U.S. patent application number 11/568074 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-11 for enhanced press apparatus.
Invention is credited to Richard R. Bowles, James E. Hamm, David D. Manacapelli, Todd A. Westley.
Application Number | 20080216543 11/568074 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36000972 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080216543 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hamm; James E. ; et
al. |
September 11, 2008 |
Enhanced Press Apparatus
Abstract
A system is disclosed for using a press tool with a limited work
output to perform a multi-step press operation to complete a press
where the work required for the completed press is greater than the
limited work output of the tool. The system includes a press ring
actuator assembly, a press ring assembly with multiple press ring
sections, or a combination thereof, designed to facilitate
multi-step press operations with adjustable engagement surfaces to
complete the press with the press tool.
Inventors: |
Hamm; James E.; (Grafton,
OH) ; Bowles; Richard R.; (Solon, OH) ;
Manacapelli; David D.; (Mediana, OH) ; Westley; Todd
A.; (Elyria, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LOCKE LORD BISSELL & LIDDELL LLP;ATTN: IP DOCKETING
600 TRAVIS STREET, 3400 CHASE TOWER
HOUSTON
TX
77002
US
|
Family ID: |
36000972 |
Appl. No.: |
11/568074 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
November 21, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US05/42151 |
371 Date: |
September 26, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60630747 |
Nov 24, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
72/352 ;
72/367.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25B 27/10 20130101;
B21D 39/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
72/352 ;
72/367.1 |
International
Class: |
B21D 22/00 20060101
B21D022/00; B21D 3/00 20060101 B21D003/00 |
Claims
1. A system for pressing a fitting, comprising: a press tool with a
given work output; a press ring actuator assembly; a press ring
assembly; and the press ring actuator assembly, the press ring
assembly, or a combination thereof being adapted to perform a
multi-step press operation to complete a press on the fitting where
the work required for the completed press on the fitting is greater
than the given work output of the tool.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the press ring actuator assembly,
the press ring assembly, or a combination thereof being adapted to
perform the multi-step press operation comprises a means for
adjusting the press ring actuator assembly, the press ring
assembly, or the combination thereof, for a partial press or a
complete press.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the press ring actuator assembly
comprises a first jaw and a second jaw and is adapted to adjust a
maximum jaw spacing between the jaws.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the jaws is
rotatable about an eccentric pin, wherein the jaw spacing between
the jaws depends on the rotated position of the eccentric pin
relative to the at least one jaw.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein each jaw is rotatable about an
eccentric pin and the eccentric pins are linked together to
maintain a fixed rotational relationship upon rotation of one pin
to effect rotation of the other pin.
6. The system of claim 3, further comprising an adjustable force
profile for the jaws, at one of the jaws having a first engagement
surface at a first angle and a second engagement surface at a
second angle.
7. The system of claim 3, further comprising a first set of tips
having a first shape, the first set of tips removably coupled to
the jaws, and a second pair of tips having a second shape that
differs from the first shape and interchangeable with the first set
of tips to adjust the jaw spacing.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the press ring assembly comprises
an adjustable press ring assembly having a first press ring section
and a second press ring section, the adjustable press ring assembly
having adjustable engagement surfaces to adjust a spacing between
the press ring sections for completing the press.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to
the first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by rotation thereof.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the one or more rotatable
eccentric pins comprises a pin used to couple the ring sections
together.
11. The system of claim 8, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more laterally slidable pins coupled to
first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by lateral movement thereof.
12. The system of claim 8, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to
first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by rotation thereof.
13. The system of claim 8, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more movable elements coupled to the press
ring sections and adapted to selectively move into a position for
engagement with the jaws of the press ring actuator assembly to
adjust the spacing of the engagement of the jaws with the press
ring assembly.
14. The system of claim 8, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprises one or more ratchet elements coupled to the
press ring sections and adapted to selectively move into a position
for engagement with the jaws of the press ring actuator assembly to
adjust the spacing of the engagement of the jaws with the press
ring assembly.
15. The system of claim 8, wherein the adjustable press ring
assembly comprises at least a third press ring section and a fourth
press ring section, both coupled to the first and second press ring
sections, wherein the first and second press ring sections are
dimensioned to engage the fitting at a first spacing, and the third
and fourth press ring sections are dimensioned to engage the
fitting at a second spacing.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein at least one of the press rings
sections comprises an interface element that interfaces with other
press ring sections that requires the press operation to be
performed in sequence.
17. The system of claim 1, comprising a hydraulic force multiplier
having a first piston in a first hydraulic cylinder coupled to a
second piston of a different size, stroke, or a combination thereof
in a second hydraulic and a check valve disposed therebetween.
18. A system for pressing a fitting in a multi-step press
operation, the system adapted to increase the total amount of work
input into pressing the fitting with a press tool having a given
stroke, the system having adjustable engagement surfaces for
completing the press, the adjustable engagement surfaces being
coupled to a press ring actuator assembly, a press ring assembly
adapted to cooperate in the pressing with the press ring actuator
assembly, or a combination thereof.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the press ring actuator
assembly comprises a first jaw and a second jaw and is adapted to
adjust a maximum jaw spacing between the jaws.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein at least one of the jaws is
rotatable about an eccentric pin, wherein the jaw spacing between
the jaws depends on the rotated position of the eccentric pin
relative to the at least one jaw.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein each jaw is rotatable about an
eccentric pin and the eccentric pins are linked together to
maintain a fixed rotational relationship upon rotation of one pin
to effect rotation of the other pin.
22. The system of claim 19, further comprising an adjustable force
profile for the jaws, at one of the jaws having a first engagement
surface at a first angle and a second engagement surface at a
second angle.
