Connector element for a hydraulic system

Abstract

The present invention provides a connector element (50) for connection to a hydraulic system during maintenance operations. The connector element (50) has a tubular structure with a first end (51) adapted for connection to a suction connector (13) and a second end (52) adapted for connection to a delivery connector (14) to connect the suction and delivery of the hydraulic system separately in the absence of a pumping device. The connector element (50) may have a U-shaped configuration, wherein the center distance (A) between the ends (51, 52) is equal to the center distance (B) between the suction connector (13) and the delivery connector (14). The present invention also provides a base (10) for a pumping device, the base including the connector element (50) reversibly fixed to the suction connector (13) and the delivery connector (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydraulic systems, and more specifically, to connector elements, bases for pumping devices, and methods for connecting hydraulic systems for suction and delivery without a pumping device. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of hydraulic systems, pumping devices are commonly used to provide the pressure and flow required for system operation. These pumping devices typically include a pump, an electric motor that drives the pump, and various auxiliary components such as valves and sensors. Pumping devices are usually connected to the hydraulic system via suction and delivery connections, which allow fluid to pass through the pump.

[0003] The assembly and maintenance of pumping units in hydraulic systems can present several critical challenges. In particular, when a pump needs to be temporarily removed for maintenance or replacement intervention, fluid flow in the system is interrupted, potentially causing service disruptions. Furthermore, disconnecting and reconnecting pumps can be complex and time-consuming, especially in systems with confined spaces or special configurations.

[0004] Another issue is ensuring service continuity even in the event of pump failure. In traditional systems, pump failure often leads to an interruption of hydraulic flow until the faulty unit is repaired or replaced.

[0005] Therefore, it has been recognized that there is a need for a connector element for hydraulic systems that can overcome one or more of these problems, particularly by ensuring the continuity of water supply service to end users in a simple, quick and reliable manner during maintenance operations, without the need for complex bypass systems integrated into household facilities. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is a maintenance kit for a hydraulic system. The kit includes at least one pump and a connector element. The system has a first connection interface, the pump has a second connection interface adapted for connection to the first connection interface, and the connector element is equipped with a third connection interface. The third connection interface of the connector element is identical in size and function to the second connection interface of the pump. This allows the connector element and the pump to be interchangeable for connection to the first connection interface of the hydraulic system.

[0007] The advantage of this configuration is that it allows for continuity of water supply service to end users, even when the pump is removed for maintenance or repair. Installers can simply replace the pump with connector components, avoiding flow interruptions and the need to assemble complex and expensive permanent bypass systems in the setup.

[0008] According to the invention, the connection interface is configured for connection by means of a reversible fastening device that ensures the system is airtight under pressure without the need for additional sealing materials, such as PTFE tape or sealant, to connect the pumping and delivery of the hydraulic system to each other without a pumping device and to maintain the continuity of hydraulic flow.

[0009] Furthermore, according to the invention, the first connection interface may include a forming seat, while the second and third connection interfaces may include through holes. The reversible fastening device may include a U-shaped resilient clamp configured to pass through the through hole and be received in the forming seat, thereby engaging the interfaces with a secure and reversible connection.

[0010] Another advantage of this invention is that this particular mechanical connection provides an exceptionally robust and reliable connection. The configuration with U-shaped clamps engages in the forming seat, preventing accidental disconnection due to vibration or pressure spikes, while ensuring that tightening and removal operations remain quick and tool-free.

[0011] Furthermore, according to the invention, the connector element may have a U-shaped tubular structure. The element is equipped with a first end and a second end adapted for reversible connection to a suction pipe and a delivery pipe, and the center distance between the ends is equal to the existing center distance between the pipes of the system.

[0012] The advantage of this feature is that it ensures perfect and instant alignment between the connector components and the hydraulic system. This eliminates the possibility of component installation errors and mechanical stress due to misalignment, ensuring a precise and effortless connection, which contributes to the overall system lifespan and reliability.

[0013] Another aspect of this disclosure is a reversible fastening device comprising two U-shaped resilient clamps and an application tool. The tool is configured to receive the clamps at a location corresponding to the connection interface, facilitating their assembly.

[0014] Another advantage of this invention is the superior ergonomics and assembly speed it provides. The application tool allows the operator to simultaneously position and insert two clamps with one hand, while the other hand remains free. This significantly speeds up the operation and makes it much easier, especially in narrow or hard-to-access spaces.

