Fluid Connector Assembly With Canted Coil for Low-Force Tube Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid connectors require complex assembly processes, high insertion forces, and post-process machining, which can lead to structural integrity issues and loss of retaining clips during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection assembly utilizing a canted coil retainer and a removable spacer that simplifies assembly by reducing insertion force and eliminating the need for post-process machining, with a spacer and tube design providing visual indication of correct insertion and quick release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retaining clip is used to secure the tube, then the tube can be locked in position, but the assembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip function is extracted and integrated into the connector body as a built-in retaining structure. The connector body includes a retaining portion that directly engages with the tube without requiring a separate retaining clip component, thereby simplifying assembly while maintaining reliable tube locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining function is merged with the connector body structure. The retaining portion is formed as an integral part of the connector body, combining the connector and retaining mechanisms into a single unified component, eliminating the need for separate retaining clips and reducing assembly steps.
2Reliability
If slots are machined in the connector body for retaining clip installation, then the retaining clip can engage the tube, but post-process manufacturing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining portion is merged into the connector body as an integral structure formed during the primary molding process. This integration eliminates the need for post-process machining of slots, as the retaining features are created directly in the molding step, simplifying the manufacturing process while ensuring reliable tube engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining features are prepared in advance during the connector body molding process rather than requiring post-assembly machining. The retaining portion is pre-formed with appropriate geometry to engage the tube directly, eliminating subsequent manufacturing steps.
3Reliability
If a traditional retaining clip design is used, then the tube can be secured, but the insertion force required is very large
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining portion utilizes curved or tapered surfaces that guide the tube into the locked position smoothly. The curved geometry distributes the engagement force over a larger area and along a gradual path, reducing the peak insertion force required while maintaining secure tube locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the retaining portion are optimized to reduce engagement force. The retaining features are designed with specific dimensional ratios and surface profiles that minimize resistance during tube insertion while ensuring reliable locking, changing the force parameters through geometric optimization.
4Volume of moving object
If thin and small retaining clips are used, then the connector can be compact, but the clips are easy to lose if dropped or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining function is merged into the connector body as a built-in structure rather than using separate thin retaining clips. This integration eliminates the risk of losing separate retaining components while maintaining compact connector dimensions, as the retaining features are part of the main body structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate retaining clip component is extracted from the system and its function is incorporated directly into the connector body. This eliminates the need for small, loose retaining clips that can be misplaced, while the retaining portion remains integrated and secure within the connector structure.
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 solution enables easy and tool-free assembly with reduced insertion force, improved cleanliness in manufacturing, and enhanced serviceability of fluid connections, while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a canted coil spring arranged in a through-bore of the connector body
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid connection assembly, including a connector body, including a first end, a second end, a first through-bore, a canted coil arranged in the first through-bore, and a first radially outward facing surface including a first groove, and a spacer operatively arranged to be removably connected to the connector body, the spacer including a first section, including a third end engaged with the first groove, a fourth end, a first axial surface arranged between the third end and the fourth end, a first male connector, and a first female connector, and a second section, including a fifth end engaged with the first groove, a sixth end, a second axial surface arranged between the fifth end and the sixth end, a second male connector arranged to engage with the first female connector, and a second female connector arranged to engage with the first male connector.