TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to fluid piping and more specifically to an apparatus and system for flexible fluid piping and connectors used for coupling to the flexible fluid piping.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Double-containment distribution piping is typically used when transporting fluids that are hazardous producing materials (e.g., corrosive, acidic, highly active oxidizers, etc.). In a double-containment piping system, a primary pipe extends through an internal channel of a secondary pipe and is surrounded by the secondary pipe. The primary pipe is used to transport the fluids and the secondary pipe is used as a containment pipe in case the primary pipe cracks or otherwise fails.

[0003] In certain manufacturing environments, such as cleanroom environments, the machinery may be raised above the floor and supported by raised platforms, and the double- containment piping can transport fluids from a fluid supply container to the machinery. These raised platforms can generally raise the machinery up to three feet above the floor surface. In conventional systems, the piping can terminate near the floor surface along certain areas of the facility. Short-run piping can then be employed to extend from the termination point to the machinery or another termination point near a particular machine.

[0004] Installation of this short-run piping typically has to be completed in the small space between the floor surface and the raised platform, generally less than three feet of vertical space. Typically, installing these conventional short-run pipes requires the use of hot air guns to soften the pipe and/or flaring tools to expand the inner diameter of the pipe. This can be difficult, and in certain circumstances unsafe, in the small space between the floor surface and the raised platform. Further, use of compression fittings with ferrules is not desirable because the ferrules can be hard to control and ultimately dropped into the secondary piping or pop-outs between floors of the manufacturing facility, resulting in further downtime to breakdown the system and locate the lost ferrule.

[0005] In addition, as the size of the machinery has increased and the amount of fabrication capable of being done by the machinery has increased, the size (e.g., overall diameter) of the primary pipe had to be increased in order to provide added fluid material to the machinery. This increase in the size of the primary pipe has increased the space needed for routing the primary pipe and conversely increases the need for a secondary pipe that is capable of being routed in a smaller amount of space.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0006] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0007] Figures 1A-1D are various elevation, cross-sectional, and partially exploded views of a flexible pipe system, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0008] Figures 2A-2B are elevation and cross-sectional views of a compression nut for use with the flexible pipe system, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0009] Figure 3 is cross-sectional view of a double-contained pipe distribution system incorporating the flexible pipe system of Figures 1A-1D, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 is a piping system for a production facility incorporating the flexible pipe system of Figures 1A-1D, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the flexible pipe system of Figures 1A-1D, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Embodiments of the disclosure are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like, but not necessarily the same or identical, elements throughout.

[0013] In addition, certain relationships between dimensions of the flexible piping system and between features of the flexible piping system are described herein using the term "substantially." As used herein, the term "substantially" indicates that each of the described dimensions is not a strict boundary or parameter and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. Unless context or the description indicates otherwise, the use of the term "substantially" in connection with a numerical parameter indicates that the numerical parameter includes variations that, using mathematical and industrial principles accepted in the art (e.g. , rounding, measurement or other systematic errors, manufacturing tolerances, etc.), would not vary the least significant digit.

[0014] Further, certain relationships between dimensions of the flexible piping system and between features of the flexible piping system are described herein using the term "substantially equal". As used herein, the term "substantially equal" indicates that the equal relationship is not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom. Unless context or the description indicates otherwise, the use of the term "substantially equal" in connection with two or more described dimensions indicates that the equal relationship between the dimensions includes variations that, using mathematical and industrial principles accepted in the art (e.g. , rounding, measurement or other systematic errors, manufacturing tolerances, etc.), would not vary the least significant digit of the dimensions. As used herein, the term "substantially constant" indicates that the constant relationship is not a strict relationship and does not exclude functionally similar variations therefrom.

[0015] Embodiments of the disclosure may provide a flexible tubing apparatus that is configured to be connected to a piping system with a compression nut and without the use of a compression ring or ferrule. In one example, the flexible tubing apparatus may include a first end and a distal second end. Flexible tubing may be provided between the first and the second end. In one example the flexible tubing may be flexible corrugated tubing; however, other forms of flexible plastic tubing may be used in place of the corrugated tubing. The flexible tubing apparatus may include an opening at each end and an inner diameter defining a channel extending between the openings and through the flexible tubing apparatus. The flexible tubing apparatus can also include a nipple or smooth outer surface adjacent each end. One or both of the nipples can have an outer diameter and a ridge disposed along a portion of the nipple. The ridge can extend around the circumference of the nipple and have an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the remainder of the nipple. The ridge can be positioned along an end of the nipple at the first and/or second end of the flexible tubing apparatus. In certain examples, the outer diameter of the ridge can be substantially equal to, equal to, or slightly greater than the inner diameter of the pipe to which the flexible tubing apparatus will be coupled at that particular end. The flexible tubing apparatus can further include threaded sections near each end and spaced inwardly from the respective nipple sections. The flexible tubing apparatus can also include a static hex nut near each end and spaced inwardly of the respective threaded sections. Each static hex nut can be coupled to or otherwise integrally formed with all or at least a portion of the flexible tubing apparatus such that it does not rotate or move separately and distinctly from the remaining portions of the flexible tubing apparatus. A compression nut can be provided for coupling each end of the flexible tubing apparatus to another pipe or pipe connection point.

