Push-to-Connect Fitting with Segmented Locking and Reusable Grip Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-to-connect fitting technologies for piping systems are inefficient in reusing fittings without damage and managing multiple wires or cables, particularly in electrical environments, and often fail to meet code requirements, requiring extensive molding and time-consuming assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect fitting device and method that employs a center body with radial tube stops, head connectors with packing arrangements including sealing rings, spacer glands, and grip rings, allowing for underside loading and secure connection via gluing or ultrasonic welding, along with a lockable release pusher for easy insertion and removal of piping elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded engagement or basic attachment methods are used to secure conduits in electrical boxes, then the installation process is simpler, but the connection reliability and code compliance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit fitting is divided into multiple functional segments: a body portion for insertion, a collar for engagement, and a locking mechanism with movable elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting incorporates movable locking elements that can transition between engaged and disengaged states. These dynamic components provide secure connection when engaged while allowing easy installation and removal, resolving the contradiction between reliability and operational simplicity.
2Productivity
If push-fit technology is used to reduce soldering requirements, then the installation time and skill requirement are reduced, but the reusability of fittings is compromised due to potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting includes a release mechanism that allows the conduit to be easily removed from the fitting body. This self-service feature enables repeated installation and removal cycles without damaging the fitting components, maintaining reusability while preserving the speed advantages of push-fit technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the conduit to be recovered (removed and reused) from the fitting without compromising the fitting itself. The locking mechanism is designed to release cleanly, enabling both the conduit and fitting to be reused multiple times, addressing the reusability concern while maintaining installation efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate fittings are used to manage multiple wires and cables, then each connection can be optimized, but the overall device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting body is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple conduits of different types and sizes. The locking mechanism and sealing elements are configured to work with various conduit configurations, providing multi-wire management capability within a single integrated component rather than requiring multiple separate fittings.
4Manufacturing precision
If traditional molding processes are used for producing conduit fittings, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but production time increases due to the need for multiple molds
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting design integrates multiple features (body, collar, locking elements, sealing surfaces) into a single molded component. This merging of functions into one piece eliminates the need for multiple separate molding operations and assemblies, reducing production cycle time while maintaining manufacturing precision through modern injection molding techniques.
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
Facilitates the reuse of fittings without damage, manages multiple connections efficiently, meets code requirements, and reduces production time by eliminating the need for multiple molds, while enabling secure and efficient connection of piping elements in various fluid flow environments.
Implementation Method 1
a sealing ring, compressed against the tube under axial load to provide a fluid-tight seal
Implementation Method 2
a grip ring, engaging with the tube to prevent axial movement
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Embodiments of an integrated piping conduit in accordance with the present disclosure include a device having a center body with an interior surface having a tube stop extending radially inwardly thereof, one or more head connectors, and a packing arrangement comprising at least one sealing ring, a spacer gland and a grip ring maintained within a radial housing compartment of the one or more head connectors. The packing arrangement can further include a retainer ring. In various embodiments, each head connector is secured to the center body through gluing or ultrasonic welding.