Clinched Fluid Drain Connector for Fast, Leak-Tight Panel Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connectors for vehicles, particularly those used in drainage assemblies, are time-consuming and complex to install, adding weight, cost, and compromising the fluid-tightness of the connection due to multi-part designs and manual welding or brazing methods.
Innovation Solution
A fluid drain connector with a clinching element that plastically deforms to attach to a vehicle body panel, featuring a flange and hose connector, and includes anti-rotation lock features for secure attachment, allowing for a seamless and fluid-tight connection without additional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding or brazing methods are used to connect fluid connectors to vehicle body panels, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal joining methods (welding/brazing) with a mechanical clinching system. The clinching element features a deformable region that plastically deforms under pressing force to create interlocking engagement with the vehicle body panel, eliminating the need for heat-based joining processes while achieving strong mechanical attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-part connectors are used to provide fluid drainage functionality, then the adaptability and functionality are improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components into a single integrated fluid connector. The connector includes an integrated clinching element for attachment, a tubular body for fluid flow, and a hose connector for hose attachment, all formed as one piece. This merging reduces part count, simplifies assembly, and decreases weight while maintaining all necessary functionality.
3Ease of operation
If manual installation methods are used for fluid connectors, then the installation flexibility is improved, but the productivity and assembly efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The clinching element is designed to be self-installing through a automated pressing process. The deformable region automatically engages with the vehicle body panel when pressing force is applied, creating a self-locking mechanical connection without requiring manual dexterity or complex installation tools. This enables high-speed automated assembly while maintaining installation flexibility.
4Reliability
If additional components and materials are used to ensure fluid-tightness, then the seal reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing function from separate sealing components (such as gaskets or sealing rings) and integrates it directly into the clinching element and vehicle body panel interface. The plastic deformation of the clinching element creates a metal-to-metal seal that is inherently fluid-tight, eliminating the need for additional sealing materials and reducing manufacturing complexity.
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
Facilitates quick and reliable installation of fluid connectors, ensuring a flush finish and fluid-tight seal, reducing weight and cost by eliminating the need for multiple parts and additional materials.
Implementation Method 1
the clinching element comprises a deformable region arranged to plastically deform outwardly under the influence of force so as to clinch a portion of a vehicle body panel between the flange portion and clinching element
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Fluid drain connector(1) for a vehicle, the fluid drain connector comprising a flange portion(26) having a clinching element (3) to a first side thereof and a hose connector (4) extending from a second side thereof, the fluid drain connector having a generally tubular body, wherein the clinching element comprises a deformable region (31) arranged to deform under the influence of force so as to clinch a portion of a vehicle body panel between the flange portion (26) and clinching element (3).