Fluid Connection Verification Ring for Full-Insertion Confirmation

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a fluid connection assembly with a verification device that allows for easy verification of the connection status to prevent fluid loss and component failure.

Innovation Solution

A verification assembly for a fluid connection assembly, comprising a retainer with a latch finger and a verification device with a ring portion, arms, and an indicator tab that provides a visual and/or electronic signal to confirm full connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a retaining mechanism is used to secure the tube to the connector body, then the connection reliability is improved, but there is no verification that the tube is fully inserted and secured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidconnection status information
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by providing visual indicators (colored bands, windows, or markers) that change appearance based on the connection status. When the tube is fully inserted and secured by the retaining mechanism, the indicator transitions to a visible state (e.g., colored band becomes visible through a window, or marker aligns with a reference), giving immediate feedback to the operator that the connection is complete and reliable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary verification component (such as a verification ring, indicator tab, or visual marker) that mediates between the retaining mechanism and the operator. This intermediary element provides tangible evidence of the connection status without interfering with the actual retaining function, allowing operators to verify proper installation without direct inspection of the retaining mechanism itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If no verification device is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but fluid loss and component failure may occur due to improper connection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection assembly complexityVSAvoidconnection security
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes color changes as a simple yet effective verification method. Colored bands, rings, or markers are positioned on the tube or connector such that their visibility or color state indicates connection status. For example, a colored band may be hidden before insertion and becomes visible when the tube is properly secured, or a color-coded indicator shows green for proper connection and red for improper connection, providing intuitive verification without adding complex mechanical systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs visual copies or representations of the connection status through indicators that replicate the state of the retaining mechanism engagement. Rather than requiring direct inspection of the mechanical connection, the system creates a visual copy (such as an aligned marker, visible ring, or color indicator) that represents the connection status, making verification simple and reliable without complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Ease of manufacture

If manual verification of connection status is required, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the time required for installation and verification increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning verification indicators and alignment features during manufacturing. The colored bands, rings, or markers are installed in specific positions on the tube or connector before assembly, and alignment pins or reference features are pre-configured. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid verification during installation without requiring complex verification tools or procedures, reducing installation time while maintaining simple manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12276363B2Verification device for a fluid connection assembly
Publication Date: 2025.04.15 OTIKER NJ INK
  • US12276363B2 patent drawing
  • US12276363B2 patent drawing
  • US12276363B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A verification assembly for a fluid connection assembly, including a retainer, including a first surface, a second surface, and at least one latch finger connected to and extending from the first surface, and a verification device, including a ring portion, at least one arm connected to and extending from the ring portion, and at least one indicator tab pivotably connected to the ring portion.