Abstract:
A slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler having an insertion portion and a housing portion which mate to form a sealed coupling between pipes. The coupler uniquely provides positive pipe coupling with extreme ease of disassembly or dis-connection of two pipes. The coupler utilizes a uniquely designed L-shaped tool which allows quick decoupling and easy removal of the separated insertion portion and attached pipes without the need for a plumbing technician to lean or crawl into the space occupied by the coupler.

Description:
[0001]     This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications No. 60/683,233, filed May 20 th , 2005, entitled Slip Fit Quick Disconnect Pipe Coupler and No. 60/763,043 filed Jan. 27 th , 2006, entitled Slip Fit Quick Disconnect Pipe Decoupling Tool. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     The art of the present invention relates to pipe couplers in general and more particularly to an improved slip fitting pipe coupler having a housing and insertion portion which is capable of inline coupling of pressurized pipes and further capable of quick disconnection without the use of specialized tools. The device and method of use represents an improvement over the prior art, often known as a pitless adaptor or pipe union, by providing a unique and quick pipe coupling and decoupling which does not require the use of pipe or other types of wrenches and may be manufactured at less cost, uniquely from polymers such as the NORYL® material from General Electric Plastics. The insertion portion positively locks with a bridge of said housing via an overhanging lip.  
         [0003]     Within septic pump tanks, wells, cisterns, sumps, industrial pits, and other liquid storage facilities, submersible or other types of pumps or other components are often suspended within or near a liquid, typically water, and connected via piping through the side walls of the aforesaid. Often a supply pipe is connected substantially vertically with said pump and then diverted (often substantially perpendicularly) through said side walls as an exiting or effluent pipe. In the aforesaid applications, it is desirable to quickly and easily remove said pump and supply pipe, without specialty tools, and without the necessity of a plumbing technician leaning or crawling into the aforesaid. The present art provides the desirable removal advantages via utilization of a simple, preferably L-shaped, removal or decoupling tool. The present art may be utilized as a quick pipe coupler in any pipe coupling application and in any orientation, including but not limited to horizontal, vertical, parallel, or combinations thereof.  
         [0004]     Removing the aforesaid pumps or other components from the aforesaid locations requires an easily detached slip fit pipe coupling adaptor. Prior art devices such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,311,770 issued Nov. 6, 2001 to Mullis, entitled: Pitless Adapter Assembly utilize a right angle adaptor with a slip fit which requires threaded insertion and mating of a pull pipe for removal. This prior art design by necessity is manufactured from a cast bronze or other non corrosive metallic material in order to provide the coupling strength for the embodiments described. The present art with its overhanging lip structure allows for inexpensive manufacturing via a molding process from polymers, such as the NORYL® material described, without sacrifice of mechanical strength. Also, unlike the prior art, the present art slip fit utilizes a double taper in both face breadth and channel/flange width which allows easy separation once initially separated with a simple removal tool. That is, the prior art channel and flange interface is not tapered and relies upon an elastomeric gasket (O-ring) to provide the necessary mating force. Unfortunately, when separating the prior art, the user must pull against this frictional force during the entire separation process. The present art tapered fit provides assured compression of the elastomeric gasket (O-ring) as the tapered portions seat and also allows for easy separation once the mating taper between the insertion portion and housing portion is initially separated. That is, the user is not required to pull against the frictional force created by the elastomeric gasket.  
         [0005]     The present art further provides user convenience when removing the insertion portion from the housing portion with the aid of a simple removal tool. That is, the removal tool utilizes a simple L-shaped extension which is connected with a shaft. The L-shaped tool fits within an opening between a strap member on the insertion portion and a bridge on the housing portion which extends through an opening in the insertion portion. A simple cant of the shaft allows the tapered fit to de-couple or separate between the two portions. Thereafter, easy removal of the insertion portion along with the pump or other components and attached pipe is achieved via the L-shaped member pulling the strap member. The L-shaped member is simply withdrawn when the aforesaid is removed without the need to thread and unthread a pull pipe. In a preferred embodiment, the removal tool has a narrow diameter portion which engages with the strap member for positive engagement and removal. Said removal tool may take forms other than an L-shape in alternative embodiments, including but not limited to straight shaft sections.  
         [0006]     Unlike the prior art, the present art provides an in-line coupling. The prior art is formed as a right-angle transition or pipe elbow. In many pipe coupling applications, in-line coupling is required. This necessity precludes utilization of the prior art. The inline coupling feature of the present art also allows a user to uncouple a straight line of pipe as well as utilize pipe elbows of various angles other than a right-angle for pipe coupling while providing the desired quick disconnection.  
