageway 314, or within a range therebetween.

[0121] Depending on the intended use and depending on the size of the tube used with the compression collar 60A, the compression collar 60A can be formed to have various sizes. In some embodiments, the maximum diameter of the passage 314 can be at least or less than 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, 70mm or 90mm, or in the range between any two of the foregoing. Other sizes can also be used. The compression collar 60A can also have a length extending between the end faces 306 and 308, which can be at least or less than 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, 70mm or 90mm, or in the range between any two of the foregoing. Other sizes can also be used. Typically, although not required, the length of the compression collar 60A is usually greater than the diameter.

[0122] The compression collar 60A also includes a first spacer 318A and a spaced second spacer 318B that protrude outwardly from the first end 18 of the tubular body 12, and more specifically, from the first end face 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the spacers 318A and 318B face oppositely and are disposed on opposite sides of the first end face 306. Each spacer 318A and 318B terminates at a terminal face 320 and has shoulders 322 and 324 extending from opposite ends of the terminal face 320 to the first end face 306. The compression collar 60A includes a first window 326A defined between the shoulders 322 of the spacers 318A and 318B and a second window 326B defined between the shoulders 324 of the spacers 318A and 318B. The windows 326A and 326B extend laterally through the compression collar 60A to communicate with the passageway 314.

[0123] It should be appreciated that the spacers 318 can have a variety of different widths, i.e., the distance between the shoulders 322 and 324 along which the spacers 318 extend along the first end face 306. For example, with reference to the entire annular length of the first end face 306, each spacer 318 can have a width that is at least or less than 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, or 70% of the entire annular length of the first end face 306, or in a range between any two percentage values. The spacers 318 also typically have a height H2 extending between the first end face 306 and the terminal face 320 that is at least or less than 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, or in a range between any two of the aforementioned values. The height H2 can vary based on the diameter of the tubular body 300. For example, in some embodiments, the height H2 can increase as the diameter increases.

[0124] The compression collar 60A is typically constructed of a polymeric material having memory properties, i.e., the material will elastically rebound to its original shape when stretched. One common example of a polymeric material having memory properties that can be used to form the compression collar 60A is cross-linked polyethylene, which is often abbreviated as PEX. PEX is typically formed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). PEX contains cross-links in the polymer structure that turn a thermoplastic into a thermoset. Depending on the manufacturing process and the specific material type used to form the compression collar 60A, the cross-linking can be accomplished before, during, or after the compression collar 60A is formed. The desired degree of cross-linking is typically between 65% and 89%. Higher levels of cross-linking can result in brittleness and stress cracking of the material, while lower levels of cross-linking can result in a product with inferior physical properties.

[0125] For some cross-linking materials, for example, some HDPE materials, cross-linking or at least a substantial portion of cross-linking may be achieved automatically during the manufacturing process, especially if the material forming the compression collar is heated during the forming process. Silane or "moisture cure" methods may also be used to additionally promote the desired cross-linking. In this method, the formed compression collar is placed in a heated water bath or in a heated environmental chamber with a relative humidity between 60% and 98% and allowed to cure for a sufficient time to achieve the desired cross-linking. Other applications of heat and moisture may also promote the desired cross-linking.

[0126] For some alternative cross-linking materials, cross-linking can be achieved by applying radiation, such as electron beam radiation (e-beam), to the polymer, as is generally known in the art. For example, in one method of cross-linking the polymer, the compression collar 10 is subjected to an e-beam of at least or less than 50 kGy, 60 kGy, 70 kGy, or 80 kGy, or an e-beam within a range between any two of the foregoing values, after molding. Other amounts may also be used. A mechanical e-beam generator may be used to generate the e-beam.

[0127] In one manufacturing method, the compression collar 60A can be formed by a molding process such as injection molding. The injection molding process heats the material, which can promote at least most of the required cross-linking. The use of the injection molding process enables the compression collar 60A to be easily formed with rounded corners so as to avoid or limit sharp angles. Typically, the compression collar 60A will be molded and then subjected to a post-cross-linking process, as discussed above. However, due to the manufacturing process and / or by applying heat and / or humidity during manufacturing and / or applying radiation during manufacturing, the desired cross-linking can be achieved during the initial manufacturing process. It should be understood that other molding processes such as blow molding, rotational molding, etc. can also be used to form the compression collar 60A. Other manufacturing processes can also be used to form the compression collar 60A. For example, the compression collar 60A can be machined or cut from an extruded material tube. Other methods can also be used.

[0128] like Figure 24 to Figure 26As depicted, the compression collar 60A can be used to fix the tube 338 to the pipe fitting 348 so that a liquid-tight seal is formed between the tube 338 and the pipe fitting 348. More specifically, the tube 338 includes a surrounding sidewall 339 having an inner surface and an opposite outer surface. The inner surface defines a channel 340 extending along the length of the tube 338. The tube 338 has a first end 342 that terminates at a terminal face 344. The tube 338 is also typically made of a polymeric material having memory properties. Although in some embodiments, the tube 338 can be made of the same material as the compression collar 60A, as discussed above, the tube 338 is typically made of a material different from the material of the compression collar 60A. Typically, the elastic modulus of the material of the tube 338 is lower than the elastic modulus of the material of the compression collar 60A. That is, the material of the tube 338 is typically more flexible than the material used to form the compression collar 60A. Examples of materials that can be used for the tube 338 having a lower elastic modulus include silicone, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Other materials may also be used.It should be appreciated that the tube 338 may have any desired diameter and any desired length.

[0129] The term "tube connector" used in the specification and the appended claims is widely intended to include any type of connector or other structure designed to be connected to the tube 338. For example, the tube connector 348 may include a coupling connector, a union connector, a port connector, a plug connector, a T-shaped connector, a Y-shaped connector, an elbow connector, a reducer connector, an adapter connector, etc. The tube connector 348 may be an independent structure, or may be attached to or configured to be attached to another structure, such as a bag, a container, a tube or other connector. Typically, at least a portion of the tube connector 348 is designed to be received in the channel 340 of the tube 338 for connection with the tube. It is common that the tube connector 348 is tubular so that a sealed fluid connection can be formed between the tube connector 348 and the tube 338. However, in other embodiments, such as when the tube connector 348 is a plug, the tube connector 348 does not have to be tubular.

[0130] In the depicted embodiment, the pipe joint 348 comprises a coupling joint for coupling two separate pipe fluids together. The pipe joint 348 comprises a rod 350 having a first end 352 and an opposite second end 354. An annular barb 356A having a truncated cone configuration is formed on the outer surface of the rod 350 at the first end 352 and radially surrounds the outer surface. The barb 356A includes an annular outer shoulder 358. Although the rod 350 is shown to have a single barb 356A formed thereon, in other embodiments, the rod 350 may be formed with at least or less than one, two, three, four or more continuous or spaced barbs 356A formed thereon. An annular barb 356B having the same configuration and elements as the barb 356A is formed on the outer surface of the rod 350 at the second end 354 and radially surrounds the outer surface. Again, the rod 350 may be formed with at least or less than one, two, three, four or more barbs 356B formed thereon. Although not required, a flange 360 ​​having opposing sides surrounds and extends radially outward from the rod 350 at a location between the barbs 356A and 356B. As also shown, the rod 350 can be tubular with an inner surface defining a passage 362 extending through the rod 350 between the opposing ends 352 and 354.

