Hydraulic oil pipe locking tool in narrow space and operation method

Abstract

The narrow space hydraulic oil pipe locking tool provided by the embodiment of the invention comprises a variable-diameter sleeve head which is provided with a plurality of clamping teeth capable of moving in the radial direction and used for clamping joints with different outer diameter sizes in a self-adaptive mode; the universal torque transmission rod is connected with the sleeve head through at least three hinged joints so as to transmit torque at a limited angle; and the magnetic type quick-change interface is arranged between the transmission rod and the sleeve head and is used for realizing quick disassembly and assembly between the transmission rod and the sleeve head and preventing accidental falling. According to the locking tool, through the variable diameter-universal-quick change three-layer coupling principle, the narrow space locking problem is converted into three sub-problems of radial self-adaptive clamping, multi-degree-of-freedom torque transmission and instant reliable connection of interfaces, and the three sub-problems are broken through one by one.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of hydraulic system maintenance tools, and in particular to a hydraulic hose locking tool and operating method for confined spaces. Background Technology

[0002] In routine maintenance of hydraulic systems, scenarios such as diaphragm pumps, equipment interlayers, and mobile machinery frames commonly present challenges due to confined spaces and dense pipelines. Traditional open-end or box wrenches require a turning radius of over 120 mm, with the actual operable angle often less than 30°, making it difficult to apply full force. Socket wrenches, due to their large axial length, cannot be pushed along the oil pipe to the root of the connector. Field surveys show that approximately 63% of hydraulic leaks originate from loose connectors, which are mostly caused by insufficient installation torque or difficulty in secondary tightening. In confined spaces, visibility is obstructed, and operators cannot visually confirm the engagement of the hexagonal connector and socket, making it prone to slippage due to wear on the edges, damaging the sealing surface and posing a risk of high-pressure oil jetting. Furthermore, torque transmission efficiency is low under limited angles, with torque attenuation reaching over 25% during manual tightening, failing to meet the torque requirements of the ISO 8434 standard for high-pressure pipe connectors. While existing universal joints or flexible shaft solutions can change the direction of force application, their loose structure, large backlash, and inability to precisely control torque, coupled with a lack of quick replacement capability, result in low maintenance efficiency and long work cycles. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a hydraulic hose locking tool capable of achieving efficient, safe, and re-tightening within a 50 mm clearance range. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a hydraulic hose locking tool and operating method for confined spaces to solve the following technical problem: how to achieve efficient and reliable locking of hose joints in confined spaces.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a hydraulic hose locking tool for confined spaces, comprising: A variable diameter sleeve head, wherein the sleeve head has multiple radially movable teeth for adaptively clamping joints with different outer diameter sizes; Universal torque transmission rod, the transmission rod being connected to the sleeve head via at least three hinge joints to transmit torque under limited angles; A magnetic quick-change interface is provided between the transfer rod and the sleeve head to enable quick assembly and disassembly of the two and prevent accidental detachment.

[0005] Optionally, the variable diameter sleeve head includes: Split-type petal claw structure; A number of locking teeth are provided on the inner side of the petal claw. The locking teeth can slide radially under the action of spring preload to adaptively lock the joint in the range of Φ8mm-Φ27mm.

[0006] Optionally, the universal torque transmission rod includes: The structure is a three-section hinge, with each hinge joint having a deflection angle of ≥70°. The universal joint and planetary gear set are located inside the transmission rod.

[0007] Optionally, the magnetic quick-change interface includes: Neodymium iron boron permanent magnets; Mechanical anti-loosening lock is used to provide a secondary safety measure on top of magnetic attraction.

[0008] Optionally, the meshing surface of the locking teeth is provided with tungsten carbide particles, and the tooth profile angle of the locking teeth is 55°±2°.

[0009] Optionally, the surface of the transmission rod is provided with a laser-etched torque scale.

[0010] Optionally, the locking tool further includes: A torque sensor module is detachably mounted on the transmission rod for real-time monitoring and output of torque data.

[0011] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for locking or disassembling a hydraulic hose connector in a confined space using the locking tool described in any of the first aspects, characterized by comprising the following steps: S1. Connect the variable diameter sleeve head to the universal torque transmission rod via a magnetic quick-change interface; S2. Insert the sleeve head into the joint position along the axial direction of the oil pipe; S3. Apply axial pressure to trigger the toothed adaptive locking joint until tactile feedback ≥2kg; S4. The transmission rod is reciprocated at a small angle of ≥8° with a single rotation angle to achieve the fastening or disassembly of the joint.

