Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates to pipe and tubing expansion tools and more particularly to PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) expansion tools. The present disclosure further relates to systems and methods for identifying and sealing leaks in a PEX tubing system.

PEX tubing is commonly used in plumbing applications as a substitute for copper pipe. PEX tubing can be coupled to fittings in various ways. Crimp rings or clamp rings can be compressed onto the outside of PEX tubing over a fitting to couple the PEX tubing to the fitting. Alternatively, the PEX tube can be expanded and the fitting inserted into the expanded end of the PEX tube. The PEX tube elastically recovers around the fitting to form a tight connection. Tools used to expand PEX tube for this purpose are referred to as PEX expansion tools.

Given an adequate amount of time, the PEX tube will seal around the fitting, forming an air-tight connection. At locations where the PEX tube has elastically recovered, it is common practice to use a heat gun on each connection to reduce the time required for each connection to effectively seal. A problem associated with this practice is that a user must use the heat gun on each connection, regardless of whether the connection is leaking or if the connection has already sealed. <CIT>) relates to a METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FLARING CYLINDER END PART. According to the abstract of this document there is provided a method to flare the opening end part of a cylindrical body even when the end part has roughly an oval shape, to prevent generation of bucking of the cylindrical body with reducing working force, to improve durability and to simplify a set up work in a method and device for flaring the cylindrical body end part used, e.g. for the muffler shell of an automobile. By pressing an annular protrusion of a roller arranged to the inside of a cylindrical body onto the opening end part of the cylindrical body to the outward direction orthogonal to the axis of the cylindrical body, the opening end part is bent on an annular receiving part arranged outside the cylindrical body, and the annular protrusion is rolled along the peripheral direction of the opening end part. <CIT>) relates to an apparatus for expanding tubes. According to a machine translation of the abstract of this document there is provided an apparatus including a plurality of rollers having a tapered portion with a large diameter at the front and a cylindrical expander frame that rotatably supports the plurality of rollers in a concentric circle, is slidably and rotatably inserted with respect to the expander frame, and has a taper of the rollers. A mandrel is provided with a tapered portion whose front side has a small diameter to correspond to the shape of the portion, and the mandrel is advanced with respect to the expander frame to form a mandrel. A pipe expansion device that contacts the tapered portion of the plurality of rollers with the tapered portion of the plurality of rollers to expand the diameter of the expansion formed by the circumscribed circle of the plurality of rollers, and is attached to the expander frame. It is further provided with a driving means that is connected and rotates the expander frame, and a moving means that moves the mandrel forward and backward with respect to the expander frame.

According to the invention, a working element operable to expand an end of a tube includes a main body configured to rotate about an axis, a plurality of roller supports movably coupled to the main body, the roller supports movable relative to the main body between a retracted position and an expanded position, and a plurality of rollers coupled to the roller supports such that a distance between a first roller of the plurality of rollers and a second roller of the plurality of rollers increases when the roller supports move toward the expanded position. The rollers are configured to be inserted into the end of the tube when the roller supports are in the retracted position, and the rollers are engageable with an inner circumference of the tube when the main body rotates about the axis to expand the end of the tube by centrifugal force in accordance with claim <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a working element operable to expand an end of a tube includes a drive shaft, a main body coupled for co-rotation with the drive shaft, and a plurality of arms movably coupled to the main body. The arms are configured to move from a retracted position toward an expanded position in response to rotation of the drive shaft and the main body. The working element also includes a plurality of rollers supported by the arms. The rollers are engageable with an inner circumference of the tube to expand the end of the tube when the arms move toward the expanded position.

In some embodiments, a working element operable to expand an end of a tube includes a main body, a first support and a second support movably coupled to the main body for movement between a retracted position and an expanded position, a first roller coupled to the first support and a second roller coupled to the second support. The first roller and the second roller are configured to be inserted into the end of the tube when the first and second supports are in the retracted position, and the first support and the second support are movable to the expanded position while the first roller and the second roller are inserted into the end of the tube to engage the first roller and the second roller with an inner circumference of the tube. The main body is configured to rotate when the first roller and the second roller are engaged with the inner circumference of the tube to expand the end of the tube.

In some embodiments, a method of identifying a leak around a fitting in a tubing system includes connecting a source of heated air to an inlet of the tubing system, inspecting segments of the tubing system using a thermal detector, identifying segments of the tubing system that are warmer than other segments of the tubing system, and following the warmer segments of the tubing system to identify the leak around the fitting.

In some embodiments, a method of sealing a leak around a fitting in a tubing system includes connecting a source of heated air to an inlet of the tubing system, pumping the heated air into the tubing system, increasing a temperature of an end of a tubing segment surrounding the fitting as a result of the heated air leaking around the fitting, and by increasing the temperature, causing the end of the tubing segment to contract around the fitting and seal the leak.

In some embodiments, a system for testing pressure in a tubing system includes an air input, a valve, a system pressure sensor, and an air output. The air input is coupleable to an external air compressor. The air output is coupleable to an input of an external tubing system. The valve is coupled to the air input and the system pressure sensor. The system pressure tester is also coupled to the air output. When the valve is open, air can flow from the air input through the valve, the system pressure sensor, and the air output to pressurize the tubing system. A controller is connected to the valve and the system pressure sensor. The controller has an electronic processor coupled to a memory. The memory stores a program that when executed by the electronic processor configures the controller to open the valve to receive air via the air input to pressurize the tubing system and closes the valve when the tubing system is pressurized. The controller reads system pressure values from the system pressure sensor over time and determines whether the tubing system is sealed or leaking air based on the system pressure values over time. The controller provides an indication of the determination.

In some embodiments, the electronic processor determines when the tubing system is pressurized based on time passage, a measured system pressure level, or both. In some embodiments, the indication of the determination also includes a confidence level of the determination. In some embodiments, the indication is selected from the group of confidently sealed, confidently leaking, and uncertain (e.g., sealed with low confidence or leaking with low confidence).

In some systems, one or more temperature sensor is coupled to the electronic processor, and the controller is further configured to read ambient temperature values from the one or more temperature sensors. In some embodiments, the determining of whether the tubing system is sealed or leaking air based on the system pressure values over time is also based on corrections to the system pressure values. The corrections to the system pressure values are based on the system pressure values and the ambient temperature values.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor may be a gage pressure sensor and the system also includes an atmospheric pressure sensor. The electronic processor is configured to read ambient pressure values from the atmospheric pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the determining of whether the tubing system is sealed or leaking air based on the system pressure values over time is also based on corrections to the system pressure values. The corrections to the system pressure values are based on the system pressure values, the ambient temperature values, and the ambient pressure values.

In some embodiments, a method for testing pressure in a tubing system includes opening, by a controller, a valve to receive air via an air input coupled to the valve. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory that stores a program that when executed by the electronic processor configures the controller to open the valve. The valve is also coupled to a pressure sensor. When the valve is open, air can flow from the air input through the valve, the system pressure sensor, and an air output that is coupleable to a tubing system to pressurize the tubing system. The valve is closed by the controller when the tubing system is pressurized. The controller reads system pressure values from the pressure sensor over time and determines whether the tubing system is sealed or leaking air based on the system pressure values over time. The controller provides an indication of the determination.

In some embodiments, the controller reads ambient temperature values from a temperature sensor coupled to the electronic processor. In some embodiments, the determining of whether the tubing system is sealed or leaking air based on the system pressure values over time is also based on corrections to the system pressure values. The corrections to the system pressure values are based on the system pressure values and the ambient temperature values.

In some embodiments, the controller reads ambient pressure values from an atmospheric pressure sensor that is coupled to the electronic processor. The system pressure sensor may be a gage pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the determining of whether the tubing system is sealed or leaking air based on the system pressure values over time is also based on corrections to the system pressure values. The corrections to the system pressure values are based on the system pressure values, the ambient temperature values, and the ambient pressure values.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for testing pressure in a tubing system. The method includes opening, by an electronic controller, a valve coupled to an air input, where the air input is coupled to a source of compressed air. Air is received through the air input and the open valve. The electronic controller closes the valve when a specified criteria is met. The electronic controller receives pressure level data from a pressure sensor, where the pressure sensor is coupled between the valve and an air output. Air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The electronic controller determines a pressure level value for a tubing system coupled to the air output and determines whether the tubing system coupled to the air output is sealed or leaking air based on the pressure level.

In some embodiments, air received via the air input and the open valve exits the air output to the tubing system to pressurize the tubing system.

In some embodiments, the pressure level data received from the pressure sensor includes multiple pressure level measurements over a time period and the determination of whether the tubing system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air is based on the multiple pressure level measurements over the time period.

In some embodiments, the determination of whether a tubing system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air is based on time passage, a measured pressure level, or both.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the tubing system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air via a user interface.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the tubing system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air via a communication interface to a user device.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether a tubing system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air along with a confidence level for the determination.

In some embodiments, the confidence level is selected from the group consisting of confidently sealed, confidently leaking, and uncertain.

