Plug-In Coupling Extension Adapter for Gap Compensation Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in couplings cannot effectively bridge free spaces between components without deforming them, leading to aesthetic and structural issues due to the inability to compensate for tolerances and gaps, resulting in uncontrolled deformation and unaesthetic distortions during connection.
Innovation Solution
An extension adapter for plug-in couplings with a male and female coupling end and a locking element that prevents release of the male coupling element from the female coupling end, allowing for a locked connection that compensates for free spaces while maintaining component integrity and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a male coupling element and a female coupling element are used to connect two components, then the components can be connected together, but free spaces or gaps between the components cannot be compensated for, leading to deformation of the components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension adapter as an intermediary component between the male and female coupling elements. This adapter includes a male coupling end that connects to the female coupling element and a female coupling end that receives the male coupling element, thereby bridging the gap between components without forcing them to deform to each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into multiple parts: the original male coupling element, the extension adapter (which itself has male and female coupling ends), and the female coupling element. This segmentation allows each component to maintain its proper shape while collectively spanning the free space between components.
2Ease of operation
If the coupling elements are forced into connection to bridge free spaces, then the components can be connected, but the components deform in an uncontrolled and unaesthetic manner
Solution Approach 1:
The extension adapter serves as a mediator that absorbs the dimensional mismatch between components. By inserting this intermediate piece, the connection can be made without forcing the main components to deform, thus maintaining their aesthetic appearance while enabling easy assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension adapter acts as a pre-prepared cushioning element that compensates for free spaces before the final connection is made. This prevents the need for forced assembly that would cause uncontrolled deformation.
3Reliability
If the male coupling element is locked in the female coupling element, then the connection becomes secure, but the coupling elements cannot be disassembled for repositioning or adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be movable between a locked position (where it prevents release of the male coupling element) and an unlocked position (where it allows disassembly). This dynamic design enables the connection to be both secure during use and adjustable when needed, providing versatility without compromising reliability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the locking element is designed to prevent release of the male coupling element, then the connection becomes stable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be manually operable by the user without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms. The user can simply move the locking element between locked and unlocked positions to secure or release the connection, making the system self-servicing and avoiding unnecessary complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An extension adapter of a plug-in coupling, with which a free space between a male coupling element and a female coupling element can be bridged in a connecting manner and which comprises the following features: a male coupling end which can be inserted into the female coupling element, a female coupling end in which the male coupling element can be received and which is connected to the male coupling end via an intermediate piece, and a locking element which is displaceably arranged in the axial direction of the extension adapter and with which, in a locking position surrounding the female coupling end, the release of a male coupling element from the female coupling end is prevented.