Female Connector Locking Structure for Tool-Free Corrosion Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-connect type connector assemblies face challenges in securely connecting and disconnecting pipelines without tools, particularly in ensuring a reliable locking mechanism that can withstand various environmental conditions, such as corrosive environments.
Innovation Solution
A female connector design featuring a cylindrical housing with a channel, a fastening member, and a resilient member that moves between blocking and unblocking positions, using a non-metallic material like plastic, to securely engage and disengage with a male connector, ensuring fluid communication and stability in corrosive environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is used to securely connect pipelines, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening member automatically moves between blocking and unblocking positions through spring-driven mechanisms. When the male connector is inserted, the fastening member self-actuates to transition from blocking (preventing insertion) to unblocking (allowing connection), eliminating the need for manual operation or complex external actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening member is designed as a dynamic component that can transition between different states (blocking and unblocking positions) rather than a static structure. This dynamic behavior allows the connector to adapt during the connection process, providing reliable locking when needed while maintaining simplicity through automated state changes.
2Reliability
If a blocking mechanism is used to prevent unauthorized disconnection, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides secure connection through self-actuating mechanisms that automatically transition between locked and unlocked states based on insertion depth and engagement conditions, eliminating the need for complex manual locking operations while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening member is pre-configured in a blocking position that prevents connection until the proper insertion sequence is followed. This preliminary blocking action ensures security while allowing easy operation once the correct insertion procedure is performed, as the system then automatically transitions to the connected state.
3Reliability
If non-metallic materials are used to resist corrosion, then durability in corrosive environments is improved, but mechanical strength may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly utilizes non-metallic materials (such as plastics or polymers) that provide both corrosion resistance and adequate mechanical strength for the application. These materials are selected to balance durability in corrosive environments with the structural requirements for secure connection and disconnection operations.
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 provides a reliable, tool-free connection and disconnection mechanism that maintains fluid communication while being suitable for use in corrosive environments, ensuring secure locking and ease of assembly/disassembly, with the non-metallic materials enhancing durability and resistance to corrosion.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member resiliently connected between the female connector housing and the fastening member, wherein the resilient member is configured to apply a restoring force to the fastening member
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a female connector having a female connector housing, a fastening member, and a resilient member. The female connector housing is provided with a slot at a portion thereof which receives a male connector, the slot forming at least one accommodating portion in a circumferential direction of the female connector housing. The fastening member is inserted into the slot and movable between a blocking position and an unblocking position. The resilient member is resiliently connected between the female connector housing and the fastening member, and the resilient member to apply a restoring force to the fastening member to move the fastening member towards the blocking position when the fastening member is in the unblocking position. The fastening member is provided with at least one blocking portion on an inner wall thereof, and the blocking portion cooperates with the accommodating portion to enable the blocking portion to at least partially move through the accommodating portion to enter a channel when the fastening member is in the blocking position, or exit the channel when the fastening member is in the unblocking position.