Conduit Fitting Evaluation Apparatus for Axial Position and Clamping Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for evaluating the characteristics of mechanically attached connections, such as conduit gripping devices, lack precision in determining the position and clamping force, leading to potential misalignment and improper installation in fluid systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of an apparatus and method that senses the position of a conduit end relative to a conduit gripping device and monitors the clamping force during axial movement, using features like camming surfaces and position reference markers to ensure accurate installation and evaluation of conduit gripping device components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional evaluation methods are used for mechanically attached connections, then the evaluation process is simple, but the measurement precision of conduit gripping device position and clamping force is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical evaluation methods with electronic sensing systems. Position sensors detect the axial position of the conduit gripping device, and force sensors measure clamping force, substituting manual or mechanical measurement tools with electronic detection systems to achieve higher precision while managing complexity through integrated electronic measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices between the conduit gripping device and the evaluation system. These sensors act as mediators that convert physical quantities (position, force) into measurable signals, enabling precise evaluation without direct mechanical contact or complex manual measurement procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise sensing of conduit end position and clamping force is implemented, then installation accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex mechanical alignment and measurement mechanisms with electronic sensors. Position sensors automatically detect conduit end location, and force sensors monitor clamping force, replacing manual measurement tools and complex mechanical gauges with electronic detection systems that simplify the overall device architecture while improving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system operates autonomously to detect position and force parameters. The sensors self-calibrate and automatically provide measurement data without requiring complex external measurement equipment or manual intervention, enabling the system to perform its own evaluation and reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If camming surfaces and position reference markers are used to ensure accurate installation, then the reliability of connection is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates position reference markers and camming surfaces as pre-designed features into the conduit gripping device and conduit. These features are manufactured in advance with precise geometries that guide proper alignment and installation, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustment mechanisms and simplifying the assembly process while ensuring reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment systems with geometric features like camming surfaces and position reference markers. These features use precise geometric relationships rather than complex mechanical linkages or adjustment mechanisms, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining high connection reliability through inherent geometric constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for evaluating characteristics of components of a mechanically attached connection are disclosed. Characteristics that may be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the position of a conduit gripping device on a conduit, an amount of axial compression or stroke of the conduit gripping device, and an amount of clamping force applied to the conduit gripping device as the conduit gripping device is axially compressed or stroked.