Unitary Ferrule Torque Communication via Radial Crush

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hose couplings are expensive and lack precise control over pinching force, often requiring multiple ferrule sizes for different hose diameters and constructions, leading to increased inventory and potential leaks.

Innovation Solution

A unitary, one-piece radially crushable ferrule with a crushable socket portion, an attachment portion, and a torque communication portion, which eliminates one component and possible leak paths, providing torque communication and secure attachment to a hose end through deformation and work hardening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple ferrule sizes are used for different hose diameters and constructions, then adaptability to various hoses is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to various hosesVSAvoidnumber of ferrule sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent describes a ferrule design that can accommodate multiple hose sizes and constructions through a single universal ferrule geometry. The ferrule includes a body portion with an internal cavity and a crimping portion that can be deformed to secure different hose types (tube, reinforcement, cover combinations) without requiring size-specific ferrule variations, thereby reducing inventory while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If reusable couplings with threaded members are used to activate pinching means, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereusability of couplingVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent describes a disposable ferrule design that is crimped onto the hose end and then discarded after use. This eliminates the need for expensive reusable couplings with threaded members and mechanical pinching means. The ferrule is typically made from drawn or stamped metal stock, significantly reducing manufacturing cost while providing adequate function for single-use applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If mechanical pinching means are used in reusable couplings, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision control deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical pinching controlVSAvoidpinching force control

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent describes changing the physical state and geometry of the ferrule through plastic deformation during the crimping process. The ferrule transitions from a cylindrical shape to a constricted shape that mechanically interlocks with the hose. This deformation process, controlled by crimping tools, provides precise control over the pinching force and geometry, ensuring consistent securing of the hose without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Reduces the number of parts needed, enhances torque communication, and ensures precise control over hose pinching force, minimizing inventory and leak risks while maintaining structural integrity.

Implementation Method 1

a ferrule which may be crushed radially to a smaller diameter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPlastic deformation: Plasticity

Implementation Method 2

provides torque communication to an attached fluid power component following securement of the attachment portion to the component. The securement may comprise deformation of the attachment portion to interface with the component

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWork hardening: Shock Hardening

Data Source

PatentUS9857008B2Crimpable or swageable fluid power ferrules, couplings, systems and methods employing torque communication

Publication Date: 2018.01.02 THE GATES CORP

AI summary

A hose end coupling unitary, one-piece radially crushable ferrule has a crushable socket portion, a deformable attachment portion, and a work hardened torque communication portion defined between the socket portion and the attachment portion. The torque communication portion may be formed in the unitary one-piece radially crushable ferrule, contiguous with the socket portion and the attachment portion. Corners of the torque communication portion may be strengthened and/or the torque communication portion work hardened by disposing a die set about the formed torque communication portion and pressing the torque communication portion into the die set, strengthening corners of the torque communication portion and work hardening the torque communication portion. A mandrel having a desired internal shape of the torque communication portion may be deployed inside the torque communication portion during pressing.