23. The system of claim 19, further comprising a first set of tips
having a first shape, the first set of tips removably coupled to
the jaws, and a second pair of tips having a second shape that
differs from the first shape and interchangeable with the first set
of tips to adjust the jaw spacing.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the jaws are adapted to use a
tip of the first shape on one first jaw and a tip of the second
shape on a second jaw to further adjust the jaw spacing.
25. The system of claim 18, wherein the adjustable press ring
assembly comprises a first press ring section and a second press
ring section, the adjustable press ring assembly having adjustable
engagement surfaces to adjust a spacing between the press ring
sections for completing the press.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to
the first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by rotation thereof.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the one or more rotatable
eccentric pins comprises a pivot pin used to couple the ring
sections together and about which the ring sections pivot relative
to each other.
28. The system of claim 25, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more laterally slidable pins coupled to
first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by lateral movement thereof.
29. The system of claim 25, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to
first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by rotation thereof.
30. The system of claim 25, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more movable elements coupled to the press
ring sections and adapted to selectively move into a position for
engagement with the jaws of the press ring actuator assembly to
adjust the spacing of the engagement of the jaws with the press
ring assembly.
31. The system of claim 25, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprises one or more ratchet elements coupled to the
press ring sections and adapted to selectively move into a position
for engagement with the jaws of the press ring actuator assembly to
adjust the spacing of the engagement of the jaws with the press
ring assembly.
32. The system of claim 25, wherein the adjustable press ring
assembly comprises at least a third press ring section and a fourth
press ring section, both coupled to the first and second press ring
sections, wherein the first and second press ring sections are
dimensioned to engage the fitting at a first spacing, and the third
and fourth press ring sections are dimensioned to engage the
fitting at a second spacing.
33. The system of claims 32, wherein at least one of the press
rings sections comprises an interface element that interfaces with
other press ring sections that requires the press operation to be
performed in sequence.
34. The system of claim 18, comprising a hydraulic force multiplier
coupled to the press ring actuator assembly having a first piston
in a first hydraulic cylinder coupled to a second piston of a
different size in a second hydraulic and a check valve disposed
therebetween.
35. A method of pressing a fitting in a multi-step pressing
operation, comprising: placing a press ring assembly around a
fitting, the press ring assembly having a first ring section and a
second ring section pivotally coupled to each other; engaging the
press ring assembly with a press ring actuator assembly having a
pair of jaws; actuating the press ring actuator assembly to press
the first and second ring sections toward each other to at least
partially press the fitting; adjusting the press ring actuator
assembly, press ring assembly, or a combination thereof to
accommodate a smaller cross sectional dimension of the fitting and
reactuating the press ring actuator assembly to finalize the press
with the press ring and increase the total amount of work input
into pressing the fitting with a press tool having a given
stroke.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting
one or more engagement surfaces coupled to the press ring actuator
assembly, press ring assembly, or a combination thereof.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein the press ring actuator
assembly comprises a first jaw and a second jaw coupled to the
first jaw with a pin, and wherein adjusting the press ring actuator
assembly comprises rotating the pin relative to the jaws to adjust
the spacing between the jaws.
38. The method of claim 37, wherein the pin comprises an eccentric
portion and rotating the pin relative to the jaws comprises
rotating the eccentric portion to adjust the spacing.
39. The method of claim 37, further comprising adjusting a force
profile for the jaws by providing at least one of the jaws with a
first engagement surface at a first angle and a second engagement
surface at a second angle.
40. The method of claim 37, further comprising a first set of tips
having a first shape, the first set of tips removably coupled to
the jaws, and a second pair of tips having a second shape that
differs from the first shape and wherein adjusting the press ring
actuator assembly comprises interchanging the first set of tips
with the second set of tips to adjust the jaw spacing.
41. The method of claim 35, wherein the press ring assembly
comprises a first press ring section and a second press ring
section, and wherein adjusting the press ring assembly comprises
adjusting one or more engagement surfaces between the press ring
sections.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the engagement surfaces
comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to the first
press ring section, the second press ring section, or a combination
thereof, and wherein adjusting one or more engagement surfaces
comprises rotating one or more of the eccentric pins.
43. The method of claim 41, wherein the engagement surfaces
comprise one or more laterally slidable pins coupled to the first
press ring section, the second press ring section, or a combination
thereof, and wherein adjusting one or more engagement surfaces
comprises sliding laterally one or more of the eccentric pins.
44. The method of claim 41, wherein the engagement surfaces
comprise one or more movable elements coupled to the press ring
sections, and wherein adjusting one or more engagement surfaces
comprises moving one or more of the movable elements into a
position for engagement with the jaws of the press ring actuator
assembly.
45. The method of claim 41, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprises one or more ratchet elements coupled to the
press ring sections, and wherein adjusting one or more engagement
surfaces comprises moving the one or more ratchet elements into a
position for engagement with the jaws of the press ring actuator
assembly.
46. The method of claim 41, wherein the adjustable press ring
assembly comprises at least a third press ring section and a fourth
press ring section, both coupled to the first and second press ring
sections, and wherein adjusting one or more engagement surfaces
comprises engaging the fitting with first and second press ring
sections at a first spacing, and engaging the fitting with the
third and fourth press ring sections at a second spacing.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein at least one of the press rings
sections comprises an interface element and wherein actuating the
press ring actuator assembly comprises limiting an actuation of the
first and second press ring sections relative to an actuation of
the third and fourth press ring sections in a sequential order.
48. The method of claim 35, wherein actuating the press ring
actuator assembly comprises actuating a hydraulic force multiplier
to increase the work input into pressing the fitting.
49. A system for pressing a fitting in a multi-step press
operation, comprising a press ring actuator assembly having a first
jaw and a second jaw, the press ring actuator assembly being
adapted to adjust a maximum jaw spacing between the jaws.
