Elastomeric Hose Connector Assembly That Resists Pressure 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 a rigid compression fitting with a female cap, double-sided male component, and insert, which aligns with the elastomeric connector to form a secure seal, preventing leakage and maintaining structural integrity under pressure, and allowing easy detachment and reattachment for component replacement and hose extension.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a soft TPE connector is attached to a rigid hose using existing methods, then the connector can be easily attached, but the connection detaches under water pressure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of attachmentVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly is divided into distinct components: a compression fitting with a compression member, a barrier ring, and an insert. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the barrier ring prevents insertion too far, the compression member provides secure attachment, and the insert maintains structural integrity, collectively solving both ease of attachment and connection stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The insert is positioned inside the connector assembly, with the barrier ring and compression member nested within the compression fitting. This nested structure allows the soft TPE connector to be securely held by the rigid components while maintaining ease of attachment and preventing detachment under pressure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Strength

If the connector assembly is made rigid to prevent collapse, then structural integrity is maintained, but the connector cannot easily fit various fixture sizes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidadaptability to fixture sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Different parts of the connector assembly have different rigidity properties. The compression fitting and insert are rigid to maintain structural integrity and prevent collapse, while the TPE connector portion remains flexible to adapt to various fixture sizes. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If the connector is made flexible to fit various fixtures, then versatility is improved, but the connector collapses under water pressure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility across fixture sizesVSAvoidresistance to collapse

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly combines different materials with complementary properties: flexible TPE material for the connector portion that fits various fixtures, and rigid materials for the compression fitting and insert that prevent collapse under pressure. This composite structure integrates the advantages of both flexible and rigid materials, resolving the contradiction between versatility and strength

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

4Reliability

If a secure compression fitting is used to prevent leakage, then connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveleak-proof connectionVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functions are merged into the compression fitting assembly: the barrier ring integrates with the compression member to provide both insertion control and secure attachment, while the insert combines structural support with leak prevention. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, achieving leak-proof connection without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 a secure, leak-proof connection across different fixture sizes, withstands typical water pressure without collapsing, and allows for easy disassembly and reassembly, enhancing the durability and versatility of the converter hose.

Implementation Method 1

the insert flange and the connector flange are compressed against the rim forming a seal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

an elastomeric connector comprising an approximately perpendicular flange at a distal end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11365838B1Connector assembly and methods of use

Publication Date: 2022.06.21 DRUG CAREERS INC DBA LANE INNOVATIONS

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.