Demountable Fluid Connector Locking Ring for Compact Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connection devices in the automobile field, particularly in braking systems, are often bulky, difficult to remove, or require specialized tools, preventing easy disassembly and reuse.
Innovation Solution
A compact connection device featuring a tubular body with an elliptical annular groove and a locking ring with flexible lugs that deform to secure the tubular connector, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly using conventional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tubular connector with ring collar and additional retaining part is used, then the connection is secure, but the device becomes bulky and difficult to disassemble
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into distinct functional segments: the tubular connector with collar, the locking ring with flexible tabs, and the retaining part. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall compactness and ease of disassembly through the modular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring incorporates flexible tabs that can dynamically deform during connection and disassembly operations. These tabs flex outward to allow collar passage and inward to lock the connector, providing secure connection while enabling easy disassembly without special tools through controlled deformation.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with safety system is used, then the connection is reliable, but special disassembly tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-operating during both connection and disassembly. The flexible tabs automatically lock the connector in place through their deformation, and the same tabs can be manually actuated to release the lock, eliminating the need for special disassembly tools while maintaining reliable connection.
3Reliability
If a rigid locking structure is used, then the connection is secure, but the elements cannot be reused after disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring's flexible tabs utilize controlled elastic deformation as a key parameter change. During connection, the tabs deform to accommodate the collar and then spring back to lock securely. During disassembly, the same elastic property allows the tabs to be manually deformed to release the lock, enabling repeated use of all components without damage while maintaining secure connection during 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
Enables a compact, easily removable, and reusable fluid connection that maintains a sealed connection between equipment and tubular connectors, facilitating efficient maintenance and operation.
Implementation Method 1
the two flexible tabs being able to deform and close on the tubular connector when the tubular connector is inserted longitudinally into the locking ring
Data Source
Figure 1a~2a
Figure 2b~3a
Figure 3b~4a
AI summary
The invention relates to a connection device (100) of a tubular connector (1) provided with an annular collar (10) to an item of equipment (2) comprising a passage (20), the connection device (100) comprising: - a connecting end fitting (3) to the passage (20) of the item of equipment (2), the connection end fitting (3) being formed by a tubular body (30) with a head (31) mounted thereon, said head being provided with a through-opening and comprising an ellipsoidal annular groove (33); - a locking ring (4) having at least two longitudinal flexible legs (41) for insertion into the connection end fitting (3), each having an outer surface bearing at least one lug (42) intended to engage in the annular groove (33) in order to hold the locking ring (4) secured to the connection end fitting (3). The two flexible legs (41) can be deformed and closed on the tubular connector (1) in order to abut their free ends against the collar (10) when the male connector (1) is inserted longitudinally into the locking ring (4).