[0131] The fitting 348 is typically molded from a polymeric material. However, other materials and molding processes may also be used. The fitting 348 is also typically made from a material different from the material used to form the tube 338 and the compression collar 60A. In addition, the elastic modulus of the material used to form the fitting 348 is typically greater than the elastic modulus of the material used to form the tube 338 and the compression collar 60A. In other words, the fitting 348 is typically less flexible than the tube 338 and the compression collar 60A.

[0132] In one method of use, the expander assembly 10 / expansion mechanism 90 is initially used to radially expand the compression collar 60A. Fig.24 Once the compression collar 60A is in the expanded state, the first end 342 of the tube 338 defining the passage 340 is advanced into the passage 314 of the compression collar 60A.

[0133] The first end 352 of the fitting 348 is advanced into the passage 340 of the tube 338 either before or after the first end 342 of the tube 338 is advanced into the passage 314 of the compression collar 60A. The fitting 348 is typically advanced into the passage 340 before the compression collar 60A is significantly tightened so that the compression collar 60A does not interfere with the insertion of the fitting 348. Furthermore, the tube 338 is typically sufficiently flexible so that the fitting 348 can be manually pressed into the passage 340. However, in other embodiments, a tool or machine may be used to assist in the insertion of the fitting 348.

[0134] The fitting 348 is typically advanced until the side of the flange 360 ​​abuts the terminal face 344 of the tube 338. As needed, the assembled fitting 348 and tube 338 are moved so that the terminal faces 320 of the spacers 318A and 318B abut the side of the flange 360 ​​of the fitting 348. That is, the fitting 348 and tube 338 can be assembled outside the compression collar 60A and then moved into position. Alternatively, the tube 338 or the fitting 348 can be held in a desired position relative to the compression collar 60A while the other of the tube 338 or the fitting 348 is coupled thereto. In this method, once the tube 338 and the fitting 348 are coupled together, there is no need to move the tube 338 or the fitting 348 relative to the compression collar 60A. After the fitting 348 and tube 338 are properly positioned, the compression collar 60A is automatically resiliently rebounded toward the retracted state. The compression collar 60A at least resiliently rebounds to have an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the tube 338, thereby compressing the tube 338. As the compression collar 60A resiliently contracts, it pushes and contracts the tube 338 radially inwardly to form a uniform annular fluid-tight seal between the tube 338 and the barbs 356A.

[0135] The windows 326 and 328 enable visual inspection of the first end 342 of the tube 338 to ensure that the first end 342 of the tube 338 remains adjacent to or abuts the flange 360, while the compression collar 60A is positioned adjacent to or abuts the flange 360, thereby ensuring that both the tube 338 and the fitting 348 are properly positioned within the compression collar 60A so that the compression collar 60A creates the desired fluid-tight seal between the tube 338 and the fitting 348.

[0136] Depending on the circumstances, variations in the assembly process may also be used. For example, if the tube 338 has a free second end 343 opposite the first end 342, the tube 338 and the fitting 348 may be coupled together outside the compression collar 60A. Once assembled, the second end 343 may be advanced through the passage 314 of the compression collar 60A until the spacers 318A and 318B abut against the flange 360 ​​of the fitting 348. In yet another alternative, the compression collar 60A may be configured so that in the expanded state, the fitting 348 (including the flange 360) may be completely passed through the passage 314. In this embodiment, the tube 338 and the fitting 348 may again be coupled together outside the compression collar 60A. Once assembled, the fitting 348 with the tube 338 therein may be advanced through the compression collar 60A until the sides of the flange 360 ​​are aligned with the terminal faces 320 of the spacers 318A and 318B. The assembly may then be held in this position until compression collar 60A is sufficiently tightened so that spacers 318A and 318B abut flange 360. Other assembly methods may be used as appropriate.

[0137] In alternative embodiments, it will be appreciated that the compression collar 60A may be formed with 1, 3, 4, or more spaced-apart spacers 318, or the spacers 318A and 318B may be eliminated. Fig. 27 6B is depicted in FIG. Compression collar 60B has the same structural elements as compression collar 60A and is used in the same manner as compression collar 60A, except that compression collar 60B eliminates second spacer 318B and thus includes only first spacer 318A protruding from first end 302 of tubular body 300. Spacer 318A defines opposite ends of a single window 326A extending between opposing shoulders 322 and 324 of first spacer 318A.

[0138] exist Fig.28 In another alternative embodiment depicted, a compression collar 60C is provided. Compression collar 60C has the same structural elements as compression collars 60A and 60B and is used in the same manner as compression collars 60A and 60B, except that compression collar 60C also includes a third spacer 318C that protrudes longitudinally from the first end face 306 of the tubular body 300. Again, spacers 318A, 318B, and 318C are shown protruding from the terminal face 306 and defining windows 326A, 326B, and 326C therebetween.

[0139] Further alternative embodiments of compression collars and related methods of use that may be used with the expander assembly 10 / expansion mechanism 90 are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0187809, published on July 5, 2018, which is incorporated herein by specific reference.

[0140] Fig.29 , a plurality of die sets 92A to 92J are depicted, each of which can be used as a replacement for die set 92 discussed previously, and each of which has the same structural components as die set 92 and can be used in the same manner as die set 92. As such, identical elements between die set 92 and each of die sets 92A to 92J are represented by the same reference numerals. Specifically, each die set 92A to 92J includes a plurality of dies 96 that can be coupled to and operated on the expander assembly 10 / expansion mechanism 90, as previously discussed with respect to die set 92, for expanding the compression collar 60A or any other compression collar discussed herein. Generally, the die sets 92A to 92J differ from one another in that they each have a die head of a different size. Specifically, the die sets 92A to 92J have dies 126A to 126J, respectively. The dies 126A to 126J differ from one another in that they each have a different diameter D1 and / or height H1 (see Figure 6). Specifically, in the depicted embodiment, the diameter D1 and height H1 of the die 126A to 126J gradually increase for each successive die set 92A to 92J. The possible sizes and ranges of diameter D1 and height H1 of each die 126A to 126J are the same as discussed above with respect to die 126. Some of the die sets 92A to 92J have more dies 96 and corresponding tips 114 than other die sets. For example, die sets 92A to 92F are described as each having six dies 96, while die sets 92G to 92J each have twelve dies 96. In other embodiments, each of the die sets 92A to 92J can have other numbers of dies 96, such as discussed above with respect to die set 92. However, except for the size of the tip 114 / die 126, the remainder of each die 96 of each die set 92A to 92J has the same or substantially the same configuration as the previously discussed die 96, so that they can also be used on the same expander assembly 10 / expansion mechanism 90. That is, all of the dies 126A to 126J are engaged with the bracket 202.

[0141] Each die set 92A to 92J / die 126A to 126J is designed to operate with compression collars 60 of different sizes or different ranges of sizes. As previously discussed, compression collars 60 may be of a variety of different sizes, depending on their intended use. Given the potentially wide range of different sizes of compression collars 60, multiple different sized die sets may be used so that each die set optimally expands a particular size of compression collar 60A or a narrow range of different sizes of compression collars 60. For example, each die set 92A to 92J may be configured to expand at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, or at least more or a range between any two of the aforementioned values ​​of different sizes of compression collars 60. In one embodiment, each of the die sets 92A to 92J may be configured to expand 3 to 7 different sizes of compression collars 60, or more commonly 4 to 6 different sizes of the compression collars.

