An un-grooved restrained joint pipe system with visibility gap to view the restraining member

Abstract

A pipe system consists of a pipe (10) with a flared portion (16) extending inwardly from a radial retention wall (14) to the spigot end (12) The flared portion (16) features a mating surface (17) larger than the pipe's (10) outer surface (15). The receptacle body (40) has a reception end (42) from where a clear bore (43) extends into a key groove (48), followed by a containing bore (56) to contain the flared portion (16). A locking device (80) accommodates inside the key groove (48) sandwiching between the pipe's retention wall (14) and the receptacle's retention wall (51) in a coupled state. The derived visibility gap (45) permits viewing of the pipe retention wall (14) from the reception end (42) while the pipe (10) is inserted until the system is uncoupled and subsequently gives a view of the locking device (80) when the system is coupled, ensuring secure connection.

Description

[0001] AN UN-GROOVED RESTRAINED JOINT PIPE SYSTEM WITH VISIBILITY GAP TO VIEW THE RESTRAINING MEMBER

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present subject matter described herein, in general, relates to a specialized component of a pipe system that is used in the context of fluid mechanics or piping technology. Specifically, it outlines the design and function of a coupling mechanism between two pipe segments, which includes geometries, locking aspects, and visibility features involved in their connection.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced in prior art.

[0006] For a long duration, the art has been aware of joining pipes by employing restraining devices, enabling quick and easy assembly by inserting the grooved end of one conduit (the male member) into the opening of another conduit (the female member). Such restrained joint pipe systems are commonly used in irrigation, mining, and borewells in developed countries, where pipes typically have thicker walls due to a higher safety factor affordable by users. The increased wall thickness is necessary to create a groove of sufficient depth in the male conduit. However, this necessity for thicker walls poses a limitation in India, where increasing wall thickness solely to derive a restraining groove is not economically practical.

[0007] Moreover, cutting a groove into the pipe reduces its ability to withstand internal pressures and axial tensile forces, because the pipe wall is thinner at the groove. This weakness is particularly problematic when the system is installed vertically for extended lengths, as in borewell water risers, where the grooved joints can crack and separate under pressure. Additionally, grooving polymer pipes, such as those made from polyethylene or polypropylene, is particularly challenging because the pipe tends to wobble on a lathe, complicating the grooving process.

[0008] A significant drawback of existing restrain joint pipe systems is the inability to verify the engagement of the restraining member inside the receiving pipe once the male pipe is inserted. When employing a snap acting restrainer, this poses a considerable risk of incomplete assembly, where the male pipe may not be inserted deeply enough for restrainer to snap and engage properly, or the restrainer might fail to snap due to obstruction or damage, without any visual confirmation for the user. When employing a spline restrainer, a user may mistakenly insert a shorter spline which may engage with only a portion of the retention wall, resultantly the joint doesn’t realize its fuller potential. When employing an interlocking-ends split ring restrainer, the restrainer in a locked state may achieve a diameter not radially covering the whole retention wall thereby resulting in a weaker than realizable joint strength.

[0009] Also, during dis-assembly of the restrained pipe system, the restraining members often fail to un-couple and get jammed in the key groove due to sand and dust clogging.

[0010] Given these limitations, threaded joint systems are currently more popular in india than restrained joint systems, even though they require more time for installation, removal, and reinstallation. However, threaded joints are susceptible to decoupling if the fluid flow creates rotational thrust inside the water pump, causing the threaded pipes to unscrew. While various attempts have been made to include wire-locks or other mechanisms to counteract this thrust, these solutions have often been commercially expensive.

[0011] Therefore, there is a clear need for a new restrained joint conduit system that not only improves the strength realized from the male conduit elements but also allows users to visually confirm the engagement of the restraining device, ensuring the integrity of the joint and preventing failures.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] The following presents a simplified summary of the subject matter in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of subject matter embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of the subject matter. It is not intended to identify key / critical elements of the embodiments or to delineate the scope of the subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the subject matter in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0014] A pipe system comprises a pipe with an axis, a spigot end, an outer surface, a smooth bore, and a flared portion extending axially inward from the spigot end to a radial pipe retention wall. The flared portion includes a mating surface positioned adjacent to the pipe retention wall and has a diameter greater than that of the outer surface. A receptacle body with an axis and a reception end is also part of the system. The system features a clear bore that extends inward from the reception end up to a key groove, situated between a receptacle retention wall toward the clear bore and an opposite sidewall. Additionally, there is a containing bore extending axially from the opposite sidewall into the interior of the receptacle body to accommodate the flared portion both axially and radially. A visibility gap in the inner periphery of the clear bore is formed when the pipe retention wall enters the clear bore during insertion of the pipe. This visibility gap provides a view of the pipe retention wall from the reception end until the assembly is in an uncoupled state. Furthermore, a locking device located in the key groove, comprising a leading edge toward the receptacle retention wall and an oppositely disposed trailing edge, is positioned to be sandwiched between the pipe retention wall and the receptacle retention wall to couple the assembly. The visibility gap also provides a view of the locking device when the system is coupled. In an embodiment, the clear bore includes a chamfer at the reception end to enhance visibility. The locking device is a split ring with interlocking ends, designed to be pre-positioned in the key groove before inserting the pipe into the receptacle body. This split ring features a locking profile at one end and a complementary locking profile at the other end. When placed in the key groove in a relaxed state, the inner edge of the split ring has a diameter equal to or greater than that of the mating surface of the pipe. Upon interlocking the locking profile and complementary locking profile, the inner edge contracts to a diameter smaller than that of the mating surface.

[0015] In one embodiment, the locking device is a flexible spline made from resilient and flexible plastic materials, such as nylon. This spline-type locking device is inserted into the key groove opening after the complete insertion of the pipe's flared portion into the containing bore of the receptacle body. Another embodiment of the pipe system includes a snap-acting locking device that is pre-positioned in the key groove before inserting the pipe. In the uncoupled assembly of the pipe system, the inner diameter of the snap-acting locking device's trailing edge is smaller than that of the pipe's mating surface. As the pipe is inserted, the locking device gradually expands, allowing the flared portion to enter the containing bore. Once the flared portion is fully inside the containing bore, the locking device contracts, securing the flared portion within and locking the assembly. Additionally, in one embodiment, the locking device is a snap-acting split ring with an inner edge aligned linearly with the axis of the receptacle body.

[0016] In one embodiment, the split ring locking device features a chamfer on its leading edge, positioned towards the reception end within the inner periphery. This design enhances functionality during assembly. Another embodiment of the split ring locking device involves an incomplete circumference with radial extensions at its ends. These extensions protrude outward from an opening in the receptacle body's key groove. When these radial extensions are separated, the split ring expands, allowing its inner edge to exceed the diameter of the pipe's mating surface. Additionally, in another embodiment, the split ring locking device's ends overlap circumferentially and include radial extensions protruding from the key groove opening. By squeezing these radial extensions together, the locking device expands, enabling its inner edge to reach a diameter larger than that of the pipe's mating surface.

[0017] In one embodiment, the snap-acting locking device features a rhomboidal crosssection. The inner and outer edges taper inward towards the trailing edge, creating a frusto-conical configuration for the portion of the locking ring inside the key groove. Another embodiment involves a snap-acting split ring that fits entirely within the key groove. The leading edge has a maximum radial size equal to or greater than the diameter of the key groove. This ensures that when placed in the key groove, the outer rim of the leading edge contacts the base of the key groove, forming a corresponding circular shape.

[0018] In one embodiment, the split ring locking device includes a catch member extending on the outer periphery of the leading edge. The receptacle body's key groove is designed with a deep section adjacent to the receptacle retention wall to capture the catch member. This design limits axial movement of the locking device and triggers immediate expansion upon being pushed by the spigot end during pipe insertion into the receptacle body. Another embodiment features a snap-acting locking device consisting of an arcuate band. The outer diameter of the leading edge matches or exceeds that of the key groove. Thus, when the locking ring device is placed within the key groove, the outer rim of the leading edge contacts the base of the key groove, forming a corresponding circular shape. Additionally, in one embodiment of the pipe system, there is a tubular push key with a bore, an insertion end, an oppositely disposed gripping end, and a raised surface extending axially from the insertion end on the outer surface of the push key. The bore is mountable on the outer surface of the pipe, and the raised surface has a diameter equal to or greater than that of the pipe's mating surface. After inserting the push key into the visibility gap of a coupled assembly from its insertion end, the locking device expands within the key groove, causing the system to decouple.

[0019] In one embodiment, the flared portion of the pipe includes a limiting shoulder that tapers inwardly from the mating surface to a second mating surface. Correspondingly, the containing bore of the receptacle body features a co-mating surface and a second co-mating surface. These are designed to accommodate the mating surface and the second mating surface of the pipe, respectively, separated by a co-limiting shoulder. The insertion of the pipe into the receptacle body is restricted by the contact between the limiting shoulder of the pipe and the colimiting shoulder of the receptacle body. Another embodiment includes a containing bore that incorporates a pressure-activated gasket housed within a pressure gasket groove positioned deeper within the receptacle body after the second co-mating surface. Axially following this is an expanded surface with a diameter larger than the second mating surface of the pipe. This arrangement facilitates a fluid channel to operate the pressure-activated gasket when the assembly is locked. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the co-limiting shoulder is tapered towards the axis of the receptacle body.

