Bayonet Coupling Structure for Strong Irreversible Duct Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional coupling technologies for ducts lack modularity and have weak axial strength due to external forces, with existing designs either being one-piece molded for simplicity or using snap-fastener means that are not robust against axial forces.

Innovation Solution

A coupling design featuring a tubular body with irreversible bayonet connections using radially projecting studs and elastically deformable grooves, where the grooves have an inlet segment leading to a blind segment, ensuring strong axial engagement and preventing disengagement, with holder means to maintain the wall element in a projecting position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the body is made as a one-piece molding, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but any modularity for simplifying fabrication is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidmodularity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling body is divided into two separate body parts (first body part and second body part) that can be manufactured independently using different molds, enabling modularity while simplifying fabrication of complex connector associations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If snap-fastener means or clip-fastener means are used to connect body parts, then assembly is simplified, but the connection strength against axial forces is relatively weak

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The bayonet connection mechanism allows dynamic insertion followed by rotational engagement, transforming a simple linear assembly into a multi-stage process that creates a strong mechanical interlock capable of withstanding axial forces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection transitions from a single axial dimension to two dimensions by incorporating rotational engagement, where the second body part rotates relative to the first body part during assembly to lock the connection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If reversible connections are used, then disassembly is easy, but the connection can be accidentally disengaged under external forces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly easeVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holder means are pre-positioned to engage the protruding portion of the second body part, automatically locking the bayonet connection in its engaged state and preventing accidental disengagement before any external forces are applied

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 design provides a strong, lightweight, and modular coupling with enhanced resistance to external forces and ease of assembly, allowing for multiple angular orientations and irreversible engagement, thus improving the connection strength and simplifying manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

the wall element is elastically deformable from its projecting position towards its retracted position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the holder means comprise resilient return means for urging the wall element into its projecting position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic Recovery: Elastic Recovery

Data Source

PatentUS10975995B2Bayonet connection for coupling bodies
Publication Date: 2021.04.13 NORMA AUTOLINE FRANCE SAS
  • US10975995B2 patent drawing
  • US10975995B2 patent drawing
  • US10975995B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Fluid coupling formed as an assembly of a first body section having an end portion with studs and a second body section having an end portion configured to receive the end portion of the first body section and having grooves for receiving a corresponding one of the studs. Each of the grooves has an axial inlet section, and a blind section extending circumferentially from the inlet section to an end wall movable between a projecting position retaining the stud in the blind section and a retracted position allowing the stud to pass from the inlet to the blind section. Rotation of one of the body sections passes the studs in the retracted position of the groove end wall from the inlet section into the blind section, the studs being retained in the blind section in the projected position of the groove end wall to couple the body sections.