Plug-In Coupling Extension Adapter With Axial Locking for Gap Bridging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in couplings face challenges in compensating for free spaces between male and female coupling elements without deforming components or compromising aesthetics, as they often require forced installation that can distort the connected components.
Innovation Solution
An extension adapter for plug-in couplings with a locking element that securely connects the male and female coupling ends, allowing for adjustable alignment and preventing detachment, thereby bridging free spaces without deforming the components and maintaining aesthetic integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If existing plug-in couplings are used to bridge gaps between male and female coupling elements, then the gap can be bridged, but the components must be forced into installation which causes deformation and compromises aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The extension adapter incorporates an elastic element that can dynamically adjust its deformation state. During installation, the elastic element deforms to accommodate the gap between coupling elements, and during operation, it returns to its original state, preventing permanent deformation of connected components while maintaining aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the elastic properties of the adapter body, changing its physical state from a rigid structure to a flexible one during installation. The elastic element's ability to temporarily change its shape parameters allows it to bridge gaps without forcing components into deformed states, resolving the contradiction between gap bridging and component integrity.
2Manufacturing precision
If the extension adapter uses an elastic element to bridge gaps, then component deformation is prevented, but the coupling elements may detach due to lack of secure locking
Solution Approach 1:
The extension adapter is divided into distinct functional segments: a first coupling element for connection, a second coupling element for connection, and an elastic element for gap bridging. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the coupling elements provide secure locking while the elastic element maintains component integrity during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element acts as an intermediary between the two coupling elements. It mediates the connection by providing a flexible bridge that secures the coupling elements in place while preventing direct force transmission that could cause detachment, thus simultaneously ensuring coupling security and component integrity.
3Ease of operation
If the extension adapter is made entirely of elastic material, then it can easily bridge gaps, but it lacks the structural strength to provide secure locking
Solution Approach 1:
The extension adapter applies local quality by making only the gap-bridging portion (the elastic element) flexible, while the coupling elements maintain their rigid, strong structure. This localized elasticity allows easy installation for gap bridging while preserving the necessary locking strength at the connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is segmented into a rigid coupling element portion for strength and locking, and a flexible elastic element portion for easy gap bridging. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific function - the rigid parts provide locking strength while the flexible part provides installation ease.
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 extension adapter ensures a secure, adjustable connection that maintains the integrity of both components and aesthetics by locking the male coupling element in place, preventing simultaneous release of the plug-in coupling and extension adapter, thus avoiding deformation and ensuring easy disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
The extension adapter (1) comprises an elastic element that can be deformed elastically
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention describes an extension adapter of a plug-in coupling, with which a clearance between a male coupling element and a female coupling element can be bridged in a connecting manner and which has the following features: a male coupling end (10) which is insertable into the female coupling element, a female coupling end (20) in which the male coupling element can be accommodated and which is connected to the male coupling end via an intermediate piece, and a locking element (70) which is arranged so as to be movable in the axial direction of the extension adapter and with which, in a locking position surrounding the female coupling end, release of a male coupling element from the female coupling end is prevented.