[0020] In one embodiment, the pipe system includes a seal groove that houses a compressible sealing ring positioned on the second mating surface of the pipe. When the assembly is coupled, the sealing ring remains compressed against the second co-mating surface, effectively sealing the fluid between the pipe and the receptacle body. Additionally, in another embodiment, the pipe system features one or more thrust ribs extending axially from the interior of the containing bore towards the reception end. The pipe is equipped with a thrust slot corresponding to each rib. As the pipe is inserted into the receptacle body, each thrust rib fits into its respective thrust slot. This arrangement ensures proper alignment and a secure connection between the pipe and the receptacle body. In one embodiment, a seal groove containing a sealing ring is positioned on the second mating surface of the pipe. A co-limiting shoulder within the containing bore engages with the sealing ring after each thrust rib is located inside its respective thrust slot. This arrangement ensures proper sealing in the coupled assembly. Another embodiment of the pipe system includes a seal groove situated in the containing bore of the receptacle body. This groove houses a compressible sealing ring that, in a coupled assembly, remains compressed against the flared portion of the pipe to create a fluid seal. In another embodiment, the pipe system features a non-engagement surface extending axially from the spigot end of the pipe. This surface has a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of a sealing ring located in a seal groove within the containing bore of the receptacle body. Following the non-engagement surface is a tapered seal engagement shoulder. The length of the non-engagement surface is designed so that the seal engagement shoulder engages with the sealing ring after each thrust rib is positioned inside its respective thrust slot during the insertion of the pipe.

[0021] In one embodiment, the flared portion of the pipe is formed by attaching a flaring device to the pipe end. The flaring device is a tubular body that includes a spigot end, an oppositely disposed joining end, and a flared portion extending from the spigot end to a pipe retention wall. A bore extends axially inward from the joining end of the flaring device to attach with the outer surface of the pipe. In another embodiment, the pipe retention wall is positioned at the joining end of the flaring device. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the pipe retention wall and the joining end are separated by an extended surface. In another aspect of the pipe system, the flaring device and the outer surface of the pipe are both made from a polyolefin material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. This material compatibility facilitates heat fusion between the bore of the flaring device and the outer surface of the pipe. Additionally, in another embodiment, the polyolefin material used for the flaring device may be reinforced with additives such as glass fiber or carbon fiber. These reinforcements help prevent decoupling caused by deformation of the pipe retention wall due to cold flow. In one embodiment, the pipe and the flaring device are manufactured separately, and then the bore and outer surface are heat fused together to form a secure connection. In another embodiment, the flaring device is over-molded onto the outer surface adjacent to the pipe end, creating a seamless integration. In another scenario, the pipe and the flaring device are both made from PVC (Polyvinyl chloride), and the bore and outer surface are solvent welded together for a strong bond. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the pipe and the flaring device can be made from rigid materials such as metal or PVC, and the bore and outer surface are threadedly attached to each other for assembly. In another aspect, in one embodiment, at least a portion of the locking device that is visible from the visibility gap is colored differently from the surfaces of other system components visible within the visibility gap. This color contrast helps in identifying and distinguishing the locking device during assembly and maintenance operations.

[0022] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0023] The foregoing and further objects, features, and advantages of the present subject matter will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein numerals are used to represent like elements.

[0024] It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter, and are, therefore, not to be considered for limiting of its scope, for the subject matter may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a top, cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the pipe system at the onset of insertion of the pipe 10 from its spigot end 12 inside the clear bore 43 of the receptacle body 40.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a top, cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1 in an intermediate stage of insertion of the pipe 10 inside the receptacle body 40. FIG. 3 illustrates a top, cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1 in a locked state with the visibility gap 45.

[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates a sectioned isometric view of the assembly of Fig. 3.

[0028] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the locking ring device 80 of the embodiment of Fig. 1

[0029] FIG. 5a illustrates an axial end view of the assembly of Fig. 3 sectioned at the key groove 48 showing the locking ring device 80 in an expanded state.

[0030] FIG. 5b illustrates an axial end view of the assembly of Fig. 4 sectioned at the key groove 48 showing the locking ring device 80 in a locked state.

[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates a top, cross-sectional side view of an embodiment at the onset of insertion of the pipe 10A inside the receptacle body 40 A.

[0032] FIG. 7 illustrates a top, cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 6 in a locked state showing a push key 70A mounted on the pipe 10A ready for insertion in the visibility gap 45A.

[0033] FIG. 8 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 6 showing the locking ring device 80A expanded by insertion of the push key 70A inside the visibility gap 45A.

[0034] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the push key 70A of the embodiment of Fig. 7.

[0035] FIG. 9a illustrates a perspective view of the push key 70A of the embodiment of Fig. 7 expanded by enlarging the gap in the discontinuity 76A for side mounting on the pipe 10 A. FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a locking ring device 8 OB.

[0036] FIG. 10a illustrates an axial end view sectioned at the key groove 48B of the embodiment of the pipe system containing the locking ring device 80B of Fig. 10 in a locked state.

[0037] FIG. 10b illustrates an axial end view of the embodiment of Fig. 10a sectioned at the key groove 48B showing the locking ring device 80B in an expanded state achieved by pushing apart radial extensions 87B and 89B.

[0038] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a locking ring device 80C.

[0039] FIG. Ila illustrates an axial end view sectioned at the key groove 48C of the embodiment of the pipe system containing the locking ring device 80C of Fig. 11 in a locked state.

[0040] FIG. 11b illustrates an axial end view of the embodiment of Fig. I la sectioned at the key groove 48C showing the locking ring device 80C in an expanded state achieved by squeezing together radial extensions 87C and 89C.

[0041] FIG. 12 illustrates a top, sectional side view of an embodiment of pipe 10C where a flaring device 30C is threadingly affixed on the pipe 10C.

[0042] FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the pipe system with various conduit bodies like bends, tees, and adapters.

[0043] FIG. 14 illustrates a top, sectional side view of and embodiment of pipe system in locked state where the Flaring device 30D comprises an extended surface 34D for more reliable attachment and a push key 70D located outside the visibility gap 45D. FIG. 15 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 14 showing the locking ring device 80D expanded by insertion of the push key 70D inside the visibility gap 45D.

[0044] FIGS. 16 and 16a illustrate a top, sectional side view of an embodiment of the pipe system with a rhomboidal cross-section locking ring device 80E installed inside key groove 48E.

[0045] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of the rhomboidal locking ring device 80E of Fig. 16 before its placement inside the key groove 48E.

[0046] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of the receptacle body 40E of the assembly of Fig. 16 sectioned at the key groove 48E with an opening 53E for insertion of locking ring device 80E.

[0047] FIG. 19 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 16 showing insertion of spigot end 12E causing expansion of the locking ring 80E.

[0048] FIG. 20 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 16 showing the complete expansion of he locking device 80E within the key groove 48E.

[0049] FIG. 21 illustrates a top, sectional view of the embodiment of Fig. 16in a locked state.

[0050] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of the assembly of Fig. 21 showing the locking ring device 80E with an end 88E protruding outside for its withdrawal.

[0051] FIG. 23 illustrates a top, sectional side view of an embodiment of Fig. 21 showing the push key 70E expanding locking ring 80E to facilitate pipe withdrawal. FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view an alternate embodiment of a rhomboidal locking ring device 80F with a flattened portion 92F interrupting between its overall curved structure.

[0052] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view sectioned at the key groove 48F of an embodiment of the pipe system with the locking ring device 80F of Fig. 24 located inside the key groove 48F.

[0053] FIGS. 26 and 26a illustrates a top, sectional side view of an embodiment of the pipe system comprising a deep groove 55G in the key groove 48G to contain a catch member 91G on the locking ring device 80G.

[0054] FIG. 27 and 27a illustrate a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 26 wherein the spigot end 12G pushes the inner edge 83 G of the frusto-conical locking ring 80G to start expanding the locking ring device 80G.

[0055] FIG. 28 illustrates a sectional view of the key groove 48G of the embodiment of Fig. 26 showing the fully expanded locking ring device 80G and the mating surface 17G enters the containing bore 57G.

[0056] FIG. 29 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 26 in a locked state.

[0057] FIG. 30 illustrates a top, sectional side view of an embodiment of the pipe system at the onset of insertion of the pipe 10H comprising a limiting surface 18H inside the receptacle body 40H comprising a co-limiting surface 58H.

[0058] FIG. 31 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 30 wherein the inner edge 83H of the locking ring 80H attains a larger radial size to climb on the second mating surface 19H. FIGS. 32 and 32a illustrate a top, sectional side view of the pipe system of Fig. 30 wherein the inner edge 83H of the locking ring 80H expands further over the sealing ring 24H.

[0059] FIG. 33 illustrates a top, sectional side view of the pipe system of Fig. 30 wherein the locking ring 80H achieves maximum expansion for insertion of the mating surface 17H inside the containing portion 56H of the receptacle body 40H.

[0060] FIG. 34 illustrates a sectional view of the pipe system of Fig. 30 in a locked / assembled / operative state.

[0061] FIG. 35 illustrate a top, sectional side view of an embodiment of the pipe system with a sealing ring 611 on the second co-mating surface 591, and a locking ring 801 featuring a chamfer 851 for smoother interaction with the sealing ring 241 and the limiting shoulder 181 during insertion.

[0062] FIGS. 36-37 show a top sectional side view of an embodiment of the pipe system comprising a rhomboidal locking ring 80J wherein the tapered inner edge 83J enables smooth engagement with the sealing ring 24J and the limiting shoulder 18J on the pipe 10 J.