50. The system of claim 49, further comprising a press ring
assembly adapted to be selectively engageable with the press ring
actuator assembly.
51. The system of claim 49 wherein at least one of the jaws is
rotatable about an eccentric pin, wherein the jaw spacing between
the jaws depends on the rotated position of the eccentric pin
relative to the at least one jaw.
52. The system of claim 51, wherein each jaw is rotatable about an
eccentric pin and the eccentric pins are linked together to
maintain a fixed rotational relationship upon rotation of one pin
to effect rotation of the other pin.
53. The system of claim 49, further comprising an adjustable force
profile for the jaws, at one of the jaws having a first engagement
surface at a first angle and a second engagement surface at a
second angle.
54. The system of claim 49, further comprising a first set of tips
having a first shape, the first set of tips removably coupled to
the jaws, and a second pair of tips having a second shape that
differs from the first shape and interchangeable with the first set
of tips to adjust the jaw spacing.
55. The system of claim 49, comprising a hydraulic force multiplier
coupled to the press ring actuator assembly having a first piston
in a first hydraulic cylinder coupled to a second piston of a
different size in a second hydraulic and a check valve disposed
therebetween.
56. A system for pressing a fitting in a multi-step press
operation, comprising a press ring assembly having adjustable
engagement surfaces for completing the press.
57. The system of claim 56, comprising a press ring actuator
assembly selectively engageable with the press ring assembly.
58. The system of claim 56, wherein the press ring assembly
comprises a first press ring section and a second press ring
section, the press ring assembly having adjustable engagement
surfaces to adjust a spacing between the press ring sections for
completing the press.
59. The system of claim 58, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to
the first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by rotation thereof.
60. The system of claim 59, wherein the one or more rotatable
eccentric pins comprises a pivot pin used to couple the ring
sections together and about which the ring sections pivot relative
to each other.
61. The system of claim 58, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more laterally slidable pins coupled to
first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by lateral movement thereof.
62. The system of claim 58, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more rotatable eccentric pins coupled to
first press ring section, the second press ring section, or a
combination thereof, and adapted to change the spacing between the
ring sections by rotation thereof.
63. The system of claim 58, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprise one or more movable elements coupled to the press
ring sections and adapted to selectively move into a position for
engagement with jaws of a press ring actuator assembly to adjust
the spacing of the engagement of the jaws with the press ring
assembly.
64. The system of claim 58, wherein the adjustable engagement
surfaces comprises one or more ratchet elements coupled to the
press ring sections and adapted to selectively move into a position
for engagement with jaws of a press ring actuator assembly to
adjust the spacing of the engagement of the jaws with the press
ring assembly.
65. The system of claim 58, wherein the press ring assembly
comprises at least a third press ring section and a fourth press
ring section, both coupled to the first and second press ring
sections, wherein the first and second press ring sections are
dimensioned to engage the fitting at a first spacing, and the third
and fourth press ring sections are dimensioned to engage the
fitting at a second spacing.
66. The system of claims 65, wherein at least one of the press
rings sections comprises an interface element that interfaces with
other press ring sections that requires the press operation to be
performed in sequence.
67. The system of claim 56, comprising a hydraulic force multiplier
selectively engageable with the press ring assembly having a first
piston in a first hydraulic cylinder coupled to a second piston of
a different size in a second hydraulic and a check valve disposed
therebetween.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to PCT Application No.
PCT/US05/42151, filed Nov. 21, 2005, which is incorporated herein
by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to apparatus for
pressing fittings to connect sections of pipe and, more
particularly, apparatus for use in pressing such fittings.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A compression fitting is typically a tubular sleeve
containing seals. The fitting is compressed in radial directions to
engage the ends of pipes. The compression fittings form a leak
resistant joint between the pipe ends. The joint has considerable
mechanical strength and is self-supporting. In order to compress
the fitting, a pressing tool is used.
[0004] Pressing tools typically include a press tool containing a
hydraulic cylinder with a piston and apparatus for converting the
movement of the piston into forces that are applied to a press
fitting in order to press the fitting to the pipe segments to be
joined. For some pipe diameters, a press jaw is coupled to the
press tool and the press jaw is placed about the fitting to be
pressed. For such arrangements, the hydraulic piston in the press
tool will typically include rollers that roll along a linear path
when the piston is actuated to contact arms of the press jaw. When
the tool is activated, the piston will move a fixed distance along
a linear path to press the piston with its rollers against the
arms. The rollers engage ends of the jaws in line engagement and
cause them to pivot and press the compression fitting disposed
between the jaws. An example of a press tool including a press jaw
is provided in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0005] For certain pipe sizes (typically larger sizes) the use of
press jaws is limited because it is often difficult and unwieldy to
construct a jaw that is easily movable and large enough to fit
around the press fitting. In such applications, press rings or
press slings are often used to facilitate the pressing operations.
In such circumstances a press ring is placed about the fitting to
be pressed and a press ring actuator is coupled to the press tool.
The press ring actuator is similar to a press jaw, in that it
includes pivoting arms, but the press ring actuator interfaces with
the press ring such that activation of the tool, resulting in a
pivoting of the jaws of the press ring actuator, will apply force
to the press ring to press the fitting.
[0006] In general, pressing tools are designed such that each
activation of the tool results in movement of the hydraulic piston
along a fixed distance path. The linear distance the piston moves
for a given tool is often referred to as the "stroke" of the tool.
The force output of the piston as it moves along the stroke will
depend on the sizing, geometry and other characteristics of the
hydraulic cylinder and piston. In general, the maximum amount of
"work" output that a pressing tool can provide during a single
stroke of the piston will correspond to the force output of the
tool multiplied by the distance traveled by the piston upon
actuation of the tool. For example, the typical maximum work output
from a tool capable of providing 32 kN of force with a piston
travel of 40 mm will be 1.280 kN-m. In reality, it is not possible
to utilize 100% of the maximum theoretical work output due to
inherent system limitations such as clearance and combined
tolerances between multiple components and operating conditions
required to allow jaws to open with rollers retracted which can be
on the order of 1.5 mm of wasted stroke.
