CN112297409B - PEX expanding tool - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention discloses an expansion tool, comprising: an actuator including a cylindrical housing defining an actuator housing cavity; a primary ram disposed within the actuator housing cavity, defining an inner primary ram cavity; a secondary ram disposed within the inner primary ram cavity; a cam roller carrier coupled to a distal end of the secondary ram; a drive collar positioned within the distal end of the actuator housing cavity; a roller clutch disposed in an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the drive collar; a reciprocating cam positioned between the roller clutch and the main ram distal end; an expander cone coupled to the main punch; and a dilator head operably coupled to the drive collar.

Description

PEX expanding tool

The present application is a divisional application of a chinese patent application filed on 10/6/2016 and having an application number of 201680047444.8 and entitled "PEX expanding tool".

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority from U.S. patent application serial No. 15/178,786 entitled "PEX expander tool" filed on 10.6.2016 and U.S. patent application serial No. 62/173,730 entitled "PEX expander tool" filed on 10.6.2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Background

The present invention relates to a tube and a tube expansion tool and method. More particularly, the present invention relates to a PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) dilation tool that utilizes a multi-segmented extension head and autorotation features. In particular, the presently described expansion tool includes an automatic rotation feature that occurs prior to extension of the head.

Due to the rising cost of copper pipe, polymer pipe is becoming increasingly popular in residential and commercial buildings. One of the most common types of polymer tubes is made of cross-linked polyethylene (commonly referred to as PEX). The polymeric tube is connected to the fitting by expanding the mouth of the tube, allowing the tube to slide over the fitting. The pipe is then secured to the fitting by crimping the flared portion of the pipe. A typical building will have many joints; installation of the tubes therefore involves expanding the mouth of many tubes.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments are described that relate to PEX dilation tools. In one embodiment, the present disclosure describes a tool operable to extend an end of a pipe. Such a tool may include an actuator and a dilator head operably coupled to the actuator, the dilator head including a plurality of dilator head segments. When triggered, the actuator first rotates the dilator head, then the actuator rotates the dilator head segment within the dilator head.

In an example implementation, the present name describes an expansion tool. The expanding tool includes: (i) an actuator comprising a cylindrical housing defining an actuator housing cavity; (ii) a primary ram disposed within the actuator housing cavity, the primary ram defining an internal primary ram cavity; (iii) a secondary punch disposed within the inner primary punch cavity; (iv) a cam roller carrier coupled to a distal end of the secondary ram; (v) a drive collar positioned within the distal end of the actuator housing cavity; (vi) a roller clutch disposed in an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the drive collar; (vii) a reciprocating cam positioned between the roller clutch and the distal end of the main ram; (viii) an expander cone coupled to the main ram, and (ix) an expander head operably coupled to the drive collar.

The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present inventions or may be combined in yet other embodiments in which further details can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

Drawings

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the various components of the expansion tool;

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of various components of the expansion tool shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a close-up view of the motor, gear box and pump drive of the expansion tool shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of the actuator of the expansion tool of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 illustrates a close-up view of various components of the actuator shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 illustrates a close-up view of the reciprocating cam shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up view of the reciprocating cam illustrated in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up view of the drive collar of the actuator shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 illustrates another close-up view of the reciprocating cam of the actuator shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the actuator shown in FIG. 9 prior to rotation of the dilator head;

FIG. 11 illustrates another perspective view of the actuator shown in FIG. 10 after rotation of the dilator head and prior to dilation of the dilator head;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the dilator head of the dilator tool shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 shows another perspective view of the dilator head shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14A shows a perspective view of a bleed valve circuit member that may be used with an expansion tool (such as the expansion tool shown in FIG. 1);

FIG. 14B shows a schematic diagram of the bleed valve circuit member shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15 shows a close-up view of the main bleed valve of the bleed valve circuit shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B;

fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the main bleed valve of the expansion tool shown in fig. 14A and 14B;

FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of the pressure relief valve of the expansion tool shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B;

FIG. 18 illustrates a close-up view of an end of the travel sensing member of the expansion tool shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary method of operating the dilator tool shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of the dilator tool shown in FIG. 1 in a head rotation sequence;

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of the dilator tool shown in FIG. 20 during a head dilation sequence;

FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of the dilator tool shown in FIG. 21 during a retraction sequence;

FIG. 23 illustrates an arrangement of an exemplary dilator tool housing for use with a dilator tool (e.g., the dilator tool shown in FIG. 1);

FIG. 24 illustrates a proposed layout of the exemplary dilator tool housing arrangement shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 shows an alternative actuator for use with a spreading tool (e.g., the spreading tool shown in FIG. 1);

FIG. 26 illustrates an alternative actuator shown in FIG. 25; and

figure 27 shows a reciprocating cam that may be used with the alternative actuator shown in figures 25 and 26.

Detailed Description

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, like numerals generally identify like components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present invention, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the various components of the dilator tool 10. As shown, the dilator tool 10 includes a working end 16 and a trailing end 20. The working end 16, which may also be referred to as the distal end 10 of the dilator tool, preferably includes a dilator head 30 operably coupled to an actuator 70. The dilator head 30 comprises a plurality of dilator head segments 40A-F. Actuator 70 includes a generally cylindrical housing 74 operatively coupled to cylinder 200. As will be described in greater detail herein, the actuator 70 includes a plurality of working components that act together to first rotate and then expand the expander head segments 40A-F within the expander head 30. Reservoir 230 is mounted to the rear or proximal end 20 of cylinder 200. Reservoir 230 holds hydraulic fluid for operating the gearbox and pump drive. In one preferred arrangement, reservoir 230 comprises a flexible reservoir.

In fig. 1, a plurality of components are shown mounted to an outer surface 202 of a cylinder 200. For example, near the top portion 204 of the cylinder block 200, the gearbox 220, the pump drive 212, and the pump drive 210 are coupled directly to the outer surface of the cylinder block 200. A pump driver 212 operates the pump 210. The electric motor 194 is operatively coupled to a combination of the gearbox 220, the pump drive 212, and the pump 210. Pressure sensor 240, pilot valve solenoid 300, and position sensor 250 are also operatively coupled to base 206 of outer surface 202 of cylinder 200, the form and function of which will be described in greater detail herein.

