Push-Fit Valve Release Tool With Latching Collar Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional release tools for push-fit valves require manual force to disengage conduits, making it difficult for a single person to disconnect multiple conduits from equipment, especially in applications like maintenance where frequent disconnection is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A release tool with a fixed member affixed to the valve and a movable member that can be pivoted to push the release collar inward, allowing the grab ring to release the conduit, and is retained in the engaged position through guiding arms and notches, enabling easy disconnection and maintenance of the grab ring in an unlocked state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional release tools are used to disengage conduits from push-fit valves, then the conduit can be released, but multiple operators are required to disconnect multiple conduits simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The release tool is pre-mounted on the valve body before operation, with the release collar positioned to engage the grab ring. This preliminary positioning allows the operator to simply apply force to the handle, which automatically translates to the release collar pushing the grab ring inward, eliminating the need for multiple operators to manually position and force each release tool.
2Reliability
If manual force is applied continuously to maintain conduit disengagement, then the conduit remains disconnected, but the operator cannot manage multiple valves simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The release tool incorporates a latch mechanism that automatically maintains the release collar in its engaged position after the operator applies force. Once the grab ring is pushed inward to release the conduit, the latch self-activates to hold the collar in place, ensuring reliable disengagement without requiring continuous manual force. This allows the operator to quickly move to the next valve without worrying about maintaining pressure on previous ones.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple release tool structure is used, then manufacturing is easier, but the tool cannot retain the movable member in the engaged position
Solution Approach 1:
The release tool uses a latch mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the release collar and the handle. When the operator moves the handle to push the release collar inward, the latch engages with a corresponding feature on the collar to maintain the engaged position. This simple intermediary component adds minimal structural complexity while reliably solving the retention problem.
Data Source
AI summary
A release tool for use with a push-fit valve includes a fixed member and a movable member. The fixed member includes: a central portion defining a base aperture, the central portion being rotatably fixed relative to the valve when a valve lever base is received in the base aperture; and a guiding arm extending from a side of the central portion so as to extend along a side of a valve body. The movable member defines: a conduit aperture configured for a conduit to extend therethrough during use; and a guiding aperture receiving the guiding arm of the fixed member. To disconnect the conduit from the valve, the movable member is moved from the first position to the second position to push the release collar inwardly into the valve, causing a grab ring of the valve to release the conduit. The movable member is selectively retained in the second position.