Corrugated Flexible Hose Structure for Lower Weight and Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible hoses used in gardening and similar fields are heavy due to multiple layers, making them difficult to handle and transport, and are costly to produce.
Innovation Solution
A flexible hose design featuring a corrugated tubular element with triangular outer crests and a lightweight polymeric material filling the corresponding troughs, allowing for axial flexibility and reduced weight, achieved through co-extrusion and vacuum modulation, with optional additional layers for reinforcement and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple layers are used to improve mechanical properties and resistance, then the strength and durability of the hose are improved, but the weight of the hose increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The hose combines a corrugated tubular element (structural framework) with a lightweight polymeric material (filling substance) to create a composite structure that achieves both mechanical strength and lightness. The corrugated element provides tensile strength and pressure resistance, while the lightweight polymeric material fills the troughs to maintain structural integrity without adding excessive weight.
2Strength
If multiple layers are used to improve mechanical properties, then the durability of the hose is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the structural support function and the filling/protection function into a single integrated structure. The corrugated tubular element and the lightweight polymeric material are combined in one manufacturing process (co-extrusion), eliminating the need for separate assembly steps and reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Ease of operation
If a corrugated structure is used to achieve flexibility, then the axial flexibility of the hose is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The corrugated tubular element features a specific corrugation profile with crests and troughs that provide flexibility while maintaining structural integrity. The curved geometry of the corrugations allows the hose to bend and flex axially without compromising its strength or requiring additional reinforcement layers.
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 hose achieves great lightness, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining mechanical resistance and fluid flow continuity, even under torsion and stress, with a 20-30% stretching capability.
Implementation Method 1
achieved through co-extrusion and vacuum modulation
Implementation Method 2
achieved through co-extrusion and vacuum modulation
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~8a
AI summary
The flexible hose comprises a first tubular element (2) of corrugated shape having in longitudinal cross-section a series of outer crests (4) and a second tubular element (3) of lightweight polymeric material externally associated with said first tubular element (2) so as to fill at least partially a corresponding series of troughs (5) alternately shaped by said outer crests (4).