[0016] Further, embodiments of the disclosure may provide a flexible tubing apparatus that is configured to be connected to piping system without need for heating or flaring of the existing piping. For example, a pipe can be slid over the nipple and ridge along one end of the flexible tubing apparatus and can continue to about where the threads begin. The compression nut can then be rotated onto the threads of the flexible tubing apparatus. The compression nut can include an inner channel with a reducing inner diameter. As the compression nut is rotated onto the threads, it moves along the pipe and towards the static hex nut on the flexible tubing apparatus. As it moves towards the static hex nut, the inner diameter of the compression nut reduces and begins to compress the pipe onto the ridge disposed inside the pipe to create a leak-proof seal.

[0017] Further, embodiments of the disclosure may provide an elevated platform piping system that incorporates the use of the flexible tubing apparatus to connect piping located adjacent to the floor to piping located adjacent to the raised platform above the floor and can bend in multiple directions between the two locations.

[0018] Figure 1A is a side elevation view of a flexible piping system 100, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Figure IB is a side elevation view of the flexible piping system 100 of Figure 1A with one of the compression nuts removed from one end, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 1C is a cross-sectional view of the flexible piping system 100 of Figure 1A showing the internal channel or passageway 134 of the system, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Figure ID is partially-exploded view of the flexible piping system 100 of Figure 1A, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Referring now to Figures 1A-1D, the example flexible piping system 100 can include a first end 104 and a distal second end 106 and can extend along a longitudinal axis A of the piping system 100. Between the first end 104 and the second end 106 the flexible piping system 100 can include a flexible means 102 that allows at least a portion of the flexible piping system 100 to bend in multiple directions.

[0019] In one example embodiment, the flexible means 102 can be corrugated tubing 102. In another example embodiment, the flexible means 102 can be standard plastic tubing without corrugations 1 17 that is flexible and capable of being bent in multiple directions between each end 104, 106, thereof. In the example embodiment where the flexible means 102 is corrugated tubing 102, the corrugated tubing 102 can be made of plastic, metal, or alloys. For example, the corrugated tubing 102 can be made using a fluoropolymer such as perfiuoroalkoxy (PFA), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or any other form of plastic. The corrugated tubing 102 can include multiple corrugations 1 17 defined by alternating crests and troughs. The crests and troughs each define an outer diameter for the portion of the system 100 including the corrugated tubing 102. The corrugated tubing 102 also includes an inner cylindrical or substantially cylindrical wall defining a passageway or channel 134 that has an inner diameter that is less than the outer diameter of both the crests and troughs of the corrugated tubing 102.

[0020] In certain example embodiments, the corrugated tubing 102 can also include a first end that includes a nipple 1 16 or connection surface and a distal second end that includes another nipple 120 or connection surface. Each nipple 1 16, 120 or connection surface can have a passageway with an inner diameter that is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the rest of the corrugated tubing 102. The outer surface of each nipple can be smooth and have a constant or substantially constant outer diameter and can be configured to be coupled to or integrally formed with one or more connection means 180, 182 as discussed in greater detail below.

[0021] Along one end 104, the flexible piping system 100 can further include the first connection means 180 that is coupled to the nipple 120 of the corrugated tubing 102 or alternatively integrally formed with the corrugated tubing 102. In one example embodiment, the first connection means 180 can be coupled to the nipple 120 of the corrugated tubing 102 via thermal welding. In certain examples, the first connection means 180 can be constructed of plastic, such as, for example, any one of PFA, FEP, and PTFE plastic and preferably can be made out of PFA plastic. The first connection means 180 can include an opening 136 at each end and an inner wall having an inner diameter that defines a channel through the first connection means 180. The inner diameter of the wall for the first connection means 102 can be the same or substantially the same as the inner diameter of the corrugated tubing 102. When coupled to the corrugated tubing 102, the channel of the first connection means 180 aligns with the channel of the corrugated tubing 102.