         [0007]     Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler and method of use which promotes easily installation and quickly disconnection.  
         [0008]     Another object of the invention is to provide a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler and method of use which may be utilized in any pipe coupling application including but not limited to septic pump tanks, wells, cisterns, sumps, industrial pits, and other liquid storage facilities.  
         [0009]     A further object of the present invention is to provide a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler and method of use comprising an insertion portion which is easily removed from a housing portion.  
         [0010]     A still further object of the invention is to provide a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler which may be inexpensively manufactured and/or molded from polymer materials and retain the strength necessary to couple pressurized pipes.  
         [0011]     Another further object of the invention is to provide a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler and method of use which does not require specialized removal tools to separate the insertion portion from the housing portion.  
         [0012]     A yet further object of the invention is to provide a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler and method of use which does not require a plumbing or other type of technician to lean or crawl into the space occupied by the coupler for installation or removal.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0013]     To accomplish the foregoing and other objects of this invention there is provided a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler and method of use for easy connection and disconnection of pipes. In a preferred embodiment, the coupler provides an in-line coupling whereas alternative embodiments may utilize angled coupling without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. The apparatus and method of use is especially suited for connection and repeated disconnection of pipes within septic pump tanks, wells, cisterns, sumps, industrial pits, and other liquid storage facilities but may be used in any pipe coupling application.  
         [0014]     In its preferred form, the device is comprised of a housing portion and an insertion portion which mates with said housing portion. Each of the aforesaid have pipe coupling portions, preferably conventional ANSI tapered female pipe threads, into which the pipes to couple may be secured and sealed. Alternative embodiments may utilize male or female fittings as pipe coupling portions which are threaded or secured by other means such as adhesives, solders, or welds.  
         [0015]     The housing portion has a uniquely double tapered channel circumferentially around an insertion opening into which said insertion portion fits. The width and breadth of said channel decreases substantially proportion to the distance from said insertion opening as it approaches a vertex intersection of said channel maximally away from said insertion opening. That is, the circumferential channel decreases to a minimal width at said vertex.  
         [0016]     The insertion portion has a flange constructed to mate with said channel. That is, the flange width, breadth, and length is substantially equivalent to the width, breadth, and length of the housing portion channel. In a preferred embodiment, the insertion portion has a first face with a groove having an O-ring or elastomeric gasket, all of which mates with a second face on said housing portion. The unique channel width taper assures a force placement between said faces and onto said O-ring which is substantially perpendicular to said channel and which provides compression of said O-ring and assured sealing between the insertion and housing portion.  
         [0017]     Although the tapered fit between the insertion and housing portions provides a secure holding action, unique to the delineated applications, retention of the respective portions is assured since the insertion opening is typically at a higher elevation than the channel vertex. That is in a preferred embodiment, since within a well, cistern, or sump application the supply pipe having a submerged pump is vertically connected with said pipe coupling portion on said insertion portion, gravitational force promotes continuous seating of the two portions. An alternative embodiment of the present art has a latch mechanism or assembly which assures a secure mating of the two portions in an inverted position.  
         [0018]     In the preferred embodiment, the insertion portion has an integral strap member forming a substantial orifice into which a simple substantially L-shaped removal tool may be placed for separation of the two portions. Unique to the present invention, an opening within said orifice allows protrusion of a bridge on said housing portion into said orifice whereby a slight prying force of said removal tool will separate or “pop” the two portions apart. Once initially separated, the tapered fit is no longer placing said force to create O-ring compression and the two portions easily separate. This allows the plumbing technician or user to easily separate or “pop” the two portions apart and then simply lift the pump and supply pipe or other components without any additional force other than that caused by the weight of the supply pipe and pump. Prior art devices without this uniquely tapered mating configuration require the user to lift against the frictional interface for the full length of the slip coupling.  
         [0019]     An alternative embodiment of said removal or decoupling tool is formed of a tubular steel with a substantially L-shape having a lever end and a decoupling end. Said decoupling end inserts into the pipe coupler orifice which allows the operator to apply force against the pipe coupler bridge of said pipe coupler, thereby decoupling said pipe coupler. Said decoupling end further comprises a strap member retainer and a ball. Said ball is of a weight and size which allows rolling of said ball within said tubular decoupling end. Said decoupling end further comprises a window on said inner surface to allow said strap member retainer to extend beyond an inner surface of said decoupling end. Said decoupling end further comprises pivot points whereby said strap member retainer is pivotally mounted. Said lever end is of sufficient length to allow an operator to apply adequate force for decoupling said pipe connecter and for extraction of said pipe components. Said lever end further comprises eyes or holes capable of accepting one or more handles. Said handles aid in applying addition force, or assist the operator in extracting said supply pipe after decoupling.  