[0007] The limitation on the maximum work output of a given
pressing tool can create challenges if the same tool is intended
for use in pressing small pipes (where pressing jaws or small press
rings are to be used) and also with larger pipe sizes where large
pressing rings may be used. For certain applications the maximum
work output of the tool is insufficient to provide the amount of
work necessary to completely press all press fittings for which use
of the tool may be desirable. Accordingly, individuals working with
large and small press fittings, may be forced to carry and maintain
both a small press tool (for use with the small fittings) and a
large press tool for the infrequent instances where a large press
fitting (one requiring a work output greater than that available
from the small tool) are required. This requirement for multiple
press tools results in increased costs, maintenance, equipment
demands and other undesirable consequences. While some systems use
a single sling and multiple actuators (jaws) to provide for a
two-step pressing operation, the requirement for multiple actuators
involves the use and transportation of significant added weight and
the need to remove an initial actuator from the tool and substitute
a second actuator during a press results in complicated,
cumbersome, relatively slow and potentially error-prone
operation.
[0008] The present disclosure is directed to apparatus that allow
press tools to efficiently and easily press fittings when the work
required to press the fitting is greater than the work produced
upon a single actuation of the press tool.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] The present disclosure is directed toward an apparatus
allowing a press tool assembly to readily and easily press a
fitting when the work required to press the fitting is greater than
the work produced upon a single actuation of the tool or where a
multi-step press is desired.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The foregoing summary, description of a preferred
embodiment, and other aspects of the present invention will be best
understood with reference to a detailed description of specific
embodiments of the invention, which follows, when read in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0011] FIGS. 1 and 2 generally illustrate an exemplary pressing
tool assembly 10, including a pressing tool 12 and a jaw assembly
14, constructed in accordance with certain teachings of the
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 3 generally illustrates the use of a press ring
assembly to accomplish a press.
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a first exemplary press actuator assembly
that may facilitate pressing where multiple actuations of a
pressing tool are required.
[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates a cut-away view of an exemplary press
ring assembly 50, and an actuator jaw 52 constructed in accordance
with certain teachings of this disclosure to easily enable
multi-step press operations.
[0015] FIGS. 6, 7, 8A, 8B, 9, 10 and 11 generally illustrate
alternate press ring assemblies that may be used to facilitate
multi-step pressing.
[0016] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary pressing actuator assembly
that uses a pin with an eccentric to enable multi-step pressing
operations.
[0017] FIG. 13 illustrates a set of actuator jaws 130 that may be
of beneficial use with respect to the press rings assemblies
reflected in FIGS. 6-11 above, as well as other press rings
assemblies, that include ramps designed to control the forces
generated by the jaws.
[0018] FIG. 14 illustrates a press ring interlock concept that may
be used with any multi-step press rings assemblies including, but
not limited to the multi-step press rings assemblies discussed
above in connection with FIGS. 6-11.
[0019] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate a press ring assembly 150 that
is particularly suited for multi-step pressing operations involving
separate retention and seal bead press.
[0020] FIG. 16 illustrates a press ring assembly 160 that is
similar to that previously described in connection with FIGS. 15A
and 15B that tends to ensure that a seal bead press is performed
prior to any retention presses.
[0021] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrates a press ring assembly 170 that
is similar to that previously described in connection with FIGS.
15A and 15B that tends to ensure that the retention presses are
preformed prior to the seal bead press.
[0022] FIGS. 18A and 18B generally illustrates a hydraulic force
multiplying device 180 that may be used to engage a press allowing
a press tool to press a fitting when the work required to press the
fitting is greater than the work produced upon a single actuation
of the tool.
[0023] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way
of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein.
However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended
to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the
invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and
alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined
by the appended claims.
DISCLOSURE OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0024] Turning to the drawings and, in particular, to FIG. 1, an
exemplary press tool assembly 10 is illustrated. The assembly 10
includes a pressing tool 12 and a jaw assembly 14.
[0025] The press tool 12 comprises a generally gun-shaped device
that includes a hydraulically actuated piston assembly (not shown
in FIGS. 1 or 2) that is used to actuate the jaw assembly 14 in a
manner known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The press tool
12 may be battery or cord powered. Examples of known press tools
that may be used to practice the subject matter of the present
disclosure include the Model CT-400 and Model 320-E press tools
available from Ridge Tool Company.
[0026] FIG. 2 generally illustrates a side cutaway view of the
assembly 10 depicted in FIG. 1. As reflected in the figure, the jaw
assembly 14 defines at its peripheral end an opening 34 that is
sized and shaped to engage a press fitting and to result in
pressing of such fitting when the jaw assembly 14 is actuated. As
further reflected in the figure, the press tool 12 includes a
hydraulically actuated piston assembly 30 that includes rollers 32A
and 32B. When the press tool 14 is activated, e.g., through the
depression of a trigger or switch, the hydraulically activated
piston assembly 30 will be moved towards the jaw assembly 14 along
a path of travel causing the rollers 32A ad 32B to engaged the
distal end of the jaws 16A and 16B, resulting in a closing of the
jaws 16A and 16B and, if a press fitting was positioned in opening
34, a pressing or a partial pressing of the fitting.
