Pipe Fitting Indicator Assembly for Set Screw Installation Checks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings require time-consuming and error-prone quality assurance reviews to ensure that set screws are properly tightened, which can lead to unreliable seals and potential pipe separation.
Innovation Solution
A pipe fitting with a housing, fastener, and positive installation indicators that provide a visual indication of proper installation, allowing for easy verification that the fastener has been sufficiently tightened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If quality assurance reviews are conducted by measuring set screw depth or torque, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener assembly performs its own verification function through the indicator mechanism. As the fastener is tightened, the indicator automatically displays whether the fastener has been properly secured, eliminating the need for separate measurement operations by quality assurance personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems (torque wrenches, depth gauges) with a simple visual indicator mechanism that provides immediate feedback on fastener tightening status through color-coded or position-based indicators.
2Measurement precision
If quality assurance reviews are conducted using measurement tools, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The verification function is extracted from the complex measurement tools and integrated directly into the fastener assembly itself. The indicator mechanism is a simple component built into the fastener, separating the verification function from external measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener assembly provides its own verification capability through the integrated indicator, eliminating the need for external measurement tools and complex quality assurance equipment.
3Reliability
If set screws are tightened to ensure reliable seals, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator mechanism provides immediate visual confirmation of proper tightening during installation, allowing installers to verify reliable connection without time-consuming measurement steps or multiple verification passes.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator provides real-time visual feedback on fastener tightening status, allowing installers to immediately know when the proper torque or depth has been achieved, ensuring reliable seals while minimizing installation time through instant verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting includes a fitting body defining a hole; and an indicator assembly comprising a fastener extending through the hole, a first indicator mounted on the fastener, and a second indicator mounted on the fastener, the fastener defining a fastener axis; wherein the second indicator is axially in between the first indicator and the fitting body upon the fastener being oriented in a first position, and wherein the second indicator is radially inwardly or radially outwardly of the first indicator upon the fastener being oriented in a second position.