Three-Piece Conduit Quick Connector With Locking Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose/duct connector systems for air induction systems in automotive engines require custom machinery, trained personnel, and additional tools for assembly, leading to increased complexity, costs, and potential misconnections, which can result in noise issues and customer perception problems.
Innovation Solution
A three-piece quick connector system comprising cylindrical pieces with radial slots and latching slots, providing a locking mechanism and feedback system that allows for easy assembly without special tools or machines, ensuring proper connection with audible and tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom machinery is used to assemble plug connectors to conduits, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design enables self-alignment and self-assembly through complementary geometric features (protrusions matching slots, angled engagement surfaces). The components guide themselves into proper alignment during assembly, eliminating the need for complex positioning machinery and trained operators while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate modular components (first connector, second connector, seal element) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for simple, cost-effective manufacturing of each part while enabling reliable assembly through the designed interface features without requiring complex integrated machinery.
2Adaptability or versatility
If clamps are used to connect conduits, then connection flexibility is improved, but assembly complexity and tool requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clampless connector design uses self-latching geometric features where protrusions on one connector engage with slots on the other connector. This self-latching mechanism provides secure connection without requiring external clamps, fastening tools, or complex assembly procedures, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection flexibility.
3Reliability
If traditional connectors are used, then connection security is improved, but assembly time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components are pre-designed with precisely positioned protrusions and slots that automatically align during assembly. The angled engagement surfaces and geometric constraints are built-in beforehand, allowing operators to simply push the connectors together without requiring complex alignment procedures, thereby reducing assembly time while ensuring secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates positive engagement feedback through audible clicks or tactile sensation when protrusions engage with slots. This immediate feedback confirms proper connection to the operator, eliminating the need for complex verification procedures or tools, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining connection security.
4Strength
If rigid connector components are used, then structural strength is improved, but sealing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system uses different material properties in different locations: rigid components for structural strength and sealing elements made of flexible material for sealing capability. The seal element is positioned at the interface between connectors and deforms to conform to surface irregularities, providing effective sealing while the rigid connectors maintain structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and system are provided for a quick connector for coupling conduits. The quick connector comprises a first piece including a radial slot and a first protrusion group, a second piece including a first slot group and a second slot group angled in a same direction, the first slot group is counterpart to the first protrusion group, and a third piece including a second protrusion group counterpart to the second slot group, where each slot of the first slot group faces a first side, and each slot of the second slot group faces an opposing, second side. In one example, the quick connector may include a locking mechanism and a feedback system.