         [0020]     Operation of said decoupling tool is by means of canting said decoupling tool against a pipe coupler bridge, thereby applying force until decoupling take place. Gravitational force will cause said ball to roll against said strap member retainer, forcing said strap member retainer to an extended position. Once said strap member retainer is extended, the pipe coupler strap member is prevents the decoupling tool from slipping off said coupler. When said strap member retainer is retracted via an opposition cant said decoupling tool may be withdrawn, thereby securely extracting said supply pipe.  
         [0021]     Although preferably molded from a one piece polymer material such as the NORYL® material from General Electric Plastics and fiberglass filled, the coupler apparatus may be manufactured from a variety of materials, including but not limited to woods, metals, composites, or ceramics without departing from the scope and spirit herein intended. Said manufacturing includes but is not limited to molding, machining, casting, forging, pressing, laminating, carving, or utilization of stereo-lithographic or electro-dynamic milling techniques. Said removal or decoupling tool may be manufactured from a plurality of materials including but not limited to solid and tubular metallic materials, plastics, resins, fiber filled materials, or woods. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0022]     Numerous other objects, features and advantages of the invention should now become apparent upon a reading of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:  
         [0023]      FIG. 1  is a front plan view of a the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form.  
         [0024]      FIG. 2  is a rear plan view of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form.  
         [0025]      FIG. 3  is a top plan view of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form.  
         [0026]      FIG. 4  is a bottom plan view of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form.  
         [0027]      FIG. 5  is a left plan view of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form with a right plan view being substantially symmetrical.  
         [0028]      FIG. 6  is a front plan view of the insertion portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0029]      FIG. 7  is a rear plan view of the insertion portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0030]      FIG. 8  is a top plan view of the insertion portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0031]      FIG. 9  is a bottom plan view of the insertion portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0032]      FIG. 10  is a left plan view of the insertion portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler with a right plan view being substantially symmetrical.  
         [0033]      FIG. 11  is a front plan view of the housing portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0034]      FIG. 12  is a rear plan view of the housing portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0035]      FIG. 13  is a top plan view of the housing portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0036]      FIG. 14  is a bottom plan view of the housing portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0037]      FIG. 15  is a left plan view of the housing portion of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler a right plan view being substantially symmetrical.  
         [0038]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the removal tool for the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0039]      FIG. 17  is a left plan view of the removal tool engaged with an assembled slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0040]      FIG. 18  is a left plan view of the removal tool engaged and slightly canted showing the separation method between the insertion and housing portion.  
         [0041]      FIG. 19  is a cross sectional view of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler installed within a septic system.  
         [0042]      FIG. 20  is a front plan view of an alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form showing the latch assembly.  
         [0043]      FIG. 21  is a rear plan view of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form showing the latch assembly.  
         [0044]      FIG. 22  is a top plan view of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form showing the latch assembly.  
         [0045]      FIG. 23  is a cross sectional view taken along line  23 - 23  of  FIG. 20 .  
         [0046]      FIG. 24  is a left plan view of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form with said latch assembly.  
         [0047]      FIG. 25  is a cross sectional view taken along line  25 - 25  of  FIG. 24 .  
         [0048]      FIG. 26  is a top plan view of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler in an assembled form with said latch assembly.  
         [0049]      FIG. 27  is a front plan view of the insertion portion of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler with said latch assembly.  
         [0050]      FIG. 28  is a cross sectional view taken along line  28 - 28  of  FIG. 27 .  
         [0051]      FIG. 29  is a front plan view of the housing portion of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler with said latch assembly.  
         [0052]      FIG. 30  is a rear plan view of the housing portion of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler with said latch assembly.  
         [0053]      FIG. 31  is a top plan view of the housing portion of said alternative embodiment of the slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler with said latch assembly.  
         [0054]      FIG. 32  is a cross sectional view taken along line  32 - 32  of  FIG. 30 .  
         [0055]      FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment removal or decoupling tool.  
         [0056]      FIG. 34  left plan view of said alternative embodiment removal tool engaged with an assembled slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler.  
         [0057]      FIG. 35  is a left plan view of said alternative embodiment removal tool engaged and slightly canted showing the separation method between the insertion and housing portion.  
         [0058]      FIG. 36  is a top plan view of said alternative embodiment removal tool.  
         [0059]      FIG. 37  is a bottom plan view of said alternative embodiment removal tool.  
