Connection Assembly Segmentation for Sleeve Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection arrangements for fluid lines in vehicles are prone to operational unreliability, particularly during maintenance or repair, as the outer sleeve can easily slip off and get lost due to lack of secure locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A connection arrangement where the inner sleeve is designed as a separate element with locking means interacting with the outer sleeve, forming a preassembled subassembly that remains secured on the pipe, and latching mechanisms ensure leak-free fluid routing, with components like hollow cylinders and sealing sleeves enhancing robustness and leakproofness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the outer sleeve is pushed onto the pipe and then the pipe is pushed onto a connecting piece, then the connection arrangement can be assembled, but the outer sleeve can easily slip off and get lost during maintenance or repair work
Solution Approach 1:
The connection arrangement is divided into distinct segments: the inner sleeve with locking means that engages with the pipe, and the outer sleeve that provides additional protection. The locking means includes a projection that engages with a groove in the pipe, creating a segmented structure where each part has a specific function. This segmentation allows the inner sleeve to remain securely on the pipe while the outer sleeve can be easily removed for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner sleeve is pre-assembled with locking means (projection and groove engagement) before the outer sleeve is installed. This preliminary action ensures that the critical locking function is already in place, preventing the outer sleeve from slipping off during subsequent handling or maintenance operations.
2Reliability
If the outer sleeve is frictionally held on the inner sleeve using the elasticity of its material, then the connection can be maintained, but the outer sleeve can still slip off during disconnection and reconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means acts as an intermediary mechanism between the inner sleeve and the pipe. The projection on the inner sleeve engages with the groove in the pipe, creating a positive mechanical lock that prevents slippage. This intermediary locking mechanism is simpler and more reliable than relying solely on frictional holding through material elasticity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the inner sleeve is designed separately from the connecting piece, then the outer sleeve can form a preassembled subassembly that remains on the pipe, but additional locking means are required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means (projection and groove) are merged into the inner sleeve design, combining the functions of connection and locking in a single component. This integration allows the inner sleeve to form a preassembled subassembly with the pipe while maintaining structural simplicity, avoiding the need for separate locking components.
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 significantly improves operational reliability by preventing loss of components and ensuring secure connections, maintaining leakproofness and ease of assembly/disassembly, while being cost-effective and resistant to mechanical loads.
Implementation Method 1
the projection can be adjusted radially outwards into an expanded position that allows the tube to be inserted. Once the tube has reached a position with its circumferential groove opposite the projection, the projection can return to its relaxed, radially inner position, engaging the circumferential groove of the tube
Implementation Method 2
a sealing sleeve can advantageously be provided between the essentially hollow-cylindrical section of the connection piece and the pipe
Implementation Method 3
locking means which interact with the inner sleeve and/or the outer sleeve are provided, which the annular shoulder of the Grip behind the connector on the side facing away from the pipe
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The joint assembly (10) has a corrugated tube (20) having a circumferential groove (24) formed in the outer surface, and a fitting (30) having a hollow cylindrical portion (32) in which the tube is introduced. An inner sleeve (40) has a radially inwardly extending projection which is inserted into the groove. An outer sleeve (50) is separately formed around the tube or connecting piece. The inner sleeve and/or the outer sleeve interact with a latching unit (60) through an annular shoulder (36) which is engaged behind the side of connecting piece or the tube.