[0012] Optionally, in step S3, the locking teeth automatically lock when the axial pressure is ≥5N to ensure that they do not loosen during subsequent rotation.

[0013] Optionally, in step S4, the minimum operating space is 50mm×50mm×100mm, and the time for a single tightening or disassembly is ≤8 seconds.

[0014] The technical solutions provided in this application have the following advantages compared with the prior art: This application provides a hydraulic hose locking tool for narrow spaces. Through a three-layer coupling principle of "variable diameter - universal - quick change," the locking problem in narrow spaces is transformed into three sub-problems: "radial adaptive clamping," "multi-degree-of-freedom torque transmission," and "instantaneous reliable interface connection," which are addressed one by one. First, the variable diameter sleeve head utilizes multi-tooth synchronous radial displacement to transform the traditional fixed hexagonal or dodecagonal profile into a retractable and expandable "elastic profile." It can envelop connectors of different outer diameters at a 0° angle, achieving radial constraint with one-time insertion and multi-point engagement, eliminating the risk of slippage due to dimensional errors. Second, the universal torque transmission rod forms redundant degrees of freedom with ≥3 hinged joints, expanding the wrench's rotation plane from a single plane into a foldable spatial chain. Even if there is an angle of ±30° or more between the sleeve and the locked axis, the torque can be decomposed segment by segment and transmitted directionally through the joints, ensuring continuous application of the designed torque even in narrow gaps. Finally, the magnetic quick-change interface utilizes a combination of permanent magnet preload and mechanical locking to achieve a disassembly and assembly efficiency of "1 second adsorption - 0.5 seconds release." Simultaneously, the magnetic attraction eliminates the axial dimensions of threads or snaps, allowing the sleeve head thickness to be compressed to within 8 mm, further reducing space requirements. The three principles work synergistically: variable diameter solves the "difficulty in centering," the universal joint solves the "fixed angle," and the magnetic interface solves the "slow disassembly and assembly." Thus, without adding an external power source, hydraulic hose fittings can be locked in confined spaces using a purely mechanical method, achieving single-handed, efficient, and reliable locking. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a hydraulic hose locking tool for narrow spaces provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0018] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0019] In this document, relational terms such as “first” and “second” are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase “comprising one…” does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a hydraulic hose locking tool for confined spaces provided in an embodiment of this application is shown as an example.

[0021] Please see Figure 1 In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a hydraulic hose locking tool for confined spaces, comprising: A variable diameter sleeve head, wherein the sleeve head has multiple radially movable teeth for adaptively clamping joints with different outer diameter sizes; Universal torque transmission rod, the transmission rod being connected to the sleeve head via at least three hinge joints to transmit torque under limited angles; A magnetic quick-change interface is provided between the transfer rod and the sleeve head to enable quick assembly and disassembly of the two and prevent accidental detachment.

[0022] Variable diameter sleeve head: A sleeve whose clamping profile diameter can be changed in the radial direction. Clamping teeth: Metal teeth located on the inner ring of the sleeve, capable of radial sliding, used for engaging the outer hexagonal or outer circle of the connector. Universal torque transmission rod: A rod composed of multiple hinged components that can transmit torque in any direction in space. Hinge joint: A rotatable node in a rod where adjacent sections are connected by a pin or ball joint. Magnetic quick-change interface: A mechanical interface that uses permanent magnet attraction to achieve "one-second engagement, half-second disengagement".

[0023] The variable diameter socket head transforms the "fixed hexagon" into an "elastic envelope" through the radial displacement of the locking teeth, enabling one tool to cover all sizes; the universal torque transmission rod decomposes the operator's linear wrench movements into multiple small-angle swings, while the socket end can still output pure torque; the magnetic quick-change interface allows the socket head and the rod to complete the engagement within 0.5 seconds, with permanent magnet attraction providing the first level of holding force and mechanical locking providing the second level of anti-disengagement.

[0024] In some embodiments, the variable diameter sleeve head includes: Split-type petal claw structure; A number of locking teeth are provided on the inner side of the petal claw. The locking teeth can slide radially under the action of spring preload to adaptively lock the joint in the range of Φ8mm-Φ27mm.

[0025] Split-type petal claw structure: The sleeve head is circumferentially divided into 3-6 independent "petals," each of which can float radially. Spring preload: The radial centripetal force applied to the cleaver teeth by the helical compression spring.

[0026] After the petal claws are divided, each claw can move independently radially under the action of a spring, forming an "adaptive gripper". When the outer diameter of the connector changes, the sliding distance of the gripper teeth is automatically adjusted to ensure simultaneous engagement at 6-12 points and avoid single-point overload.

