Pipeline quick connector

Abstract

The utility model discloses a quick connector for an automobile pipeline, and aims to solve the problems of low connection efficiency, insufficient strength and stability, poor universality, poor sealing performance and the like in the prior art. The structure comprises a connecting pipe, a sleeve and a clamping jaw assembly. At least one end of the connecting pipe is provided with a flaring part; the sleeve is sleeved on the outer side of the flaring part and is provided with a spiral slideway, and the flaring part of the connecting pipe is provided with a sliding block which slides in the spiral slideway; the clamping jaw assembly is nested between the connecting pipe flaring part and the pipeline and comprises a holding ring and a plurality of clamping jaws. The pipeline in butt joint with the flaring part is provided with an annular protruding part, and the clamping jaw tightly holds the protruding part when bearing axial force. The connecting structure is compact and reasonable in structure and convenient to operate, through the design, reliability and durability of pipeline connection under complex working conditions are guaranteed, connection looseness and leakage are effectively avoided, and meanwhile universality, flexibility and sealing performance are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pipeline connection device technology, and in particular to quick pipe couplings. Background Technology

[0002] In the automotive manufacturing industry, automotive piping systems are responsible for transmitting fluids such as fuel and coolant. The reliability and ease of connection are crucial to vehicle performance, safety, and maintenance efficiency. However, existing automotive quick-connect fittings have several problems. Regarding connection efficiency, traditional methods are cumbersome, requiring multiple tools and complex steps. This not only increases installation time and costs on the production line but also burdens maintenance personnel due to frequent disassembly and assembly, reducing customer satisfaction. In terms of connection strength and stability, vibrations, impacts, and temperature changes during vehicle operation can easily loosen traditional fitting structures, leading to leaks, affecting vehicle operation, and even causing safety accidents. They lack versatility and flexibility; traditional structures struggle to adapt to pipes of different diameters, increasing inventory and management costs and limiting automotive design flexibility. Their sealing performance is inadequate; long-term use leads to aging and wear of seals, resulting in leaks. Finally, they lack ease of operation, failing to adequately consider ergonomics, resulting in limited maintenance space, high operational difficulty, and increased risk of error.

[0003] Therefore, we propose quick-connect pipe fittings. Utility Model Content

[0004] To address the shortcomings of existing production technologies, the applicant provides a quick-connect pipe fitting. Regarding connection strength and stability, the optimized mechanical design of the clamp assembly, the appropriate selection of clamp materials, and the axial limiting of the pre-set holes ensure the reliability and durability of the pipe connection under complex operating conditions, effectively preventing loosening and leakage. In terms of versatility, flexibility, and sealing, the flared design accommodates pipes of different diameters, the flared designs on both sides meet the needs of multi-pipe connections and branching, and the sealing element effectively prevents fluid leakage.

[0005] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is as follows:

[0006] Quick pipe couplings, including:

[0007] A connector, which has a tubular structure and is open at both ends, is used to connect pipes, and has a flared part at at least one opening of the connector.

[0008] A sleeve is fitted onto the outside of the flared part. A spiral slide is provided on the sleeve, and a slider that slides inside the spiral slide is provided on the flared part of the connecting pipe.

[0009] A claw assembly, which is nested between the flared end of the connector and the pipe, the claw assembly includes a retaining ring and multiple claws disposed on the upper end of the retaining ring, the claws extending out of the sleeve in both the axial and radial directions;

[0010] The pipe that connects with the flared part has an annular protrusion in the middle, and the claws grip the annular protrusion when subjected to axial force.

[0011] In one embodiment, the two pipes are respectively connected to the inner and outer walls of the connecting pipe.

[0012] In one embodiment, the connecting pipe is provided with a preset hole for axial positioning of the chuck.

[0013] In one embodiment, both ends of the spiral slide are provided with enlarged holes for positioning the slider.

[0014] In one embodiment, the outer wall of the sleeve is also provided with anti-slip texture.

[0015] In one embodiment, a seal is also provided between the pipe and the connecting pipe at the flared end.

[0016] In one embodiment, the number of claws is at least two, and the multiple claws are distributed in a ring at equal intervals.

[0017] In one embodiment, the number of spiral slides is at least one.

[0018] In one embodiment, the slider is a cylindrical structure.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0020] This utility model features a compact and reasonable structure, and is easy to operate. The quick-connect automotive pipe connector of this utility model offers several significant advantages. Regarding connection strength and stability, the optimized mechanical design of the claw assembly, the appropriate selection of claw materials, and the axial limiting of the pre-set holes ensure the reliability and durability of the pipe connection under complex working conditions, effectively preventing loosening and leakage. In terms of versatility, flexibility, and sealing, the flared design accommodates pipes of different diameters, the flared designs on both sides meet the needs of multi-pipe connections and branching, and the sealing element effectively prevents fluid leakage. These advantages collectively make this quick-connect automotive pipe connector an efficient and reliable solution.

