Torque-Based Ferrule Fitting Assembly with Deformable Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
The automotive industry has resisted using ferrule type fittings due to cost and assembly complexity, particularly because they require precise turns for assembly, whereas a simpler torque-based assembly method is preferred for ensuring proper connection without over-torquing or under-torquing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a conduit fitting design that includes a first and second coupling member with an internal conduit gripping device and an external deformable structure, allowing the fitting to be assembled by torque, where the external deformable structure is engaged and axially compressed to increase torque requirement at a predetermined position, ensuring a secure seal and grip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ferrule type fittings are assembled by pull-up by turns method, then proper seal and grip are achieved, but assembly complexity increases and requires precise turn control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the assembly parameter from angular displacement (turns) to torque. The fitting is designed with a torque-indicating feature that provides a visual or tactile signal when the predetermined torque is reached, allowing workers to assemble by torque without needing to count turns or control angular displacement precisely.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting assembly includes built-in torque-indicating features that automatically signal when proper assembly is achieved. The deformable structure provides self-indicating functionality through color change, shape change, or other visual/tactile cues, eliminating the need for external measurement tools or complex assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If ferrule type fittings are assembled by pull-up by turns method, then proper seal and grip are achieved, but loss of time occurs due to precise turn counting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the assembly parameter from angular displacement (turns) to torque. The torque-indicating feature provides immediate visual or tactile feedback when the predetermined torque is reached, eliminating the time-consuming process of counting turns and verifying precise angular displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows workers to quickly apply torque to the fitting without needing to carefully count each turn or control the assembly process step-by-step. The torque-indicating feature enables rapid assembly by providing clear signals when the target torque is reached, allowing workers to move quickly through the assembly process while maintaining quality.
3Reliability
If automotive industry uses traditional ferrule fittings, then fluid connection performance is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single fitting assembly: the deformable structure serves both as a seal element and as a torque-indicating mechanism. The torque-indicating feature is built into the fitting itself rather than requiring separate indicators or measurement tools, reducing overall system cost while maintaining performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive deformable materials for the torque-indicating feature that provide reliable visual or tactile signals. These indicia structures can be simple color-coded features, shape changes, or other low-cost mechanisms that effectively communicate assembly status without requiring expensive sensors or electronic systems.
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 method enables reliable assembly of ferrule type fittings by torque, providing a secure seal and grip, and allowing for multiple remakes with the same initial torque, simplifying the assembly process while ensuring proper connection without over-torquing or under-torquing.
Implementation Method 1
an external deformable structure... axially compress the external deformable structure, until an amount of torque required to continue pulling up the first coupling member increases to a predetermined torque
Data Source
AI summary
In a method of assembling a conduit fitting, a conduit fitting is provided, including a first coupling member, a second coupling member, an internal conduit gripping device disposed between said first coupling member and said second coupling member, and an external deformable structure. The first coupling member is pulled up with the second coupling member on an end portion of a conduit to engage the external deformable structure with an external surface of one of the first and second coupling members. After engaging the external deformable structure with the external surface of one of the first and second coupling members, the first coupling member is further pulled up with the second coupling member to axially compress the external deformable structure, until an amount of torque required to continue pulling up the first coupling member increases to a predetermined torque. The predetermined torque corresponds to an initial pulled-up position in which the conduit gripping device grips and seals the conduit.