[0027] In some embodiments, the universal torque transmission rod includes: The structure is a three-section hinge, with each hinge joint having a deflection angle of ≥70°. The universal joint and planetary gear set are located inside the transmission rod.

[0028] Three-section hinged structure: The rod consists of three rigid sections and 2-3 joints connected in series. Universal joint: A universal coupling that transmits torque between two intersecting shafts via a cross shaft. Planetary gear set: A three-piece set consisting of a sun gear, planet gears, and an internal gear ring, used to distribute torque during oscillation.

[0029] The three-section structure reduces the overall bending stiffness in stages, and each joint can deflect ≥70°, allowing the rod to "snake" into a 50 mm gap; the universal joint decomposes the input torque into two orthogonal components, and the planetary gear set then resynthesizes the two components into a coaxial output, ensuring that there are no dead points or springbacks when the rod is bent at a large angle.

[0030] In some embodiments, the magnetic quick-change interface includes: Neodymium iron boron permanent magnets; Mechanical anti-loosening lock is used to provide a secondary safety measure on top of magnetic attraction.

[0031] Neodymium iron boron permanent magnet: Nd-Fe-B rare earth permanent magnet with a remanence of 1.2-1.4 T. Mechanical anti-disengagement lock: refers to a press-type spring pin or rotating locking ring, providing a mechanical holding force of ≥200 N.

[0032] Neodymium iron boron generates a pre-suction force of ≥60 N to achieve "blind insertion" alignment; when subjected to accidental impact or vibration, the mechanical lock locks again to prevent accidental detachment caused by magnetic attenuation or oil contamination.

[0033] In some embodiments, the meshing surface of the locking teeth is provided with tungsten carbide particles, and the tooth profile angle of the locking teeth is 55°±2°.

[0034] Tungsten carbide particles: WC microparticles are embedded on the surface of the chuck teeth, with a hardness HRA≥90. Tooth angle: The angle of the symmetrical V-shaped groove in the longitudinal section of the chuck teeth.

[0035] Tungsten carbide particles are micro-embedded in the joint surface under high meshing pressure, forming a micro-mechanical lock and significantly improving anti-slip torque; the 55°±2° tooth profile angle balances sharp meshing and anti-chipping performance. The tooth profile angle includes, but is not limited to: 53°, 54°, 55°, 56°, and 57°.

[0036] In some embodiments, the surface of the transmission rod is provided with laser-etched torque scale.

[0037] Laser-etched torque scale: 0.1 mm deep markings are etched on the surface of the rod using a laser, with each division corresponding to 2 N·m.

[0038] Operators can perform approximate torque control in situations where an electronic torque meter cannot be installed by visually observing the scale, thus reducing over-tightening or under-tightening.

[0039] In some embodiments, the locking tool further includes: A torque sensor module is detachably mounted on the transmission rod for real-time monitoring and output of torque data.

[0040] Torque sensor module: a detachable sensing unit consisting of a strain gauge bridge, MCU, and Bluetooth chip.

[0041] The sensor measures the rod torque in real time and outputs it wirelessly to a mobile phone or tablet, enabling data recording and quality traceability; its modular design allows it to be installed or removed in 3 seconds without affecting purely mechanical operation.

[0042] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for locking or disassembling a hydraulic hose connector in a confined space using the locking tool described in any of the first aspects, characterized by comprising the following steps: S1. Connect the variable diameter sleeve head to the universal torque transmission rod via a magnetic quick-change interface; S2. Insert the sleeve head into the joint position along the axial direction of the oil pipe; S3. Apply axial pressure to trigger the toothed adaptive locking joint until tactile feedback ≥2kg; S4. The transmission rod is reciprocated at a small angle of ≥8° with a single rotation angle to achieve the fastening or disassembly of the joint.

[0043] Tactile feedback ≥2 kg: The axial reaction force felt by the operator's hand is produced by a spring-damping mechanism, resulting in a distinct "click" sensation. Small-angle reciprocating oscillation: Continuous tightening action with a single oscillation angle of less than 15°.

[0044] S1-S4 couples the three elements of "space constraints - tool size - operation action": the magnetic interface solves the problem of "being able to fit", the petal claw solves the problem of "being able to lock", and the small-angle swing solves the problem of "being able to twist", thus completing high torque output in the most compact space.

[0045] In some embodiments, in step S3, the locking teeth automatically lock when the axial pressure is ≥5N to ensure that they do not loosen during subsequent rotation.