[0142] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a compression collar expander system is provided. The system includes an expander assembly 10 and a plurality of different sized die sets 92. That is, the expander assembly 10 and the plurality of different sized die sets 92 are sold together as a kit type to form a system. Fig.29In the example shown, the system can be provided with die sets 92A to 92J, as described above. In other embodiments, the system can be provided with more or fewer die sets of different sizes, depending on the intended use. For example, in alternative embodiments, the compression collar expander system can include an expander assembly 10 and at least 2, at least 4, at least 6, at least 8, at least 10, at least 12, or at least 14 die sets 92 of different sizes or within a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0143] Likewise Fig.29 As depicted, each mold set 92A to 92J can be part of a tray assembly. For example, the tray assembly 370J includes a tray 372J having a mold set 92J, a low calibration ring 374J, and a high calibration ring 376J, each of which is removably mounted on the tray 372J. The tray 372J can be provided with complementary slots and / or protrusions for securely receiving the mold set 92J, the low calibration ring 374J, and the high calibration ring 376J. Each calibration ring 374J and 376J includes an annular ring, as described below, which can be used to verify that the expander assembly 10 is correctly calibrated for use with the mold set 92J. The calibration rings 374J and 376J are typically made of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, but other rigid materials, such as rigid plastics or composite materials, can also be used. Each calibration ring 374J and 376J has an annular inner surface 378 that surrounds a channel 380 extending therethrough and having a certain diameter. The inner surface 378 and the channel 380 are generally circular, wherein the diameter of the channel 380 of the high calibration ring 376J is greater than the diameter of the low calibration ring 374J. More specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, when the smallest compression collar 60 has been expanded by the die set 92J, the diameter of the inner surface 378 of the low calibration ring 374J can correspond to the inner diameter of the smallest compression collar 60 designed for use on the die set 92J, and when the largest compression collar 60 has been expanded by the die set 92J, the diameter of the inner surface 378 of the high calibration ring 376J can correspond to the inner diameter of the largest compression collar 60 designed for use on the die set 92J.

[0144] As depicted, each of the other die sets 92A to 92K can also be formed as part of a tray assembly having a corresponding tray, a low calibration ring, and a high calibration ring. The same numbers can be used to identify the same elements between different tray assemblies. Since each die set 92A to 92J has a different size die head 126, the calibration ring has a different size for each tray assembly 370A to 370J.

[0145] Fig.30 Is provided when using Fig.29 When a die set is selected from the die sets 92A to 92J shown, how to verify Figure 1 Flowchart of one example of calibration of the expander assembly 10 shown. In step 390, the operator starts the expander assembly 10 and requests to select / change a die set. All input by the operator may be through touch input on the display screen 44 and / or through the control switch 46. In step 392, the operator is prompted with a code corresponding to the die set 92 selected from the die sets 91A-92J and selected or entered into the expander assembly 10. The selected die set is selected based on the desired size of the compression collar 60 to be used. In this example, die set 92J is the selected die set. The code may include an alphabetic and / or numeric code that is typically marked directly on each die set. For example, see Fig.29 In step 394, after the die set code is selected / entered, the expander assembly 10 is programmed to automatically move the cover 54 to the closed position (see Figure 1 ), and if not already done, move the expander mechanism 90 to the retracted position, such as Figure 6 In step 396, the cover 54 then automatically moves to the open position (see Figure 2 ), and the operator manually passes down through the access opening 30 and removes any die sets currently installed on the expansion mechanism 90. The operator then grasps the selected die set 92J, manually passes it down through the access opening 30, and installs it on the expansion mechanism 90, as previously described with respect to Fig. 20 The discussed and Figure 6 As previously described, the placement tool 450 (see Fig.34 ) moves the die set 92 to successively move each of the dies 96. In step 398, one or more sensors within the housing 12 of the expander assembly 10 may be used to automatically detect that the selected die set 92J has been properly placed on the expansion mechanism 90. For example, Figure 5 As shown, optical sensors 386A and / or 386B, such as laser micrometers, can be used to detect the presence of a newly installed mold set 92J and confirm that it has been properly installed. The placement of the selected mold set 92J can be confirmed on the display screen 44. In an exemplary embodiment, the optical sensors 386A and / or 386B can scan using a light beam that passes laterally through the mold set 92J or extends vertically along the mold set 92J.

[0146] In step 400, the expander assembly 10 now begins the calibration verification routine specific to the selected die set 92J. In step 402, the operator is prompted and assisted to install the low calibration ring 374J on the die 126J of the die set 92J. More specifically, with the cover 54 in the open position, the operator manually passes the low calibration ring 374J downward through the access opening 30 and slides the low calibration ring 374 over the die 126J so that the low calibration ring 374J rests freely on or toward the bottom of the die 126J.

[0147] In step 404, the operator may input that the lower calibration ring 374J has been installed and / or the sensors 386A and / or 386B may detect its installation. The cover 54 is then moved to the closed position and the expansion mechanism 90 is automatically operated to expand the die set 92J outwardly by a predetermined distance. Specifically, the expander assembly 10 using the motor 154 automatically radially expands the die set 92J by a predetermined distance, which is equal to the distance that the die set 92J will expand when the first diameter compression collar 60 designed to operate with the die set 92J is expanded. The first diameter compression collar 60 is typically the smallest diameter compression collar designed to operate with the die set 92J. The expander assembly 10 then directly or indirectly measures the force applied by the die set 92J on the inner surface of the lower calibration ring 374J. In one embodiment, the applied force can be measured by using a servo motor as the motor 154. The expander assembly 10 then compares the measured force to the known predetermined force that the die set 92J will actually apply to the first diameter compression collar 60 when expanding the first diameter compression collar 60 the same distance. If the compared force is within the predetermined tolerance range, the expander assembly 10 is properly calibrated to expand the first diameter compression collar 60, and the process moves to step 406. If not, the expander assembly 10 is not properly calibrated to expand the first diameter compression collar 60. If the verification process fails, the process can return to step 392 to repeat the verification process, or further recalibration steps can be taken.

[0148] In step 406, the cover 54 is moved to the open position. The operator then manually removes the low calibration ring 374J and replaces it with the high calibration ring 376J. Again, the placement of the high calibration ring 376J can be automatically detected by the sensor 386 and / or notified by operator input. The cover 54 is then moved to the closed position. In step 408, the same process discussed above in step 404 with respect to the low calibration ring 374J is now repeated for the high calibration ring 376J. Specifically, the expander assembly 10 automatically radially expands the die set 92J a predetermined distance that is equal to the distance that the die set 92J will expand when expanding the second diameter compression collar 60 designed to operate with the die set 92J. The second diameter compression collar 60 has a larger inner diameter than the first diameter compression collar and is typically the largest diameter compression collar designed to operate with the die set 92J. The expander assembly 10 then directly or indirectly measures the force applied by the die set 92J on the inner surface of the high calibration ring 374j. Likewise, the applied force may be measured by using a servo motor as the motor 154. The expander assembly 10 then compares the measured force to the known predetermined force that the die set 92J will actually apply to the second diameter compression collar 60 when expanding the second diameter compression collar 60 the same distance. If the compared force is within the predetermined tolerance range, the expander assembly 10 is correctly calibrated to expand the second diameter compression collar 60. If not, the expander assembly 10 is not correctly calibrated to expand the second diameter compression collar 60. In the latter case, the process may return to step 392 to repeat the verification process, or further recalibration steps may be taken.