In some embodiments, the controller is further connected to a temperature sensor and reads ambient temperature values from the temperature sensor. The controller makes corrections to the pressure level value determined for the tubing system based on one or more pressure level values and the ambient temperature values.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor is a gage pressure sensor. The controller is further configured to read ambient pressure values from an atmospheric pressure sensor and make corrections to the pressure level value determined for the tubing system based on one or more pressure level values, the ambient temperature values, and the ambient pressure values.

In some embodiments, a pressure sensor is provided that includes an air input coupleable to a source of compressed air, an air output, where the air output coupleable to an air fillable system, a valve coupled to the air input, and a pressure sensor that is coupled between the valve and the air output. Air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The pressure sensor further includes a controller connected to the pressure sensor and the valve. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory that stores instructions that when executed by the processor configure the controller. The controller is configured to open the valve, receive air input through the valve, close the valve when a specified criteria is met, receive pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor, and store the pressure sensor data in the memory.

In some embodiments, the specified criteria is based on time or a pressure level.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor also includes a display device and the controller is further configured to analyze the pressure sensor data, generate a user interface based on the pressure sensor data, and transmit the user interface to the display device.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor also includes a communication interface, where the controller is configured to transmit, via the communication interface, information based on the pressure sensor data to a remote server for analysis (e.g., to a cloud system).

In some embodiments, a method is provided for a pressure sensor. The method includes opening a valve coupled to an air input by an electronic controller where the air input is coupleable to a source of compressed air and air is received through the valve. The valve is closed, by the electronic processor, when a specified criteria is met. Pressure sensor data is received from the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is coupled between the valve and an air output, where the air output is coupleable to an air fillable system. Air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The pressure sensor data is stored in memory by an electronic controller.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to analyze the pressure sensor data, generate a user interface based on the pressure sensor data, and transmit the user interface to a display device.

In some embodiments, the electronic controller is configured to transmit the pressure sensor data to a remote server for analysis.

In some embodiments, a pressure sensor system is provided that includes an air input that is coupleable to a source of compressed air and an air output that is coupleable to an air fillable system. A valve of the pressure sensor is coupled to the air input. The system further includes a pressure sensor coupled between the valve and the air output, where air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The system further includes a communication interface and a controller connected to the pressure sensor, the valve, and the communication interface. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory that stores instructions that when executed by the processor configure the controller. The controller is configured to open the valve, receive air input through the valve, close the valve when a specified criteria is met, receive pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor, and transmit information based on the pressure sensor data via the communication interface to a remote memory.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor also includes a display device and the controller is configured to analyze the pressure sensor data, generate a user interface based on the pressure sensor data, and transmit the user interface to the display device.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to transmit the pressure sensor data to a remote server for analysis.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for a pressure sensor. The method includes opening a valve by an electronic controller where the valve is coupled to an air input and the air input is coupleable to a source of compressed air. Air is received through the valve and the valve is closed by the electronic processor when a specified criteria is met. The electronic controller receives pressure sensor data from a pressure sensor where the pressure sensor is coupled between the valve and an air output. Air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The air output is coupleable to an air fillable system. The electronic controller further transmits information based on the pressure sensor data via a communication interface to a remote memory.

In some embodiments, the electronic controller is further configured to analyzes the pressure sensor data, generate a user interface based on the pressure sensor data, and transmit the user interface to a display device.

In some embodiments, the electronic controller is further configured to transmit information based on the pressure sensor data to a remote server for analysis.

In some embodiments, a pressure tester includes an air input that is coupleable to a source of compressed air, an air output that is coupleable to an air fillable system, a valve that is coupled to the air input, a user interface, and a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is coupled between the valve and the air output and air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The pressure sensor system also includes a controller connected to the pressure sensor, the valve, and the user interface. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory storing instructions that when executed by the processor configure the controller to receive an air-fill process initiation command via the user interface, open the valve to receive air via the air input in response to the air-fill process initiation command, and receive pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor. The controller is further configured to compare a pressure level indicated by the pressure sensor data to a pressure level threshold close the valve when the pressure level reaches the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to determine the pressure level threshold based on input received via the user interface.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate that the air-fill process is complete via the user interface in response to the closure of the valve when the pressure level reaches the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor system further includes a communication interface, where the controller is further configured to transmit an indication that the air-fill process is complete via the communication interface to a user device.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to receive a command to initiate pressure level testing of the air fillable system and determine one or more pressure levels of the air fillable system in response to the command.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for a pressure tester. The method includes receiving, by an electronic controller, an air-fill process initiation command via a user interface and opening a valve to receive air via an air input in response to the air-fill process initiation command. The air input is coupleable to a source of compressed air. Pressure sensor data is received by the electronic controller from a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is coupled between the valve and an air output, where air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The air output coupleable to an air fillable system. The electronic controller further compares a pressure level indicated by the pressure sensor data to a pressure level threshold and closes the valve when the pressure level reaches the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the method further includes determining the pressure level threshold based on input received via the user interface.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to transmit an indication that the air-fill process is complete via a communication interface to a user device.

In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a command to initiate a pressure level testing of the air fillable system and determining one or more pressure levels of the air fillable system in response to the command.

In some embodiments, a pressure tester includes an air input that is coupleable to a source of compressed air, an air output that is coupleable to an air fillable system, a valve that is coupled to the air input, and a pressure sensor that is coupled between the valve and the air output. Air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output when the valve is open. The pressure tester further includes a communication interface and a controller connected to the pressure sensor, the valve, and the communication interface. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory storing instructions that when executed by the processor configure the controller. The controller is configured to open the valve, receive air through the valve, and close the valve when a specified criteria is met. The controller is further configured to wait a first specified time period and receive first pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor after the first specified time period. The controller is further configured to compare a first pressure level indicated by the first pressure sensor data to a pressure level threshold and transmit a notification via the communication interface to a remote communication device in response to the first pressure level falling below the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the first specified time period is shorter than a predicted sealing time relative to a time that an air fillable connection is sealed in the air fillable system.

In some embodiments, in response to the first pressure level remaining above the pressure level threshold, the controller is further configured to wait a second specified time period, receive second pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor after the second specified time period, compare a second pressure level indicated by the second pressure sensor data to the pressure level threshold, and transmit a notification via the communication interface to the remote communication device in response to the second pressure level falling below the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the configuration of the controller is based on one or more parameters received by the controller from a remote user device. In some embodiments, the configuration of the controller is based on one or more parameters that conform to local construction codes.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for a pressure tester. The method includes opening, by an electronic controller, a valve of the pressure tester, receiving air input through the valve, closing, by the electronic controller, the valve when a specified criteria is met. The electronic controller waits a first specified time period, receives first pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor after the first specified time period, compares a first pressure level indicated by the first pressure sensor data to a pressure level threshold, and transmits a notification via the communication interface to a remote communication device in response to the first pressure level falling below the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the first specified time period is shorter than a predicted sealing time relative to a time that a tubing connection is sealed in the tubing system.

In some embodiments, in response to the first pressure level remaining above the pressure level threshold, the electronic controller waits a second specified time period, receives second pressure sensor data from the pressure sensor after the second specified time period, compares a second pressure level indicated by the second pressure sensor data to the pressure level threshold, and transmits a notification via the communication interface to the remote communication device in response to the second pressure level falling below the pressure level threshold.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured for operation based on one or more parameters received from a remote user device. In some embodiments, the controller is configured for operation based on one or more parameters that conform to local construction codes.

In some embodiments, a system for testing pressure in an air fillable system includes an air input, where the air input is coupleable to a source of compressed air, an air output, where the air output coupleable to an air fillable system, a pressure sensor is coupled between the air output and the air output, where air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output, and a controller. The controller is connected to the pressure sensor and the controller includes an electronic processor and a memory. The memory stores instructions that when executed by the processor configure the controller to receive air through the air input, receive pressure level data from the pressure sensor, determine a pressure level value, and determine whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air based on the pressure level value.

In some embodiments, air received via the air input exits the air output to the air fillable system to pressurize the air fillable system. In some embodiments, the pressure level data from the pressure sensor includes multiple pressure level measurements over a time period and the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air is based on the multiple pressure level measurements taken over the time period.

In some embodiments, the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air is based on time passage, a measured pressure level, or both. In some embodiments, the system further includes a user interface, where the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air via the user interface.

In some embodiments, the system further includes a communication interface, where the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air via the communication interface to a user device.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air along with a confidence level for the determination. In some embodiments, the confidence level is selected from the group consisting of confidently sealed, confidently leaking, and uncertain. In some embodiments, the controller is further connected to a temperature sensor and is further configured to read ambient temperature values from the temperature sensor, and make corrections to the pressure level value determined for the air fillable system based on one or more pressure level values and the ambient temperature values.

In some embodiments, the pressures sensor is a gage pressure sensor and the system further includes an atmospheric pressure sensor, wherein the controller is further configured to read ambient pressure values from the atmospheric pressure sensor, and make corrections to the pressure level value determined for the air fillable system based on one or more pressure level values, the ambient temperature values, and the ambient pressure values.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for testing pressure in an air fillable system. The method includes receiving air through an air input of a pressure testing system, where the air input coupled to a source of compressed air. The electronic controller receives pressure level data from a pressure sensor, where the pressure sensor is coupled between the air input and an air output of the pressure testing system, and where air can flow from the air input to the pressure sensor and through the air output. The electronic controller determines a pressure level value for an air fillable system coupled to the air output, and determines whether the air fillable system coupled to the air output is sealed or leaking air based on the pressure level.