[0027] FIG. 3 generally illustrates the use of a press ring
assembly to accomplish a press connection. As reflected in the
figure, the pressing tool 12 is coupled to a press ring actuator
assembly 30. The press ring actuator assembly is similar in
construction to the press jaws 14 discussed above, with the primary
difference being that the arms of the press ring actuator assembly
30 are designed to interface with the press ring assembly 32. In
the illustrated embodiment, press ring assembly 32 is formed of two
generally half-round shaped sections that are coupled together at a
pivot point. In operation, the press ring assembly 32 is placed
about a press fitting 35 to be pressed, the tips of press ring
actuator assembly 30 are placed within notches formed on the press
ring assembly 32 and the pressing tool 12 is actuated. Actuation of
the pressing tool causes movement of the arms of the press ring
actuator assembly 30 and compression of the press ring assembly 32
and the fitting 35 about which it is placed.
[0028] As noted above, for certain size fittings the amount of work
generated by one actuation of the press tool (e.g., one pull of the
actuating trigger for the piston-type tool 12 of FIG. 3) is
insufficient to completely press the press fitting at issue. Thus,
to complete the press operation, multiple actuations of the press
tool may be required. Because the stroke and force are limited for
a given press tool, the press operation may not be completed using
the same press tool, press ring actuator assembly, and press ring
assembly without adjustments. The present disclosure provides for
adjustable engagement surfaces of the press ring actuator assembly,
press ring assembly, or a combination thereof that effectively
adjusts spacing between the compression portions of the members
that allow further compression with the same stroke of the press
tool. The adjustments are used to obtain an increased work quantity
beyond the normal capabilities of the members without the
adjustments.
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary press ring actuator assembly
that may facilitate pressing where multiple actuations of the
pressing tool are required. Referring to the figure, a press ring
actuator assembly 40 is illustrated. The ring actuator assembly 40
is constructed, in general, in accordance with known practices for
press ring actuator assemblies with the primary exception being
that the press ring actuator assembly 40 includes replaceable tips
42. The replaceable tips include a first set of tips 42, having a
particular geometry and construction and a second pair of tips 43
including a second geometry and construction that differs, in at
least one respect from that of the first set. Because the
replaceable tips are sized differently, the manner in which they
interface with the press ring assembly will differ and it is
possible to efficiently use the press ring actuator assembly of
FIG. 4 to readily perform a two-step pressing operation. For
example, the first set of tips 42 could be used to perform an
initial press operation through use of the press ring actuator
assembly 40 and a press ring assembly and a press tool in a
conventional manner. The press ring actuator assembly 40 could then
be removed from the press ring, the tips 43 could be substituted
for tips 42, and the pressing tool could be coupled to the press
ring assembly through the modified press ring actuator assembly 40.
Actuation of the press tool a second time could then provide the
necessary additional work to complete the press operation. Further,
it may in certain instances be desirable to use three or more steps
to complete the press operation. For example and without
limitation, the first step could be completed with two identical
actuator tips 42 installed. Next, one actuator tip could be
replaced with a tip of a different geometry 43 and the second step
completed. Then, a third step could be completed using two
identical actuator tips 43. Additional steps could be accomplished
using more replaceable tips with differing geometry similar to the
tips 43.
[0030] In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the tips 42 and 43 are coupled
to the actuator jaws via an interference fit assembly including a
recessed opening in the arms of the actuator assembly 40 (not
shown) that receives a projection extending from the tips 42 and
43. This is one example of an approach that may be used to couple
the interchangeable tips 42 and 43 to the jaws of the actuator
assembly 40. Other approaches and techniques, such as interlocking
"puzzle" pieces, pins and receiving slots and the like, may be
used.
[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate approach to facilitating
rapid and convenient "two-step" pressing and in generally
multi-step pressing. Specifically FIG. 5 illustrates a cut-away
view of an exemplary press ring assembly 50, and a press ring
actuator assembly 52 constructed in accordance with certain
teachings of this disclosure. In general, the press ring assembly
50 is constructed in accordance with known techniques for
constructing press ring assemblies. However, in the illustrated
embodiment, the recess in which the press ring actuator assembly is
typically received includes two pin-like elements 54a and 54b. In
the illustrated embodiment, the tip of the jaws of the actuator
assembly 52 is constructed so as to engage one of the elements 54a
or 54b. Thus, for a two step operation a first pressing operation
may be performed by having the press ring actuator assembly 52
engage the press ring assembly 50 at element 54a, and then after
the tool to which actuator assembly 52 is coupled is actuated a
first time, the tip of the press ring actuator assembly 52 may be
repositioned to engage element 54b to provide a second pressing
operation. In this manner, a multi-step pressing operation may be
easily facilitated, as little in the way of complex operator action
is required. Further, if additional steps are desired, additional
pin like elements 54A and 54B could be added to the assembly
allowing a three or more step press process.
[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate press ring assembly 60 that
may be used to facilitate multi-step pressing. In the illustrated
embodiment, the press ring assembly 60 includes recesses 62a and
62b for receiving the tips of a conventional press ring actuator.
Positioned with the recesses 62a and 62b are movable elements 64a
and 64b that can be rotated to fixed positions to adjust the
geometries of the recess and the manner in which the pressing
actuator engages the ring assembly 60. In this manner, the press
ring may be configured for a first press operation by positioning
the movable members 64a and 64b at a first position and then
reconfigured for subsequent operations through movement or
adjustment of the members 64a and 64b.
[0033] It should be noted that the inner diameter profile 65 of the
ring assembly 60 is machined to work with a particular press
fitting. This inner diameter contour can be machined in a variety
of shapes depending on the fitting being crimped. The contour could
include provisions to press both the seal bead and retention press
areas of the fitting simultaneously. The concept of a profiled
inner diameter can be applied to all of the press rings discussed
herein.
[0034] FIG. 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment to that of FIG.
