Modular Hose Coupling for Multi-System Evacuation Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing evacuation hoses for refrigeration systems are limited in their versatility due to permanently attached couplings that are dimensioned for specific refrigeration system attachment points, restricting their use across different systems with varying dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A modular coupling system comprising a first connector, a second connector, and a seal that allows for removability and interchangeability, enabling the same evacuation hose to be used with different refrigeration systems by swapping the connectors and seals to match varying system dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the coupling is permanently attached to the evacuation hose, then the connection reliability is improved, but the adaptability to different refrigeration systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into two separate connectors: a first connector that attaches to the refrigeration system and a second connector that attaches to the evacuation hose. These connectors can be permanently attached to each other while allowing the assembly to be detached and reattached to different systems, thus maintaining connection reliability while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second connector is designed with a universal interface that can connect to various types of evacuation hoses, while the first connector can be customized for different refrigeration system attachment points. This multi-functionality allows the same coupling assembly to serve multiple systems with different dimensions.
2Manufacturing precision
If the coupling is dimensioned for a specific refrigeration system, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the versatility across different systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is segmented into two connectors with distinct functions: the first connector is precision-dimensioned for a specific refrigeration system attachment point, while the second connector provides a standardized interface for evacuation hoses. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific purpose while maintaining overall versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the coupling have different dimensional characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The first connector has precise dimensions matched to a specific system, while the second connector has standardized dimensions for universal hose compatibility. This local optimization of dimensions resolves the contradiction between precision and versatility.
3Loss of substance
If a single hose is used for multiple refrigeration systems, then the loss of substance (number of hoses required) is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to connector swapping
Solution Approach 1:
The first connector and second connector are permanently attached to form a unified coupling assembly. This merging eliminates the need to handle multiple separate components during connector swapping, reducing the operational complexity despite enabling use with multiple systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The first connector is designed to be easily detachable from the second connector, allowing it to be extracted and replaced without affecting the second connector or the evacuation hose. This simplifies the swapping procedure by isolating only the necessary component for replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for connecting an evacuation hose to a system for evacuation of the system. The apparatus includes a first connector, a second connector, and a seal. The first connector includes a first face defining a longitudinally extending indentation and the second connector includes a second face with a protrusion that is positionable within the indentation. The seal is positionable on the protrusion to circumscribe the protrusion and to be sealing engagement with the first connector and the second connector when the protrusion is at a preferred position in the indentation.