Fluid Connection Retainer With Low-Force Locking Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid connection assemblies require high insertion force for assembly, often necessitate post-process machining, and lack a clear indication of connection status, making them difficult to assemble and prone to structural integrity issues and misplacement of retaining clips.
Innovation Solution
A retainer design with a displaceable section, radially facing surfaces, and an indicator mechanism that slides within a hole, allowing for reduced assembly force and visual confirmation of connection status through a protruding head in the fully assembled state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional retaining clip design is used, then the fluid connector can secure the tube, but the insertion force required is very large and post-process machining is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is divided into a first section and a second section that can displace relative to each other. The second section moves radially inward during assembly to reduce engagement force, then locks in place to provide secure retention. This segmentation allows the retainer to provide both low insertion force and high securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer transitions from a static design to a dynamic one where the second section can displace radially inward during assembly and then lock in a fixed position. This dynamic movement allows the retainer to adapt during the assembly process, reducing insertion force while maintaining securing reliability.
2Reliability
If slots or apertures are machined in the connector body, then the retaining clip can engage the tube, but extra post-process manufacturing is required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of machining slots or apertures in the connector body to accommodate a retaining clip, the invention inverts the approach by providing slots in the retainer itself. This eliminates the need for post-process machining of the connector body while still enabling proper engagement of the tube.
3Reliability
If a traditional retaining clip is used, then the tube can be secured, but it is difficult to install and structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic displacement of the second section during installation allows the retainer to be easily installed without compromising structural integrity. The second section moves radially inward to facilitate installation, then locks in place to provide secure retention, making the process both easy and reliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The displaceable second section acts as an intermediary mechanism that facilitates easy installation. By moving radially inward during assembly, it mediates between the need for easy installation and the need for secure retention, preventing installation difficulties and structural compromise.
4Device complexity
If the retaining clip is made thin and small, then it can fit in the connector, but it is easy to lose if dropped or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is segmented into two sections, with the second section being displaceable. This segmentation allows the retainer to maintain a compact size while incorporating a locking mechanism that prevents loss. The second section's radial displacement and locking capability ensure the retainer remains secure and不易丢失.
5Reliability
If current connection assembly solutions are used, then the fluid connection can be established, but they take a long time to secure and require tools
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic displacement of the second section enables tool-free assembly. The retainer's ability to move radially inward during assembly and then lock in place allows for quick, tool-free installation, significantly improving productivity while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is designed to perform its own installation without requiring external tools. The displaceable second section automatically moves into position and locks during assembly, allowing the retainer to service itself and eliminate the need for tools, thereby reducing assembly time.
6Reliability
If current connection assembly solutions are used, then the fluid connection can be established, but they do not indicate the connection state
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator includes a color-changing element that visually indicates the connection state. When the retainer is properly assembled and locked, the indicator displays a specific color or position, providing clear visual feedback about the connection status and eliminating information loss about assembly state.
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer for a fluid connection assembly, including a first end, a second end, a first section, a second section displaceable with respect to the first section, a radially inward facing surface, a radially outward facing surface, and an indicator slidably connected to the first section.