[0063] FIG. 38 illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of a receptacle body 40K of an embodiment where the receptacle body 40K includes thrust ribs 66K extending in the containing bore 56K towards the reception end 42K.

[0064] FIGS. 39 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the pipe 10K suitable for the embodiment of the receptacle body 40K of Fig. 38 showing the spigot end 12K of the pipe 10K featuring a thrust slot 26K for each thrust rib 66K.

[0065] FIG. 40 provides a sectional sideview of the embodiment of pipe 10K of Fig. 39. FIG. 41 illustrates a sectional view of an embodiment formed by bodies illustrated in Figs. 38-40 showing each thrust rib 66K interlocked with its corresponding thrust slot 26K before engagement of sealing ring 6 IK with the engagement shoulder 20K during insertion of pipe 10K in the receptacle body 40K.

[0066] FIG. 42 illustrates a sectional view of the embodiment of Fig. 41 in a locked state.

[0067] FIG. 43 illustrates an embodiment in locked state where a flaring device 30L containing thrust slots 26L is attached on the pipe 10L.

[0068] FIG. 44 illustrates a sectional sideview of the receptacle body 40M of an embodiment where the receptacle body 40M contains thrust slots 66M and colimiting surface 58M.

[0069] FIG. 45 illustrates a sectional sideview of the pipe 10M suitable for the receptacle body 40M of the embodiment of Fig. 44.

[0070] FIG. 46 and 46a illustrate a sectional sideview of the embodiment formed by bodies illustrated in Figs. 44-45 in an intermediate stage of insertion of pipe 10M in the receptacle body 40M where each thrust rib 66K gets interlocked with its corresponding thrust slot 26M before engagement of sealing ring 24M with the colimiting shoulder 58M.

[0071] FIG. 47 illustrates cross-sectional side view of the embodiment of Fig. 46 with all components in a locked state.

[0072] FIG. 48 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the split ring locking device 80N with interlocking ends, including locking profiles 93N and 94N, and radial extensions 87N and 89N. FIG. 49 illustrates an axial end view of an embodiment in an intermediate stage of insertion of a pipe ION in a receptacle body 40N, sectioned at the key groove 48N with a pre-positioned locking device 80N of Fig. 48 during an.

[0073] FIG. 50 illustrates an axial end view of the embodiment of Fig. 49 in a locked state sectioned at the key groove 48N.

[0074] FIG. 51 illustrates a perspective view of the assembly of Fig. 50 highlighting the visibility gap 45N, showing how the locking device 80N appears when properly engaged and coupled.

[0075] FIG. 52 illustrates an embodiment of a locking device 80P constructed as a spline band with a resilient plastic composition..

[0076] FIG. 53 illustrates an embodiment sectioned at the key groove 48P where the spline-type locking device 80P of Fig. 52 is inserted into the key groove 48P after the flared portion 16P of the pipe 10P is positioned within the containing bore 52P of the receptacle body 40P.

[0077] FIG. 54 illustrates a top, cross-sectional side view illustrating the spline-type locking device 80P positioned in the key groove 48P, serving as a barrier against pipe 10P withdrawal.

[0078] FIG. 55 illustrates the visibility gap 45P in a perspective view of the assembly of Fig. 54, providing a clear view of the spline-type locking device 80P to ensure proper assembly and prevent inadvertent locking errors. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] The following presents a detailed description of various embodiments of the present subject matter with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0080] The embodiments of the present subject matter are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present subject matter is not limited to these embodiments which are only provided to explain more clearly the present subject matter to a person skilled in the art of the present disclosure. In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

[0081] The specification may refer to “an”, “one”, “different” or “some” embodiment(s) in several locations. This does not necessarily imply that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0082] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including” and / or “comprising” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “attached” or “connected” or “coupled” or “mounted” to another element, it can be directly attached or connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations and arrangements of one or more of the associated listed items. The figures depict a simplified structure only showing some elements and functional entities, all being logical units whose implementation may differ from what is shown.

[0083] The figures depict a simplified structure only showing some elements and functional entities, all being logical units whose implementation may differ from what is shown.

[0084] The embodiments of the currently disclosed pipe system include conduit bodies of various shapes, like straight, L-shaped, T-shaped or Y-shaped and can have multiple inlet outlet points, ends of which are joined in a male-female fashion.

[0085] While joining two conduit bodies together, the body providing a male joining end, referred to as the pipe 10, (FIGS. 1-5), has a centre axis 11, a spigot end 12, a smooth bore 25 and an outer surface 15 of substantially constant diameter. A flared portion 16 axially extends from the spigot end 12 to a radial pipe retention wall 14. This flared portion 16 can comprise a mating surface 17 positioned adjacent to the pipe retention wall 14 linearly extending therefrom towards the spigot end 12 having a diameter more than that of the outer surface 15.

[0086] The flared portion 16 can be produced monolithically (a single, seamless piece as shown in FIG. 1) during injection moulding of the pipe 10. In other embodiments, a flared portion 16A can be comprised on pipe 10A by attaching a flaring device 30A at an end 13A of the pipe 10A by various methods (FIG. 6,12) at the factory. This ensures that the flaring device 30A is an integral component of pipe 10A when it is delivered to the user for field assembly.

[0087] The current system also comprises a receptacle body 40 (FIG. 1-4), a conduit body of the pipe system providing the female end as noted before, having a centre axis 41, a reception end 42 at the axial end and a clear bore 43 extending from the reception end 42 and up to a key groove 48. The key groove 48 can confine between a receptacle retention wall 51 towards the clear bore 43 and an opposite sidewall 52. The receptacle body 40 comprises a containing bore 56, extending further axially inside the receptacle body 40 from the key groove 48 for a length at least equal to the length of the flared portion 16 of the pipe 10, such that the flared portion 16 of the pipe 10 can fit entirely inside the containing bore 56 of the receptacle body 40.

[0088] The containing bore 56 contains a co-mating surface 57, whose diameter is only marginally greater than that of the mating surface 17. This design allows the flared portion 16 to fit snugly inside the containing bore 56, (FIG. 3) thereby maintaining the pipe 10 fairly coaxial with the receptacle body 40.

[0089] To couple the assembly, the pipe 10 is inserted from its spigot end 12 inside the receptacle body’s 40 clear bore 43. During insertion, when the pipe retention wall 14 enters the clear bore 43, users will observe a radial visibility gap 45 inside the clear bore 43 at the reception end 42 of the receptacle body 40 (FIG. 2-4). Users of the system get a sight of the retention wall 14 from the visibility gap 45 till the time the assembly has not attained a locked configuration. (Fig. 2).

[0090] In a locked state of the assembly, a locking device 80 is positionable inside the key groove 48 to be sandwiched between the receptacle retention wall 51 and the pipe retention wall 14 to prohibit the axial withdrawal of the pipe 10 from the receptacle body 40. (Fig. 3) In an embodiment, the locking device comprises a leading edge 81 towards and for abutment with the receptacle retention wall 51, and an oppositely disposed trailing edge 82 for abutment with the pipe retention wall 14. In such a locked state of the assembly, the view of the pipe retention wall 14 in the visibility gap 45 is replaced by a view of the locking device 80 indicating a positive locking state (FIG 3,4).

[0091] In some versions, the locking device 80 can be a snap acting one, which is prepositioned (Fig. 1) in the key groove 48 and composed of a material with elastic memory to allow its expansion and retraction. The leading edge 81 and trailing edge 82 are connected by an inner edge 83 and outer edge 84. In an uncoupled assembly, the size of the opening of the trailing edge 81, i.e. the inner diameter of the trailing edge 81, of the relaxed snap acting locking device 80, is less than the diameter of the mating surface 17 on the pipe 10. The snap acting locking device 80 expands when stressed upon by the spigot end 12 during insertion of the pipe 10 (Fig. 2) gradually mounting its inner edge 83 on the mating surface 17 of the pipe 10. The key groove 48 is configured to accommodate the increased radial size of the locking device 80 (Fig. 2,5a). This expansion of the locking device 80 permits the entry of the flared portion 16 inside the containing bore 56 of the receptacle body 40, after which, the snap acting locking device 80 quickly contracts to an operative state, while destressing back to assume its relaxed state, such that, the inner diameter of the trailing edge 81 snaps to a size less than the diameter of the mating surface 17 of the pipe 10 (Fig. 3,4) and the assembly attains a locked configuration. Consequently, in the event of axial tensile forces attempting to dislodge the pipe 10 from the receptacle body 40, the split ring locking ring 80 is sandwiched between the pipe retention wall 14 and the receptacle retention wall 51 of the receptacle body 40, which effectively secures the flared portion 16 of the pipe 10 within the containing bore 56 of the receptacle body 40.

[0092] In one version, the snap acting locking device 80 (FIG. 5), is a split ring and have ends 86 and 88 wherein the split ring is discontinuous between them. In some embodiments, the snap acting locking device 80 has an inner edge 83 that is linear (Fig. 1), such that, upon interaction with the spigot end 12, the entire locking device 80 expands i.e. both the leading edge 81 and the trailing edge 82 expand simultaneously (Fig. 2). In a version, the split ring locking device 80 includes multiple spacers 90 (FIGS. 5, 5b) positioned along its outer edge 84 to maintain a co-axial alignment of the split ring locking ring 80 within the key groove 48.

[0093] In some versions, a chamfer 22 is located on the outer periphery of the spigot end 12. When the pipe 10 is inserted into the receptacle body 40 through the clear bore 43, the chamfer 22 presses against the inner edge 83 (FIG. 1). This action facilitates a smooth engagement between the spigot end 12 and the split ring locking ring 80, converting the axial movement of the pipe 10 into a radial displacement across the entire split ring locking ring 80.