[0021] In addition, this utility model also has the following advantages:

[0022] This utility model's quick-connect automotive pipe system significantly improves the efficiency and convenience of pipe connections through innovative design. Traditional connection methods are cumbersome, requiring multiple tools and complex steps. In contrast, the sleeve and connector in this utility model achieve automatic conversion from rotational motion to axial movement through the cooperation of a spiral slide and slider. Maintenance personnel can easily connect and disconnect pipes simply by rotating the sleeve, eliminating the need for complex operations and additional tools, greatly shortening installation and maintenance time. Simultaneously, the anti-slip texture on the outer wall of the sleeve, based on ergonomic design, increases friction between fingers and the sleeve, preventing slippage and further improving operational accuracy and convenience. This reduces safety risks caused by operational errors and significantly improves the efficiency of automotive production and maintenance.

[0023] This utility model's quick-connect pipe fitting exhibits excellent performance in terms of connection strength and stability. The claw assembly is nested between the flared end of the connecting pipe and the pipe to be connected. When the sleeve moves towards the claw, it causes the claw to retract, gripping the annular protrusion on the pipe and achieving a secure connection. The claw assembly's design fully considers mechanical principles. By optimizing the shape, number, and distribution of the claws, it ensures uniform distribution and maximizes the utilization of the clamping force. Simultaneously, the claw material possesses sufficient strength and toughness to withstand various forces and vibrations during the connection process. Furthermore, pre-drilled holes on the connecting pipe provide axial restraint for the claws, preventing excessive movement or offset in the axial direction and ensuring the stability and durability of the connection. This design ensures reliable pipe connections even under complex conditions such as vibration, impact, and temperature changes during vehicle operation, effectively preventing loosening and leakage, and improving vehicle safety.

[0024] This utility model's quick-connect pipe fitting boasts high versatility and flexibility. At least one end of the connector features a flared section. This design not only provides installation space for the sleeve and clamp assembly but also accommodates pipes of different diameters, improving structural versatility and reducing inventory costs and management difficulties for automakers due to stocking various connector specifications. Furthermore, the design with flared sections on both sides of the connector, connected via sleeves, is suitable for situations requiring the connection of multiple pipes or pipe branching, facilitating parallel or branch connections of multiple pipes and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the piping system. Regarding sealing, a sealant is installed between the pipe and connector at the flared section, effectively filling minute gaps or cracks caused by manufacturing errors, improper installation, or long-term use, preventing fluid leakage and ensuring the performance and safety of the automotive piping system. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model.

[0026] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The main view.

[0028] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Sectional view along the AA direction.

[0029] in:

[0030] 100. Pipe; 200. Connector; 300. Sleeve; 400. Clamp assembly; 500. Seal;

[0031] 101. Annular protrusion; 201. Connector; 202. Preset hole; 203. Slider; 301. Anti-slip texture; 302. Spiral slide; 401. Claw; 402. Clamping ring. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The specific embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this embodiment discloses a quick-connect pipe coupling. This structure, through innovative mechanical design, achieves a quick and reliable connection between automotive pipelines and conduits, making it particularly suitable for applications requiring frequent disassembly and assembly or demanding high connection strength. The following is a detailed description of each component of this quick-connect pipe coupling and an explanation of its working principle.

[0034] The quick-connect pipe fitting mainly consists of three key parts: pipe 200, sleeve 300, and clamp assembly 400, as well as their collaborative working mechanism, which together achieves efficient connection of pipe 100.

[0035] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe 200 serves as the foundation of the entire docking structure. It is tubular with openings at both ends, designed for docking with other pipes 100. Its unique feature is that at least one end has a flared section (not directly shown in the figure, but clearly indicated by the description). This design not only provides installation space for the subsequent sleeve 300 and clamp assembly 400, but also enhances the stability of the connection through its special geometry. The presence of the flared section allows the connecting pipe 200 to accommodate docking requirements of pipes 100 of different diameters, improving the versatility and flexibility of the structure. The design of the flared section also takes into account fluid dynamics principles; by optimizing the flare angle and length, it reduces fluid resistance at the docking point, improving the efficiency of the entire piping system. Simultaneously, the surface of the flared section undergoes special treatment, such as polishing or coating, to reduce wear and corrosion, extending its service life.

[0036] In this embodiment, the sleeve 300 is a key component in the connection process, fitted onto the outside of the flared portion of the connecting pipe 200. The sleeve 300 features a spiral slide 302, a design element that is one of the core innovations of the entire structure. The presence of the spiral slide 302 allows the slider 203 on the connecting pipe 200 to move within the slide 302 when the sleeve 300 rotates, thereby converting rotational motion into axial movement of the sleeve 300. This conversion mechanism not only automates and facilitates the connection but also ensures a tight and reliable connection by precisely controlling the movement distance of the sleeve 300.