In some embodiments, air received via the air input exits the air output to the air fillable system to pressurize the air fillable system. In some embodiments, the pressure level data received from the pressure sensor includes multiple pressure level measurements over a time period and the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air is based on the multiple pressure level measurements over the time period.

In some embodiments, the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air is based on time passage, a measured pressure level, or both. In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air via a user interface.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air via a communication interface to a user device. In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate results of the determination of whether the air fillable system attached to the air output is sealed or leaking air along with a confidence level for the determination. In some embodiments, the confidence level is selected from the group consisting of confidently sealed, confidently leaking, and uncertain.

In some embodiments, the controller is connected to a temperature sensor and is further configured to read ambient temperature values from the temperature sensor, and make corrections to the pressure level value determined for the air fillable system based on one or more pressure level values and the ambient temperature values.

In some embodiments, the pressure sensor is a gage pressure sensor and the system further includes an atmospheric pressure sensor, where the controller is further configured to read ambient pressure values from the atmospheric pressure sensor, and make corrections to the pressure level value determined for the air fillable system based on one or more pressure level values, the ambient temperature values, and the ambient pressure values.

In some embodiments, a system for filling an air fillable device includes an air input, where the air input is coupleable to a source of compressed air, an air output, where the air output is coupleable to an air fillable system, a valve, where the valve is coupled to the air input and where air can flow from the air input through the air output when the valve is open, a user interface, and a controller. The controller is connected to the valve and the user interface. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory. The memory stores instructions that when executed by the processor configure the controller to receive an air-fill process initiation command via the user interface, open the valve to receive air via the air input in response to the air-fill process initiation command, and close the valve when filling of the air fillable system with air is complete.

In some embodiments, the controller determines whether the filling of the air fillable system with air is complete based on an amount of fill time. In some embodiments, the controller determines whether the filling of the air fillable system with air is complete based on output of a flow meter. In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate that the air-fill process is complete via the user interface in response to the closure of the valve. In some embodiments, the pressure tester includes a communication interface, where the controller is configured to transmit an indication that the air-fill process is complete via the communication interface to a user device.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for filling an air fillable system. The method includes receiving, by an electronic controller, an air-fill process initiation command via a user interface, and opening, by the electronic controller, a valve to receive air via an air input in response to the air-fill process initiation command. The air input is coupleable to a source of compressed air and air can flow from the air input through an air output when the valve is open and the air output is coupleable to an air fillable system. The electronic processor closes the valve when the filling of the air fillable system with air is complete.

In some embodiments, the controller determines whether the filling of the air fillable system with air is complete based on an amount of fill time. In some embodiments, the controller determines whether the filling of the air fillable system with air is complete based on output of a flow meter. In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to indicate that the air-fill process is complete via the user interface in response to the closure of the valve when the pressure level reaches the pressure level threshold. In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to transmit an indication that the air-fill process is complete via a communication interface to a user device.

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention as defined by the appended claims is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways within the scope of the claims.

It should also be noted that a plurality of hardware and software based devices, as well as a plurality of different structural components, may be used to implement embodiments disclosed herein. In addition, it should be understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules that, for purposes of discussion, may be illustrated and described as if the majority of the components were implemented solely in hardware. However, one of ordinary skill in the art, and based on a reading of this detailed description, would recognize that, in at least one embodiment, the electronic based aspects of the embodiments disclosed may be implemented in software (e.g., stored on non-transitory computer-readable medium) executable by one or more processors. As such, it should be noted that a plurality of hardware and software based devices, as well as a plurality of different structural components may be utilized to implement the embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, and as described in subsequent paragraphs, the specific mechanical configurations illustrated in the drawings are intended to be examples of embodiments and that other alternative mechanical configurations are possible. For example, "controllers" described in the specification can include processing components, such as one or more processors, one or more computer-readable medium modules, one or more input/output interfaces, and various connections (e.g., a system bus) connecting the components. In some instances, the controllers described in the specification may be implemented in one of or a combination of a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like.

<FIG> illustrate a working element <NUM> of an expansion tool usable to expand PEX tubing prior to inserting a fitting. Referring to <FIG>, the working element <NUM> includes a drive member in the form of a drive shaft <NUM>, a central shaft <NUM>, a back plate <NUM>, and a roller assembly <NUM>. The drive shaft <NUM> is rotatably supported by a bearing <NUM> within the back plate <NUM>, such that the drive shaft <NUM> is rotatable relative to the back plate <NUM> about a longitudinal axis L of the drive shaft <NUM>. The roller assembly <NUM> and the central shaft <NUM> are coupled for co-rotation with the drive shaft <NUM> about the longitudinal axis L. The drive shaft <NUM> is configured to be rotated by a drive mechanism (not shown) of the expansion tool. In some embodiments, the working element <NUM> may be configured for attachment to other types of rotary power tools, such as drills.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the roller assembly <NUM> includes a first arm <NUM>, a second arm <NUM>, and an attachment portion or main body <NUM>. The attachment portion <NUM> is coupled for co-rotation with the drive shaft <NUM>, and in some embodiments, the drive shaft <NUM> and the attachment portion <NUM> may be integrally formed together as a single piece. The central shaft <NUM> extends from the attachment portion <NUM> opposite the drive shaft <NUM> and may be coupled to the attachment portion <NUM> by a key and keyway arrangement, a spline interface, or any other suitable rotation-transmitting coupling. Alternatively, the central shaft <NUM> and the attachment portion <NUM> may be integrally formed together as a single piece.

The first arm <NUM> and the second arm <NUM>, which may also be referred to as first and second roller supports, each have a first or proximal end pivotally coupled to the attachment portion <NUM> on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis L. A second or distal end of each of the arms <NUM>, <NUM> supports a roller shaft <NUM>. Each roller shaft <NUM> extends through the respective arm <NUM>, <NUM> in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Each of the roller shafts <NUM> rotatably supports a plurality of generally cylindrical rollers <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the roller shafts <NUM> supports three rollers <NUM>, and the rollers <NUM> are axially separated by flanges <NUM> formed at the distal ends of the arms <NUM>, <NUM>. In other embodiments, the roller shafts <NUM> may support any number of rollers <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the working element <NUM> further includes a guide roller <NUM> rotatably coupled to the central shaft <NUM> adjacent an end of the central shaft <NUM> opposite the attachment portion <NUM>.

The illustrated roller assembly <NUM> further includes brackets <NUM> coupled to opposite axial ends of the attachment portion <NUM>. The brackets <NUM> support pivot shafts <NUM> that pivotally couple the respective arms <NUM>, <NUM> to the attachment portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the brackets <NUM> may include stops engageable with an associated one of the arms <NUM>, <NUM> at the retracted position and/or the expanded position to limit movement of the arms <NUM>, <NUM>.

The arms <NUM>, <NUM> are pivotable relative to the attachment portion <NUM> between a first or retracted position (<FIG>) and a second or expanded position (<FIG>) in response to rotation of the drive shaft <NUM> about the longitudinal axis L. Specifically, as the drive shaft <NUM> rotates, the distal ends of the arms <NUM>, <NUM> tend to pivot toward the expanded position due to inertia. Although the illustrated roller assembly <NUM> includes two arms <NUM>, <NUM>, in other embodiments, the roller assembly <NUM> may include three or more arms, each supporting rollers <NUM>.

In operation, the working element <NUM> is inserted into a PEX tube <NUM> with the arms <NUM>, <NUM> in the retracted position (<FIG>), until the back plate <NUM> abuts the end of the PEX tube <NUM> (<FIG>). The drive shaft <NUM> is then rotationally driven by the drive mechanism of the expansion tool at a high speed. For example, in some embodiments, the drive shaft <NUM> may be driven at speeds between about <NUM>,<NUM> RPM and about <NUM>,<NUM> RPM. In some embodiments, the drive shaft <NUM> may be driven at speeds between about <NUM>,<NUM> RPM and about <NUM>,<NUM> RPM. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft <NUM> is driven at about <NUM>,<NUM> RPM.

As the drive shaft <NUM> rotates at high speed, the rollers <NUM> travel along the inner circumference of the PEX tube <NUM>. Due to inertia, the rollers <NUM> exert an apparent centrifugal force on the inside of the PEX tube <NUM> that is equal to the centripetal force on the rollers <NUM>. This force causes the PEX tube <NUM> to resiliently expand as the arms <NUM>, <NUM> move toward the expanded position (<FIG>). The guide roller <NUM> (<FIG>), which is inserted deeper into the PEX tube <NUM>, supports the central shaft <NUM> and stabilizes the working element <NUM>. Once the arms <NUM>, <NUM> reach the expanded position and expansion is complete, the user may remove the working element <NUM> from the expanded PEX tube <NUM>. The user then inserts a fitting into the expanded PEX tube <NUM>, and the tube <NUM> recovers to form a seal around the fitting.