[0022] The first connection means 180 can also include a nipple 124 or outer wall surface adjacent the first end 104. In one example, the nipple 124 has a smooth outer surface with a constant or substantially constant outer diameter. The nipple 124 can further include a ridge 122 or raised surface disposed along a portion of the nipple 124. In one example, the ridge 122 can extend around the circumference of the nipple 124 and have an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the remainder of the nipple 124. The ridge 122 can be positioned along an end of the nipple 122 immediately adjacent to the opening 136 and at the first end 104 of the flexible tubing apparatus 100. In certain examples, the outer diameter of the ridge 122 can be configured to be substantially equal to, equal to, or slightly greater than the inner diameter of the pipe or connection point to which the first end 104 of the flexible tubing apparatus 100 will be coupled.

[0023] The first connection means 180 can further include a threaded section 126 spaced inwardly from the nipple 124 towards the corrugated tubing 102, along the longitudinal axis A. In certain example embodiments, the threaded section 126 can include multiple threads disposed along an outer surface of the first connection means 180 in a helical manner and can be configured to receive a corresponding compression nut 118 rotatably coupled thereto. In certain example embodiments, the threads on the threaded section 126 can have an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the nipple 124 and the ridge 122. Further, the intersection of the nipple 124 and the threaded section 126 can be a wall or angled surface that defines a pipe stop such that when a pipe is coupled to the first end 104, the inner wall of the pipe slides over the ridge 122 and nipple and the leading edge of the pipe contacts the pipe stop and prevents the pipe from sliding over the threaded section 126.

[0024] The first connection means 180 can also include gripping means 128 for gripping the first connection means 180 as it is coupled to a pipe. In one example embodiment, the gripping means is a static hex nut 128 positioned near the first end 104 and spaced inwardly of the threaded section 128 along the longitudinal axis A of the flexible pipe system 100. In other example embodiments, the gripping means 128 can be any type of nut (e.g., square nut, wing nut) a friction increasing surface (e.g., studded outer surface, friction increasing material, etc.) or another configuration that makes the generally round outer surface of the flexible piping system 100 easier to grip. Each gripping means 128 can be coupled to or otherwise integrally formed with all or at least a portion of the first connection means 180 such that it does not rotate or move separately and distinctly from the remaining portions of the first connection means 180 and the flexible tubing apparatus 100. A coupling means 118, such as a compression nut 1 18, can be provided for rotatably coupling the first end 104 of the first connection means 180 to another pipe or pipe connection point. The compression nut 118 can be rotated onto the threaded section 126 of the first connection means. The compression nut 1 18 can include opening 210 defined by a front end 205 of the compression nut 118 and an inner channel 210 with an inner wall 215, 220, 230 that has a reducing inner diameter, as shown in Figure 2B. As the compression nut is rotated onto the threads, and without the use of a ferrule or compression ring it moves along the pipe and towards the gripping means 128 on the flexible tubing apparatus 100. As it moves towards the gripping means 128, the inner diameter of the compression nut reduces 215 to 220 to 230 and begins to compress the pipe onto the ridge 122 disposed inside the pipe to create a leak-proof seal without the need for a ferrule or compression ring.

[0025] Along the second end 106, the flexible piping system 100 can further include the second connection means 182 that is coupled to the nipple 116 of the corrugated tubing 102 or alternatively integrally formed with the corrugated tubing 102. In one example embodiment, the second connection means 182 can be coupled to the nipple 116 of the corrugated tubing 102 via thermal welding. In certain examples, the second connection means 182 can be constructed of plastic, such as, for example, any one of PFA, FEP, and PTFE plastic and preferably can be made out of PFA plastic. The second connection means 182 can include an opening 132 at each end and an inner wall having an inner diameter that defines a channel through the second connection means 182. The inner diameter of the wall for the second connection means 182 can be the same or substantially the same as the inner diameter of the corrugated tubing 102. When coupled to the corrugated tubing 102, the channel of the second connection means 182 aligns with the channel of the corrugated tubing 102.

[0026] The second connection means 182 can also include a nipple 110 or outer wall surface adjacent the first end 106. In one example, the nipple 110 has a smooth outer surface with a constant or substantially constant outer diameter. The nipple 110 can further include a ridge 108 or raised surface disposed along a portion of the nipple 110 and extending radially outward therefrom with respect to the longitudinal axis A. In one example, the ridge 108 can extend around the circumference of the nipple 110 and have an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the remainder of the nipple 110. The ridge 108 can be positioned along an end of the nipple 110 immediately adjacent to the opening 132 and at the second end 106 of the flexible tubing apparatus 100. In certain examples, the outer diameter of the ridge 108 can be configured to be substantially equal to, equal to, or slightly greater than the inner diameter of the pipe or connection point to which the second end 106 of the flexible tubing apparatus 100 will be coupled.

