Push-to-Connect Joint Assembly for Reusable Pipe Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping systems face challenges in connecting different materials like copper, CPVC, and stainless steel without threading, welding, or brazing, and they lack the ability to easily disconnect and reuse fittings without damaging internal components, leading to increased labor and manufacturing costs, as well as limitations in repairing or replacing only specific internal parts.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect joint assembly that uses a release pusher to expose clamping, sealing, and fastening mechanisms, allowing for the connection and disconnection of piping elements without tools, threading, or gluing, and can join both like and unlike materials, featuring a sealing ring member, fastening ring, seat ring, shield member, and release pusher member, which can withstand high pressures and facilitate re-use without damaging internal elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If push-fit technology is used to connect piping systems, then the dangers and time involved in brazing joints are reduced, but the ability to disconnect and reuse fittings without damaging internal components is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening ring is designed with dynamic teeth that can engage with the pipe during insertion and disengage during removal. The release pusher mechanism allows the fastening ring to transition from a locked state during operation to an unlocked state during disconnection, enabling reusable connections without damaging internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is divided into separable components including the fastening ring, release pusher, sealing ring, and body. This segmentation allows the pipe to be disconnected from the body by releasing the fastening ring without damaging the sealing ring or other internal elements, enabling reuse of the fitting.
2Strength
If traditional brazing methods are used to connect pipe elements, then strong joints are achieved, but the process is time-consuming, unsafe, and labor intensive requiring numerous materials
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical brazing process (involving torch, heat, solder, flux) is replaced with a purely mechanical push-fit connection system. The fastening ring with teeth provides mechanical engagement that secures the pipe without requiring thermal processes, eliminating the need for torch, solder, flux, and other brazing materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-fit connection is self-securing through the fastening ring that automatically engages with the pipe during insertion. The teeth on the fastening ring bite into the pipe wall, creating a self-locking mechanism that maintains joint strength without requiring external tools or materials during the connection process.
3Reliability
If push-fit fittings are designed with fastening rings to prevent disconnection, then connection security is improved, but the fittings cannot be removed or detached for re-use
Solution Approach 1:
The release pusher acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the fastening ring. By pushing the release pusher, the user activates a mechanism that causes the fastening ring teeth to disengage from the pipe, allowing removal. This intermediary enables controlled disconnection while maintaining secure connection during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening ring transitions from a static locked position during operation to a dynamic unlocked position during disconnection. The teeth are positioned to engage the pipe wall firmly during service but can be withdrawn when the release pusher is activated, providing both security and reusability.
Data Source
AI summary
A push-to-connect joint assembly, device and method include a fitting formed with an interior wall having axially inner, axially intermediate and axially outer portions that facilitate 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 embodiments, a packing arrangement inserted into a fitting includes a sealing member, a fastening ring, a seat ring, and a retainer including a shield member and/or a seat retainer.