Hybrid Push-to-Connect Fitting Resists Rotational Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Push-fit technologies in piping systems lack a mechanism to prevent rotation of fittings about inserted tubing elements, which is crucial for stability, strength, and durability, especially with materials like stainless steel and copper.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid push-to-connect fitting with a nut connector assembly, sealing rings, and a fastening ring with prolated ear members, along with a release pusher, is designed to resist rotational torque and securely hold the fitting in place, using a nut connector and chamfered lock washer to maintain the fastening ring and prevent rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If push-fit technology is used to simplify piping connections, then ease of operation and reduction of materials are improved, but the ability to prevent rotation of fittings is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is segmented into distinct functional components: a push-fit body for connection, a separate nut connector assembly for rotation prevention, and a fastening ring with teeth for grip. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the push-fit connection mechanism with a nut connector assembly into a single hybrid fitting device. The nut connector threads onto the fitting body and secures the fastening ring, combining the simplicity of push-fit with the rotational stability of threaded connections.
2Strength
If traditional soldering is used to ensure strong joints, then strength and reliability are improved, but time consumption and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal field (soldering torch heat) with a mechanical field (threaded nut connector and fastening ring teeth). The mechanical engagement of the nut connector threads and the fastening ring teeth biting into the tube provides joint strength equivalent to soldering without requiring heat or lengthy procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the connection parameter from thermal bonding (soldering temperature and time) to mechanical engagement (thread pitch, tooth geometry, and clamping force). This parameter change enables rapid connection while maintaining joint strength through the mechanical interlocking of the nut connector and fastening ring.
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 effectively prevents rotation of the fitting about the inserted tube, ensuring stability and strength, while allowing for easy connection and disconnection of piping elements, reducing the need for welding or soldering and minimizing material usage.
Implementation Method 1
The fastening ring device is employed to provide opposing energy, preventing the device from disconnection while creating a positive seal
Implementation Method 2
A hybrid push-to-connect fitting with a nut connector assembly, sealing rings, and a fastening ring with prolated ear members, along with a release pusher, is designed to resist rotational torque and securely hold the fitting in place
Implementation Method 3
The fastening ring device is employed to provide opposing energy, preventing the device from disconnection while creating a positive seal
Data Source
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AI summary
A fitting body having an interior surface is provided with a tube stop extending radially inwardly thereof, and one or more nut connector assemblies provided as part of a packing arrangement comprising at least one sealing ring, a spacer gland and a fastening ring. The packing arrangement can further include a release pusher positioned on the radially inward side of the nut connector, wherein the release pusher is capable of axial insertion into the cavity of the head connector in order to lift teeth of the grip ring radially outwardly to permit insertion and removal of tubes to be connected via the center body.