[0027] The second connection means 108 can further include a threaded section 112 spaced inwardly from the nipple 110 towards the corrugated tubing 102, along the longitudinal axis A. In certain example embodiments, the threaded section 112 can include multiple threads disposed along an outer surface of the second connection means 182 in a helical manner and can be configured to receive a corresponding compression nut 118 (see Figures 2A-2B) rotatably coupled thereto. In certain example embodiments, the threads on the threaded section 112 can have an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the nipple 110 and the ridge 108. Further, the intersection of the nipple 110 and the threaded section 112 can be a wall or angled surface 130 that defines a pipe stop 130 such that when a pipe is coupled to the second end 106, the inner wall of the pipe slides over the ridge 108 and nipple and the leading edge of the pipe contacts the pipe stop 130 and prevents the pipe from sliding over the threaded section 1 12.

[0028] The second connection means 182 can also include gripping means 1 14 for gripping the second connection means 182 and the remainder of the flexible piping system 100 attached thereto as it is coupled to a pipe. In one example embodiment, the gripping means 114 is a static hex nut 1 14 positioned near the second end 106 and spaced inwardly of the threaded section 1 12 along the longitudinal axis A of the flexible pipe system 100. In other example embodiments, the gripping means 114 can be any type of nut (e.g., square nut, wing nut), a friction increasing surface (e.g., studded outer surface, friction increasing material, etc.), or another configuration that makes the generally round outer surface of the flexible piping system 100 easier to grip. Each gripping means 1 14 can be coupled to, or otherwise integrally formed with, and fixed to all or at least a portion of the second connection means 182 such that it does not rotate or move separately and distinctly from the remaining portions of the second connection means 182 and the flexible tubing apparatus 100. A coupling means 1 18 (see Figures 2A-2B), such as a compression nut 118, can be provided for rotatably coupling the second end 106 of the second connection means 182 to another pipe or pipe connection point.

[0029] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the flexible piping system 100 can be part of a double-containment piping system. The double-containment piping system 300 can include a primary pipe 305. The primary pipe 305 can have an inner surface having an inner diameter that defines a channel 134 for fluids to flow through the primary pipe 305. The primary pipe 305 can also have an outer surface or wall having an outer diameter. The outer diameter of the primary pipe 305 is less than the inner diameter of the inner wall flexible piping system 100 such that the primary pipe 305 can extend through the channel 134 of the flexible piping system 100 in the longitudinal direction A. As such, the flexible piping system 100 can fully encompass the portion of the primary pipe 305 that extends therethrough and capture any fluids that might leak out of the primary pipe 305 in the event of a leak or rupture in the primary pipe 305. The flexible piping system 100 can be removably coupled to another secondary pipe 310 through which the primary pipe 305 passes. The secondary pipe 310 can have an inner wall that has an inner diameter that is equal to or substantially equal to the outer diameter of the ridge 108 on the second end 106 of the second connection means. The secondary pipe 310 can be slid over the ridge 108 (which has a friction fit with the inner wall of the secondary pipe 310) and the nipple 1 10 until the secondary pipe 310 contacts or is disposed adjacent to the pipe stop 130 at the junction of the nipple 1 10 and the threaded section 1 12. The secondary pipe 310 is slidably placed onto the second connection means 182 without use of a ferrule or compression ring.

[0030] A compression nut 315 can be rotated onto the threaded section 112 of the second connection means 182 in the direction X, as shown in Figure 3. The compression nut 315 can include an opening 210 defined by a front end 205 of the compression nut 118 and an inner channel 210 with an inner wall 215, 220, 230 that has a reducing inner diameter, as shown in Figure 2B. As the compression nut 315is rotated onto the threads 1 12, and without the use of a ferrule or compression ring, it moves along the secondary pipe 310 and towards the gripping means 114 on the flexible tubing apparatus 100. As it moves towards the gripping means 1 14, the inner diameter of the compression nut reduces 215 to 220 to 230 and begins to compress the secondary pipe 315 further down onto the ridge 108, now disposed inside the secondary pipe 310, to create a leak-proof seal between the flexible piping system 100 and the secondary pipe 315 without the need for a ferrule or compression ring.

[0031] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the flexible pipe system 100 of Figures 1A-1D, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in Figure 5, the corrugated tubing 102 can be expanded and contracted and bent in any of a number of directions as needed based on the location that it is being used. For example, the corrugated tubing 102 has a large number of corrugations 117 that allow the tubing 102 to be expanded 506 or compressed 502, 504 in one or more portions of the corrugated tubing 102. This ability of the corrugations 117 to expand 506 and/or compress 502, 504 in the corrugated tubing section 102 of the flexible pipe system 100 both allows the system 100 to be bent in many different directions as needed during installation and to fit into more confined spaces where the exact distance for each portion of the run of the tubing 102 may not be known until it is being installed. One example of this type of confined space piping system is discussed below with reference to Figure 4.

