No-Crimp Valve Assembly for Leak-Tight Polymer Pipe Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve assemblies for polymer pipes require crimping or push-to-connect fittings, which are prone to failure due to variations in pipe diameter and roundness, leading to unreliable connections.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with an integral end fitting using a split ferrule and nut connection, which provides a robust and fluid-tight attachment to polymer pipes without crimping, utilizing a serrated split ferrule and tapered surfaces for secure engagement and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If crimping or push-to-connect fittings are used to attach valve assemblies to polymer pipes, then the connection can be made with standard tools, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to variations in pipe outer diameter and roundness deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the sealing mechanism from external crimping to internal compression. The compression fitting assembly uses a compression member that axially compresses the pipe end against a shoulder, creating a seal that is insensitive to variations in pipe outer diameter and roundness. This parameter change in the connection method resolves the contradiction by making the connection reliable while maintaining ease of installation.
2Reliability
If crimping with ring and fitting is used to attach valve assemblies to polymer pipes, then the connection can be made, but special tools and complex procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the sealing function and the mechanical attachment function into a single compression fitting assembly. The compression member simultaneously creates the seal against the pipe end and provides the mechanical attachment through threading to the valve assembly body. This integration eliminates the need for separate crimping tools and procedures, reducing installation complexity while maintaining connection robustness.
3Ease of operation
If push-to-connect fitting is used to attach valve assemblies to polymer pipes, then the installation is simplified, but the connection becomes less robust against pipe diameter variations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a spherical or rounded compression member that contacts the pipe end surface. This curved geometry distributes the compressive force evenly across the pipe end, creating a strong mechanical bond that is insensitive to minor variations in pipe diameter and roundness. The curved contact surface maintains connection strength while preserving installation simplicity.
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 reliable and efficient attachment of valve assemblies to polymer pipes with varying diameters and roundness, ensuring a robust and leak-proof connection using only a wrench, without the need for crimping or special tools.
Implementation Method 1
The split ferrule defines a serrated inner surface which engages the exterior surface of the pipe
Implementation Method 2
The tapered portions of the ferrule engage the tapered portions of the nut and the enlarged outer portion upon tightening the nut to the outer threaded surface
Implementation Method 3
A fluid-tight connection is provided via compression of an annular sealing member, such as one or more O-rings, that tightly seal with the inner wall of the respective pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A no-crimp valve assembly employs a fitting which has an enlarged outer portion and a coaxial inner portion of reduced diameter. An axial groove is formed between the outer portion and the inner portion for receiving the end of a polymer pipe. A nut retainably receives a split ferrule. The split ferrule has a serrated inner surface. The nut is threaded to the outer threaded surface of the outer portion and the ferrule is compressed against the outer surface adjacent the end of the pipe to form a fluid tight connection and the inner surface of the pipe engages the reduced surface of the inner portion. In some embodiments, the inner portion carries one or more sealing rings or has a serrated or stepped inner surface which engages the inside surface of the pipe.