[0037] In this embodiment, the jaw assembly 400 is nested between the flared portion of the connecting pipe 200 and the pipe 100 to be connected, and is a key component for achieving the clamping effect during the connection process. It includes a retaining ring 402 and multiple jaws 401 disposed on the upper end of the retaining ring 402. These jaws 401 extend from sleeves in both the axial and radial directions, forming a unique clamping structure. When the sleeve 300 moves towards the jaw assembly 400, it causes the jaws 401 to contract, thereby clamping the annular protrusion 101 on the pipe 100, achieving a secure connection of the pipe 100. The design of the jaw assembly 400 fully considers mechanical principles, ensuring uniform distribution and maximized utilization of the clamping force by optimizing the shape, number, and distribution of the jaws 401. Simultaneously, the material selection for the jaws 401 has undergone rigorous screening, requiring sufficient strength and toughness to withstand various forces and vibrations during the connection process.

[0038] In quick-connect pipe fittings, the connection methods for pipe 100 are diverse, allowing for flexible selection based on actual needs.

[0039] A common connection method involves two pipes 100 connected to the inner and outer walls of the connecting pipe 200, respectively. Specifically, the pipe 100 with a flared end is connected to the inner wall of the flared end and mates with the connecting pipe 200; while the other pipe 100 is fitted onto the outer wall of the connecting pipe 200 and connected to the butt joint 201 on the connecting pipe 200, achieving the connection through the sleeve 300 and the clamp assembly 400. This connection method is suitable for situations requiring simultaneous connection of inner and outer pipes 100, such as certain special fluid transmission systems or equipment connections. This connection method not only improves the compactness and space utilization of the connection but also enhances the stability and vibration resistance of the entire pipeline system through the mutual support of the inner and outer pipes 100. Simultaneously, the sealing between the inner and outer pipes 100 is effectively guaranteed, preventing fluid leakage.

[0040] In another embodiment, flared ends can be provided on both sides of the connecting pipe 200, and connected to each other via sleeves 300. This connection method is suitable for situations requiring the connection of multiple pipes 100 or the branching of pipes 100. The flared ends and sleeves 300 on both sides facilitate parallel or branch connections of multiple pipes 100, improving the flexibility and scalability of the piping system. The design of the flared ends and sleeves 300 also considers ease of installation and maintenance. During installation, the pipes 100 on both sides can be connected and tested separately without interference; during maintenance, a single side of the pipe 100 or component can be easily disassembled and replaced, reducing maintenance costs and time.

[0041] To ensure that the jaw 401 accurately grips the annular protrusion 101 on the pipe 100 under the axial force of the sleeve 300, a pre-set hole 202 is provided on the connecting pipe 200 for axial limiting of the jaw 401. The design of the pre-set hole 202 is based on mechanical principles and structural stability considerations. When the jaw 401 is subjected to the axial force of the sleeve 300, the pre-set hole 202 restricts the range of movement of the jaw 401 in the axial direction, causing it to only retract radially to grip the annular protrusion 101 on the pipe 100. This design not only improves the accuracy and reliability of the connection but also avoids excessive movement or offset of the jaw 401 in the axial direction, thereby ensuring the stability and durability of the connection. The size and position of the pre-set hole 202 are precisely calculated to ensure that the jaw 401 accurately contacts and grips the annular protrusion 101 during the retraction process. At the same time, the machining accuracy of the pre-set hole 202 is also crucial, needing to meet certain standards to ensure smooth movement and tight gripping of the jaw 401.

[0042] To further improve the stability and accuracy of the sleeve 300's rotation, both ends of the spiral slide 302 are provided with enlarged holes (not directly shown in the figure, but mentioned in the description) for positioning the slider 203. The enlarged hole design is based on mechanical positioning and anti-loosening considerations. When the slider 203 moves to the enlarged hole, the step between the edge of the enlarged hole and the spiral slide 302 restricts further movement of the slider 203. This design not only ensures the accurate positioning of the sleeve 300 during rotation, but also prevents the slider 203 from loosening or falling out due to vibration or external forces, thus ensuring the reliability and safety of the connection. The size and shape of the enlarged hole match the slider 203 to ensure that the slider 203 can accurately enter and remain in the enlarged hole. At the same time, the edges of the enlarged hole are also specially treated, such as chamfering or rounding, to reduce the impact and wear of the slider 203 when entering and leaving the enlarged hole.

[0043] To facilitate user rotation of the sleeve 300, anti-slip textures 301 are provided on the outer wall of the sleeve 300. The anti-slip textures 301 are designed based on ergonomics and ease of operation. When rotating the sleeve 300, the user's fingers or palm will come into contact with the anti-slip textures 301, thereby increasing friction and preventing slippage. This design not only improves the convenience and accuracy of operation but also reduces the risk of operational errors or safety accidents caused by slippage.

