Hydraulic Line Connector Threading for Compact Multi-Connector Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-connector devices for hydraulic lines in vehicles have increased dimensions and are difficult to mount and remove due to fastening elements protruding from the coupling side, which are obstructed by hydraulic and electrical lines, limiting accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A connector design with threads on the tubular body and movable spheres, coupled with a tool that transmits torque to unscrew or screw the connector, allowing mounting and removal without altering the coupling side's flat surface, and a tool with a collar and axial cavity for improved mechanical coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fastening elements are used to secure connectors in the multi-connector device, then the connectors are firmly fixed, but the overall dimensions increase and accessibility is reduced due to protruding elements and hydraulic/electrical lines
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the fastening elements from the coupling side surface, extracting the protruding components that cause dimensional increase and accessibility issues. The fastening function is achieved through threads formed directly on the connector body and corresponding threaded seats in the multi-connector device, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements that would protrude from the device.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having fastening elements protrude outward from the coupling side, the invention inverts the approach by integrating the fastening mechanism within the connector body itself through internal threading. The connector is secured by screwing it into a threaded seat from the opposite side, reversing the conventional approach of external fastening elements.
2Reliability
If fastening elements protrude from the coupling side to secure connectors, then connectors are firmly fixed, but accessibility is limited due to obstruction by hydraulic and electrical lines
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening elements from the coupling side surface, removing the obstruction caused by protruding components and hydraulic/electrical lines. This allows operators to access and operate connectors on the coupling side without interference, while the fastening function is achieved through the threaded connection from the opposite side.
3Reliability
If connectors are inserted from the side opposite the coupling side and blocked with fastening elements, then connectors are securely fixed, but mounting and removal become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates self-contained threading features that allow it to be securely fixed and easily removed through a simple screwing motion into the threaded seat. The connector essentially fastens itself through the threaded engagement, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements and complex mounting procedures. The tool with movable spheres assists this self-service mechanism by transmitting torque during the screwing operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A Connector comprising at least one tubular body provided with at least one mouth suitable to be coupled with a complementary connector, wherein the tubular body is also provided with a series of radial openings which partially house a plurality of spheres arranged along a circumference of the tubular body, wherein the spheres cooperate with connection means to move in a radial direction of the tubular body between an extended position, in which they protrude towards the outside of the tubular body, and a retracted position, in which they protrude towards the inside of the tubular body, wherein a thread is formed around the tubular body or around an element integral with the tubular body, wherein the thread is open from the side opposite the mouth of the connector, so that the connector can be screwed into a corresponding threaded seat in a direction facing the side opposite the mouth. The present description also relates to a multi-connector device for this connector and a tool which serves to mount and/or remove the connector in this multi-connector device.