Plug-Type Connector Retaining Clip for Secure Hose Line Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-type connectors for hose and pipe connections lack secure locking mechanisms, allowing for accidental release and incomplete plugging, as the retaining clip can be easily opened or jammed, leading to unreliable connections.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped retaining clip with two pairs of diametrically opposite latching arms, each separated by a slot, provides a positive locking mechanism in both pre-assembly and assembly positions, ensuring the clip is captive and preventing tilting or jamming, with inclined surfaces guiding the plug part for secure latching and preventing accidental disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a resiliently elastic ring retaining clip is used, then the retaining clip can be easily opened for disassembly, but the connection becomes unreliable and prone to accidental release
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip is segmented into two pairs of latching arms separated by slots, allowing independent control of pre-assembly and assembly positions. This segmentation enables the clip to be captured in the coupling part while maintaining reliable locking, resolving the contradiction between ease of disassembly and connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The resiliently elastic latching arms provide dynamic response to insertion forces, automatically adjusting to secure the plug part. The elasticity allows the clip to transition between pre-assembly and assembly positions while maintaining reliable connection when fully inserted, balancing ease of operation with connection security.
2Ease of operation
If the retaining clip is made resiliently elastic, then the plug part can be inserted, but the clip cannot be locked in retaining position and may be accidentally opened
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip is pre-assembled in a pre-assembly position on the coupling part before the plug part is inserted. This preliminary positioning ensures the clip is correctly oriented and captured, preventing accidental opening while allowing smooth insertion of the plug part into the receiving opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The resiliently elastic latching arms provide tactile and mechanical feedback during insertion, indicating when the plug part is correctly positioned. The elastic deformation and recovery of the arms confirm proper engagement, enhancing locking security while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If actuating levers are provided on the spring arms, then the ring can be moved into insertion position, but the system cannot ensure complete plugging and correct blocking
Solution Approach 1:
The manual actuating lever mechanism is replaced with an automatic resiliently elastic latching arm system. The elastic arms automatically respond to insertion forces and engage the plug part's collar, eliminating the need for manual positioning while ensuring complete plugging and correct blocking through mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining clip's resiliently elastic latching arms perform the positioning and locking functions automatically during insertion. The system serves itself by using the insertion force to deform and reposition the arms, which then automatically lock the plug part in the correct position, ensuring complete plugging without manual intervention.
4Ease of operation
If the retaining clip is designed to be easily opened, then disassembly is simple, but the clip may be tilted or jammed during plugging
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip is divided into two pairs of latching arms separated by slots, which prevents tilting and jamming during assembly. Each pair of arms can move independently, ensuring smooth insertion while maintaining ease of disassembly through the resiliently elastic material.
Solution Approach 2:
The resiliently elastic material allows the latching arms to change their physical parameters (shape, position) in response to insertion forces. This parameter change enables the arms to accommodate minor misalignments and prevent jamming, while the material's properties ensure reliable locking and easy disassembly.
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 enhances assembly and disassembly safety by ensuring the retaining clip is securely locked in place, preventing accidental release and ensuring complete plugging, thus providing a reliable and secure connection under various load conditions, including high temperatures and pressures.
Implementation Method 1
a radially slotted retaining clip, which is resiliently elastic at least in portions
Data Source
AI summary
A plug-type connector for media lines having a coupling part into which a plug part can be inserted. The plug part can be retainingly engaged in the coupling part by a retaining clip that has at least two pairs of spring arms. The clip can be premounted on the coupling part by latching of the spring arms. The clip is U-shaped wherein legs of the U-shape form the two pairs of spring arms, which pairs are arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction and are separated by a slot and are elastic in the radial and axial directions. The first pair of the spring arms interlockingly blocks the plug part against being pulling out of the coupling part, and the second pair of spring arms holds the retaining clip captively in the coupling part in pre-assembly and assembly positions.