Fluid Connector Assembly With Bridging Sleeve for Tight Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector assemblies struggle to establish secure, fluid-tight connections in constrained spaces, particularly when multiple ports on a valve need to be connected at different angles, as the push-fit method is not feasible in such configurations.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a first and second connector part with a movable extension sleeve that bridges the interface between them, allowing for alignment and secure connection without requiring one part to be pushed into the other, and utilizing sealing means and a clamp for fluid-tight sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If push-fit connection method is used, then secure and fluid-tight connection is achieved, but it cannot be applied in constrained spaces or when multiple ports need to be connected at different angles
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a first connector part, a second connector part, and a movable extension part. This segmentation allows the extension part to be independently positioned and adjusted, enabling connection in constrained spaces where traditional push-fit methods fail, while maintaining the security and fluid-tightness of the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable extension part acts as an intermediary element between the first and second connector parts. It bridges the gap when direct push-fit connection is not feasible due to spatial constraints or angular misalignment, allowing the connection to be established and then secured with a clamp, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
2Strength
If one connector part is pushed into the other, then secure connection is achieved, but it requires sufficient space and alignment that is not available in constrained areas
Solution Approach 1:
The extension part is designed to be movable relative to the first connector part, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to bridge the interface area between connector parts. This dynamic capability enables the connection to be established in constrained spaces without requiring the rigid alignment and insertion space needed for traditional push-fit methods, while still achieving secure connection when the clamp is applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension part can move in the axial direction to extend across the interface area, adding a dimensional degree of freedom to the connection process. This allows the connector assembly to accommodate angular separations and spatial constraints by adjusting the extension part's position along the axial dimension, reducing the space requirements for establishing a secure connection.
3Reliability
If clamp is secured around overlapping area, then secure connection is achieved, but it requires the connector parts to be in push-fit configuration which is not possible in all configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly design allows the same clamp-based securing mechanism to be used across multiple configurations and orientations. The movable extension part enables the clamp to be effectively positioned around the connector parts regardless of their angular separation or spatial constraints, making the connection method universal and eliminating the need for different connection configurations for different applications.
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector assembly comprising: a first connector part (100) and a second connector part (200), each connector part defining a fluid flow passage therethrough configured to together define a fluid flow conduit when the first and second parts are connected together, the connector assembly further comprising an extension part (500) mounted around one of the first and the second connector parts, the extension part (500) arranged to move relative to the connector part around which it is mounted to extend across an interface area between the first connector part and the second connector part and to bridge the first and second connector parts when the first and second connector parts are brought to meet each other to define the fluid conduit.