Elastic Hose Thread Protector for Debris Exclusion and Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hoses with exposed threaded ends are prone to damage, debris and animal entry, and lack efficient fluid diffusion and handling solutions, leading to leakage, obstruction, and wear and tear during use.
Innovation Solution
A solid fitting with internal threads and an elastic body that encloses the hose end, featuring a slit for access, perforations for fluid diffusion, and a T-handle design for easy pulling, providing protection, unobstructed flow, and reduced wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the threaded end of the hose is left exposed for connection and disconnection operations, then ease of operation is improved, but the threads become vulnerable to damage from dragging across ground and contact with debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible elastic cover that can be pulled back during connection/disconnection operations and then returns to its closed protective position. This flexible shell protects the threads from ground contact and debris while allowing easy access when needed, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and thread protection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the hose end is enclosed to protect threads, then thread protection is improved, but access to threads for connection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic cover is designed to be dynamically movable - it can be pulled back along the hose to expose the threads during connection operations, then automatically returns to its closed protective position when released. This dynamic behavior allows the system to switch between protection mode and access mode, resolving the contradiction between thread protection and operational accessibility.
3Quantity of substance
If the hose end is permanently open for fluid flow, then fluid flow is improved, but debris and insects can enter the hose when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic cover provides a dynamic seal that remains closed during storage to prevent debris and insect entry, but can be easily pulled back during use to allow full fluid flow. After use, it automatically returns to the closed position, eliminating the need for permanent openings while maintaining both protection and flow capabilities.
4Ease of operation
If the hose is pulled to the area of need without protection, then ease of handling is improved, but the hose suffers from bending and kinking wear
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic cover acts as a flexible protective shell that reinforces the hose end during pulling operations. It distributes mechanical stresses and prevents sharp bending and kinking at the vulnerable hose end, while remaining flexible enough not to interfere with normal hose handling and movement to the work area.
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 effectively protects the hose threads from damage, prevents debris entry, allows controlled fluid flow, and reduces wear and tear by maintaining closure until needed, while guiding proper hose handling.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic body that encloses the end of a fitting or a threaded end of a hose
Implementation Method 2
Due to the elastic nature of the body when access to the threads is not needed and hand pressure is released, the elastic body returns to its closed position
Implementation Method 3
Diffusion of water or other fluids is achieved through perforations in the elastic body
Data Source
AI summary
Hose end protector intended to be carried on the end of a hose so as to surround and completely enclose the threaded coupling for its protection. The protector includes an elastic body having been secured by a retaining ring on a solid fitting adapted to engage with the hose. The fully enclosed protector protects the threaded coupling from damage, prevents debris and small objects from entering hose, and provides a method of diffusing flow, and is used as a means of handling hose.