Fluid Line Coupling Locking Mechanism for Narrow Space Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling parts for fluid line couplings face challenges in reliably releasing the connection between the plug-in part and the coupling part, especially in narrow spaces, due to the complexity of bending locking arms to release the engagement between the locking structure and the locking projection.
Innovation Solution
The coupling part separates the 'insert locking' function and 'locking control' function, allowing the control element to remain in a second control position after initial locking, enabling independent release of the plug-in part without actuating the control element, using a control element that can be displaced in a control element receptacle and a locking element with spring arms that can be bent to release the engagement between the locking lugs and the annular shoulder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking arms are made flexible to allow release by bending, then the connection can be released, but the operation becomes complex and impossible in narrow spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two independent functional parts: locking lugs that engage the annular shoulder for securing the plug-in part, and locking arms with engagement structures that interact with a locking projection for control. This segmentation allows the locking and release functions to be decoupled, enabling simple release operation without complex manipulation of the entire locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking projection is introduced as an intermediary element that mediates between the locking arms and the plug-in part. The engagement structures on the locking arms interact with this locking projection to control the locking state, providing a simple interface for release operation without requiring direct manipulation of the locking arms themselves.
2Ease of operation
If the locking arms are bent to release the engagement, then the connection is released, but reliable control of proper locking is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement structures on the locking arms provide tactile feedback when interacting with the locking projection. When the locking arms are in the engaged position, the engagement structures are positioned to engage the locking projection, providing clear feedback that the locking is proper. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable control without requiring complex manipulation for release.
3Device complexity
If a single locking mechanism is used for both insertion locking and control, then the structure is simple, but the release operation becomes complex in narrow spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two independent functional parts: locking lugs that engage the annular shoulder for securing the plug-in part, and locking arms with engagement structures that interact with a locking projection for control. This segmentation allows the locking and release functions to be decoupled, enabling simple release operation without complex manipulation of the entire locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is extracted from the main locking structure by introducing separate locking arms with engagement structures that interact with a locking projection. This extraction allows the release operation to be controlled independently from the locking lugs, simplifying the release operation while maintaining the integrity of the locking mechanism.
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 design allows for simple and reliable release of the connection between the plug-in part and the coupling part, ensuring proper locking and easy disengagement without requiring complex manipulation of the locking arms, even in restricted spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element is designed as a ring-shaped closed spring element
Implementation Method 2
spring arms that can be bent to release the engagement between the locking lugs and the annular shoulder
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In a coupling part (1) for a fluid line coupling, there are a locking element for locking an insert part which is to be introduced into the coupling part (1), and a monitoring element (8) for monitoring correct locking of the insert part. The monitoring element (8) is equipped with axially flexurable spring arms (11, 12) which have an engagement structure (14, 15), which is set up for engagement with a latching structure (15), and, in a first monitoring position, block a transfer of the monitoring element (8) into a second monitoring position without correct locking of the insert part. After the second monitoring position has been assumed, by actuation by the insert part of an actuating structure which is formed on each spring arm (11, 12), the monitoring element (8) is out of engagement with the insert part, with the result that, by actuation of the locking element (5), the insert part can also be removed from the coupling part in the second monitoring position of the monitoring part (8).