Sensor-Guided Hose Clamp Tool for Proper Securing Confirmation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The tedious and monotonous nature of installing hose clamps, especially in tight spaces, often leads to improper securing, resulting in leaks when fluids are introduced, as it is difficult to determine if self-tensioned hose clamps are properly secured before liquids are introduced.
Innovation Solution
A securing tool equipped with sensors and prying members that engage with self-tensioned hose clamps to ensure proper installation, using continuity and sound sensors to analyze signals and provide feedback on successful securing, allowing for real-time confirmation of proper clamp tensioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If self-tensioned hose clamps are used to make installation easier, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates because it is difficult to determine whether the clamp has been properly secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by providing real-time visual indicators (color changes) that immediately inform the worker whether the hose clamp has been properly installed. The system transitions from no feedback or delayed feedback to immediate visual feedback through color-coded indicators that change based on tension sensor readings, allowing workers to confirm proper installation at the moment of tightening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical judgment with automated sensor-based detection. Tension sensors electronically measure the clamp tension and automatically translate this data into visual indicators, substituting human judgment with precise electronic measurement and automated signal processing.
2Productivity
If self-tensioned hose clamps retract rapidly to secure hoses, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates because improper installation cannot be detected before fluid introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing visual confirmation indicators before fluid introduction occurs. The system预先 establishes the proper installation state through color-coded indicators that are visible immediately after installation, allowing verification to happen before the critical fluid introduction step rather than discovering problems afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate visual feedback about installation quality through color-changing indicators that respond to tension sensor readings. This feedback loop ensures that workers can verify proper installation at the moment of tightening, preventing improper installations from proceeding to fluid introduction.
3Productivity
If workers install large numbers of hose clamps during their shift, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to carelessness from tedious and monotonous work
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by automatically monitoring and verifying installation quality without requiring additional worker attention or skill. The tension sensors and visual indicators autonomously perform the quality verification function that would otherwise depend on worker concentration and expertise, allowing consistent quality even during long shifts.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated feedback system through color-coded indicators removes the burden of quality judgment from the worker. Instead of relying on worker attention and skill to determine proper installation, the system automatically provides clear visual signals, preventing quality degradation from monotony and fatigue.
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 tool ensures proper installation of hose clamps by providing immediate feedback on successful securing, reducing the likelihood of leaks and improving efficiency in securing hose clamps, even in tight and challenging environments.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor (e.g., a continuity sensor) of the securing tool may be configured to detect whether a self-tensioned hose clamp has been properly secured to a tubular conduit, such as a nozzle
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor (e.g., a sound sensor) of the securing tool may be configured to detect whether a self-tensioned hose clamp has been properly secured to a tubular conduit, such as a nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
A securing tool and methods for its use are described herein. In various embodiments, the securing tool may include a handle and one or more prying members positioned at a first end of the securing tool opposite the handle. The prying member(s) may be shaped to engage a release of a self-tensioned hose clamp to cause the handle to be manipulable to spring the self-tensioned hose clamp. The securing tool may include first and second sensors configured to provide first and second signals, respectively, that are indicative of sensed occurrence of first and second events after the handle is manipulated to spring the self-tensioned hose clamp. In various embodiments, if the first and second signals satisfy a criterion, the hose clamp may be deemed to have been properly installed onto a hose or other conduit.