[0094] In an embodiment, a seal groove 60 (FIG. 3) within the co-mating surface 57 of the receptacle body 40 houses a compressible elastomeric sealing ring 61. When the flared portion 16 of the pipe 10 is secured inside the containing bore 56, the mating surface 17 of the flared portion 16 compresses the sealing ring 61, ensuring a fluid- tight seal.

[0095] In a version, the receptacle body 40 comprises an end surface 65 (FIG. 1-3) at the end of the containing bore 56 to narrow down the bore of the receptacle conduit body 40 such that the spigot end 12 of the pipe 10 abuts with the end surface 65. During insertion of the pipe 10, when the containing bore 56 of the receptacle body 40 comprises a seal groove 60, it becomes crucial to limit the insertion depth of the spigot end 12 of the pipe 10 into the receptacle body 40 to prevent the pipe retention wall 14 from inadvertently axially reaching beyond the depth of the seal groove 60 within the containing bore 56 thus ensuring that a fluid seal is continuously realized. Such insertion limitation is provided by the end surface 65 of the receptacle body 40 in this embodiment. Various alternative methods for limiting the insertion depth can be utilized (FIG. 25-42), which will be detailed in the following embodiments.

[0096] In other embodiments, the receptacle body 40 does not comprise a seal groove 60 and the sealing ring 61, eliminating the need to limit the insertion of the pipe 10 inside the receptacle body 40, not shown by drawings. Therefore, those versions of the receptacle body 40 can comprise no end surface 65.

[0097] To augment the view of the locking device 80 from the visibility gap 45 for ascertaining the integrity of the joint, in some embodiments, atleast a portion of the locking device 80 visible from the visibility gap 45 has a colour distinct from the colour of the pipe 10 and the receptacle body 40. In some embodiments, the whole locking device 80 has a distinct colour from the colour of the pipe 10 and the receptacle 40.

[0098] An embodiment of the system comprises a visibility enhancement chamfer 44 (FIGS. 3) located in the clear bore 43 of the receptacle body 40, adjacent to the reception end 42. This chamfer 44 increases the visibility span of interior of the receptacle body 40 for the users. Other versions (Fig. 7) comprise no such visibility enhancement chamfer 44. Instead, the combination of the length of the clear bore 43A and the diameter of the outer surface 15A of the pipe 10A provides for a clear view of the split ring locking ring 80A from the visibility gap 45A without requiring the visibility enhancement chamfer 44A.

[0099] In an embodiment, the snap acting split ring locking device 80A has a chamfer 85A located at the inner periphery of the leading edge 81A, (FIG. 6-8) facing the reception end 42A to facilitate smooth interaction with the spigot end 12A of the pipe 10A.

[0100] An embodiment of the pipe system (FIGS. 7-8) includes a chamfer 85A in the split ring locking ring 80A and a push key 70A of a tubular structure. The tubular push key 70A has an insertion end 71A, an oppositely disposed gripping end 74A and a bore 77A having a constant size only slightly larger than the outer surface 15A of the pipe 10A. A raised surface 73A, with a diameter at least equal to that of the mating surface 17A, extends along the outer portion of the push key 70A from its insertion end 71A. This raised surface 73A is designed to be of a length such that, when inserted into the visibility gap 45A of a locked assembly (FIG. 8), the insertion end 71 A penetrates the receptacle body 40A to a depth sufficient to press against the chamfer 85A of the split ring locking ring 80A. This action gradually expands the split ring locking device 80A, causing its inner edge 83A to expand and mount on the raised surface 73A, thereby allowing the pipe 10A to be withdrawn from the receptacle body 40A. In another version, the push key 70A includes a gripping profile 75A (FIG. 8) positioned adjacent to the gripping end 74A to provide a grip for manually holding the push key 70A when unlocking the system.

[0101] As previously noted, in an embodiment of the pipe system (FIG. 6), a pipe 10A is manufactured in stages and not monolithically. A pipe 10A with an outer surface 15A adjacent to its end 13A, is manufactured in a first step without the flared portion 16A. In a second step, a flaring device 30A having a tubular structure is attached on the outer surface 15A at the end 13A of the pipe 10A to provide the flared portion 16A, such that the flaring device 30A becomes an integral part of the pipe 10A.

[0102] An embodiment of a flaring device 30A (FIG. 6) comprises a joining end 33A and an opposite end, which serves as the spigot end 12A of the pipe 10A, and a bore 31 A extending axially inward from the joining end 33A and ends at a bore end 32A before the spigot end 12A of the flaring device 30A. The bore 31A is configured and sized to receive the end 13A of the pipe 10A and join with its outer surface 15A. A flared portion 16A is comprised on the flaring device 30A extending between the spigot end 12A and the pipe retention wall 14A. In an embodiment, the pipe retention wall 14A can be located at the joining end 33A.

[0103] In an embodiment of the pipe 10A, the flaring device 30A and atleast the outer surface 15A of the pipe 10A is manufactured from the same polyolefin material like polyethylene and polypropylene facilitating heat fusion between the bore 31A of the flaring device 30A with the outer surface 15A of the pipe 10A. Polyolefin products have a tendency to gradually deform when subjected to mechanical stress, a phenomenon known as cold flow. In an embodiment of the flaring device 30A, the polyolefin material used for making the flaring device 30A is reinforced with agents including, but not limited to, glass fibre and carbon fibre to prevent its deformation due to cold flow. In an embodiment of the pipe 10A, the flaring device 30A and the pipe 10A are manufactured separately of the same polyolefin material and the bore 31A of the flaring device 30A are heat fused together in a second step. In another embodiment also illustrated from Fig. 6, the pipe 10A is made of a polyolefin material like polyethylene or polypropylene and a flaring device 30A of the same polyolefin material as the pipe 10A is over-moulded at the end 13A of the pipe 10A. This would eliminate an additional step of separately manufacturing the flaring device 30A and then heat fusing it at the end 13A of the pipe 10A. Rather, the flaring device 30A at the time of its manufacturing, simultaneously gets attached at the end 13A of the pipe 10A leading to cost and time savings and also ensures an inseparable attachment between the flaring device 30A and the pipe 10A.

[0104] While, in yet another embodiment also illustrated from Fig. 6, the pipe 10A and the flaring device 30A are manufactured separately from PVC material in a first step followed by the fusion of the bore 31 A and the outer surface 15A adjacent to the end 13A of the pipe 10A by a solvent adhesive.

[0105] In another version, the tubular push key 70A includes a single discontinuity 76A (FIG. 9) such that the push key 70A is mounted on a pipe 10A in the field by enlarging the gap in the discontinuity 76A (FIG. 9a) to a size equal or greater than the diameter of the outer surface 15A of the pipe 10A.

[0106] In another embodiment, the push key 70A does not comprise the discontinuity 76A and the attachment of flaring device 30A on the pipe 10A is done after slidingly mounting the push key 70A on the pipe 10A. Thereby, the push key becomes an integral part of the pipe 10A.

[0107] In one version (FIG. 10, 10a), the snap acting split ring locking device 80B features radial extensions 87B & 89B extending from ends 86B and 88B, respectively, protruding outside the receptacle body 40B through an opening 53B. To unlock an assembly, the users space apart the radial extensions 87B and 89B from each other (FIG. 10b), such that the split ring locking device 80B gradually enlarges to a maximum radial size possible inside the key groove 48B. Consequently, inner edge 83B attains a diameter greater than that of the mating surface 17B, permitting the axial withdrawal of the pipe 10B from the receptacle body 40B.

[0108] In some embodiments of the receptacle 40B, the opening 53B features a stop member 54B to trap a radial extension 89B (FIG. 10b) in a portion of the opening 53B, such that the user is enabled to push away only the other radial extension 87B to expand the split ring locking ring 80B.

[0109] In another version (FIG. 11, Ila), the snap-acting split ring locking device 80C features circumferentially overlapping ends 86C and 88C, each with radial extensions 87C and 89C. These extensions protrude visibly through an opening 53C in the receptacle body 40C. When the user brings the radial extensions 87C and 89C closer together (FIG. 11b), the split ring locking ring 80C expands to its maximum circular size within the key groove 48C where the diameter of the inner edge 83 is greater than that of the mating surface 17. This allows for the axial withdrawal of the pipe 10C from the receptacle body 40C.

[0110] In another embodiment (Fig. 12), the bore 31C of the flaring device 30C, has threading 35C for affixation with a threaded portion 28C on the outer surface 15C adjacent to the end 13C of the pipe 10C. The flaring device 30C can be manufactured from any rigid material for making threads on its outer surface 15C.

[0111] Figure 13 shows an embodiment of the pipe system 1C in an un-coupled state. In an embodiment of the pipe system 1C, the pipe 10C is a conduit body having multiple ends for example a Bend 2C acts as a pipe 10C at the spigot end 12 / 2C, a Tee 3C acting as a pipe 10C at all three spigot ends 12 / 3C, a male-female pipe 5C acting as a pipe 10C at the spigot end 12 / 5C or an extruded tube 6C acting as the pipe 10C at two spigot ends 12 / 6C. In an embodiment, the pipe 10C has a plurality of spigot end 12C for the example, a Tee 3C, a pipe 6C. In another embodiment, the pipe IOC further comprises one or more reception ends 42C for example, a Bend 2C, a straight pipe 5C.