6. In FIG. 7, a press ring assembly 70 is illustrated that includes
recesses 72a and 72b and movable members 74a and 74b. Like the
movable members in FIG. 6, the movable members 72a and 72b may be
adjusted to change the geometry of the recesses 72a and 72b to
facilitate multi-step pressing operations. In the example of FIG.
7, the movable members 74a and 74b are adjusted though linear
movement (e.g., sliding).
[0035] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate yet further embodiments in which
the geometry of the recess in which the jaws of a press ring
actuator assembly are received by a press ring assembly to
facilitate multi-step pressing operations. In both embodiments,
movable elements defining surfaces for receiving the tips of the
press ring actuator can be rotated into and out of a fixed position
such that the press ring assembly can be operated in one
configuration where the tip of the actuator assembly is received by
the press ring assembly, but not the movable elements, and a second
configuration where portions of the movable elements receive the
jaws of the press ring actuator assembly. In the embodiment of FIG.
8A, the rotatable elements 82a and 82b attach to the main press
ring assembly at a location outside a recess in which the jaws of
the actuator assembly are received, while in the embodiment of FIG.
8B the rotatable elements 84a and 84b are coupled to the press ring
at a point within such a recess.
[0036] FIG. 9 illustrates yet another embodiment of movable
elements where a press ring assembly 90 is provided with slidable
elements 94a and 94b located in recesses 92a and 92b which move
into positions to change the manner in which the press ring
assembly 90 interfaces with a press ring actuator assembly applied
to the ring assembly 90.
[0037] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary press ring assembly 100
having an alternative design of movable elements. The illustrated
ring assembly includes movable elements 102a and 102b, each of
which includes a recess 104a and 104b for receiving the tip of a
press ring actuator assembly. In the illustrated embodiments the
elements 102a and 102b are coupled to the main portions of press
ring 100 via a ratcheting mechanism 106a and 106b. In use the
positions of the elements 102a and 102b may be adjusted between
pressing steps to change the manner in which the actuator jaws
interface with the ring assembly 100. In this manner, multi-step
presses are readily enabled. A release mechanism, constructed in
accordance with known techniques, may be provided to allow
readjustment of the movable elements 102a and 102b.
[0038] FIG. 11 illustrates a press ring assembly 110 that includes
recesses 112a and 112b for receiving tips of a press ring actuator.
The two main sections of the press ring assembly 110 are coupled
together by an adjustable hinge element 114 that includes a pin 116
having an eccentric cross section. The pin 116 is adjustable such
that the point about which the two main elements of the press ring
assembly 110 rotate relative to one another may be changed,
depending on which position the pin 116 is placed. In this manner,
the press ring assembly may be configured to operate in a first
configuration for a first press operation and then pin 116 may be
repositioned to change the configuration of the ring assembly 110
for a subsequent press operation.
[0039] FIG. 12 illustrates a press ring actuator assembly 120 that,
like the press ring assembly 110, uses a pin with an eccentric to
enable multi-step pressing operations. In this embodiment the arms
of the actuator are coupled together at two hinge points 122A and
122B. Each hinge point includes a pin with an eccentric 124, where
the pin can be adjusted to change the configuration of the press
ring actuator assembly. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12, a
coupling element 126 is used to ensure that the pins associated
with hinge points 122A and 122B rotate in tandem.
[0040] FIG. 13 illustrates a set of actuator jaws 130 that may be
of beneficial use with respect to the press rings assemblies
reflected in FIGS. 6-11 above, as well as other press ring
assemblies. As described above, each of the press rings reflected
in FIGS. 6-11 may be adjusted to provide multiple configurations
such that the manner in which actuator arms engage the press rings
is adjustable. In many instances, the same set of press ring
actuator assemblies may be beneficially used to perform a press
operation in the various configurations. In some instances,
however, it may be desirable to have the force profile by which
force is applied to the press ring adjusted to suit the specific
ring configuration. The actuator assembly 130 of FIG. 13 attempts
to accomplish this result by providing multiple cam elements 131
and 132 with the cam elements serving as locations where the
rollers of a hydraulic piston will interact with the actuator
assembly 130. In a first pressing operation, where the jaws may be
at their widest position, the rollers will tend to interface with
the actuator assembly 130 at the cam element 131, thus providing a
particular force profile as the actuator assembly moves through its
stroke. Because of anticipated compression of the fitting, or
because of the adjustment on the configuration of the press ring
assembly, it is anticipated that for a second press operation, the
jaws will be in a more closed position such that the rollers
associated with the hydraulic piston can provide a different force
profile. Additional details on how the surfaces of the cam elements
131 and 132 may be tailored to provide desirable force profiles can
be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/238,329
entitled "Crimping Assembly" (published as WO 03/022480), which is
incorporated by reference. By using an actuator assembly with the
tailored ramp surfaces as described, it may be possible to optimize
the application of force for various multi-step press ring assembly
designs.
[0041] FIG. 14 illustrates a press ring interlock concept that may
be used with any multi-step press ring assembly including, but not
limited to the multi-step press ring assemblies discussed above in
connection with FIGS. 6-11. Referring to FIG. 14, the interlock
feature involves the incorporation of a ratcheting mechanism 140
into the press ring assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the
ratcheting assembly includes a toothed surface 142 formed on one of
the main members of the press ring and a pivotable cog 144 coupled
to another of the main member of the press ring. The cog is spring
biased to engage the toothed surface 142. As the press ring
assembly is compressed about a press fitting, an engagement element
of the cog 144 will move within the toothed surface 142 and tend to
preclude the press ring assembly from re-opening once an initial
press operation is completed. Thus, after the initial pressing
process, the press ring assembly will be "locked on" to the press
fitting and not removable (absent manual release of the cog). This
locking on may prevent users of any multi-step ring assembly
including the same from completing the press operation. In the
illustrated embodiment, the cog 144 is configured and biased, and
the toothed surface 142 is sized, such that, upon completion of the
pressing processes, the cog will automatically disengage and allow
opening and removal of the press ring assembly.