[0015] On the other hand, this document describes a kit that also includes at least one sealing gasket located on at least one end of a connector element. This gasket is suitable for ensuring an airtight seal of the system under pressure.

[0016] A significant advantage of this is the guarantee of a perfect and reliable hydraulic seal without the need for manual application of additional sealant. Pre-assembled gaskets provide an engineered sealing solution that prevents leakage, simplifies assembly, and ensures the system can be disassembled and reassembled multiple times while maintaining the same sealing performance. Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a kit in which the connector elements are made of plastic material.

[0017] Another advantage of using plastic materials is their light weight, corrosion resistance, and low production cost. These plastic materials allow for efficient large-scale production, do not rust or degrade upon contact with water, and minimize the risk of fluid contamination, making them ideal for drinking water applications.

[0018] In one aspect of the invention, the object described herein relates to a kit that further includes a base for a pumping device. The base is equipped with a fourth connection interface that is identical in size and function to the system's first connection interface.

[0019] The advantage of this approach is the creation of a perfectly modular and standardized system. The base defines a fixed and repeatable connection interface on which both the pump and connector components can be interchangeably mounted. This provides a complete and readily available solution, not only simplifying initial assembly but also forming the underlying platform upon which the entire logic of the invention's rapid and interchangeable maintenance is based.

[0020] Integrating connector components directly into the base of the pumping unit provides a complete and readily available solution for managing and maintaining operations, reducing intervention time, and improving the overall efficiency of the hydraulic system. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Various aspects of the invention will be described by way of example with reference to the following accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0022] Figure 1 An exploded side view of the maintenance kit according to the invention is shown, illustrating the connector element of the invention having a base for a pumping device.

[0023] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Top view of the assembled base and connectors.

[0024] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A side view of the components, with fluid flow highlighted by arrows.

[0025] Figure 4 A front view of the base with connector elements assembled is shown, highlighting the reversible fastening device.

[0026] Figure 5A cross-sectional view of the components is shown, revealing the internal connections between the parts.

[0027] Figure 6 An exploded view is shown, illustrating the removal of the pumping unit from the base.

[0028] Figure 7 An exploded view is shown, illustrating the assembly of the connector elements, which replace the pumping device, on the base. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Here, "connection" should be understood as a link between two components. This connection can be direct or indirect, physical or non-physical. The term "connection" can be considered as "link," "attachment," "attachment," or similar synonyms. "Reversible" means that it can be removed and reused multiple times without damaging the component. The term "suitable for" means that an element is designed or configured to perform a certain function, even if it doesn't necessarily perform that function at that moment. "Center distance" refers to the distance between the centers of two components measured along a straight line. "Hydraulic system" refers to a system that uses pressurized fluid. "Pumping device" refers to a device designed to move fluid by applying pressure.

[0030] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A base 10 for a pumping device is shown. The base 10 includes a suction connector 13 and a delivery connector 14. The suction connector 13 and the delivery connector 14 are configured to connect the suction and delivery of the pumping device to a first tubular element 18 and a second tubular element 19 of a hydraulic system, respectively.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown in the front view, the base 10 has a generally rectangular shape with rounded corners. Various mounting features and indicators, including directional arrows and alignment elements, are present on the surface of the base 10.

[0032] The suction connector 13 and the delivery connector 14 are arranged on the base 10 at a specific center distance, such as Figure 1 Dimension B is shown in the diagram. This arrangement allows the pumping device to be connected to the hydraulic system via the first tubular element 18 and the second tubular element 19.

[0033] The first tubular element 18 and the second tubular element 19 allow the pump base 10 to be integrated into the hydraulic system, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the system during pump operation.

[0034] Referring to the accompanying drawings, connector element 50 is shown, which is designed for use in a hydraulic system during maintenance operations. Connector element 50 performs an important function in maintaining the continuity of hydraulic flow when the pumping device is removed from the system for maintenance or replacement.

[0035] Connector element 50 has a tubular structure, such as a U-shaped configuration, as clearly shown in the figure. This configuration allows connector element 50 to effectively connect the suction point and delivery point of the hydraulic system, temporarily bypassing a non-existent pumping device.

