Connection Verifier for Automotive Fluid Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a connection verifier to ensure secure fluid connections in automotive systems, as incomplete connections can lead to fluid leaks and other serious consequences, and existing technologies lack effective verification methods.
Innovation Solution
A connection verifier comprising a collar, a non-rotatably connected circuit board with terminals, a switch, and an indication device, which includes a radially outward facing surface, a radially inward facing surface, and a second groove with a pin extending in an axial direction to contact the terminal, and a microcontroller for transmitting signals to indicate a secure connection both on-site and remotely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fluid connector uses a retaining clip or snap ring to secure the tube end form, then the connection can be maintained, but there is no verification method to ensure the connection is secure
Solution Approach 1:
The connection verifier utilizes the existing mechanical components (retaining clip, snap ring, tube end form) to verify its own installation status. The verifier's switch contacts are designed to be engaged by these components themselves, eliminating the need for external verification mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection or complex mechanical verification systems with an electrical switching mechanism. When the tube end form is properly inserted, it mechanically actuates the switch contact, which then provides an electrical signal (via LED or wireless transmission) to indicate secure connection, substituting mechanical verification with an electrical indication system.
2Measurement precision
If manual inspection of fluid connections is performed, then connection status can be checked, but it is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated electrical switching system. The switch contact automatically detects whether the tube end form is properly inserted by being engaged by the retaining clip or snap ring, providing immediate and accurate feedback through LED indicators or wireless transmission, eliminating human error and saving time.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection verifier provides immediate feedback about connection status through multiple channels: visual feedback via LED indicators (green for secure, red for insecure) and wireless feedback transmitting connection status to remote devices. This real-time feedback system eliminates the delay and potential errors associated with manual inspection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless transmission capability is added to the connection verifier, then remote monitoring is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection verifier is designed with multi-functionality to justify the added complexity. It simultaneously provides local visual indication via LED, wireless transmission of connection status to remote devices, and potential integration with broader vehicle diagnostic systems. This multi-functional approach maximizes the utility of the additional electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a microcontroller as an intermediary component that manages the complexity of coordinating multiple functions. The microcontroller processes switch contact signals, controls LED indicators, and manages wireless transmission, thereby organizing the electronic subsystems and making the overall system more manageable despite increased complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection verifier, including a collar, a circuit board non-rotatably connected to the collar, the circuit board including at least one terminal, a switch rotatably connected to the collar and arranged to contact the at least one terminal, the switch including at least one finger extending in a first axial direction, and an indication device arranged to activate when the switch contacts the at least one terminal.