Reusable Push-to-Connect Joint Assembly for Leak-Free Pipe Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping systems face challenges in connecting different materials like copper, CPVC, and PEX without threading, welding, or brazing, and lack the ability to easily reuse or repair fittings without damaging them, leading to increased labor and manufacturing costs, as well as limitations in adapting to changes in pipe direction and material combinations.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect joint assembly that uses a release pusher to expose clamping, sealing, and fastening mechanisms, allowing for connection and disconnection without tools, threading, or glues, and can join both like and unlike piping elements, featuring a sealing ring member, fastening ring, seat ring, shield member, and release pusher to create a leak-free seal and withstand high pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional brazing or welding methods are used to connect piping systems, then strong and reliable joints are achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming, labor-intensive, and requires multiple materials and safety equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal field system (brazing/welding with torches and heat) with a mechanical field system (push-fit connections using mechanical fastening rings and sealing mechanisms). This substitution eliminates the need for heat generation equipment, flux, solder, and extensive preparation steps while maintaining joint reliability through mechanical interlocking and sealing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the complex brazing process elements (torch, flux, solder, heating equipment) from the connection process, retaining only the essential function of joining pipes. The push-fit mechanism achieves connection through simple insertion and mechanical fastening, eliminating unnecessary steps and materials while improving productivity.
2Ease of operation
If push-fit technology is used to simplify connection processes, then connection speed and ease of operation improve, but the ability to reuse and repair fittings without damage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a dynamic release mechanism that allows the fastening ring to be deliberately disengaged from the pipe. The release pusher enables controlled movement of the fastening ring to release its grip on the pipe, allowing for easy disconnection and reuse of fittings without damage. This dynamic feature transforms a potentially permanent mechanical connection into a reversible one.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting includes self-contained release mechanisms that allow users to disconnect fittings without requiring external tools or complex procedures. The release pusher and associated mechanical elements enable the fitting to service itself by facilitating its own disconnection and potential reconnection, improving both ease of repair and reusability.
3Quantity of substance
If push-fit connections are used to reduce material requirements, then the number of materials needed decreases, but ensuring leak-free seals at high pressures becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing functions into an integrated push-fit assembly. The sealing ring, fastening ring, and seal retainer work together as a unified system to provide both mechanical fastening and leak-free sealing. This merging of functions ensures that the reduced material usage does not compromise seal integrity, as the combined elements work synergistically to maintain reliable seals under high pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs composite construction with different materials optimized for specific functions: elastomeric sealing rings for flexibility and sealing, metallic fastening rings for structural strength, and PTFE coating for low friction. This composite approach allows each material to contribute its optimal properties, ensuring leak-free seals while minimizing overall material usage.
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 ling, a seat ring, and a retainer including a shield member and/or a seat retainer.