Push-to-Connect Joint Assembly for Reusable Piping Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping connection methods are labor-intensive, costly, and lack the ability to reconnect or repair piping systems without damaging components, especially when dealing with unlike materials, and do not allow for the reuse of fittings or valves.
Innovation Solution
A push-fit piping joint assembly using a one-piece retaining ring and release pusher that creates a leak-free seal without tools, clamps, or solder, enabling connection of like and unlike materials without coining or threading, and allowing for the easy removal and reinstallation of piping elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional soldering or welding methods are used to connect piping, then strong and reliable connections are achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive, time-consuming, and requires multiple materials and tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal field system (soldering/welding with torches and heat) with a mechanical field system (push-fit connections using fastening rings and collet mechanisms). This substitution eliminates the need for heat sources, flux, and solder materials while achieving reliable connections through mechanical interlocking and sealing, thereby dramatically improving installation efficiency without sacrificing connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the complex thermal processing steps (torch ignition, heating, solder application, cooling) from the connection process, retaining only the essential mechanical insertion action. By taking out the unnecessary thermal field operations, the connection process is simplified to a single push-action while maintaining connection reliability through the fastening ring mechanism
2Productivity
If push-fit technology with fastening rings is used to simplify connections, then installation becomes faster and easier, but the fittings cannot be disconnected or reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the fastening ring's engagement state changeable. The fastening ring can transition from an engaged state (holding the pipe securely) to a disengaged state (allowing pipe removal) through the application of external force to the release pusher. This dynamic capability enables both easy installation and subsequent repair/reconnection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a release pusher as an intermediary component that mediates between the user's disconnection request and the fastening ring's engagement mechanism. By pushing the release pusher, force is transmitted to the fastening ring to release its grip on the pipe, enabling controlled disconnection without damaging the fitting or pipe while maintaining installation efficiency
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fittings are used to connect unlike materials, then material compatibility is achieved, but specialized fittings are required and components cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized push-fit fitting body with a universal fastening ring mechanism that can accommodate pipes of unlike materials (copper, CPVC, PEX, stainless steel). The same fitting design works across different material types, eliminating the need for material-specific fittings and reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability to various materials
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the connection system into modular components: a universal fitting body, interchangeable fastening rings, and replaceable sealing members. This segmentation allows the same fitting body to work with different pipe materials by simply changing the sealing member, thereby achieving material compatibility without requiring specialized fittings for each material combination
4Ease of repair
If demounting rings are used to enable disconnection, then repair capability is improved, but the structure becomes more complex and additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the demounting function directly into the fastening ring itself, eliminating the need for separate demounting rings. The fastening ring is designed with integrated features that allow it to both secure the pipe during normal operation and be released when the release pusher is actuated. This merging reduces component quantity while maintaining disconnection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening ring serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical retention of the pipe, maintains sealing pressure, and enables controlled disconnection through the release mechanism. By making the fastening ring multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate demounting rings and other additional components, reducing overall device complexity while preserving repair capability
Data Source
AI summary
A push fitting joint packaging arrangement allows the re-use and repair of push-to-connect fittings and valves without damage to the fitting or valve elements or the pipe, and without coining, gluing or threaded engagement of parts. In one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement comprises a split fastening ring and a split O-ring support member.