Sensor-Guided Hose Clamp Tool for Installation Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The tedious and monotonous nature of installing hose clamps, especially in tight spaces, often leads to improper securing, resulting in potential leaks when fluids are introduced, as it is difficult to determine if self-tensioned hose clamps are properly secured due to rapid retraction and delayed fluid introduction.
Innovation Solution
A securing tool equipped with sensors and prying members that engage with self-tensioned hose clamps to detect proper installation through continuity and sound/vibration signals, providing feedback on successful securing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If self-tensioned hose clamps are used to make installation easier and more efficient, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates because it is difficult to determine whether the clamp has been properly secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by providing real-time visual indicators (colored windows showing colored indicators) that immediately inform the worker whether the hose clamp has been properly installed. The system monitors installation quality and feeds this information back to the operator through the color-coded display, allowing immediate correction if installation is improper.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color changes as a visual signaling mechanism to indicate installation status. Different colored indicators (e.g., green for proper installation, red for improper installation) are displayed through windows on the tool, providing intuitive visual feedback to the worker about the quality of clamp installation without requiring complex measurement or inspection.
2Ease of operation
If self-tensioned hose clamps retract rapidly to secure hoses, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates because proper securing cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the verification function during the installation process itself, rather than requiring a separate inspection step. The sensor detects clamp position and tension status in real-time during retraction, and the visual indicator system provides immediate feedback before the worker completes the installation, allowing verification to occur as part of the installation action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary visual indicator system that mediates between the rapid mechanical retraction of the clamp and the worker's need to verify proper installation. The colored indicators serve as an intermediary signal that translates the complex mechanical state of the clamp into simple, interpretable visual information, allowing verification without direct observation of the rapid retraction motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If workers install hose clamps in tight spaces, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to careless installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by making the verification system self-evident through visual indicators that automatically display installation quality. The system monitors its own state and provides self-verification through the color-coded indicators, eliminating the need for separate inspection procedures that would be difficult to perform in tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical inspection methods with an automated sensor-based detection system. Instead of requiring the worker to manually verify clamp installation (which is difficult in tight spaces), electronic sensors detect clamp position and tension, and translate this information into visual indicators, substituting mechanical verification with an automated sensing and display system.
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
Ensures proper installation of hose clamps by analyzing sensor signals to confirm secure engagement, reducing the likelihood of leaks and improving efficiency in securing hose clamps, even in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a second signal from a second sensor, the second signal being indicative of a sensed occurrence of a second event
Implementation Method 2
sensed occurrence of a second event
Implementation Method 3
a first signal from a first sensor, the first signal being indicative of a sensed occurrence of a first event
Data Source
AI summary
A securing tool and methods for its use are described herein. In various embodiments, the securing tool may include a handle and one or more prying members positioned at a first end of the securing tool opposite the handle. The prying member(s) may be shaped to engage a release of a self-tensioned hose clamp to cause the handle to be manipulable to spring the self-tensioned hose clamp. The securing tool may include first and second sensors configured to provide first and second signals, respectively, that are indicative of sensed occurrence of first and second events after the handle is manipulated to spring the self-tensioned hose clamp. In various embodiments, if the first and second signals satisfy a criterion, the hose clamp may be deemed to have been properly installed onto a hose or other conduit.