Push-Fit Pipe Coupling With Releasable Grip Ring Retention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings for fluidically coupling pipes in DWV systems often require solvent cement, adhesives, or complex mechanical procedures for connection and disconnection, lacking ease of use and adaptability in varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A pipe fitting with a coupling body and pipe engagement assembly featuring a retainer ring and grip ring, utilizing inwardly extending projections and slots for secure engagement, along with a snap fit mechanism and elastomeric gasket for fluid sealing, allowing for easy connection and disconnection without permanent bonding techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solvent cement or adhesive bonding techniques are used to connect pipes, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the ease of disconnection and reconnection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a pipe engagement assembly with grip ring for mechanical holding, a retainer ring for sealing, and an elastomeric gasket for fluid sealing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling easy disassembly and reconnection without compromising connection reliability during use.
2Reliability
If complex mechanical procedures are used for connection, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe engagement assembly incorporates self-aligning and self-retaining features where the grip ring with inwardly extending projections automatically engages the pipe outer surface, and the retainer ring with outwardly extending projections automatically secures itself to the coupling body sidewall. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures or special tools, reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliable connections.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If permanent bonding techniques are used, then the durability of connection is improved, but the adaptability for reconnection in varying environmental conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent bond to a dynamic reversible mechanical engagement. The grip ring maintains continuous contact with the pipe through its inwardly extending projections, providing durable holding force during operation, while allowing complete disengagement and reconnection when environmental conditions change. This dynamic capability enables adaptation to varying installation and operational conditions.
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
Enables convenient and secure fluid connections between pipes, facilitating easy disconnection and reconnection without complex tools, while maintaining a reliable fluid seal across varying conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric gasket for fluid sealing
Implementation Method 2
snap fit engagement mechanism to establish the fluidic connection
Data Source
AI summary
In a preferred embodiment, there is provided a pipe coupling comprising a coupling body having two or more open ends and a pipe engagement assembly for attachment to the open end for engagement of a pipe thereto, the pipe engagement assembly comprising a retainer ring and a grip ring, and the coupling body comprising a sidewall defining an internal bore sized for receiving at least a portion of the pipe and the retainer ring, the retainer ring being dimensioned to be received at least partially by the grip ring and to receive the pipe therethrough, wherein the grip ring comprises a plurality of first projections extending inwardly towards the bore to engage the pipe, and the retainer ring comprises one or more second projections extending outwardly to releasably engage the sidewall, the retainer ring defining a plurality of slots sized to receive the first projections therethrough, wherein the slots are positioned to retain the first projections with the grip ring engaging the pipe and the second projections engaging the sidewall, thereby retaining the grip ring and the pipe to the open end.