Fluid Line Coupling Locking Mechanism for Correct Connection Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing couplings for fluid lines often fail to provide a reliable and secure connection, as frictional effects can lead to incorrect connections that may not withstand use.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design that utilizes a security element and holding elements to ensure correct alignment and connection of fluid lines, preventing shifting from the release position to the locking position without proper alignment, and allowing for easy identification of correct connection through the position of the security element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coupling uses friction effects on sealing elements to indicate connection, then the connection appears to be properly established, but the connection may be incorrect and can become detached during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a securing element as an intermediary component that mediates between the male and female coupling elements. This securing element provides a clear, unambiguous indication of correct connection through its position, eliminating the unreliable friction-based indication. The securing element acts as a mediator that translates the complex friction effects into a simple, reliable positional indicator.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses positional changes of the securing element (analogous to color changes in visual indicators) to indicate connection status. The securing element has distinct positions (engaged/disengaged) that are clearly visible and provide unambiguous information about whether the coupling is correctly connected, replacing the ambiguous friction-based indication.
2Ease of operation
If a coupling allows the securing element to shift freely, then assembly is easy, but it cannot prevent incorrect connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic characteristics of the securing element that allow it to shift freely during correct assembly operations, yet prevents shifting under incorrect connection conditions. The securing element is designed to be movable during proper insertion but becomes locked in position when correct alignment is achieved, providing both ease of operation and connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling design incorporates asymmetric features where the securing element can move in one direction (during assembly) but is constrained in the opposite direction (preventing disengagement of correct connections). The male and female coupling elements have asymmetric geometries that allow free shifting during insertion but prevent incorrect connections through directional constraints.
3Reliability
If a coupling requires tool assistance to displace the securing element, then connection security is enhanced, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element is designed to automatically engage and lock into position without requiring tool assistance during the connection process. The coupling mechanism itself provides the necessary forces to displace and secure the locking element, making the system self-servicing during normal operation while maintaining high connection security.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling (10), comprising a receiving element (12), a securing element (14), a retaining element (16) and an insertion element (18), wherein the securing element (14) is designed such that it can be shifted along a shifting axis (Y) between a release position and a locking position, wherein the securing element (14) is designed to be engaged with the at least one retaining element (16) in such a way that a shifting of the securing element (14) out of the release position in the direction of the locking position is prevented, wherein, when introducing the insertion element (18) into the receiving space (22) of the receiving element (12), the insertion element (18) is designed to interact with the at least one retaining element (16) in such a way that a shifting of the securing element (14) out of the release position into the locking position is permitted.