Self-locking Push-to-Connect Insert for Plumbing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-to-connect plumbing fittings require preassembly and a separate tool for conduit removal, limiting their flexibility and usability in field applications, as they are typically designed for specific fittings and not easily convertible from conventional fittings.
Innovation Solution
A universal self-locking push-to-connect plumbing assembly featuring interlocking cartridges with a dual-function gripping ring and a release ring, allowing for easy assembly and conversion of conventional fittings into push-to-connect fittings without the need for additional tools, enabling secure and removable connections to various plumbing fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If push-to-connect fittings are preassembled to a particular fitting, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the installer must have the specific fitting available and cannot convert conventional fittings in the field
Solution Approach 1:
The push-to-connect mechanism is divided into a separate insert assembly that can be independently installed into conventional fittings. The insert contains the gripping ring, sealing ring, and cartridge components, allowing it to be universally adapted to different fitting types without requiring preassembly of the entire fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert assembly is designed with universal compatibility to fit into various conventional plumbing fittings. The gripping ring with inwardly and outwardly projecting tines can engage different fitting geometries, while the sealing ring adapts to different sealing surfaces, enabling one insert design to serve multiple fitting types.
2Ease of operation
If a separate tool is used for conduit removal, then the connection can be securely assembled, but additional tools and labor steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The release ring functionality is integrated directly into the insert assembly, combining the gripping mechanism and release mechanism into a single unit. The release ring with outwardly projecting fingers is captured within the cartridge and works in conjunction with the gripping ring tines, eliminating the need for external removal tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert assembly provides self-contained installation and removal capabilities. The release ring can be manually actuated to disengage the gripping tines from the conduit, allowing the installer to remove the conduit without additional tools. The assembly serves itself by including all necessary components for both assembly and disassembly operations.
3Strength
If the gripping ring uses inwardly projecting tines to hold the conduit, then the conduit is securely gripped, but the conduit cannot be easily removed
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping mechanism transitions from a static grip to a dynamic release mechanism. The release ring with outwardly projecting fingers can be actuated to push against the inwardly projecting tines of the gripping ring, causing them to flex outward and release the conduit. This dynamic action allows easy removal while maintaining strong grip during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The release ring acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the gripping tines. By actuating the release ring, the operator indirectly causes the gripping tines to flex and release the conduit. This intermediary mechanism provides mechanical advantage and control, making conduit removal easier while maintaining strong grip strength during installation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fittings are converted to push-to-connect fittings in the field, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but the conversion process may compromise connection reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing ring is designed to adapt to different fitting geometries and sealing surfaces through material compliance and geometric flexibility. The sealing ring can deform to match the contour of various conventional fitting interiors, maintaining reliable sealing across different fitting types while enabling field conversion from conventional to push-to-connect configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal self-locking push-to-connect plumbing insert assembly provides flexibility to an installer to use the assembly in the field with a variety of different plumbing fittings for coupling conduits to such fittings. The assembly comprises first and second interlocking cartridges holding a dual function gripping ring. The gripping ring has inwardly projecting tines for gripping and holding a fluid conduit and outwardly projecting tines for holding the assembly within a plumbing fitting. A sealing ring is captively held by the first cartridge and is positioned to seal the insert assembly to a plumbing fitting when inserted therein and also seal a conduit extended into the assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly further includes a release ring held within the second cartridge for selectively engaging the inwardly projecting tines of the gripping ring to allow a fluid conduit to be removed from the insert assembly.