Reciprocating Pipe Fitting Tool for Thread-Safe Loosening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pipe fitting tools struggle to efficiently loosen threaded pipe connections without damaging the interior threading or requiring multiple tools for different tasks.

Innovation Solution

A pipe fitting tool with a motor-driven reciprocating member and a holdback assembly that clamps and rotates the pipe sections using a loosening mechanism, allowing for efficient loosening and repositioning of pipes while maintaining interior threading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing pipe fitting tools are used to loosen threaded pipe connections, then the pipe connections can be loosened, but the interior threading may be damaged or multiple tools are required for different tasks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegrity of interior threadingVSAvoidefficiency of loosening operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tool separates the pipe into two distinct gripping zones: the holdback assembly grips the second pipe section to prevent rotation, while the loosening mechanism grips only the first pipe section to rotate it. This segmentation allows selective engagement that prevents damage to the threaded connection interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holdback assembly acts as an intermediary that anchors the second pipe section, enabling the loosening mechanism to rotate the first pipe section without requiring direct gripping of the threaded interface. This intermediary grip protects the threading from damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single pipe fitting tool is designed to handle multiple tasks, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to loosen and reposition pipesVSAvoidnumber of components in tool
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool integrates two distinct functions into a single device: the holdback assembly clamps and holds the second pipe section, while the loosening mechanism clamps and rotates the first pipe section. This multi-functionality allows the tool to both loosen and reposition pipes without requiring separate tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool merges the holdback function and the loosening function into a single integrated device with a common motor and housing, reducing the need for multiple separate tools while managing complexity through unified design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If manual methods are used to loosen pipe connections, then tool complexity is reduced, but productivity and efficiency decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of loosening operationVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool replaces manual mechanical loosening methods with an electric motor that drives the loosening mechanism. The motor provides automated rotational force to loosen pipe connections, significantly increasing productivity compared to manual methods.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The loosening mechanism uses a reciprocating member that moves back and forth in response to motor activation, creating periodic clamping and rotating actions that efficiently loosen threaded pipe connections through repeated mechanical cycles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 effectively loosens pipe connections while preserving the integrity of the interior threading, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the need for multiple tools.

Implementation Method 1

a lead screw configured to rotate in response to receiving torque from the motor, a carriage configured to move along the lead screw between a first position and a second position in response to rotation of the lead screw

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLead screw mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 2

a motor, a lead screw configured to rotate in response to receiving torque from the motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric motor:

Implementation Method 3

a battery removably coupled to the housing. The battery is configured to provide power to the motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBattery: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentEP4178755B1Pipe fitting tool
Publication Date: 2025.09.03 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • EP4178755B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4178755B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4178755B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A pipe fitting tool configured to loosen a first section of pipe with respect to a second section of pipe. The pipe fitting tool includes a motor, a reciprocating member that reciprocates in response to activation of the motor, a holdback assembly configured to clamp and hold the second section of pipe, and a loosening mechanism configured to clamp and rotate the first section of pipe with respect to the second section of pipe in response to a first linear motion of the reciprocating member, and to release the first section of pipe in response to a second linear motion of the reciprocating member, the second linear motion being in a direction opposite the first linear motion.