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the various components of the expansion tool 10 shown in fig. 1. In particular, fig. 2 shows the expansion tool 10 (and its various components) in an initial position, i.e., the position that the expansion tool 10 maintains when not being operated.

Fig. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the motor 194, gearbox 220, pump 210, reservoir 230, cylinder 200, actuator 70, and dilator head 30 of the dilator tool 10 illustrated in fig. 1. As can be seen in fig. 2, the actuator 70 includes a plurality of components that operate the expander head 30 under hydraulic control and operation of the pump 210. Specifically, in this exemplary arrangement, the cylinder 200 is threadably coupled to the actuator housing 74. The cylinder block 200 defines a cylinder chamber 208 and the actuator housing 74 defines the actuator housing chamber 76. The cylinder chamber 208 and the actuator housing chamber 76 contain various components that operate together to first rotate the dilator head 30 a predetermined amount. These various members then drive the expander cone 140 into the expander head 30 after the expander head 30 has been rotated a predetermined amount, so as to expand the expander head segments 40A-F of the expander head 30 radially outward.

The cylinder cavity 208 and actuator housing cavity 76 house the main ram 80, main ram return spring 88, secondary ram 100, cam roller carrier 120, main ram hard stop collar 92, reciprocating cam 180, drive collar 160, and roller clutch 150. The primary ram 80 includes a distal end located adjacent the dilator head 30 and a proximal end located adjacent the reservoir 230. A main punch flange 86 is provided at the proximal end of the main punch 80. Additionally, a main punch return spring 88 is disposed along the outer surface of the main punch 80 between the main punch flange 86 and a proximal or rear surface of the main punch hard stop collar 92.

As shown, the main ram return spring 88 is in an uncompressed state when the expansion tool is in the initial position. The primary punch 80 also defines a primary punch cavity 84, and a secondary punch 100 is disposed within the primary punch cavity 84. Similar to the primary ram 80, the secondary ram 100 includes a distal end that faces the dilator head 30 and a proximal end that faces generally toward the reservoir 230. At the proximal end of secondary punch 100, a secondary punch flange 114 is provided. A secondary ram return spring 110 is disposed along the outer surface of secondary ram 100 between secondary ram flange 114 and inner main ram hard stop 94. As shown in fig. 2, the secondary ram return spring 110 is also in an uncompressed state when the expansion tool 10 is in the initial position.

Cam roller carrier 120 is operably coupled to the distal end of secondary ram 100. In an exemplary embodiment, a pin or screw 116 operatively couples secondary punch 100 to cam roller bracket 120. In this initial position, cam roller carrier 120 resides within a distal portion of secondary punch 100 and also within the distal portion and also within a distal portion of primary punch cavity 84. The distal portion of the cam roller carrier 120 expands into the proximal end of the expander cone 140.

Fig. 3 is a close-up view of the motor 194, gearbox 220, pump 210 and pump drive 212 of the expansion tool 10 shown in fig. 1 and 2. As shown in fig. 3, the motor 194 is operatively coupled to a gear housing 224, and the gear housing 224 houses the gear set 222 and the pump drive 210. In a preferred embodiment, the electric motor 194 comprises a clam shell motor and the gear set 222 comprises a two-stage planetary gear set. In one exemplary arrangement, the planetary gear set provides 10.6: 1 is reduced.

Fig. 4 is a close-up view of the cylinder 200 and actuator 70 of the expansion tool 10 shown in fig. 1. Preferably, the cylinder block 200 comprises an aluminium body with a roller mill cavity. The cap side 214 of the cylinder 200 may be configured to operate as a reservoir and may be in fluid communication with a rear reservoir 230 through at least one longitudinal fluid passage 216.

A secondary ram 100 positioned within primary ram cavity 84 is coupled to a cam roller carrier 120. The cam roller bracket 120 is generally cylindrical and includes a cam roller 130 at the distal end 124 of the cam roller bracket 120. As the cam roller carrier 120 moves distally and proximally within the dilator cone cavity 144, the cam rollers 130 are positioned within the slots 142 disposed within the dilator cone 140.

The main punch 80 also includes a recess 96 along the outer surface of the main punch near the proximal end of the main punch 80. In one preferred arrangement, a magnetic ring 98 is disposed in the groove 96. As will be discussed in greater detail herein, the magnetic ring 98 allows the end of the stroke detection circuit member (e.g., position sensor 250) of the expansion tool 10 to detect when the main ram 80 reaches the fully retracted position as shown in fig. 4.

In the illustrated embodiment, secondary punch 100 further includes a secondary punch hard stop 112 that is ridged and disposed along outer surface 108 of secondary punch 100. As will be described in greater detail herein, the secondary punch hard stop 112 is configured to abut the inner primary punch hard stop 94 after the expander head 30 has been rotated but before expansion of the expander head 30 begins.

In this illustrated arrangement, two set screws 146A, B may be used to secure the expander cone 140 to the distal end of the main punch 80.

Fig. 5 is a close-up view of various components of the actuator shown in fig. 4. Specifically, fig. 5 is a close-up view of the various components of the actuator 70 that act together to first rotate and then expand the dilator head. Specifically, fig. 5 is a close-up view of the drive collar 160, roller clutch 150, reciprocating cam 180, and the distal end of the primary ram 80.

For example, FIG. 5 shows the drive collar 160 positioned within the distal end 78 of the actuator housing 74. As shown, the distal end 78 of the actuator housing 74 can be provided with external threads 79 for threadably engaging the cap 24 (shown in fig. 1 and 2) to secure the dilator head 30 to the actuator 70. For example, referring to fig. 1 and 2, the distal end 78 of the actuator housing 74 is shown threadingly engaged with the cap 24 to secure the dilator head 30 to the dilation tool 10.

