Quick-Locking Line Connection Ring for Tri-Clamp Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tri-clamps are difficult to open and close, especially when handling lines that need frequent cleaning or transporting toxic substances, requiring excessive time and complicating the handling process.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a support ring and a locking device that allows for easy insertion and radial movement of the second line end, enabling quicker connection and detachment without the need for screwing, suitable for use by one person, and compatible with standard tri-clamp fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tri-clamps are used to connect line ends, then reliable connection is achieved, but the time required to open and close the connection increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is divided into distinct functional segments: a support ring that provides structural framework, a locking device with movable locking bodies for securing the connection, and release mechanisms for quick detachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function efficiently, enabling rapid connection and disconnection while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bodies are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to transition between locked and unlocked positions. The locking device incorporates dynamic elements that enable quick transitions between connected and disconnected states, dramatically reducing the time required to open and close the connection while maintaining secure connection when engaged.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If tri-clamps are used for connecting lines transporting toxic substances, then containment is achieved, but handling complexity increases due to secondary interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device incorporates a nested structure where the locking mechanism and locking bodies are integrated within the support ring assembly. The second locking body can be positioned within or alongside the first locking body, allowing multiple locking functions in a compact arrangement. This nesting reduces overall device complexity and improves handling ease while maintaining effective containment of toxic substances.
Solution Approach 2:
The support ring serves multiple functions: providing structural support, guiding the locking bodies, containing the locking mechanism, and facilitating quick release. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device structure and improving ease of operation while ensuring reliable containment of toxic substances.
3Strength
If traditional screw connections are used to close the connection terminal, then secure fastening is achieved, but the complexity and time required for assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the traditional screw-threaded mechanical fastening system with a direct locking mechanism. Movable locking bodies engage with corresponding features on the connection elements through simple radial movement rather than rotational screwing. This substitution maintains secure fastening strength while dramatically reducing assembly complexity and time, as the locking bodies can be engaged by simple linear motion instead of requiring multiple rotations of a screw.
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 connecting device simplifies the connection and disconnection process, reducing the time required and minimizing the risk of toxic substance leakage, while being cost-effective and suitable for various applications, including biotechnological and pharmaceutical uses.
Implementation Method 1
at least one locking body which is mounted in the support ring and/or in the locking device such that it can be moved in a radial direction, wherein the locking body can be adjusted by means of the locking device between an open position, in which the second end face can be brought into contact with the first end face, and a closing position, in which the locking body applies an axial clamping force onto the second rear face such that the second end face is pressed against the first end face
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connecting device (10) for connecting a first line end (12) to a second line end (14), wherein the first line end (12) has a flange-like radial first widening (16) with a first end face (18) and a first rear face (20), and the second line end (14) has a plurality of flange-like radial second widenings (22) each with a second end face (24) and a second rear face (26), wherein the second widenings (22) are separated from one another by interruption portions (84), and the connecting device (10) comprises a connecting ring (74) with a first closure face (76) and a plurality of second closure faces (70) which are separated from one another by passage portions (80), wherein the first closure face (76) can be brought into contact with the first rear face (20), and the second closure faces (78) can be brought into contact with the second rear faces (26) by virtue of the fact that the second widenings (22) are guided with an axial movement through the passage portions (80) and then a relative rotational movement is carried out between the connecting ring (74) and the first line end (12) and/or a relative rotational movement is carried out between the connecting ring (74) and the second line end (14). Moreover, the invention relates to a method and a connecting arrangement (85) for connecting a first line end (12) to a second line end (14) using such a connecting device (10).