         [0060]      FIG. 38  is a front plan view of said alternative embodiment removal tool showing the strap member retainer rectracted.  
         [0061]      FIG. 39  is a cross sectional view taken along line  39 - 39  of  FIG. 38 .  
         [0062]      FIG. 40  is a front plan view of said alternative embodiment removal tool showing the strap member retainer extended.  
         [0063]      FIG. 41  is a cross sectional view taken along line  41 - 41  of  FIG. 40 . 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0064]     Referring now to the drawings, there is shown in  FIGS. 1-41  a preferred embodiment of a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler  10  and the removal tool  84 . The device  10  is particularly adapted for quick coupling and repeated disconnection of any types of pipes, especially within septic pump tanks, wells, cisterns, sumps, industrial pits, and other liquid storage facilities including swimming pool equipment. Said pipes may be of any material including but not limited to metallic and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).  
         [0065]     The present invention  10  comprises a first insertion portion  12  which slidably fits within a housing portion  52  in order to couple two pipes having pressurized contents in a sealed manner. Unlike prior art devices, the present art  10  easily couples and separates yet provides an assured seal between two or more pressurized pipes in a form which may be economically manufactured.  
         [0066]     The housing portion  52  comprises a front side  56 , a rear side  72 , a right side  66 , and a left side  64 , a top side  76  and a bottom side  68 , said front side  56  having a second pipe coupling portion to secure and seal a pipe. (said second pipe coupling portion  58  is referenced relative to a first pipe coupling portion on  16  on said insertion portion  12 ) Preferably said second pipe coupling portion  58  is a female threaded  60  conventional tapered pipe thread but in alternative embodiments said coupling portion  58  may comprise male pipe threads or secure said pipe by other means such as adhesives, solders, or welds in a male or female relation. Alternative embodiments may also utilize non-tapered threads.  
         [0067]     Unique to the present coupler  10  is a topside indent  62  visible on said front side  56  and said top side  76  which interlocks with an overhanging lip  40  on said insertion portion  12  when assembled. Integral to this indent  62  is a bridge  80  which completes the interlocking mechanical structure and is visible from the front side  56 , top side  76 , and rear side  72 . Said bridge  80  may be formed and function without said indent  62  in alternative embodiments. This interlocking provides a coupling strength not heretofore found on prior art slip fit couplings. That is, without this interlocking feature, the prior art slip fit pipe couplers, by necessity, must be manufactured from cast bronze or other non-corrosive metallic materials in order to provide the sealing strength necessary to work with pressurized pipes. The present art overhanging lip  40  engaged with said indent  62  allows the coupler  10  to be manufactured inexpensively from a plurality of polymer materials while assuring a pressurized seal.  
         [0068]     Said top side  76  has an insertion opening  77  into which a flange  26  of said insertion portion  12  is inserted. Visible from said top side  76  and attached with the rear side  72  is a double tapered channel  78  of substantially equivalent width and breadth as said flange  26 . That is, said channel  78  tapers in width (i.e. flange  26  thickness) and breadth (i.e. separation of said channel  78  location from proximately near the left side  64  and right side  66 ). In a preferred embodiment, said channel  78  is substantially continuous from the top side  76  back to said top side  76 , i.e. proximately near said left side  64  to proximately said right side  66 , again substantially conforming to said flange  26 . Integral to said channel  78  and visible from the top side  76  is a lip  82  on the rearmost side of said channel which completes the geometrical form of the channel  78 . Those skilled in the art understand the advantages of a tapered fit between two mechanical components. That is, a tapered fit will assure a binding connection between two bodies yet allow for easy separation once the taper connection is “popped” or broken. Alternative embodiments may utilize a non-tapered or tapered channel  78  which is continuous or disjoint. Further alternative embodiments may utilize a tapered channel  78  with a stepped taper. That is, different portions of the channel  78  may taper at different rates or have only a portion tapered. Still further alternative embodiments may utilize a single tapered channel  78  in either width or breadth.  
         [0069]     The rear side  72  of said housing portion  52  has a second face  74  which mates with a first face  34  on said insertion portion  12  when assembled. That is, said second face  74  is of a form to provide a mating with said first face  34  with said gasket  38  there between providing an assured seal. In a preferred embodiment, sealing between said faces  34 ,  74  is achieved via the tapered channel  78  and flange  26  mating compression of an O-ring or elastomeric gasket  38  mounted within a groove  36  in said first face  34  of said insertion portion  12 . In a preferred embodiment, substantially at a channel vertex  63 , that is a convergence of the channel  78  at a location substantially opposite said top side  76 , is a drainage hole  70  which will show liquid seepage should the seal between said faces  34 ,  74  fail. Said drainage hole  70  further assures that should the seal fail, hydrostatic pressure will not cause a separation of the slip fit between the two portions  12 ,  52 .  
