Connecting Device Threaded Claw Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-pressure connecting devices for fluid applications face reliability issues due to uncertain locking of complementary engaging profiles, leading to safety concerns in high-pressure environments.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with elastically deformable means, such as springs, that automatically align and lock threaded claws, ensuring optimal interaction between complementary threads and reducing the risk of connection failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded claws are used for automatic connection, then connection speed and ease of operation are improved, but locking reliability deteriorates due to axial misalignment of threads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces axial play (parameter change in position tolerance) between the coupling member and body, allowing the threaded claws to move axially relative to the body. This parameter change enables the claws to self-align with the male connecting element's threads during engagement, resolving the misalignment issue while maintaining automatic connection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member is made dynamically movable axially relative to the body through the introduced play, rather than being fixed. This dynamic capability allows the threaded claws to automatically adjust their axial position during engagement, ensuring proper thread alignment and reliable locking while maintaining ease of operation.
2Device complexity
If threaded profiles are engaged without axial play, then structural compactness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen due to strict alignment tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
By intentionally introducing axial play as a parameter change, the patent relaxes the manufacturing precision requirements for thread alignment. The play acts as a tolerance buffer that absorbs misalignment variations, allowing broader manufacturing tolerances while maintaining proper engagement and locking functionality.
3Reliability
If elastically deformable means are added to enable axial movement, then locking reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses elastically deformable means (such as springs or elastic elements) to create and maintain axial play between the coupling member and body. This elastic mechanism provides the necessary axial movement capability for thread alignment while returning the components to their proper positions, improving locking reliability through a relatively simple elastic element rather than complex mechanical adjustment devices.
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 enhances the reliability and safety of high-pressure fluid connections by ensuring consistent and secure engagement of threaded profiles, preventing operator and installation risks.
Implementation Method 1
elastically deformable means able to push the coupling member back toward the rear side in a position where an axial play is defined between each coupling member and the body
Implementation Method 2
elastically deformable means able to push the control member back toward the front side in a maintenance position of each coupling member locked on the connecting end
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting device adapted to transmit pressurized gaseous and/or liquid fluids, configured to be coupled with a connecting end provided with an engaging profile and wherein the connecting device includes a tubular body that extends along a longitudinal axis between a front side facing the connecting end in the coupled configuration and a rear side facing opposite the connecting end, a control member that slides relative to the tubular body along the longitudinal axis and at least one coupling member positioned between the tubular body and the control member and including an engaging profile complementary to the engaging profile of the connecting end, and elastically deformable means that push the control member back toward the front side in a maintenance position of the at least one coupling member locked on the connecting end. The connecting device also includes elastically deformable means that push the coupling member back toward the rear side in a position where an axial play is defined between the at least one coupling member and the tubular body thereby allowing an axial movement of the at least one coupling member, relative to the tubular body and against the elastically deformable means acting on the at least one coupling member, toward a position locked on the connecting end.