[0042] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 14, the ratcheting
mechanism 140 is repeated on both sides of the illustrated press
ring assembly. Alternate embodiments are envisioned where the
ratcheting mechanism is located on only one side of the press ring
assembly.
[0043] In accordance with a further teachings of this disclosure a
pressing operation is performed wherein the pressing process is
broken down into two or more discrete steps including at least one
step where a press is performed to provide a retention press to
retain the fitting on the pipe to which the fitting is applied and
where at least one press is performed to press the seal bead to
provide a snug seal. FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate a press ring
assembly 150 that is particularly suited to this form of multi-step
pressing.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, a press ring assembly is
illustrated that includes six generally half-round shaped segments
152A-1, 152A-2, 152B-1, 152B-2, 152C-1 and 152C-2 forming multiple
press ring sections coupled together to pivot about a common point
154. Each of the half-round shaped segments defines a pocket sized
to receive the tips of a pair of actuator arms. The ring assembly
150 is sized and designed such that, in use, the ring assembly will
be placed over a fitting to be pressed. When so positioned, the
segments 152A-1 and 152A-2 will be positioned over a part of the
fitting to provide an initial retention press to one of the pipe
elements to be coupled by the fitting; segments 152B-1 and 152B-2
will be positioned to press an area of the fitting to provide a
sealing press of a seal bead; and segments 152C-1 and 152C-2 are
positioned so as to provide a retention press for another pipe
element to be coupled by the fitting. After the ring assembly is
positioned around the fitting, the tips of a pair of actuator jaws
will be positioned within the pockets defined by segments 152A-1
and 152A-2 and the tool to which the jaws are coupled will be
activated, thus producing a retention press securing the fitting at
issue to one of the pipe elements to be coupled. The tool will then
be moved such that the tips of the actuator arms are positioned in
the pockets defined by segments 152B-1 and 152B-2 and the tool will
be actuated providing a seal bead press. Finally, the tips of the
actuator jaws will be moved to the pockets defined by segments
152C-1 and 152C-2 and actuated for a third time, providing a second
retention press.
[0045] It should be noted that the press ring assembly 150 of FIGS.
15A and 15B is intended for use with press fittings that have areas
for retention press located on both sides of the fitting a seal
bead area positioned between the two areas for retention press. It
should also be understood that additional half round pairs of ring
sections could be added axially to accommodate other fitting
designs requiring multiple retention press or seal bead locations
allowing for multiple step crimping. Also, certain fittings may
require rearrangement of the half round pairs. For example, a
fitting could require retention presses side-by-side and a seal
bead at the axial end of the fitting such as fittings available
currently from Mapress or Yorkshire.
[0046] In the above-described example, the press for the seal bead
was performed after a first retention press was completed. It
should be understood that the described process was exemplary only
and that other processes could be followed. For example, processes
are envisioned wherein the seal bead press is performed first and
the retention press are performed last or where the two retention
presses are completed first and the bead seal press is performed as
the last pressing operation.
[0047] FIG. 16 illustrates a press ring assembly 160 that is
similar to that previously described in connection with FIGS. 15A
and 15B. However, in this design the outer segments 162A-1, 162A-2,
162C-1 and 162C-2 of ring sections are designed with notched
segments 164, 165 and corresponding notched segments not
illustrated in FIG. 16 located on segments 162A-2 and 162C-2, that
interface with the intermediate segment 162B-1 and 162B-2 to ensure
that the center press operation (the seal bead press) must be
performed first, that is, in sequence. The arrangement of the
notches 164 and 165 is such that any attempts to provide a press
using one of the outer segment pairs (162A-1 and 162A-2 or 162C-1
and 162C-2) prior to the completion of a press with the
intermediate segment pair 162B-1 and 162B-2 will result in a failed
press that should be visibly apparent to the user of the ring
assembly or for which the tool will provide a indication to the
user of a failed press. The failed press is ensured by the fact
that the notches 164 and 165 (and the corresponding notches on the
underside of the ring) are designed so that activation of the outer
segments before activation of the intermediate segments will result
in an engagement of the outer segments with the intermediate
segments and, as such, a press of the outer segments before the
press of the inner segments are complete will result in the
actuator tool attempting to perform two pressing operations.
Because, in the applications for which the ring assembly 160 will
be used, the work output of the tool is insufficient to perform two
press operations, the attempted press operation will fail. If the
intermediary press is performed first, the intermediate segments
162B-1 and 162B-2 will tend to be closed or partially closed as a
result of the deformation of the press fitting in that area. As
such, a subsequent actuation of the outer segments will not result
in an engagement of the inner segments or an attempted "two-press"
operation. Accordingly, the ring assembly 160 provides a structure
that tends to ensure that the intermediate press is performed in
sequence prior to the completion of the external press.
[0048] Similar to FIGS. 15A and 15B, additional ring segments could
be incorporated axially. Also, the arrangement of the seal bead and
retention press contours on the ring inside diameter could be
rearranged as dictated by the fitting design for which the ring is
intended to press.
[0049] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a press ring assembly similar
to that discussed above in connection with FIGS. 15A, 15B and 16.
The structure of FIGS. 17A and 17B, however, is designed to ensure
that the outer press operations (using segments 172A-1, 172A-2 and
172C-1 and 172C-2) are performed prior to the completion of the
inner press operation with segments 172B-1 and 172B-2. As
illustrated in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the inner segments 172B-1 and
172B-2 are constructed with outwardly extending notched areas 174
and 175 that are designed to mate with a corresponding notched area
on the outer segments 172A-1, 172A-2, 172C-1 and 172C-2).