         [0070]     As aforesaid, the insertion portion  12  is designed to mate and create a seal with said housing portion  52 . Said insertion portion  12  comprises a front side  32 , a rear side  14 , a right side  22 , a left side  20 , a top side  44  and a bottom side  24 , said rear side  14  having a first pipe coupling portion  16  to secure and seal a pipe. In a preferred embodiment, as in the housing portion  52 , said first pipe coupling portion  16  is a female threaded  18  conventional tapered pipe thread but in alternative embodiments said coupling portion  16  may comprise male pipe threads or secure said pipe by other means such as adhesives, solders, or welds in a male or female relation.  
         [0071]     Visible from all sides,  14 ,  22 ,  20 ,  24 ,  32 , except the top side  44 , is said flange  26 . In a preferred embodiment, said flange  26  has an integral shoulder  30  germane to the mechanical flange  26  structure and a width  28  which decreasingly tapers from proximately near said top side  44  to near said bottom side  24 . As viewed from said front side  32 , said flange  26  has a tapered breadth  39  toward said bottom side  24  and is continuous from said top side  44  and said left side  20  convergence to said top side  44  and right side  22  convergence and around said bottom side  24 . Within the preferred embodiment, said flange  26  and channel  78  each have a substantially equivalently dimensioned radius proximate said bottom side  24 ,  68  which mate in an interlocking fashion. Alternative embodiments may utilize various forms of said flange  26  and channel  78  proximate said bottom side  24 ,  68 , including but not limited to linear, triangular, stepped, and elliptical forms. Alternative embodiments of said flange  26  may utilize one or more of a subset of the plurality of alternative geometrical forms as described for said channel provided that the flange  26  and channel  78  may mate and create a sealing interface between the faces  34 ,  74 .  
         [0072]     The aforesaid overhanging lip  40  of said insertion portion  12  contains a recess  42  into which said bridge  80  of said housing portion  52  fits and mates. That is, said lip  40  mates or presses with said bridge  80  to provide an assured hold. Again, said overhanging lip  40  assures a strength of connection between the two portions  12 ,  52 . Without said overhanging lip  40 , hydrostatic pressure within the pipes would substantially require manufacturing the coupler  10  from traditional cast bronze or other metallic materials in order to assure the sealing strength. Again, as aforesaid, said lip  40  allows manufacture from polymer materials such as the NORYL® material.  
         [0073]     Unique to the present art coupler  10  is the top side  44  depression  46 , opening  48 , and strap member  50 , in combination forming an orifice  51  between said strap member  50  and said depression  46 . Although described as an orifice  51 , said orifice  51  may take may shapes and forms including but not limited to a partial or fully round or rectangular opening or combinations thereof. As described within the prior art, separation of a slip fit coupler when utilized within a sump, septic, well, or tank application often requires contorted efforts or the use of specialized tools. The aforesaid combination  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  51  allows for convenient and quick separation, along with supply pipe and pump removal, via a simple removal or decoupling tool  84  having a shaft  86  and an L-shaped extension  88  which inserts into said orifice  51 . A narrow diameter portion  90  between or on said L-shaped extension  88  and said shaft  86  assures a secure hooking or mating with said strap member  50  during removal of said insertion portion  12 , supply pipe, and pump. That is, the insertion portion  12  with its attached portions will not fall off of the removal tool  84  during removal.  
         [0074]     In a preferred embodiment, the depression  46  in conjunction with the geometric form of said strap member  50  forms said orifice  51 . Within said depression  46 , the opening  48  communicates and is connected with or within the aforesaid recess  42 . Said opening  48  allows the bridge  80  of the housing portion  52  to partially extend into said depression  46  and/or orifice  51  for the promotion of separation of each portion  12 ,  52  with said removal tool  84 . That is, for separation and removal said L-shaped extension  88  is inserted into said orifice  51  and slightly canted. This canting initiates a substantially opposite force couple on said strap member  50  relative to said bridge  80  in order to forcible separate said portions  12 ,  52 . As viewed by one of ordinary skill and as found in the preferred embodiment, optimally said L-shaped extension  88  cross sectional height or diameter closely matches the minimal assembled distance between said bridge  80  and said strap member  50  in order to minimize the cant angle required for utilization of the removal tool  84 . Alternative embodiments may loosen the aforesaid tolerance and function with the added inconvenience of a greater cant angle required for initial separation of the tapered portions  26 ,  78 . Alternative embodiments may utilize a plurality of orifice  51  cross sectional geometric forms provided said bridge  80  or equivalent extends through said opening  48  or equivalent whereby said removal tool  84  may initiate separation of the portions  12 ,  52 . In the preferred embodiment, said L-shaped extension  88  substantially conforms in cross section with said interfaced orifice  51 /bridge  80  form. Alternative embodiments, as with the aforesaid desired tolerance specifications, may deviate from the preferred embodiment provided that the opposite force couple between the two portions  12 ,  52  is maintained for separation and removal.  