[0036] A key feature of connector element 50 is its versatility in application. Even when pump base 10 is absent, connector element 50 can be directly applied to the hydraulic system. This flexibility allows for the use of connector element 50 in various system configurations to ensure continuity of hydraulic flow during various maintenance or system modifications.

[0037] The connector element 50 includes a first end 51 and a second end 52. The first end 51 and the second end 52 of the connector element 50 are configured to be connected to the suction connector 13 and the delivery connector 14 of the pump base 10, respectively.

[0038] Connector element 50 has the same proprietary interface as the pump it replaces. This allows connector element 50 to be perfectly connected to the existing connector on pump base 10 without the need for adapters or modifications.

[0039] The tubular structure of connector element 50 allows fluid to pass between the first end 51 and the second end 52, thus establishing a direct connection between suction and delivery in a hydraulic system without the need for a pumping device (see [link]). Figure 3 (The arrow in the image).

[0040] Now for reference Figure 1 The image shows an exploded side view of a maintenance kit according to the invention. The kit includes a base 10 and connector elements 50. The base 10 is designed to receive a pumping device and is equipped with a suction connector 13 and a delivery connector 14. These connectors are arranged at a fixed distance, defined as a center distance B. The base 10 is adapted to connect to a hydraulic system via a first tubular element 18 (during suction) and a second tubular element 19 (during delivery).

[0041] Connector element 50 has a rigid tubular structure in the shape of a "U" and has a first end 51 and a second end 52. A fixed distance between ends 51 and 52 defines the center distance A of the connector element. The center distance A of the connector element 50 is equal to the center distance B of the base 10. This dimensional correspondence (A=B) ensures perfect alignment and complete interchangeability between the pumping device and the connector element 50 on the same base 10.

[0042] Figure 2A top view of the assembly system is shown, with connector element 50 mounted on base 10. From this angle, the compactness of the components can be understood. The upper surface of base 10 has mounting features and indicators, such as directional arrows, that guide the operator to correctly position connector element 50 or the pumping device.

[0043] Figure 3 The side view illustrates the operation of connector element 50 as a bypass path. Arrows indicate the fluid flow: the fluid enters from the first tubular element 18, passes through the suction connector 13 of the base, travels through the U-shaped body of connector element 50, and exits via the delivery connector 14 to continue into the second tubular element 19. This creates a direct hydraulic connection, bypassing the point of assembly of the pumping device, ensuring continuity of flow within the system.

[0044] Figure 4 A front view of the components is shown, highlighting the reversible fastening devices. These devices consist of U-shaped clamps 60. The connector element 50 has through holes 62 at its ends 51, 52. The base 10 has seats or housings 61 at the ends of the delivery connector 14 and the suction connector 13. For fastening, the operator inserts the U-shaped clamps 60 through the holes 62 at the ends 51, 52, causing them to engage in the seats 61, which are configured to receive and hold the U-shaped clamps 60 in place. This simple and quick operation securely locks the connector element 50 to the base 10. “IN” and “OUT” indicators are also visible on the surface of the connector element to guide correct connection.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal connections. It can be observed how the internal channels of connector element 50 fluidly connect the suction connector 13 and the delivery connector 14 of the base 10. An annular washer 63 is provided at the interface between the ends 51, 52 of the connector and the corresponding connectors 13, 14 of the base; this washer ensures a perfect hydraulic seal once compressed by the clamping action of the clamp 60.

[0046] Figure 6 The first step of the maintenance operation is shown: removal of the pumping device 100. An application device 70 is shown, equipped with two seats, each adapted to receive U-shaped clamps 60, such that they are positioned at the correct center distance for application to the connector 50 and the pump 100. This application device 70 is particularly advantageous because it allows the removal operation to be performed with a single-handed gesture.

[0047] The pumping device 100 is initially mounted on the base 10 and locked in place by a U-shaped clamp 60, which engages with the ends 51, 52 of the device and the seat 61 of the base. The figure illustrates the removal of the U-shaped clamp 60 mounted on a single application device 70, and subsequently the removal of the pumping device 100, releasing the base 10.

[0048] In the same case, the application device 70 facilitates operation by allowing one hand to be used to position the connector element 50 while the other hand can insert the two clamps, speeds up the bypass assembly operation, and allows the operator to immediately focus on the necessary operations for pump maintenance.