[0149] If the verification process using the high calibration ring 376J is successful, the process moves to step 410, where the die set 92J is moved to the retracted position and the high calibration ring 376J is removed. In step 412, the die set conversion calibration is complete. Once the verification process using the low calibration ring 374J and the high calibration ring 376J is completed and satisfied, the calibration of the expander assembly 10 using the die set 92J is also verified by extrapolation, which is used to expand other predetermined compression collars 60 having an inner diameter size between the inner diameter size of the first diameter compression collar 60 and the inner diameter size of the second diameter compression collar 60. Such other predetermined compression collars 60 can be at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, or at least more other compression collars having an inner diameter size between the first compression collar and the second compression collar. Therefore, the verification process does not require that all compression collars be expanded by the same die set. If it is desired to expand a compression collar 60 designed to operate with a different sized die set, the above process steps 390 through 412 are repeated for the new die set.

[0150] In an alternative exemplary embodiment, a single calibration ring may be used with each mold set 92A to 92J to verify that the expander assembly 10 is properly calibrated for use with the corresponding mold set. Fig.29 As shown, the tray assembly 370J can be formed to simply include a tray 372J with a mold set 92J mounted thereon, namely the lower alignment ring 374J and the upper alignment ring 376J, and the complementary slots and / or protrusions for mounting them on the tray 372J can be eliminated. Other tray assemblies 370 can be formed similarly.

[0151] Fig.31A and Fig.31B , an exemplary calibration ring 480 is depicted that can be used to verify that the expander assembly 10 is properly calibrated for use with a corresponding mold set. The calibration ring 480 includes a tubular body 482 extending between a first end 484 and an opposite second end 486. The tubular body 482 has a cylindrical inner surface 488 at the first end 484 that surrounds a first channel 490. An annular shoulder 492 protrudes radially inward from the inner surface 488 at the second end 486. The annular shoulder 492 has a cylindrical inner surface 494 that surrounds a second channel 496 that has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the first channel 490. Although not required, in this embodiment, the first channel 490 is in communication with the second channel 496. The calibration ring 480 essentially forms two separate calibration rings coupled together. Specifically, the inner surface 488 at the first end 484 forms an enlarged first calibration ring for use with a larger diameter die set 92, while the inner surface 494 at the second end 486 forms a smaller second calibration ring for use with a smaller diameter die set 92. In an alternative embodiment, the calibration ring 480 can be divided into two separate calibration rings, such as Fig.29 Calibration rings 374J and 376J are shown. However, as described below, in this embodiment, only one calibration ring is required for each mold set 92 for the verification process. Using calibration rings 480 during the verification process minimizes the components and thus simplifies the verification process.

[0152] Fig.32 Is provided when using Fig.29 A selected one of the die sets 92A to 92J shown and Fig.31A and Fig.31B How to verify the calibration ring 480 shown Figure 1Flowchart of an alternative example of calibration of the expander assembly 10 shown. In step 390A, the operator activates the expander assembly 10 and requests to select / change a die set. All input by the operator may be via touch input on the display screen 44 and / or via the control switch 46. In step 392A, the operator is prompted with a code corresponding to the die set 92 selected from the die sets 91A-92J and selected or entered into the expander assembly 10. The selected die set is selected based on the desired size of the compression collar 60 to be used. In this example, die set 92J is the selected die set. The code may include an alphabetic and / or numeric code that is typically marked directly on each die set. For example, see Fig.29 In step 394A, after the die set code is selected / entered, the expander assembly 10 is programmed to automatically move the cover 54 to the closed position (see Figure 1 ), and if not already done, move the expander mechanism 90 to the retracted position, such as Figure 6 In step 396A, the cover 54 then automatically moves to the open position (see Figure 2 ), and the operator manually passes down through the access opening 30 and removes any die sets currently installed on the expansion mechanism 90. The operator then grasps the selected die set 92J, manually passes it down through the access opening 30, and installs it on the expansion mechanism 90, as previously described with respect to Fig. 20 The discussed and Figure 6 As previously described, the placement tool 450 (see Fig.34 ) moves the die set 92 to successively move each of the dies 96. In step 398A, one or more sensors within the housing 12 of the expander assembly 10 may be used to automatically detect that the selected die set 92J has been properly placed on the expansion mechanism 90. For example, Figure 5 As shown, optical sensors 386A and / or 386B, such as laser micrometers, can be used to detect the presence of a newly installed die set 92J and confirm that it has been properly installed. The placement of the selected die set 92J can be confirmed on the display screen 44.

[0153] In step 400A, the expander assembly 10 now begins the calibration verification routine specific to the selected die set 92J. In step 402A, the operator is prompted and assisted to install the calibration ring 480 on the die 126J of the die set 92J. More specifically, with the cover 54 in the open position, the operator manually passes the calibration ring 480 downward through the access opening 30 and slides the calibration ring 374 over the die 126J so that the die 126J is received within the first channel 490 of the calibration ring 480. Whether the first channel 490 or the second channel 496 of the calibration ring 480 is used to receive the die 126 depends on the die set 92 being used. Specifically, as described above, the first channel 490 can be used with a larger die 126, while the second channel 496 can be used with a smaller die 126. The expander assembly 10 can decide which channel 490, 496 to use based on the input values ​​of the die set 92 being used.

[0154] In step 404A, the operator may input that the calibration ring 480 has been installed and / or the sensors 386A and / or 386B may detect its installation. The cover 54 is then moved to the closed position and the expansion mechanism 90 is automatically operated to expand the die set 92J outwardly by a predetermined distance. Specifically, the expander assembly 10 using the motor 154 automatically radially expands the die set 92J by a predetermined distance, which is equal to the distance that the die set 92J will expand when expanding a predetermined compression collar 60 designed to operate with the die set 92J. The expander assembly 10 then directly or indirectly measures the force applied by the die set 92J on the inner surface 488 of the calibration ring 480. In one embodiment, the applied force can be measured by using a servo motor as the motor 154. The expander assembly 10 then compares the measured force with a known predetermined force that the die set 92J will actually apply to the predetermined compression collar 60 when expanding the predetermined compression collar 60. If the compared forces are within the predetermined tolerance range, then the expander assembly 10 is properly calibrated to expand the compression collar using the die set 92J. If not, then the expander assembly 10 is not properly calibrated to expand the compression collar using the die set 92J. If the verification process fails, then the process can return to step 392A to repeat the verification process, or further recalibration steps can be taken.

[0155] If the verification process is successful, the process moves to step 410A, in which the mold set 92J is moved to the retracted position and the calibration ring 480 is removed. In step 412A, the mold set conversion calibration is completed. Once the verification process is completed and satisfied as described above, the calibration of the expander assembly 10 using the mold set 92J is also verified by extrapolation, which is used to expand other predetermined compression collars 60 of the size expanded on the mold set 92J. Such other predetermined compression collars 60 can be at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4 or more other compression collars. Therefore, the verification process does not require that all compression collars are expanded by the same mold set. If it is desired to expand a compression collar 60 designed to operate with a different size mold set, the above process steps 390A to 412A are repeated for the new mold set.