[0032] Figure 4 is a piping system 400 for a production facility incorporating the flexible pipe system 100 of Figures 1A-3, in accordance with one example embodiment of the disclosure. Referring now to Figures 1A-4, the example piping system 400 can include a multi-floor system that include a first floor 412 that includes a supply 410 of a fluid for use in a manufacturing machine 420. In certain example embodiments, the fluid supply can be a container 410 for holding fluid, and the fluid can be one of a number of hazardous producing materials, including, but not limited to, corrosive fluids, acidic fluids, and highly active oxidizers.

[0033] The manufacturing machine 420 can be provided in a clean-room environment on a floor 402 different from the first floor 412 upon which the fluid supply container is provided. For example, the manufacturing machine 420 can be located on the floor 402 that is above the first floor 412. The manufacturing machine 420 can be positioned on a raised platform that sits above the top surface of the second floor 402. The raised platform can include a horizontal surface 404 that is configured to receive the manufacturing machine 420 thereon and is held above the top surface of the second floor 402 by multiple platform legs 406, 408. In one example, the distance between the top surface of the second floor 402 and the horizontal surface 404 of the raised platform is about 24 inches, however, the horizontal surface 404 of the raised platform can be at a height greater or lesser than 24 inches above the top surface of the second floor 402 in other example embodiments. The second floor can also include one or more pop-outs 422 or passageways through the second floor. Each pop-out 422 can provide a passageway for piping to pass from the first floor 412 to the second floor 402.

[0034] In certain example embodiments, a one or more double-containment pipes 414 can run from the fluid supply container 410 on the first floor 412 up through the pop-out 422 to the second floor 402. The first end 104 of the flexible piping system 100 can be coupled to an end of the secondary pipe of the double-containment pipe 414 adjacent the pop-out 422. The second end 106 of the flexible piping system 100 can be coupled to a primary and secondary pipe connection point 416 at or adjacent to the horizontal surface 404 of the raised platform in manner substantially the same as that described with reference to Figure 3 above. The flexible piping system 100 can be bent in multiple different directions in the two foot space between the pop-out 422 and the primary and secondary pipe connection point 416 due to the flexibility of the flexible means 102 portion of the system 100. A primary pipe (not shown) can extend from the fluid supply container 410 through the channel 134 of the flexible piping system 100 and to a primary fluid pipe at the primary and secondary pipe connection point 416. The fluid can then run through another double-containment pipe system 418 to the manufacturing machine 420. [0035] Various features, aspects, and embodiments have been described herein. The features, aspects, and embodiments are susceptible to combination with one another as well as to variation and modification, as will be understood by those having skill in the art. The present disclosure should, therefore, be considered to encompass such combinations, variations, and modifications.

[0036] The terms and expressions which have been employed herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention, in the use of such terms and expressions, of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described (or portions thereof), and it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Other modifications, variations, and alternatives are also possible. Accordingly, the claims are intended to cover all such equivalents.

[0037] In example embodiments of the disclosure, there may be a piping apparatus. The piping apparatus may include a flexible tube having a first end and a distal second end. The piping apparatus may include a first connection assembly disposed along the second end. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface of the flexible tube adjacent the second end. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface of flexible tube between the second end and the plurality of coupling threads, the smooth outer surface having a first outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a raised ridge disposed along the outer surface of the flexible tube between the smooth outer surface and the second end, the raised ridge comprising a second outer diameter greater than the first outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may further include a static nut disposed adjacent the plurality of coupling threads. The piping apparatus may further include a compression nut coupled to the first connection assembly. The compression nut of the piping apparatus may be configured to be rotatably coupled to the plurality of coupling threads. The compression nut of the piping apparatus may be configured to compress a portion of a pipe between an inner surface of the compression nut and an outer surface of the raised ridge without the use of a compression ferrule. The piping apparatus may further include a second connection assembly disposed along the first end of the flexible tube. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface adjacent the second end. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface between the second end and the second plurality of coupling threads, the second smooth outer surface having a third outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second raised ridge disposed along the outer surface between the second smooth outer surface and the second end, the second raised ridge comprising a fourth outer diameter greater than the third outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second compression nut, wherein the second compression nut is configured to be rotatably coupled to the second plurality of coupling threads. The flexible tube of the piping apparatus may comprise corrugated tubing. The corrugated tubing of the piping apparatus may comprise a plurality of corrugations configured to be compressed and expanded. The flexible tube of the piping apparatus may include a third end and a distal fourth end, wherein the third end comprises a third smooth outer surface having a fifth outer diameter and wherein the fourth end comprises a fourth smooth outer surface having a sixth outer diameter. The piping apparatus may include a sixth outer diameter that is constant. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may be coupled to the flexible tube along the third smooth outer surface. The piping apparatus may further include a first outer diameter that is constant. The piping apparatus may further include a first connection assembly is integrally formed with the flexible tube.

