Quick Connector Clip Prestressing for Low-Force Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connection systems for fluid circulation, particularly in motor vehicle applications, require significant operator effort for assembly and lack ergonomic design, as the operator must manually spread the clip branches during insertion, leading to potential complexity and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical quick connection system incorporating a removable prestressing insert that preconditions the clip, allowing it to automatically transition from a prestressed configuration to a rest configuration during insertion, reducing the operator's assembly effort and maintaining audible locking confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator manually spreads the clip branches during insertion, then the connection can be assembled, but the assembly effort and ergonomic burden increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-spreading the clip branches to a predetermined spacing before assembly. The clip is delivered in a pre-conditioned state where the branches are already separated to the required distance, eliminating the need for the operator to exert force during assembly. This pre-preparation resolves the contradiction by reducing assembly effort while maintaining the necessary force characteristics for proper engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the clip from its rest state to a pre-spaced configuration before assembly. By altering the spatial parameter (branch spacing) in advance, the system enables easy assembly without requiring the operator to apply significant force during the connection process, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and force requirement.
2Force
If a tool is used to act on the clip during assembly, then the pushing force is reduced, but the assembly operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a tool during assembly, the patent applies preliminary action by pre-spreading the clip branches before the assembly operation. This eliminates the need for additional tools or complex procedures during connection, reducing both force requirements and operational complexity simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip is prepared in advance to perform its function without external assistance during assembly. The pre-spaced configuration enables the clip to engage automatically during insertion without requiring tool intervention, thereby simplifying the assembly operation while reducing force requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the clip branches are pre-spaced, then the assembly effort is reduced, but the clip configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-spacing the clip branches to a predetermined configuration before assembly. This pre-conditioning reduces assembly effort during connection while accepting a more complex initial clip shape, resolving the contradiction by prioritizing ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip transitions from a static rest configuration to a dynamic pre-spaced configuration that enables easier assembly. The predetermined spacing creates a more complex shape that facilitates smooth engagement during insertion, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and geometric 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
The system significantly reduces the assembly effort required for inserting and nesting the connection ends while preserving the audible locking confirmation, allowing for easier and more efficient assembly without additional handling steps, and can be pre-assembled for delivery, simplifying the process.
Implementation Method 1
the branches of the clip are separated (elastic deformation) by the thrust exerted by the male end on said branches, then they return to the rest position in the groove of the male end
Implementation Method 2
a prestressing insert, in order to force the clip into a prestressing configuration, in which the spacing between the branches is forced beyond the spacing at rest
Data Source
Figure 1A~5
Figure 2A~4C
Figure 3A~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to a quick connection system (1) between a female end (2) provided with a U-shaped locking clip (3) and a male end (4) intended to fit into the female end (2), the wall of the female end (2) having opposing slots (2') through which the arms (3', 3") of the U protrude into the passage of said end (2) and the wall of the male end (4) having an external groove (4') adapted to receive with locking said arms (3', 3") of the clip (3) in a final fit of the male end (4) into the female end (2), locked by said clip (3).Quick connection system (1) characterized in that it further comprises an added part (6) forming a removable prestressing element for the clip (3) and comprising housing sites suitable and intended to cooperate by engagement with the two free strands (5, 5') in a first configuration corresponding to the rest configuration of the clip (3) and in at least a second prestressing configuration of the clip (3) in which the arms (3', 3") of the U are further apart than in the rest configuration but less apart than when passing through the maximum external section of the male end (4).