Clinch Connection for Hose Clamp Mounting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamps for hoses and pipes face limitations in material selection due to the need for thermal methods like welding for connecting the clamp band and mounting element, restricting flexibility and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A clinch connection is used to connect the mounting element to the clamp band, allowing for cold-forming without heat or adhesives, utilizing a deep drawing process with a polygonal or hexagonal cross-section for secure frictional and positive engagement, enabling the use of different materials and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If thermal methods like welding are used to connect the mounting element to the clamp band, then the connection is relatively simple, but the selection of possible materials is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal connection methods (welding) with a mechanical clinch connection system. The mounting element features a clinch connection with polygonal cross-section that mechanically interlocks with the clamp band through frictional engagement and positive engagement, eliminating the need for heat-based welding processes and enabling broader material compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection parameter from thermal (welding temperature) to mechanical (clinch connection geometry). The clinch connection with its specific polygonal cross-section parameters creates a connection that relies on mechanical interlocking and friction rather than thermal bonding, thereby expanding material selection freedom while maintaining connection simplicity.
2Reliability
If a clinch connection with polygonal cross-section is used, then positive engagement exists to counteract rotary torque, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry in the clinch connection by giving it a polygonal cross-section rather than a circular one. This asymmetric geometry creates flat surfaces that provide positive engagement points, allowing the connection to effectively counteract rotary torque while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses torque resistance by adding geometric features in the cross-sectional dimension. The polygonal cross-section introduces flat surfaces perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, creating positive engagement points that prevent rotation without significantly complicating the longitudinal structure of the clinch connection.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the clamp band is formed into the mounting element, then the mounting element is arranged on the outer side avoiding hose damage, but the manufacturing process requires additional forming steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming the clinch connection with the specific geometry that will later engage with the mounting element. The clamp band is pre-formed with the appropriate contours and features that enable the mounting element to be positioned on the outer side, protecting the hose, while integrating seamlessly into the manufacturing process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a secure, cost-effective connection that maintains alignment and resists torque, allowing for the use of less expensive materials and enabling tensioning of the clamp without compromising hose attachment, while offering flexibility in material selection and construction.
Implementation Method 1
two materials which are capable of being cold-formed are connected with each other without the need of heat
Implementation Method 2
The clamp and the mounting member are then secured to each other through a frictional engagement
Implementation Method 3
the mounting element is not only connected to the clamp band through a frictional engagement, but that an additional positive engagement exists between the clamp band and the mounting element
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp with a clamp band and a mounting element which is connected to the clamp band. In a clamp band of the above-described type, this object is met by connecting the mounting element to the clamp band with a clinch connection. The clinch connection may have a polygonal cross-section. The clamp band and the mounting element may be formed of different materials at least in areas where they contact each other.