Deformable Ring Fluid Connector With Limit Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid pipe connection devices for motor vehicles require multiple parts and complex designs, leading to increased costs, material inefficiencies, and difficulties in maintenance, particularly due to the need for overmolding and precise angular orientations during assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A three-part connection device comprising a female connector, a deformable ring with movable parts, and a circular seal, where the ring is held by axial retaining means and can be easily assembled and disassembled without overmolding, allowing for simple connection and disconnection without requiring specific orientations, using limit stops to prevent excessive deformation and ensure secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a standard O-ring seal is used with a simple retaining ring, then the device complexity is reduced, but the seal cannot be securely retained during connection and disconnection operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the seal retaining function and the connection locking function into a single integrated ring component. The ring features an axial retention mechanism with hooks that engage with the female connector, while simultaneously providing radial compression to secure the O-ring seal against the male connector surface, eliminating the need for separate retention and locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it retains the seal axially through hooks, compresses the seal radially to create sealing pressure, and locks the connection through engagement with the female connector. This multi-functional design reduces part count while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If overmolding is used to attach the seal, then the seal is securely retained, but the manufacturing complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the seal retention function from the connector body by using a distinct ring component. Instead of overmolding the seal directly onto the connector, the seal is independently retained by the ring, which can be manufactured separately and assembled. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing while ensuring secure seal retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring acts as an intermediary component between the seal and the connector body. It provides the retention mechanism through hooks and compression features, eliminating the need for complex overmolding processes while ensuring reliable seal attachment.
3Ease of operation
If deformable zones are added to the ring for separation, then disconnection is simplified, but the structural integrity of the retention means is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The ring is designed with localized deformable zones specifically positioned to facilitate separation, while the retention hooks and locking features maintain their structural integrity. The deformable portions are strategically placed to allow controlled deformation during disconnection without compromising the strength of the retention means.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring incorporates dynamic deformation capabilities that allow it to flex and deform under compression forces during connection and disconnection operations. This dynamic behavior enables simplified separation while the ring returns to its original shape, maintaining structural integrity of the retention features.
4Ease of operation
If a deformable ring with movable parts is used, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but the risk of rupture during deformation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ring design incorporates predetermined deformation paths and stress distribution features that cushion and distribute deformation forces during assembly and disassembly. This prevents stress concentration that could lead to rupture, while still allowing the necessary flexibility for easy operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring material and geometry are designed to change physical parameters during deformation, allowing controlled flexing and movement during assembly/disassembly. The material properties and structural design ensure these parameter changes occur within safe limits that prevent rupture while enabling ease of operation.
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
This solution simplifies the connection process, reduces material usage, and enhances flexibility without risking rupture, while maintaining mechanical integrity, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly of fluid pipes to standard male connectors.
Implementation Method 1
the ring, made in the form of a piece at least partially deformable under the effect of a compression of the body of the said ring, having body parts movable in the direction of approximation during the deformation by compression of the said ring
Implementation Method 2
at least two limit stops preventing compression deformation of the ring beyond a predetermined value
Implementation Method 3
this ring being able to be maintained assembled by interlocking with the fittings by means of axial retaining means made in one piece with the body of the ring
Data Source
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AI summary
The device has a female connector (4) realized in the form of tubular part to be fitted with a male connector. A deformable elastic ring (11) is interposed between the connectors before axial fitting of the connectors. The elastic ring includes two movable body parts with a compression zone (18) and a projecting surface (18A) and moving in a connection direction during the deformation of the ring through compression. The female connector includes a stop (8) on a path along the movable parts so as to prevent the deformation of the ring beyond a predetermined value.