Accordingly, if an attempt is made to perform a press with the
intermediate segments 172B-1 and 172B-2 prior to the completion of
the outer press operations, the one or both of the notched areas
174 or 175 will engage the outer segment pair corresponding to an
area that has not been pressed, resulting in an attempted "two
press" operation and a press failure. For example, if an outer
press is performed using segments 172A-1 and 172A-2 and thereafter
a press is attempted with the intermediary segments 172B-1 and
172B-2, the notch 175 (and its counterpart on the bottom of the
illustrated ring) will engage the press segments 172C-1 and 172C-2
resulting in an attempted "two-press" operation and a press
failure. In this manner, the press ring assembly 170 tends to
ensure that the outer press operations are performed prior to the
pressing operation of the center press.
[0050] Because the amount of force/work required to perform a seal
bead press is often less than that required for a retention fit, it
is possible to adjust the design of the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 17A and 17B such that the initial actuation of the outer
press ring segments 172A-1, 172A-2 and 172C-1, 172C-2 does not
fully complete the two retention press but the actuation of the
intermediate segments 172B-1, 172B-2 results not only in the
completion of the seal bead press but also in the completion of the
retention press. In this manner, the full work output of the tool
with which the ring assembly 170 is used may be utilized. In such a
design, the work to press the fitting is not divided into three
equal pieces, but rather into a first partial press operation, a
second partial press operation and a third operation that not only
results in a full third press operation, but also completes the
first and second press operations.
[0051] FIGS. 18A and 18B generally illustrates another device 180
that may be used to engage a press allowing a press tool to press a
fitting when the work required to press the fitting is greater than
the work produced upon a single actuation of the tool. In general,
FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrates a hydraulic force multiplier 180 that
includes a first end 181 and a second end 182. The first end 181 is
adapted for attachment to the end of a standard press tool and
includes a first piston 183 within a first hydraulic cylinder that
is moved by the piston of the press tool (not illustrated).
Actuation of the press tool will cause the first piston 183 to move
a distance corresponding the stroke of the tool and will force
hydraulic fluid through a first check valve 184 into a second
hydraulic cylinder. The introduction of fluid into the second
hydraulic cylinder will cause a second piston 185 to move along a
second stroke. By repeatedly actuating the press tool the apparatus
of FIGS. 18A and 18B will cause the second piston 185 to travel a
stroke that is greater than the stroke of the pressing tool,
resulting in a work output of the combined assembly of the pressing
tool and the apparatus of FIGS. 18A and 18B that exceeds the
maximum work output available from a single actuation of the press
tool. Moreover, the apparatus of FIGS. 18A and 18B is easy to use
because, once the user starts the press operation with an initial
actuation of the press tool the press tool will likely be locked on
the press fitting until the pressure in the second cylinder is
manually relieved or until the press is completed. Also, once the
user starts the press, the user can keep their hands in one place;
the only movement required of the user would be reactivation of the
press tool (e.g., by pulling the trigger on a "gun-type" tool).
[0052] In the embodiments of FIGS. 18A and 18B, both the first and
the second pistons 183 and 185 are spring biased to return to a
fixed starting point when the pressure behind the cylinder is
relieved. In the illustrated embodiment, a kick down relief valve
186 is provided to allow the second cylinder to automatically
retract when the pressure in the second cylinder corresponds to a
work output sufficient to achieve the desired pressing results. A
similar kick down valve could be provided for the first cylinder.
In place of kick down relief valves, standard relief valves could
also be used with manual relief
[0053] In the embodiment of FIGS. 18A and 18B, the second cylinder
is shown having both a diameter that is larger than that of the
first cylinder and a stroke that is longer than that of the first
cylinder. As such the effective work out form the pressing tool
after multiple actuations of the tool is increased both because the
force from the tool is effectively increased and because the stroke
of the tool is increased. Alternate embodiments are envisioned
where only the force or only the stroke are increased.
[0054] In addition to allowing a press tool to press a fitting
having a work requirement greater than the maximum one-stroke work
output of the tool, the apparatus of FIGS. 18A and 18B has the
potential benefit of enhancing the effective operation of a tool
through the use of feedback sensors and the like. For example,
pressure and/or other sensors could be added to apparatus of FIGS.
18A and 18B to measure the pressure in the first and/or second
cylinders and/or the actual travel of the first and/or second
pistons. Such information could be provided external to the
apparatus for use in confirming and/or diagnosing the pressing
process. In this manner, an "instrumented" element could convert a
non-instrumented tool into instrumented tool.
[0055] A still further advantage the apparatus of FIGS. 18A and 18B
is that it allows the use of main actuators other than a standard
press tool to attain a desirable press. For example, actuating
elements other than a press tool could be used to achieve the
desired movement of the first piston. Embodiments are envisioned
where a feed screw was used to move the first piston. Such
alternate embodiments could allow for the use of press fittings in
situations where the costs of a full pressing tool are not
justified and/or in situations where electricity is not available
and/or undesirable to use.
[0056] While the apparatus of FIGS. 18A and 18B is illustrated with
the first and second hydraulic cylinders positioned end-to-end, it
should be recognized that alternate constructions are possible. For
example, it may be possible to render the design more compact by
stacking the two hydraulic cylinders side-by-side, or one on top of
the other, to keep the center of gravity of the overall
tool/apparatus assembly closer to the end-user's hands. Still
further, small, high pressure hydraulics and/or valves smaller than
the exemplary kick down valve could be used to minimize the size of
the unit
[0057] While the invention has been described with reference to the
preferred embodiments, obvious modifications and alterations are
possible by those skilled in the related art. Therefore, it is
intended that the invention include all such modifications and
alterations to the full extent that they come within the scope of
the following claims or the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *