Adjustable hose clamping device
By using adjustable hose clamping device and butyl tape for vacuum sealing in the vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process, the existing sealing device is solved and the problem of high cost and inconvenient reuse is achieved, and higher sealing is achieved Reliability and ease of operation.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202380040031.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-05-13
- Filing Date
- 2023-04-13
- Publication Date
- 2024-12-27
AI Technical Summary
In the vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding process, existing sealing devices are costly and inconvenient to reuse, resulting in poor sealing may lead to leakage and increased cost of later repair.
The adjustable hose clamping device is adopted, and vacuum sealing is used with butyl tape for easy inspection and repair. It does not require cold shrink tubes and sharp tools. The clamping device can be manually operated and is suitable for different hose diameters.
The reliability and cost saving of vacuum sealing are achieved, process safety and operation convenience are improved, dependence on cold shrink pipes is reduced, and operating costs and leakage risks are reduced.
Smart Images
Figure CN119212851A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of vacuum assisted resin transfer molding. In particular, the present invention relates to an adjustable hose clamp device, a mold device including an adjustable hose clamp device, a method of manufacturing an adjustable hose clamp device, and a method of using an adjustable hose clamp device. Background Art
[0002] In today's vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process, an outer rigid mold shell and an inner flexible mold shell are used. Hose lead-ins are used to supply resin to the mold cavity containing the dry layup and to provide vacuum to the internal membrane filter. These lead-ins are in the form of steel branches with a certain degree of distance between the inner surface of the branch and the outer surface of the hose or molded plastic insert used.
[0003] On the outside of the mold, a rubber cold shrink tubing is used in combination with sticky tape and / or O-rings to seal the hose to the branch pipe. The cold shrink tubing is a highly flexible black EPDM tube that allows the pre-stretched rubber to adhere to the branch pipe and form a seal after the flexible core is unfolded. However, once installed, the cold shrink tubing completely hides the part that needs a complete vacuum-tight seal. In addition, the cold shrink tubing is a fairly expensive component that was not originally intended for disposable use. Instead, the cold shrink tubing is designed for the inner insulation (primary insulation) of solid dielectric insulated wire and cable splices rated for 1000 volts. In addition, when removing the cold shrink tubing, the cold shrink tubing must be split open with a knife. Over time, this will destroy the steel surface of the steel branch pipe. This may cause leaks to occur and may not be recognized.
[0004] Additionally, hiding the parts that require a completely vacuum-tight seal may result in a lower chance of recognizing possible faults and leaks throughout the casting process, increasing the cost of later repairs and error codes associated with air intrusion into the mold.
[0005] It would therefore be desirable to provide an apparatus for allowing reliable sealing, in particular vacuum-tight sealing, of a mould in a vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding process which is cost effective and reusable. Summary of the invention
[0006] One object of the present invention may be to provide an apparatus for allowing the sealing of a mould in a reliable and cost-effective manner. In addition, it may be desirable to enable the sealing, in particular the vacuum-tight sealing, of a vacuum mould to be checked during the moulding process. Therefore, one object of the present invention may be to provide an adjustable hose clamping device for a vacuum mould, which has an increased service life, reduced operating costs and allows increasing the sealing, in particular the vacuum-tight sealing, of the vacuum mould.
[0007] This object is solved by the following according to the independent claims: an adjustable hose clamping device for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose of a flexible insert to the free end of a steel branch pipe of a vacuum mold; a vacuum mold device comprising an adjustable hose clamping device and a vacuum mold; a method of manufacturing the adjustable hose clamping device; and a method of vacuum-tightly sealing a hose of a flexible insert to the free end of a steel branch pipe of a vacuum mold using the adjustable hose clamping device.
[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, an adjustable hose clamping device is described for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose of a flexible insert to a free end of a steel branch pipe of a vacuum mold, wherein the flexible insert is guideable from the interior of the vacuum mold to the exterior of the vacuum mold through the steel branch pipe. The adjustable hose clamping device comprises: a clamping device configured to fixedly clamp the hose so that relative movement between the hose and the clamping device is inhibited; a mold support configured for being mountable to the steel branch pipe of the vacuum mold; two connecting devices, wherein a first end of each of the two connecting devices is connected to the clamping device, and a second end of each of the two connecting devices opposite to the first end is connected to the mold support so that an outer surface of the hose near the free end of the steel branch pipe is accessible for vacuum-tight sealing between the hose and the free end of the steel branch pipe.
[0009] The invention is based on the idea that an adjustable hose clamp allows a vacuum-tight seal by means of a tape, in particular a butyl tape, and does not require any additional sealing material, such as a shrink tube. The seal allows a constant visual inspection and is easy to repair in the event of a leak. Since the seal is directly visible to the operator, ultrasonic leak detection is also possible. After the casting process, the adjustable hose clamp, in particular the clamping device, is released and stored for the next cycle. In addition, the steel branch pipe (steel bushing) is simply cleaned by removing the remaining butyl without any sharp tools. Therefore, by using the adjustable hose clamp, sharp tools and shrink tubes are not required. Therefore, better safety and lower costs of a vacuum-tight seal can be provided by the adjustable hose clamp. In addition, since the vacuum-tight seal is visible, the overall process safety can be improved. In addition, ergonomics can also be improved, because there is no need to pull the flexible insert (hose) in the shrink tube, which is both tricky and difficult for hands and fingers.
[0010] According to the present application, the expression "fixedly clamping the hose such that relative movement between the hose and the clamping device is inhibited" may particularly mean that the clamping device may exert a clamping force on the hose which may make the hose immovable during the sealing process, particularly immovable relative to the clamping device.
[0011] The expression "clamping device" may denote a device which is movable between a clamping configuration, in which the hose is clamped at the clamping device, and a releasing configuration, in which the hose is releasable from the clamping device. The clamping device according to the invention may be operated by a user in manual operation.
[0012] Furthermore, the expression "vacuum-tightly sealing the hose of the flexible insert to the free end of the steel branch of the vacuum mould" may particularly mean providing a seal between the outer surface of the hose and the steel branch such that no air enters from the environment through the vacuum-tight seal into the inner volume of the vacuum mould. In particular, the provided vacuum-tight seal is able to withstand a pressure difference between the ambient pressure outside the mould and around the hose and the pressure inside the vacuum mould. The ambient pressure may particularly be 1013 mbar, and the pressure inside the vacuum mould may particularly be 20 mbar. Thus, the vacuum-tight seal may inhibit the entry of air into the vacuum mould even under the influence of a pressure difference approaching 1000 mbar.
[0013] The expression "mould support" may denote a part of the adjustable hose clamping device which, in use, is mounted to a steel branch of the vacuum mould to form corresponding parts of the two connecting devices. The mould support is mounted to the steel branch in a first step. The hose is then clamped by the clamping device and the clamping device and the mould support are coupled by the two connecting devices.
[0014] Furthermore, the expression "steel branch of the mould" may be a part of the vacuum mould which can be mounted to the vacuum mould when the two mould halves are fixed together. The steel branch may be releasably fixed to the two mould halves. Furthermore, the steel branch may comprise a tube through which a hose of a flexible insert of the vacuum mould can be guided from the inside of the vacuum mould to the outside of the vacuum mould.
[0015] The expression "connection device" may denote a device formed to releasably connect the clamping device to the mould support. The two connection devices may in particular be identical connection devices. In particular, the connection devices may be configured to transmit the same forces, in particular tensile forces. Furthermore, the connection device may enable tensile forces from the clamping device on the flexible insert, such that a flush mounting of the inner flange of the flexible insert towards the inner surface of the vacuum mould, in particular the rigid mould shell, may be provided.
[0016] Furthermore, the expression "connected to a clamping device" or respectively "connected to a mold support" may denote a detachable and reattachable connection. In other words, the two connection devices may each be reusable.
[0017] The expression "the outer surface of the hose adjacent to the free end of the steel branch is accessible for a vacuum-tight seal between the hose and the free end of the steel branch" may mean that the free end of the steel branch and an adjacent portion of the hose are located between the clamping device and the mold branch when the clamping device is in a clamping configuration in which the hose is fixedly clamped and relative movement between the hose and the clamping device is inhibited. In addition, the distance between the clamping device and the mold support and therefore the length of the two connection devices is such that the user can access the free end of the steel branch with his hands.
[0018] According to another aspect of the invention, a mould device for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose of a flexible insert to a free end of a steel branch pipe of a vacuum mould is described. The mould device comprises the above-mentioned adjustable hose clamping device, and a vacuum mould, the vacuum mould comprising a flexible insert, a hose and a steel branch pipe, wherein the hose is fixedly clamped by the clamping device so that relative movement between the hose and the clamping device is inhibited, wherein a mould support is mounted to the steel branch pipe of the vacuum mould, wherein a first end of each of the two connecting devices is connected to the clamping device, and a second end of each of the two connecting devices opposite to the first end is connected to the mould support, and wherein an outer surface of the hose near the free end of the steel branch pipe is accessible for vacuum-tight sealing between the hose and the free end of the steel branch pipe.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of manufacturing an adjustable hose clamping device for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose of a flexible insert to a free end of a steel branch pipe of a vacuum mold is described, wherein the flexible insert can be guided from the interior of the vacuum mold to the exterior of the vacuum mold through the steel branch pipe. The method comprises: (a) providing a clamping device configured to fixedly clamp the hose so that relative movement between the hose and the clamping device is inhibited; (b) providing a mold support configured for being mountable to the steel branch pipe of the vacuum mold; (c) providing two connecting devices; (d) connecting a first end of each of the two connecting devices to the clamping device; and (e) connecting a second end of each of the two connecting devices opposite the first end to the mold support so that an outer surface of the hose near the free end of the steel branch pipe is accessible for vacuum-tight sealing between the hose and the free end of the steel branch pipe.
[0020] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose of a flexible insert to a free end of a steel branch of a vacuum mold is described. The ...
[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the clamping device comprises a first clamping element and a second clamping element, wherein the first clamping element and the second clamping element are configured for interacting with each other in a clamping configuration such that a relative movement between the hose and the clamping device is inhibited.
[0022] Thus, the clamping device may comprise a first clamping element and a second clamping element, which may be adapted and / or selected to fit a specific hose, in particular a specific shape of the hose. Thus, the adjustable hose clamping device may be used for different hose diameters. Thus, a flexible clamping device may be provided. In addition, the hose may be easily inserted between the first clamping element and the second clamping element when the first clamping element and the second clamping element are in a non-clamping configuration, i.e. in a released configuration. Thus, an easy to handle system may be provided.
[0023] The expression “the first clamping element and the second clamping element are configured for interaction” may mean that the first clamping element and the second clamping element may be formed with corresponding geometries, such that the first clamping element and the second clamping element may be formed to complement each other.
[0024] Relative movement between the hose and the clamping device may be inhibited by inhibiting relative movement between the first clamping element and the hose and simultaneously by inhibiting relative movement between the second clamping element and the hose.
[0025] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first clamping element comprises a first retainer, which is semicircular and comprises a first diameter, wherein the first diameter is substantially equal to the diameter of the hose, wherein the second clamping element comprises a second retainer, which is semicircular and comprises a second diameter, wherein the second diameter is substantially equal to the first diameter, and wherein the first retainer and the second retainer are configured to contact the outer surface of the hose when the clamping device is in the clamping configuration.
[0026] Thus, the clamping device may be easy to manufacture and at the same time may provide a reliable clamping of the hose.
[0027] By making the first diameter of the first retainer and the second diameter of the second retainer substantially equal, it may be possible to allow the clamping device to form a circular opening between the first retainer and the second retainer when in the clamping configuration for holding and clamping the hose.
[0028] By making both the first diameter and the second diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the hose, this may allow for easy and reliable gripping of the hose.
[0029] The expression "the first retainer and the second retainer are configured to contact the outer surface of the hose" may mean that the respective semicircular retainers are configured to contact the outer surface of the hose. In particular, the inner contact surface of the respective retainers may have a surface roughness that inhibits slippage of the hose when the hose is clamped by the clamping device in the clamping configuration.
[0030] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first clamping element and the second clamping element are further configured to be spaced apart from each other such that the hose is releasable from the first clamping element and the second clamping element when the clamping device is in the release configuration.
[0031] Thus, the clamping device can be moved from the clamping configuration to the releasing configuration in an easy manner by the user. Thus, the clamping device can be easily used. In particular, the hose can be released from the clamping device in an easy manner and with one-handed use.
[0032] The expression "release configuration" may denote a position in which the first clamping element and the second clamping element are spaced apart from each other such that the hose can be inserted between the first clamping element and the second clamping element. In addition, the hose can be released from the first clamping element and the second clamping element. Preferably, the hose can be "laid" into contact with one of the first clamping element, in particular the first holder, or the second clamping element, in particular the second holder, and the other of the first clamping element and the second clamping element is in contact with the other clamping element.
[0033] According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first clamping element and / or the second clamping element comprises a mechanical stop configured for preventing squeezing of the first clamping element and the second clamping element when the clamping device is moved into the clamping configuration.
[0034] Thus, a durable clamping device can be provided. In addition, the hose can be protected and damage to the hose can be avoided. Thus, a reliable seal can be provided.
[0035] The term "mechanical stop" may denote a feature that absorbs potential forces acting on the first clamping element and the second clamping element when the first clamping element and the second clamping element are in contact. In particular, the mechanical stop may be a built-in physical stop that prevents squeezing of the first clamping element and the second clamping element. The mechanical stop may in particular be an elastic cover.
[0036] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first clamping element further comprises a fastening portion, which is coupled to the first retainer and comprises two through holes, wherein the fastening portion is configured to connect the first end of each of the two connecting devices to a corresponding one of the two through holes.
[0037] Thus, a convenient clamping device can be provided. When the clamping device has been mounted to the mould support by means of the two connecting devices, the clamping device additionally allows clamping of the hose or adjusting the clamping of the hose.
[0038] The expression "a first end of each of the two connection devices is connected to a corresponding one of the two through holes" may mean that when the clamping device is mounted to the mold support, the connection device is inserted through the through hole so that the head is positioned against a surface of the fastening portion facing away from the mold support. In addition, the fastening portion is configured for connecting the first end of each of the two connection devices to a corresponding one of the two through holes so that when the clamping device is in the clamping configuration, the two connection devices each extend parallel to the hose that secures the clamp.
[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the clamping device also includes: a manipulation part, which is configured to be manipulated by a user and is configured to adjust the clamping force of the first clamping element and the second clamping element; and a first arm, which connects the manipulation part and the first clamping element; and a second arm, which connects the manipulation part and the second clamping element, wherein the first arm and the second arm are connected to the manipulation part via a hinge, which is configured to move the first clamping element and the second clamping element between a clamping structure and a release structure.
[0040] Thus, the clamping device may be easily operated by a user in single-handed use (eg, using only one hand).
[0041] The expression "adjusting the clamping force" may mean that different clamping forces and thus different holding forces may be adjusted by the user depending on the intended use, in particular on the characteristics of the hose to be clamped. In particular, the materials of different hoses may withstand different clamping forces or corresponding holding forces. In addition, the clamping force may depend on the pressure difference applied to the vacuum mold.
[0042] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first arm and the second arm are each formed in a C-shape. Thereby, the first arm and the second arm can be formed identically. In particular, the first arm and the second arm can each be coupled to the manipulation portion at a common hinge. Furthermore, the first clamping element can be replaceably coupled to the first arm at a first fastening point. In addition, the second clamping element can be coupled to the second arm at a second fastening point.
[0043] The expression "the hinge is configured to move the first clamping element and the second clamping element between a clamping configuration and a release configuration" may mean that the hinge may allow an angular movement of the first arm relative to the second arm. Thus, the first clamping element and the second clamping element may be moved between a clamping configuration in which the first clamping element and the second clamping element are in contact with each other and a release configuration in which the first clamping element and the second clamping element are spaced apart from each other.
[0044] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first clamping element is replaceably mounted to the first arm and the second clamping element is replaceably mounted to the second arm.
[0045] Thus, a flexible clamping device can be provided which can be used for hoses of different diameters and thus for different vacuum moulds.
[0046] The expression "replaceably mountable" may mean that the clamping element may be removed and another different clamping element may be mounted to the arm. In particular, clamping elements comprising different diameters may be mounted. Thus, if a hose having a larger diameter is to be clamped in the clamping configuration, the first clamping element and the second clamping element may be replaced by a different clamping element having a first retainer and a second retainer which are correspondingly semicircular and have a larger diameter.
[0047] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, each of the two connecting devices comprises: a screw, in particular a finger screw, which comprises a head at a first end, in particular a knurled head; a compression spring, which is arranged at the screw and is configured to exert a tensile force on the hose when the hose is fixedly clamped in the clamping structure; and a guide sleeve, which extends over substantially the entire axial extension of the screw, wherein the screw and the compression spring are arranged in the guide sleeve, and wherein the first end of each guide sleeve can be connected to the clamping device and the second end of each guide sleeve can be connected to the mold support.
[0048] Thus, a simple and reliable connection device can be provided, which enables the clamping device and the mould support to be connected simultaneously and provides a pulling force on the hose and thereby on the flange of the flexible insert. Thus, a flush mounting of the flange of the flexible insert against the inner surface of the mould can be provided. Thus, a vacuum-tight seal can be improved.
[0049] Providing the screw with a knurled head at the first end may provide the possibility of ergonomically mounting the screw.
[0050] The expression "exerts a tensile force on the hose" may mean that a compression spring is arranged at the screw so that a tensile force is exerted on the hose when the hose is fixedly clamped by the clamping device.Thereby, the flange of the flexible insert is flush mounted against the inner wall of the mold shell.
[0051] Furthermore, the term "guide sleeve" may refer to a guide tap or a guide bushing. The guide bushing may be a ridged hollow body having an external thread on its outer surface. In particular, at least a portion of the outer surface intended to be mounted to a mold support has an external thread.
[0052] By arranging each of the two compression springs on two opposite sides of the first retainer, an equal and uniform force transmission on the hose may be provided.
[0053] The expression “the first end is connected to the clamping device” may mean that when the clamping device and the mould holder are mounted to each other by means of two connecting devices, the head of the screw is positioned against a surface of the clamping device facing away from the mould holder.
[0054] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the mold support comprises two threaded guide holes, wherein each of the two threaded guide holes is configured to be used for mounting, in particular screw mounting, a corresponding one of two connecting devices, wherein the second end of the guide sleeve is configured to be assembled in a corresponding one of the two threaded guide holes.
[0055] Thus, a reliable detachable fixation of the connecting device and the mold support can be provided.
[0056] The term "threaded guide hole" may denote a blind hole comprising an internal thread along at least a portion of its axial extension.
[0057] In addition, the expression "the second end of the guide sleeve is configured to be fitted into a corresponding one of the two threaded guide holes" may mean that the outer diameter of the guide sleeve substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the threaded guide hole. In addition, the second end of the guide sleeve may include an outer thread corresponding to the inner thread of the threaded guide hole.
[0058] The expression "screw mounting" may refer to the connection of an external thread with a corresponding internal thread. In particular, the screw mounting may detachably fix a corresponding connection device in a corresponding threaded guide hole.
[0059] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first end of each of the two guide sleeves is fixed in one of the two through holes in the fastening portion.
[0060] Thus, a reliable connection between the mold support and the clamping device can be provided.At the same time, replaceable connecting devices can be used depending on, for example, the expected pulling force or holding force.
[0061] The expression “the first end of the guide sleeve is fixed in the through hole in the fastening part” may mean that when the clamping device and the mold support are mounted to each other by the connecting device, the first end of the guide sleeve is guided through the through hole and the head of the screw is positioned against the surface of the fastening part facing away from the mold support.
[0062] According to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the mold holder comprises two halves, which can be connected to each other, in particular by means of screws, wherein each of the two halves comprises a semicircular recess, which comprises a recess diameter, wherein the recess diameter is substantially equal to the outer diameter of a steel branch of the mold, and wherein, when the mold holder is mounted to the steel branch, the two semicircular recesses are configured for enclosing the steel branch of the mold, wherein, in particular, one of the two halves comprises two threaded guide holes, which are configured for mounting, in particular screw mounting, a respective one of the connecting devices.
[0063] Therefore, the mold support can be easily installed and removed from the mold. Thus, a reusable mold support can be provided, which saves costs.
[0064] In particular, the screw connection may comprise two screws mounted to opposite sides of the semicircular recess.
[0065] By providing two threaded guide holes in one of the two halves, it is possible to replace only one half, for example if the threaded guide hole is damaged and tightening of the guide sleeve may no longer be possible. Thus, the entire adjustable hose clamp device can be easily and cost-effectively maintained.
[0066] It should be noted that embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments have been described with reference to device type claims, while other embodiments have been described with reference to method type claims. However, a person skilled in the art will understand from the above and the following description that, unless otherwise stated, any combination of features related to different subject matters, in particular any combination of features of device type claims and features of method type claims, in addition to any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, is also considered to be disclosed by the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0067] The above-defined aspects of the present invention as well as further aspects will be apparent from the examples of embodiment described hereinafter and will be explained with reference to these examples of embodiment. The present invention will be described in more detail hereinafter with reference to examples of embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to these examples of embodiment.
[0068] Figure 1 An adjustable hose clamp arrangement with a hose and a steel branch pipe is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0069] Figure 2 A clamping device according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.
[0070] Figure 3 An adjustable hose clamp according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in side view.
[0071] Figure 4 An adjustable hose clamp according to an exemplary embodiment is shown in a perspective view.
[0072] Figure 5 A side view of a mold arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0073] The illustrations in the drawings are schematically. It is noted that in different drawings, similar or identical elements are provided with the same reference signs.
[0074] Figure 1 An adjustable hose clamp 100 is shown with a hose 182 and a steel branch pipe 191 according to an exemplary embodiment. The adjustable hose clamp 100 can be used to attach a flexible insert 584 ( Figure 5The hose 182 is vacuum-tightly sealed to the vacuum mold 593 (shown in FIG. Figure 5 The free end 192 of the steel branch pipe 191 (shown in a partial view in FIG. 1 ), wherein the flexible insert 584 can be guided through the steel branch pipe 191 from the inside of the vacuum mold 593 to the outside of the vacuum mold 593. The adjustable hose clamping device 100 includes: a clamping device 110, which fixedly clamps the hose 182 so that the relative movement between the hose 182 and the clamping device 110 is inhibited; a mold support 140, which is mounted to the steel branch pipe 191 of the vacuum mold 593; a first connecting device 120; and a second connecting device 120, which is the same as the first connecting device 120. Figure 1 Only the head 121 of the second connection device 120 is shown. The first end 151 of the first connection device 120 is connected to the clamping device 110, and the second end 152 of the first connection device 120 opposite to the first end 151 is connected to the mold support 140, so that the outer surface 186 of the hose 182 near the free end of the steel branch pipe 191 is accessible for vacuum-tight sealing between the free ends of the hose 182 and the steel branch pipe 191.
[0075] Figure 2 1 shows a clamping device 110 according to an exemplary embodiment. The clamping device 110 comprises a first clamping element 211 and a second clamping element 212. Figure 2 , the clamping device 110 is shown in a clamping configuration without the hose 182. The first clamping element 211 and the second clamping element 212 are configured to interact in the clamping configuration shown so that the hose 182 ( Figure 2 The relative movement between the first clamping element 211 and the second clamping element 212 is suppressed.
[0076] The clamping device 110 also includes a manipulation portion 273, which is configured for a user to manipulate the clamping device 110 and is configured to adjust the clamping force of the first clamping element 211 and the second clamping element 212. The manipulation portion 273 and the first clamping element 211 are connected by the first arm 271. In addition, the second clamping element 212 and the manipulation portion 273 are connected by the second arm 272. The first arm 271 and the second arm 272 are formed in a C shape. The first arm 271 and the second arm 272 are coupled to the manipulation portion 273 by a common hinge 276, which allows the first arm 271 and the second arm 272 to be in a clamping configuration ( Figure 2 ) and a release configuration in which the first clamping element 211 and the second clamping element 212 are spaced apart from each other so that the hose 182 can be released from the first clamping element 211 and the second clamping element 212.
[0077] The first clamping element 211 is coupled to the first arm 271 at a first fastening point 275, which is configured for allowing a replaceable coupling of the first clamping element 211 to the first arm 271. In particular, the first fastening point 275 comprises a screw connection between the first arm 271 and the first clamping element 211. Furthermore, the second clamping element 212 is coupled to the second arm 272 at a second fastening point 274, which is configured for allowing a replaceable coupling of the second clamping element 212 to the second arm 272. In particular, the second fastening point 274 comprises a screw connection between the second arm 272 and the second clamping element 212.
[0078] The second clamping element 212 includes a second retainer 214 that is semicircular and includes a second diameter 478 ( Figure 4 ). The second diameter 478 is substantially equal to the outer diameter 185 of the hose 182. The second retainer 214 includes a semicircular second inner contact surface 219 configured to contact the outer surface 186 of the hose 182 when the clamping device 110 is in the clamping configuration. The second inner contact surface 219 may be roughened to enhance the ability to inhibit relative movement between the second retainer 214 or the corresponding second inner contact surface 219 and the outer surface 186 of the hose 182.
[0079] The first clamping element 211 includes a first retainer 213, which is semicircular and includes a first diameter 477 ( Figure 4 182 ). The first diameter 477 and the second diameter 478 are substantially equal. The first retainer 213 includes a semicircular first inner contact surface 217 configured to contact the outer surface 186 of the hose 182 when the clamping device 110 is in the clamping configuration. The first inner contact surface 217 and the second inner contact surface 219 can be identical to allow for more uniform force transmission and clamping of the hose 182.
[0080] Furthermore, the first clamping element 211 comprises a fastening portion 218 coupled to the first retainer 215. Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 2 , the fastening portion 218 and the first retainer 213 may be formed as a single piece. The fastening portion 218 includes two through holes 279. Figure 2 As shown in , the two through holes 279 may be formed on two opposite sides of the first holder 213 .
[0081] The first clamping element 211 includes a mechanical stopper 216 formed at each of the two ends of the semicircular first retainer 215 as a part of the first retainer 213. Therefore, the first retainer 213 includes two mechanical stops 216 in total. In addition, the second clamping element 212 includes a mechanical stopper 216 formed at each of the two ends of the semicircular second retainer 214 as a part of the second retainer 214. Therefore, the second retainer 214 includes two mechanical stops 216 in total. The mechanical stops 216 of the first clamping element 211 and the mechanical stops 216 of the second clamping element 212 include matching geometric shapes. As a result, the extrusion of the first retainer 213 and the second retainer 214 can be suppressed.
[0082] Figure 3 An adjustable hose clamping device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in a side view. The adjustable hose clamping device 100 comprises a clamping device 110, two connecting devices 120 and a mold support 140. Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , only one of the two connected devices 120 is shown. Figure 3 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the mechanical stop 216 formed as part of the first retainer 213 and the mechanical stop 216 formed as part of the second retainer 214 include matching geometries for inhibiting extrusion of the first retainer 213 and the second retainer 214 .
[0083] The mold support 140 includes a first half 341 and a second half 342. Figure 3 The first half 341 and the second half 342 are mounted to each other by two screws 344, wherein Figure 3 Only one screw 344 is shown. The first half 341 includes two threaded guide holes 343, wherein Figure 3 Only one of the two threaded guide holes 343 is shown in the figure.
[0084] The connection device 120 includes a knurled head 121 at the first end 151 and is inserted through the through hole 279 ( Figure 2). As a result, the outer surface of the guide sleeve 324 contacts the inner surface of the through hole 279 at the first end 151. At the second end 152, the guide sleeve 324 is assembled into and mounted to the threaded guide hole 343 of the first half 341 of the mold support 140. In addition, the screw 322 and the compression spring 323 are arranged in the guide sleeve 324, whereby the compression spring 323 is arranged around the screw 322 and extends on a portion of the axial extension of the screw 322. When the hose 182 is fixedly clamped in the clamping structure, the compression spring 323 can provide a tensile force on the hose 182, and thus on the flange 181 of the flexible insert 584 of the vacuum mold 593. The screw 322 mounts the connecting device 120 to the mold support 140.
[0085] Figure 4 An adjustable hose clamp device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown in perspective view. The adjustable hose clamp device 100 includes Figure 2 The clamping device 110 described in more detail Figure 3 The two connecting devices 120 as well as the mold support 140 are described in more detail.
[0086] The first retainer 213 includes a first diameter 477, and the second retainer 214 includes a second diameter 478. Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG. 4 , the first diameter 477 and the second diameter 478 are substantially equal. The first diameter 477 and the second diameter 478 are selected according to the outer diameter 185 of the hose 182 to be clamped.
[0087] The mold support 140 includes a first half 341 and a second half 342, which are connected to each other by two screws 431. Each screw 431 is screwed into an internal thread of a fixing hole 432 in the second half 342.
[0088] The first half 341 includes a first semicircular recess 445, and the second half 342 includes a second semicircular recess 446. Both the first recess 445 and the second recess 446 include a recess diameter 447 that is substantially equal to the outer diameter 594 of the steel branch pipe 191 (both are within Figure 5 The two semicircular recesses 445 and 446 are configured to surround the steel branch pipe 191 of the mold 593 when the mold support 140 is mounted to the steel branch pipe 191.
[0089] The second half 342 includes two threaded guide holes 343 ( Figure 4 The corresponding connection device 120 is screwed into the threaded guide hole 343 (only one is shown in the figure).
[0090] Figure 51 shows a side view of a vacuum mold device 500 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The mold device 500 includes an adjustable hose clamping device 100 and a vacuum mold 593. The mold support 140 is mounted to a steel branch pipe 191, which provides a vacuum mold 593 from the mold support 140. Figure 5 The connection of the mold cavity shown on the right side of the vacuum mold 593 to the environment shown on the left side of the vacuum mold 593.
[0091] The clamping device 110 is mounted to a mold support 140 by two connecting devices 120, which is mounted to a steel branch pipe 191 of the mold 593. A flexible insert 584 is fixed to the flange 191 so that the molding material can be inserted into the vacuum mold 593 via the hose 182 after the hose 182 is vacuum-tightly sealed to the steel branch pipe 191.
[0092] At the free end 192 of the steel branch pipe 191, the hose 182 can be vacuum-tightly sealed to the steel branch pipe 191 in the sealing area 583 shown by the dashed line. Figure 5 As can be seen in the figure, the sealing area 583 is easily accessible. By selecting different lengths of the connecting device 120, the distance between the clamping device 110 and the free end 192 of the steel branch pipe 191 can be adjusted.
[0093] It should be noted that the expression "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the wording "a", "an" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, elements described in connection with different embodiments may also be combined. It should also be noted that the reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. An adjustable hose clamping device (100) for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose (182) of a flexible insert (584) to a free end (192) of a steel branch pipe (191) of a vacuum mold (593), wherein: The flexible insert (584) can be guided through the steel branch pipe (191) from the inside of the vacuum mold (593) to the outside of the vacuum mold (593), wherein the adjustable hose clamping device (100) comprises: a clamping device (110) configured to fixedly clamp the hose (182) so that relative movement between the hose (182) and the clamping device (110) is inhibited, a mold support (140) configured to be mounted to the steel branch pipe (191) of the vacuum mold (593), Two connecting devices (120), wherein a first end (151) of each of the two connecting devices (120) is connected to the clamping device (110), and a second end (152) of each of the two connecting devices (120) opposite to the first end (151) is connected to the mold support (140), so that the outer surface (186) of the hose (182) close to the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191) can be approached for vacuum-tight sealing between the hose (182) and the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191).
2. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to claim 1, in, The clamping device (110) comprises: a first clamping element (211), and A second clamping element (212), The first clamping element (211) and the second clamping element (212) are configured to interact with each other in a clamping configuration such that the relative movement between the hose (182) and the clamping device (110) is inhibited.
3. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to claim 2, in, The first clamping element (211) comprises a first retainer (213) having a semicircular shape and comprising a first diameter (477), wherein the first diameter (477) is substantially equal to an outer diameter (185) of the hose (182), wherein the second clamping element (212) comprises a second retainer (214) having a semicircular shape and comprising a second diameter (478), wherein the second diameter (478) is substantially equal to the first diameter (477), and Wherein, the first retainer (213) and the second retainer (214) are configured to contact the outer surface (186) of the hose (182) when the clamping device (110) is in the clamping configuration.
4. The adjustable hose clamping device (100) according to claim 2 or 3, in, The first clamping element (211) and the second clamping element (212) are also configured to be spaced apart from each other so that the hose (182) can be released from the first clamping element (211) and the second clamping element (212) when the clamping device (110) is in a released configuration.
5. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, in, The first clamping element (211) and / or the second clamping element (212) include a mechanical stop (216), which is configured to prevent the first clamping element (211) and the second clamping element (212) from being squeezed when the clamping device (110) is moved to the clamping structure.
6. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, in, The first clamping element (211) further comprises: a fastening portion (218) coupled to the first retainer (213) and comprising two through holes (279), The fastening portion (218) is configured to connect the first end (151) of each of the two connection devices (120) to a corresponding one of the two through holes (279).
7. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, in, The clamping device (110) further comprises: a manipulation portion (273) configured to allow a user to manipulate the clamping device (110) and configured to adjust the clamping force of the first clamping element (211) and the second clamping element (212); and a first arm (271) connecting the manipulation portion (273) and the first clamping element (211), a second arm (272) connecting the manipulation portion (273) and the second clamping element (212), wherein the first arm (271) and the second arm (272) are connected to the manipulation portion (273) via a hinge (276), Wherein, the hinge (276) is configured to enable the first clamping element (211) and the second clamping element (212) to move between the clamping configuration and the releasing configuration.
8. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to claim 7, in, The first clamping element (211) is replaceably mounted to the first arm (271), and Wherein, the second clamping element (212) is replaceably mounted to the second arm (272).
9. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in, Each of the two connection devices (120) comprises: a screw (322), in particular a screw (322), comprising a head (121), in particular a knurled head (121), at the first end (151), a compression spring (323) arranged at the screw (322) and configured to exert a tensile force on the hose (182) when the hose (182) is fixedly clamped in the clamping configuration, a guide sleeve (324) extending over substantially the entire axial extension of the screw (322), wherein the screw (322) and the compression spring (323) are arranged in the guide sleeve (324), Wherein, a first end (151) of each of the guide sleeves (324) is connected to the clamping device (110), and a second end (152) of each of the guide sleeves (324) is connected to the mold support (140).
10. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to claim 9, in, The mold support (140) includes two threaded guide holes (343), wherein each of the two threaded guide holes (343) is configured to be used for mounting, in particular screw mounting, a corresponding one of the two connection devices (120), The second end (152) of the guide sleeve (324) is configured to be assembled in a corresponding one of the two threaded guide holes (343).
11. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to claims 10 and 6, in, The first end (151) of each of the two guide sleeves (324) is fixed in one of the two through holes (279) in the fastening portion (218).
12. The adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in, The mold support (140) comprises two halves (341, 342) which can be connected to each other, in particular by screw connection, wherein each of the two halves (341, 342) comprises a semicircular recess (445, 446), wherein the semicircular recess (445, 446) comprises a recess diameter (447), wherein the recess diameter (447) is substantially equal to the outer diameter (594) of the steel branch pipe (191) of the vacuum mold (593), and wherein the two semicircular recesses (445, 446) are configured to surround the steel branch pipe (191) of the vacuum mold (593) when the mold support (140) is mounted to the steel branch pipe (191), One of the two halves (341, 342) comprises two threaded guide holes (343), and the threaded guide holes (343) are configured to be used for mounting, in particular screw mounting, a corresponding one of the connection devices (120).
13. A vacuum mould device (500) for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose (182) of a flexible insert (584) to a free end (192) of a steel branch pipe (191) of a vacuum mould (593), the vacuum mould device (500) comprising: An adjustable hose clamp device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and a vacuum mold (593) comprising the flexible insert (584), the hose (182) and the steel branch pipe (191), wherein the hose (182) is fixedly clamped by the clamping device (110) so that relative movement between the hose (182) and the clamping device (110) is suppressed, wherein the mold support (140) is mounted to the steel branch pipe (191) of the vacuum mold (593), wherein a first end (151) of each of the two connecting devices (120) is connected to the clamping device (110), and a second end (152) of each of the two connecting devices (120) opposite to the first end (151) is connected to the mold support (140), and The outer surface (186) of the hose (182) near the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191) is accessible for vacuum-tight sealing between the hose (182) and the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191).
14. A method of manufacturing an adjustable hose clamp (100) for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose (182) of a flexible insert (584) to a free end (192) of a steel branch (191) of a vacuum mold (593), wherein: The flexible insert (584) can be guided through the steel branch pipe (191) from the inside of the vacuum mold (593) to the outside of the vacuum mold (593), wherein the method comprises: providing a clamping device (110) configured to fixedly clamp the hose (182) such that relative movement between the hose (182) and the clamping device (110) is inhibited, providing a mold support (140) configured to be mounted to the steel branch pipe (191) of the vacuum mold (593), Two connection devices (120) are provided, connecting a first end (151) of each of the two connecting devices (120) to the clamping device (110), and A second end (152) of each of the two connecting devices (120) opposite to the first end (151) is connected to the mold support (140) so that the outer surface (186) of the hose (182) adjacent to the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191) can be accessed for a vacuum-tight seal between the hose (182) and the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191).
15. A method of using an adjustable hose clamp (100) for vacuum-tightly sealing a hose (182) of a flexible insert (584) to a free end (192) of a steel branch (191) of a vacuum mold (593), the method comprising: The flexible insert (584) is guided through the steel branch pipe (191) from the inside of the vacuum mold (593) to the outside of the vacuum mold (593), The hose (182) is fixedly clamped by a clamping device (110) so that relative movement between the hose (182) and the clamping device (110) is suppressed, Install the mold support (140) to the steel branch pipe (191) of the vacuum mold (593), connecting a first end (151) of each of two connecting devices (120) to the clamping device (110), and connecting a second end (152) of each of the two connecting devices (120) opposite to the first end (151) to the mold support (140), In particular, the hose (182) and the free end (192) of the steel branch pipe (191) are sealed vacuum-tightly by using an adhesive tape.