Carbon Fiber Tubing Coupler for Secure Joints and Smooth Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling devices for carbon fiber tubing do not account for fluid flow, making it difficult to create customized parts without retarding or disrupting the flow of liquids, air, or gases.
Innovation Solution
A tubing coupler with grooved engagement ends and a grooveless stock body that securely joins carbon fiber tubing pieces, featuring tapered and beveled designs to minimize fluid disturbance, and adhesive application for a strong chemical bond.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If structural couplers are used to join carbon fiber tubing, then the tubing pieces can be securely connected, but the flow of liquid, air, or gas through the customized part is retarded or disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into distinct functional zones: engagement ends with internal grooves for secure tubing attachment, a streamlined body portion for smooth fluid passage, and transition zones with tapered surfaces. This segmentation allows each zone to optimize its specific function without compromising the others.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the coupler have different geometric properties optimized for their specific functions: the engagement ends feature grooves and ridges for mechanical interlocking, the body portion has a streamlined shape for fluid dynamics, and tapered sections provide smooth transitions. Each local region has quality characteristics tailored to its role.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized parts are made from standard length carbon fiber tubing, then the parts can be fabricated, but it is difficult to achieve precise customization without disrupting fluid flow
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler serves multiple functions: it joins tubing sections, maintains fluid flow, provides sealing surfaces, and enables customization. The universal design allows it to work with different tubing lengths and configurations while preserving fluid dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates pre-designed streamlined features and smooth transitions that anticipate fluid flow requirements. The internal geometry is预先 configured to minimize turbulence and pressure drops, allowing customization without compromising fluid dynamics.
3Strength
If grooved engagement ends are used to secure tubing, then engagement strength is improved, but fluid flow may be disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The grooves are extracted and confined to specific engagement zones at the ends of the coupler, separating the mechanical engagement function from the fluid flow path. The grooves provide secure tubing attachment without extending into the fluid passage, thus maintaining smooth flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The grooves are positioned in a dimension (radial circumference at the engagement ends) that is separate from the primary fluid flow dimension (axial passage through the body). This dimensional separation allows grooves to provide engagement strength without interfering with fluid flow through the coupler.
Data Source
AI summary
A tubing coupler. The coupler includes a tubular body and a a stock body portion that is grooveless. The tubing coupler also includes a first engagement end with a first set of grooves disposed thereon to engage with an inside portion of a first piece of tubing. A method of making a customized part with the tubing coupler. The method includes securing at least a portion of the tubing coupler inside a first piece of carbon fiber tubing.