Compression-Fit Elastomeric Hose Connector to Prevent Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing converter hoses face challenges in securely attaching a soft thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) connector to a more rigid hose without detachment, and they often collapse under typical water pressure, leading to leakage and inconsistent performance across various fixture sizes.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring an elastomeric connector with a rigid compression fitting, including a female cap, double-sided male component, and insert, which provides a secure seal and prevents collapse by compressing the elastomeric connector flange against the rim of the female cap, allowing for easy attachment and detachment from fixtures of different sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a soft thermoplastic elastomer connector is attached to a rigid hose, then ease of attachment to fixtures is improved, but the connector detaches under water pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a soft elastomeric connector for easy fixture attachment, a rigid compression fitting for secure hose connection, and a sealing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines soft thermoplastic elastomer material for the connector portion with rigid compression fitting materials, creating a composite structure that leverages the advantages of both material types: flexibility and ease of attachment from the elastomer, and structural integrity and security from the rigid fitting.
2Ease of operation
If the elastomeric connector is made softer for easier attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but the hose collapses under water pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly separates the soft elastomeric connector function from the structural support function, placing the latter in the rigid compression fitting. This allows the elastomeric portion to remain soft and easy to attach while the rigid fitting prevents collapse under water pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the connector assembly have different material properties optimized for their specific functions: the elastomeric connector portion is soft and flexible for easy attachment, while the compression fitting portion is rigid for structural integrity and collapse prevention.
3Strength
If the connector is made rigid to prevent collapse, then structural integrity is improved, but attachment to fixtures becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the connector into two segments with different rigidity characteristics: a soft elastomeric connector for easy fixture attachment and a rigid compression fitting for structural integrity. Each segment performs its optimized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly uses composite construction combining soft elastomeric materials with rigid materials, allowing the assembly to exhibit both ease of attachment (from the soft portion) and structural integrity (from the rigid portion) simultaneously.
4Reliability
If a compression fitting is added to secure the connector, then attachment security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression fitting components (female cap, double-sided male component, and insert) are merged into a single integrated assembly that functions as one unit. This reduces the number of separate parts to manage while maintaining the security function.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression fitting is designed to be self-assembling and self-sealing, requiring no additional tools or complex procedures beyond basic insertion and compression actions. The cam and follower mechanism automatically provides the necessary clamping force.
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 ensures minimal water leakage (<1%) and maintains the hose's integrity under typical water pressure, enabling the converter hose to effectively adapt to various fixture sizes without collapsing, facilitating easy replacement of components and extension of the hose without additional manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
the insert flange and the connector flange are compressed against the rim forming a seal
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly may include an elastomeric connector comprising an approximately perpendicular flange at a distal end thereof and an opening therethrough; and a rigid compression fitting having an opening aligned with the opening of the elastomeric connector. The connector assembly may be used with a converter hose. Related methods include attaching the converter hose to a shower head, faucet or spigot.