Insertion Release Tool for Pipe Fittings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fitting arrangements often cause damage to pipes due to scratches from the teeth of the grip ring during insertion and removal, and existing tools are complex or inefficient for handling push connections.
Innovation Solution
A combined insertion and release tool with first and second engagement means, a handle, and actuation means that allows the pipe to be inserted and removed without the grip ring teeth touching the pipe, using a deformable main body with splits and springs to facilitate easy handling and prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the teeth of the grip ring engage the pipe during insertion and removal, then the pipe can be retained and manipulated, but the pipe surface is scratched and damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a release tool as an intermediary device that mediates between the user and the pipe fitting arrangement. The tool includes a pusher element that contacts the pipe end rather than the grip ring teeth, and a release element that actuates the grip ring to disengage from the pipe. This intermediary mechanism allows pipe retention during normal operation while preventing direct contact between teeth and pipe during removal, thus avoiding surface damage.
2Strength
If a release tool is provided with a rigid main body and fixed projection, then the tool structure is simple and strong, but the tool cannot adapt to different pipe fitting arrangements and is difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the rigid main body into a dynamic structure with a deformable material that allows the projection to change its shape and position. The main body can be compressed to deform the projection, enabling it to adapt to different pipe fitting arrangements. This dynamic characteristic allows the same tool to accommodate various fitting sizes and configurations while maintaining structural strength through the elastomeric material properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the main body material from rigid to elastomeric, allowing it to undergo reversible deformation. The projection's position, shape, and stiffness can be dynamically adjusted by compressing the main body, enabling the tool to adapt to different pipe fitting arrangements while maintaining sufficient strength for operation.
3Device complexity
If the release tool requires precise alignment and manual manipulation, then the tool can be simple in structure, but the operation becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-alignment mechanisms where the deformable projection automatically positions itself during insertion into the housing. The elastomeric material allows the projection to conform to the housing features and self-center, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment. The spring element provides automatic return to the initial position after actuation, reducing manual manipulation steps and improving installation efficiency.
4Ease of manufacture
If the projection is made rigid and fixed, then the tool is easy to manufacture, but the tool cannot adapt to different pipe fitting arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the projection from rigid to elastomeric, allowing it to undergo reversible deformation. This enables the same projection structure to adapt to different pipe fitting arrangements by changing its shape and position during use, while the overall tool structure remains simple and easy to manufacture as a single-piece molded 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 tool ensures the pipe is inserted and removed without damage, reducing user effort and maintaining a fluid-tight connection, with a simple and easy-to-handle design that adapts to different pipe fitting arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring means arranged between the first engagement means and the second engagement means for urging the first engagement means away from the housing
Implementation Method 2
The main body is provided with an elastomeric material allowing the projection to be deformable
Data Source
AI summary
A tool (20) for a pipe fitting arrangement in which a pipe is retainable arranged within a housing (1) by teeth (13) of a grip ring (12) placed within the housing, the tool comprising: first engagement means for engaging the pipe, said first engagement means having at least one part (12) adapted to enter the housing around the pipe in order to force the teeth of the grip ring out of engagement with the pipe, second engagement means for engaging the first engagement means as well as the housing in order to locate the housing relative to the tool, and a handle connected or connectable with the second engagement means. The first engagement means being connected to the second engagement means via at least one first joint being in form of a pivot (24f) and/or at least one first spring means (38) in order to be at least partly displaceable relative to the second engagement means, and a method using such a tool.