Hose Barb Clamping Assembly for Low-Volume Fluid Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for connecting hose barbs in fluid management systems require significant tubing length and volume, leading to inefficiencies and material waste, especially in applications where valuable medium is limited.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with a seal and locking mechanism that directly connects two hose barbs, eliminating the need for intermediate tubing and allowing for secure, fluid-tight alignment without the use of cable ties or clamps, featuring a preloaded locking mechanism and adaptable seals for various diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If hose barbs are connected using traditional methods with intermediate tubing and cable ties, then the connection is mechanically secure, but the system volume and tubing length increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and locking function into a single integrated clamping device. The clamping device includes a clamping body with a sealing element and a locking mechanism integrated into the same component, eliminating the need for separate tubing, cable ties, and clamps that were required in traditional connection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the intermediate tubing from the connection system by enabling direct connection between hose barbs. The clamping device allows hose barbs to be connected directly without requiring intermediate tubing, thereby reducing system volume while maintaining connection security.
2Volume of moving object
If hose barbs are directly connected without intermediate tubing, then system volume is minimized, but achieving proper alignment and secure connection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is pre-configured with the sealing element and locking mechanism in specific positions before use. The locking mechanism includes pre-positioned locking elements that automatically engage with the hose barbs, and the sealing element is pre-installed in the clamping body, ensuring proper alignment and secure connection without requiring complex assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically lock the hose barbs in place once inserted. The locking elements self-engage with the hose barbs, and the sealing element automatically positions itself to create a fluid-tight seal, eliminating the need for manual alignment or additional fastening operations.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the connection, then connection stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the clamping body as a unified structure. The locking elements are formed as part of the clamping device itself, and the sealing element is incorporated into the same component, creating a single integrated clamping device that provides both sealing and locking functions without requiring separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is made of elastomeric material that provides flexibility and conformability. This flexible sealing element can adapt to the shape of the hose barbs while maintaining a fluid-tight seal, and its elasticity allows it to be integrated into the rigid clamping structure without adding significant complexity.
4Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for sealing and locking, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and locking function into a single integrated clamping device. The clamping body includes both the sealing element and the locking mechanism as integral parts, reducing the number of separate components from multiple discrete parts (seal, clamp, locking mechanism) to a single unified component.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides sealing, locking, and alignment functions. The single clamping device structure incorporates elements that perform multiple functions: the clamping body provides structural support and alignment, the sealing element provides fluid-tight sealing, and the locking mechanism provides secure mechanical locking.
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
This solution minimizes system volume, simplifies assembly, and reduces material usage while ensuring a secure and compact fluidic connection, with options for reversible or irreversible locking mechanisms to enhance recyclability and stability.
Implementation Method 1
the seal coaxially aligns and fluid-tightly connects the free ends
Implementation Method 2
the locking mechanism can be transferred from a mounting condition to an assembled condition. In the mounting condition, the hose barbs can be inserted into the clamping device, whereas in the assembled condition, these hose barbs are locked in place
Implementation Method 3
the locking mechanism is preloaded into the assembled condition, such that a secure connection is ensured
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device for fluidically and mechanically connecting two hose barbs. The clamping device includes a seal and a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism can be transferred from a mounting condition to an assembled condition. In the mounting condition, the hose barbs can be inserted into the clamping device, while in the assembled condition, those hose barbs are locked in place in a position in which free ends of the hose barbs face each other and a seal coaxially aligns and fluid-tightly connects the free ends.