Hose Connector Plug Assembly for Automated Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose-pipe connectors are difficult to handle during assembly and are not well-suited for automatic assembly lines due to their complex structural parts and lack of efficient sealing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a tubular structure with annular projections for hose engagement, a through-bore for pipe nipples, and a plug with a shaft and disc for assembly and sealing, which also holds the connector parts together until final assembly, facilitating easier handling and pressure testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional multi-part connector structure is used, then sealing function is achieved, but assembly complexity increases and handling difficulty arises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connector parts (front tubular member, rear tubular member, and plug) into a single integrated connector assembly. The plug is received within the tubular members to form a unified structure that maintains sealing functionality while eliminating the need for separate assembly of multiple components, thus reducing assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug serves multiple functions: it seals the interior of the connector against dirt, facilitates pressure testing by being removable, and maintains the structural integrity of the connector assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional connector design is used, then connection function is achieved, but ease of operation during assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional parts (front tubular member with outer surface for hose engagement, rear tubular member, and plug) that are easily identifiable and can be assembled in a straightforward sequence, improving ease of operation during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug acts as an intermediary component that simplifies the assembly process by providing a clear insertion path through the through-bore and serving as a temporary seal that can be easily removed for pressure testing, making the overall assembly process more user-friendly.
3Reliability
If complex structural parts are used, then sealing mechanism function is achieved, but suitability for automatic assembly line decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design uses standardized parameters and dimensions that are optimized for automated handling and assembly. The simple geometric forms and clear engagement features allow for easy programming of robotic assembly systems, improving suitability for automatic assembly lines while maintaining effective sealing.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector has an outer surface for engagement by a hose, an inner through-bore (13) for receiving a pipe nipple to be connected to the hose, and a sealing O-ring (12) for sealing the hose to the pipe nipple. Up to the final assembly of the connector, a plug (15) is placed in the through-bore (13) to hold the parts of the connector together and protect its interior against the entry of dirt. The plug (15) has a shaft (16) to be inserted into the through-bore (13) and an end disc (17) for closing an end of the through-bore (13). A plurality of connectors may be linked together to form a belt-type arrangement for handling in an automatic assembly line.