Drive collar 160 includes a first engagement face 164 facing in a distal direction, i.e., toward expansion head 30. The first engagement surface includes a plurality of nubs 168A, B, C, D that are geometrically configured to mate with slots provided in the dilator head section 40A, B, C, D, E of the dilator head 30. As such, when the drive collar 160 is rotated prior to expansion of the dilator head 30, the plurality of tabs 168A-D transmit torque to the dilator head 30, thereby rotating the dilator head 30. In one preferred arrangement, the plurality of tabs 168A-D comprise a trapezoidal geometric configuration.

The roller clutch 150 is located or compressed within an internal cavity 174 defined within an inner surface 172 of the drive collar 160. The roller clutch 150 allows the drive collar 160 to freely rotate on the reciprocating cam 180 as the main ram 80 expands in the distal direction. In addition, the roller clutch 150 also transmits torque during retraction of the main ram 80 in the proximal direction so as to return toward the initial position.

As shown in fig. 5, the groove 170 may be disposed along the outer surface 162 of the drive collar 160. Preferably, an O-ring 166 may be provided in the groove 170 to create sufficient friction to prevent the drive collar 160 from sliding freely over the roller clutch 150. In one preferred arrangement, the O-ring 166 comprises a nitrile rubber O-ring.

The reciprocating cam 180 is positioned between the roller clutch 150 and the distal end of the main ram 80 and is positioned along the distal or front surface 93 of the main ram hard stop collar 92. Specifically, the reciprocating cam 180 rotates around the main punch 80. A driven bearing attached to the main punch 80 drives the reciprocating cam 180. Expansion of the main punch 80 in the distal direction "resets" the reciprocating cam 180, while retraction of the main punch 80 in the proximal direction "drives" the reciprocating cam 180. In one preferred arrangement, the reciprocating cam 180 provides approximately 18 degrees of rotation of the expander head 30 for each stroke of the main punch 80. However, as one of ordinary skill will recognize, alternative predetermined rotational configurations may also be used.

The main punch 80 is positioned within an interior cavity 184 defined by the reciprocating cam 180. As noted above, the main punch cavity 84 terminates near a distal portion of the main punch 80 and has a larger diameter at that end than the remainder of the main punch cavity. At this larger diameter cavity, internal threads 90 are provided. The internal threads 90 can be used to securely fasten the expander cone 140 to the main punch 80.

Fig. 6 is a close-up view of the drive collar 160 shown in fig. 5. Figure 7 is a close-up view of the reciprocating cam 180 shown in figure 5. In particular, fig. 7 shows driven bearing 82 of primary punch 80 pulling on reciprocating cam 180 to rotate expander head 30 during primary punch retraction.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, when the main punch 80 is conveyed in the distal direction indicated by arrow 134, the reciprocating cam 180 and thus the drive collar 160 rotate in the clockwise direction indicated by arrow 136. Similarly, when the main punch 80 is retracted in the proximal direction indicated by arrow 138, the reciprocating cam 180, rather than the drive collar 160, will rotate in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by arrow 139.

FIG. 8 is a close-up view of the drive collar 160 of the actuator 70 shown in FIG. 4, and FIG. 9 is another close-up view of the reciprocating cam 180 of the actuator 70 shown in FIG. 7. As shown, the ramped or non-axial grooves 182 on the cam or reciprocating cam 180 are reversed to rotate as the main punch 80 advances, with the bearings being replaced by the cam rollers 130 driven by the secondary punch 100. As shown in fig. 9, the expander cone 140 is wedged onto the main punch 80 by the cam roller 130 and preferably via two set screws 146A, B (see fig. 4).

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the expander head 30 of the actuator 70 shown in fig. 9 prior to rotation. The secondary punch 100 begins to move in the distal direction until the secondary punch hard stop 112 engages the primary punch inner hard stop 94, as indicated by arrow 156. As the secondary ram 100 advances in the distal direction, the drive collar 160 (and thus the dilator head 30 (not shown)) rotates in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by arrow 154. Once the secondary ram hard stop 112 engages the primary ram internal hard stop 94, the expander head 30 rotation is complete and expansion of the expander head segments 40A-F that make up the expander head 30 begins. This process is shown in fig. 11. For example, fig. 11 is a perspective view after rotation of the expander head 30 of the actuator 70 shown in fig. 10 and prior to expansion of the expander head 30. As shown in fig. 11, secondary punch hard stop 112 of secondary punch 100 has engaged primary punch inner hard stop 94, and primary punch 80 and secondary punch 100 will now be driven in the distal direction. In this position, the secondary ram return spring 110 is in a compressed state. The primary punch 80 and the secondary punch 100 together drive the expander cone 140 towards the expander head 30, thereby radially expanding the expander head 30 when rotation is complete.

Fig. 25 shows an alternative actuator 770 for use with a dilation tool, such as the dilation tool 10 shown in fig. 1. In this alternative actuator 770, an alternative reciprocating cam 780 is used to rotate the expanding head section prior to head expansion.

The actuator 770 operates slightly differently than the actuator 70 shown and discussed previously. For example, in this alternative actuator arrangement 770, the reciprocating cam 780 moves proximally and distally with the main punch 80. For example, in this arrangement, the reciprocating cam 780 is held in place on the punch 80 by a snap ring 790. The clearance between the reciprocating cam 780 and the punch 80 allows the reciprocating cam 780 to rotate relative to the main punch 80. Another difference is that this alternative actuator 770 utilizes a reciprocating cam 180 that does not include a flange near the proximal end of the reciprocating cam (see, e.g., the flange along the proximal end of the reciprocating cam 180 shown in figure 7).

Figure 25 shows the drive collar 760 outside the distal end of the actuator housing after rotation of the drive collar 760 and reciprocating cam 780 has occurred. Similar to the drive collar 160 discussed herein, the drive collar 760 shown in FIG. 25 includes a first engagement face that points in a distal direction (i.e., toward the enlarged head). The first engagement face includes a plurality of tabs 768A, B, C, D that are geometrically configured to mate with the slots provided in the dilator head section of the dilator head discussed above. As such, when the drive collar 760 is rotated prior to expansion of the expander head, the plurality of tabs 768A-D transmit torque to the expander head, thereby also rotating the expander head. In one preferred arrangement, plurality of tabs 768A-D comprise a trapezoidal geometric configuration.

