Hose Connecting Assembly With Bulged Insert for Tool-Free Joining
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for connecting hose segments in maple tree sap harvesting systems are cumbersome, costly, and prone to damage due to the use of barb connectors, which require specialized tools and result in frequent repairs and replacements.
Innovation Solution
A connecting assembly featuring a main body with insert portions and bulges that allow secure, removable attachment of hose segments using a securing device, enabling quick and effortless connection and disconnection without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If barb connectors are used to connect hose segments, then the connection can be made securely, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized tools and workers
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion with a bore, a bulb portion for hose insertion, and a clamping mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick connection without complex assembly procedures or specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The bulb portion acts as an intermediary element between the hose and the clamping mechanism. It provides a simplified interface that guides the hose into the correct position and facilitates easy engagement with the clamping mechanism, eliminating the need for specialized alignment tools.
2Reliability
If barb connectors are used, then connection can be achieved, but hose segments are damaged and connectors break during dismantling
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is designed to apply controlled pressure that secures the hose firmly during operation, then releases cleanly during dismantling. The bulb portion's geometry ensures the hose is compressed uniformly without creating stress concentration points that would lead to damage or connector failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanism transitions from a loose state during insertion to a secured state during operation, and back to a release state during dismantling. This dynamic behavior allows the connection to be strong when needed but easily reversible without damage, eliminating the permanent deformation issues of traditional barb connectors.
3Reliability
If traditional connecting methods are used, then hose segments can be connected, but special tooling and specialized workers are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates self-aligning features through the bulb portion geometry and self-securing mechanisms that automatically engage when the hose is inserted. This eliminates the need for specialized tools or trained workers, as the connector performs the alignment and securing functions automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The bulb portion is pre-formed with a geometry that guides the hose into the correct position before engagement. This preliminary positioning action is built into the connector structure itself, eliminating the need for manual alignment or specialized tools during the connection process.
4Reliability
If barb connectors with aggressive deformation are used, then initial connection is secure, but connectors break during off-season dismantling
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to maintain secure connection during operation but release easily during dismantling. The spring-loaded or cam-actuated mechanism provides high clamping force when engaged, then can be quickly released without causing stress concentrations that would lead to connector failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design anticipates the dismantling phase by incorporating stress-distribution features in the bulb portion and clamping mechanism. These features prevent stress concentration during both connection and disconnection, cushioning against the forces that would otherwise cause connector breakage during off-season dismantling.
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting assembly for operatively and fluidly connecting at least first and second hose segments together. The connecting assembly includes at least one insert portion, and corresponding bulge(s), securing device(s) and fluid passage(s). The securing device is removably mounted onto and displaceable about a portion of a given length span of the insert portion, and configured for operation between a first release mode, where the securing device being is drawn away from the bulge and thus an extremity of the hosing segment is releasable, and a second connecting mode, where the securing device is removably and selectively displaced over an outward overlapping of the extremity of the hosing segment extending over the bulge, so as to securely maintain said extremity of the hosing segment in place, operatively against the bulge and thus, prevent the first extremity of the first hosing segment from being removed from the bulge.