Fluid Connector Retainer Assembly for Low-Force Leak-Safe Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connectors require high insertion force for assembly, necessitate post-process machining, and are prone to improper installation, which can compromise their structural integrity and lead to refrigerant leakage.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection assembly featuring a retainer with radially outward and inward extending protrusions and a locking band that reduces insertion force, eliminates the need for post-process machining, and ensures a secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a retaining clip is used in traditional fluid connectors, then the connector can secure the tube, but the insertion force required is very large
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is divided into multiple fingers (typically 3-6 fingers) that are circumferentially spaced around the tube. Each finger independently engages with the tube, distributing the clamping force around the circumference. This segmentation allows the retainer to secure the tube effectively while requiring lower insertion force compared to a single solid retaining clip.
Solution Approach 2:
The fingers are designed with varying thicknesses and flexibilities along their length. The base portion is thicker and more rigid for structural support, while the tip portion is thinner and more flexible for engaging the tube. This local quality variation allows each finger to deform locally during insertion, reducing the overall insertion force while maintaining connection security.
2Reliability
If slots or apertures are machined in the connector body for the retaining clip, then the retaining clip can engage the tube, but post-process manufacturing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer fingers are integrally formed as a single piece with the connector body, eliminating the need for separate slots or apertures. The fingers extend through the connector body wall, and the retainer can be installed by simply deforming the fingers radially inward to pass through the tube and then allowing them to spring back into their engaged position. This merging of the retainer structure with the connector body eliminates post-process machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer fingers are pre-formed with a curved or C-shaped cross-section that allows them to be elastically deformed radially inward for installation. This preliminary shaping enables the fingers to be inserted through the tube and connector body wall without requiring pre-machined slots, and they automatically return to their engaged position after installation.
3Device complexity
If the retaining clip is very thin and small, then it can fit in the connector body, but it is easy to lose if dropped or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer fingers are integrally formed with the connector body as a single piece, eliminating the risk of the retainer becoming separated or lost during assembly or service. The fingers are permanently attached to the connector body, ensuring they remain in position and cannot be misplaced or dropped.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is designed as multiple fingers that are circumferentially spaced, providing redundancy. If one finger were to become damaged or dislodged, the other fingers would continue to provide retention. This segmented design enhances reliability while maintaining a compact structure that fits within the connector body.
4Reliability
If the retaining clip is installed improperly, then the structural integrity of the retaining clip is compromised, but proper installation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer fingers are pre-formed with a specific cross-sectional shape (curved or C-shaped) that allows them to be elastically deformed radially inward for installation. This preliminary shaping provides a clear installation path: deform the fingers inward, pass them through the tube and connector body wall, then release to allow spring-back into the engaged position. This eliminates ambiguous installation steps and ensures proper installation while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer fingers are designed to be self-installing through their elastic properties. When radially inward force is applied to deform the fingers, they automatically spring back to their engaged position after passing through the tube and connector body wall. This self-service mechanism ensures proper installation without requiring complex tooling or multiple adjustment steps, reducing the risk of improper installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for fluid, including a connector body, including a first end, a second end, and a first through-bore, a retainer removably connected to the connector body, the retainer including a ring portion forming a third end, the third end operatively arranged to be secured in the first through-bore, at least one first finger extending from the ring portion, the at least one first finger including a first radially outward extending protrusion and terminating at a fourth end, and at least one second finger extending from the ring portion, the at least one second finger including a second radially outward extending protrusion, and at least one radially inward extending protrusion arranged on at least one of the at least one first finger and the at least one second finger, and a locking band arranged circumferentially around the at least one first finger and the at least one second finger.