Threaded Tube Connection With Self-Flaring Leak-Tight Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube connection technologies face issues such as the need for specialized equipment for deformation, inadequate handling of axial and radial forces due to tapering threads, and inefficiencies in brazing processes, which are time-consuming and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A tube connection design featuring a body with a through hole and internal thread of constant pitch diameter, where the maximum diameter increases and the minimum diameter decreases axially, allowing for a flared tube end and conical thread shape that provides a secure connection without specialized tools, and can be reinforced with a cylindrical surface and seal for leak-tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tapering thread is used to enable easy insertion and rotation of the tube, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to withstand axial and radial forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The thread transitions from a tapering shape at the insertion end to a cylindrical shape with constant pitch diameter along the majority of its length. This local quality change allows the thread to provide both easy insertion (tapering portion) and strong force resistance (cylindrical portion) in different sections of the same structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread is segmented into two functional zones: a tapering section that facilitates insertion and rotation, and a cylindrical section that provides structural strength. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
2Strength
If a ridge is deformed in the tube wall to maintain the body on the tube, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and need for specialized equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tube end is designed to flare outward automatically during the insertion and rotation process into the through hole. This self-flaring action creates the ridge-like deformation without requiring external specialized equipment, making the system self-servicing and suitable for field repairs.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical shape of the through hole performs the tube deformation action during the normal insertion process itself, rather than requiring a separate preliminary deformation step. The tube material is progressively deformed as it is screwed in, preparing the connection in advance.
3Strength
If brazing is used to create strong connections for high pressure applications, then the connection strength is improved, but the productivity and ease of manufacture deteriorates due to time consumption and labor intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical thread connection system replaces the thermal brazing process. Instead of using heat and filler metal to create a strong joint, the invention uses a precisely engineered thread geometry that mechanically interlocks the tube with the fitting, achieving comparable strength without the time-consuming brazing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread parameters (constant pitch diameter, specific pitch, flank angle) are optimized to achieve high-strength connections suitable for high-pressure applications. By carefully controlling these geometric parameters, the mechanical connection attains the necessary strength characteristics traditionally associated with brazing.
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
This design enables a reliable, tool-free connection that withstands axial and radial forces, is suitable for repairs, and ensures a leak-tight seal, improving upon the limitations of existing technologies by providing a robust and efficient connection method.
Implementation Method 1
a tube, which is inserted in the tube connection by rotation, will have an end being flared outwardly. This is caused by the minimum diameter of the thread which will deform the material of the tube when rotated inwardly in the through hole.
Data Source
AI summary
A tube connection for connection to a tube includes: a body having a through hole with a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an internal thread arranged close to the first end and coaxial with the central axis. The internal thread has a constant pitch diameter. A maximum diameter of the internal thread increases in an axial direction from the first end towards the second end. A minimum diameter of the internal thread decreases in the axial direction from the first end towards the second end.