Pipe Fitting Compression Mechanism for Tool-Free Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings require burdensome and time-consuming tools for assembly or rely on adhesive compounds that take time to set, making the connection process inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A fitting design featuring a housing with an insert member and a retention member that is pivotally coupled to securely engage the pipe, allowing for quick and tool-free connection by applying pressure to the pipe, and optionally using sealing members for a secure seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamp is used to fasten the pipe against the barb, then a sealed connection is formed, but the assembly process becomes burdensome and time-consuming requiring tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical clamp system with a compression fitting system that uses a ferrule and compression mechanism. The ferrule is compressed onto the pipe by a fitting body, eliminating the need for separate clamps and tools while maintaining reliable sealing through the compression action on the ferrule and pipe interface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sealing function from the clamp system and integrates it into the fitting body through the ferrule mechanism. The ferrule is specifically designed to be compressed onto the pipe to create the seal, separating the sealing function from the mechanical fastening function and enabling tool-free assembly
2Reliability
If a sealant or adhesive compound is used to bond the barb, then sealing is achieved, but time is required for the compound to set
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical sealing methods (sealants and adhesives) with a mechanical compression system. The ferrule is compressed onto the pipe through the fitting body, creating an immediate mechanical seal that does not require chemical compounds or setting time, thus eliminating the time delay associated with adhesive curing
Solution Approach 2:
The compression fitting system is self-contained and self-actuating. The fitting body itself provides the compression force needed to seal the connection through its design, eliminating the need for external tools or chemical compounds. The system serves its own sealing function through the mechanical compression of the ferrule
3Reliability
If a retention member applies pressure to the pipe, then secure connection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the retention function into the fitting body itself. The fitting body is designed with an integrated compression mechanism that applies pressure to the ferrule and pipe, eliminating the need for separate retention members. This integration maintains connection security while minimizing device complexity by combining multiple functions into a single component
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 design enables rapid, secure, and tool-free connection of pipe fittings, reducing assembly time and eliminating the need for adhesive compounds, while providing a reliable seal.
Implementation Method 1
apply pressure against at least part of the end portion of the pipe to help frictionally secure the fitting to the end portion of the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting connectable to an end portion of a pipe generally includes a housing configured for receiving at least part of the end portion of the pipe into the housing, and an insert member disposed at least partly within the housing. The insert member is configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe when at least part of the end portion of the pipe is received into the housing. A retention member is movable relative to the housing for selectively connecting the fitting to the end portion of the pipe. The retention member is movable to press at least part of the end portion of the pipe against at least part of the insert member to help secure the fitting to the end portion of the pipe when the end portion of the pipe is received into the housing.