Conduit Fitting Retaining Structure with Interlocking Projections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit fitting technologies face challenges in securely retaining conduit gripping devices during assembly and disassembly, leading to issues with axial withdrawal and fluid tight connections.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge design where conduit gripping devices are retained with a fitting component as a discontinuous unit, using projections and camming surfaces to interlock and prevent axial withdrawal, allowing for secure assembly and subsequent disassembly by modifying the interengagement of these projections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conduit gripping devices are retained with fitting components using traditional methods, then assembly is simple, but axial withdrawal occurs and retention is insecure
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit gripping device is nested within the fitting component, with the gripping device received inside the fitting body. The interlocking projections are positioned such that one projection is received within a corresponding feature of the other projection, creating a nested configuration that prevents axial withdrawal while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining structure is segmented into multiple independent features: a first projection extending from the fitting component, a second projection extending from the conduit gripping device, and a third projection. This segmentation allows each projection to perform a specific function in the interlocking mechanism, providing secure retention while allowing for controlled disassembly.
2Reliability
If projections are used to interlock fitting components and conduit gripping devices, then axial withdrawal is prevented, but disassembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining structure transitions from a static interlocked state during assembly to a dynamic state during disassembly. The third projection is configured to engage with either the first or second projection during disassembly, allowing the interlocking mechanism to dynamically change its engagement state. This enables controlled disassembly while maintaining secure retention during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The third projection acts as a sacrificial or temporary engagement feature that facilitates disassembly. During normal operation, the third projection may not be engaged, but during disassembly it engages with the first or second projection to enable controlled separation. After disassembly, the projections can be recovered and reused in subsequent assemblies.
3Reliability
If conduit gripping devices are securely retained during assembly, then fluid tight connections are achieved, but maintenance becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining structure allows for dynamic control of the interlocking state. During assembly, the projections are engaged to provide secure retention and ensure fluid tight connections. During maintenance, the third projection engages to facilitate controlled disengagement, allowing the system to transition between secured and maintained states without requiring complete disassembly of the entire fitting.
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit fitting preassembly includes an annular fitting component and at least a first conduit gripping device. The annular fitting component has an interior wall extending axially from a forward end to a rearward end, and a first projection extending radially inward from the interior wall. The first conduit gripping device is received within the annular fitting component and includes a second projection extending radially outward of an outer surface of the first conduit gripping device. The first projection includes an outward tapered rear surface and the second projection includes an inward tapered front surface. The rear surface of the first projection is radially aligned with the front surface of the second projection, such that when the first conduit gripping device is in a forward-most position, the first projection interlocks with the second projection to prevent axial withdrawal of the first conduit gripping device from the annular fitting component.