Quick-Connect Fluid Coupling With Selectable Angular Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-connect devices for fluid transfer, such as VDA connectors, have a predefined relative orientation of hoses and tubing that does not account for the constraints of the installation circuit, requiring multiple molds for different orientations, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A quick-connect device with a female socket connector and a lock-ring that allows for selection of relative positions during assembly using elastically expandable means to grip an outer annular shoulder, enabling immobilization in any desired angular position, thus eliminating the need for predefined orientations during manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the relative orientation of hoses and tubing is predefined during manufacturing, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the adaptability to various installation constraints is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a rotatable ring element that allows the relative orientation between the hose and tubing to be adjusted dynamically during assembly rather than being fixed during manufacturing. The ring can rotate to different angular positions and be locked in place, providing adaptability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate functional elements: a stationary body, a rotatable ring, and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows the ring to be independently rotated to the desired orientation before locking, enabling adaptability without complicating the overall manufacturing process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple molds are used to produce different orientations, then the adaptability to installation constraints is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single connector body with a rotatable ring serves multiple orientation functions that would otherwise require multiple specialized molds. The ring can be rotated to various angular positions (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) and locked in place, making one component perform the function of what would traditionally require four different molded parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The orientation parameter is changed during assembly through rotation of the ring rather than being fixed during manufacturing. This allows the same base component to achieve multiple orientations by changing the angular position parameter, eliminating the need for multiple molds.
3Manufacturing precision
If the connector uses a rigid fixed orientation structure, then the manufacturing precision is maintained, but the ease of operation during assembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a static fixed orientation to a dynamic adjustable orientation during assembly. The ring can be freely rotated to the desired position and then locked, providing both operational flexibility and precise positioning through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The desired orientation is established during assembly before final locking occurs. The operator can preliminarily position the ring at the correct angle, then secure it with the locking mechanism to maintain that precise orientation.
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 flexible selection of relative positions during assembly, reducing the need for multiple molds and improving adaptability to various installation constraints, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of fluid transfer connections.
Implementation Method 1
the mutual assembly means comprise an elastically expandable distal end portion of the ring connector adapted to be fitted around the female connector by elastic expansion and to grip on an outer annular shoulder
Data Source
AI summary
The quick-connect device for the assembly of first and second fluidic transport elements includes a female connector and a male lock-ring connector configured to cooperate with the female connector and to relatively immobilize axially and in rotation the first element with the female connector. The male connector and the female connector respectively include first and second complementary positioning members configured to define a plurality of predefined discrete positions of assembly of the two male and female connectors, distributed angularly around the main axis, such that in any one of these angular positions, the two connectors are immobilized in rotation relative to one another.