<FIG>, illustrate a working element <NUM> of an expansion tool according to another embodiment. The illustrated working element <NUM> is configured to be coupled to an expansion tool and rotated about a longitudinal axis <NUM> via a drive mechanism of the expansion tool to expand PEX tubing.

Referring to <FIG>, the working element <NUM> includes a housing or main body <NUM> and first and second roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> slidably coupled to the housing <NUM>. The illustrated housing <NUM> has a front surface <NUM>, a rear surface <NUM>, and a circumferential surface <NUM> extending between the front and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. The longitudinal axis <NUM> passes through a center of each of the front surface <NUM> and the rear surface <NUM>.

The first and second roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> are moveable in relation to the housing <NUM> between a retracted position (<FIG>) and an expanded position (<FIG>). In particular, the first roller support <NUM> is movable from the retracted position to the expanded position in a first direction A1, and the second roller support <NUM> is movable from the retracted position to the expanded position in a second direction A2 that is opposite the first direction A1. The first and second directions A1, A2 are substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis <NUM>.

A first cylindrical roller <NUM> extends forward from the first roller support <NUM>, and a second cylindrical roller <NUM> extends forward from the second roller support <NUM> parallel with the first roller <NUM>. The first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM> are each parallel with the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM> are moveable together with the first and second roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> as the first and second roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> move in the first and second directions A1, A2. Although the illustrated working element <NUM> includes two roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> and two rollers <NUM>, <NUM>, the working element <NUM> may include three or more roller supports and accompanying rollers in other embodiments. In such embodiments, each of the roller supports and rollers may be movable relative to the housing <NUM> in a radial direction.

In the illustrated embodiment, the housing <NUM> and the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> collectively define an annular groove <NUM> that extends around the circumference of the housing <NUM>. A resilient ring <NUM>, such as a rubber O-ring, is disposed in the groove <NUM>. The ring <NUM> acts as a biasing member to bias the first and second roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> toward the retracted position illustrated in <FIG>. Movement of the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> toward the expanded position resiliently stretches the ring <NUM>. In other embodiments, the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> may be biased toward the retracted position by one or more tension springs coupled to and spanning between the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> may be biased toward the retracted position by any other suitable biasing means.

With reference to <FIG>, in the illustrated embodiment, an inner side of each of the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> includes an angled cam surface <NUM>. The cam surfaces <NUM> form a substantially triangular-shaped recess when the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> are in the retracted position, which receives an expanding member or mandrel <NUM>. A distal end <NUM> of the expanding member <NUM> includes corresponding angled surfaces that are engageable with the cam surfaces <NUM> of the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM>. As such, movement of the expanding member <NUM> in the direction of arrow A3 moves the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> outward toward the expanded position. In other embodiments, the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> may be moved outward in other ways. For example, in some embodiments, the expanding member <NUM> may include a circumferential cam surface configured to expand the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> in response to rotation of the expanding member <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, an opening <NUM> is formed in the rear surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> such that the expanding member <NUM> is accessible through the housing <NUM>. A drive member (not shown) of the expansion tool is operable to engage with the expanding member <NUM> through the opening <NUM> in order to press the expanding member <NUM> forward against the cam surfaces <NUM>. The force exerted onto the cam surfaces <NUM> by the expanding member <NUM> overcomes a spring force exerted onto the first and second sections <NUM>, <NUM> by the resilient ring <NUM>. This causes the first and second sections <NUM>, <NUM>, as well as the first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM>, to move in the first and second directions A1, A2, respectively. In some embodiments, the housing <NUM> may be axially fixed to the expansion tool to resist the axial reaction force generated by advancing the expanding member <NUM>. For example, the housing <NUM> may be coupled to a gear case of the expansion tool via one or more bearings.

The illustrated opening <NUM> has a square shape that forms a rotation-transmitting coupling with the drive member of the expansion tool. As such, once the first and second sections <NUM>, <NUM> have been moved to the expanded position, the drive member is operable to rotate the housing <NUM>, thereby rotating the first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM>. In other embodiments, the opening <NUM> may interface with the drive member in other ways (e.g., a spline interface, etc.).

In operation, with the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> in the retracted position (<FIG>), the first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM> are inserted into a PEX tube to be expanded (e.g., until the front surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> abuts an end of the tubing). Subsequently, the drive member forces the expanding member <NUM> forward in the direction of arrow A3 (<FIG>). The distal end <NUM> of the expanding member <NUM> bears against the cam surfaces <NUM> of the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> such that the first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM> expand to a distance corresponding with a desired expansion of the PEX tubing (<FIG>). Alternatively, with the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> in the retracted position, a drive mechanism in the expansion tool may translate the working element <NUM> to insert the roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> into a PEX tube to be expanded in addition to rotating the working element <NUM>.

Once the first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM> are in the desired position, the drive member rotates the housing <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM>, thereby rotating the first and second rollers <NUM>, <NUM> and, thus, expanding the entire inner circumference of the PEX tube. Once the PEX tube has been expanded to a desired diameter, the drive member is retracted, and the resilient ring <NUM> restores the first and second roller supports <NUM>, <NUM> back to the retracted position (<FIG>). At this point, working element <NUM> may be removed from the PEX tube and a fitting inserted into the tube. The expanded PEX tube recovers to form a seal around the fitting.

In some embodiments, the operation of the working element <NUM> can be controlled in various ways to achieve a desired expansion performance (e.g., expansion diameter, desired recovery time, etc.). For example, the rate and/or distance that the drive member moves the expanding member <NUM> may be variable. The rotational speed and/or duration that the drive member rotates the housing <NUM> may also be variable. In some embodiments, one or more of these parameters may be automatically varied based on a selected size of PEX tube to be expanded.

Typical working heads for PEX expansion tools include a plurality of jaws that repeatedly expand and retract to gradually expand the end of a PEX tube. Because there are gaps between adjacent jaws that form when the jaws expand, the jaws typically leave impressions in the inner circumference of the PEX tube that may result in gaps and leakage around an inserted fitting. The working elements <NUM>, <NUM> described above with reference to <FIG> each use rollers to smoothly increase the diameter of the PEX tubing. Thus, the working elements <NUM>, <NUM> advantageously leave no impressions in the inner circumference of the PEX tube, and the PEX tube may develop a more reliable seal with an inserted fitting.

After constructing a tubing system (e.g., using a PEX expansion tool such as a PEX expansion tool including the working element <NUM> or the working element <NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>, it may be desirable to test the tubing system to determine the integrity of the connection and seal between each tubing segment and each fitting. Accordingly, the present disclosure further provides systems and methods for testing the integrity of tubing system.

For example, <FIG> illustrates a PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing system <NUM>' including an inlet <NUM>', a plurality of interconnected tubing segments <NUM>', each terminating at a connection end <NUM>'. The connection end <NUM>' of each tubing segment <NUM>' receives a fitting (e.g., an elbow, a T-fitting, a plug, an adapter, etc.; not shown). To couple the fitting to the connection end <NUM>', a tube expander, including but not limited to the working elements <NUM>, <NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>, may be used to elastically expand the connection end <NUM>' in order for the fitting to be inserted into the connection end <NUM>'. Once the fitting has been inserted into the connection end <NUM>', the connection end <NUM>' gradually elastically recovers around the fitting, creating a fluid-tight seal between the fitting and the interior wall of the connection end <NUM>'.

<FIG> illustrates a leak identifying and sealing system <NUM>' according to one embodiment, which may be used to identify and seal leaks that may exist at any of the fittings of the PEX tubing system <NUM>'. The illustrated system <NUM>' includes a source of hot air <NUM>' that may be coupled to the inlet <NUM>' of the tubing system <NUM>'. The source of hot air <NUM>' may be a heat pump or the like. As the source of hot air <NUM>' begins to supply hot air into the inlet <NUM>', the hot air will only flow through the segments <NUM>' of the tubing system <NUM>' that lead to a leaking fitting <NUM>', due to the hot air escaping around the leaking fitting <NUM>'. As the hot air flows past the leaking fitting <NUM>', the tubing segment <NUM>' and the connection end <NUM>' proximate the leaking fitting <NUM>' begin to heat up. Cross-linked polyethylene tubing that has been expanded with a tube expander recovers (i.e. shrinks) more quickly at higher temperatures. Thus, as the hot air heats the connection end <NUM>' associated with each of the leaking fittings <NUM>', the elastic recovery of the connection ends <NUM>' around the fittings <NUM>' is accelerated to automatically provide a fluid-tight seal between the connection ends <NUM>' and the fittings <NUM>'.

In addition to speeding the elastic recovery process of the connection ends <NUM>' around their respective fittings, the system <NUM>' may be used to identify where a leak is occurring. Because the hot air will only flow through the segments <NUM>' of the tubing system <NUM>' that include a leaking fitting <NUM>', the segments <NUM>' that lead to the leaking fitting <NUM>' will be of a higher temperature than the segments <NUM>' of the tubing system with fully sealed fittings <NUM>'. In the illustrated embodiment, the system <NUM>' includes a portable thermal detector <NUM>' (e.g., a thermal camera or a similar apparatus such as an infrared thermometer), which may be used to detect the heat distribution across the tubing system <NUM>'.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in operation, the user <NUM>' connects the source of hot air <NUM>' to the inlet <NUM>' of the tubing system <NUM>' at step <NUM>'. Power is supplied to the source of hot air <NUM>' to pump the hot air into the tubing system <NUM>'. The hot air flows through any segments <NUM>' of the tubing system <NUM>' that lead to a leaking fitting <NUM>'. The hot air itself may seal the leak by accelerating recovery of the associated connection end <NUM> around the leaking fitting <NUM>'.

