Release Pusher Locking for Reusable Push-Fit Pipe Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping systems face challenges with labor-intensive and costly assembly methods, such as soldering and threading, which are time-consuming and do not allow for easy repair or re-use of fittings and valves, leading to increased manufacturing costs and reduced production capability.
Innovation Solution
A push-fit piping joint assembly with a lockable release pusher and locking mechanism that enables quick locking and unlocking of piping elements within a fitting, allowing for tool-free connection and disconnection without damage, using a snap ring and sealing members for secure retention and leak-free seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If soldering or threading methods are used to connect piping elements, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the assembly time and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (soldering, threading) with a push-fit mechanical system using a fastening ring with gripping elements that engage the pipe through elastic deformation, achieving secure connection without thermal or complex mechanical processes
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening ring utilizes elastic parameter changes through its material properties, deforming to grip the pipe during insertion and maintaining constant gripping force through elastic recovery, enabling quick connection without traditional assembly processes
2Productivity
If traditional fastening rings are used in push-fit connections, then the connection speed is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional retaining components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fastening ring and retaining cap into a single integrated component where the fastening ring itself incorporates retaining features through its elastic structure and gripping elements, eliminating the need for separate retaining caps or additional assembly steps
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical retention through elastic deformation, creates sealing surfaces through its gripping elements, and incorporates self-retaining features, replacing multiple traditional components with a single multi-functional element
3Productivity
If push-fit technology is used to reduce assembly time, then the productivity is improved, but the ease of repair and re-use of fittings deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic release mechanism where the fastening ring can be transitioned between a locked gripping state during normal operation and an unlocked release state during maintenance, allowing the same fitting to be both securely connected and easily disconnected as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a release tool as an intermediary that temporarily engages with the fastening ring's internal structure to apply controlled force for disengagement, enabling easy repair and re-use without damaging the fitting while maintaining secure connection during normal use
4Reliability
If multiple components are used in push-fit connections for secure retention, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to increased assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple retention functions into the single fastening ring component, which uses elastic deformation and gripping elements to provide both mechanical retention and sealing, eliminating the need for multiple separate retention components and simplifying the assembly process
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4A~7
AI summary
A push fitting joint packaging arrangement includes embodiments with a pusher locking member (166) having at least one nipple member extending radially into a locking member opening, and a release pusher (170) having a wing extending radially outwardly around the circumference of an inner wall, wherein the inner wall includes at least one access channel and at least one stop channel, wherein the at least one access channel and the at least one stop channel are engageable with the at least one nipple member of the pusher locking member. A push fitting joint packaging arrangement includes separate embodiments with a tamper-resistant release pusher configuration, employing a retaining clip that is slidably engageable with a pusher locking member, and wherein a release pusher is removably or releasably securable to the pusher locking member.