[0049] at last, Figure 7 The second and final step of the operation is illustrated: assembling connector element 50. Connector element 50 is positioned on base 10, within the space provided by pumping device 100. Alignment is instantaneous and error-free due to the corresponding center distance of the connectors (A=B). The operator then uses the same application device 70, which receives the base of U-shaped clamps 60, freeing their arms to secure connector element 50. The U-shaped clamps 60 are inserted through holes 62 at ends 51 and 52 of element 50 and engage in the seats 61 of the suction connector 13 and delivery connector 14 of base 10, thus quickly and securely completing the bypass assembly without the need for special tools.

[0050] When connector element 50 is mounted on pump base 10, it bypasses suction connector 13 and delivery connector 14, shutting off the hydraulic circuit without interrupting water flow. This allows the user to continue using the domestic water network while the pumping unit is being maintained or repaired.

[0051] The distance between the first end 51 and the second end 52 of connector element 50 (in Figure 1 The dimension A) corresponds to the distance B between the suction connector 13 and the delivery connector 14 on the pump base 10. This dimensional correspondence allows for precise connection between the connector element 50 and the pump base 10.

[0052] In particular, the configuration of the pressure O-ring seal 63 (together with the holes 62 on the ends 51, 52 for receiving the arms of the U-shaped clamp 60) eliminates the need for additional sealing materials (such as PTFE tape) during assembly. This ensures a reliable seal and further simplifies assembly and maintenance operations, helping to maintain the integrity of the system under pressure.

[0053] As for the reversible fastening device, the first end 51 and the second end 52 of the connector element 50 are equipped with through holes 62, which are configured to receive the arms of U-shaped clamps 60. These U-shaped clamps 60 are the same as those used for hermetically connecting the pumping device to the pump base 10 in a seat 61 of a similar shape in the delivery connector 14 and the suction connector 13. This design allows for a hermetically tight and secure connection without the need for additional sealing materials, such as PTFE tape or sealant, facilitating installation, removal, and maintenance operations, and ensuring system compatibility and reversibility.

[0054] Features of any of the examples or embodiments described above can be combined to generate further examples or embodiments without losing the desired effect. It should be understood that the descriptions of the embodiments or examples provided above are for illustrative purposes only, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many further modifications and combinations of aspects can be made. Therefore, the described aspects are intended to cover all changes, modifications, and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A maintenance kit for a hydraulic system equipped with a suction pipe (13) and a delivery pipe (14) defining a first connection interface (61), the kit comprising: - At least one pump (100) having a second connection interface configured for reversible connection with the first connection interface (61); - Connector element (50), which is equipped with a third connection interface (51, 52); Its features The third connection interface (51, 52) of the connector element (50) is identical in size and function to the second connection interface of the pump, allowing the connector element (50) and the pump (100) to be interchangeable for connection with the first connection interface of the hydraulic system. The first, second, and third connection interfaces are configured to be connected by means of a reversible fastener (60), which ensures the system is airtight under pressure without the need for additional sealing materials.

2. The maintenance kit for hydraulic systems according to claim 1, characterized in that... The first connection interface includes a forming base (61). The second and third connection interfaces include through holes (62). The reversible fastening device (60) includes a U-shaped elastic clamp (60) configured to pass through the through hole (62) and to be received in the forming seat (61) to engage the interface in a secure and reversible connection.

3. The maintenance kit for a hydraulic system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The connector element (50) has: - A U-shaped tubular structure, which is equipped with a first end (51) and a second end (52), adapted to be reversibly connected to the suction pipe (13) and the delivery pipe (14) of the first interface, respectively. - The center distance (A) between the first end (51) and the second end (52) is equal to the center distance (B) between the suction pipe (13) and the delivery pipe (14).

4. The maintenance kit for hydraulic systems according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reversible fastening device (60) includes an application tool (70) and two U-shaped elastic clamps (60), the tool being configured to receive at least one U-shaped elastic clamp (60) at a location corresponding to the connection interface.

5. A maintenance kit for a hydraulic system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It also includes at least one sealing gasket located on at least one of the first end (51) and the second end (52) of the connector element (50) to ensure that the system is airtight under pressure.

6. A maintenance kit for a hydraulic system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The connector element (50) is made of plastic material.

7. A maintenance kit for a hydraulic system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It also includes a base (10) for the pumping device, which is equipped with a fourth connection interface that is the same in size and function as the first connection interface.

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