If some fittings <NUM>' continue leaking, the user <NUM>' may use the thermal detector <NUM>' to inspect the segments <NUM>' of the tubing system <NUM>' at step <NUM>'. The user <NUM>' follows the segments <NUM> that are at a higher temperature to identify any remaining leaking fittings <NUM>' at the ends of the higher temperature segments <NUM>' at step <NUM>'. By following areas of elevated temperature, a user <NUM>' operating the thermal detector <NUM>' may quickly and easily identify leaking connections <NUM>' and make appropriate repairs. For example, the user <NUM>' may use a heat gun (not shown) on the connection ends <NUM>' with the leaking fittings <NUM>' in order to produce a seal, the user may remove and reinsert the fitting, etc. Once all of the leaking fittings <NUM>' in the system <NUM>' are sealed, the user <NUM>' may decouple the source of hot air <NUM>' from the inlet <NUM>' at step <NUM>'. The tubing system <NUM>' can then be put into service and pressurized with fluid. Alternatively or additionally, other systems and methods for testing the integrity of the tubing system may be performed prior to placing the tubing system into service.

For example, the present disclosure further provides systems and methods for testing pressure in a tubing system, such as a PEX tubing system used, for example, in building pipework systems, hydronic radiant heating and cooling systems, domestic water piping, or insulation for high voltage electrical cables. Other applications include natural gas and offshore oil applications, chemical transportation, and transportation of sewage and slurries. PEX pipes (i.e., PEX tubing) may be used as an alternative to polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), or copper or galvanized steel tubing for use in plumbing systems. PEX pipes may be flexible such that they bend around or wind through building structures.

PEX pipes may be connected in systems using various methods, for example, copper crimping rings, stainless steel clamps, and compression fittings. Also, an expansion method utilized for connecting PEX tubing may use a PEX expander tool with a working element, such as the working elements <NUM>, <NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>, that stretches the diameter of a PEX pipe (i.e., tube). The end of a fitting (e.g., a brass fitting or connector) is then inserted into the expanded PEX pipe. The PEX pipe then retracts or shrinks and can create a water-tight seal around the fitting. The diameter of expansion and ambient temperature are two factors that may affect the time to seal the PEX pipe to the fitting.

However, in some embodiments, the time needed for a PEX connection to seal may vary depending on many factors and may be effectively random. In this regard, the time to seal may not be predicable for a single connection, but a prediction can be made about a group of connections (e.g., a group of connections made for plumbing a building). If connections in <NUM>% of PEX systems seal by time T_100, a user would wait that long for any particular PEX system to seal to be certain that all connections in their system are sealed before beginning pressure testing the system. However, in <NUM>% of PEX systems, all connections may be sealed by time T_75. Unfortunately, a user may not know which PEX systems seal quicker and must wait until time T_100 to start the pressure testing. This uncertainty means that a percentage of users will wait much longer than necessary to pressure test their PEX system. The present disclosure provides an automated pressure test device that monitors a PEX system over time and alerts a user when their system is sealed. The automated pressure test device thereby improves the time to complete pressure testing by eliminating time spent unnecessarily waiting for sealing, after the PEX system has already sealed, before beginning a pressure test.

<FIG> is a diagram of a system <NUM>" for measuring leaks in a tubing system (i.e., air fillable system or system under test) using a pressure tester. The system <NUM>" includes an air compressor <NUM>", a pressure tester <NUM>", and a tubing system <NUM>". The air compressor <NUM>" is connected to the pressure tester <NUM>", which is connected to the tubing system <NUM>" such that air flows from the air compressor <NUM>" through the pressure tester <NUM>" and into the tubing system <NUM>".

The air compressor <NUM>" is a device that converts power into potential energy stored as pressurized air (i.e., compressed air). The air compressor <NUM>" may be powered using, for example, an electric motor or a diesel or gasoline engine (not shown). The air compressor <NUM>" forces air into a storage tank (not shown), which increases the pressure in the tank over time. The compressed air is held in the tank until it is released from the compressor as kinetic energy and the tank depressurizes. When tank pressure reaches a lower limit, the air compressor <NUM>" may turn on again and re-pressurize the tank.

The tubing system <NUM>" comprises tubing in between a plurality of pipe connectors <NUM>" that connect the tubing system <NUM>" to other components of a plumbing system or to another tubing system or tube, for example. Other connectors <NUM>" (not shown) may be included in the tubing system <NUM>", for example, where a first tube intersects a second tube. In some embodiments the tubing system <NUM>" is a PEX system. However, the tubing system <NUM>" is not limited to a specific type of tubing system. For testing purposes, an output of the pressure tester <NUM>" is connected to an input connector <NUM>" for testing for leaks in the tubing system <NUM>". The pressure tester <NUM>" is described in further detail with respect to <FIG>. When the tubing system <NUM>" is in use, for example, as in a residential plumbing system, liquids may enter and/or exit the connectors <NUM>" to reach various destinations, such as a faucet in a building. In some embodiments, the tubing system <NUM>" may include any suitable type of air fillable system (e.g., pipes made of metal, plastic, or other materials). Also, in place of the tubing system <NUM>", other types of air fillable systems that receive pressurized air may be connected to the output of the pressure tester <NUM>" and tested for air pressure, or filled with air in a controlled manner by the system <NUM>" as described in more detail below.

<FIG> and <FIG> are illustrate a pressure tester device <NUM>" for monitoring a tubing system or other type of air fillable system over time, and alerting a user when a system is sealed or leaking. The pressure tester <NUM>" includes an air input <NUM>", a valve <NUM>", a system pressure sensor <NUM>", an air output <NUM>", and a controller <NUM>". A flow meter <NUM>" may be included as part of the pressure tester <NUM>", or may be separate or connected to the presser tester <NUM>". The flow meter <NUM>" measures the flow of air into, through, or out of the pressure tester <NUM>". The controller <NUM>" includes, among other things, an electronic processor <NUM>", a memory <NUM>", a communication interface <NUM>", and a user interface <NUM>". The pressure tester <NUM>" also includes, or is connected to, one or more ambient temperature sensors <NUM>" (illustrated as a single ambient temperature sensor <NUM>" in <FIG>). In some embodiments, where the system pressure sensor <NUM>" measures gage pressure, the pressure tester <NUM>" may also include, or be connected to, an atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>". In some embodiments, the valve <NUM>" is a solenoid valve. However, in some embodiments, the valve <NUM>" is another type of controllable valve. Also shown are a power source <NUM>" (e.g., a rechargeable battery pack in some embodiments), a connector <NUM>", and a T-connector <NUM>".

The air input <NUM>" is configured to receive input from the air compressor <NUM>" at a pressure suitable for testing the tubing system <NUM>". The valve <NUM>" is connected to the air input <NUM>" and the system pressure sensor <NUM>" is disposed between the valve <NUM>" and the air output <NUM>" such that when the valve <NUM>" is in an open position, air may flow from the air input <NUM>" through the valve <NUM>", the system pressure sensor <NUM>", and the air output <NUM>" to the tubing system <NUM>". When the valve <NUM>" is closed, air may be blocked from flowing through the pressure tester <NUM>". The default position of the valve <NUM>" may be closed and it may be opened for testing purposes. The air output <NUM>" may be connected to a connector <NUM>" of the tubing system <NUM>" when pressure testing of the tubing system <NUM>" is performed for detecting leaks and or sealed connections. In some embodiments, the system <NUM>" may not include the valve <NUM>". For example, the system <NUM>" without the valve <NUM>" may be utilized for monitoring air filling and/or air pressure in an air fillable system.

The system pressure sensor <NUM>" is a device that senses air pressure of the tubing system <NUM>". For example, when the valve <NUM>" is closed, the system pressure sensor <NUM>" may sense tubing system <NUM>" air pressure, generate a signal as a function of the air pressure, and transit the signal to the controller <NUM>" via the communication interface <NUM>". Various types of system pressure sensors may be utilized. For example, the system pressure sensor <NUM>" may be an absolute pressure sensor that measures pressure relative to perfect vacuum, or a gage pressure sensor that measures pressure relative to atmospheric pressure. Although the pressure tester <NUM>" is referred to as a pressure tester, in some embodiments, the pressure tester <NUM>" may not include the pressure sensor <NUM>". For example, the pressure tester <NUM>" (i.e., system <NUM>") without the system pressure sensor <NUM>" may utilize the valve <NUM>" for controlling the filling of a system under test such as the tubing system <NUM>", such that the system <NUM>" functions as a system fill device. The flow meter <NUM>" and/or a measured amount of fill time may be utilized to determine when filling of the air fillable system <NUM>" is complete.

