Locking Fluid Coupling Fitting for Vibration-Resistant Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional compression fittings in fluid connections are prone to inadvertent loosening due to vibration, requiring labor-intensive lock wires for security, especially in applications with multiple fittings.
Innovation Solution
A locking fitting assembly with a base and nipple fitting featuring engagement structures and resilient locking members that resist relative rotation, requiring a threshold torque to be exceeded for loosening, thereby securing the fitting against vibration-induced loosening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lock wires are used to secure the fitting, then the fitting is secured against loosening, but the installation becomes time consuming and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structure is merged with the base and nipple fitting components themselves, integrating the locking function into the fitting assembly rather than using separate lock wires. This integration eliminates the need for additional locking components and reduces installation steps while maintaining security against loosening.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting assembly provides its own locking capability through the integrated locking structure with resilient members that engage with the housing. The system is self-sufficient and does not require external lock wires or additional securing operations, enabling self-installation without specialized locking procedures.
2Ease of operation
If conventional compression fittings are used, then the installation is simple, but the fittings are prone to inadvertent loosening due to vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structure with resilient members is designed to preemptively counteract the loosening force generated by vibration before it can occur. The resilient members engage with the housing to create a preliminary locking action that prevents vibration-induced loosening from taking effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient members provide dynamic locking capability that adapts to vibration conditions. The resilience allows the locking structure to maintain engagement under vibrational stress while still permitting straightforward installation, creating a dynamic balance between ease of installation and resistance to loosening.
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 locking fitting assembly effectively prevents unintended loosening due to vibration, reducing installation time and labor by securely engaging with the housing without the need for lock wires, while allowing for adjustable torque resistance.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient members can be arranged and configured in various manners to facilitate tuning a threshold torque that must be exceeded before the nipple fitting can be rotated relative to the housing
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A locking fitting assembly that can be removably installed in a tapped hole on a housing and resists unintended loosening of the fitting assembly. The fitting assembly maybe installed at a mounting location for receiving the fitting assembly, and includes a base with engagement structure configured to engage corresponding structure adjacent the mounting location to secure the base against rotation. The fitting assembly further includes a nipple fitting received on the base and having first and second oppositely disposed coupling features. The first coupling feature is configured to mate with a complementary coupling feature of the housing, such as the tapped hole, whereby the nipple fitting can be sealingly secured to the housing. Locking structure disposed between the base and the nipple fitting is configured to resist relative rotation between the base and the nipple fitting.