Rotating Gas Spring Fitting for Tool-Free Pressurized Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas spring assemblies require tools for securing fittings, which can be inconvenient and may not maintain a robust, fluid-tight connection, especially when the assembly contains pressurized gas.
Innovation Solution
A gas spring assembly with a fitting that is rotatable between a displaceable and a restrained position, allowing tool-free securement and retention on an end member, featuring a longitudinally-extending fitting body and a sealing member for a fluid-tight seal, along with a method of assembling that includes securement features for cooperative alignment and rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fittings are secured on an end member using traditional methods, then the connection can be made, but tool usage is required and the connection may not remain robust and fluid-tight under pressurized conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting incorporates a rotatable component that transitions between a first position for installation and a second position for retention. During installation, the fitting is rotated to the first position where it can be freely inserted without tools. After insertion, the fitting is rotated to the second position where it engages with the end member to provide secure, tool-free retention even under pressurized conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting utilizes changes in its rotational parameter to alter its engagement state with the end member. By rotating between different angular positions, the fitting transforms from an installable state to a retained state, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining robust connection reliability under pressure.
2Ease of operation
If a fitting is designed to be retained on an end member without tools, then ease of operation improves, but the connection may not maintain robustness under pressurized gas conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting employs a dynamic rotational mechanism that allows it to be easily installed without tools by rotating to the first position, then secures itself under pressure by rotating to the second position where it engages with the end member, simultaneously achieving ease of operation and connection robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is designed to self-retain on the end member through its own rotational movement. After being inserted in the first position, the fitting rotates to the second position where it automatically engages with the end member structure, providing self-service retention without requiring additional tools or components.
3Ease of operation
If a fitting allows rotational movement for installation, then ease of installation improves, but the fitting may not be retained in position under pressurized conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting utilizes controlled rotational dynamics to transition from a mobile first position during installation to a stable second position for retention. The rotational movement enables easy installation, while the engagement mechanism in the second position ensures stable retention under pressurized conditions, resolving the contradiction between mobility and stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A gas spring assembly includes a first end member and a second end member. A flexible wall is secured between the first and second end members and at least partially defines a spring chamber therebetween. A fitting is supported on the first end member and is rotatable between a first position in which the fitting can be axially displaced and a second position in which the fitting is axially restrained. A method is also included.