Tube Coupling Jaw Control to Prevent Over-Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube coupling apparatuses face challenges in preventing over-compression during the fitting process, which can lead to seal failure and leakage due to the reliance on manual operation and variable pressure requirements for different coupling configurations.
Innovation Solution
A tube coupling apparatus with a tool body, movable clamping jaws, an actuator, and a controller with a sensor to monitor and control the compression force, automatically stopping at a predetermined threshold to prevent over-compression and ensure complete fitting without damaging the coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual hydraulic actuation is used to compress the tube coupling, then the operator can control the fitting process, but the risk of over-compression and seal failure increases due to variable pressure requirements and human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-monitoring and self-regulation through the sensor and controller that automatically detect when the compression threshold is reached and stop the actuator, eliminating the need for manual judgment and control by the operator
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor provides real-time feedback on the compression force applied to the coupling, and the controller uses this feedback to automatically control the actuator, creating a closed-loop control system that prevents over-compression
2Reliability
If automated sensor control is implemented to prevent over-compression, then sealing reliability improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and controllers
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical control system is replaced with an automated electronic control system that uses a sensor to detect compression force and a controller to manage the actuator, substituting human operation with automated electronic control
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor acts as an intermediary between the mechanical compression process and the electronic control system, translating physical compression force into electrical signals that the controller can process
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 apparatus ensures precise control of compression force, preventing over-compression and ensuring a secure seal, while also monitoring and logging operational cycles to indicate when maintenance is required, thereby extending the tool's lifecycle and preventing damage.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor arranged to determine a system parameter indicative of the compression force applied to the coupling by the clamping jaws
Implementation Method 2
the clamping jaws apply a compression force to compress the compressible tube coupling about one or more tube members
Data Source
AI summary
A tube coupling apparatus includes first and second clamping jaws that are mounted on a tool body. The clamping jaws are movable relative to each other between an open configuration in which they are receive a compressible tube connector, and a closed configuration in which they apply a compression force to compress the compressible tube coupling about one or more tube members. An actuator is arranged to move at least one of the clamping jaws to the closed configuration and a controller is operative to control the actuator. A sensor is provided that is arranged to determine a system parameter indicative of the compression force applied to the coupling by the clamping jaws and to progressively increase the compression force of the clamping jaws during a fitting operation. The controller monitors the system parameter data from the sensor and automatically controls the actuator to prevent the compression force exceeding a predetermined threshold based on the sensor data.