Fluidic Connector Plug With Spring Tongues For Low Insertion Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluidic connector plugs for compressed air systems in commercial vehicles face challenges in achieving a simple and secure fluid-tight connection, especially under tensile forces, and often require complex assembly processes and materials that are not optimized for plastic components.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic connector plug design featuring an inner and outer part with a holding element and a securing element, where the holding element provides a frictional or form-fitting securement, and a securing element with radially flexible spring tongues that can be inserted with low force but resist removal forces effectively, using materials like plastic or metal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional fluidic connector plug with cap screw and retaining ring is used, then the connection can be secured against tensile forces, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cap screw, retaining ring, and inner part into a single integrated connector plug component. The securing element with spring tongues is built into the outer part structure, eliminating the need for separate retaining rings and simplifying the assembly to a single insertion operation while maintaining security against tensile forces through the spring tongue mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The outer part serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural housing, contains the securing element with spring tongues for anti-tensile force protection, and integrates the holding element for line retention. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and simplifies the overall assembly process
2Ease of operation
If a push-to-connect connector with clamping lugs and taper is used, then the connection can be quickly assembled, but the securing force against removal is insufficient under high tensile loads
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element incorporates radially flexible spring tongues that dynamically adapt to loading conditions. During assembly, the spring tongues are compressed radially inward to allow easy insertion. Once assembled, they exert radial outward force to secure the connection and can withstand high tensile loads through their elastic deformation capability, providing both ease of assembly and high securing strength
3Reliability
If a connector plug with molded-in holding element is used, then the line can be securely retained in the inner part, but the assembly requires higher insertion forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector plug is divided into distinct functional segments: the inner part with the holding element for line retention, and the outer part with the securing element for anti-removal protection. This segmentation allows the holding element to be optimized for line retention while the securing element handles the high forces, reducing the insertion force requirement for the overall assembly
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 design allows for easy assembly with low initial force while providing a high maximum securing force against tensile forces, ensuring a reliable and fluid-tight connection with simplified installation and disassembly processes.
Implementation Method 1
The holding element is designed as a type of friction element which is pressed against the lateral surface of the line in order to form a frictional contact
Implementation Method 2
The sleeve has clamping lugs which are acted upon radially inwards and which are pressed against the lateral surface of the pipeline
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a fluidic connector (1) for the fluid-tight connection of a pipe- or hose-like line (29) to a connection (56). In particular, the connector (1) serves to establish a pneumatic connection in a compressed air system of a commercial vehicle. The connector (1) according to the invention has an inner part (5), an outer part (4), and a locking element (3), which is designed as a retaining ring (2). The locking element (3) can be inserted into the connection (56) (possibly also together with the outer part (4)) with insertion forces that are an order of magnitude smaller than the maximum locking force required to remove the connector from the connection (56). For this purpose, for example, a spring tongue (12) can be engaged in an undercut (62) of the connection (56).