Multi-tube Coupling Central Driving Cam Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-tube couplings for pressurized fluid and compressed air are bulky, expensive, and complex, requiring time-consuming handling and lacking flexibility for connecting separate parts, especially in hydraulic and pneumatic machine applications.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tube coupling design featuring a central driving device with a cam sleeve and spiral grooves allows for compact, cost-effective construction and easy connection/disconnection, incorporating electrical contacts for automatic signal transmission and using a minimal number of components, enabling flexible and rapid hose replacement without additional electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional multi-tube coupling designs are used, then the coupling can transmit pressurized fluid and electrical signals, but the coupling becomes bulky and requires time-consuming handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the driving device for mechanical coupling with the electrical contact means into a single integrated central structure. The driving device includes a cam sleeve with cam grooves that directly engage with coupling parts, while electrical contacts are positioned within the same central assembly, eliminating the need for separate lateral electrical connection mechanisms and reducing overall coupling volume
Solution Approach 2:
The central driving device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the mechanical driving action for coupling part engagement through the cam mechanism, houses the electrical contact means for signal transmission, and acts as the central structural element around which all other coupling components are arranged. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional multi-tube coupling designs are used, then the coupling can connect hydraulic systems, but the construction becomes complicated and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the driving device and electrical contact means into a single integrated assembly that can be manufactured as one unit or pre-assembled module. This reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall construction and reducing manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The central driving device is designed to perform multiple functions (mechanical driving, electrical contact housing, structural support) which reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing processes while maintaining all necessary coupling functions
3Length of stationary object
If electrical contact means are positioned laterally in the multi-tube coupling, then electrical connections can be made, but the lateral extension of the coupling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contact means are merged with the central driving device, positioning them within the central axial space rather than laterally. This allows electrical connections to be made in line with the driving device's axial movement, maintaining a compact lateral profile while preserving adaptability for connecting separate hoses and implements
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 solution provides a compact, cost-effective multi-tube coupling that minimizes torsional distortion, allows for easy handling, and facilitates flexible and rapid connection of hydraulic implements, while ensuring dust protection and efficient electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
the projecting device (25) of the central spigot (21) is so arranged as to engage in grooves (29) in a cam sleeve (15) that is capable of rotating in the array of couplings (9), so that, on rotation of the cam sleeve (15), the groove (29) interacts with the projecting device (25) to permit the displacement of the array of couplings (9) in a direction to and from one another
Data Source
Figure 1a~2
Figure 3a~4
Figure 5~9
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multi-tube coupling (1) consisting of at least two parallel coupling devices (3), each comprising matching first and second parts (5, 7) of the coupling for the transfer of fluid; the multi-tube coupling (1) consists of a base part (17) comprising the two first parts (5) of the coupling and a driving device (14) arranged for the displacement of the other parts (7) of the coupling of an array (9) of couplings in the direction of the base part (17). The driving device (14) consists of a central spigot (21), essentially centrally located between the coupling devices (3) in, the base part, and non-rotatably attached to the base part (17), which central spigot comprises a first electrical contact means (23); and a cam sleeve device (15) capable of rotating in the array (9) of couplings consisting of a screw-shaped cam surface (27) intended for engagement with devices (25) projecting from the central spigot (21).