The electronic processor <NUM>" of the controller <NUM>" may be communicatively coupled to the valve <NUM>", the system pressure sensor <NUM>", and the one or more ambient temperature sensors <NUM>" via the communication interface <NUM>". The electronic processor <NUM>" also may be connected via the communication interface <NUM>" to the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>" (in embodiments that include the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>"). In some embodiments, the pressure tester may include, or may be connected to the flow meter <NUM>" to measure air flowing into, through, or out of the pressure tester <NUM>". In some embodiments, the communication interface <NUM>" may be configured to communicate via a network to a server or user interface. The network may include, for example, a wide area network ("WAN") (e.g., a TCP/IP based network), a local area network ("LAN"), a neighborhood area network ("NAN"), a home area network ("HAN"), or a personal area network ("PAN") employing any of a variety of communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, etc. In some embodiments, the network is a cellular network, such as, for example, a Global System for Mobile Communications ("GSM") network, a General Packet Radio Service ("GPRS") network, a Code Division Multiple Access ("CDMA") network, an Evolution-Data Optimized ("EV-DO") network, an Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution ("EDGE") network, a 3GSM network, a 4GSM network, a <NUM> LTE network, a <NUM> New Radio, a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications ("DECT") network, a Digital AMPS ("IS-<NUM>/TDMA") network, or an Integrated Digital Enhanced Network ("iDEN") network, etc..

The memory <NUM>" of the controller <NUM>" is communicatively coupled to the electronic processor <NUM>". The memory <NUM>" may store a program and parameters for execution by the electronic processor <NUM>" that configure the controller <NUM>" to monitor sensor outputs and provide control signals to perform the pressure tests as described in more detail below. The program may produce a decision on whether the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed or leaking and provide a level of confidence in the decision.

The user interface <NUM>" includes one or more mechanisms that enable a user to interact with the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>". For example, the user interface <NUM>" may include one or more buttons, switches, and or keys for providing input to the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>". In some embodiments, the user interface <NUM>" includes a display screen, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or organic light emitting diode (OLED) display for providing information of the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>" to a user. For example, the display screen may provide pressure test analysis or results. See <FIG> and <FIG> for examples of test analysis and test results respectively. In some embodiments, the display screen may include touch screen technology that allows a user to provide input to, control, or configure system parameters of the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>". In some embodiments, the display screen may enable a user to input the type of system <NUM>" under test (e.g., tubing, pipes, or other systems made of plastic, metal, or other types of materials). The user-input may be utilized by the controller <NUM>" to manage air-flow control, a pressure test, and/or interpretation of test results.

The power source <NUM>" may provide power to the controller <NUM>", the valve <NUM>", and the system pressure sensor <NUM>". In some embodiments, the power source <NUM>" may provide power to the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>" and the ambient temperature sensor <NUM>".

In some embodiments, the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>" includes various connectors or fittings connected to the output of the valve <NUM>", for example, the connector <NUM>" and the T-connector <NUM>". The T-connector <NUM>" may be connected between the valve <NUM>" and the output <NUM>" to the tubing system under test. The T-connector <NUM>" may provide an airway for exposing the pressurized air in the system <NUM>" and/or the tubing system under test to the pressure sensor <NUM>".

<FIG> is a flow chart illustrating a method for performing a tubing system pressure test to determine whether connections of a tubing system are sealed or leaking. In step <NUM>", the air compressor <NUM>" is connected to the air input <NUM>" of the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>", and the air output <NUM>" of the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>" is connected to a tubing pipe connector <NUM>" of the tubing system to provide air flow access into the tubing system <NUM>". A user may then activate or power up the tubing system pressure tester <NUM>" via the user interface <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the valve <NUM>" is opened, by the controller <NUM>", and air flows from the air compressor <NUM>" to begin filling the tubing system <NUM>" with pressurized air via the air output <NUM>". This process continues until the tubing system <NUM>" is sufficiently pressurized, which can be determined by the controller <NUM>" based on time reaching a time threshold, measured system pressure reaching a pressure threshold, or both. In step <NUM>", when the tubing system <NUM>" is sufficiently pressurized, the valve <NUM>" is closed by the controller <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" of the controller <NUM>" receives an ambient temperature reading and stores this value as a reference value TAR for use in later calculations. The temperature value may be stored in any suitable units, but can be converted to an absolute temperature (relative to absolute zero) before use in the following calculations.

In step <NUM>", the pressure tester <NUM>" begins monitoring the tubing system <NUM>" for sealed or leaking connections. The electronic processor <NUM>" records the current time (tC), the system pressure (PS_RAW) received from the system pressure sensor <NUM>", and current ambient temperature (TAC) from the one or more ambient temperature sensors <NUM>". In some embodiments with a plurality of the ambient temperature sensors <NUM>" (e.g., located at various locations along the tubing system under test), the average temperature sensed by the plurality of ambient temperature sensors <NUM>" may be used as the current ambient temperature (TAC). In embodiments where PS_RAW is a gage pressure, a current ambient pressure (PAC) is also recorded. The current time can be absolute or relative and can be stored in any suitable units.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines a system pressure correction factor and determines the system pressure of the tubing system <NUM>". In particular, a correction factor for measured system pressure PS_RAW may be determined based on any change that occurs in the ambient temperature TAC after the closing of the valve <NUM>". For example, in some embodiments, when PS_RAW is a gage pressure, then system pressure PS is determined using the following equation: <MAT> In some embodiments, when PS_RAW is absolute pressure, then system pressure PS is determined using the following equation: <MAT>.

In some embodiments, different equations are used to determine system pressure. For example, in some tubing systems having larger volumes (e.g., a volume above a particular threshold), further or alternative correction factors may be used. In some embodiments, for tubing systems having larger volumes, the electronic controller <NUM>" implements a machine learning algorithm to calculate system pressure. For example, to implement the machine learning, the electronic controller <NUM>" may receive similar sensor inputs as described in the flow chart <NUM>" and provide the sensor inputs as input to a trained machine learning algorithm being executed by the electronic controller <NUM>". Based on the input, the trained machine learning algorithm then outputs a system pressure estimate. In some embodiments, the machine learning algorithm is trained in advance, e.g., by a manufacturer, and then stored on the electronic controller <NUM>" at the time of manufacture, and potentially updated via firmware updates to the electronic controller <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" uses the system pressure (PS) and current time (tC) values to determine whether tubing system <NUM>" being tested is confidently leaking, confidently sealed, or the state of the connections in the tubing system <NUM>" is undetermined. See the description with respect to <FIG> below for an example of this decision making process.

In step <NUM>", in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" confidently determines that the tubing system <NUM>" is leaking, the method proceeds to step <NUM>" to restart the test. In instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" does not determine with confidence that the tubing system <NUM>" is leaking, the method proceeds to step <NUM>". At step <NUM>", in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" confidently determines that the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed, the method proceeds to step <NUM>" and the system alerts the user that the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed. The controller <NUM>" may provide the alert via an audible, visual, or tactile indication provided via the user interface <NUM>", or may wirelessly transmit an alert to a user device (e.g., mobile device such as a smart phone or laptop) which produces an audible visual, or tactile indication. At step <NUM>", in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" does not confidently determine that the tubing system is sealed, the method proceeds to step <NUM>" to continue monitoring the pressure in the tubing system <NUM>". In some embodiments of the method <NUM>", in step <NUM>", the controller <NUM>" provides an indication of the determination from that step, via the user interface <NUM>" or wirelessly connected user device, to indicate whether the tubing system <NUM>" was determined to be confidently leaking, confidently sealed, or uncertain (i.e., neither confidently leaking or confidently sealed).

Although one or more of the steps <NUM>"-<NUM>" are described as being performed by the electronic controller <NUM>" or the electronic processor <NUM>", in some embodiments, some of these steps may be performed by a remote sever (i.e., a remote computing device) or another user device (see below).

<FIG> is a flow chart illustrating a method for monitoring and detecting leaks during a tubing system pressure test. In general, there are many ways to analyze system pressure vs time data to determine whether the tubing system <NUM>" is leaking or sealed. The example method described with respect to <FIG> utilizes robust regression, but other techniques or combinations of techniques such as a Kalman filter, confidence intervals, or various machine learning techniques are used in some embodiments and are also effective. In some embodiments, the chosen method produces a decision on whether the system is sealed or leaking and a level of confidence in the decision. Then, the method will continue to take in new data until the decision as to whether the system is leaking or sealed is made with a pre-defined level of confidence. The device may then take an action based on the confident decision.

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" generates lists of current time (tC) and system pressure (PS) data points collected during a monitoring session. The lists may be referred to as times and pressures respectively. In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" collects data points until at least three data points are stored in the memory <NUM>". When at least three data points have been collected. N is set to the number of data points: <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" determines the slopes (mfit) of lines connecting each data point to every other data point and determines the median slope of the lines. For example, the median slope mfit may be determined as: <MAT> However, there are other methods or optimizations that may be utilized for determining the median slope.

