Hose Connector Clamp Mechanism for Dripless Quick Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose connector devices often require complex cam mechanisms and lack a simple, secure method for connecting two standard hoses without leaks, especially when handling liquids or gases.
Innovation Solution
A hose connector device featuring a single cam system with threaded attachments and a gasket for secure connection, utilizing a male and female clamp bracket mechanism with locking pins and an O-ring for a tight seal, allowing easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single cam system is used instead of two cams, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but connection security and leak prevention may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate cam mechanisms into a single integrated cam system. The single cam has asymmetric lobes that interact with both the male and female clamp brackets simultaneously, reducing the number of moving parts while maintaining the dual-clamp securing function. This merging reduces device complexity and ease of operation without compromising connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The single cam is segmented into multiple functional lobes or engagement points that independently interact with different components (male clamp bracket, female clamp bracket, locking pins). This segmentation allows one cam to perform multiple securing functions, maintaining reliability while reducing overall mechanism complexity.
2Reliability
If threaded attachments with gaskets and O-rings are used, then leak prevention is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded connectors serve multiple functions: they provide the threading interface for hose attachment, incorporate sealing surfaces for the gasket, and integrate the cam mounting structure. The gasket and O-ring are designed to work together in a unified sealing system, reducing the number of separate sealing components needed and simplifying manufacturing.
3Productivity
If a press fit connection secured by cam is used, then connection speed is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static threaded-only connection to a dynamic system where the cam mechanism provides progressive clamping force. The cam's rotational motion converts to linear clamping force on the clamp brackets, which progressively compresses the protrusion portion into the receiving cavity. This dynamic action compensates for minor dimensional variations, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining fast connection speed.
Data Source
AI summary
A hose connector apparatus for quick and easy dripless hose connection includes a first connector having a first inner end, a first outer end, and a first sidewall. The first outer end attaches to a first hose. The first inner end has a receiving cavity. A male clamp bracket is pivotably coupled to the first sidewall. A female clamp bracket is pivotably coupled to the male clamp bracket and has a female bracket distal end. A second connector has a second inner end, a second outer end, and a second sidewall. The second inner end has a protrusion portion slidably engageable within the receiving cavity of the first connector. The second outer end attaches to a second hose. A pair of locking pins is coupled to the second sidewall to selectively engage the female bracket distal end of the female clamp bracket.