Tube Assembly Apparatus with Segmented Clamps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling fittings and tubes can be challenging due to issues such as tube bending or breaking during assembly, and existing methods are time-consuming and prone to damage.
Innovation Solution
A tube assembly apparatus with clamps and interchangeable collets that use a threaded rod mechanism to securely engage and align tubes and fittings, allowing for efficient and damage-free assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual assembly methods are used, then the assembly process is simple, but the tube may bend or break and the assembly time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the clamping function into two independent clamps: a tube clamp for holding the tube and a fitting clamp for holding the fitting. Each clamp can be adjusted and positioned independently, allowing precise control over each component during assembly to prevent damage while maintaining high assembly speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus introduces an intermediary alignment mechanism that includes alignment features on both the tube clamp and fitting clamp. These alignment features guide the tube and fitting into proper alignment before assembly, preventing misalignment damage while enabling quick assembly through the standardized alignment process.
2Strength
If high clamping force is applied to secure the tube, then the assembly is secure, but the tube may break if not properly aligned
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs preliminary alignment of the tube and fitting through alignment features before applying full clamping force. The alignment pins and guide features ensure proper positioning is established first, then clamping force is gradually applied to secure the assembly without causing damage from misalignment or sudden force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamps are designed with adjustable and movable features that allow dynamic adaptation during the assembly process. The tube clamp and fitting clamp can be positioned and adjusted independently, then secured with fasteners, allowing the operator to apply force progressively while maintaining alignment, preventing tube breakage while achieving secure assembly.
3Manufacturing precision
If the tube is held firmly during assembly, then alignment is maintained, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses universal alignment features and standardized clamp designs that can accommodate different tube and fitting sizes. The alignment pins and guide features provide consistent alignment across various component types, eliminating the need for custom alignment procedures for each assembly type, thus maintaining precision while reducing assembly time through repeatability.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment features are designed to self-align the tube and fitting components during insertion. The alignment pins and guide features automatically position components correctly as they are placed in the clamps, reducing the time and skill required for manual alignment while maintaining high precision through the self-guiding mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an apparatus having a base with at least one guide formed along a length thereof. A fitting clamp and a tube clamp are coupled to the base and spaced apart from one another. A drive mechanism is operable for moving at least one clamp relative to the other clamp along the guide of the base so as to slidingly assemble a tube and fitting together.