Pump Connection Cuff for Twist-Free, Leak-Proof Hose Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection devices for pumps require two-handed operation and tools to connect hoses and power cables, leading to twisting and alignment issues, especially in vertical positions, which results in a less-than-precise connection and potential leaks.

Innovation Solution

A connection device with a self-contained elastic cuff that connects two sections of the device, allowing for one-handed operation without tools. The cuff features radial projections that align and secure the connection sections, ensuring a precise and leak-proof connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If screw connections are used to connect hoses to pump outlets, then a secure connection can be achieved, but twisting of the hose and power cable occurs and precise vertical alignment cannot be simultaneously achieved with good sealing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidalignment precision and twisting
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using threaded connections that require twisting, the patent inverts the approach by using a push-fit system with radial projections that engage into grooves. This allows vertical alignment to be achieved precisely without any twisting motion, while still providing secure connection through the interlocking projections and grooves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional screw-thread mechanical system with an elastic deformation-based system. The elastic connecting element deforms radially to allow insertion, then returns to its original shape to create a firm connection through radial projections engaging into grooves, eliminating the need for twisting while maintaining connection security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If clamp connections are used to prevent hose and power cable tangling, then alignment issues are avoided, but two-handed operation and tools are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment and anti-tanglingVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic connecting element performs the function of both alignment and connection securing automatically. The radial projections self-align with the grooves during insertion, and the elastic memory of the material provides the locking force without requiring any additional tools or two-handed operation, thus simplifying the device operation while maintaining ease of alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the parameter change of the elastic connecting element - specifically its radial deformability. The element can be compressed radially to allow insertion, then automatically returns to its original shape to engage the projections into grooves, providing both alignment and secure connection through a single motion that requires only one hand and no tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional connectors are used with screw threads, then connection can be made, but the pump and hose must be twisted relative to each other causing cumbersome operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidtwisting requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional connection approach by eliminating the need for twisting. Instead of rotating connectors to achieve connection, the radial projections engage into grooves through a simple push-fit motion, allowing the pump and hose to remain in their original orientations without any relative twisting, thus maintaining connection capability while dramatically improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 connection device allows for easy, tool-free attachment of hoses and power cables to pumps, eliminating twisting and alignment issues, and ensuring a secure, leak-proof connection in any position.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic connecting element for connecting the first end of the second connection section to the second end of the first connection section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4306838B1Connecting device, method of assembling a connecting device and use of a pump with a connecting device
Publication Date: 2025.04.02 AL KO GERATE
  • EP4306838B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4306838B1 patent drawingFigure 4~9
  • EP4306838B1 patent drawingFigure 10~12

AI summary

The invention relates to a connection device for a pump with a pump body having an outlet opening and an inlet opening, comprising at least a first connection section with a first end and a second end, a second connection section with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the second end of the first connection section in a connected state of the connection device, and an elastic connecting element for connecting the first end of the second connection section to the second end of the first connection section, wherein the elastic connecting element is designed as a self-contained cuff which has at least two radially opposing projections on its radial inner surface.which, in the connected state, engage through two openings in the region of the first end of the second connection section into a groove in the region of the second end of the first connection section. The invention further relates to a method for assembling a connection device and a pump for this purpose.