Push-to-Connect Fitting Release Mechanism for Tool-Free Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping systems face challenges in connecting different materials like copper, CPVC, and stainless steel, and lack the ability to easily disconnect and re-use fittings without damaging them, leading to increased labor and manufacturing costs, as well as limitations in repairing small internal components.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect fitting assembly that uses a release pusher member to expose the clamping, sealing, and fastening mechanisms, allowing for the connection and disconnection of piping elements without tools, clamps, or glues, and can join both like and unlike materials without coining or threading, facilitating re-use without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional soldering methods are used to connect pipes, then strong and reliable joints are achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming, labor-intensive, and requires multiple materials and safety equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal soldering process with a mechanical push-fit connection system. The fitting includes a fastening ring with teeth that mechanically grip the pipe, and a release pusher mechanism that allows tool-free disconnection. This mechanical system eliminates the need for torches, solder, flux, and extensive preparation while achieving comparable joint strength through the fastening ring's grip on the pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-fit connection system is designed to be self-servicing, requiring no external tools, clamps, glues, or specialized equipment for both connection and disconnection. The release pusher mechanism allows the user to disconnect the pipe by simply pushing a button or lever, making the system self-contained and eliminating the need for additional materials or equipment that soldering requires.
2Productivity
If push-fit technology is used to reduce soldering dangers and time, then connection speed increases, but the ability to disconnect and re-use fittings is limited or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a dynamic release mechanism that transitions the fitting from a permanently locked state to a releasable state. The release pusher activates a mechanism that moves the fastening ring teeth away from the pipe surface, allowing the pipe to be withdrawn. This dynamic feature enables the fitting to adapt between secure connection and easy disconnection modes, facilitating repair and re-use while maintaining high connection speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The release pusher acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the fastening ring. By pushing the release pusher, the user indirectly actuates the fastening ring release mechanism, which then allows pipe removal. This intermediary component enables tool-free disconnection without requiring damage to the fitting or pipe, making repair and re-use feasible while maintaining the simplicity of push-fit connection.
3Reliability
If fittings are designed for permanent connection, then connection reliability is maximized, but repair of small internal components becomes impossible and requires complete replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting incorporates a dynamic release mechanism that allows transition from a permanently locked state to a releasable state. The release pusher activates a mechanism that moves the fastening ring teeth away from the pipe surface, enabling pipe removal without damage. This dynamic feature allows selective disconnection for repair of small internal components while maintaining reliable connection during normal operation, eliminating the need for complete fitting replacement.
4Strength
If fastening rings are permanently fixed in fittings, then connection strength is maintained, but disconnection requires cutting and destruction of the fastening ring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the permanently fixed fastening ring into a dynamically controllable component. The release pusher mechanism allows the fastening ring teeth to be moved away from the pipe surface on demand, enabling easy disconnection. The fastening ring maintains its grip strength during normal operation but can be released when needed, eliminating the need for cutting or destruction and allowing repeated use.
Solution Approach 2:
The release pusher serves as an intermediary that controls the fastening ring's engagement and disengagement. By pushing the release pusher, the user actuates the fastening ring release mechanism, which moves the teeth away from the pipe. This intermediary component enables controlled disconnection without damaging the fastening ring or pipe, maintaining grip strength while facilitating easy operation for repair and re-use.
Data Source
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AI summary
A push-to-connect fitting release assistance assembly, device and method allows for simplified manual operation of a push-to-connect fitting through a clip device capable of manual fit around a fitting adapted for such use. In various embodiments, the clip device comprises a base portion and first and second leg portions, where the leg portions are adapted to provide a gradually increasing or decreasing axial pressure to a release pusher member included as part of the fitting assembly. In various embodiments, the main body component of the fitting is adapted with axially inner, intermediate and outer portions that provide a snug mechanical fit with the clip device.