Connector Locking Ring with Flexible Bar for Secure Bayonet Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connections often require complex assembly and additional locking elements to prevent unintentional loosening, making them difficult to assemble and disassemble.
Innovation Solution
A plug connection featuring a flexible locking ring with a locking bar that can be positioned by bending or rotating, engaging with diametrically opposite locking cams and radial grooves, allowing for automatic snapping into a locked position upon rotation, and featuring retaining tabs and a holding element to secure the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking ring with multiple locking elements is used to secure the bayonet connection, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring integrates multiple locking functions into a single component: the bayonet locking cams engage with locking grooves to prevent rotation, while the locking bar engages with the receiving groove to prevent axial displacement. This merging of multiple locking mechanisms into one ring eliminates the need for separate locking elements and simplifies the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides bayonet locking through diametrically opposite locking cams, prevents axial movement through the locking bar, and maintains constant radial contact force through spring preloading. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If additional locking elements like screws or separate locking rings are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex assembly and disassembly procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bar is pre-positioned on the locking ring in a retracted state that allows free insertion of the connection parts. During assembly, the locking bar automatically engages with the receiving groove when the connection parts are plugged together, eliminating the need for separate locking operations and simplifying the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically lock itself during the normal assembly process. When the connection parts are plugged together and rotated, the locking bar is forced into engagement with the receiving groove, and the spring automatically maintains constant contact force. No additional manual locking operations are required.
3Reliability
If a rigid locking ring is used to prevent unintentional loosening, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is designed with flexibility through the spring element that preloads the locking bar against the receiving groove. This dynamic design allows the locking bar to be pushed back during assembly for easy insertion, then automatically engages during normal operation to prevent unintentional loosening. The spring maintains constant contact force while allowing controlled movement during intentional disassembly.
4Reliability
If the locking ring requires attachment after plug-in connection assembly, then the connection reliability is improved, but the productivity deteriorates due to additional assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is pre-assembled onto the second connection part before the plug-in connection assembly. The locking bar is positioned in a retracted state that allows the connection parts to be plugged together without interference. After plugging, the locking bar automatically engages with the receiving groove, eliminating the need for separate locking operations and improving assembly efficiency.
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
Enables secure and easy assembly and disassembly of the plug connection by allowing the locking ring to be slipped onto the second connection part before assembly, with automatic fixation and easy release, preventing unintentional loosening.
Implementation Method 1
the locking ring has at least one locking bar on an underside for form-fitting engagement in a receiving groove of a first connection part and is flexible so that the locking bar can be moved between a lower locking position and a raised release position
Implementation Method 2
the locking ring has at least one locking bar on an underside for form-fitting engagement in a receiving groove of a first connection part
Implementation Method 3
the bayonet connection is formed by two locking cams arranged diametrically opposite one another on the outside of an insertion part of the second connection part and two associated radial locking grooves on the inside of a receiving opening of the first connection part
Implementation Method 4
When the second connection part is turned to lock after being inserted into the first connection part, the securing bar on the locking ring automatically snaps into the locking position and is fixed in this position by the retaining element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The connector has a connection part (1), and another connection part (2) connected with the former connection part in a detachable manner over locking cams (8) and locking grooves (9). A locking ring (3) axially supports the latter connection part opposite to the former connection part. The locking ring has a locking rod (22) that is lockable to the latter locking part in an inner side of the former locking part by a retaining element (10) in a locking condition. The locking rod is arranged at a lower side of the locking ring and made from plastic or metal sheet.