[0112] In yet another embodiment, the pipe IOC has one or more ends for joining the current pipe system with another pipe system having a different joining method. In yet another embodiment, the pipe IOC has no other end for example an end cap.

[0113] In another embodiment of the pipe system, the receptacle body 40C can be a conduit body having multiple ends, for example, a bend 2C acting as a receptacle body 40C at reception end 42 / 2C, a female-by-female adapter 4C acting as a receptacle body 40C at both its reception ends 42 / 4C, a male by female adapter 5C acting as a receptacle body 40C at reception end 42 / 5C etc. In an embodiment, the receptacle body 40C has multiple reception ends 42C for example an adapter 4C having reception ends 42 / 4C. In another version, the receptacle body 40C has one or more spigot end 12C for example a bend 2C, a male by female adapter 5C.

[0114] In yet another embodiment, the receptacle body 40C has one or more ends for joining with another pipe system having a different joining method. In yet another embodiment, the receptacle 40C has no other inlet / outlet end for example an end cap 7C.

[0115] The structure of the pipe IOC and receptacle body 40C is not limited to the pipe system 1C of Figure 13 and can be constructed with many other conduit bodies not illustrated by way of drawings and are generally available in the market for example a Y-shape or a 4 way cross etc. It would be understood by the user that the conduit bodies illustrated in Fig. 13 has a different combination of inlet / outlet ends for example the bend 2C can have both ends as spigot ends 12 / 2C, or both ends as reception end 42 / 2C depending on the end use requirements.

[0116] In another embodiment of the flaring device 30D, illustrated in Fig. 14, the joining end 33D and the pipe retention wall 14D are disposed at a distance from each other, separated by an extended surface 34D. This configuration provides an extended engagement between the bore 31D and the outer surface 15D ensuring a more reliable attachment of the flaring device 30D on the pipe 10D.

[0117] In another embodiment, the push key 70D comprises a slide chamfer 72D (Fig. 14) at the inner periphery of the insertion end 71D and the key bore 77D is sized to mount on the extended surface 34D. The slide chamfer 72D facilitates smooth engagement with the joining end 33D of the flaring device 30D while inserting the push key 70D inside a locked assembly (Fig. 15).

[0118] In another embodiment, the snap-acting locking device 80E has a rhomboidal crosssection (Fig. 16). Its cross-section can have a leading edge 81E, transverse to the centre axis 41E, located towards retention wall 51E and an oppositely disposed trailing edge 82E. An inner side wall 83E and an outer edge 84E taper inwardly from the leading edge 81E towards the trailing edge 82E connecting the trailing edge 82E with the leading edge 81E. The rhomboidal locking device 80E is preinstalled inside the key groove 48E such that the installed portion attains a frusto- conical configuration.

[0119] In a version of the rhomboidal cross-section locking device, it is an arcuate band (a section of a ring). In a pre-installed state (Fig. 17), the outer diameter of the leading edge 81E of the rhomboidal band locking device 80E has a size not less than that of the key groove 48E, such that upon its location inside the key groove 48E, the outer rim of the leading edge 81E sits in communication with the key groove 48E (Fig. 16) and attains a circular size and shape corresponding to the key groove 48E (Fig. 18).

[0120] An embodiment of the receptacle body 40E, comprises an opening 53E (Fig. 18) to facilitate insertion of the rhomboidal band locking device 80E from an end 86E for positioning it inside the key groove 48E. In another embodiment, an end 88E of the locking device 80E is left outside the receptacle body 40E (Fig. 22) for withdrawal of the locking device 80E for decoupling the system.

[0121] In an un-coupled state of the assembly, when the rhomboidal locking device 80E is located inside the key groove 48E, the mating surface 17E of the pipe 10E has a diameter greater than the inner diameter of the trailing edge 82E. Additionally, the outer diameter of the trailing edge 82E is larger than that of the co-mating surface 57E of the receptacle body 40E (Fig. 16). Consequently, when the spigot end 12E of the pipe 10E engages with the rhomboidal locking device 80E, the trailing edge 82E comes into contact with the opposite side wall 52E (Fig. 16a). This prevents the locking device 80E from moving inward into the containing bore 56E, thereby confining it within the key groove 48E.

[0122] Upon further insertion of the pipe 10E, the spigot end 12E engages with the inner edge 83E causing the enlarging of the inner rim of the trailing edge 82E of the rhomboidal locking device 80E (FIG. 19). This gradual expansion allows the inner rim of the trailing edge 82E to slide over the mating surface 17E and allow entry of the flared portion 16E of the pipe 10E into the containing portion 56E (FIG. 20). When the retention wall 14E aligns with the opposite side wall 52E, the trailing edge 82E of the rhomboidal locking device 80E snaps to attain an inner diameter less than that of the mating surface 17E (FIG. 21), ensuring that the trailing edge 82E abuts with the retention wall 14E when axial tensile forces attempt to dislodge the pipe 10E from the receptacle body 40E.

[0123] In another embodiment, the assembly comprises a push key 70E wherein the insertion end 71E (FIG. 23) pushes the inner edge 83E of the rhomboidal locking device 80E to expand the locking device 80E completely inside the key groove 48E, facilitating the axial withdrawal of the pipe 10E from the receptacle body 40E.

[0124] In another embodiment, the rhomboidal cross-section locking device 80F is a split ring, where the arc length of the outer rim of the leading edge 81F is no greater than the circumference of the key groove 48F (FIG. 24). This design allows the locking device 80F to be inserted into the key groove 48F from the clear bore 43F and sit entirely within the key groove 48F (FIG. 25). Additionally, the maximum radial length 97E of the locking device 80E is not less than the diameter of the key groove 48E. In some versions, the locking device 80F comprises a flattened portion 92F (FIG. 24) interrupting between the overall curved structure of the locking device 80F, such that the locking device 80F is compressed for insertion inside the key groove 48F, re-expands to attain a circular shape corresponding to the key groove 48F, and sits completely inside the key groove 48F after insertion from the clear bore 43F.

[0125] Persons skilled in the art will realize that versions of the current system be formed such that the locking device 80F comprises no flattened portion 92F and the outer radius of the leading edge 81F of the locking device 80F is equal or greater than the radius of the key groove 48F to make the leading edge 81F attain a circular shape corresponding to the key groove 48F.

[0126] In another embodiment the key groove 48G of the receptacle body 40G comprises a deep groove 55G (FIG. 26,26a) positioned adjacent the receptacle retention wall 51G and the rhomboidal locking device 80G features a catch member 91G protruding radially on the outer periphery of the leading edge 81G (FIG. 26a). In its relaxed state and before being located inside the receptacle body 40G, the outer radius of the catch member 91G of the rhomboidal locking device 80G can match or exceed the radius of the deep groove 55G, such that the outer rim of the catch member 91G sits in communication with the deep groove 55G. When the entire locking device 80G inclines to expand within the key groove 48G (FIG. 27a), the axial width of the deep groove 55G is greater than that of the catch member 91G to allow the catch member 91G to incline within the deep groove 55G.

[0127] When the spigot end 12G of the pipe 10G pushes the inner edge 83G of the rhomboidal locking device 80G (FIG. 27a), the deep groove 55G retains the catch member 91G within it, causing the inner edge 83G to start expanding immediately without the rhomboidal locking device 80G touching the opposite sidewall 52G (FIG. 28). In another embodiment, not shown by figures, the rhomboidal locking device 80G featuring a catch member 91G has a trailing edge 82G with an outer diameter not greater than that of the co-mating surface 57G of the receptacle body 40G

[0128] In an embodiment of the pipe system (Fig. 30), the restriction of the pipe’s 10H insertion inside the receptacle body 40H is acheived by incorporating a tapered limiting shoulder 18H on the outer surface of the flared portion 16H of the pipe 10H. This limiting shoulder 18H is contiguous with the mating surface 17H and decreases the size of the outer surface of the flared portion 16H by tapering inwardly from the mating surface 17H to a linear second mating surface 19H. Such tapering of the limiting shoulder 18H facilitates its smooth entry inside the receptacle body 40H along with smooth interaction with the locking ring 80H.

[0129] The containing bore 56H of the receptacle body 40H is reformable to closely match the contour of flared portion 16H of the pipe 10H, and features a co-limiting shoulder 58H. The co-limiting shoulder 58H is contiguous with the mating surface 57H and followed by a linear second co-mating surface 59H. The second co-mating surface 59H has a size only slightly larger than that of the second mating surface 19H of the pipe 10H to ensure a snug fit to contain the flared portion 16H within. During insertion of the pipe 10H inside the receptacle body 40H the limiting shoulder 18H abuts with the co-limiting shoulder 58H to limit the insertion.

[0130] In an embodiment, the co-limiting shoulder 58H in the receptacle body 40H tapers inwardly from the co-mating surface 57H to the second co-mating surface 59H. However, skilled artisans would understand that an effective embodiment of the current system can be formed with a co-limiting shoulder 58H which is transverse to the centre axis 41H, and paired to abut with a tapered limiting shoulder 18H on the pipe 10H, providing an equally effective barrier to the excessive entry of the pipe 10H in the receptacle body 40H. In an embodiment of the pipe 10H, the second mating surface 19H incorporates a seal groove 23H, wherein an elastomeric compressible sealing ring 24H is locatable (Fig. 30). This sealing ring 24H is designed to be compressed against its outer surface by the second co-mating surface 59H of the receptacle body 40H upon achieving a locked configuration (Fig. 34), ensuring a fluid-tight seal between the components.