[0156] With the die set 92J installed on the expander assembly 10 and properly authenticated, the expansion of the compression collar will now be discussed in conjunction with the flow chart shown in FIG. 31. Specifically, in step 420, the operator enters the code corresponding to the compression collar to be expanded into the expander assembly 10. Only those codes corresponding to compression collars that are approved for expansion by the installed die set (i.e., die set 92J) will be accepted. The code of the desired compression collar can be manually entered by the operator, or can be entered by using a scanner 48 ( Figure 1 ) is scanned by scanning a bar code or other scannable code located on the desired compression collar. This example assumes that the compression collar 60A is installed. However, it should be understood that the installed compression collar can be any configuration disclosed herein that is sized to be expanded by the die set 92J. If not already open, the cover 54 is moved to the open position and the operator manually forces the selected compression collar 60A down through the access opening 30 and onto the die set 92J. Specifically, the compression collar 60A is typically advanced onto the die 126J until the compression collar 60A is securely seated against the base of the die 126J (see Fig.21). The compression collar 60A can be configured so that the tabs 318A and 318B protrude above the top face of the die 126J, or they can be positioned against the side of the die 126J. In step 422, once the compression collar 60 is manually positioned on the die 126J, the operator inputs to begin the expansion process. Next, in step 424, the cover 54 is automatically moved to the closed position, and in a subsequent step 426, the sensors 386A and / or 386B verify that the compression collar 60A is present and / or properly positioned on the die set 92j / die 126J. In addition, the sensors 386A and / or 386B can also detect the outer diameter of the installed compression collar 60A to confirm whether it matches the desired compression collar previously input. If any of the above fails, in step 428, the cover 54 is moved to the open position and the operator is prompted to correct the defect, after which the above process is repeated.

[0157] If the conditions of step 426 are met, the process moves to step 428, where the expansion mechanism 90 associated with the die set 92J is used to radially expand the installed compression collar 60A by a predetermined radial distance based on the size of the compression collar 60A. The compression collar 60A expands at a predetermined rate and is maintained in the expanded position by the die set 92J for a predetermined time. Expansion of the compression collar too quickly can produce unnecessary stress and / or unnecessary plastic deformation on the compression collar. In addition, keeping the compression collar in the expanded position for a period of time helps to delay elastic rebound to the initial unexpanded state, thereby providing the operator with enough time to achieve the desired use of the compression collar. In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion rate of the compression collar can be between 1mm / s and 15mm / s, more commonly between 2mm / s and 10mm / s, or between 3mm / s and 8mm / s. Other expansion rates can also be used. The expansion rate can vary depending on the size of the compression collar, wherein the expansion rate of a compression collar of a smaller diameter is generally slower than that of a compression collar of a larger diameter. The time that the compression collar remains in the expanded state is usually in the range between 0.2 seconds and 5 seconds, more usually between 0.2 seconds and 3 seconds or between 0.2 seconds and 1 second. Other values ​​mentioned above may also be used depending on the actual situation.

[0158] If it is determined by the expander assembly 10 that any of the above expansion conditions are not met, the die set 92J moves to the retracted position, the cover 54 moves to the open position, and the expander assembly 10 prompts the operator to remove the unqualified compression collar 60 and place it in the waste bin 80 at step 430. Specifically, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5, the operator manually removes the unqualified compression collar 60A from the die set 92J and deposits it in the collection opening 70. The unqualified compression collar 60A travels down the collection tube 72 and is deposited in the waste bin 80. The sensor 84 can detect the presence of the unqualified compression collar 60A, which further ensures proper verification. The above process steps are then repeated with a new compression collar 60A.

[0159] If the conditions of step 428 are met, the sensors 386A and / or 386B can be used in step 430 to detect the outer diameter of the installed compression collar 60A while maintaining the expanded state. The expander assembly 10 compares the detected outer diameter with the predetermined expected value of the outer diameter to confirm that the compression collar 60A has been properly expanded. If the measured outer diameter is not within the predetermined tolerance range of the expected value, the step 430 discussed above is applied, and the unqualified compression collar 60A is removed and transferred to the waste bin 80 via the collection opening 70. If the expansion conditions are met, in step 432, the expander assembly 10 / expansion mechanism 90 moves the mold set 92J to the retracted position. In step 436, the cover 54 is moved to the open position and a removal timer is started on the display screen 44. In one embodiment, the removal timer is set to 10 seconds. However, depending on the current facts, other time limits may be used, such as at least 2 seconds, at least 4 seconds, at least 6 seconds, at least 8 seconds, at least 10 seconds, at least 12 seconds, at least 16 seconds or at least 20 seconds, or within the range between any two of the aforementioned values. The timer is part of the verification process and helps to ensure that the expanded compression collar is removed and used quickly. Delays in removal and use can cause the compression collar to elastically tighten to the extent that the compression collar cannot be correctly applied to the pipe and pipe joint. If the compression collar 60A is not removed within the specified time as determined by the sensors 386A and / or 386B, the operator is again prompted to discard the unqualified compression collar 60A into the waste bin 80. Then repeat the above step 430. However, in step 438, the operator correctly removes the expanded compression collar 60A within the described time period and uses it to correctly fix the pipe to the pipe joint, as described above. The process can then be repeated for other compression collars.

[0160] The use of the expander assembly 10 to expand the compression collar and the above-described method has many unique benefits. For example, the expander assembly 10 can repeatedly, uniformly and accurately expand a plurality of compression collars of different sizes to ensure that they will all achieve the desired seal. The expander assembly 10 can be easily adapted to expand a variety of compression collars of different sizes. The expander assembly 10 can be implemented using repeatable verification steps to ensure that the appropriate compression collars are used and that they are expanded correctly. The expander assembly 10 is designed to minimize moving parts, thereby reducing complexity and minimizing costs. In addition, the expander assembly 10 can be designed to facilitate rotation through the use of bearings. Bearings enable the use of low input forces to facilitate rotation and can eliminate the need for external lubrication, which is conducive to operating the expander assembly 10 in a clean room. There are other benefits as well.

[0161] FIG. 35A to FIG. 35F An embodiment of an expansion mechanism 1090 is shown, which may be included in the expander assembly 10 ( Figure 1 ) in an embodiment. For example, the expansion mechanism 1090 can be fixed to Figure 5 The frame 36 and / or housing 12 shown (for example, the expansion mechanism can replace Figure 5 1090 ). However, the expansion mechanism 1090 may be secured and incorporated into any number of various expander assemblies without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0162] like Fig.35A As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include an embodiment of a die set 1092 removably mounted on the expansion mechanism. The combination of the expansion mechanism 1090 and the die set 1092 can be used to selectively expand an embodiment of the compression collar 60A ( Fig.21 ). For example, when the mold assembly 1092 is in the retracted position (such as Fig.35C and Fig.35E As shown), compression collar 60A ( Fig.21 ) can be disposed on the mold set 1092. The expansion mechanism 1090 can be used to radially expand the mold set 1092 to an expanded position (such as Fig.35D and Fig.35F ), which in turn promotes radial expansion of the compression collar 60A (as shown Fig. 22 Any one or more of the components and operations of the expansion mechanism 90 and the mold assembly 92 described above may be included in the reference FIG. 35A to FIG. 35F The expansion mechanism 1090 and the mold assembly 1092 are described in detail and are not repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0163] For example, the mold set 1092 may include a plurality of molds 1096a to 1096f ( Fig.35E), the plurality of molds are separated and discrete from each other and radially spaced about the axis. In one embodiment, each mold 1096 may include an elongated base 1000 extending between a first end 1006 and an opposite second end 1008, such as Fig.35C and Fig.35D A prong 1014 extends upwardly from the first end 1006 of each base 1000. Each prong 1014 may be elongated and include a wedge-shaped cross-section including opposing sides 1016 that converge toward an inner side 1018 and diverge toward an opposing outer side 1020 (e.g., also at Fig.35B 1018 and an opposite outer side 1020. The outer side 1020 may be formed with a curve. In one embodiment, the opposite side 1016 is planar, but not required. The inner side 1018 may include a rounded surface that can conform to and / or slidably engage the outer surface of the tapered expander, which will be described in more detail below.

