Fluid Line Coupling Assembly With Latch Status Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling elements for fluid-conducting lines lack a reliable and easy-to-produce method for establishing a fluid-tight connection between rigid and flexible lines, often resulting in insecure connections prone to accidental disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with a latching device featuring an elastically deformable ring and a latching projection that engages a circumferential latching collar, allowing for secure retention and easy inspection of the connection, along with an indicator device for confirming proper latching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coupling element is designed to securely retain fluid-conducting lines against accidental disengagement, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional latching mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The latching device is segmented into distinct functional components: a latching projection on the coupling element and a corresponding latching collar on the coupling counter-element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is designed to engage automatically when the coupling element and coupling counter-element are assembled. The latching projection automatically engages with the latching collar without requiring additional manual operations, providing self-service functionality that enhances reliability without proportionally increasing operational complexity.
2Reliability
If a latching device with elastically deformable ring and latching projection is implemented, then connection security is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ring is designed with specific elastic properties and geometric parameters that allow it to deform under assembly loads and then maintain a stable latched position. By optimizing the elastic modulus, wall thickness, and radial dimensions of the ring, the design achieves reliable engagement while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing processes for elastomeric components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element combines a rigid main part (typically thermoplastic or metal) with an elastically deformable ring (typically rubber or elastomer). This composite construction leverages the strength and dimensional stability of the rigid material while utilizing the elasticity and damping properties of the elastomeric ring to achieve secure, reliable latching.
3Ease of operation
If an indicator device is added to verify latching status, then ease of operation is improved through simple verification, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator device utilizes visual indicators (such as color-coded elements or visible positional differences) to communicate the latching status. When the latching projection engages the latching collar, the indicator assumes a visible position or displays a specific color that immediately informs the operator of the connection status, greatly simplifying verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator device is integrated into the existing latching mechanism structure, serving both as part of the latching system and as a verification indicator. This multi-functionality approach allows the indicator to be implemented using existing components (such as the position of the ring itself or a simple visual feature on the latching projection) rather than adding a completely separate indication system.
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
The solution provides a reliable, easy-to-produce fluid-tight connection that prevents accidental disengagement and allows for straightforward verification of the latching status through an indicator device, ensuring secure and long-lasting fluid connections between fluid-conducting lines.
Implementation Method 1
the latching projection is elastically deflected outward in the radial direction by the latching collar
Implementation Method 2
the latching projection assumes a latched position in which it pushes the latching collar from behind in a latching manner in order to retain the coupling counter-element relative to the coupling element
Data Source
AI summary
The application relates to a coupling element for connecting a first fluid-conducting line to a second fluid-conducting line. Here it is provided that an indicator device is mounted on a latching device and has a retaining element which can be elastically deflected in the radial direction relative to a guide element of the indicator device and which in a latched position engages in the latch receiving area and secures the indicator device in the axial direction by interacting with a main part and in a non-latched position lies outside the latch receiving area and releases the indicator device to move in the axial direction. The invention additionally relates to a coupling assembly.