Pipe Crimp Fitting With Anti-Deformation Support 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

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If compression deformation is used to connect c-PVC pipes, then a secure connection is achieved, but the brittle pipe material deforms and loses integrity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidpipe integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The fitting is divided into two functional parts: a compression ring for creating the secure connection and a separate anti-deformation arrangement (reinforcing element) for maintaining pipe integrity. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The anti-deformation arrangement acts as an intermediary element between the compression ring and the pipe. It mediates the compression force, distributing it in a way that secures the connection while preventing direct deformation of the brittle c-PVC pipe material.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If solvent cement connection is used, then a reliable connection is achieved, but regulatory restrictions prohibit its use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidregulatory compliance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of solvent cement with a mechanical connection system. The compression ring creates a secure mechanical interlock with the pipe, eliminating the need for solvents and associated regulatory restrictions while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If the fitting is tightened over the pipe, then a secure connection is achieved, but the pipe cross-section deforms and flow is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidflow cross-section
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The anti-deformation arrangement serves as a mediator that allows the fitting to be tightened securely while preventing deformation of the pipe's flow cross-section. It transmits the tightening force in a controlled manner that secures the connection without compressing the pipe walls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The compression force is applied locally at the connection interface rather than uniformly around the entire pipe circumference. This localized application secures the fitting while leaving the pipe's flow cross-section undeformed and intact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 flow cross-section while withstanding operational pressures and pull-out forces, replacing the need for solvent cement.

Implementation Method 1

the crimping ear being deformable to close the crimping ring over the pipe during the crimping process

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

The pressure is usually applied to the fitting using a press jaw acting as a compression tool. These press jaws apply radial pressure to the fitting material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP4575295A1Mechanical fittings
Publication Date: 2025.06.25 ALIAXIS R&D SAS
  • EP4575295A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4575295A1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4575295A1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The present invention proposes a mechanical fitting for connecting pipes or for attaching a pipe. The fitting comprises a main fitting body (10, 210, 310) extending axially between a body end and an open end (11) defining an insertion space for a pipe, designed to close over a pipe, a crimping ring (30) mounted over the main fitting body for tightening the main fitting body over the pipe. The crimping ring (30) comprises a ring body (31) in a form of an open ring connected by a crimping ear (36) projecting radially outwardly from the ring body (31), the crimping ear (36) 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