Similar to actuator 70 shown and discussed herein, a roller clutch (see, e.g., roller clutch 150 shown in fig. 5) is located or compressed within an internal cavity defined within an inner surface of drive collar 760. During retraction of the main ram 80 in the proximal direction, the roller clutch transmits torque and returns toward the home position.

Initially, the reciprocating cam 780 is in an initial position between the roller clutch and the distal end of the main ram 80. In this initial position, the reciprocating cam 780 is located in front of the main punch hard stop as described herein. Before the head expands, the reciprocating cam 780 rotates about the main punch 80. A driven bearing 782 attached to the main punch 80 drives a reciprocating cam 780. First, after rotation and as the main punch 80 is transferred in the distal direction, the reciprocating cam 780 and the drive collar 760 rotate accordingly. The rotation may be counter-clockwise or clockwise depending on the orientation of the cam or groove 786 provided by the reciprocating cam 80. In the arrangement shown in fig. 25, the cam 786 orientation provided by the reciprocating cam 780 will produce a clockwise rotation. Alternative cam or groove arrangements on the reciprocating cam may also be used. For example, FIG. 27 shows an alternative reciprocating cam 781 including an alternative cam or groove 783 arrangement. In this alternative cam arrangement, the orientation of the cam 783 provided by the reciprocating cam 781 will produce a counter-clockwise orientation prior to expansion of the head.

Figure 26 shows the actuator 770 after head expansion and the driven bearing 782 retracted to an end position along the cam 786 of the reciprocating cam 780. For ease of illustration, driven bearing 782 and reciprocating cam 780 are shown external to drive collar 760. Specifically, after head expansion, when the main ram 80 is retracted in a proximal direction, the reciprocating cam 780 (rather than the drive collar 760) will rotate in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow 792. In this manner, the reciprocating cam 780 returns to its original or initial position.

The operation of the actuator 770 is substantially similar to the operation of the actuator 70 shown and discussed herein. For example, before the dilator head mounted on the dilator cone 140 is rotated, the secondary punch begins to move in the distal direction until the secondary punch hard stop engages the primary punch internal hard stop. As the secondary ram advances in the distal direction, the dilator cone 140 (and thus the dilator head 30 (not shown in fig. 25 and 26)) rotates in a counterclockwise direction as shown by arrow 754 in fig. 25. Once the secondary punch hard stop engages the primary punch internal hard stop, the expander head rotation is complete and expansion of the expander head segment comprising the expander head begins.

Once the expander head is fully expanded, the main ram 80 is retracted proximally to its original initial position within the drive collar 760. As the reciprocating cam 780 begins to approach its initial position within the drive collar 760, the driven bearing 782 acts on the cam 786 defined by the reciprocating cam 780 to rotate the reciprocating cam in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow 792. Also, if an alternative cam or groove arrangement is made, the rotation may be by counterclockwise rotation.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a dilator head 30 for use with a dilator tool, such as dilator tool 10 shown in fig. 1. In this illustrated position, the dilator head segments 40A-F comprising the dilator head 30 are in a closed position. Fig. 13 is another perspective view of the dilator head 30 shown in fig. 12. In fig. 13, the dilator head segments 40A-F, which make up the dilator head 30, are in a partially dilated state.

As can be seen in FIG. 12, the dilator head 30 comprises a plurality of dilator head segments 40A-F. In this illustrated arrangement, the dilator head comprises six dilator head segments. However, alternative configurations may also be used.

The expansion tool 10 is constructed so that the expansion tool is rotated a predetermined amount prior to each expansion, the predetermined amount being the amount of rotation required to move the expanding head sections 40A-F from the stretched to the unstretched nozzle portions. More specifically, the rotation of the expanding head segments 40A-F is determined at least in part by the number of expanding head segments within the expander head 30. The number of dilating head segments is selected to allow multiple rotations of the dilator head 30 without repeated positions. As just one example, in one expander tool arrangement, six expanding head segments 40A-F are employed, each of which covers an arc length of 60 degrees. In one preferred expansion tool arrangement, the expansion tool 10 is configured to rotate the expansion head segments 40A-F18 degrees at each rotation, such that 20 rotations are required before the original position of the expander head 30 is repeated.

As can be seen in FIG. 12, each of the dilator head segments 40A-F comprising the dilator head 30 comprises a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface comprises a plurality of grooves 32. In a preferred arrangement, these grooves 32 comprise a plurality of trapezoidal grooves geometrically configured to mate with a plurality of tabs 168 disposed on a drive collar engagement surface 164 of the drive collar 160 (see fig. 5 and 6). Thus, when the drive collar 160 is driven in a clockwise direction during punch expansion, the expander head 30 also rotates a predetermined amount when engaged to the drive collar 160 prior to expansion of the expander head 30. These trapezoidal grooves 32 also help guide movement of the expander head segments 40A-F in the radial direction for uniform expansion during head expansion.

As can be seen in FIG. 13, each of the six head sections 40A-F includes an outer surface. As just one example, the dilator head section 40A includes an outer surface 42. As shown, the outer surface 42A of the head section 40A includes a plurality of features. For example, the outer surface 42A of the dilator head section 40A includes a plurality of ribs 44A disposed near the distal end 50A of the dilator head section 40A. In addition, the outer surface 42A of the dilator head section 40A also includes a first distal groove 46A and a second proximal groove 48A. In a preferred arrangement, each of the remaining dilator head elements 40B-F of the dilator head 30 includes a similar rib and groove arrangement. The ribs 44A are formed near the frustoconical ends of the dilator head sections 40A-F and provide a higher friction force during tube expansion. The first and second groove arrangements 46A and 48A may be used with O-rings to enable the segments (see first groove arrangement 46 and second groove arrangement 48 in fig. 1) to be returned after head expansion. In other arrangements, a clamping spring may also be used to enable the expander head to return the expander head segment after expansion. In a preferred embodiment, each of the remaining dilator head elements 40B-F of the dilator head 30 includes similar first and second groove arrangements.