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" determines the y-intercept (bfit) of a line of the median slope (mfit) going through each point and determines the median y-intercept as: <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" determines the mean squared error for each point: <MAT> as: <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" determines the variance of the time (tC) data points as: <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", the electronic processor <NUM>" determines the probability that the true slope of the data is below a leak threshold slope (mleak) or above a seal threshold slope (mseal) as: <MAT> <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", the method proceeds to <NUM>" to restart the test (see step <NUM>" of <FIG>) in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" determines that the probability that the tubing system <NUM>" is leaking (e.g., connections <NUM>" are leaking) is greater than a predetermined confidence threshold (CT) as: <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" does not determine that the probability of leaking is greater than the predetermined confidence threshold (CT), the method proceeds to step <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the method proceeds to <NUM>" to alert a user in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" determines that the probability that the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed (e.g., connections <NUM>" are sealed) is greater than a predetermined confidence threshold (CT) as: <MAT>.

In step <NUM>", in instances when the electronic processor <NUM>" does not determine that the probability of a sealed tubing system <NUM>" is greater than the predetermined confidence threshold (CT), the method proceeds to step <NUM>" (see step <NUM>" of <FIG>).

As noted above, rather than the technique described with respect to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the electronic controller <NUM>" implements a machine learning algorithm to determine whether the tubing system under test is confidently leaking, confidently sealed, or has an undetermined state (i.e., to perform block <NUM>" of <FIG>). For example, such a machine learning algorithm may be used in tubing systems having larger volumes. To implement, the electronic controller <NUM>" may receive similar sensor inputs as described in the flow charts of <NUM>" and <NUM>", and provide the sensor inputs as input to a trained machine learning algorithm being executed by the electronic controller <NUM>". Based on the inputs, the trained machine learning algorithm then outputs an indication of whether the tubing system under test is confidently leaking, confidently sealed, or has an undetermined state. In some embodiments, the machine learning algorithm is trained in advance, e.g., by a manufacturer, and then stored on the electronic controller <NUM>" at the time of manufacture, and potentially updated via firmware updates to the electronic controller <NUM>".

Although one or more of the steps <NUM>"-<NUM>" are described as being performed by the electronic controller <NUM>" or the electronic processor <NUM>", in some embodiments, some of these steps may be performed by a remote sever (i.e., a remote computing device) or a another user device (see below).

<FIG> includes example plots of measured pressure vs. time and confidence levels vs. time that are used for determining whether a tubing system <NUM>" is leaking, sealed, or in an uncertain state. The method described with respect to <FIG> considers the system pressure vs time data and fits a line to the data using a robust regression. The slope of this line is an indicator of whether the system is sealed or leaking. Generally, a negative slope indicates that the pressure in the tubing system <NUM>" is decreasing over time and the system is leaking, while a zero slope indicates that the pressure is staying the same over time and the system is sealed.

The method described with respect to <FIG> determines the slope of the line that is fit to the data points. Then, it is determined whether the probability that the true slope of the data points, given the actual observed pressure values, is below a predetermined leaking threshold slope. Also, the method determines the probability that the true slope is above a predetermined sealed threshold slope (which may be a non-zero, negative value), which may be the same or different from the leaking threshold slope.

The determined probabilities represent confidence levels as to whether the tubing system <NUM>" is either leaking or sealed. The method continues to measure the pressures and analyze the data until it reaches a predetermined level of confidence in the decision, and then, in response, takes an appropriate action as described in <FIG> and <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates an example test results display in a user interface of the tubing system pressure tester. The test results display shown in <FIG> may be generated by the electronic processor <NUM>" and displayed via the user interface <NUM>" (e.g., as part of step <NUM>" of <FIG>). The test results display indicates when the pressure tester <NUM>" detects leaks in the tubing system <NUM>" or determines that the connectors <NUM>" of the tubing system <NUM>" are sealed. In some embodiments, the test results display an indication of whether the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed or leaking and a confidence level of the indication. For example, as illustrated, the further clockwise the arrow of <FIG>, the more confident the indication from the controller <NUM>" that the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed (and not leaking); and the further counterclockwise the arrow of <FIG>, the less confident the indication from the controller <NUM>" that the tubing system <NUM>" is sealed. Similarly, the further clockwise the arrow of <FIG>, the less confident the indication from the controller <NUM>" that the tubing system <NUM>" is leaking; and the further counterclockwise the arrow of <FIG>, the more confident the indication from the controller <NUM>" that the tubing system <NUM>" is leaking (and not sealed). In some embodiments, the controller provides other visual, audible, or tactile indications and associated confidence levels than the test results display that is shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a diagram of a pressure testing system <NUM>" including remote devices in communication with a pressure tester. The pressure testing system <NUM>" includes the pressure tester <NUM>", the tubing system under test <NUM>", the controller <NUM>", a cloud system <NUM>", and one or more user devices <NUM>".

The cloud system <NUM>" may include one or more servers or computing devices and one or more storage devices. The controller <NUM>" may communicate with a server or storage device in the cloud system <NUM>" via the communication interface <NUM>". In some embodiments, one or more servers in the cloud system <NUM>" may include one or more processors and memory for analyzing output data from the pressure sensor <NUM>" for a pressure test of a tubing system. In some embodiments, the one or more servers may be configured to generate a web application that can be rendered by a browser on the one or more user devices <NUM>". Alternatively, the server may transmit the output data, or analyzed output data, to a user device <NUM>" for rendering in a graphical user interface. In some embodiments, a server in the cloud system <NUM>" may be configured to receive notification that a pressure test has completed from the pressure tester <NUM>", determine whether the pressure test passed or failed based on user provided parameters, compile reports of the pressure test results, and automatically transmit the reports to the one or more user devices <NUM>". The reports of the pressure test results may be requested and/or defined by a user.

The one or more user devices <NUM>" may include any suitable device for receiving output data from the pressure sensor and presenting the output data via a user interface. The one or more user devices <NUM>" may include, for example, a smart phone, a laptop, and/or another type of computer system. The user devices <NUM>" may include one or more communication interfaces for wired or wireless communication with a server in the cloud system <NUM>" via a network such as the Internet, or directly with the pressure tester <NUM>". In some embodiments, the one or more user devices <NUM>" may include one or more processors and memory configured for analyzing the out-put data from the pressure tester <NUM>" and providing the results in a user interface. In some embodiments, the one or more user devices <NUM>" may execute an application for rendering pressure tester output data in a graphical user interface (GUI) or web browser. The one or more user devices <NUM>" enable a user to access results from off-site of the pressure tester <NUM>" in real-time or at a later time to notify users of pressure test results. The one or more user devices <NUM>" may be utilized by various individuals or professionals such as a plumber, a general contractor, a plumbing inspector, a property owner, or any other interested party. The cloud system <NUM>" may send notifications to multiple users on a multiple user devices <NUM>". In some embodiments, the one or more user devices <NUM>" display a graphical user interface that enables a user to select pressure testing parameters and transmit parameters (e.g., via the Internet) to the system <NUM>" to configure and/or run pressure testing. For example, an inspector may remotely specify or select parameters that are sent to the system <NUM>" by a user device <NUM>" for configuring and/or running pressure testing.

In some embodiments, the controller <NUM>" uploads output data from the pressure tester <NUM>" to the cloud system <NUM>" via the communication interface <NUM>". The cloud system <NUM>" may store the output data and/or transmit the output data to the one or more user devices <NUM>". In some embodiments, the controller <NUM>" communicates directly to the one or more user devices <NUM>" via the communication interface <NUM>". For example, the output data may be communicated via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi link or via a wired connection. The data may be transmitted from the controller <NUM>" to the cloud system <NUM>" and/or the one or more user devices <NUM>" while a test is progressing, or after one or more pressure tests have completed. For example, the controller <NUM>" may store the output data from the pressure tester in the memory <NUM>" until the data is retrieved by a server in the cloud system <NUM>" or by the one or more user devices <NUM>". Alternatively or in addition, or the controller <NUM>" may push the output data at a specified time or in response to a condition in the pressure tester system. In some embodiments, the controller may transmit notification that a pressure test has completed to a server in the cloud system <NUM>".

<FIG> is a flow chart illustrating a method <NUM>" for storing and retrieving pressure test results. In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" opens the valve <NUM>" to begin receiving air from compressor via the air input <NUM>" and filling the tubing system <NUM>" with air.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" closes the valve <NUM>" when the tubing system <NUM>" under test is sufficiently pressurized. For example, the electronic controller <NUM>" closes the valve after a predetermined amount of time elapses or when the pressure of the system <NUM>" exceeds a threshold as determined by the electronic controller <NUM>" by comparing output from the system pressure sensor <NUM>" with the threshold.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines a pressure level for the tubing system <NUM>". For example, as described above, the pressure of the system <NUM>" may be determined based on output from the system pressure sensor <NUM>", the ambient temperature sensor <NUM>", the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>", and/or time.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" records the pressure level data to the memory <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines whether the test of the system <NUM>" is complete. For example, the electronic controller <NUM>" may determine that the test is complete in response to a predetermined amount of time elapsing since the completion of step <NUM>", or in response to a detected fault. In step <NUM>", when the test is not complete, the system proceeds to step <NUM>" and waits for a specified time period (e.g., <NUM> milliseconds, <NUM> second, <NUM> seconds, <NUM> minute, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, etc.), and then proceeds back to step <NUM>" after the specified time period.

