Pipe quick coupling

Abstract

The present application provides a new pipe quick connector to solve the problems of the existing pipe quick connector. The structure comprises: a connector pipe with open ends and a flared portion; a sleeve pipe provided with a spiral slide on the outside of the flared portion; a sliding block on the flared portion of the connector pipe; a second jaw assembly nested between the flared portion of the connector pipe and the pipe; a first jaw on the outer wall of the sleeve pipe; and a clamping groove set on the connector pipe. The structure realizes quick connection through innovative design, enhances stability, and adapts to pipes of different diameters. In other embodiments, the design of pre-set holes, hole expansion, anti-slip lines, sealing elements, etc. improves the accuracy, reliability, and convenience of the connection, prevents loosening and leakage, enhances stability and vibration resistance, and prolongs the service life of the components.

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, the vehicle piping system is 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 quick-connect fittings for automotive pipes have numerous problems. Regarding connection efficiency, traditional methods are cumbersome, requiring multiple tools and complex procedures. This not only increases installation time and costs on the production line but also, during maintenance, frequent disassembly and reassembly are time-consuming, increasing the burden on maintenance personnel and reducing customer satisfaction.

[0003] In terms of connection strength and stability, vibrations, impacts, and temperature changes during vehicle operation can easily cause traditional docking structures to loosen and leak, affecting vehicle operation and even causing safety accidents. Furthermore, traditional structures lack versatility and flexibility, making it difficult to adapt to connections with pipes of different diameters, increasing inventory and management costs, and limiting the flexibility of vehicle design.

[0004] Therefore, we propose quick-connect pipe fittings. Utility Model Content

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a quick-connect pipe fitting that addresses the technical problems of existing automotive pipe quick-connect fittings, such as low connection efficiency, insufficient connection strength and stability, poor versatility and flexibility, and poor sealing, so as to make pipe connections faster, more reliable, more versatile, and with better sealing.

[0006] This application provides a quick-connect pipe fitting, including a connecting pipe with a tubular structure and open at both ends for connecting pipes, and a flared portion at at least one opening of the connecting pipe; a sleeve fitted over the outside of the flared portion, the sleeve having a helical slide rail, and a slider sliding inside the helical slide rail on the flared portion of the connecting pipe; and a second clamping claw assembly including a retaining ring and a plurality of second clamping claws disposed on the axial outer wall of the retaining ring, the retaining ring being nested between the flared portion of the connecting pipe and the pipe, the second clamping claws extending from the retaining ring in both axial and radial directions, the second clamping claws extending radially out of the connecting pipe and contacting the axial outer wall of the sleeve; wherein, a plurality of first clamping claws are connected to the axial outer wall of the sleeve away from the second clamping claws, and a set of engaging grooves for engaging with the first clamping claws is provided on the connecting pipe. This structure achieves quick pipe connection through innovative mechanical design. The flared portion of the connecting pipe provides installation space for the sleeve and the second clamping claw assembly, enhancing connection stability and adapting to the connection of pipes of different diameters. The spiral slide of the sleeve cooperates with the slider on the connecting pipe to convert rotational motion into axial movement, achieving automation and convenience in connection, while precise control of the movement distance ensures a tight and reliable connection. The second claw assembly grips the pipe during the axial movement of the sleeve, achieving a secure connection. The engagement of the first claw with the locking groove assembly further prevents loosening and detachment, improving connection reliability.

[0007] In other embodiments, the two pipes are respectively connected to the inner and outer walls of the connecting pipe, and an annular protrusion is provided on the radial outer wall of the pipe. This connection method is suitable for situations requiring simultaneous connection of inner and outer pipes, such as certain special fluid transmission systems or equipment connections. It improves the compactness and space utilization of the connection, and also enhances the stability and vibration resistance of the entire pipeline system through the mutual support of the inner and outer pipes. At the same time, the sealing between the inner and outer pipes is effectively guaranteed, preventing fluid leakage.

[0008] In other embodiments, the connecting pipe is provided with a preset hole for axially limiting the second jaw. The design of the preset hole is based on mechanical principles and structural stability considerations. When the second jaw is subjected to axial force from the sleeve, the preset hole can limit the range of movement of the second jaw in the axial direction, causing it to only radially contract and clamp the annular protrusion on the pipe. This improves the accuracy and reliability of the connection and also avoids excessive movement or offset of the second jaw in the axial direction, ensuring the stability and durability of the connection.

