Flow-Thru Plug Repair for Pool Fitting Leaks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Leaking or cracked fittings and pipes in swimming pools and spas require costly and disruptive repairs, involving decking removal and excavation, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A flow-thru plug is adapted with cone-shaped washers to create a watertight seal around the leak, allowing fluid passage and featuring a trim ring and eyeball fitting for a finished appearance, reducing the need for extensive excavation and decking removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional repair methods are used to fix leaking fittings, then the leak is sealed, but the deck must be cut and removed, causing extensive disturbance and high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The repair system is divided into separate functional components: an expansion plug that seals the leak internally, an extension ring that provides structural support, and a trim ring that restores the deck surface. This segmentation allows the leak to be sealed without removing the deck, as each component performs a specific function independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses a nested structure where the expansion plug is inserted into the leaking fitting, the extension ring is placed over the plug and into the fitting, and the trim ring is installed over the extension ring at the deck surface. This nested arrangement allows the repair to be contained within the existing deck structure without requiring deck removal.
2Reliability
If traditional repair methods are used to fix leaking fittings, then the leak is sealed, but the repair cost is very high
Solution Approach 1:
The repair apparatus uses relatively simple, inexpensive components that can be manufactured at low cost: a rubber or plastic expansion plug, a rigid extension ring, and a cosmetic trim ring. These components are designed to be replaced if necessary and provide an affordable alternative to expensive traditional repair methods involving deck removal and refitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion plug is designed to be self-sealing through radial expansion when installed, creating a watertight seal without requiring additional sealing materials or complex installation procedures. This self-service characteristic reduces labor costs and material expenses compared to traditional repair methods.
3Reliability
If the plug is compressed between cone-shaped washers, then a watertight seal is created, but the plug must expand radially which requires precise force application
Solution Approach 1:
The cone-shaped washers provide a curved, tapered surface that naturally directs compressive force into radial expansion of the plug. This geometric design simplifies the compression mechanism by using the wedge effect of the cones to automatically convert axial compression into radial expansion, eliminating the need for complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug material is selected to exhibit elastic or elastomeric properties, allowing it to change shape from a compressed state during installation to an expanded state during service. This parameter change in the material's physical state enables the seal to form automatically when the cones are tightened, without requiring additional sealing 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
The solution provides a cost-effective and minimally invasive method to repair leaks, maintaining the deck's appearance and reducing disturbance, by creating a watertight seal with radial expansion of the plug and using sealant for a secure installation.
Implementation Method 1
a flow-thru plug is adapted with cone-shaped washers to create a watertight seal around the leak
Implementation Method 2
The center tube of the apparatus then allows fluid to pass thru the apparatus
Implementation Method 3
the flow-thru plug is compressed between two cone-shaped washers that create a watertight seal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for repairing a fluid leak, thru a crack within the body of a pool return fitting, or in a pipe of close proximity to a pool return fitting, wherein an apparatus comprising of a cylindrical flow-thru elongated rubber plug, wherein a tube thru the center of the rubber plug is retained at one end by a flare in said tube or a locking nut over a uniquely shaped washer, and threaded on the other end, secured by a locking nut over a unique washer. in its compressed state, the rubber plug radially expands within the return line pipe and against a rubber extension ring inserted into the pool return fitting, sealing any leak occurring between the pool return fitting escutcheon and the return line pipe, wherein fluid may still pass thru the center tube. A trim ring is fitted around the locking nut of the threaded end tube, secured in place by a return eyeball, wherein the return eyeball is threaded female internally.