Hand Tool for Quick Connect Coupling Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools are inadequate for removing quick connect/disconnect couplings from conduits, especially in inaccessible areas and for larger diameters, and fail to handle new slim line style couplings commonly used in the plumbing industry.
Innovation Solution
A hand tool with an arced movable and stationary gripping jaw and pusher jaw design, featuring a linkage system and spring mechanism to securely grip and release the connector, allowing for easy removal of connectors from pipes of various diameters, including larger sizes and slim line styles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual disconnection method is used (pressing release ring simultaneously with pulling conduit), then the connector can be disconnected, but it becomes difficult or impossible when connectors are placed in inaccessible areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a removal tool as an intermediary device that can be inserted through the conduit to reach and actuate the release ring from a distance. The tool includes a pusher portion with a tip that contacts and presses the release ring, while the gripping portion holds the conduit, enabling disconnection of connectors in inaccessible areas without requiring direct manual access to the release ring
Solution Approach 2:
The disconnection process is segmented into two independent functions: gripping the conduit and pressing the release ring. The tool divides these functions into separate portions (gripping portion and pusher portion) that can operate independently but are coordinated through a linkage system, allowing the operator to grip the conduit at one location while the pusher tip actsuates the release ring at a different, inaccessible location
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing removal tools are used, then small connectors can be removed, but they are unable to handle over five eights (5/8") and above diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable and movable components including a movable gripping jaw actuated by a linkage system, and a pusher portion with rotational freedom. The gripping portion can adapt to different conduit diameters through the movable jaw that adjusts its position based on conduit size. The pusher portion can rotate to align with the release ring orientation, enabling the tool to effectively handle connectors of various sizes including those over 5/8" diameter
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed as a universal device that can handle a wide range of connector sizes and types. The gripping portion with adjustable jaw spacing, the rotatable pusher portion, and the flexible linkage system enable the same tool to effectively remove both small connectors and large diameter connectors (over 5/8") as well as slim line style couplings, eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing removal tools are used, then some connectors can be removed, but they are unable to handle new slim line style quick connect/disconnect couplings
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates dynamic and flexible elements including a movable gripping jaw, a rotatable pusher portion, and a flexible linkage system that can accommodate the compact geometry of slim line couplings. The pusher tip can be positioned precisely to contact the release ring on slim line connectors, and the rotatable pusher portion can align with the release ring orientation, enabling effective removal of new slim line style quick connect/disconnect couplings that have different geometries from traditional connectors
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
Enables efficient and easy removal of connectors from pipes of different sizes, including those in tight spaces, ensuring secure grip and even pressure to prevent damage and slippage, while accommodating a range of conduit materials and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
A spring connected to the handles maintains the handles at a maximum separation distance thereby maintaining the first ends of the gripping portion and pusher portion adjacent one another
Implementation Method 2
The gripping surface of the movable gripping jaw, and optionally the stationary gripping, preferably have surfaces that have been roughened by at least one of undulations, pointed rows, multiple randomly placed pyramids, pointed columns, natural or synthetic coatings
Data Source
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AI summary
A tool for the removal of connectors from tubes is disclosed that, in one embodiment, enables the removal of connectors from large tubes and in another embodiment from a size range of tubes. Movable and stationary gripping and pushing elements are affixed to handles to enable a tube to be firmly gripped between a movable gripping jaw and a stationary gripping jaw and the connector prevented from movement by the movable pusher jaw and the stationary pusher jaw. The handles can compress around a pivot point or slide on a bar. in another embodiment the movable and stationary gripping and pushing elements are removable from the body of the tool.