[0131] Figures 30-34 illustrate the stages undergone by an embodiment of the pipe system for creating a locked joint. Figure 30 illustrates a pipe 10H positioned adjacent to the receptacle 40H at the onset of insertion. Figure 31 illustrates the inner edge 83H of the snap acting locking device 80H attaining a larger radial size to climb on the second mating surface 19H and start engagement with the pipe sealing ring 24H. Figure 32 and 32a, illustrate the inner edge 83H of the snap acting locking device 80H expanding further over the sealing ring 24H and starting engagement with the limiting shoulder 18H of the pipe 10H. Figure 33 illustrates a maximum desired expansion of the snap acting locking device 80H for insertion of the mating surface 17H inside the containing portion 56H of the receptacle body 40H. And finally, the figure 34 illustrates the pipe system in a locked / assembled / operative state.

[0132] In another embodiment, a pressure gasket groove 62H, containing a pressure- activated gasket 63H, is located after the second co-mating surface 59H and followed by an expanded surface 64H for the remaining portion of the containing bore 56H (Fig. 30). The expanded surface 64H has a size significantly larger than that of the second mating surface 19H but adequate to confine the pressure- activated gasket 63H within the gasket groove 62H. When the assembly is in a locked and operational state (Fig. 34), the enlargement of the end portion of the containing bore 56H by the expanded surface 64H creates a fluid channel 68H at the spigot end 12H of the pipe 10H. This channel serves to direct pressurized fluid to the pressure-activated gasket 63H. The pressurized fluid from fluid channel 68H expands the pressure-activated gasket 63H into tight engagement within the pressure gasket groove 62H and the second mating surface 19H to provide a fluid seal between the components.

[0133] In an embodiment, the second co-mating surface 591 features a seal groove 601 housing a sealing ring 611 (Fig. 35), configured to be compressed by the second mating surface 191 of the pipe 101 upon achieving a locked configuration.

[0134] In an embodiment, a locking ring 801 features a chamfer 851 (FIG. 35) to interact in a smoother manner with the sealing ring 241 and the limiting shoulder 181 of the pipe 101 during insertion.

[0135] In an embodiment, a flaring device 301 is affixed on a pipe 101 to provide a flared portion 161. The flaring device 301 has a linear second mating surface 191 located adjacent to the spigot end 121 and a limiting shoulder 181 bridges between the mating surface 171 and the second mating surface 191.

[0136] In another embodiment, the locking ring 80J has a rhomboidal cross-section (Fig. 36-37) wherein the inner edge 83J is tapered and enables a smooth engagement of the locking ring 80J with the sealing ring 24J and the limiting shoulder 18J on the pipe 10J.

[0137] In another embodiment of the pipe system, (Fig. 38), the receptacle body 40K comprises one or more thrust rib 66K extending axially from the interior of the containing bore 56K for a length towards the reception end 42K. Correspondingly, the spigot end 12K of the pipe 10K comprise a thrust slot 26K relative to each thrust rib 66K (Fig. 39-40). When the spigot end 12K of the pipe 10K enters the containing bore 56K of the receptacle body 40K, the pipe 10K is rotated along with axial insertion inside the receptacle body 40K to locate each thrust rib 66K within the corresponding thrust slot 26K (Fig. 41), thereby permitting further axial entry of the spigot end 12K beyond the rib end 67K. The rib end 67K limits excessive entry of the pipe 10K inside the receptacle body 40K by abutting with the slot end 27K (Fig. 42). The interlock between the thrust rib 66K and the thrust slot 26K prohibits unsynchronized rotation between the receptacle body 42K and the pipe 10K

[0138] An embodiment of the pipe 10K can comprise an engagement shoulder 20K decreasing the diameter of the flared portion 16K from the mating surface 17K to a non-engagement surface 21K (Fig. 40) such that the diameter of the nonengagement surface 21K is smaller than the inner diameter of the sealing ring 61K pre-positioned in the receptacle body 40K. The engagement shoulder 20K is located on the flared portion 16K such that during insertion of the pipe 10K inside the receptacle body 40K. The engagement shoulder 20K engages with the sealing ring 61K only after location of the thrust ribs 66K inside the corresponding thrust slot 26K (Fig. 41), which avoids any frictional resistance to rotation of the pipe 10K caused by the sealing ring 61K.

[0139] In another embodiment, the receptacle body 40K is a tube, extrusion formed with one or more thrust rib 66K running continuously inside the tube, wherein after extrusion, the tube is machined to remove the unrequired length of each rib 66K and to form the key groove 48K in the bore of the tube to shape the receptacle body 40K

[0140] Fig. 39-42 illustrate the embodiment of the pipe 10K wherein thrust slots 26K employed as entry barrier can be formed monolithically on the pipe 10K, by injection moulded manufacturing of the conduit body acting as the pipe 10K.

[0141] In another embodiment of the pipe system, the thrust slot 26L on the pipe 10L can be comprised by affixing a flaring device 30L at its end 13L as illustrated in Fig. 43. The flaring device 30L comprises one or more thrust slot 26L extending axially inward from the spigot end 12L of the flaring device 30L to end at or before the bore end 32L of the bore 3 IL (Fig. 43). In an embodiment (Fig. 44-47), the pipe 10M can comprise a number of thrust slots 26M along with a limiting shoulder 18M and a second mating surface 19M and a sealing ring 24M. The sealing ring 24M is positioned on the second mating surface 19M, such that the sealing ring 24M stays uncompressed under co-mating surface 57M and engages with a tapered co-limiting shoulder 58M in the receptacle body 40M (Fig. 46-46a) only after locating the thrust ribs 66M inside the corresponding thrust slot 26M to avoid any frictional resistance to rotation of the pipe 10M caused by the sealing ring 24M during insertion of the pipe 10M inside the receptacle body 40M

[0142] In another embodiment, the receptacle body 40M comprises a sealing ring 61M in the second co-mating surface 59M and an engagement shoulder 20M is located on the flared portion 16M. The engagement shoulder 20M bridges between with the second mating surface 19M and a non-engagement surface 21M, such that the engagement shoulder 20M engages with the sealing ring 61M only after location of the thrust ribs 66M inside the corresponding thrust slot 26M (Fig. 46-46a). This engagement of the engagement shoulder 20M with the sealing ring 61M avoids any frictional resistance to rotation of the pipe 10M caused by the sealing ring 61M during insertion of the pipe 10M inside the receptacle body 40M.

[0143] In another embodiment, the locking device 80N is a split ring with interlocking ends featuring a locking profile 93N and a complementary locking profile 94N at one of the ends 86N & 88N along with radial extensions 87N & 89N (FIG. 48). The locking device 80N is pre-positioned in the key groove 48N before insertion of the pipe ION inside the receptacle body 40N, such that, upon placement in the key groove 48N, and in a relaxed state, the inner edge 83N of the split ring locking device 80N has a diameter atleast slightly greater than the diameter of the mating surface 17N (FIG. 49). Upon complete insertion of the flared portion 16N of the pipe ION inside the containing bore 56N of the receptacle body 40N, the radial extensions 87N & 89N are squeezed together to interlock the locking profile 93N and the complementary locking profile 94N against each other to decrease the size of locking device 80N to a locked state (FIG. 50). In a locked state, the inner edge 83N of the locking device 80N has a diameter less than that of the mating surface 17N of the pipe ION and the locking ring 80N is sandwiched between the pipe retention wall 14N and the receptacle retention wall 51N to prohibit the withdrawal of the pipe ION from the receptacle body 40N. To unlock the assembly, the users can space apart the radial extensions 87N and 89N from each other, such that the locking profile 93N and complementary locking profile 94N detach from each other to revert the locking device 80N to a relaxed state permitting the withdrawal of the pipe ION from the receptacle body 40N.

[0144] Figure. 51 illustrates the assembly of the pipe system with a locking device 80N configured as a split ring with locking ends, demonstrating the visibility gap 45N which provides a view of the locking device 80N when the assembly attains a coupled state. During field assembly of the system, there may be instances where the locking profile 93N and complementary locking profile 94N only partially engage, resulting in a less robust and unsustainable compression of the locking device 80N into a locked state. However, the visibility gap 45N demonstrates the insufficient contraction of the locking device 80N to the user and prevents unintended decoupling of the system.

[0145] In another embodiment, the locking device 80P is a flexible spline manufactured from a resilient and flexible plastic material like nylon, having an insertion end 96P and an outside end 95P (FIG. 52). The spline type locking device 80P is inserted from the insertion end 96P in the key groove 48P from an opening 53P after complete insertion of the flared portion 16P of the pipe 10P inside the containing bore 56P of the receptacle body 40P (FIG. 53). The key groove 48P has a depth less than the radial thickness of the locking device 80P such that upon insertion inside the key groove 48P, the locking device 80P acts against the pipe retention wall 14P acting as a barrier for withdrawal of the pipe 10P from the receptacle body 40P (FIG. 54). During assembly of the system in the field, a situation can arise wherein the length of the spline type locking device 80P falls short of covering the whole periphery of the key groove 48P where the locking device 80P provides an inferior locking strength than attainable. In other cases, the user may accidentally insert the whole spline type locking device 80P into the key groove 48P and the assembly becomes permanent and not de-couplable. Figure. 55 illustrates the visibility gap 45P providing a view of the locking device 80P to avert the aforementioned situations.

[0146] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is, therefore, contemplated that such modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined.

