Pipe Crimp Fitting With Anti-Deformation Grip for PVC Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crimping fittings for connecting c-PVC and PVC-U pipes fail to provide a reliable connection without deforming the brittle material, and solvent cement connections are being phased out due to regulatory changes.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical fitting that uses friction instead of compression to connect pipes, featuring a crimping ring with a deformable ear and anti-deformation arrangements to prevent pipe deformation, utilizing friction surfaces and axial slots to maintain the pipe without altering its shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compression deformation is used to connect c-PVC pipes, then connection reliability is improved, but pipe material integrity deteriorates due to brittleness
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of deforming the pipe to achieve connection, the invention inverts the approach by deforming the fitting body to embrace the pipe. The fitting body is designed to deform radially inward to grip the pipe surface, while the pipe itself remains undeformed, thus maintaining its structural integrity while achieving reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters of the fitting body to enable controlled deformation. The fitting body uses a thermoplastic material with specific flow characteristics that allow it to deform under compression and then maintain its deformed shape, providing continuous gripping force on the pipe without requiring the pipe material to deform.
2Strength
If full deformation crimping is applied to ensure secure connection, then connection strength is improved, but pipe ovality and deformation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by creating localized deformation zones within the fitting body rather than uniform deformation. The fitting body incorporates specific structural features like recesses and protrusions that concentrate deformation in controlled areas, allowing the fitting to grip the pipe securely while minimizing overall pipe deformation and ovality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the deformation approach by making the fitting body deformable rather than the pipe. The fitting body is designed with controlled deformation zones that allow it to adapt to the pipe shape and provide secure grip, while the pipe maintains its original circular cross-section and structural integrity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional press fittings are used on c-PVC pipes, then installation simplicity is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates due to material fragility
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material parameters of the fitting body to match the properties of c-PVC pipes. By using thermoplastic materials with similar thermal expansion coefficients and deformation characteristics, the fitting maintains reliable connection under varying temperature and pressure conditions without compromising the fragile c-PVC pipe material.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the traditional approach by making the fitting body the deformable element rather than the pipe. This allows the fitting to adapt to the pipe dimensions and provide secure mechanical interlocking, achieving reliable connection while maintaining the simplicity of the installation process.
4Strength
If solvent cement connection is used to avoid deformation, then pipe integrity is improved, but environmental compliance deteriorates due to solvent regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of solvent cement with a mechanical bonding mechanism. The fitting body deforms to create friction-based mechanical interlocking with the pipe, eliminating the need for solvent chemicals while maintaining connection strength and pipe integrity. This mechanical approach complies with environmental regulations by eliminating harmful solvent emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a mechanical intermediary (the deformable fitting body) that transfers and distributes forces between the pipe and connection point. This mechanical mediator replaces the chemical intermediary (solvent) used in traditional cement connections, providing an environmentally compliant alternative that maintains pipe integrity through mechanical rather than chemical bonding.
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 fitting ensures a secure connection with minimal pipe deformation, maintaining the pipe's integrity and preventing leakage under pressure, while avoiding the need for solvents.
Implementation Method 1
the crimping ear being deformable to close the crimping ring over the pipe during the crimping process
Implementation Method 2
The compression is essentially a pressure on the fitting sleeve—also referred to as a press sleeve—which causes the deformation or shaping of the fitting to the pipe
Implementation Method 3
The present invention proposes a mechanical fitting designed to use friction instead of compression for ensuring a connection between the mechanical fitting and a pipe inserted therein
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention proposes a mechanical fitting for connecting pipes or for attaching a pipe. The fitting comprises a main fitting body extending axially between a body end and an open end defining an insertion space for a pipe, designed to close over a pipe, a crimping ring mounted over the main fitting body for tightening the main fitting body over the pipe. The crimping ring comprises a ring body in a form of an open ring connected by a crimping ear projecting radially outwardly from the ring body, the crimping ear being deformable to close the crimping ring over the pipe during the crimping process. The mechanical fitting has an anti-deformation arrangement for preventing deformation of the pipe inserted therein during crimping. A method of assembly is further proposed