In step <NUM>", when the test is complete, the system proceeds to step <NUM>". In step <NUM>" the electronic controller <NUM>" makes pressure level data available for access by user device. For example, the controller <NUM>" transmits the pressure test results to the cloud system <NUM>" and/or one or more user devices <NUM>". The receiving user device <NUM>" may, in turn, may analyze and/or display the pressure test results in a graphical user interface of the user device <NUM>". Analysis of the pressure level data may be performed by the controller <NUM>" or an external computing device such as a computing device in the cloud system <NUM>" or the one or more user devices <NUM>".

<FIG> is a flow chart illustrating a method <NUM>" for communicating pressure test results to external devices, in accordance with some embodiments. In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" opens the valve <NUM>" to begin receiving air from compressor via the air input <NUM>" and filling the tubing system <NUM>" with air.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines a pressure level for the tubing system <NUM>" (e.g., pressure test results). For example, as described above, the system <NUM>" pressure may be determined based on output from the system pressure sensor <NUM>", the ambient temperature sensor <NUM>", the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>", and/or time.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" transmits pressure level data to a user device. For example, the electronic controller <NUM>" may transmit the pressure test results to the cloud system <NUM>". The cloud system <NUM>" may store the pressure level data and/or transmit the pressure level data to one or more of the user devices <NUM>" for display on a user interface of the user devices <NUM>". Alternatively, the pressure tester <NUM>" may transmit the pressure level data directly to the one or more user devices <NUM>" for display of the pressure level data.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines whether the test of the system <NUM>" is complete. For example, the electronic controller <NUM>" may determine that the test is complete in response to a predetermined amount of time elapsing since the completion of step <NUM>", or in response to a detected fault. In step <NUM>", when the pressure test is not complete, the electronic controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>". In step <NUM>", similar to step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" waits a specified time period and then proceeds to step <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", when the pressure test is complete, the system proceeds to step <NUM>". In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" transmits a test complete indication to a user device. For example, a test completion notification may be sent to the one or more user devices <NUM>" via a server in the cloud system <NUM>", or it may be transmitted directly from the communication interface <NUM>" to the one or more user devices <NUM>". The pressure test completion notification may also include results of the pressure test, such as pressure level data. In some embodiments the test complete notification may be stored in the cloud system <NUM>" with or without the pressure test results. The user device <NUM>" receiving the notification may, in turn, provide a human perceptible notification. For example, the user device <NUM>" may provide the notification as a visual notification on a graphical user interface of the user device <NUM>", an audio notification generated by a speaker of the user device <NUM>", a tactile notification generated by a vibrating element of the user device <NUM>", or a combination thereof. Analysis of the pressure level data may be performed by the controller <NUM>" or an external computing device such as a computing device in the cloud system <NUM>" or the one or more user devices <NUM>".

<FIG> is a flow chart illustrating a method <NUM>" for automatic fill of a tubing system for measuring pressure in the tubing system, in accordance with some embodiments. In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" receives a target pressure level parameter indicating a pressure level or pressure level threshold for filling the pressure sensor <NUM>" and the tubing system <NUM>" to a desired air pressure. The target pressure level parameter may be received via the user interface <NUM>" based on user input. Alternatively the target pressure level parameter may be received via the communication interface <NUM>" from the one or more user devices <NUM>", or from a server in the cloud system <NUM>". In some embodiments, pressure level parameters and other parameters for conducting pressure level testing are set based on local construction codes.

In step <NUM>", electronic controller <NUM>" receives a fill process initiation signal via the user interface <NUM>" based on user input, or via the communication interface <NUM>" (similar to step <NUM>"). For example, the fill process initiation signal may be received based on a soft or hard key button press on the pressure tester <NUM>" or user device <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" transmits a signal to the valve <NUM>" to open the valve <NUM>" to begin filling the pressure tester <NUM>" and the tubing system <NUM>", via the input <NUM>", with air from an air compressor connected to the input <NUM>". The air in the pressure tester <NUM>" is exposed to the pressure sensor <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" waits a specified amount of time while the air is received into the pressure tester <NUM>". In some embodiments, step <NUM>" is bypassed and the electronic controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>" without waiting a specified amount of time.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" receives an output signal from the system pressure sensor <NUM>" and/or one or more other sensors, such as the ambient temperature sensor <NUM>" and the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>". The electronic controller <NUM>" determines a pressure level of the system <NUM>" based on the output signals of the system pressure sensor <NUM>" and/or the one or more other sensors, as described above.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines whether the pressure level has reached a desired pressure threshold level. When the electronic controller <NUM>" determines that the pressure level fails to reach the threshold that is based on the target pressure level parameter, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>". When the electronic controller <NUM>" determines that the pressure level succeeds in reaching the threshold that is based on the target pressure level parameter, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" closes the valve <NUM>". At this point, the pressure tester <NUM>" and the tubing system <NUM>" are pressurized to a desired level.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" communicates to the one or more user devices <NUM>" indicating that the fill process is complete. The communication may be sent via the cloud system <NUM>" or directly to the user devices <NUM>", similar to the previously described notifications to provide an audible, visual, or tactile indication, or a combination thereof.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines whether a request for conducting a pressure test has been received by the electronic controller <NUM>". When the electronic controller <NUM>" receives a request for conducting a pressure test, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>" and begins a test to determine the pressure in the pressure sensor <NUM>" and the tubing system <NUM>". The test may then be conducted according to above-described techniques.

In step <NUM>", when the electronic controller <NUM>" does not receive a request for conducting a pressure test, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to the end step <NUM>", where the electronic controller may open the valve <NUM>" to release the pressurized air in the system, loop back to again execute block <NUM>", or wait for a further command.

<FIG> is a flow chart illustrating a method <NUM>" for immediate large leak detection in a tubing system, in accordance with some embodiments. In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" opens the valve <NUM>" to begin receiving air from an air compressor via the input <NUM>" and filling pressure tester <NUM>" and the tubing system <NUM>" with air.

In step <NUM>", when the pressure tester <NUM>" and the tubing system <NUM>" are pressurized to a desired air pressure level, the electronic controller <NUM>" closes the valve <NUM>". For example, the electronic controller <NUM>" closes the valve after a predetermined amount of time elapses or when the pressure of the system <NUM>" exceeds a threshold as determined by the electronic controller <NUM>" by comparing output from the system pressure sensor <NUM>" with the threshold. The desired pressure level and predetermined amount of time may be configured in the pressure tester <NUM>" via the user interface <NUM>" or via the communication interface <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" waits for a specified time. The time may be configured in the pressure tester <NUM>" via the user interface <NUM>" or via the communication interface <NUM>". In some embodiments, step <NUM>" is bypassed and the electronic controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>" without waiting a specified amount of time.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" receives an output signal from the system pressure sensor <NUM>" and/or one or more other sensors, such as the ambient temperature sensor <NUM>" and the atmospheric pressure sensor <NUM>". The electronic controller <NUM>" determines a pressure level based on the output signals of the system pressure sensor <NUM>" and/or the one or more other sensors. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM>" may transmit information based on the output signals of the system pressure sensor <NUM>" to a remote computing device for analysis and to determine the pressure level.

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines whether a specified pressure drop has occurred. When the electronic controller <NUM>" determines that a specified air pressure drop has occurred based on the measured pressure level, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>" and transmits a notification to the one or more user devices <NUM>" directly or via the cloud system <NUM>". The parameters for the specified pressure drop may be configured in the controller <NUM>" and/or the memory <NUM>" via the user interface <NUM>" or via the communication interface <NUM>" from the one or more user devices <NUM>". In some embodiments, the loss of air pressure according to the specified pressure drop over the specified wait time may indicate that the tubing system <NUM>" is rapidly losing air pressure.

In step <NUM>", when the electronic controller <NUM>" determines that a specified pressure drop has not occurred based on the measured pressure level, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>".

In step <NUM>", the electronic controller <NUM>" determines whether the time for conducting the pressure test has ended. When the electronic controller <NUM>" determines that the time for conducting the pressure test has ended, the controller <NUM>" proceeds to step <NUM>", and in step <NUM>", transmits a notification to the one or more user devices <NUM>" directly or via the cloud system <NUM>". As previously described, the user device <NUM>" may provide the notification to the user visually, audibly, tactilely, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments a user may input configuration parameters and/or receive indications of the test status and/or test results of the above methods via the user interface <NUM>".

The various methods as illustrated in the figures and described herein represent example embodiments of methods. The methods may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof. The order of method may be changed, and various elements may be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc..

Claim 1:
A working element (<NUM>, <NUM>) operable to expand an end of a tube (<NUM>), the working element comprising:
a main body (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to rotate about an axis (L, <NUM>);
a plurality of roller supports (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) movably coupled to the main body, the roller supports movable relative to the main body between a retracted position and an expanded position; and
a plurality of rollers (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the roller supports such that a distance between a first roller of the plurality of rollers and a second roller of the plurality of rollers increases when the roller supports move toward the expanded position,
wherein the rollers are configured to be inserted into the end of the tube when the roller supports are in the retracted position, and
characterized in that
the rollers are engageable with an inner circumference of the tube when the main body rotates about the axis to expand the end of the tube by centrifugal force.