Compression Wedge Visual Indication via Color-Coded Screw and Socket
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lead-through system wedges lack a direct and distinct indication of the desired mutual position between moving parts, making it difficult to determine if the correct compression force has been applied, leading to potential seal issues.
Innovation Solution
The wedge incorporates an indication means using colored markings on the screw end and the inner surface of the socket opening, allowing for visual and tactile confirmation of the compression state, ensuring the correct position is immediately detectable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the distance between screw heads and wedge is measured to determine compression force, then the compression force can be controlled, but the measurement process is cumbersome and does not provide direct indication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coded markings on the screw heads and wedge surface to provide direct visual indication of compression force. Different colors represent different compression levels, allowing workers to immediately identify the correct compression state without complex measurements. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement precision through color-coded reference while dramatically improving ease of operation through intuitive visual feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement system (rulers, calipers, and manual distance measurement) with a visual indication system using colored markings. This substitution eliminates the need for cumbersome mechanical measurement tools and procedures while providing direct, immediate indication of compression force levels, thereby improving operational ease while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Reliability
If the wedge is compressed to achieve sealing, then the seal quality improves, but it is difficult to determine when the correct compression force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded markings on the wedge and screw heads to provide immediate visual detection of the compression state. When the screw heads are tightened to the correct position, the colored markings align or show a specific color pattern that clearly indicates the desired compression level has been achieved. This ensures reliable seal quality while making compression state detection simple and straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a visual feedback mechanism through colored markings that provide real-time information about the compression state. As the wedge is compressed, the relative positions of the colored markings change, giving continuous feedback to the operator about whether the correct compression force has been applied. This feedback system ensures proper seal quality while eliminating the difficulty of detecting compression state.
3Loss of information
If the indication means is placed on the wedge, then the compression state can be indicated, but visibility may be low in certain placements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs high-contrast color markings on the wedge and screw heads to maximize visibility of the compression state indication. The use of distinctly different colors (such as contrasting bright colors) ensures that the indication remains visible even in low-light conditions or when the wedge is positioned in hard-to-see locations. This maintains complete information about compression state while compensating for limited visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the colored markings as an intermediary visual element that mediates between the mechanical compression state and the operator's perception. The color markings act as a visual mediator that can be observed from various angles and distances, making the compression state information accessible even when the wedge itself is in a position with poor direct visibility.
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 provides a clear and immediate indication of the compression state, enabling proper installation and ensuring the application of the correct force, thereby preventing under or over-compression and ensuring a secure seal.
Implementation Method 1
two screws, whereby each screw has threads with opposite pitches. The screws are connected to two wedge elements, which are moved towards each other if the screws are turned in a first direction and away from each other if the screws are turned in the opposite direction
Implementation Method 2
Two further wedge elements are placed on sloping surfaces on opposite sides of the two first wedge elements, whereby the two further wedge elements will be moved toward and away from each other depending on the movement of the two first wedge elements
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~9
Figure 10~14
AI summary
The present invention concerns an indication means using the positions of two mutually moveable parts of an element. In one embodiment the indication means is used for a compression wedge of a lead-through system. The wedge comprises a first and a second wedge element (1, 2) moveable towards and away from each other between two extremes. A socket (7) is fastened in a rotatable way to the first wedge element (1) and a screw (6) is fixed to the second wedge element (2). One coloured end (11) of the screw (6) is received in a through opening (17) of the socket (7). The inner surface of said through opening has another colour than the coloured end (11) of the screw (6). The mutual position of the first and second wedge elements (1, 2) are controlled by rotation of the socket (7) on the screw (6).