Single Action Push-to-Connect Conduit Fitting Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conduit fittings require multiple actions such as rotation or tightening to achieve a fluid-tight seal and retention, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A single-action push-to-connect fitting assembly that includes a seal device and a retainer, allowing for a conduit to be inserted and sealed with a single axial movement, eliminating the need for subsequent actions like rotation or clamping, using a combination of a body and nut with a seal device and retainer that grip the conduit through axial insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional conduit fittings are used, then a fluid-tight seal and retention can be achieved, but multiple actions such as rotation or tightening are required which makes the operation cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the seal device and retainer into a single integrated fitting assembly that performs both sealing and retention functions simultaneously through one insertion action. The seal device and retainer are positioned to engage the conduit in sequence during a single pushing motion, eliminating the need for separate tightening or rotation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is pre-configured in a retracted position that allows easy insertion of the conduit. After insertion, the retainer automatically moves to its engaged position to lock the conduit in place. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for subsequent tightening actions required by conventional fittings.
2Productivity
If conventional fittings requiring rotation or tightening are used, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting assembly is segmented into distinct functional components (seal device, retainer, body) that are independently designed but work in unison during a single insertion action. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function simultaneously during one operation, significantly reducing assembly time compared to sequential operations in conventional fittings.
3Ease of operation
If a single-action push-to-connect mechanism is used, then ease of operation and assembly speed are improved, but the complexity of the fitting components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed to automatically move from its retracted position to its engaged locking position as the conduit is inserted. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for external actuators, complex control systems, or manual intervention, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining ease of use.
Data Source
AI summary
A single action push to connect fitting for conduit such as tube or pipe. The fitting includes a first fitting component and a second fitting component that are joined or assembled together to form a fitting assembly. The fitting assembly includes a conduit seal device and a conduit retaining device. A conduit may be manually or otherwise inserted into the assembled fitting assembly with a single axial movement and be retained and sealed without need for further action or movement of the fitting components.