Universal Nut Thread Adapter for Durable Plumbing Thread Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal fluid connectors face challenges in accommodating different component sizes and materials, leading to issues with thread compatibility and durability, particularly in plumbing applications where they may strip or fail under varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A universal nut with a thread adapter that includes a drive shell, a driven shell, and an elastically resilient thread adapter made from materials like brass or polypropylene, which compresses to fit securely into the driven shell's internal thread, providing improved durability and compatibility with various thread types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a universal nut is used to accommodate different component sizes, then versatility is improved, but thread compatibility and durability deteriorate due to stripping and failure under varying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The universal nut is divided into two functional segments: an inner nut with standard threads and an outer shell with adjustable threading mechanisms. This segmentation allows each part to specialize - the inner nut maintains reliable standard threading while the outer shell provides adaptability through adjustable clamping surfaces, resolving the contradiction between versatility and thread durability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary threading mechanism between the standard nut and various components. This intermediary system includes adjustable threads and clamping surfaces that can adapt to different component sizes while transferring loads through the standard inner nut, thereby maintaining thread compatibility and durability across diverse applications
2Adaptability or versatility
If the nut assembly includes multiple components for different sizes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple threading adaptations into a single integrated outer shell structure. Instead of using separate adapters for different sizes, the outer shell incorporates adjustable clamping surfaces and threading mechanisms that can accommodate various component sizes within one unified component, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The outer shell is designed as a multi-functional universal component that can interface with different component sizes through adjustable mechanisms. This single universal outer shell replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized adapters, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing the number of components
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 solution enhances thread compatibility and durability, reducing the likelihood of thread stripping and damage, while allowing for easy removal of the adapter, thus maintaining a secure connection across different plumbing components.
Implementation Method 1
an elastically resilient thread adapter made from materials like brass or polypropylene, which compresses to fit securely into the driven shell's internal thread
Data Source
AI summary
A universal nut includes at least one shell including a base wall and a skirt extending axially away from the base wall and having an internal thread, and a thread adapter threaded to the internal thread of the skirt of the at least one shell. A universal fluid connector includes the universal nut, and a conduit extending along a conduit axis and including a tubing portion and a nut coupling portion. The base wall of the at least one shell couples to the nut coupling portion of the conduit and has a conduit aperture through which the conduit extends.