Lateral Insertion Connector for Hydraulic Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for connecting hydraulic components in beverage preparation machines are complex and hazardous for sealing, particularly in terms of assembly and compliance with food and hygiene standards, and require threading, which is inefficient and not suitable for recycling.
Innovation Solution
A connector system allowing lateral insertion of components, featuring a body with a longitudinal opening and elastically deformable design, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, and incorporating clipping lugs and a support portion for secure connection without threading, facilitating recycling and eco-design principles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threading is used for connecting hydraulic components, then connection strength is improved, but assembly complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional elements: a body with longitudinal opening, clipping lugs for attachment, and a support portion for positioning. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of threading the connector around the pipe in the conventional longitudinal direction, the invention inverts the approach by using lateral insertion through a longitudinal opening. The clipping lugs engage with the pipe externally rather than threading through it, fundamentally changing the connection mechanism from internal threading to external clamping.
2Reliability
If threading is used for connecting hydraulic components, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The clipping lugs are pre-configured in the connector body at predetermined positions, ready to engage with the pipe. The support portion is also pre-formed to provide positioning during assembly. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex threading operations during assembly, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining reliable connection through the pre-designed clamping mechanism.
3Reliability
If complex assembly systems are used for connecting hydraulic components, then sealing reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture and assembly decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated connector body: the longitudinal opening for pipe insertion, the clipping lugs for mechanical attachment, and the support portion for positioning and sealing. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate sealing elements and complex assembly systems, making both manufacture and assembly simpler while maintaining sealing reliability through the integrated design.
4Strength
If threaded connections are used, then connection strength is improved, but ease of repair and recycling decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed to be dynamically reversible - the clipping lugs can be easily released and re-engaged, allowing for quick disassembly and reassembly. This dynamic design enables maintenance professionals to rapidly disconnect and reconnect components during repairs or recycling operations, significantly improving ease of repair compared to fixed threaded connections.
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 connector system simplifies the connection process, enhances reliability, and supports efficient recycling by allowing easy assembly and disassembly, ensuring secure sealing and compliance with hygiene standards while reducing the complexity of assembly steps.
Implementation Method 1
the body is made of a single elastically deformable piece to increase the width of the longitudinal opening
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a connector for connecting two hydraulic members (3, 4) of a drink-preparation machine, including first assembly means that can co-operate with a first hydraulic member (3) and second assembly means that can co-operate with the second hydraulic member (4). The invention is characterised in that it includes a body (1) provided with a longitudinal opening (2) enabling same to be inserted sideways into, and mounted on at least one of the first and second hydraulic members (3, 4). The invention also relates to a connection system including one such connector and to a method for implementing same.