Fig. 14A is a perspective view of a pump and valve system that may be used with a dilation tool, such as the dilation tool shown in fig. 1. As shown, the pump and valve system includes a solenoid 300, a pilot valve 340, a pressure relief valve 350, a pump 210, and a main valve 390. FIG. 14B is a schematic view of the pump and valve system shown in FIG. 14A, wherein like elements are designated with like reference numerals.

In addition, fig. 15 shows a perspective view of the main valve 390 shown in fig. 14A and 14B, and fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the main valve 390 of the expansion tool shown in fig. 14A and 14B. As shown in FIG. 15, the main valve 390 includes a port or routing arrangement for controlling fluid flow out of and back into the fluid reservoir 230. Specifically, the main valve 390 includes a port or path 392 to the reservoir 230, a port or path 394 to the cylindrical cover, another port or path 396 to the cylinder, and a port or path 398 to the pump 210.

Referring now to fig. 14A-B, 15 and 16, during the expansion sequence, as primary and secondary punches 80, 100 continue to expand in the distal direction, pressure will build up inside actuator 70. During the expansion sequence, the main ram 80 reaches the main ram hard stop collar 92 and the pressure within the cylinder 200 reaches a predetermined transduction set point. The pressure sensor 240 will monitor the pressure within the cylinder 200. Once the predetermined transduction set point is reached, the motor 194 will be deactivated. When the set point is reached, valve solenoid 300 is energized, and this will open pilot drain valve 340 to tank 230. Opening the pilot dump valve 340 also reduces the pressure on the main valve 390, causing the main valve 390 to change states. When fluid from the cylinder 200 flows back into the reservoir 230 through the pilot vent valve 340, this will reduce the pressure within the cylinder 200 and, as this internal pressure drops, will allow the main ram return spring 88 to force the main vent valve 390 closed.

Fig. 17 illustrates a close-up view of the pressure relief valve 350 illustrated in fig. 14A and 14B. As shown in fig. 17, the pressure relief valve 350 includes an O-ring 352, a regulator plug 354, a pressure relief valve spring 356, a poppet 358, and a ball 360. In one preferred arrangement, pressure relief valve 350 is configured to allow fluid to flow from actuator 70 back into tank 230 if the pressure within actuator 70 exceeds a predetermined set point.

Fig. 18 is a close-up view of the end of the stroke detecting member of the dilator tool 10 shown in fig. 1. As shown, the stroke sensing member end includes a pressure sensor 240. The pressure sensor 240 detects full ram expansion based on the pressure within the cylinder 200. For example, in one arrangement, the pressure sensor 240 will detect full ram expansion once a predetermined pressure set point is reached. In one exemplary arrangement, such a full ram expansion pressure set point may be on the order of about 7,000 to about 8,000 pounds per square inch (psi). In a preferred arrangement, once the pressure sensor 240 detects this pressure set point, the motor and pump will be deactivated. Retraction of primary punch 80 and secondary punch 100 in the proximal direction will be initiated. The pressure sensor 240 may be provided with a pressure connector 246 coupled to the sensor by a plurality of wires 244 for connection to a printed circuit board provided within the expander tool 10.

The second end of the stroke detecting member includes a position sensor 250. In one preferred arrangement, such a position sensor 250 may take the form of a hall effect sensor. Such a position sensor 250 may be configured to detect the return of the full punch to an initial position, such as the initial positions of the primary punch 80 and the secondary punch 100 shown in fig. 1. The position sensor 250 causes the motor and pump to activate the next expansion stroke. In one preferred arrangement, the position sensor 250 may be configured to detect a magnetic ring 98 (see fig. 4) disposed within a groove 96 on the outer surface of the main punch 80.

Fig. 19 illustrates an exemplary method of operating a dilator tool, such as dilator tool 10 shown in fig. 1. In step 410, referring now also to fig. 20, a user input from a trigger activates the motor 194 (see, e.g., trigger 620 shown in fig. 23). In a preferred method, motor 194 is electronically locked if the trigger remains activated for a predetermined period of time. Such a predetermined period of time may be greater than one second, for example. One advantage of this trigger lock function is that the user does not have to remain triggered for the duration of the stroke. One advantage of such trigger locking is to prevent user fatigue and also to allow the user of the expansion tool to support the tool or workpiece as desired. Additionally, in one embodiment, when the trigger lock is enabled, the trigger lock may also provide additional trigger pull of the user to the forward stroke interruption. This would allow the user to forgo dilation if desired.

In step 420, a pressure differential is created across the main purge valve 390 and moves the main purge valve to a closed position. In step 430, fluid is drawn from the rear reservoir 230 and into the pump chamber, and then pumped to the actuator 70. In step 440, secondary punch 100 begins to expand in the distal direction as fluid is pumped into actuator 70. As such, secondary ram 100 begins to compress secondary ram return spring 110. In step 450, when the secondary punch 100 begins to expand in the distal direction, the secondary punch 100 also drives the cam roller carrier 120 in the distal direction toward the expansion head 30. As such, the cam roller 130 is urged in a distal direction through a cam or groove 182 provided on the reciprocating cam 180. In step 460, the reciprocating cam 180 rotates in the clutch locking direction and transmits torque to the drive collar 160. In step 470, the torque is transferred to the expander head segments 40A-F that make up the head 30.

In step 480, secondary punch hard stop 112 of secondary punch 100 engages inner primary punch hard stop 94 of primary punch 80. For example, fig. 21 shows a perspective view of the dilator tool 10 shown in fig. 20 during a head dilation sequence. In step 490, main punch 80 continues to expand in the distal direction as pressure continues to build within actuator 70. In step 500, the dilator cone 140 is pushed distally into the dilator head 30 and against the dilator head segments 40A-F. In step 510, the dilator head segments 40A-F are moved radially outward to expand the dilator head outer diameter. In step 520, the PEX tube inner diameter is pulled apart.