Claims

I Claim:

1. A pipe system comprising: a pipe (10, 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, 10E, 10G, 10H, 101, 10J, 10K, 10L, 10M, ION, 10P) comprising an axis (11, 11G, 11H), a spigot end (12, 12A, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12G, 12H, 121, 12K, 12L, 12M), an outer surface (15, 15 A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15H, 151, 15K, 15L, 15M, 15N, 15P), a smooth bore (25, 25 A) and a flared portion (16, 16 A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16 J, 16K, 16L, 16M, 16P) extending axially inwardly from the spigot end (12, 12A, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12G, 12H, 121, 12K, 12L, 12M) to a radial pipe retention wall (14, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14G, 14H, 141, 14J, 14K, 14L, 14M, 14P), wherein, the flared portion (16, 16 A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16 J, 16K, 16L, 16M, 16P) comprises a mating surface (17, 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, 17G, 17H, 171, 17J, 17K, 17L, 17M, 17N) positioned adjacent to the pipe retention wall (14, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14G, 14H, 141, 14J, 14K, 14L, 14M, 14P) and is formed of a diameter greater than that of the outer surface (15, 15 A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15H, 151, 15K, 15L, 15M, 15N, 15P), a receptacle body (40, 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 40E, 40F, 40G, 40H, 401, 40J, 40K, 40L, 40M, 40N, 40P) comprising an axis (41, 41G, 41H) and a reception end (42, 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E, 42G, 42H, 421, 42J, 42K, 42L, 42M, 42N, 42P); a clear bore (43, 43A, 43D, 43E, 43H, 43K, 43M, 43P) that inwardly extends from the reception end (42) upto a key groove (48, 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D, 48E, 48F, 48G, 48H, 481, 48 J, 48K, 48L, 48M, 48N, 48P) lying between a receptacle retention wall (51, 51 A, 5 IE, 51G, 51H, 5 IP) towards the clear bore (43, 43 A, 43D, 43E, 43H, 43K, 43M, 43P) and an opposite sidewall (52, 52A, 52E, 52G), and a containing bore (56, 56A, 56E, 56H, 561, 56J, 56M, 56P) extending axially from the opposite sidewall (52, 52A, 52E, 52G) to the interior of the receptacle body to accommodate the flared portion (16, 16A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16J, 16K, 16L, 16M, 16P) axially and radially within the flared portion (16, 16A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16 J, 16K, 16L, 16M, 16P), such that, a visibility gap (45, 45 A, 45D, 45E, 45G, 45H, 45K, 45L, 45N, 45P) in the inner periphery of the clear bore (43, 43 A, 43D, 43E, 43H, 43K, 43P) is formed when the pipe retention wall (14, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14G, 14H, 141, 14J, 14K, 14L, 14P) enters the clear bore (43, 43 A, 43D, 43E, 43H, 43K, 43P) during insertion of the pipe (10, 10A,10B, IOC, 1OD, 1OE, 1OF, 1OG, 1OH, 101, 10 J, 10K, 10L, 10M, ION, 1 OP), wherein the visibility gap (45, 45A, 45D, 45E, 45G, 45H, 45K, 45L, 45N, 45P) provides a view of the pipe retention wall (14, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14G, 14H, 141, 14J, 14K, 14L, 14M, 14P) from the reception end (42, 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E, 42G, 42H, 421, 42J, 42K, 42L, 42M, 42N, 42P) until the assembly is in an uncoupled state, a locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80J, 80K, 80L, 80M, 80P) located in the key groove (48, 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D, 48E, 48F, 48G, 48H, 481, 48J, 48K, 48L, 48M, 48N, 48P) comprising a leading edge (81, 81A, 81B, 81C, 81E, 81F, 81G, 81N, 81P) towards the receptacle retention wall (51, 51A, 51E, 51G, 51H, 5 IP) and an oppositely disposed trailing edge (82, 82A, 82E, 82G, 82H), wherein the a locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80J, 80K, 80L, 80M, 80P) is positioned to be sandwiched between the pipe retention wall (14, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14G, 14H, 141, 14J, 14K, 14L, 14M, 14P) and receptacle retention wall (51, 51 A, 5 IE, 51G, 51H, 5 IP) to couple the assembly, such that, the visibility gap (45, 45A, 45D, 45E, 45G, 45H, 45K, 45L, 45N, 45P) provides a view of the locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80J, 80K, 80L, 80M, 80P) when the system attains a coupled state.

2. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the clear bore (43, 43D, 43E, 43H, 43K) comprises a visibility enhancement chamfer (44, 44D, 44E, 44H, 44K) at the reception end (42, 42D, 42E, 42H, 42K)3. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking device (80N) is a split ring with interlocking ends, configured to be pre-positioned in the key groove (48N) before the insertion of the pipe (10N) into the receptacle body (40N), wherein the split ring comprises : a locking profile (93N) at one end (86N) and a complementary locking profile (94N) at the other end (88N), such that when placed in the key groove (48N) in a relaxed state, an inner edge (83N) of the split ring has a diameter not less than that of the mating surface (17N) of the pipe (10N) , and wherein upon interlocking the locking profile (93N) and complementary locking profile (94N), the inner edge (83N) acquires a diameter smaller than that of the mating surface (17N).

4. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking device (80P) is a flexible spline made from a resilient and flexible plastic material, such as but not limitedto nylon, wherein the spline-type locking device (80P) is inserted from an opening (53P) in the key groove (48P) after the complete insertion of a flared portion (16P) of the pipe (10P) into the containing bore (56P) of the receptacle body (40P).

5. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, comprises a snap acting locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80J, 80K, 80L, 80M) that is prepositioned in the key groove (48, 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D, 48E, 48F, 48G, 48H, 481, 48J, 48K, 48L, 48M) before insertion of the pipe (10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10G, 10H, 101, 10 J, 10K, 10L, 10M), wherein in an un-coupled assembly of the pipe system, the inner diameter of a trailing edge (82, 82A, 82E, 82G, 82J) of the snap acting locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80J, 80K, 80L, 80M) is less than that of the mating surface (17, 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, 17G, 17H, 171, 17J, 17K, 17L, 17M) of the pipe (10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10G, 10H, 101, 10J, 10K, 10L, 10M), and wherein upon insertion of the pipe (10, 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, 10E, 10G, 10H, 101, 10 J, 10K, 10L, 10M), the locking device (80, 80 A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80 J, 80K, 80L, 80M) gradually expands permitting the flared portion (16, 16A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16J, 16K, 16L, 16M) of the pipe (10, 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, 10E, 10G, 10H, 101, 10J, 10K, 10L, 10M) to enter the containing bore (56, 56A, 56E, 56H, 561, 56J, 56M) and when the flared portion (16, 16A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16J, 16K, 16L, 16M) locates completely inside the containing bore (56, 56A, 56E, 56H, 561, 56J, 56M), the locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, 80G, 80H, 801, 80J, 80K, 80L, 80M) destresses and contracts, which causes trapping of the flared portion (16, 16A, 16C, 16D, 16E, 16H, 161, 16J, 16K, 16L, 16M) within the containing bore (56, 56A, 56E, 56H, 561, 56J, 56M) and locking the assembly.

6. The pipe system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the locking device (80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80H, 801) is a snap acting split ring having an inner edge (83, 83 A, 83B, 83C, 83D, 83H, 831) that is linear to the axis (41, 41H) of the receptacle body (40, 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 40H, 401, 40K, 40L, 40M).

7. The pipe system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the split ring locking device (80A, 80D, 801) comprises a chamfer (85A, 85D, 851) facing the reception end (42A, 42D, 421) that is positioned in the inner periphery of its leading edge (81 A).

8. The pipe system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the split ring locking device (80B) has an incomplete circumference and comprises radial extensions (87B and 89B) at ends (86B and 88B) of the split ring locking device (80B), which protrude outward from an opening (53B) in the key groove (48B) of the receptacle body (40B), wherein when the radial extensions (87B and 89B) are pushed apart, the split ring locking ring device (80B) expands, causing inner edge (83B) of the split ring locking ring device (80B) to achieve a size larger than that of the mating surface (17B) of the pipe (10B).

9. The pipe system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the ends (86C and 88C) of the split ring locking device (80C) circumferentially overlap and comprise radial extensions (87C and 89C) which protrude out from an opening (53C) in the key groove (48C), wherein upon squeezing the radial extensions (87C and 89C) together, the locking ring device (80C) expands to a size such that its inner edge (83 C) achieves a diameter larger than that of the mating surface (17C) of the pipe (IOC).

10. The pipe system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the snap acting locking device (80E, 80F, 80G, 80J) is formed of a rhomboidal cross-section, wherein an inner edge (83E, 83F, 83G, 83J) and an outer edge (84E, 84G) taper inwardly towards the trailing edge (82E, 82G, 82J) such that the portion of the locking ring device (80E, 80F, 80G, 80J) located inside the key groove (48E, 48F, 48G, 48J) forms a frusto-conical configuration.

11. The pipe system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the locking device (80F) is a snap acting split ring completely accommodatable inside the key groove (48F), wherein the maximum radial size (97F) of the leading edge (8 IF) is not less than the diameter of the key groove (48F), which ensures that upon placement within the key groove (48F) the outer rim of the leading edge (8 IF) contacts the base of the key groove (48F) to form a corresponding circular shape.

