Bayonet Closure Locking Mechanism for Weld-Free Fluid Couplings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid line coupling systems require complex assembly processes and costly welding, leading to inefficiencies and increased material and equipment costs.
Innovation Solution
A bayonet fitting device with a plug-and-twist mechanism using locking partners that secure the connection through a plug-and-twist motion, eliminating the need for welding and simplifying assembly by utilizing a locking mechanism that prevents disconnection without releasing the locking partners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to secure the connection between coupling and connecting piece, then connection strength is improved, but assembly complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/chemical joining) with a mechanical locking system consisting of locking partners and bayonet fitting. The coupling projection inserts into the coupling channel and rotates to engage the locking partners, creating a secure mechanical connection without requiring welding equipment or processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the welding operation entirely from the assembly process. By using separate locking partners that engage through rotation, the connection is secured mechanically without the need for welding rings, weld equipment, or thermal processing, thereby simplifying the overall system.
2Reliability
If welding is used to secure the connection, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking partners are designed as simple, inexpensive mechanical components that can be manufactured through standard molding or machining processes. These replace expensive welding operations and specialized welding equipment, making the overall manufacturing process more cost-effective while maintaining connection reliability through the mechanical locking mechanism.
3Productivity
If bayonet fitting with locking partners is used, then assembly speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: the coupling projection, the coupling channel, and the locking partners. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling quick assembly through a simple rotational motion while keeping individual components relatively simple in design.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~4d
Figure 5~6b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for locking a bayonet closure, wherein the device (10) has a first connection partner (12) with at least one coupling projection (16) for locking the connection and a second connection partner (14) with at least one coupling channel (18), wherein the at least one coupling projection (16) and the coupling channel (18) form a bayonet closure, wherein the at least one coupling projection (16) can be inserted into the at least one coupling channel (18) by means of a movement along a longitudinal axis (20) of the second connection partner (14) and a subsequent rotation in a first circumferential direction (46) about the longitudinal axis (20), wherein the first connection partner (12) has at least one first securing partner (32) and the second connection partner (14) has at least one second securing partner (34), wherein the at least one first securing partner (32) and the at least one second securing partner (34) are designed to lock a rotation in a second circumferential direction (48) opposite to the first circumferential direction (46) when the at least one coupling projection (16) is inserted into the at least one coupling channel (18) by means of the movement along the longitudinal axis (20) and the rotation in the first circumferential direction (46). The invention provides an improved device (10) that enables a simpler assembly and is cost-effective.