Fluid Connector Clip Verification Using Conductive Plates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a connection verifier to ensure secure fluid connections in automotive systems, as incomplete connections can lead to fluid leaks and other serious consequences, particularly in applications where fluid must travel between components like the transmission and transmission oil cooler.
Innovation Solution
A connection verifier system comprising a housing with a circuit board, plates, and a retainer clip, where the circuit board sends a voltage through the plates to verify the secure connection of a tube endform in a quick connector assembly, using a retainer clip with protrusions that extend into a through-bore, and a transponder to indicate the connection status via wireless transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a retainer clip is used to secure the tube endform in the fluid connector, then the connection strength is improved, but it becomes difficult to detect and measure whether the connection is complete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical retention system with an electrical detection system. Conductive plates are positioned to contact the retainer clip, and a circuit board detects electrical continuity to determine if the retainer clip has properly engaged the tube endform. This substitution allows non-intrusive verification of the mechanical connection status without adding physical measurement components to the connection interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrical intermediary (conductive plates and circuit board) to mediate between the mechanical retainer clip and the detection system. The conductive plates serve as intermediaries that convert the mechanical position of the retainer clip into an electrical signal, enabling remote detection of connection status without direct mechanical measurement.
2Loss of information
If wireless transmission of connection status is implemented, then the information feedback capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board serves multiple functions: it detects the electrical continuity to determine connection status, processes the detection signal, and controls the wireless transmission of the status information. By consolidating detection, processing, and communication functions in a single component, the patent reduces overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive information feedback capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects the connection status and transmits the information wirelessly without requiring external intervention. The connection verifier assembly performs self-verification and self-reporting, eliminating the need for manual inspection or additional external monitoring equipment.
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 system effectively verifies the secure connection of fluid connectors, preventing leaks and ensuring reliable fluid transfer by detecting when the retainer clip has fully engaged the tube endform, and transmitting this information both on-site and remotely.
Implementation Method 1
the circuit board is arranged to send a voltage through one of the first plate and the second plate
Data Source
AI summary
A connection verifier, including a housing including a circuit board, a first plate connected to the circuit board, and a second plate connected to the circuit board, wherein the circuit board is arranged to send a voltage through one of the first plate and the second plate.