Cross Platform Grip Ring Release Tool for Pipe Fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping connection methods, such as soldering and push-fit technologies, are labor-intensive, costly, and lack flexibility for easy assembly and disassembly, leading to increased manufacturing costs and reduced production capability, with fastening rings often being permanently affixed and difficult to remove or reuse.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece release tool with mating threads that applies axial pressure to flex the fastening ring teeth for easy insertion and removal of pipes from fittings, allowing for minute adjustments and enabling the fastening ring to relax back into position for secure re-engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If push-fit technology with fastening rings is used to connect pipes, then assembly is simplified and labor time is reduced, but the fastening rings become permanently affixed and difficult to remove or reuse
Solution Approach 1:
The release tool is divided into two separate pieces: a first piece with external threads and a second piece with internal threads. These segments can be assembled together to form the complete release mechanism, allowing the tool to be stored in a compact state and deployed when needed. The segmented design enables the tool to apply controlled axial pressure to the fastening ring release mechanism without requiring a single complex integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The release tool acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the fastening ring release mechanism. By engaging the release tool with the fastening ring's release feature, the operator can apply axial pressure through the threaded connection to flex the fastening ring teeth and release the pipe connection. This intermediary tool enables controlled disassembly without directly manipulating the fastening ring itself.
2Strength
If traditional soldering methods are used to join pipes, then permanent strong joints are achieved, but the process is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and requires numerous materials
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the thermal field-based soldering process with a mechanical field-based push-fit connection system. Instead of using heat, flux, and solder to create joints, the system uses mechanically actuated fastening rings with teeth that grip the pipe. The release tool applies axial mechanical pressure to flex these teeth and release the connection. This substitution eliminates the need for torches, solder, flux, and extensive preparation while maintaining joint integrity during service.
3Reliability
If fastening rings are permanently affixed in fittings, then secure pipe retention is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase and production capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening ring is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to transition between engaged and disengaged states. The ring's teeth can flex axially inward when release pressure is applied, enabling the pipe to be inserted or removed. When the release pressure is removed, the teeth return to their original position, re-establishing the gripping force. This dynamic behavior allows the same fastening ring to be reused multiple times without replacement, reducing manufacturing costs and improving production capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables recovery and reuse of the fastening ring component. Instead of the fastening ring being permanently affixed and discarded after a single use, the release tool allows the ring to be reset and reused for subsequent pipe connections. This recovering approach eliminates the need to replace fastening rings with each connection, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled.
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 efficient and cost-effective assembly and disassembly of piping systems by allowing for the easy insertion and removal of pipes without damaging the fittings, reducing labor and manufacturing costs, and enabling the reuse of fastening rings, thereby improving production capability and extending the life of piping components.
Implementation Method 1
applying axial pressure to a pipe insertion component so as to flex the teeth of a fastening ring inwardly
Implementation Method 2
The device can then relax the axial pressure on the pipe insertion component, which then allows the fastening ring teeth to relax back into position. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a two-piece device with mating threads that permit the pieces to move toward and away from one another with minute adjustments.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides, in part, a device that can fit around a fitting retention compartment of a pipe fitting, apply axial pressure to a pipe insertion component so as to flex the teeth of a fastening ring inwardly, which permits smooth insertion and removal of piping elements. In embodiments, the device comprises a two-piece device with mating threads that permit the pieces to move toward and away from one another with minute adjustments.