Torque-Fit Ferrule Fitting With Integral Wedge
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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-tightening or under-tightening.
Innovation Solution
The development of flareless fittings with structures that facilitate pull-up by torque, such as inclined or wedge surfaces, rings, and specialized threads, allowing for a sharp torque increase when properly assembled, enabling assembly using a torque wrench and allowing for repeated disassembly and reassembly with a successful seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ferrule type fittings are assembled by turns (pull-up by turns), then the fitting achieves proper seal and grip, but the assembly procedure becomes complex and requires precise control of turn count
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the assembly parameter from angular displacement (turns) to torque. The fitting is designed with a torque increasing arrangement that causes torque to increase sharply when the fitting is properly assembled, allowing the assembler to use a torque wrench to achieve proper assembly by monitoring torque rather than counting turns.
2Strength
If ferrule type fittings use traditional threaded components, then the fitting achieves adequate grip, but the structure becomes complex and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the threaded component and the torque increasing arrangement into a single integrated structure. The fitting includes a first threaded component and a second threaded component where the second component includes an inclined surface that acts as the torque increasing arrangement, eliminating the need for separate complex mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If ferrule type fittings are designed for pull-up by turns, then the fitting achieves proper assembly, but the assembly time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback into the assembly process through the torque increasing arrangement. As the fitting is assembled, the torque required to continue tightening increases sharply when proper assembly is achieved, providing real-time feedback to the assembler through the torque wrench reading, allowing for quick and accurate assembly without time-consuming turn counting.
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 solution enables reliable, cost-effective assembly of ferrule type fittings using torque instead of turns, ensuring a secure fluid-tight seal and easy reassembly, addressing the industry's need for simpler and more reliable assembly methods.
Implementation Method 1
The structure may take a wide variety of different forms. Examples of fitting component structures that facilitate pull-up by torque include, but are not limited to, an inclined or wedge surface defined by at least one of the fitting components
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting is provided that may optionally be pulled-up to its final assembled condition by torque rather than by turns. In one embodiment, at least one fitting component includes a structure that facilitates pull-up by torque. The structure may take a wide variety of different forms.