In step 530, referring now to fig. 22, a perspective view of the expander tool 10 during an expansion sequence is shown, wherein the main ram 80 reaches the main ram hard stop collar 92 and the pressure within the cylinder 200 reaches a predetermined transduction setting. In step 540, once the predetermined transduction set point is reached, motor 194 is deactivated. In this way, the motor and user input (i.e., trigger) may be disabled until full retraction of both the primary ram 80 and the secondary ram 100 is sensed, preferably by the position sensor 250. Such a full return sensing function disables the user from initiating another expansion stroke until the expansion tool is fully retracted. This may prevent the user from ignoring the auto-rotation function.

In step 550, the valve solenoid 300 is energized to open the pilot vent valve 340 to the tank 230. In step 560, the internal pressure drops and thereby allows the return spring to force the main dump valve 390 open. In step 570, the primary ram 80 begins to retract under the force generated by compressed primary ram return spring 88 and the secondary ram 100 under the force generated by compressed secondary ram return spring 110. As shown in fig. 1, both primary punch 80 and secondary punch 100 move in a proximal direction to return to the initial position of expansion tool 10.

In step 580, the dilator cone 140 is withdrawn from the dilator head 30 and the dilator head segments 40A-F begin to fold to the closed position. In one embodiment, folding of the dilator head segments 40A-F may be assisted by one or more O-rings disposed in the first and/or second grooves 46, 48 provided in the dilator head 30, as previously described.

In step 590, as the main punch 80 approaches the fully retracted position (see fig. 1), the cam roller 130 is pulled through the cam or groove 182 provided on the reciprocating cam 180. In this manner, the reciprocating cam 180 rotates in the clutch free-wheeling direction, thereby resetting the actuator 70 for subsequent expansion.

In step 592, when the main punch 80 reaches its fully retracted or initial position, the position sensor 250 detects the magnetic ring 98 disposed in the proximal recess 96 of the main punch 80. In step 594, main ram 80 is returned to its initial position (see fig. 1), causing motor 194 and user input to be reactivated for a subsequent expansion stroke. Thus, when activated, the expansion tool 10 is either advanced or retracted, and the user cannot hold the expansion tool 10 in any single expanded position. One advantage of this is that the user is prevented from holding the tube in the expanded position.

Fig. 23 shows an exemplary dilator tool housing arrangement 600 for use with a dilator tool, such as dilator tool 10 shown in fig. 1. In particular, FIG. 23 shows a tool 600 that is operable to expand the distal end of a tube, and which has an advantageous arrangement of the tool handle relative to the working end of the tool. Fig. 24 shows a proposed layout for the exemplary dilator tool housing arrangement shown in fig. 23.

Referring now to fig. 23 and 24, the tool 600 includes a working end 608 disposed at a distal end 610. The working tip 608 includes a dilator head including a plurality of dilator head segments 612 as described herein. As previously described, these dilator head sections 612 are movable between a closed position (as shown) and an expanded position. These dilator head sections 612 are also rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the tool 600. Dilator head segment 612 may operate in the same or similar manner as segments 40A-F described above with respect to fig. 1-22. In general, the dilator head section 612 may be the end of a tube operable to insert the dilating section therein. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the tool 600 may be a Very Large Diameter (VLD) dilator. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the tool 600 may be a hydraulic expansion tool. In particular, the expansion tool 600 may use hydraulics to facilitate operation of the tool and expansion of the pipe ends. As described above, the tool 600 may be used to expand the tip of a PEX tube. However, the tool 600 may be used in other applications as well.

In practice, the expansion tool may require a large amount of energy to produce a certain amount of counter torque that will successfully expand a tube, such as a PEX tube. Different sized tubes and different materials of tubes may require expansion tools that generate different amounts of reactive torque. In one example, the tool 600 is a ten (10) ton compression tool having a one (1) inch jaw opening. Other examples are possible. For example, the tool 600 may accommodate tons greater or less than ten (10) tons, and the jaw opening may also be greater or less than one (1) inch.

The tool 600 also includes a body 614 connected to the working end 608. The main body 614 may house a tool member, such as an internal tool member, to facilitate operation of the jaws and hydraulic member. In one preferred arrangement, the body includes the expansion tool 10 shown and described herein.

In addition, the body 614 includes a handle 616, the handle 616 being disposed at the proximal end 518 along a vertical axis of the tool 600. As shown, the handle 616 is configured to be gripped in an orientation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tool. The tool 600 further includes a trigger 620 disposed on the handle 616, and the trigger 620 is configured to be activated by movement of the trigger along a vertical axis of the tool 600. The user may activate the trigger 620 to initiate and/or control operation of the working tip 608. In one example, movement of the trigger along the vertical axis includes movement in a proximal direction along the vertical axis. For example, the user may activate the trigger 620 by pulling the user's trigger finger downward or downwardly in a vertical direction along the vertical axis of the tool 600. In another example, the trigger movement may include movement in different directions, such as movement in a longitudinal direction. For example, the trigger may be configured to move in a distal longitudinal direction. Other exemplary trigger movements are also possible.

Tool 600 also includes shackle 622 disposed at distal end 624 along a vertical axis of tool 600. Shackle 622 may be used to connect a carabiner, lanyard, sling, or some other similar device.

The tool further forms a substantially flat surface 630. One advantage of such a flat surface 630 is that it enables a bench-top user of the expansion tool. Another advantage of such a surface 630 is that it allows for a second hand placement for vertical riser applications.

In the example shown in fig. 23, the trigger 620 is located on the longitudinal proximal side 617 of the handle. However, in other examples, trigger 620 may be located at other locations at or near handle 616, such as longitudinally distal of handle 616. Further, a handle 616 is positioned proximal to the working end 608 along the longitudinal axis. This proximal placement allows the working end 608 to be fully inserted into the tube without the handle 616 causing an obstruction.

In an exemplary embodiment, the tool 600 may include one or more additional supports (e.g., handles) that provide the user with additional ways to support the tool. Providing additional support during handling or transport of the tool 600 may be helpful to a user. For example, the tool 600 includes a side handle attachment portion 650, and a side handle 656 can be inserted into the side handle attachment portion 650. Fig. 23 shows the side handle 656 inserted into the side handle attachment portion 650. Other additional supports are also possible.

