Quick-Connect Manifold for Rotating Part-Forming Fixtures
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of connecting and disconnecting individual hoses to part-forming fixtures, such as mandrels used in composite fuselage fabrication, is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and can lead to hose disorganization, damage, and tripping hazards, especially when the fixture rotates.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect manifold system with tool and fixture manifolds, alignment guides, and a rotatable joint that allows simultaneous connection and disconnection of multiple hoses, along with a hose management tool and control system for managing flowable material delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual hoses are manually connected and disconnected to each port, then connection quality can be tested, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual hose connections into a single manifold assembly. The manifold integrates multiple ports and hoses into one unit that connects to the fixture as a single assembly, eliminating the need to individually connect and disconnect each hose while maintaining connection quality through integrated sealing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold system segments the hose management into organized groups within the manifold structure. Hoses are pre-organized and routed through the manifold, which divides the complex connection task into manageable segments that can be connected as a unit rather than individual components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hoses are used to deliver material to fixture ports, then flowable material can be delivered to multiple ports, but hoses become disorganized and create tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold merges multiple hoses into a single organized assembly. All hoses are integrated into the manifold structure with designated routing paths, connection points, and support structures, transforming a disorganized collection of individual hoses into a unified, manageable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold incorporates flexible hose routing channels and protective coverings that guide hoses along predetermined paths. These flexible structures allow the hoses to move with the fixture while maintaining organization and preventing tangling or damage.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If hoses remain connected during fixture rotation, then connection continuity is maintained, but hoses can become damaged or disorganized
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system incorporates dynamic elements such as rotary joints, flexible couplings, and articulated connections that allow the manifold to move with the fixture during rotation. These dynamic components maintain sealed connections while accommodating rotational motion, preventing hose damage from bending or twisting beyond safe limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold uses flexible hoses and flexible connection structures that can bend and rotate with the fixture while maintaining their sealing integrity. These flexible elements are designed with appropriate bend radii and rotational capabilities to accommodate fixture movement without damaging the hoses.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixtures are rotated during part-forming process, then access to different areas is enabled, but hoses must be disconnected and reconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold incorporates rotary joints and flexible connections that enable the entire manifold assembly to rotate with the fixture. This dynamic capability allows the manifold to maintain continuous connections during fixture rotation, eliminating the need to disconnect and reconnect hoses when accessing different areas of the fixture.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed as a universal connection system that can accommodate fixture rotation and positioning in various orientations. The standardized manifold interface and flexible connections allow the system to function effectively regardless of fixture orientation, providing continuous material delivery during repositioning operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system, and methods for providing flowable material to a part-forming fixture. The apparatus comprising a tool manifold and a fixture manifold. The tool manifold comprises a tool-manifold base and a plurality of tool fittings extending through the tool-manifold base. The fixture manifold comprises a fixture-manifold base and a plurality of fixture fittings extending through the fixture-manifold base. An interface end of each one of the plurality of tool fittings is removably attachable to an interface end of a corresponding one of the plurality of fixture fittings such that, when attached, a seal is created between the tool fittings and the corresponding fixture fitting and flowable material is flowable from each one of the tool fittings into the corresponding one of the fixture fittings.