Compression Fitting Locking Projection for Single-Tool Tightening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings require multiple wrenches for tightening, which can be difficult due to excessive torque and limited space, making the process cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A compression fitting with a locking projection and a fastener assembly that includes a threaded nut, where the locking projection prevents nut rotation, allowing easy tightening with a power tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe fittings are tightened using two wrenches, then the connection is secured, but the process becomes difficult due to excessive torque and limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into a stationary body and a rotatable segment containing the fastener. The rotatable segment can be independently rotated to apply tightening force, while the stationary body remains fixed. This segmentation allows a single tool to effectively apply torque without requiring two wrenches, resolving the contradiction between connection security and tightening ease.
Solution Approach 2:
A grip ring is introduced as an intermediary component between the tool and the fitting. The grip ring provides a secure engagement point for the tool, allowing effective torque application. This intermediary enables single-tool operation while maintaining the reliability of the connection, as the grip ring ensures proper force transmission during tightening.
2Reliability
If multiple wrenches are used to tighten fasteners, then the fastening is achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome due to limited space surrounding the fitting
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the fitting into stationary and rotatable segments, the invention enables single-tool operation. The rotatable segment acts as a built-in intermediary that allows the tool to access and tighten the fastener without requiring a second wrench, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining fastening reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The need for a second wrench is extracted from the tightening process. The rotatable segment design inherently provides the mechanical advantage previously requiring a second tool, allowing the second wrench to be completely removed from the process while still achieving reliable fastening in limited spaces.
3Ease of manufacture
If the nut is allowed to rotate during tightening, then the fastener can be tightened, but the locking projection cannot effectively prohibit rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking projection is designed with specific geometric features that engage with corresponding features on the nut at critical locations. This local quality enhancement ensures that rotation is prohibited only when necessary (during tightening), while still allowing the fastener to be properly tightened. The selective engagement resolves the contradiction between locking effectiveness and fastener tightening capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy and secure connection of piping components using a single tool, ensuring proper engagement and reducing the complexity of the tightening process.
Implementation Method 1
a threaded fastener rotationally engaging the threaded nut
Implementation Method 2
threaded fastener rotationally engaging the threaded nut
Implementation Method 3
the locking projection contacts the threaded nut to prohibit rotation of the threaded nut
Implementation Method 4
the first end of the fitting body contacts and stops against the second end of the fitting body
Data Source
AI summary
A compression fitting includes a first fitting segment defining a first arcuate central section, a first retention rib extending radially inward from the first arcuate central section; a second fitting segment defining a second arcuate central section, a second retention rib ending radially inward from the second arcuate central section; and a grip ring defining a first ring end and a second ring end, wherein a split is defined between the first ring end and the second ring end, and wherein the first ring end engages the first retention rib and the second ring end engages the second retention rib.