The tool 600 also includes a worklight 660 and a lock switch 670.

In an exemplary embodiment, the tool 600 may be operated by a single-handed user. By being configured for single-handed operation by a user, the user can use his or her free hand to position and/or stabilize the tube being dilated.

Advantageously, the tool according to the present invention provides exemplary advantages over existing tools for expanding a tube or an end of a tube. For example, with the unique disclosed orientation of the handle, the tool 600 provides the user with the ability to manipulate the tool in a variety of orientations and in a compact space to facilitate operation of the tool. As described above, a technician may use the tool 600 to repair and/or install a pipe, and such repair or installation work may require the technician to work in tight spaces and use the tool in different locations. As a particular example, a technician may need to use the tool to install or repair a pipe located on the floor, on a sidewall, or on the top. Furthermore, the tubes may be arranged in a plurality of different orientations. For example, the end of the pipe to be expanded may be at a vertical downward, vertical upward, longitudinal leftward, longitudinal rightward, or many other angles.

It may be difficult or impossible to use existing expansion tools in such multiple orientations. However, because the tool 600 is configured to allow a user to operate the tool 600 in a variety of different and useful orientations, the user may use the tool in a variety of situations and locations where it would be difficult or impossible to operate existing tools. For example, the handle orientation according to the present disclosure advantageously allows a user to more easily use the tool in an overhead position relative to existing expansion tools. In addition, the orientation of the handle may allow the user to more easily support the expansion tool in an overhead position. Tools such as those weighing ten tons can be heavy, making it difficult not only to position the tool, but also to hold and support the tool during operation. The tool 600 advantageously allows a user to use the tool 600 in an overhead direction without bending or substantially bending the user's wrist. This may allow a user to more comfortably support the tool for overhead installation or repair work.

The exemplary embodiments have been described above. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made to these embodiments without departing from the true scope and subject matter of the invention. The description of the different advantageous embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, the different advantageous embodiments may provide different advantages compared to other advantageous embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to one of the exemplary embodiments (EEEs) listed below.

EEE1 is an expansion tool comprising: an actuator comprising a cylindrical housing defining an actuator housing cavity; a primary ram disposed within the actuator housing cavity, the primary ram defining an internal primary ram cavity; a secondary ram disposed within the inner primary ram cavity; a cam roller carrier coupled to a distal end of the secondary ram; a drive collar positioned within the distal end of the actuator housing cavity; a roller clutch disposed within an interior cavity defined by an inner surface of the drive shaft ring; a reciprocating cam positioned between the roller clutch and a distal end of the main ram; an expander cone coupled to the main punch; and a dilator head operably coupled to the drive collar.

EEE 2 is an expansion tool for EEE1 wherein the main punch comprises a proximal end and a distal end, the main punch further comprising a main punch flange at the proximal end of the main punch.

EEE 3 is an expansion tool for EEE 2 wherein the actuator housing cavity includes a main punch hard stop collar.

EEE4 is an expansion tool for EEE 3 in which a main punch return spring is disposed along an outer surface of the main punch between a main punch flange and a proximal face of a main punch hard stop collar.

EEE5 is the expansion tool of any one of EEE 1-EEE 4, wherein the secondary punch comprises a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the secondary punch comprises a secondary punch flange located at the proximal end of the secondary punch.

EEE 6 is an expansion tool for EEE5, wherein the inner primary punch cavity comprises a stepped cavity, and wherein a secondary punch return spring is disposed along an outer surface of the secondary punch between a secondary punch flange and a stepped surface of the stepped cavity.

EEE 7 is an expansion tool for EEE 6, wherein the secondary punch includes a ridge protruding outward from the outer surface of the secondary punch.

EEE 8 is the expansion tool of any one of EEEs 1-7, wherein the actuator housing cavity includes a main punch hard stop collar, and wherein the reciprocating cam is disposed along a distal face of the main punch hard stop collar.

EEE 9 is an expansion tool for EEE 8, wherein the roller clutch is configured to allow the drive collar to freely rotate on the reciprocating cam in a first rotational direction, and to allow the reciprocating cam to engage with the drive collar and rotate the drive collar in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

EEE 10 is an expansion tool for EEE 9, wherein the reciprocating cam includes an angled groove forming the cam, and wherein the cam roller is positioned in and configured to roll along an inner surface of the groove.

EEE 11 is the expanding tool of any one of EEEs 1-10, wherein when the expanding tool is triggered, the secondary ram moves in a distal direction causing the cam roller to move causing the reciprocating cam and the drive collar to rotate about the primary ram, and wherein when the drive collar rotates, the expander head rotates a predetermined amount of rotation.

EEE 12 is an expanding tool of EEE 11, wherein the secondary punch comprises a ridge protruding outwardly from an outer surface of the secondary punch, wherein the inner primary punch cavity comprises a stepped cavity, and wherein the expander head is rotated until the ridge of the secondary punch reaches a stepped surface of the stepped cavity.

EEE 13 is the expanding tool of EEE 12, wherein the expander head comprises a plurality of expander head segments, rotation of the expander head is stopped when the ridges of the secondary punch reach the stepped surface of the stepped cavity, the secondary punch and the primary punch move together in a distal direction, pushing the expander cone towards the expander head, radially expanding the plurality of expander head segments.

EEE 14 is the expansion tool of any one of EEE 1-EEE 13, wherein the cam roller bracket is cylindrical and includes a cam roller at a distal end of the cam roller bracket.

EEE 15 is the expansion tool of any one of EEE1 to EEE 14, further comprising: a cylindrical body operably coupled to the cylindrical housing of the actuator, wherein the cylindrical body defines a cylinder chamber.

EEE 16 is an expansion tool for EEE 15, wherein the actuator housing cavity and cylinder cavity together house the primary and secondary punches and accommodate movement of the primary and secondary punches.

EEE 17 is the expansion tool of any one of EEE1 to EEE 16, wherein the drive collar includes an engagement face having a plurality of tabs.

