Power Tool Crimping Accessory for Tight-Space Pipe Couplings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual crimping and/or pinching of coupling or connection rings for piping and/or tubing and/or fittings is time-consuming and fatiguing, and requires a large force that is difficult to apply, especially in tight spaces, while using a dedicated power tool can be heavy and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A crimping and/or pinching accessory for rotary power tools that includes a rod, jaws, and a trunnion system to automate the crimping process, converting rotational force into clamping force for secure couplings, reducing user fatigue and space constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual crimping and pinching is used, then user control and simplicity are maintained, but the process is time-consuming and requires large force that is difficult to apply in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical crimping system with an automated power tool-driven system. The rotary power tool rotates the rod, which through the trunnion mechanism converts rotational motion into linear motion to actuate the jaws, eliminating the need for manual force application while significantly increasing crimping speed and reducing user fatigue
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic motion conversion through the trunnion mechanism. The rod rotates dynamically during operation, and the trunnion converts this rotational dynamics into linear reciprocating motion of the jaws, enabling automated crimping without manual intervention while maintaining control over the crimping force
2Extent of automation
If a dedicated power tool is used, then automated crimping and sufficient coupling force are achieved, but the tool becomes heavy and cumbersome for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where an existing rotary power tool (drill, driver, impact driver) is used for both its original drilling/driving function and for crimping operations. The accessory attachment provides the crimping functionality, allowing one power tool to serve multiple purposes without requiring a dedicated heavy crimping tool
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the crimping function from the power tool itself by using a separate accessory attachment. The power tool provides rotational power, while the accessory contains the crimping mechanism (jaws, trunnion, rod), allowing the user to leverage existing lightweight power tools for crimping operations
3Extent of automation
If a dedicated power tool is used, then automated crimping is achieved, but the tool has difficulty accessing piping in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing compact rotary power tools to perform crimping operations, allowing access to tight spaces where larger dedicated crimping tools cannot reach. The accessory attachment is designed to work with standard-sized power tools that can maneuver in confined areas
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory attachment serves as an intermediary between the rotary power tool and the workpiece. It adapts the rotational output of the power tool into the linear crimping motion needed, while maintaining a compact profile that can access tight spaces where piping connections are made
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 solution effectively addresses the technical problem by facilitating the automated crimping and pinching process, reducing user fatigue, and enabling secure, leak-proof couplings in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a first cam follower coupled to the trunnion and configured to engage the first cam surface to cause the first jaw to pivot relative to the second jaw
Implementation Method 2
the rod includes a threaded portion and the trunnion includes a threaded opening formed in an intermediate portion of the trunnion
Implementation Method 3
a first lever arm having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion pivotally coupled to the rod via a second cross bar
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A crimping tool includes a jaw assembly including a first and second jaws, each with a working portion. The jaw assembly is moveable between an open position where the first and second working portions are apart to receive a crimping ring, and a closed position where the first and second working portions apply a crimping force to the crimping ring. A ring support adjacent the first jaw includes first and second legs movable relative to the first jaw between a holding position with the jaw assembly in the open position and a crimping position with the jaw assembly in the closed position. In the holding position, the legs may hold a crimping ring while sliding it along the tube or pipe. In the crimping position, the legs may move to the crimping position to allow the jaws to crimp the crimping ring about the pipe or tube.