         [0075]     An alternative embodiment of said removal tool  84  or slip fitting quick disconnect pipe decoupling tool  84  (hereafter referred to as decoupling tool for the alternative embodiment) is preferably formed of tubular steel and also in a substantially L-shape. Said decoupling tool  84  comprises an inner surface  106 , an outer surface  108  preferably of flattened form, and first  102  and second  104  surfaces. Said decoupling tool  84  further comprises a lever end  110  and a decoupling end  120 . Said decoupling end  120  inserts into the pipe coupler orifice  51  which allows the operator to apply force against the pipe coupler bridge  80  of said pipe coupler  10 , thereby decoupling said pipe coupler  10 . Said decoupling end  120  further comprises a strap member retainer  124  and a ball  128 . Said ball  128  is of substantial weight and size to allow rolling of said ball  128  within said tubular decoupling end  120 . Said decoupling end  120  further comprises a window  122  on said inner surface  106  to allow at least a portion of said strap member retainer  124  smaller than said window  122  to extend beyond said inner surface  106  of said decoupling end  120  or through said window  122 . Said decoupling end  120  also comprises pivot points  126  whereby said strap member retainer  124  is pivotally mounted and a ball guard  131  of a thin sheet material within said tubular structure which substantially prohibits said ball  128  from protruding from said substantially flattened outer surface  108 .  
         [0076]     Said lever end  110  is of sufficient length to allow an operator to apply adequate force for decoupling said pipe coupler  10  and for extraction of said pipe components. Said lever end  110  further comprises eyes or holes  112  capable of accepting one or more handles  114 . Said handles  114  aid in applying addition force, or assist the operator in extracting said supply pipe after decoupling.  
         [0077]     Operation of said decoupling tool  84  is by means of canting said decoupling tool  84  against a pipe coupler bridge  80 , thereby applying force until decoupling takes place. Gravitational force will cause said ball  128  to roll against said strap member retainer  124 , forcing said strap member retainer  124  to an extended position. Once said strap member retainer  124  is extended, the pipe coupler strap member  50  is prevented from slipping off said decoupling tool  84 , whereby said decoupling tool  84  may be withdrawn, thereby securely extracting said supply pipe.  
         [0078]     The removal or decoupling tool  84  may be manufactured from but not limited to tubular or round stock materials and associated fittings. Although preferably manufactured from tubular steel said decoupling tool  84  may be manufactured from a variety of materials, including but not limited to woods, metals, composites, metals and alloys thereof, or ceramics without departing from the scope and spirit herein intended.  
         [0079]     Said decoupling tool  84  is substantially L-shaped and comprised of a rigid material, preferable tubular steel. Said decoupling tool  84  further comprises said inner surface  106  corresponding to that surface within the ninety degree angle or top portion of the substantially L-shaped tool, and said outer surface  108  corresponding to that surface within the 270 degree angle or bottom of said substantially L shaped tool. Said decoupling tool further comprises a first  102  and second  104  surface corresponding to the left and right sides respectively or the surface not contained within the angles of said L-shaped tool  84  and substantially perpendicular to said inner  106  and outer surfaces  108 . Said decoupling tool  84  further comprises said lever end  110  corresponding to the vertical segment of the L shape, of sufficient length to allow the operator to apply adequate force against said pipe coupler bridge  80  to cause decoupling, and of sufficient length to allow the operator to extract the decoupled pipe component without physically entering the tank. In the preferred embodiment, said lever end  110  further comprises one or more eyes or holes  112  along its length, passing through said first  102  and second  104  surfaces for the purpose of accepting one or more said handles  114 . In the preferred embodiment, said handles  114  are comprised of a simple rigid rod, preferably steel, of sufficient length to allow gripping. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that handles of a number of different shapes and attachment methods may be utilized.  
