Hose Connection Device with Snap Ring Axial Fixation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices for metal hoses are cumbersome to assemble, prone to errors, and can cause the hose to twist during connection, especially on construction sites, and often require a component with a sealing surface and external thread, limiting connection options.
Innovation Solution
A connection device featuring a screw-in part with a snap ring mechanism that allows for easy assembly and rotation, enabling various connection forms such as sockets, sleeves, or plugs, without relying on a component's external thread, using annular grooves and a snap ring for axial fixation without impeding rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a union nut or screw-on sleeve is used to connect the hose to a further component, then the connection is secure, but the assembly becomes cumbersome and the hose may rotate causing twisting
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into distinct functional segments: a screw-in part for insertion into the metal hose, and a separate connecting element for attachment to further components. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw-in part is pre-assembled into the metal hose before the connecting element is attached. This preliminary action ensures proper positioning and alignment, preventing hose rotation during the connection process and eliminating the need for cumbersome assembly operations on-site.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hose is cut to length on site and the connecting device is assembled then, then the hose can be customized, but the assembly process becomes error-prone and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is designed as separable segments that can be independently handled. The screw-in part can be pre-installed in the factory, while the connecting element with external thread allows for simple on-site attachment without complex assembly procedures, reducing errors while maintaining customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element with external thread is designed to self-align and self-secure when screwed into the further component, eliminating the need for precise alignment procedures or additional fastening operations by the installer, thereby reducing assembly errors on-site.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the connecting element is firmly fixed to the screw-in part, then axial movement is prevented, but rotation is impeded causing assembly difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the connecting element and screw-in part transitions from a static fixed state during assembly to a dynamically locked state during operation. During assembly, the components can rotate freely for alignment; once assembled, the connection prevents axial movement while maintaining rotational freedom through the designed engagement geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection design addresses different spatial dimensions separately: axial movement is constrained through the engagement geometry, while rotational movement is permitted. This dimensional differentiation allows the connection to be stable in the axial direction while remaining flexible in the rotational direction during assembly.
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
The solution provides a secure, rotatable fastening of the connecting element to the screw-in part, simplifying assembly, preventing hose twisting, and allowing for diverse connection types, including fluid-tight seals, while ensuring a reliable and error-free connection process.
Implementation Method 1
A round-wire snap ring is used, which is arranged in an annular groove of the screw-in part and/or of the connecting element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a hose, comprising at least a metal hose made of one or more helically wound profiles, and a connection device attached to one end of the metal hose. The connection device includes a screw-in part for insertion into and/or placement onto the metal hose, which screw-in part has an insertion area and a connection area, wherein the insertion area is provided with at least one rib which essentially describes a helical path and engages in the profiles or in spaces between the profiles of the metal hose to form a positive fit against axial movement of the screw-in part within the metal hose. The connection device also includes a connecting element which can be attached to the connection area of the screw-in part and serves to connect the hose to another component.The connecting element can be attached to or inserted into the screw-in part, forming an overlap area with the connection area of the screw-in part. The surfaces of the connecting element and the screw-in part opposite each other in the overlap area describe coaxial cylindrical or conical surfaces. In the overlap area, the connecting element has a first annular groove, while the screw-in part has a second annular groove opposite the first annular groove in the overlap area. A snap ring is arranged in an annular space formed by the first and second annular grooves.