[0038] In example embodiments of the disclosure there may be a fluid distribution system. The fluid distribution system may include a primary fluid pipe comprising a first outer diameter. The fluid distribution system may include a secondary fluid pipe having a termination end and an inner wall defining a channel having a first inner diameter, wherein the primary pipe extends through the channel of the secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may include a flexible connection pipe comprising a first end, a distal second end, and a channel disposed through the flexible connection pipe between the first and second ends. The second end may include a first connection assembly disposed along the second end. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface of the flexible tube adjacent the second end. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface of flexible tube between the second end and the plurality of coupling threads, the smooth outer surface having a second outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a raised ridge disposed along the outer surface of the flexible tube between the smooth outer surface and the second end, the raised ridge comprising a third outer diameter greater than the second outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a compression nut threadably coupled to the plurality of coupling threads, wherein the second end of the flexible connection pipe is slidably inserted into the termination end of the secondary fluid pipe and wherein the compression nut is configured to compress a portion of the secondary pipe between an inner surface of the compression nut and an outer surface of the raised ridge without the use of a compression ferrule. The fluid distribution system may further include the third outer diameter being substantially equal to the first inner diameter of the secondary fluid pipe. The raised ride of the fluid distribution system may provide a friction fit with the inner wall of the secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may further include the primary fluid pipe extending through at least a portion of the channel of the flexible connection pipe. The fluid distribution system may further include a floor surface. The fluid distribution system may further include a raised platform disposed over at least a portion of the floor surface. The fluid distribution system may further include the termination end of the secondary fluid pipe being positioned along the raised platform. The fluid distribution system may further include an opening in the floor surface. The fluid distribution system may further include a fluid supply connection disposed adjacent the opening in the floor surface. The fluid distribution system may further include the first end of the flexible connection pipe being coupled to the fluid supply connection. The fluid distribution system may further include a fluid supply container comprising fluid. The fluid distribution system may further include at least one second primary fluid pipe extending from the fluid supply container to the fluid supply connection. The fluid distribution system may further include at least one second secondary fluid pipe extending from the fluid supply container to the fluid supply connection, wherein the at least one second primary fluid pipe is disposed within an inner passageway of the at least one second secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may further include a vertical distance between the floor surface and the raised platform of less than or equal to two feet. The flexible connection pipe of the fluid distribution system may further include a flexible corrugated pipe comprising a first end and a distal second end, the corrugated pipe comprising a plurality of peaks and troughs. The flexible connection pipe of the fluid distribution system may further include a first nipple portion disposed along the first end of the corrugated pipe. The flexible connection pipe of the fluid distribution system may further include a second nipple portion disposed along the second end of the corrugated pipe; wherein each of the first and second nipple portions have an outer surface having a substantially constant outer diameter. The fluid distribution system may further include the first connection assembly being heat welded to the second nipple portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The fluid distribution system may further include the flexible corrugated pipe comprising a plurality of corrugations configured to be compressed and expanded. The fluid distribution system may further include the first connection assembly being coupled to the flexible corrugated pipe along the second nipple portion. The fluid distribution system may further include the first connection assembly comprising a static nut disposed adjacent the plurality of coupling threads. The fluid distribution system may further include a second connection assembly disposed along the first end of the flexible connection pipe. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface adjacent the second end. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface between the second end and the second plurality of coupling threads, the second smooth outer surface having a fourth outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second raised ridge disposed along the outer surface between the second smooth outer surface and the second end, the second raised ridge comprising a fifth outer diameter greater than the fourth outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second compression nut, wherein the second compression nut is configured to be rotatably coupled to the second plurality of coupling threads. The fluid distribution system may further include the second outer diameter being substantially constant. The fluid distribution system may include the first connection assembly being integrally formed with the flexible connection pipe.