         [0080]     Said decoupling tool further comprises a decoupling end  120  corresponding to the substantially horizontal segment of said L-shaped tool  84  of sufficient length to be inserted into said pipe coupler orifice  51 . As shown in detail in the Figures, said decoupling end  120  further comprises said window  122  on said inner surface  106  of sufficient size to allow said strap member retainer  124  to extend beyond said inner surface  106 , but small enough to retain said ball  128 . Said decoupling end  120  also comprises said pivot points  126  distal to said window  122 , preferably comprised of holes through said first  102  and second  104  surfaces, of sufficient diameter to accept said strap member retainer  124  pivot elements  125 . Said strap member retainer  124  is preferably comprised of a rigid spring steel material but may comprise a plurality of other materials or forms. As shown in the Figures, said strap member retainer  124  is substantially “V” or “U” shaped, containing pivot elements  125  at the ends.  
         [0081]     Contained within said decoupling end  120  is said ball  128  of substantial weight such that when said decoupling tool  84  is canted during use, said ball  128  will roll against said strap member retainer  124  pushing said strap member retainer  124  to an extended position. Said strap member retainer  124 , once extended, will prevent said pipe coupler insertion portion  12  or strap member  50  from slipping off said decoupling tool  84  and further allows an operator to securely extract said supply pipe. Said ball guard  131  mounts via a fastener with or within said tubular structure and covers any opening in said tubular structure of said decoupling end  120  flattened outer surface  108  whereby said ball  128  is prohibited from protruding and interfering with the decoupling process.  
         [0082]     In the preferred embedment, said decoupling tool  84  may be manufactured from tubular steel of sufficient length and formed substantially into the shape of an “L”. Before or after forming, said eyes  112  and said pivot points  126  may be may be formed or drilled in first  102  and second  104  surfaces of said lever end  110 , and said decoupling end  120  respectively. Before or after forming, said window  122  may be formed or cut in said inner surface  106  of said decoupling end  120 . Said ball  128  may be inserted into said distal end  130  subsequent to cutting said window  122 . Subsequent to inserting said ball  128 , said strap member retainer  124  may be compressed and inserted into said decoupling end  120  and allowed to expand into said pivot points  126 . Said strap member retainer  124  is orientated such that, when pivoted through said window  122  it protrudes away from yet pointing towards said lever end. Said handles  114  may be cut from steel bar stock, and inserted into said eyes  112  as desired during operation. Further alternative embodiments may utilize any manner of mechanisms to activate said strap member retainer  124  including but not limited to springs, levers, counter weighs, push rods or cables.  
         [0083]     Further alternative embodiments of said coupler  10  incorporate a latching mechanism which ensures a positive locking of the insertion portion  12  with the housing portion  52  and minimizes the possibility of decoupling. Said latching mechanism is especially useful when the coupler  10  is utilized in an inverted position and/or in applications such as conventional plumbing systems and swimming pools. Said latching mechanism comprises a latch assembly  132  which mates or substantially fits with a latch cavity  156  within said housing portion  52  and engages with an engagement indent  162  in said insertion portion  12  whereby positive locking is obtained. Said latch assembly  132  comprises a latch button  134  which extends from said latch cavity  156  within said bridge  80  and also extends from said opening  48  and into said depression  46  when assembled. When depressed with said removal or decoupling tool  84 , said button  134  unlatches said insertion portion from said housing portion  52 . Alternative embodiments may place said latch button  134  in a plurality of locations other than said bridge  80  provided said button  134  may be activated or depressed during separation.  
         [0084]     In a preferred embodiment, the latch assembly  132  incorporates a button arm  136  attached with said latch button  134  which engages with a latch pin  142  tapered slot  144  in order to move said latch pin  142  in and out of engagement with said engagement indent  162 . That is, said button arm  136  is slightly tapered and engages a tapered surface in said tapered slot  144  as said button  134  is pushed or depressed further into said latch cavity  156 , thereby moving said latch pin  142  substantially perpendicular to said button  134  movement. As moved, said latch pin  142  disengages with the engagement indent  162  and allows separation of the insertion portion  12  and the housing portion  52 . Said latch button  134  further incorporates one or more spring retainers  138  which hold one or more springs  140  which bear onto a base of said latch cavity  156 . Said springs  140  assure positive retraction of said latch button  134  when not depressed.  
         [0085]     Said latch pin  142  has an engagement end  146  which engages said engagement indent  162  through sliding movement and retention within the latch pin hole  158  in said housing  52  and a guide end  150  of reduced diameter or dimension which is slidably held with the guide end hole  160  of the housing portion  52 . Said engagement end  146  preferably has a bevel  148  nearest said top side  76  which easily allows said insertion portion  12  to slide past and engage with said latch pin  142 . In a preferred alternative embodiment, the insertion portion  12  has a clearance notch  164  for said latch pin guide end  150  which protrudes from said guide end hole  160  of said housing portion  52 . The latch pin  142  is of a length that when fully engaged with or into the engagement indent  162 , there will be no protrusion of the latch pin guide end  150  into the clearance notch  164 . Said notch further acts as a sight window for determination of whether said latch pin  142  is engaged or not engaged fully with or into the engagement indent  162 . In a further alternative embodiment, a portion of said latch pin guide end  150  is painted a bright color for easy viewing.  
