Multi-Axis Swivel Connector for High-Pressure Fastener Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swivel connectors for fluid-operated tools face challenges in managing long hoses under high pressure, which tangle and hinder tool maneuverability due to stiff hoses and large diameters, making it difficult to position and operate tools weighing over 100 lbs.
Innovation Solution
A swivel connector apparatus with multiple rotatable fluid-transmitting elements connected in a specific configuration, allowing 360° rotation about certain axes, enabling freedom of movement and easy untangling of hoses without increasing tool dimensions, and positioning the connectors to be out of sight during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If long fluid hoses are used to connect heavy tools to fluid power sources, then the tools can reach distant fasteners, but the hoses tangle and stiffen under high pressure, making tool maneuvering difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid transmission system is divided into multiple independent rotatable elements (first, second, and third fluid-transmitting elements), each capable of rotating about its own axis. This segmentation allows each element to independently manage hose orientation, preventing tangling while maintaining long hose lengths for reaching distant fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple rotatable elements that can dynamically adjust their orientation during tool operation. The first element rotates 360° about the first axis, the second element rotates 360° about the second axis, and the third element rotates about the third axis, allowing the hose assembly to adapt its configuration in real-time to prevent tangling and maintain maneuverability under high pressure conditions.
2Strength
If the tool is made heavier with more robust components to handle high pressure, then it can withstand 10,000-30,000 psi, but it becomes difficult to position and maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The heavy tool is decoupled from the fluid transmission system through multiple rotatable elements. This segmentation allows the tool itself to remain relatively lightweight while the distributed rotational mechanisms handle the complexity of hose management, making the overall system easier to position and maneuver while maintaining pressure resistance.
3Reliability
If standard swivel connectors are used, then hose kinking is prevented, but the connectors increase tool dimensions and interfere with fastener tightening operations
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid-transmitting elements are positioned in three-dimensional space around the tool, with rotation axes oriented in different directions (first axis, second axis perpendicular to first, third axis perpendicular to second). This spatial arrangement allows the connectors to be distributed away from the tool's primary working area, preventing interference with fastener tightening operations while maintaining kink-free hose connections.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for supplying a fluid to a device for tightening or loosening fasteners including a first fluid-transmitting element (130) having a first axis connectable with a housing of the device; a second fluid-transmitting element (140) rotatably connectable with the first element (130) about a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis; a third fluid-transmitting element (150) rotatably connectable with the second element (140) about a third axis substantially perpendicular to the second axis and connectable with a fluid-transmitting line; and first and second fluid conduits that transfer fluid to and from the device and the fluid-transmitting line through the first, second and third elements. The first element is rotatable 360° about the first axis; the second element is rotatable 360° about the second axis; and the third element is rotatable less than 360° about the third axis.