Rotary Hose Coupling for Tool-Free Sealed Analytical Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose coupling methods for fluidic connections in analysis systems are complex, require specialized tools and assembly experience, and are not user-friendly, especially for softer hoses, leading to issues with sealing and stability under pressure or dynamic conditions.
Innovation Solution
A hose coupling system comprising a sleeve with a locking ring and a plug featuring a hook and projection, where the plug is secured against linear and rotational movement through a rotary mechanism, providing visual feedback on connection status and using an elastic seal for reliable sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a molded flange connection is used for rigid fluoropolymer hoses, then a tight seal and pressure resistance are achieved, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires specialized tools and experience
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a simple molded socket with flange, a separate insert with sealing elements, and a connector. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with optimized processes, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining sealing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
An insert component acts as an intermediary between the molded socket and the connector. This insert contains the sealing elements and provides a standardized interface, decoupling the complex sealing requirements from the hose connection process and enabling simpler assembly operations.
2Reliability
If an insert with mandrel is used for sealing, then sealing is achieved, but the hose cross-section is reduced causing flow resistance and turbulence
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is localized to specific sealing elements (O-rings, flat seals) positioned only where needed at the connection interface, rather than using a mandrel that reduces the entire hose cross-section. This localized approach maintains full flow area while providing reliable sealing at the connection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is extracted from the hose wall structure itself and implemented through separate sealing elements in the insert. This removes the need for mandrel-induced cross-section reduction, as sealing is achieved through dedicated sealing components that do not obstruct the fluid flow path.
3Reliability
If an elastomer seal is slipped over the hose end for sealing, then sealing is achieved, but installation becomes difficult requiring installation tools and increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomer sealing elements (O-rings) are nested within the insert structure, which itself is nested within the molded socket. This nested arrangement pre-positions the seals during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field installation tools while maintaining reliable sealing through the elastomeric elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing elements are pre-installed and pre-positioned within the insert during manufacturing, before the actual hose connection is made. This preliminary action ensures proper seal placement and eliminates the need for installation tools during field assembly, improving ease of operation while maintaining sealing reliability.
4Ease of operation
If a barbed connector is used for simple hose connection, then assembly is simple and tool-free, but the connection exhibits instability under pressure and pulsating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system combines multiple materials and mechanisms: molded plastic socket with flange, elastomeric sealing elements, and a connector with retention features. This composite approach maintains simple assembly operations while adding pressure resistance and stability through the combined functional elements, overcoming the limitations of simple barbed connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates dynamic retention features including the flange for positioning and retention elements that adapt to pressure conditions. These dynamic features maintain connection stability under varying pressure and pulsating conditions while preserving the simplicity of the initial assembly operation.
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 system offers a secure, user-friendly, and visually confirmable connection that is independent of tightening torque, suitable for hoses with diameters up to 10 mm, ensuring reliable sealing and mechanical stability without twisting the hose.
Implementation Method 1
using an elastic seal for reliable sealing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention provides a hose coupling for a fluidic connection in an analysis system and a method for using the same. The hose coupling comprises a sleeve (1) which includes a first hollow cylinder (2) whose channel is connected at one end to a hose (20) and whose other end comprises a first opening (10) for receiving a plug (50), wherein the end for receiving the plug is at least partially surrounded by a retaining ring (9) and a handle (5) with a gripping surface (7) is arranged on the opposite side to the retaining ring; and a plug (50) comprising a second hollow cylinder (52) which is inserted at least partially into the first opening (10) of the sleeve, wherein the end which is inserted into the sleeve has a hook (51) on one side.