[0039] In example embodiments of the disclosure, there may be a piping apparatus. The piping apparatus may include a tube comprising a flexible means having a first end, a distal second end, and an internal channel extending between the first and second ends. The piping apparatus may include a first connection assembly disposed along the second end. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a first means for coupling the apparatus to a second pipe, the first means disposed along an outer surface of the flexible tube adjacent the second end. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a nipple comprising a smooth outer surface disposed between the second end and the first means for coupling the apparatus, the smooth outer surface having a first outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a raised surface extending radially outward from the smooth outer surface of the nipple and disposed between the smooth outer surface and the second end, the raised surface comprising a second outer diameter greater than the first outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second means for coupling the apparatus to the second pipe, wherein the second means is configured to be removably coupled to the first means, wherein the second means is further configured to compress a portion of the second pipe between an inner surface of the second means and an outer surface of the raised surface without the use of a compression ferrule. The first connection assembly of the piping apparatus may further include a means for gripping the piping apparatus disposed adjacent the first means for coupling the apparatus to the second pipe. The piping apparatus may include the means for gripping the piping apparatus being one of a raised surface, a static nut, a studded outer surface, or a friction increasing material disposed along the outer surface of at least a portion of the first connection assembly. The piping apparatus may include the second means for coupling the apparatus being one of a nut or a compression nut. The piping apparatus may include the second means for coupling the apparatus being configured to be rotatably coupled to the first means for coupling the apparatus. The piping apparatus may include a second connection assembly disposed along the first end of the tube. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second first means for coupling the apparatus to the second pipe disposed along a second outer surface adjacent the second end. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second smooth outer surface disposed along the second outer surface between the second end and the second first means for coupling the apparatus, the second smooth outer surface having a third outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second raised ridge disposed along the outer surface between the second smooth outer surface and the second end, the second raised ridge comprising a fourth outer diameter greater than the third outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the piping apparatus may include a second second means for coupling the apparatus to the second pipe, wherein the second second means for coupling the apparatus is configured to be rotatably coupled to the second first means for coupling the apparatus. The piping apparatus may include the flexible means comprises one of corrugated tubing or flexible tubing. The piping apparatus may include the flexible means comprising corrugated tubing comprising a plurality of corrugations configured to be compressed and expanded. The piping apparatus may include the tube further comprising a third end and a distal fourth end, wherein the third end comprises a third smooth outer surface having a fifth outer diameter and wherein the fourth end comprises a fourth smooth outer surface having a sixth outer diameter. The piping apparatus may include the sixth outer diameter being constant. The piping apparatus may include the first connection assembly being coupled to the tube along the third smooth outer surface. The piping apparatus may include the first outer diameter being constant. The piping apparatus may include the first connection assembly being integrally formed with the tube. [0040] In example embodiments of the disclosure, there may be a fluid distribution system. The fluid distribution system may include a primary fluid pipe comprising a first outer diameter. The fluid distribution system may include a secondary fluid pipe having a termination end and an inner wall defining a channel having a first inner diameter, wherein the primary pipe extends through the channel of the secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may include a connection pipe comprising a first end, a distal second end, a flexible means for flexibly adjusting the position of the connection pipe disposed between the first and second ends, and a channel disposed through the connection pipe between the first and second ends, the second end comprising a first connection assembly disposed along the second end. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a first means for coupling the connection pipe to the secondary fluid pipe disposed along an outer surface of the connection pipe adjacent the second end. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface of connection pipe between the second end and the first means for coupling the connection pipe, the smooth outer surface having a second outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a raised ridge disposed along the outer surface of the connection pipe between the smooth outer surface and the second end, the raised ridge comprising a third outer diameter greater than the second outer diameter. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second means for coupling the connection pipe to the secondary fluid pipe removably coupled to the first means for coupling the connection pipe, wherein the second end of the connection pipe is slidably inserted into the termination end of the secondary fluid pipe and wherein the second means for coupling the connection pipe is configured to compress a portion of the secondary pipe between an inner surface of the second means for coupling the connection pipe and an outer surface of the raised ridge without the use of a compression ferrule. The first connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a means for gripping the connection pipe disposed adjacent the first means for coupling the connection pipe. The fluid distribution system may include the means for gripping the piping apparatus being one of a raised surface, a static nut, a studded outer surface, or a friction increasing material disposed along the outer surface of at least a portion of the first connection assembly. The fluid distribution system may include the second means for coupling the connection pipe being one of a nut or a compression nut. The fluid distribution system may include the second means for coupling the connection pipe being configured to be rotatably coupled to the first means for coupling the connection pipe. The fluid distribution system may include the third outer diameter being substantially equal to the first inner diameter of the secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may include the raised ridge providing a friction fit with the inner wall of the secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may include the primary fluid pipe extending through at least a portion of the channel of the connection pipe. The fluid distribution system may include a floor surface. The fluid distribution system may include a raised platform disposed over at least a portion of the floor surface. The fluid distribution system may include the termination end of the secondary fluid pipe being positioned along the raised platform. The fluid distribution system may include an opening in the floor surface. The fluid distribution system may include a fluid supply connection disposed adjacent the opening in the floor surface, wherein the first end of the connection pipe is coupled to the fluid supply connection. The fluid distribution system may include a fluid supply container comprising fluid. The fluid distribution system may include at least one second primary fluid pipe extending from the fluid supply container to the fluid supply connection. The fluid distribution system may include at least one second secondary fluid pipe extending from the fluid supply container to the fluid supply connection, wherein the at least one second primary fluid pipe is disposed within an inner passageway of the at least one second secondary fluid pipe. The fluid distribution system may include a vertical distance between the floor surface and the raised platform of less than or equal to two feet. The fluid distribution system may include the first connection assembly being heat welded to the corrugated pipe. The fluid distribution system may include the flexible means comprising one of corrugated tubing or flexible tubing. The fluid distribution system may include the flexible means comprising corrugated tubing comprising a plurality of corrugations configured to be compressed and expanded. The fluid distribution system may include a second connection assembly disposed along the first end of the connection pipe. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second first means for coupling the connection pipe to the secondary fluid pipe disposed along an outer surface adjacent the second end. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface between the second end and the second first means for coupling the connection pipe, the second smooth outer surface having a fourth outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second raised ridge disposed along the outer surface between the second smooth outer surface and the second end, the second raised ridge comprising a fifth outer diameter greater than the fourth outer diameter. The second connection assembly of the fluid distribution system may include a second second means for coupling the connection pipe, wherein the second second means for coupling the connection pipe is configured to be removably coupled to the second first means for coupling the connection pipe. The fluid distribution system may include the first connection assembly being integrally formed with the connection pipe.

