Modular Hose Connection Kit for Fuel Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of hose connections in fuel dispensing units is complex and time-consuming due to numerous components, and existing solutions do not allow for the blending of fuels with varying octane ratings or efficient vapour recovery.
Innovation Solution
A kit of parts comprising hose connection components with varying inlet and outlet configurations, including vapour recovery ports, which can be combined to simplify assembly and enable fuel blending, reducing the overall number of components and facilitating vapour recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hose connections with multiple separate components are used, then reliable fuel transport is achieved, but assembly becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate hose connection components (pipe, intermediate member, locking device, sealing elements) into a single integrated hose connection component. This merging reduces the number of parts from several separate components to one unified component that performs all functions: fluid transport, sealing, locking, and structural support. The integration maintains reliability while dramatically simplifying assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated hose connection component is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as a structural pipe element, provides sealing through integrated sealing surfaces and O-rings, enables locking through built-in locking mechanisms, and facilitates assembly through standardized connection interfaces. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate hose connections are used for different fuel types, then fuel blending capability is achieved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hose connection system is segmented into modular standardized components that can be configured in different arrangements. The integrated hose connection component includes standardized ports and connection interfaces that allow flexible configuration for different fuel types and blending requirements. This segmentation enables adaptability without requiring completely separate systems for each fuel type.
3Reliability
If traditional assembly procedures are used, then proper sealing and locking are achieved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated hose connection component comes pre-assembled with all sealing elements (O-rings, sealing surfaces), locking mechanisms, and structural elements already in their correct positions and configurations. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for mechanics to perform multiple separate assembly steps including installing seals, adjusting locking mechanisms, and aligning multiple components. The component is ready for immediate installation, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining proper sealing and locking functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Kits of parts for assembling a hose connection, fuel dispensing units having such a hose connection, and methods for assembling such a hose connection are provided. In one embodiment, a kit of parts is provided that includes a plurality of hose connection parts selectable from, first hose connection parts including one fluid inlet and one fluid outlet, second hose connection parts including two fluid inlets and one fluid outlet, and third hose connection parts including three fluid inlets and one fluid outlet, which kit of parts is suitable for assembly of a hose connection having at least a first and second fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, according to any one of three configurations.