12. The pipe system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the split ring locking device (80G) comprises a catch member (91G) extending on the outer periphery of the leading edge (81G), and the key groove (48G) of the receptacle body (40G) comprises a deep groove (55G) adjacent to the receptacle retention wall (51G) to capture the catch member (91G) within, which limits the axial movement of the locking device (80G) andinitiates immediate expansion of the locking device (80G) upon being pushed by the spigot end (12G) during insertion of the pipe (10G) in the receptacle body (40G).

13. The pipe system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the snap acting locking device (80E) comprises an arcuate band, wherein the outer diameter of the leading edge (8 IE) is not smaller than that of the key groove (48E), consequently upon placement of the locking ring device (80E) within the key groove (48E), the outer rim of the leading edge (8 IE) makes contact with the base of the key groove (48E) to form a corresponding circular shape.

14. The pipe system as claimed in claim 5, comprises a tubular push key (70A, 70D, 70E) featuring a bore (77A, 77D, 77E), an insertion end (71 A, 7 ID, 7 IE), an oppositely disposed gripping end (74A), and a raising surface (73 A, 73D, 73E), extending axially on the outer of the push key (70A, 70D, 70E) from the insertion end (71A, 71D, 71E), wherein the bore (77A, 77D, 77E) is mountable on the outer surface (15 A, 15D, 15E) of the pipe (10A, 10D, 10E), and the raising surface (73 A, 73D, 73E) has a diameter not less than that of the mating surface (17A, 17D, 17E) of the pipe (10A, 10D, 10E), such that subsequent to insertion of the push key (70A, 70D, 70E) from its insertion end (71 A, 7 ID, 7 IE) into the visibility gap (45 A, 45D, 45E) of a coupled assembly, the locking device (80A, 80D, 80E) expands within the key groove (48A, 48D, 48E), causing decoupling of the system.

15. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flared portion (16H, 161, 16 J, 16M) comprises a limiting shoulder (18H, 181, 18 J, 18M) tapering inwardly from the mating surface (17H, 171, 17J, 17M), to a second mating surface (19H, 191, 19J, 19M), and complementing the contours of the flared portion (16H, 161, 16J, 16M), the containing bore (56H, 561, 56J, 56M) of the receptacle body (40H, 401, 40J, 40M) comprises a co-mating surface and a second co-mating surface (59H, 591, 59 J, 59M), both configured to accommodate mating surface (17H, 171, 17 J, 17M) and the second mating surface (19H, 191, 19J, 19M) respectively, separated from each other by a colimiting shoulder (58H, 581, 58 J, 58M), such that the pipe’s (10H, 101, 10 J, 10M) insertion inside the receptacle body (40H, 401, 40J, 40M) is limited by the abutment between the limiting shoulder (18H, 181, 18J, 18M) and the co-limiting shoulder (58H, 581, 58 J, 58M).

16. The pipe system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the containing bore (56H) comprises a pressure activated gasket (63H) housed inside a pressure gasket groove (62H) located deeper in the receptacle body (40H) after the second co-mating surface (59H), and followed axially by an expanded surface (64H) having a diameter larger than the second mating surface (19H) of the pipe (10H) to provide a fluid channel (68H) for the operating the pressure activated gasket (63H) when the assembly is in a locked state.

17. The pipe system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the co-limiting shoulder (58H, 581, 58J, 58M) is tapered to the axis (42H) of the receptacle body (40H, 401, 40J, 40M).

18. The pipe system as claimed in claim 17, comprises a seal groove (23H, 23M) housing a compressible sealing ring (24H, 24M) located on the second mating surface (19H, 19M) of the pipe (10H, 10M) such that in a coupled state of assembly, the sealing ring (24H, 24M) stays compressed against the second co-mating surface (59H, 59M) to provide a fluid seal between the pipe (10H, 10M) and the receptacle body (40H, 40M).

19. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, comprises a one or more of thrust ribs (66K, 66L, 66M) extending axially towards the reception end (42K, 42L, 42M) from the interior of the containing bore (56K, 56M), wherein the pipe (10K, 10L, 10M) comprises a thrust slot (26K, 26L, 26M) corresponding to each rib (66K, 66L, 66M), wherein during the insertion of the pipe (10K, 10L, 10M) into the receptacle body (40K, 40L, 40M), the pipe (10K, 10L, 10M) is simultaneously rotated to align and interlock the thrust rib (66K, 66L, 66M) with the corresponding thrust slot (26K, 26L, 26M), wherein the interlock prevents unsynchronized rotation between the pipe (10K, 10L, 10M) and the receptacle body (40K, 40L, 40M) in the coupled state of the assembly.

20. The pipe system as claimed in claim 19, wherein a seal groove (23M) containing a sealing ring (23M) is positioned on the second mating surface (19M), wherein a colimiting shoulder (58M) in the containing bore (56M) and the sealing ring (24M) engage after each thrust rib (66M) is located inside the respective thrust slot (26M).

21. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, comprises a seal groove (60, 601, 60K, 60M) positioned in the containing bore (56, 561, 56K, 56M) of the receptacle body (40,401, 40K, 40M), which houses a compressible sealing ring (61, 611, 6 IK, 6 IM), wherein in a coupled assembly, the sealing ring (61, 611, 61K, 61M) stays compressed against the flared portion (16, 161, 16K, 16M) of the pipe to provide a fluid seal.

22. The pipe system as claimed in claim 19, comprises a non-engagement surface (2 IK, 2 IM) having a diameter less than the inner diameter of a sealing ring (6 IK, 6 IM) located in a seal groove (60K, 60M) in the containing bore (56K, 56M) of the receptacle body (40K, 40M), wherein the non-engagement surface (2 IK, 2 IM) extends axially on the pipe (10K, 10M) from the spigot end (12K, 12M) and is followed contiguously by a tapered seal engagement shoulder (20K, 20M), and wherein the length of the non- engagement surface (2 IK, 2 IM) is configured to engage the seal engagement shoulder (20K, 20M) with the sealing ring (6 IK, 6 IM) after each thrust rib (66K, 66M) is located inside the respective thrust slot (26K, 26M) during insertion of the pipe (10K, 10M).

23. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flared portion (16A, 16C, 16D, 161, 16J, 16L) is comprised on the pipe (10A, 10C, 10D, 101, 10 J, 10L) by attaching a flaring device (30A, 30C, 30D, 301, 30J, 30L) at a pipe end (13A, 13C, 13D, 131, 13J, 13L), wherein the flaring device (30A, 30C, 30D, 301, 30J, 30L) is a tubular body having a spigot end (12A, 12C, 12D, 121, 12J, 12L), an oppositely disposed) oining end (33A, 33C, 33D, 331, 33J, 33L), a flared portion (16A, 16C, 16D, 161, 16J, 16L) extending on the flaring device (30 A, 30C, 30D, 301, 30 J, 30L) from the spigot end (12A, 12C, 12D, 121, 12L) for a length up to a pipe retention wall (14A, 14C, 14D, 141, 14J, 14L), and a bore (31 A, 31C, 3 ID, 311, 31 J, 3 IL) extending axially inwardly from its joining end (33A, 33C, 33D, 331, 33J, 33L) to attach with the outer surface (15A, 15C, 15D, 151, 15L) of the pipe (10A, 10C, 10D, 101, 10J, 10L).

24. The pipe system as claimed in claim 23, wherein the pipe retention wall (14A, 14C) is located at the joining end (33 A, 33C).

25. The pipe system as claimed in claim 23, wherein the pipe retention wall (14D, 14J) and the joining end (33D, 33J) are separated by an extended surface (34D, 34J).

26. The pipe system as claimed in claim 23, wherein the flaring device (30A, 30D, 30L) is made from a polyolefin material, including Polypropylene and polyethylene,and atleast the outer surface (15A, 15D, 15L) of the pipe (10A, 10D, 10L) is made of the same material, facilitating heat fusion between the bore (31 A, 3 ID, 3 IL) and outer surface (15A, 15D, 15L).

27. The pipe system as claimed in claim 26, wherein the polyolefin material used for making the flaring device (30A, 30D, 30L) is reinforced with agents including, but not limited to, glass fibre and carbon fibre to prevent decoupling due to deformation of the pipe retention wall (14A, 14D, 14L) by cold flow.

28. The pipe system as claimed in claim 26, wherein the pipe (10A, 10D, 10L) and the flaring device (30A, 30D, 30L) are manufactured separately, and then bore (31 A, 3 ID, 3 IL) and outer surface (15 A, 15D, 15L) are heat fused together.

29. The pipe system as claimed in claim 26, wherein the flaring device (30A, 30D, 30L) is over-moulded on the outer surface (15A, 15D, 15L) adjacent to the pipe end (13A, 13D, 13L).

30. The pipe system as claimed in claim 23, wherein the pipe (10A, 10D, 10L) and the flaring device (30A, 30D, 30L) are made from the PVC (Poly-vinyl-chloride) and the bore (31 A, 3 ID, 3 IL) and the outer surface (15 A, 15D, 15L) are solvent welded.

31. The pipe system as claimed in claim 23, wherein the pipe (10C) and the flaring device (30C) are both made from any rigid material like metal or PVC (Poly-vinyl chloride) and the bore (31C) and the outer surface (15C) are threadedly attached with each other.

32. The pipe system as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the locking device (80, 80A, 80D, 80E, 80G, 80H, 80K, 80L, 80N, 80P) that is visible from the visibility gap (45, 45A, 45D, 45E, 45G, 45H, 45K, 45L, 45N, 45P) has a colour in contrast with the surfaces of other system components visible within the visibility gap (45, 45A, 45D, 45E, 45G, 45H, 45K, 45L, 45N, 45P).

Images