Compression Collar Tube Coupling for Uniform Leak-Tight Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing tubes to tube fittings in biopharmaceutical systems face issues such as leakage and contamination due to pressure changes, non-uniform compressive force, difficulty in attachment, and relaxation of cable ties, leading to potential fluid contamination.
Innovation Solution
A tubular compression collar made of resiliently flexible material is expanded to fit over a tube and tube fitting, then allowed to rebound, creating a secure and uniform compressive force to form a liquid-tight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable ties are used to secure tubes to tube fittings, then the connection provides compressive force to prevent separation under pressure, but the cable ties create non-uniform compression with gaps that lead to leakage and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a compression collar made of resiliently flexible material that conforms to the tube and tube fitting surfaces, providing uniform compression around the entire circumference. This flexible collar eliminates the gaps and non-uniform compression issues associated with cable ties, while maintaining the compressive force needed to prevent separation under pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression collar's resiliently flexible material properties allow it to deform and conform to the geometry of the tube and fitting, ensuring uniform contact and compression. The material's elasticity enables it to maintain consistent compressive force around the entire connection interface, eliminating the localized gaps that occur with rigid cable ties.
2Reliability
If cable ties are manually secured around tubes, then they provide compressive force to maintain sealed engagement, but they are difficult to attach and control the amount of compressive force applied
Solution Approach 1:
The compression collar is designed to be self-installing by simply placing it over the tube and tube fitting connection. The resiliently flexible material automatically conforms to the geometry and applies the appropriate compressive force without requiring manual tightening tools or complex installation procedures, making it easy to operate while maintaining reliable sealed engagement.
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
The solution provides a reliable, uniform, and long-lasting seal that maintains sterility and prevents leakage, even under pressure changes, without the drawbacks of traditional cable ties.
Implementation Method 1
radially outwardly expanding a tubular compression collar from a constricted state to an expanded state
Implementation Method 2
allowing the tubular compression collar to resiliently rebound back towards the constricted state so that the compression collar pushes the tube against the tube fitting
Data Source
AI summary
A method for coupling a tube to a tube fitting includes radially outwardly expanding a tubular compression collar from a constricted state to an expanded state, the compression collar having a throughway extending there through and being made of a resiliently flexible material. An end of the tube is inserted within the throughway of the expanded compression collar, the tube bounding a passage. A tube fitting is inserted within the passage of the tube. The compression collar is allowed to resiliently rebound back towards the constricted state so that the compression collar pushes the tube against the tube fitting.