[0044] A seal 500 is installed between the pipe 100 (with its flared end) and the connecting pipe 200 to improve the sealing performance between them. The seal 500 is designed for fluid sealing and leak prevention. During the connection of the pipe 100, minor gaps or cracks may exist between the pipe 100 and the connecting pipe 200 due to manufacturing errors, improper installation, or long-term use. These gaps or cracks can become pathways for fluid leakage, affecting the performance and safety of the entire piping system. By installing the seal 500, these gaps or cracks can be effectively filled, preventing fluid leakage.

[0045] In this embodiment, the number of clamping claws 401 is at least two, and the multiple clamping claws 401 are distributed equidistantly in a ring. This design is based on considerations of mechanical balance and optimal clamping effect. When there are two clamping claws 401, they can be symmetrically distributed at the upper end of the clamping ring 402, forming a stable clamping structure. This design not only simplifies the structural complexity, but also achieves effective clamping of the annular protrusion 101 of the pipe 100 through the mutual support and cooperation of the two clamping claws 401. However, in order to increase the clamping force or to accommodate the connection requirements of pipes 100 with larger diameters, more than two clamping claws 401 can be provided. The design of multiple clamping claws 401 distributed equidistantly in a ring can ensure the uniform distribution and maximized utilization of the clamping force, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the connection.

[0046] In this embodiment, the number of spiral slides 302 is at least one. However, to improve overall stability and reliability, this embodiment uses two spiral slides 302, and correspondingly, two sliders 203. The design of two spiral slides 302 and two sliders 203 forms a double-slider double-slider structure, which has higher stability and reliability. When rotating the sleeve 300, the two sliders 203 can move simultaneously within the two spiral slides 302, thereby ensuring the smooth and stable movement of the sleeve 300. Simultaneously, the double-slider double-slider design can also improve the structure's load-bearing capacity and vibration resistance, preventing structural instability or damage caused by unilateral force or vibration.

[0047] The slider 203 has a cylindrical structure. This design is based on considerations of sliding stability and wear resistance. The cylindrical slider 203 has a smooth surface and a uniform diameter, which allows it to maintain a smooth and stable sliding state when moving within the spiral slide 302. At the same time, the cylindrical slider 203 also has good wear resistance, and can withstand long-term sliding friction without easily wearing down or deforming. This design not only improves the stability and reliability of sliding, but also extends the service life of the slider 203 and the spiral slide 302.

[0048] The quick-connect pipe coupling in this specific embodiment achieves rapid and reliable connection between pipes 100 through innovative mechanical design and precise manufacturing process. This structure features a compact design, convenient operation, stable connection, and good sealing performance, making it particularly suitable for applications requiring frequent disassembly and assembly or demanding high connection strength. By optimizing the design and material selection of each component, and through a reasonable collaborative working mechanism, this quick-connect pipe coupling can meet the needs of different users, providing an efficient and reliable solution for the field of pipe connections.

[0049] The above description is an explanation of the present utility model and not a limitation thereof. The scope of the present utility model is defined by the claims. Within the protection scope of the present utility model, any form of modification may be made.

Claims

1. A quick-connect pipe coupling, characterized in that, include: A connector, which has a tubular structure and is open at both ends, is used to connect pipes, and has a flared part at at least one opening of the connector. A sleeve is fitted onto the outside of the flared part. A spiral slide is provided on the sleeve, and a slider that slides inside the spiral slide is provided on the flared part of the connecting pipe. A clamping assembly is nested between the flared end of the connector and the pipe. The clamping assembly includes a retaining ring and multiple clamping claws disposed on the upper end of the retaining ring. The clamping claws extend out of the sleeve in both the axial and radial directions. The pipe that is connected to the flared end has an annular protrusion in the middle, and the clamping claws clamp the annular protrusion when subjected to axial force.

2. The quick-connect pipe fitting as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The two pipes are respectively connected to the inner and outer walls of the connecting pipe.

3. The quick-connect pipe coupling as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting pipe is provided with a preset hole for axial positioning of the chuck.

4. The quick-connect pipe coupling as described in claim 1, characterized in that: Both ends of the spiral slide are provided with enlarged holes for positioning the slider.

5. The quick-connect pipe fitting as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The outer wall of the sleeve is also provided with anti-slip texture.

6. The quick-connect pipe fitting as described in claim 2, characterized in that: A sealing element is also provided between the pipe and the connecting pipe where the flared section is located.

7. The quick-connect pipe coupling as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The number of the chucks is at least two, and the multiple chucks are distributed in a ring at equal intervals.

8. The quick-connect pipe fitting as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The number of spiral slides is at least one.

9. The quick-connect pipe coupling as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The slider has a cylindrical structure.

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