Flexible Connector for Multi-Tube Fluid Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid tube assemblies for vehicle engine parts require separate banjo fittings for each tube, leading to complex and costly manufacturing, time-consuming mounting, and potential sealing failures due to inaccurate alignment.
Innovation Solution
A flexible connector member that supports and aligns multiple fluid tubes simultaneously, allowing for self-alignment and adjustment during mounting, reducing the need for precise positioning and minimizing the number of components, while providing a durable and cost-effective solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate banjo fittings are used for each tube, then secure connections are achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate banjo fittings into a single integrated connector assembly that simultaneously connects multiple tubes to the engine part. This single assembly includes multiple connection points and sealing elements integrated into one unit, reducing the total number of components while maintaining secure connections for each tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple connection functions simultaneously. It can connect multiple tubes of different sizes and types to the engine part in a single operation, making it a universal solution that replaces multiple specialized fittings.
2Reliability
If separate banjo fittings are used for each tube, then secure connections are achieved, but mounting time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is pre-assembled with all necessary sealing elements, threads, and connection points configured in the correct positions before installation. This preliminary preparation allows the entire multi-tube connection system to be installed in a single operation rather than requiring sequential assembly of multiple separate fittings.
3Productivity
If tubes are fixedated in exact positions, then simultaneous insertion is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates flexible or adjustable elements that allow for dynamic positioning adjustments during installation. This flexibility compensates for variations in tube positions and opening locations, enabling simultaneous insertion without requiring extremely precise pre-positioning of all components.
4Productivity
If tubes are fixedated in exact positions, then simultaneous insertion is achieved, but sealing reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly uses sealing elements with adjustable parameters such as material hardness, elasticity, and cross-sectional area that can adapt to position variations. These sealing parameters are designed to compensate for misalignment, maintaining effective sealing even when tubes are not positioned with extreme precision.
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 flexible connector member enables reliable and efficient simultaneous insertion and fixation of multiple fluid tubes, improving sealing and operational life by allowing for flexible alignment and reduced sensitivity to temperature variations and vibrations, thus simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing the risk of sealing failures.
Implementation Method 1
the adjustment of the distance between the end portions of the tubes is possible by using the elasticity of the connector
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fluid tube assembly for simultaneous insertion of at least two fluid transporting tubes into openings in a vehicle engine part, and to a method for manufacturing the same. The assembly comprises a first (3) and a second tube (4) for transporting fluid with openings facing in a first direction, and a flexible connector member (11) comprising a support surface (12), wherein the flexible connector member is attached to a first attachment portion of the first tube and to a second attachment portion of the second tube, such that connector member supports the end portions of the first and second tubes in a spaced and essentially parallel relationship. The flexible connector member further comprises a first (15) and second (16) support portion which extends, at least partly in the first direction, from the respective first and second attachment portions to the support surface.