EEE 18 is the expansion tool of EEE 17, the proximal surface of the expander head comprising a plurality of grooves that geometrically match the plurality of lugs of the engagement face of the drive collar such that: when the expansion tool is activated, the secondary ram moves in a distal direction causing the cam roller to move causing the reciprocating cam and the drive collar to rotate about the primary ram and the expander head to rotate a predetermined amount of rotation when the drive collar is rotated.

EEE 19 is an expansion tool for EEE 18, the plurality of lugs comprising a trapezoidal geometric configuration, and the plurality of grooves of the expander head being trapezoidal to match the trapezoidal geometric configuration of the plurality of lugs.

EEE 20 is the dilation tool of any one of EEEs 1-19, the dilator head comprising a dilator head section, and wherein an outer surface of a plurality of dilator head sections comprises a plurality of ribs disposed near a frustoconical end of the dilator head.

EEE 21 is the expansion tool of any one of EEE1 to EEE 20, further comprising: a motor and a pump, activation of the motor causing the pump to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to the actuator housing cavity causing the secondary ram to move in the distal direction.

The EEE 22 is an expansion tool for the EEE 21, the pressure sensor configured to provide pressure sensor information indicative of a pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the actuator housing cavity, wherein the electric motor is deactivated when the pressure sensor senses that the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the actuator housing cavity has reached a predetermined pressure level.

The EEE 23 is an expansion tool for the EEE 22 and a drain valve connects the actuator housing cavity to the reservoir, wherein the drain valve is activated after the electric motor is deactivated to provide a path for hydraulic fluid in the actuator housing cavity to flow to the reservoir.

EEE 24 is the expansion tool of any one of EEE1 to EEE 23, further comprising: a magnetic ring disposed along an outer surface of the main punch; and a position sensor disposed at the proximal end of the cylindrical housing, the position sensor configured to detect the magnetic ring to determine a position of the main ram within the actuator housing cavity.

Claims (20)

1. An actuator for use with a hydraulic tool comprising:

a housing defining a first cavity;

a primary punch disposed within the first cavity, the primary punch defining a second cavity;

a secondary ram disposed within the second cavity;

a drive collar positioned within a distal end of the first cavity and rotatable about the main ram; and

a reciprocating cam located at a distal end of the main punch, the reciprocating cam moving with the main punch and the reciprocating cam being rotatable relative to the main punch.

2. The actuator of claim 1, wherein the reciprocating cam is coupled to the main ram such that the reciprocating cam is adapted to move with the main ram at a proximal end thereof.

3. The actuator of claim 1, wherein the reciprocating cam is coupled to the main ram such that the reciprocating cam is adapted to move with the main ram at a distal end thereof.

4. The actuator of claim 1, wherein the reciprocating cam is operatively coupled to the primary ram by way of a snap ring.

5. The actuator of claim 1, further comprising a roller clutch disposed in an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the drive collar.

6. A hydraulic tool comprising:

a housing defining a first cavity;

a primary punch disposed within the first cavity, the primary punch defining a second cavity;

a secondary ram disposed within the second cavity;

a drive collar positioned within a distal end of the first cavity and rotatable about the main ram;

an expander cone coupled to the main punch, an

A reciprocating cam located at a distal end of the main punch, the reciprocating cam moving with the main punch and the reciprocating cam being rotatable about the main punch.

7. A hydraulic tool as in claim 6 further comprising an expander head operatively coupled to the drive collar.

8. A hydraulic tool as in claim 6 further comprising a cam roller bracket coupled to a distal end of the secondary ram.

9. A hydraulic tool as in claim 6 wherein the main punch further comprises a proximal end, the main punch further comprising a main punch flange at the proximal end of the main punch.

10. A hydraulic tool as in claim 9 further comprising a main ram hard stop collar disposed in the first cavity.

11. A hydraulic tool as in claim 10 wherein a main ram return spring is disposed along an outer surface of the main ram and between the main ram flange and a proximal surface of the main ram hard stop collar.

12. A hydraulic tool as in claim 6 wherein the secondary ram comprises a proximal end and a distal end, the secondary ram further comprising a secondary ram flange at the proximal end of the secondary ram.

13. A hydraulic tool as in claim 12 wherein the second cavity of the primary ram comprises a stepped cavity.

14. A hydraulic tool as in claim 13 wherein a secondary ram return spring is provided along an outer surface of the secondary ram between the secondary ram flange and the stepped surface of the stepped cavity.

15. A PEX dilation tool comprising a dilator head, the PEX dilation tool further comprising:

an actuator comprising a housing defining a first cavity;

a primary punch disposed within the first cavity, the primary punch defining a second cavity;

a secondary ram disposed within the second cavity;

a cam roller carrier coupled with a distal end of the secondary ram;

a drive collar positioned within a distal end of the first cavity, the dilator head operably coupled to the drive collar, and the drive collar rotatable about the primary ram;

a roller clutch disposed in an internal cavity defined by an inner surface of the drive collar;

a reciprocating cam located at a distal end of the main punch and moving together with the main punch and being rotatable around the main punch; and

an expander cone coupled to the main punch,

the secondary punch includes a ridge projecting outwardly from an outer surface of the secondary punch.

16. The PEX expansion tool of claim 15, wherein the first cavity comprises a primary punch hard stop collar, the reciprocating cam being disposed along a distal face of the primary punch hard stop collar.

17. The PEX expansion tool of claim 15, wherein the roller clutch is adapted to allow the drive collar to freely rotate on the reciprocating cam in a first rotational direction.

18. The PEX expansion tool of claim 17, wherein said roller clutch is adapted to allow said reciprocating cam to engage said drive collar and rotate said drive collar in a second rotational direction opposite said first rotational direction.

19. The PEX dilation tool of claim 15 wherein the reciprocating cam comprises an angled groove forming the cam, and a cam roller located therein, the cam roller and configured to roll along an inner surface of the groove.

20. The PEX expanding tool of claim 15, wherein when said PEX expanding tool is triggered, said secondary ram moves in a distal direction causing said cam rollers to move causing said reciprocating cam and said drive collar to rotate about said primary ram.

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