[0009] In other embodiments, both ends of the spiral slide are provided with enlarged holes for positioning the slider. The design of the enlarged holes is based on mechanical positioning and anti-loosening considerations. When the slider moves to the enlarged hole, the step between the edge of the enlarged hole and the spiral slide restricts further movement of the slider. This ensures accurate positioning of the sleeve during rotation and prevents the slider from loosening or dislodging due to vibration or external force, thus guaranteeing the reliability and safety of the connection.

[0010] In other embodiments, the outer wall of the sleeve is further provided with anti-slip texture. The anti-slip texture is designed based on ergonomic and ease-of-operation considerations. It increases friction when rotating the sleeve, preventing slippage or slipping. This improves the ease and accuracy of operation and reduces the risk of operational errors or safety accidents caused by slippage.

[0011] In other embodiments, a seal is also provided between the pipe and the connecting pipe at the flared end location. During pipe connection, due to manufacturing errors, improper installation, or long-term use, minute gaps or cracks may exist between the pipe and the connecting pipe. These gaps or cracks may become channels for fluid leakage, thereby affecting the performance and safety of the entire piping system. By providing a seal, these gaps or cracks can be effectively filled, preventing fluid leakage.

[0012] In other embodiments, the number of second claws is at least two, and the multiple second claws are distributed equidistantly in a ring. When there are two second claws, they can be symmetrically distributed at the upper end of the clamping ring, forming a stable clamping structure. This simplifies the structural complexity and, through the mutual support and cooperation of the two second claws, achieves effective clamping of the annular protrusion of the pipe. To increase the clamping force or accommodate the connection requirements of larger diameter pipes, more than two second claws can be provided. The design of multiple second claws distributed equidistantly in a ring ensures the uniform distribution and maximized utilization of the clamping force, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the connection.

[0013] In other embodiments, the number of spiral slides is at least one. To improve overall stability and reliability, this embodiment uses two spiral slides, and correspondingly, two sliders. The design of two spiral slides and two sliders forms a double-slider double-slider structure, which has higher stability and reliability. When rotating the sleeve, the two sliders can move simultaneously within the two spiral slides, thereby ensuring the smooth and stable movement of the sleeve. 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.

[0014] In other embodiments, the slider is a cylindrical structure. This design is based on considerations of sliding stability and wear resistance. The cylindrical slider has a smooth surface and a uniform diameter, which allows it to maintain a smooth and stable sliding motion within the helical track. Simultaneously, the cylindrical slider also has good wear resistance, able to withstand long-term sliding friction without easily wearing down or deforming. This improves sliding stability and reliability, and also extends the service life of the slider and the helical track.

[0015] In other embodiments, the locking groove assembly includes a first locking groove and a second locking groove arranged in parallel, and the axial distance between the first locking groove and the second locking groove is the same as the axial height of the spiral slide. When the slider moves to the uppermost end of the spiral slide, the first claw engages in the first locking groove, which, together with the enlarged hole, limits the slide. The engagement of the first claw with the first locking groove further limits the slide and prevents it from loosening and falling off. When the slider moves to the lowermost end of the spiral slide, the first claw engages in the second locking groove, again limiting the slide and preventing it from loosening and falling off. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model.

[0017] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model (after removing the pipe).

[0019] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Sectional view along the AA direction.

[0020] in:

[0021] 100. Pipe; 200. Connector; 300. Sleeve; 400. Second clamp assembly; 500. Seal;

[0022] 101. Annular protrusion; 201. Connector; 202. Preset hole; 203. Slider; 204. Snap-fit ​​groove assembly; 2041. First snap-fit ​​groove; 2042. Second snap-fit ​​groove; 301. Anti-slip texture; 302. Spiral slide; 303. First claw; 401. Second claw; 402. Clamping ring. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The specific embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The quick-connect pipe fitting mainly includes a pipe 200, a sleeve 300, a second clamping component 400, and the working mechanism between them, which together achieves efficient connection of the pipe 100.

[0026] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe 200 serves as the foundation of the entire docking structure. It is tubular with openings at both ends and designed for docking with other pipes 100. Its unique feature is that at least one end has a flared section, meaning the diameter of this section is larger than the diameters of the other sections. This design not only provides installation space for the subsequent sleeve 300 and the second 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 with 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 and extend its service life.

[0027] In this embodiment, the sleeve 300 is fitted onto the outside of the flared portion of the connecting pipe 200. A spiral slide 302 is provided on the sleeve 300; this design 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 the rotational motion into axial movement of the sleeve 300. This conversion mechanism not only achieves automation and convenience in connection but also ensures a tight and reliable connection by precisely controlling the movement distance of the sleeve 300.