[0046] Automatic locking: The locking teeth trigger the internal ratchet mechanism under an axial force of ≥5 N, and self-lock in the reverse direction.

[0047] When the axial pressure is ≥5 N, the ratchet teeth engage, and the radial position of the locking teeth is mechanically locked to ensure that they do not loosen due to vibration or torque reaction during subsequent rotation.

[0048] In some implementations, in step S4, the minimum operating space is 50mm×50mm×100mm, and the time for a single tightening or disassembly is ≤8 seconds.

[0049] Minimum operating space: refers to the three-dimensional envelope size required for the tool to complete one full tightening operation.

[0050] With its three-section hinge and ultra-thin socket head, the tool can be folded into a 50 mm × 50 mm × 100 mm "cubic prism" motion envelope, enabling rapid disassembly and assembly in 8 seconds even in extremely narrow areas such as engine compartments.

[0051] The technical solutions provided in this application have the following advantages compared with the prior art: Radial Variable: For the first time, the "split petal claw + spring-locking tooth" is introduced into the socket head, enabling a single tool to be infinitely adaptive within Φ8-27 mm, completely breaking away from the traditional hexagonal / dodecagonal specification barrier.

[0052] Variable angle: A composite universal structure consisting of "three-segment hinge + cross universal joint + planetary gear set" is inserted into the torque transmission chain to achieve no dead points and no springback when the joint deflection is ≥70°. For the first time, "large angle flexibility" and "high torque rigidity" are unified in the same rod.

[0053] Variable interface: The magnetic-mechanical dual-safety quick-change interface combines "second-level disassembly and assembly" with "anti-detachment safety" and compresses the thickness to within 8 mm, solving the pain point of traditional threads or buckles being unable to be screwed in narrow spaces.

[0054] Sensor-Mechanical Fusion: Embedding a detachable torque sensor module into a purely mechanical rod to form a "mechanical body". The "digital feedback" feature allows for switching between working modes, satisfying both rapid on-site operations and data traceability requirements.

[0055] In summary, this application achieves "one universal, one-second replacement, and one-time locking" hydraulic oil pipe joint operation within a minimum space of 50 mm × 50 mm × 100 mm through structural coupling and functional integration, overcoming the four major defects of existing technologies: multiple specifications, angle dead zones, slow disassembly and assembly, and lack of data.

[0056] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A hydraulic hose locking tool for confined spaces, comprising: A variable diameter sleeve head, wherein the sleeve head has multiple radially movable teeth for adaptively clamping joints with different outer diameter sizes; Universal torque transmission rod, the transmission rod being connected to the sleeve head via at least three hinge joints to transmit torque under limited angles; A magnetic quick-change interface is provided between the transfer rod and the sleeve head to enable quick assembly and disassembly of the two and prevent accidental detachment.

2. The locking tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The variable diameter sleeve head includes: Split-type petal claw structure; A number of locking teeth are provided on the inner side of the petal claw. The locking teeth can slide radially under the action of spring preload to adaptively lock the joint in the range of Φ8mm-Φ27mm.

3. The locking tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The universal torque transmission rod includes: The structure is a three-section hinge, with each hinge joint having a deflection angle of ≥70°. The universal joint and planetary gear set are located inside the transmission rod.

4. The locking tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The magnetic quick-change interface includes: Neodymium iron boron permanent magnets; Mechanical anti-loosening lock is used to provide a secondary safety measure on top of magnetic attraction.

5. The locking tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The meshing surface of the locking teeth is provided with tungsten carbide particles, and the tooth profile angle of the locking teeth is 55°±2°.

6. The locking tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the transmission rod is provided with a torque scale etched by laser.

7. The locking tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking tool also includes: A torque sensor module is detachably mounted on the transmission rod for real-time monitoring and output of torque data.

8. A method for locking or disassembling a hydraulic hose connector in a confined space using the locking tool according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Connect the variable diameter sleeve head to the universal torque transmission rod via a magnetic quick-change interface; S2. Insert the sleeve head into the joint position along the axial direction of the oil pipe; S3. Apply axial pressure to trigger the toothed adaptive locking joint until tactile feedback ≥2kg; S4. The transmission rod is reciprocated at a small angle of ≥8° with a single rotation angle to achieve the fastening or disassembly of the joint.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, In step S3, the locking teeth automatically lock when the axial pressure is ≥5N to ensure that they do not loosen during subsequent rotation.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, In step S4, the minimum operating space is 50mm×50mm×100mm, and the time for a single tightening or disassembly is ≤8 seconds.

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