Fluid Fitting Installation Tool for Tight-Clearance Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In areas of reduced clearance, such as in vehicle assembly where a coolant line spigot needs to be coupled to a quick connect fitting of a battery pack, existing methods make it difficult for operators to install fluid fittings securely and prevent fluid leaks.
Innovation Solution
A fluid fitting installation system with a first handle and a second movable handle, coupled via a biasing member, includes a grasping member that can be positioned about the fluid fitting to facilitate coupling between the spigot and the quick connect fitting, allowing for easy installation even in tight spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual installation methods are used for fluid fittings in tight spaces, then the operator can perform the installation, but the operator cannot reach the quick connect fitting securely and installation reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tool as an intermediary device between the operator and the fluid fitting. The tool includes a grasping member that directly engages with the fitting, allowing the operator to apply force and control the installation process without needing to reach into the tight space. This mediator overcomes the accessibility problem while ensuring reliable installation through direct mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct manual mechanical operation (operator hand reaching and manipulating the fitting) with a tool-based mechanical system. The tool uses a grasping member, movable handle, and biasing member to create a mechanical advantage system that can securely engage and manipulate the fitting in locations inaccessible to direct manual operation.
2Ease of operation
If the operator reaches into tight spaces to install fittings, then direct control is possible, but the operator cannot apply sufficient force and installation precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a movable handle that can transition between positions, allowing the tool to adapt to different installation stages. The biasing member provides dynamic force application, automatically adjusting the grasping force on the fitting. This dynamic system maintains precision throughout the installation process while allowing the operator to control the tool from an accessible position.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool serves as an intermediary that transmits and amplifies the operator's control inputs into precise mechanical actions on the fitting. The grasping member provides direct mechanical engagement with the fitting, ensuring precise force application and positioning without requiring the operator's hand to be in the tight space where precision is needed.
3Device complexity
If conventional tools are used in reduced clearance areas, then the tool structure remains simple, but the tool cannot access the fitting and operational capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool into distinct functional segments: a grasping member for engaging the fitting, a movable handle for operator control, and a biasing member for force application. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while keeping the overall tool structure relatively simple and manageable in tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable handle provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the tool to change its configuration during operation. The handle can move between positions to accommodate different installation scenarios while maintaining a compact form factor that can access tight spaces. This dynamic capability enhances accessibility without requiring a complex multi-tool system.
4Ease of operation
If the grasping member is positioned offset from the longitudinal axis, then ergonomic handling is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately positions the grasping member offset from the longitudinal axis of the tool, creating an asymmetric configuration. This asymmetry improves ergonomic handling by allowing the operator to apply force more naturally and provides better leverage. The offset positioning also allows the grasping member to engage the fitting more effectively while the tool remains relatively simple in overall structure.
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
Enables secure and efficient coupling of fluid fittings in areas with limited clearance, reducing the likelihood of leaks and improving assembly efficiency by providing ergonomic handling and tactile feedback.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid fitting installation system includes a biasing member disposed between the first handle and the second handle... The biasing member is configured to move the second handle from the second position to the first position
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid fitting installation system includes a first handle and a second handle movably coupled to the first handle. The second handle is movable between a first position and a second position. The fluid fitting installation system includes a grasping member coupled to the second handle. The grasping member is configured to be coupled to a first fluid fitting. A movement of the second handle from the first position to the second position is configured to couple the first fluid fitting to a second fluid fitting.