Quick-Connect Coupling Assembly With Separate Holder and Retainer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connect couplings for fluids are complex to assemble, require many small parts, and are costly to manufacture, while also being difficult to adapt to different sizes and compatibility with existing nipples.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design featuring a main body with a cylindrical opening, a separate holder for locking elements, a retaining element, and an elastic element, which are independent parts that simplify assembly and manufacturing, allowing for easy adaptation to various sizes and compatibility with existing nipples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional quick connect couplings use multiple small parts for secure connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate parts (holder, locking elements, retaining element) into a single integrated coupling body. The locking elements are formed as integral parts of the coupling body itself, eliminating the need for separate holders and retaining mechanisms. This merging reduces the number of parts while maintaining the secure connection function through the spring-loaded locking elements that automatically engage with the nipple.
2Reliability
If traditional couplings use complex assembly structures for secure locking, then connection security is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling body is segmented into functional zones: the spring-loaded locking elements are separated from the main body as distinct features, allowing them to be formed independently through injection molding. The locking elements have standardized geometries with grooves and protrusions that can be manufactured using standard mold inserts, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining secure locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses elastic deformation of the spring-loaded locking elements as a key parameter change. The locking elements are designed with specific elastic properties that allow them to flex during assembly and then maintain a locked state. This elastic parameter change enables secure locking through a simple molding process without complex assembly steps.
3Reliability
If couplings are designed for specific sizes and configurations, then connection reliability is improved, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling body is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different nipple sizes and configurations. The spring-loaded locking elements are standardized features that can engage with various nipple geometries. The coupling body includes a through-opening that can accept different nipple diameters, and the locking mechanism is sized to work with a range of nipple dimensions, providing multi-functionality across different applications.
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 design results in a coupling that is inexpensive, easy to manufacture, robust, and easy to assemble, while ensuring secure connections and disconnections, and can be scaled for different applications.
Implementation Method 1
The holder 130 may comprise a separate elastic element 132 urging each locking element 140 inwardly
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling for a nipple is disclosed. The coupling comprises a main body (100); and an opening (110), for a fluid, in the main body (100), the opening (110) being cylindrical. The coupling comprises further a holder (130) arranged in the opening (110) holding a plurality of locking elements (140) for locking the nipple to the coupling, the holder (130) and the plurality of locking elements (140) being separate; and a retaining element (150) retaining the holder (130) in the opening (110), the retaining element (150) engaging the plurality of locking elements (140). A method for assembling such a coupling is disclosed. The method comprises inserting the holder (130) with the locking means (140) into the main body (100); and retaining the holder (130) in the main body (100) with the retaining means (150).