Fluid Line Connector Assembly With RFID Securement Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies for fluid lines, especially in vehicle applications, require physical interaction and visual verification for proper and full engagement, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially in automated or remote settings.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, an actuator member, and a switch within the fluid line connector allows for remote detection of proper and full securement through RFID technologies, eliminating the need for physical contact and visual inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual measures and physical interaction are used to verify proper engagement, then engagement verification is achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and physical verification with an automated detection system using RFID tags, interrogators, and switches. The RFID tag on the connector body communicates with an interrogator, and switches detect actuator member positions to automatically verify engagement without requiring physical interaction or visual inspection by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly performs self-verification through integrated sensors and RFID communication. The switch automatically detects when the actuator member is in the correct position, and the RFID system automatically communicates engagement status, eliminating the need for external verification by operators.
2Reliability
If visual measures and physical interaction are required for engagement detection, then proper securement can be confirmed, but automated and remote assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual detection methods with electronic sensing systems. RFID tags provide wireless communication for status reporting, and electrically coupled switches detect actuator positions automatically, enabling remote and automated assembly operations without requiring physical presence or visual confirmation by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces RFID tags and electronic switches as intermediary devices between the connector components and the verification system. These intermediaries transmit engagement status information electronically, enabling automated detection and remote monitoring without direct physical interaction with the connector components.
3Reliability
If secondary latches and viewing windows are added to the connector, then engagement verification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the verification function from the mechanical connector structure itself and separates it into independent electronic components (RFID tags, switches, actuators). This allows the connector body to remain simple while the verification system operates independently through electronic sensing and communication, reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag and switch system serves multiple functions: detecting engagement status, communicating with external systems, and providing verification information. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate mechanical verification features like secondary latches or viewing windows, reducing overall device complexity.
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 automated, robotic, and autonomous assembly and inspection processes by providing a reliable method to detect securement states without the need for immediate physical interaction, suitable for various fluid line applications including automotive, aircraft, and marine systems.
Implementation Method 1
a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag that can communicate with an RFID interrogator
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid line connector and assembly provides remote securement detection capabilities and is hence equipped for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and subsequent service techniques that are automated, robotic, and/or autonomous. The fluid line connector, in an embodiment, includes a body, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a passage for fluid-flow therethrough and has an opening. The retainer can move through the body's opening. The RFID tag can communicate with an RFID interrogator. The switch is electrically coupled with the RFID tag.