Captive Hose Connector Clamping for Easier Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose connectors are not user-friendly due to the need for correct alignment of clamping rings and nuts, and they can be troublesome to dismantle, with the risk of losing or unscrewing parts, which increases costs when cable ties are used for installation.
Innovation Solution
A hose connector design featuring a body with concentric portions and a clamping nut with internal and external sawtooth threads, along with a coupling mechanism using ribs and cams for secure engagement without a separate clamping ring, allowing for simplified assembly and disassembly and captive connection of the clamping nut.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate clamping ring is used for securing the hose, then the hose connector provides reliable clamping, but the assembly becomes complex and troublesome to install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the clamping ring and clamping nut into a single integrated clamping element with an annular body and radially inwardly directed clamping surfaces. This eliminates the need for separate clamping components and reduces assembly complexity while maintaining reliable hose clamping through the integrated clamping structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element serves multiple functions: it provides the clamping action to secure the hose, acts as a threaded component that engages with the body, and integrates the functions previously performed by separate clamping rings and nuts. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall assembly while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If a separate clamping ring is used, then the clamping function is provided, but the risk of losing or unscrewing parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the clamping ring and clamping nut into a single clamping element, the patent eliminates the risk of losing separate parts during dismantling. The unified structure ensures that all clamping components remain attached to the body together, improving ease of operation during assembly and disassembly.
3Manufacturing precision
If correct alignment of clamping ring and nut is required, then proper coupling is achieved, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated clamping element eliminates the need for precise alignment between separate clamping ring and nut components. As a single pre-aligned unit, it engages with the body in one operation, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining proper coupling through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element is pre-manufactured as a single integrated component with the clamping surfaces and threading already precisely positioned relative to each other. This preliminary preparation of the correct geometry and alignment during manufacturing eliminates the need for field alignment operations, reducing assembly time.
4Reliability
If cable ties are used to prevent clamping ring unscrewing, then security is improved, but the overall cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated clamping element is designed as a single unified component that inherently prevents loosening through its construction. The body and clamping element form a captive connection where the clamping element cannot unscrew or become loose, eliminating the need for additional anti-loosening measures like cable ties and reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element's integrated design with the body creates a self-securing mechanism where the structure itself prevents loosening. The radial clamping surfaces and threaded engagement work together to maintain a captive connection without requiring external anti-loosening components, making the system self-sufficient and cost-effective.
Data Source
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AI summary
A hose connector (100) has a body (102). The body (102) includes a first body portion (106) and a second body portion (112). The first and second body portions (106, 112) define a gap (114) that is adapted to receive a hose (108) therein. The hose connector (100) also includes a clamping element (124) having a number of clamping claws (126). The hose connector (100) further includes a clamping nut (140) threadably coupled to the second body portion (112). The clamping nut (140) includes a tail portion (143) that is adapted to apply force on the clamping element (124) in an engaged position of the clamping nut (140). Additionally, the hose connector (100) includes a coupling mechanism (150) for capturing the clamping nut (140) with the second body portion (112). An inner diameter (D1) of the clamping nut (140) is defined such that the clamping nut (140) applies force on the clamping element (124) in the engaged position and the clamping nut (140) does not apply force on the clamping element (124) in a disengaged position.