Fluid Connector Lock Indicator With Split Elastic Legs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluidic connection devices compromise on indicator functions due to the limited elastic deformation capacity of their legs, which affects the reliability of connection and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of independent pairs of legs with different elastic deformation capacities allows for adjustable resistance and displacement, enhancing the functionality of the locking indicator and ensuring correct positioning and blocking of the male connector within the female connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single pair of legs is used for the indicator, then the structure is simple, but the elastic deformation capacity is limited and cannot simultaneously ensure reliable connection indication and locking functions
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator is divided into two independent pairs of legs: a first pair that cooperates with the male connector to indicate connection status, and a second pair that cooperates with the lock to enable locking function. This segmentation allows each pair to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between reliability and structural simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If the legs have high elastic deformation capacity, then the indicator can move freely for locking function, but the connection positioning precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The first pair of legs is designed with specific elastic deformation characteristics optimized for detecting connector insertion, while the second pair is designed with different characteristics optimized for enabling lock movement. Each pair has locally optimized properties for its specific function, allowing precise connection detection without compromising locking operation ease.
3Manufacturing precision
If the legs are made rigid, then the connection positioning is precise, but the locking indicator cannot be moved for releasing the lock
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the indicator into two independent leg pairs with different mechanical properties, the system achieves both rigid precision for connection detection and flexible movement for locking operation. The first pair maintains positioning precision while the second pair provides the necessary elasticity for lock release.
4Reliability
If the elastic deformation capacity is increased, then the locking function is enhanced, but the resistance to displacement becomes too high for proper indicator movement
Solution Approach 1:
The second pair of legs is designed with localized elastic properties that provide sufficient deformation capacity for reliable locking while maintaining appropriate displacement resistance for controlled indicator movement. The local optimization of material properties and geometry achieves the balance between locking reliability and operational controllability.
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
This solution improves the reliability of the fluidic connection by allowing independent adjustment of the elastic deformation capacity, ensuring secure engagement and disengagement of the connectors, and providing a visual indicator for correct positioning.
Implementation Method 1
a generally U-shaped lock carried by the female connector and comprising a pair of elastically deformable legs, these legs being arranged substantially in a first plane perpendicular to the axis A and on either side of the axis and being configured to cooperate by elastic snap-fitting with the male connector so as to ensure retention of the male connector in the female connector along the axis A
Implementation Method 2
During this insertion, the ridge of the male connector bears onto the front of the legs and displaces them from one another by elastic deformation
Implementation Method 3
By elastic return, the legs return to a position, less or not constrained, wherein they extend behind the ridge and block a removal of the male connector from the female connector by translation along the axis A
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic connection device for a fluid circuit of a motor vehicle includes a female fluidic connector, a U-shaped lock, and a locking indicator. The female fluidic connector includes a housing configured to receive a male fluidic connector, by translation along an axis (A). The U-shaped lock is carried by the female connector and includes a pair of elastically deformable legs that arranged substantially in a first plane, perpendicular to the axis (A) and on either side of the axis (A) and being configured to cooperate by elastic snap-fitting with the male connector to ensure retention of the male connector in the female connector along the axis (A). The locking indicator is carried by the female connector and configured to be translated in a second plane, perpendicular to the axis (A), between a first position for releasing the locking indicator and a second position for locking the locking indicator.