[0164] like Fig.35E and Fig.35F As shown, the outer side surface 1020 generally has the configuration of a smooth, continuous curve extending between or disposed between the side surfaces 1016. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer side surface 1020 forms an arc. As described above, the outer side surface 1020 is the surface that pushes against the inner surface of the compression collar 60A during radial expansion of the compression collar 60A ( Fig.21 Each of the surfaces 1016, 1018, and 1020 extends upward from the first end 1006 of the base 1000 to the top surface 1021 ( Fig.35E and Fig.35F ), the top surface can be planar.

[0165] like Fig.35C and Fig.35E As shown, when the die set 1092 is in the retracted position, the side 1016 of each die 1096 is adjacent to or directly adjacent to the opposite side 1016 of the adjacent die 1096, so that the prongs 1014 combine to form a die 1026 having a cylindrical configuration and a circular cross-section. The die 1026 has a surrounding outer side 1022 formed by a combination of the outer side surfaces 1020, and terminates at a top end surface 1028 ( Fig.35E ). Outer side 1022( Fig.35E ) also has a cylindrical configuration and a circular cross-section. When in this retracted state ( Fig.35C and Fig.35E ), the die 1026 is configured to receive a compression collar 60A (such as Fig.21 shown).

[0166] like Fig.35C and Fig.35D As shown, the die head 1026 can also be formed with a circumferential inner side 1023 extending around or around the channel 1024, and the circumferential inner side is formed by the combination of the inner side 1018. Fig.35C and Fig.35D As shown, each die 1096 can include a tapered inner side surface 1018, such that the inner side surface 1018 slopes inwardly from the top end surface 1028 toward the elongated base 1000. In addition, each inner side surface 1018 can be rounded, such that a plurality of tapered inner side surfaces 1018 form a conical circumferential inner side surface 1023. The tapered and / or conical circumferential inner side surface 1023 can be flat or include other surface features that can slidably engage an expander to help expand the die 1026. As will be described in more detail below, the size and shape of the tapered and / or conical circumferential inner side surface 1023 can be designed to conform to and / or slidably engage a tapered expander (e.g., a conical expander) that helps expand the die 1026.

[0167] For example, Fig.35A As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include a tapered expander 1200 that may be in a first position (e.g., Fig.35C ) and a second position (e.g., Fig.35D The tapered expander 1200 may include an outer surface 1204 that increases in cross-sectional diameter between the first end and the second end of the tapered expander 1200. In a first position, the tapered expander 1200 may be positioned such that the outer surface 1204 of the tapered expander 1200 does not contact the circumferential inner side surface 1023 and / or does not apply a force against the circumferential inner side surface 1023 that causes movement (e.g., radial expansion) of the die 1026. In a second position, the outer surface 1204 of the tapered expander 1200 may contact the circumferential inner side surface 1023 and may apply a radial force against the circumferential inner side surface 1023, thereby causing the die 1026 to expand (e.g., radial expansion). Fig.35D and Fig.35F ), such as expanding the collar 60 (e.g. Fig. 22 shown).

[0168] When the conical expander 1200 linearly translates between the first position and the second position, the outer surface 1204 of the conical expander 1200 can slidably engage the circumferential inner side surface 1023 and advance along the circumferential inner side surface. For example, the conical expander 1200 can have a conical shape, and therefore the outer surface 1204 can be conical. As the conical expander 1200 translates to the second position, the cross-sectional diameter of the conical expander 1200 in contact with the inner side surface 1023 increases, and the radial force applied against the circumferential inner side surface 1023 increases. For example, once the radial force exceeds an expansion force threshold, the die 1026 can expand radially. In some embodiments, the expansion force threshold can be defined based on a spring or a compressible material that helps to form and bias the die 1026 in a compressed configuration. As Fig.35C and Fig.35D As shown, a compressible material 1030 (e.g., an O-ring, a spring) can be positioned near the second end 1008 of each die 1096 to bias each die 1096 toward the central axis and bias the die head 1026 into a compressed configuration ( Fig.35C and Fig.35E ). Thus, when the conical expander 1200 is linearly translated to the second position, as the cross-sectional diameter of the conical expander 1200 in contact with the inner side surface 1023 increases and the radial force against the circumferential inner side surface 1023 increases, the die head 1026 can be expanded once the radial force becomes greater than the force required to compress the compressible material 1030.

[0169] like FIG. 35B to FIG. 35D As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include an upper plate 1040 and a lower plate 1042 that form a compression collar expander assembly (e.g., Figure 1 For example, one or more fastening elements 1138 (e.g., screws, etc.) can releasably secure the upper plate 1040 to the lower plate 1042, such as Fig.35A and Fig.35B In some embodiments, Fig.35C and Fig.35D As shown, each base 1000 of each mold 1096 can be at least partially captured between the upper plate 1040 and the lower plate 1042. The base 1000 can be allowed to slide and translate between the upper plate 1040 and the lower plate 1042 to allow the die 1026 to form an expanded configuration and a compressed configuration. In some embodiments, the upper plate 1040 and / or the lower plate 1042 may include a flange forming a side wall 1044, such as Fig.35C and Fig.35DAs shown. For example, one or more compressible materials 1030 can be positioned between the sidewall 1044 and the second end 1008 of each die 1096, thereby allowing the compressible material 1030 to be compressed between each die 1096 and the sidewall 1044. In some embodiments, for example, the compressible material 1030 can include an O-ring extending around the die 1026, such as along the outer circumference of the second end 1008 of each die 1096 or along the outer circumference of the base 1000 of each die 1096. When the conical expander 1200 applies a radial force against the circumferential inner side 1023, the radial force is greater than the compressive force of the compressible material 1030 (e.g., the force required to compress the O-ring), the compressible material 1030 can be compressed between the die 1026 and the sidewall 1044. In some embodiments, when the tapered expander 1200 moves to the first position and the radial force decreases, the compressible material 1030 (e.g., O-ring) can be allowed to decompress, thereby radially compressing and / or forcing the die 1026 back to the compressed configuration ( Fig.35C ).

[0170] like Fig.35A As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include mechanical and structural features that may at least facilitate installation of the expansion mechanism 1090 (e.g., such as in Figure 1 10) and / or linearly translate the tapered expander 1200 so that the tapered expander 1200 expands the die head 1026. For example, Fig.35A As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include and / or be coupled to a motor 1100 and a gear head 1102 that facilitate linear translation of the tapered expander 1200. Fig.35A and Fig.35B As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 can include and / or be coupled to a coupling 1104 and a ball screw 1106 that facilitate coupling the tapered expander 1200 to the gear head 1102 and the motor 1100. Thus, activation of the motor 1100 and the gear head 1102 causes the ball screw 1106 to rotate. The ball screw 1106 can engage with a threaded internal passage 1115 ( Fig.35C and Fig.35D ) threaded engagement, and the tapered expander 1200 can be rotationally fixed so that rotation of the ball screw 1106 in a first direction causes the tapered expander 1200 to linearly translate along the longitudinal axis toward a second position and enter a second position (e.g., as Fig.35D ). The rotation of the ball screw 1106 in the second direction can cause the tapered expander 1200 to linearly translate along the longitudinal axis toward the first position and enter the first position (e.g., as shown). Fig.35C shown).