[0028] In this embodiment, the second clamping jaw assembly 400 includes a retaining ring 402 and multiple second clamping jaws 401 connected to the axial outer wall of the retaining ring 402. The retaining ring 402 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 the retaining ring 402 and multiple second clamping jaws 401 disposed on the upper end of the retaining ring 402. These second clamping jaws 401 extend out of sleeves in both the axial and radial directions, forming a unique clamping structure. When the sleeve 300 moves toward the second clamping jaw assembly 400, it causes the second clamping jaws 401 to retract, thereby clamping the annular protrusion 101 on the pipe 100, achieving a firm connection of the pipe 100. The design of the second clamping jaw assembly 400 fully considers the principles of mechanics, and by optimizing the shape, number, and distribution of the second clamping jaws 401, it ensures the uniform distribution and maximized utilization of the clamping force. Meanwhile, the material selection for the second claw 401 has also undergone strict screening, requiring sufficient strength and toughness to withstand various forces and vibrations during the connection process.

[0029] In quick-connect pipe fittings, the connection methods for pipe 100 are diverse, allowing for flexible selection based on actual needs.

[0030] 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 second 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] To ensure that the second jaw 401 accurately grips the annular protrusion 101 on the pipe 100 after being subjected to the axial force of the sleeve 300, a pre-set hole 202 is provided on the connecting pipe 200 for axially limiting the second jaw 401. The design of the pre-set hole 202 is based on mechanical principles and structural stability considerations. When the second jaw 401 is subjected to the axial force of the sleeve 300, the pre-set hole 202 can limit the range of movement of the second jaw 401 in the axial direction, so that it can 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 second 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 second jaw 401 can accurately contact and grip the annular protrusion 101 during the retraction process. At the same time, the machining accuracy of the pre-set hole 202 is also crucial and needs to meet certain standards to ensure the smooth movement and tight grip of the second jaw 401.

[0033] To improve the clamping effect and prevent the slider 203 from detaching from the spiral slide 302, in this embodiment, as follows: Figure 1As shown in the figure, multiple first claws 303 are connected to the axial outer wall of the sleeve 300 away from the second claw 401, and a set of engaging grooves 204 is provided on the connecting pipe 200 to engage with the first claws 303. The set of engaging grooves 204 includes parallel first engaging grooves 2041 and second engaging grooves 2042, and the axial distance between the first engaging grooves 2041 and the second engaging grooves 2042 is the same as the axial height of the spiral slide 302, such that:

[0034] When the slider 203 moves to the top of the spiral slide 302, the first claw 303 just engages with the first locking groove 2041. While the slide 302 is limited by the enlarged hole, the engagement of the first claw 303 with the first locking groove 2041 further limits the movement and prevents it from loosening and falling off.

[0035] When the slider 203 moves to the bottom of the spiral slide 302, the first claw 303 just engages with the second locking groove 2042. The engagement of the first claw 303 with the second locking groove 2042 limits the movement again, preventing it from loosening and falling off.

[0036] To further improve the stability and accuracy of the sleeve 300's rotation, both ends of the spiral slide 302 are equipped with enlarged holes 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 area, 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 dislodging due to vibration or external forces, thus guaranteeing 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 area. Simultaneously, the edges of the enlarged hole are specially treated, such as chamfered or rounded transitions, to reduce impact and wear on the slider 203 when entering and leaving the enlarged hole.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] In this embodiment, there are at least two second claws 401, and the multiple second 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 second 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 second 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 second claws 401 can be provided. The design of multiple second 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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. The second claw assembly includes a retaining ring and a plurality of second claws disposed on the axial outer wall of the retaining ring. The retaining ring is nested between the flared part of the connecting pipe and the pipe. The second claws extend from the axial and radial directions of the retaining ring. The second claws extend radially out of the connecting pipe and contact the axial outer wall of the sleeve. The sleeve has multiple first claws connected to its axial outer wall away from the second claw, and a set of snap-fit ​​grooves that engage with the first claws are provided on the connecting pipe.

2. The quick-connect pipe coupling as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The two pipes are respectively connected to the inner and outer walls of the connecting pipe, and an annular protrusion is provided on the radial outer wall of the 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 second 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 fitting as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The number of the second claws is at least two, and the multiple second claws 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.

10. The quick-connect pipe coupling as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​groove group includes a first snap-fit ​​groove and a second snap-fit ​​groove arranged in parallel, and the axial distance between the first snap-fit ​​groove and the second snap-fit ​​groove is the same as the axial height of the spiral slide.

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