Push-to-Connect Fitting with Roll-Formed Double-Crested Gripper Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional push-to-connect fittings face challenges in accurately and cost-effectively forming gripper teeth, with machined teeth being time-consuming and expensive to produce, and tapped threads requiring tight tolerances and potential debris, which can hinder o-ring sealing.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect fitting with a roll-formed thread having a double-crested profile, where each turn of the thread provides two points of engagement, formed using a roll-forming tap to reduce production costs and prevent debris, enhancing the grip and sealing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If machined teeth are used for gripping tubing, then the grip strength is improved, but the manufacturing time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the manufacturing method from machining (subtractive) to roll-forming (plastic deformation), fundamentally altering the production parameter. This allows the same gripping function to be achieved with a different process that is faster and more cost-effective while maintaining the necessary tooth geometry and sharpness
2Strength
If machined teeth are used for gripping tubing, then the grip strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from expensive machining operations to more economical roll-forming processes, changing the manufacturing parameter to reduce cost while preserving the essential gripping functionality and tooth geometry
3Ease of manufacture
If tapped threads are used instead of machined teeth, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but debris may remain in the fitting preventing proper sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts or removes the harmful byproduct (debris) from the manufacturing process by using roll-forming instead of tapping. The roll-forming process deforms material in place without generating loose chips or debris that could contaminate the fitting and compromise the seal
4Strength
If tapped threads are used instead of machined teeth, then the grip is increased through multiple engaging elements, but the tolerance requirements become tighter and manufacturing more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the forming mechanism from cutting (tapping) to plastic deformation (roll-forming), which is more tolerant to variations in material properties and dimensional tolerances. Roll-forming can accommodate a wider range of tolerances while still producing functional gripping teeth, reducing the stringency of precision requirements
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 roll-formed thread provides a secure grip and improved sealing by resisting tube withdrawal and ensuring proper o-ring engagement, reducing production complexity and costs while maintaining high precision.
Implementation Method 1
a roll-formed thread having a double-crested profile... formed using a roll-forming tap
Data Source
AI summary
A push to connect fitting which includes a body portion and a tubular collet at least partially disposed within the body portion, wherein a section of tubing is receivable within the collet. A thread is formed on an inner periphery of the collet, wherein each turn of the thread provides two points of engagement along the longitudinal dimension of the section of tubing.