         [0086]     Preferably a flexible retainer  152  and retainer washer  154  are placed upon said guide end  150  of said latch pin  142  in order to provide a force upon said latch pin  142  whereby said engagement end is maintained extended or engaged when said latch button  134  is not depressed. Said flexible retainer  152  may comprise a spring, compressible rubber or foam material, or other mechanical elements which maintain an engagement force. Further alternative embodiments may utilize a plurality of latch mechanisms or assemblies in order to assure a positive and secure mating of the insertion portion  12  and the housing portion  52 .  
         [0087]     In operation, the user connects a first pipe with the insertion portion  12  and a second pipe with the housing portion  52  of the coupler  10 . (i.e. first pipe coupling portion  16  and second pipe coupling portion  58  respectively) For many anticipated applications as described, an elbow is often connected with said first pipe which further connects with a supply pipe and thereafter a pump. That is, said insertion portion  12 , first pipe, elbow, supply pipe, and pump form a single interconnected unit. Again, for many anticipated applications as described, said second pipe is fed through a wall of a housing, often a septic or sump tank or well casing but not limited to such, in which said coupler  10  is located. Again, this forms a single interconnected unit with said housing portion  52 . Upon placement and assembly of the aforesaid, the interconnected insertion portion  12  unit is mated with said housing portion  52  to form the sealing coupler  10 . In the preferred form, said mating is gravitationally assisted and continuously maintained by the mass of said interconnected insertion portion  12  unit forcing said insertion portion  12  downward into said housing portion  52  from the top side  76  insertion opening  77  toward said channel vertex  63 . The alternative embodiment utilizing the latch mechanism or assembly  132  may be placed in positions where gravitational assistance is not required. The removal tool  84  may be utilized to place and insert said insertion portion  12  or said insertion portion  12  may be placed and inserted via a plurality of means, including but not limited to manual placement.  
         [0088]     Should the user desire to separate the coupler  10 , he or she inserts the L-shaped extension or decoupling end  120  of the removal tool  84  into said orifice  51  and slightly cants the shaft  86  thereof. The relative force between the strap member  50  and the bridge  80  “pops” or separates the double taper of the flange  26  and channel  78 . This initial separation requires only a minimal displacement before the force due to the channel  78  width taper and flange  26  width  28  taper remove the substantially orthogonal force upon the O-ring or elastomeric gasket  38 . For the alternative embodiment, the latch button  134  is depressed by said removal or decoupling tool  84  and the separation proceeds as described. Once this orthogonal force is relieved, separation force between the portions  12 ,  52  is substantially limited to the weight of the single interconnected insertion portion unit. That is, the vertical vectorial force component contributed by the dynamic frictional coefficient between said elastomeric gasket  38  and second face  74  due to said orthogonal force is substantially zero. This phenomena is unique to the present art slip fit pipe coupler  10  and obviates the nuisance and limitations of the prior art. That is, with the prior art, in addition to the weight of the pump and pipe(s), substantial additional force must be used to overcome the elastomeric gasket frictional force contribution.  
         [0089]     Once separated, the user pulls the removal tool  84  shaft  86  and single interconnected insertion portion  12  unit from the sump, tank, or casing. The aforesaid method is typically performed within less than a minute with a minimum of effort. Prior art coupler separation typically requires pipe threading or un-threading which may take many minutes, hours, or even days of labor.  
         [0090]     Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a slip fit quick disconnect pipe coupler  10 , a unique decoupling tool for decoupling said coupler, and a method of use of the aforesaid has been shown and described and that said present art is capable of easily and repeatedly coupling and decoupling two or more pipes with an assured hydrostatic seal and extracting the decoupled component. The device with its unique design and structure along with its method of use fulfills a long felt but yet unfilled need within the arts described herein. The present art and its method of use provides a desired solution to the prior art coupling, separation, and choice of material limitations.  
         [0091]     Having described the invention in detail, those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications may be made to the invention and its method of use without departing from the spirit herein identified. Therefore, it is not intended that the scope of the invention be limited to the specific embodiments illustrated and described. Rather, it is intended that the scope of this invention be determined by the appended claims and their equivalents.