[0041] In example embodiments of the disclosure, there may be a method of manufacturing a flexible piping apparatus. The method may include providing a flexible tube comprising a first end and a distal second end. The method may include coupling a first connection assembly to the second end of the flexible tube, the first connection assembly comprising a plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface of the flexible tube adjacent the second end; a smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface of flexible tube between the second end and the plurality of coupling threads, the smooth outer surface having a first outer diameter; and a raised ridge disposed along the outer surface of the flexible tube between the smooth outer surface and the second end, the raised ridge comprising a second outer diameter greater than the first outer diameter. The method may further include threadably coupling a compression nut to the plurality of coupling threads on the first connection assembly, wherein the compression nut is configured to compress a portion of a pipe between an inner surface of the compression nut and an outer surface of the raised ride without the use of a compression ferrule. The method may further include coupling a second connection assembly to the first end of the flexible tube. The method may further include the second connection assembly comprising a second plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface adjacent the second end, a second smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface between the second end and the second plurality of coupling threads, the second smooth outer surface having a third outer diameter, and a second raised ridge disposed along the outer surface between the second smooth outer surface and the second end, the second raised ridge comprising a fourth outer diameter greater than the third outer diameter. The method may further include the first connection assembly being coupled to the second end of the flexible tube by heat welding.

[0042] In example embodiments of the disclosure, there may be a method of coupling fluid piping. The method may include providing a secondary fluid pipe having a termination end and an inner wall defining a channel having a first inner diameter. The method may include providing a secondary fluid supply pipe comprising a supply end. The method may further include providing a flexible connection pipe comprising a first end, a distal second end, and a channel disposed through the flexible connection pipe between the first and second ends, the second end comprising a first connection assembly disposed along the second end, the first connection assembly comprising a plurality of coupling threads disposed along an outer surface of the flexible tube adjacent the second end, a smooth outer surface disposed along the outer surface of flexible tube between the second end and the plurality of coupling threads, the smooth outer surface having a second outer diameter, and a raised ridge disposed along the outer surface of the flexible tube between the smooth outer surface and the second end, the raised ridge comprising a third outer diameter greater than the second outer diameter, and a second connection assembly disposed along the first end. The method may include coupling the second connection assembly to the supply end of the secondary fluid supply pipe. The method may include routing the flexible connection pipe between the secondary fluid supply pipe and the secondary fluid pipe. The method may include inserting at least a portion of the first connection assembly into the termination end of the secondary fluid pipe, wherein the portion comprises the raised ridge. The method may include threadably coupling a compression nut to the plurality of coupling threads. The method may include compressing a portion of the secondary fluid pipe between an inner surface of the compression nut and an outer surface of the raised ridge without the use of a compression ferrule. The method may further include the portion of the secondary fluid pipe between the inner surface of the compression nut and the outer surface of the raised ridge creating an air-tight connection between the flexible connection pipe and the secondary fluid pipe. The method of routing the flexible connection pipe may include bending the flexible connection pipe in at least one direction. The method of routing the flexible connection pipe may include expanding the length of at least a portion of the flexible connection pipe along the longitudinal axis of the flexible connection pipe. The method of routing the flexible connection pipe may include compressing at least a portion of the length of the flexible connection pipe along the longitudinal axis of the flexible connection pipe. The method may further include the raised ridge providing a friction fit with the inner wall of the secondary fluid pipe. The method may further include the flexible connection pipe comprising a plurality of corrugations configured to be compressed and expanded.

[0043] While certain embodiments of the invention have been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only, and not for purposes of limitation. [0044] This written description uses examples to disclose certain example embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice certain embodiments of the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of certain embodiments of the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

[0045] Although example embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the example embodiments. Conditional language, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain example embodiments could include, while other example embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.