Tool-Free Fluid Connector Locking for Leak-Proof Tube Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connectors require complex assembly processes, often involving multiple parts and tools, and can leak due to misalignment or improper engagement, especially when connecting non-square tube ends, necessitating modifications and special tools, and may not provide immediate visual verification of correct connection.
Innovation Solution
A tubular connector system featuring a sleeve, collet, grab ring, and locking ring with barbed connectors that allow for easy assembly without tools, provide a visual confirmation of correct connection, and form a leak-proof seal by moving from a leaky to a sealed position based on engagement, accommodating non-square tube ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional fluid connectors use multiple parts (locking rings, washers, threaded fasteners) to secure connections, then the connection strength is sufficient to prevent water pressure from pushing tubes off, but the assembly process becomes complex and parts may be dropped or arranged in wrong orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (locking ring, washer, threaded fastener) into a single integrated connector body. The connector includes an integrated sealing surface, locking mechanism, and mounting features all in one piece, eliminating the need to manually assemble multiple parts and reducing the risk of parts being dropped or misaligned during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with distinct functional zones: a sealing surface for fluid-tight connection, a locking mechanism with teeth and cam action for secure attachment, and integrated mounting features. This segmentation of functions within a single component maintains connection strength while simplifying assembly.
2Reliability
If traditional connectors require manual arrangement of multiple parts in sequence, then the connection can be made, but the installation time increases and parts may be inevitably dropped at inconvenient times
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-assembled as a single integrated unit with all sealing surfaces, locking mechanisms, and mounting features already in place. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for on-site manual arrangement of multiple parts, reducing installation time and preventing parts from being dropped during the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector design is self-contained, requiring no additional washers, locking rings, or fasteners to be manually installed. The single component serves all functions simultaneously, making the installation process faster and more reliable by eliminating manual part arrangement steps.
3Strength
If traditional connectors use permanent locking mechanisms to prevent tube separation under pressure, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the connectors cannot be easily removed or adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a cam-actuated release system that transitions from a locked state (teeth engaged with the tube) to an unlocked state (cam lever rotates to disengage teeth). This dynamic mechanism maintains strong permanent-like connection during normal use but allows easy removal when needed by actuating the release lever.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-actuated locking mechanism pre-positiones the teeth to engage with the tube, creating a strong permanent-like connection. The integrated release lever provides a predetermined method for reversing this engagement, allowing easy removal without requiring excessive force or special tools.
4Strength
If traditional connectors require tube ends to be flared or modified before connection, then the connection can be secured, but the process requires special tools and modifications to the fluid lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tube modification step (flaring) from the connection process. The connector uses a gripping mechanism with teeth that can directly engage with the original tube end without requiring flaring or other modifications, eliminating the need for special flaring tools and simplifying the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary between the tube and the connection system. Instead of requiring the tube to be modified (flared) to achieve connection, the connector provides its own gripping teeth and sealing surfaces that can directly engage with the original tube end, mediating the connection without tube modification.
5Reliability
If traditional connectors use O-ring seals on each tube to prevent fluid leakage, then the sealing function is provided, but the seals may not be properly aligned causing leaks during use
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates the sealing surface directly into the connector body, eliminating separate O-ring seals on each tube. The single integrated sealing surface is precisely positioned during manufacturing, ensuring proper alignment and preventing leaks without requiring complex seal installation and alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the separate O-ring seals from the connection system and replaces them with an integrated sealing surface on the connector body. This extraction of the sealing function from separate components eliminates alignment issues associated with installing multiple seals on different tubes.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for a fluid line includes a sleeve having a hollow portion at least partway therethrough. The sleeve includes an engaging portion. A collet having an engaging part is secured to the engaging portion. A grab part has one or more teeth configured to retain the fluid line, and the teeth are located in the hollow portion. A locking part is provided having a locking portion, and the locking part is configured to move from a first position to a second position where the locking portion locks with a locking piece to assist with forming a fluid seal with the fluid line.