Conduit Fitting Projection Retention Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit fitting technologies face challenges in securely retaining conduit gripping devices during assembly and disassembly, particularly in ensuring reliable fluid tight connections and easy removal of these devices without damaging the fitting components.
Innovation Solution
The development of a preassembly for conduit fittings that includes an annular fitting component with a conduit gripping device, where the gripping device is retained through a projection that is plastically deformable and radially inwardly hinged, allowing for secure capture and easy removal by adjusting its angle between 30° and 180° relative to the central axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conduit gripping device is securely retained within the fitting component, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of removal of the gripping device deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The projection is designed to change its orientation dynamically during the removal process. It transitions from an initial angle (e.g., 30-60°) where it is captured between radial walls to a final angle (e.g., 150-180°) where it clears the radial walls, allowing the gripping device to be removed. This dynamic reconfiguration enables both secure retention during assembly and easy removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection's angular parameter is changed during removal. By applying force to rotate the projection from its captured position to a released position, the geometric parameter (angle) changes, transforming the retention state from engaged to disengaged. This parameter change allows the same structure to provide both secure holding and easy release.
2Ease of manufacture
If a projection structure is used to retain the conduit gripping device, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring the retention state worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates visual indicators (such as colored bands or markings on the projection or fitting component) that change appearance or position based on the retention state. When the projection is in the captured position, the indicator shows one state; when rotated to the released position, the indicator shows another state, making the retention status easily detectable without complex measurement tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the projection is designed to extend at multiple angles, then the versatility of the retaining mechanism is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones defined by the radial walls at different positions along the projection's path. The projection moves through these segmented zones (captured zone between radial walls, transition zone, released zone) as it rotates. This segmentation allows the same simple projection structure to achieve multiple retention states without adding complex mechanisms.
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
This solution ensures secure retention of conduit gripping devices during assembly, maintains a fluid-tight seal, and facilitates easy removal without damaging the fitting components, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of conduit fitting operations.
Implementation Method 1
The projection is plastically deformable about a radially inward hinge portion of the projection
Data Source
AI summary
A preassembly for a conduit fitting includes an annular fitting component and a conduit gripping device. The annular fitting component has an interior wall extending along a central axis from an inboard end to an outboard end. The interior wall includes an inboard surface having a first diameter, an outboard surface having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and an intermediate surface recessed from the inboard surface by an outward facing inboard radial wall and recessed from the outboard surface by an inward facing outboard radial wall. The conduit gripping device is retained within the annular fitting component and includes a projection extending radially outward of an outer circumferential surface of the conduit gripping device, and axially toward an inboard end of the conduit gripping device, with an end portion of the projection being axially captured between the inboard radial wall and the outboard radial wall.