Hybrid Quick Connector with Segmented Metal and Plastic Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connector couplings face challenges in providing a balance between high heat resistance, crash resistance, and ease of manufacturing, while also requiring customization for specific applications, which is not adequately addressed by current designs.
Innovation Solution
A modular quick connector coupling system comprising a separate retainer housing and stem, where the retainer housing is made from heat-resistant plastic or metallic materials, and the stem is made from metallic materials, allowing for various configurations and orientations, including bends, to accommodate different applications with enhanced sealing and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a metal connector body is used, then heat resistance and crash resistance are improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is constructed as a composite structure combining a metal stem (providing heat and crash resistance) with a plastic retainer housing (providing sealing and ease of manufacture). This composite approach allows each material to contribute its superior properties, resolving the contradiction between strength and ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is divided into two separate components: a metal stem and a plastic retainer housing. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using the most appropriate process for its material properties, then assembled together, thereby achieving both high strength and ease of manufacture.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single piece plastic connector body is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but heat resistance and crash resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is constructed as a composite structure combining a metal stem (providing heat and crash resistance) with a plastic retainer housing (providing sealing and ease of manufacture). This composite approach allows each material to contribute its superior properties, resolving the contradiction between strength and ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is divided into two separate components: a metal stem and a plastic retainer housing. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using the most appropriate process for its material properties, then assembled together, thereby achieving both high strength and ease of manufacture.
3Ease of manufacture
If a standardized connector design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to specific applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is divided into two separate components: a metal stem and a plastic retainer housing. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using the most appropriate process for its material properties, then assembled together, thereby achieving both high strength and ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design with separate stem and retainer housing components allows the same basic structure to be adapted for various applications by changing materials, dimensions, or configuration of individual components, achieving both manufacturing simplicity and application-specific adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A quick connector coupling comprising a connector body having a retainer housing and a separate stem. The retainer housing defines a through bore extending axially rearward from a male member reception end. The retainer housing includes a generally cylindrical spacer portion. The stem defines a through bore extending axially rearward from a housing reception end. The stem includes a spacer housing portion overlying the spacer portion of the retainer housing. The spacer housing portion is crimped or roll grooved radially inward to secure the stem to the retainer housing.