Connecting Device With Arcuate Edges For Deformation Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting devices with polygonal holes and tubular members often result in misconnections due to deformation of edges during assembly, as they require exact correspondence for a secure fit, which is not always achievable.
Innovation Solution
Designing the edges of the hole and tubular member as concave and arcuate, preventing deformation and ensuring a secure, yet easily releaseable connection by relative rotation, even with cylindrical connecting members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If polygonal holes and tubular members are designed with four, five or six corners to ensure exact geometric correspondence, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase and deformation during assembly occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by replacing the straight edges of polygonal holes with concave arcuate edges. The tubular members have corresponding convex arcuate edges that complement the concave arcs of the holes. This curved geometry allows for gradual engagement during assembly, reducing the risk of misconnection while maintaining reliability, and is more tolerant of manufacturing variations compared to sharp polygonal corners.
2Ease of operation
If force is applied during connection of cylindrical connecting members to polygonal holes, then connection is achieved, but deformation of the members occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the engagement process through the combination of concave arcuate edges on the holes and convex arcuate edges on the tubular members. This asymmetric curved geometry creates a natural guidance system that directs the tubular member into correct alignment with the hole, allowing connection to occur with minimal force and without deforming the members.
3Strength
If exact geometric correspondence is required for secure fit, then connection strength is improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The concave and convex arcuate edges create a tapered engagement path that guides the tubular member into the hole smoothly. The curved geometry provides gradual engagement that maintains connection strength through proper surface contact, while simultaneously making assembly easy by eliminating the need for precise alignment. Disassembly is facilitated by relative rotation that exploits the curved geometry to disengage the members.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connecting device for connecting discharge devices to packages (3) with liquid products, preferably foodstuff products, for discharging the products from the packages (3). The connecting device includes two connecting members which can be connected to each other, namely a first connecting member (9) which has a hole (11), the hole being closed by means of a closing member (13), and a second connecting member having a tubular member by means of which the closing member (13) can be penetrated for opening the first connecting member (9). The tubular member can be inserted into the hole (11) and pressed onto edge portions (16) of the hole (11) in the first connecting member (9). The hole (11) has four, five or six corners (15) and edge portions (16) which extend between the corners and the tubular member is designed to fit with the hole (11). The edge portions (16 and 18 respectively) of the hole (11) and the tubular member (14) respectively, are concave and arcuate relative to the centre (C1 and C2 respectively) of the hole (11) and the tubular member (14) respectively, and the concave and arcuate edge portions (16 and 18 respectively) of the hole (11) and the tubular member (14) respectively, connect to each other for defining the corners (15 and 17 respectively) of the hole (11) and the tubular member (14) respectively.