Integrated Float Assembly for Conduit Bend Radius Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional floats attached to flexible hoses on harvesters and dredgers are spaced apart, allowing the hoses to bend excessively, leading to increased resistance, trapped air, pump priming difficulties, and potential damage from objects, without effectively limiting the bend radius.
Innovation Solution
A float system comprising first and second float elements that attach to a conduit, with adjustable fasteners to restrict bending angle and prevent excessive curvature, providing buoyancy and protection against damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If floats are spaced apart from each other, then the hose can be kept near the surface of the water, but the hose can bend excessively beyond a predetermined bend radius
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple float elements into a single integrated float assembly that provides both surface support and bend radius control. The first and second float elements are positioned at specific locations along the conduit to work together as a unified structure, eliminating the problems of spaced-apart floats while maintaining surface proximity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rigid or semi-rigid intermediary structure between the float elements and the conduit, such as a rod or bar connecting the floats. This intermediary component transmits the buoyant force to the conduit while simultaneously limiting the bend radius, acting as a mediator that provides both support and constraint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hose bends beyond a certain bend radius, then the hose can accommodate tight spaces, but the resistance to flow of material increases and places burden on the pump
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the float system by adjusting the spacing, size, and positioning of float elements to establish a minimum bend radius. This parameter control ensures the conduit maintains sufficient curvature to allow material flow while preventing excessive bending that would increase resistance and reduce productivity.
3Ease of operation
If the hose is exposed between floats, then the hose has flexibility, but the hose becomes vulnerable to damage from rocks and objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a continuous protective covering or sheath that extends along the conduit between float elements. This flexible protective layer shields the conduit from mechanical damage by rocks and objects while preserving the necessary flexibility for operation, effectively combining protection with operational ease.
4Reliability
If large-sized floats are used, then the hose is kept near the surface effectively, but the floats are spaced apart allowing excessive bending
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple float functions into a single integrated assembly that provides both adequate surface support and continuous conduit coverage. By combining the buoyant elements and protective functions into one unified structure, the system achieves effective surface support without the complexity of multiple spaced-apart float arrangements.
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 float system effectively limits hose bending, maintains efficient flow, protects against damage, and ensures smooth operation by preventing excessive bends, thus enhancing the durability and efficiency of conduits.
Implementation Method 1
The first interior space is filled with air and the second interior space is filled with air... The first float element is configured to define a first interior space, and the second float element is configured to define a second interior space
Data Source
AI summary
A float system includes a first float element and a second float element. The first float element is attachable to the conduit, and the second float element is attachable to the conduit adjacent the first float element. The first float element and the second float element are capable of restricting a bending angle of the conduit.