Push-Fit Pipe Fitting with Grip Ring and Dual Seals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods of connecting pipes, such as welding and soldering, are time-consuming and labor-intensive, while existing push-fit technologies may not provide a secure and leak-proof seal.
Innovation Solution
A fitting design that includes a housing with a bore featuring a threaded section, annular shoulders, and a grip ring with flexible teeth to securely engage the pipe, along with a bonnet and seal members to ensure a tight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding and soldering are used to connect pipes, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal joining methods (welding/soldering) with a mechanical push-fit system. The fitting uses a grip ring with teeth that mechanically engage with the pipe exterior surface, combined with seal members that create a leak-proof seal through direct mechanical contact, eliminating the need for heat and torch equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting design allows the pipe to be inserted and secured through a simple push motion without requiring external power sources, specialized tools, or additional materials. The grip ring automatically engages with the pipe, and the seal members self-actuate to create the seal as the pipe is inserted.
2Loss of time
If push-fit technology is used to connect pipes, then the installation time is reduced and labor is simplified, but the seal may not be secure and leak-proof
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into distinct functional components: a grip ring with teeth for mechanical engagement, separate seal members for creating the leak-proof seal, and a bonnet for securing the assembly. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together as a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting employs multiple materials with different properties: the grip ring uses flexible material with teeth for gripping, the seal members use elastomeric or rubber-like materials for sealing, and the housing provides structural support. This composite approach ensures both quick installation and reliable sealing.
3Reliability
If traditional welding and soldering methods are used, then the connection is secure, but more materials and equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from the traditional joining process. Instead of requiring flux, solder, torch fuel, and protective equipment, the design uses only the essential elements: the housing, grip ring, seal members, and bonnet, all integrated into a single fitting unit.
4Ease of operation
If a simple push-fit design is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural complexity may be insufficient to ensure a secure connection
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting components are nested within each other: the grip ring sits within the housing, the seal members are positioned within the bonnet, and the entire assembly engages with the pipe in a nested configuration. This nested structure maximizes functionality within a compact form factor.
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 fitting provides a quick, easy, and secure connection of pipes with minimal materials, achieving a reliable and leak-proof seal that reduces installation time and labor costs.
Implementation Method 1
A grip ring having a plurality of flexible teeth is positioned within the housing and is configured to be seated against the second annular shoulder, wherein the flexible teeth are configured to grip an exterior surface of the pipe or conduit
Implementation Method 2
The first annular shoulder includes an annular nub that extends axially outward therefrom, wherein the annular nub is configured to deform when bonnet is seated against the first annular shoulder
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
A fitting (10) including a housing (16) defining a bore (36). The bore (36) of the housing (16) at the first open end (26) including a first threaded section (38), a first annular shoulder (42) located inboard from the first threaded section (38), and a second annular shoulder (46) located inboard from the first annular shoulder (42). A grip ring (18) having a plurality of flexible teeth (56) is positioned within the housing (16) and seated against the second annular shoulder (46), wherein the flexible teeth (56) grip an exterior surface (58) of the pipe or conduit (12). A bonnet (24) is seated against the first annular shoulder (42) and has an exterior threaded surface (40) that mates with the first threaded section (38) of the bore (36). A bonnet washer (20) is positioned between the grip ring (18) and the bonnet (24), and a pair of seal members (22) are positioned between the bonnet washer (20) and the bonnet (24) that sealingly engage with the exterior surface (58) of the pipe or conduit (12).