[0171] like Fig.35AAs shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include one or more plates that may facilitate mounting and positioning one or more components of the expansion mechanism 1090. For example, Fig.35A As shown, the expansion mechanism 1090 may include one or more side plates 1120 that may be secured to one or more sides of a motor mounting plate 1122 (e.g., for securing one or both of the gear head 1102 or the motor 1100) and a top plate 1124 (e.g., for securing the mold set 1092). In some embodiments, one or more spacers 1130 and linear guides 1140 ( Fig.35A and Fig.35C ) may be provided on a portion of the tapered expander 1200 (e.g., one or more flanges 1135 (e.g., see Fig.35A and Fig.35C )) and the motor mounting plate 1122 and / or extend between and / or through them. For example, one or more linear guides 1140 can help prevent the tapered expander 1200 from rotating while allowing the tapered expander 1200 to translate linearly along the one or more linear guides 1140. Figures 35A to 35F Other features and functions of the illustrated expansion mechanism 1090 may be understood from the accompanying drawings and based on the disclosure herein.

[0172] The present disclosure may be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments should be considered as illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is represented by the appended claims rather than by the above description. All changes within the meaning and equivalent range of the claims will be included in their scope.

Claims

1. A compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the compression collar expander assembly comprising: a guide plate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, wherein a plurality of lower guide channels extend through the guide plate; a mandrel plate disposed adjacent the bottom surface of the guide plate, the mandrel plate being rotatable relative to the guide plate and having a top surface having an expansion channel formed thereon; a plurality of brackets movably disposed on the top surface of the guide plate, the plurality of brackets comprising at least three brackets, the plurality of brackets being radially spaced about an axis extending through the guide plate and radially aligned with the axis, each of the plurality of brackets comprising: the subject; and a guide member protruding from the main body, passing through a corresponding one of the lower guide channels formed on the guide plate, and entering the expansion channel; and A mold set includes a plurality of molds, each mold including a base coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of brackets and a prong standing upright from the base.

2. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein the expansion passage has a helical configuration about the axis.

3. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein each prong has a wedge-shaped configuration with opposing sides extending between an inner side and an opposing outer side, the outer side forming a curvature.

4. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 3, wherein the curvature of the outer side surface is an arc of a circle.

5. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 3, wherein the opposing sides converge toward the inner side and diverge toward the outer side.

6. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of dies comprises at least 3, at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 separate dies.

7. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of dies are separate from one another, radially spaced about the axis, and radially aligned with the axis.

8. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, further comprising: Each of the plurality of brackets has a mounting hole formed thereon or a mounting post protruding therefrom; and Each of the plurality of dies has the other of the mounting hole or mounting post formed thereon, each mounting post being received by a corresponding mounting hole to couple each die to a corresponding bracket.

9. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein each bracket includes a plurality of travel wheels rotatably mounted to the body and resting on the top surface of the guide plate.

10. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein the guide member comprises: a protrusion extending from the body and into a corresponding lower guide channel; and A lower guide wheel is rotatably mounted to the projection and is at least partially disposed within the expansion channel.

11. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1 , wherein the guide member comprises: a shaft protruding from said body; and A lower guide wheel is rotatably mounted to the shaft and is at least partially disposed within the expansion channel.

12. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of brackets comprises at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 individual brackets.

13. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, further comprising a cover plate secured to the guide plate such that the plurality of brackets are disposed between the guide plate and the cover plate.

14. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 13, further comprising: The cover plate has a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, wherein a plurality of upper guide channels are formed on the bottom surface; and Each bracket has an upper guide wheel rotatably mounted to the body and disposed within a corresponding one of the plurality of upper guide channels.

15. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, further comprising a motor coupled to the mandrel plate, the motor being configured to rotate the mandrel plate in opposite directions.

16. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 15, wherein the motor is a servo motor.

17. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 1, wherein rotation of the mandrel plates in opposite directions causes each of the plurality of brackets to move between an extended position in which each of the plurality of brackets moves radially outward away from the axis and a retracted position in which each of the plurality of brackets moves radially inward toward the axis.

18. A compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the compression collar expander assembly comprising: a housing defining a compartment; An expansion mechanism, the expansion mechanism is arranged in the compartment of the housing, and the expansion mechanism comprises: a guide plate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; and a plurality of brackets disposed on the top surface of the guide plate, the plurality of brackets comprising at least three brackets, the plurality of brackets being radially spaced about and radially aligned with an axis extending through the guide plate, each of the plurality of brackets being movable between an extended position in which each of the plurality of brackets moves radially outwardly away from the axis and a retracted position in which each of the plurality of brackets moves radially inwardly toward the axis; and A mold set includes a plurality of molds, each mold including a base coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of brackets and a prong standing upright from the base.

19. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 18, further comprising a housing having an access opening formed therein communicating with the compartment, the die set being removable from the compartment of the housing through the access opening.

20. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, further comprising a cover movable between a first position wherein the cover blocks the access opening and a second position wherein the access opening is unblocked.

21. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, wherein the housing includes a front panel, a rear panel, and opposing side panels, the panels each extending to a top panel, the access opening extending through the top panel.

22. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, wherein the entry opening is circular and has a maximum diameter of less than 22 centimeters, 18 centimeters, or 14 centimeters.

23. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 18, further comprising: a collecting opening formed on the housing; a collection box removably disposed within the compartment of the housing; and A collecting tube is aligned between the collecting opening and the collecting box so that when a defective compression collar passes through the collecting opening, the compression collar will move down the collecting tube and be deposited into the collecting box.

24. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 23, further comprising a sensor disposed within the housing, the sensor configured to detect when the defective compression collar passes downwardly through the collection tube.

25. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, further comprising: The guide plate has a plurality of lower guide channels extending therethrough; and A mandrel plate is disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the guide plate, the mandrel plate being rotatable relative to the guide plate and having a top surface having an expansion channel formed thereon.

26. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 25, wherein the expansion passage has a helical configuration.

27. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 25, wherein each bracket comprises a body and a guide member protruding from the body, the guide member passing through a corresponding one of the lower guide channels formed on the guide plate and entering the expansion channel.

28. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 25, further comprising a motor coupled to the mandrel plate, the motor being configured to rotate the mandrel plate in opposite directions.

29. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, wherein each prong has a wedge-shaped configuration with opposing sides extending between an inner side and an opposing outer side, the outer side forming a curvature.

30. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, wherein each bracket includes a body and a plurality of travel wheels rotatably mounted to the body and resting on the top surface of the guide plate.

31. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 19, wherein the plurality of brackets comprises at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 individual brackets.

32. A compression collar expander system for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the compression collar expander system comprising: A compression collar expander assembly, the compression collar expander assembly comprising: a housing defining a compartment; An expansion mechanism, the expansion mechanism is arranged in the compartment of the housing, and the expansion mechanism comprises: a guide plate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; and a plurality of brackets disposed on the top surface of the guide plate, the plurality of brackets comprising at least three brackets, the plurality of brackets being radially spaced about and radially aligned with an axis extending through the guide plate, each of the plurality of brackets being movable between an extended position in which each of the plurality of brackets moves radially outwardly away from the axis and a retracted position in which each of the plurality of brackets moves radially inwardly toward the axis; and A plurality of separate mold sets, each having a different configuration and each configured to be removably coupled to the expansion mechanism, each mold set comprising a plurality of molds, each mold comprising a base configured to be coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of brackets and a prong upright from the base.

33. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, wherein the prongs for any one of the plurality of die sets each have an identical configuration.

34. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, wherein the prongs for any one of the plurality of die sets have a different configuration than the prongs of any of the other die sets.

35. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, wherein each prong has a wedge-shaped configuration with opposing sides extending between an inner side and an opposing outer side, the outer side forming a curvature.

36. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, wherein the plurality of dies of each die set comprises at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 individual dies.

37. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, further comprising: Each of the plurality of brackets has a mounting hole formed thereon or a mounting post protruding therefrom; as well as Each of the plurality of dies has the other of the mounting holes or mounting posts formed thereon, with each mounting post being received by a corresponding mounting hole to couple each die to a corresponding bracket.

38. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, wherein each of the plurality of die sets is sized to pass through an access opening formed in the housing for coupling with the expansion mechanism.

39. The compression collar expander system of claim 38, further comprising a cover movable between a first position wherein the cover blocks the access opening and a second position wherein the access opening is unblocked.

40. The compression collar expander system of claim 32, further comprising: The guide plate has a plurality of lower guide channels extending therethrough; as well as A mandrel plate is disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the guide plate, the mandrel plate being rotatable relative to the guide plate and having a top surface having an expansion channel formed thereon.

41. The compression collar expander system of claim 40, wherein each bracket comprises a body and a guide member protruding from the body, the guide member passing through a corresponding one of the lower guide channels formed on the guide plate and entering the expansion channel.

42. A die set for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the die set comprising a plurality of dies, each die comprising: an elongated base having a top surface extending between a first end and an opposite second end and an opposite bottom surface; a cusp upstanding from the top surface of the base at the first end, the cusp having a wedge-shaped configuration with opposing sides extending between an inner side and an opposing outer side, the outer side forming a curve; and A leg protrudes downward from the bottom surface of the base, the leg having an inner side and an opposite outer side.

43. The mold set of claim 42, wherein at least a portion of the outer side of the leg is planar.

44. The mold set of claim 42, wherein the inner side of the leg is offset from the inner side of the prong.

45. The mold set of claim 42, further comprising a mounting hole extending through the base between the top surface and the opposing bottom surface.

46. ​​The mold set of claim 45, further comprising a placement hole extending through the base between the top surface and the opposing bottom surface and spaced apart from the mounting hole.

47. The mold set of claim 42, wherein the curvature of the outer side of the tip is an arc.

48. The mold set of claim 42, wherein the opposing sides of the tip converge toward the inner side and diverge toward the outer side.

49. The mold set of claim 42, wherein the plurality of molds comprises at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 individual molds.

50. The die set of claim 42, wherein each of the plurality of dies are separated from one another, radially spaced about an axis, and radially aligned with the axis.

51. A method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the method comprising: positioning the tubular compression collar on a die of a die set such that the compression collar surrounds the die, the die including a plurality of individual prongs radially spaced about an axis; as well as A plurality of brackets radially spaced apart about the axis are radially displaced so that the plurality of brackets move radially outward away from the axis, each of the plurality of brackets being coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of prongs, the radial displacement of the plurality of brackets causing radial displacement of each of the plurality of prongs, which in turn causes the tubular compression collar surrounding the die to expand radially outward.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein radially displacing the plurality of brackets comprises rotating a spindle plate about a rotational axis, the spindle plate having a top surface with an expansion channel formed thereon, the rotation of the spindle plate causing the plurality of brackets to be displaced radially outwardly away from the axis.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein rotating the mandrel plate comprises activating a motor coupled to the mandrel plate, the motor configured to rotate the mandrel plate.

54. The method of claim 51 , wherein each carriage comprises a body to which a plurality of travel wheels are rotatably mounted.

55. The method of claim 51, wherein the plurality of brackets comprises at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 individual brackets.

56. A method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the method comprising: Selecting a die set from a plurality of die sets, each of the plurality of die sets having a different configuration, each of the plurality of die sets comprising a plurality of mutually separated dies, each of the plurality of dies comprising a base and a pointed head standing upright from the base, the pointed heads being combined together to form a die head; coupling the selected die set to an expansion mechanism disposed within a compartment of the housing; assembling a tubular compression collar over the die of the selected die set coupled to the expansion mechanism such that the tubular compression collar surrounds the die; and The expansion mechanism is activated so that the expansion mechanism causes the selected die to expand the tubular compression collar radially outward.

57. The method of claim 56, further comprising: moving the cover so as not to block an access opening formed in the housing, the access opening being in communication with the compartment of the housing; as well as Passing the selected die set through the unobstructed access opening of the housing for coupling the selected die set to the expansion mechanism.

58. The method of claim 57, further comprising moving the cover back to block the access opening before activating the expansion mechanism.

59. The method of claim 56, wherein the plurality of mold sets comprises at least 3, at least 5, at least 7, at least 9, at least 11, or at least 13 mold sets, each of the mold sets having a different configuration.

60. A method for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the method comprising: positioning an annular first calibration ring about a plurality of prongs forming part of a die set disposed on a compression collar expander assembly; The compression collar expander assembly is activated to displace the plurality of prongs radially outwardly, thereby biasing the inner surface of the first calibration ring, the compression collar expander performing the following: measuring a force applied by the plurality of prongs to the first calibration ring; as well as determining whether the measured force is within a predetermined tolerance of a first predetermined force; removing the first calibration ring from around the plurality of prongs; installing a tubular compression collar about the plurality of prongs; as well as Actuating the compression collar expander assembly displaces the plurality of prongs radially outwardly away from the common axis, the prongs expanding the tubular compression collar radially outwardly.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein the first calibration ring is composed of metal.

62. The method of claim 60, wherein the first calibration ring is not extended radially outward by the plurality of prongs.

63. A compression collar expander assembly for expanding a tubular compression collar for coupling a pipe to a pipe fitting, the compression collar expander assembly comprising: a tapered expander including an outer surface having an increasing cross-sectional diameter between a first end and a second end of the tapered expander; and A mold set includes a plurality of molds, each mold includes a base and a pointed tip upright from the base, each mold also includes a tapered inner side surface extending along the pointed tip, and the tapered inner side surface is slidably matched with the outer surface of the tapered expander.

64. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 63, wherein the tapered expander comprises a conical shape.

65. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 63, further comprising a compressible material positioned along an outer circumference of the base of each die of the die set, the compressible material biasing the die set into a compressed configuration.

66. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 65, wherein when the tapered expander is in the first position, the compressible material decompresses and forces the mold to assume the compressed configuration.

67. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 66, wherein the compressible material is compressible to allow the die set to form an expanded configuration when the tapered expander is in the second position.

68. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 63, wherein each prong has a wedge-shaped configuration with opposing sides extending between the inner side and an opposing outer side, the outer side forming a curvature.

69. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 68, wherein the curvature of the outer side surface is an arc.

70. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 68, wherein the opposing sides converge toward the medial side and diverge toward the lateral side.

71. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 63, wherein said inner side is rounded to conform to said outer surface of said tapered expander.

72. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 67, further comprising a motor coupled to the tapered expander, the motor configured to linearly translate the tapered expander along the longitudinal axis between the first position and the second position.

73. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 72, wherein linear translation of the tapered expander into the second position causes the tapered expander to apply an increased radial force to the inner side surface, thereby causing the die set to expand radially.

74. The compression collar expander assembly of claim 73, wherein linear translation of the tapered expander into the first position causes the tapered expander to apply a reduced radial force to the inner side, thereby causing the die set to radially retract.

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