Fluid Line Coupling Radial Pivoting Retaining Wings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid line couplings require complex disassembly procedures and specialized tools, making them difficult to handle and manufacture, especially under challenging conditions, and lack simplicity in securing and verifying proper insertion of plug-in parts.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of an actuating structure that allows pivoting of retaining wings in the radial direction, enabling easy disassembly of inserted parts and simplifying the securing mechanism, which includes a U-shaped securing part with flexible cover sections and radially pivoting retaining wings for secure engagement and easy release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a complex fixing arrangement with multiple securing parts and locking mechanisms is used, then the reliability of securing the plug-in part is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of disassembly increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring reliabilityVSAvoidfixing arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing arrangement is divided into functionally independent components: the securing part with securing arms for initial engagement, the retaining part with retaining wings for final securing, and the actuating structure for controlled operation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall disassembly process, as each segment can be operated independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The securing arms and retaining wings are designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing them to move between different positions (engaged/disengaged states). The actuating structure enables controlled pivoting and movement of these components, transforming a static complex mechanism into a dynamic system that can be easily operated and disassembled when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If a specialized disassembly tool is required, then the precision of disassembly is improved, but the ease of operation and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly precisionVSAvoiddisassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating structure is designed to be operated directly by hand or with simple tools, allowing the fixing arrangement to be disassembled without requiring specialized equipment. The retaining wings can be manually pivoted and the securing arms released, enabling the system to serve itself in the disassembly process and eliminating the need for complex specialized tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The actuating structure serves as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the securing components. Instead of requiring direct manipulation of the securing arms and retaining wings, the actuating structure mediates the disassembly process by coordinating their movement, thereby simplifying operator interaction while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If multiple retaining wings and securing arms are used, then the secure engagement of the plug-in part is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengagement securityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The securing part and retaining part are designed to be manufactured as integrated components where possible, reducing the total number of separate parts. The securing arms and retaining wings are configured to work together as a coordinated system, allowing for simplified manufacturing processes while maintaining the security of engagement through their cooperative function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Facilitates easy and secure assembly and disassembly of fluid line couplings without specialized tools, ensuring proper alignment and secure connection under various conditions, while allowing for easy handling and manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

The retaining part (17) is designed with two retaining wings (22, 23), which can be pivoted radially inward and outward

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The securing part (16) can be inserted into the receiving space (4), can be moved at right angles to an insertion direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2013525B1Fluid line coupling
Publication Date: 2010.12.08 A RAYMOND & CO SCS
  • EP2013525B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2013525B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2013525B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a fluid line coupling and comprises a receiving part (1) as well as a fixing assembly (15) for the fixation of an insertion part (10). The fixing assembly has a retaining part (17) which is, in a steady state, located in the receiving space (4) of the receiving part (1) and is equipped with pivotable support wings (22, 23) engaging behind the existing front coil (14) which is located on the insertion part (10). Said fixing assembly also features a locking element (16) which is movably connected to the retaining part (17) and has, along with the receiving part (1), elements of a blocking assembly which impede the movement of the locking element (16) from an extended to a retracted position, if the insertion part (10) is not positioned accordingly. Thus, an easily attainable and stable fixation of the insertion part (10) in the receiving part (1) is achieved.