Insertion Coupling Radial Locking and Visual Inspection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insertion couplings are complex, costly, and prone to assembly errors due to multiple parts, with unclear latching visibility and unreliable sealing, especially in applications like fuel lines where dirt can compromise the seal.
Innovation Solution
A simplified design with a two-part insertion coupling system featuring a circumferential retaining rib and a sleeve part with an arc-shaped housing tab and integral locking element, where the locking element is radially movable for latching and releasing, and oblique bearing faces ensure secure engagement and easy visual inspection, using a single sealing ring for both overpressure and vacuum regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple parts are used to form the locking mechanism, then the coupling can achieve functional reliability, but the assembly complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrally formed with the housing tab as a single piece, eliminating the need for separate locking components. This merging of parts simplifies the assembly process while maintaining the locking function, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The housing tab serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, forms the locking mechanism through the integrated locking element, and enables visual inspection of the latching state. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while ensuring reliable operation
2Reliability
If the locking mechanism is designed to be secure, then the latching is reliable, but the visibility of correct latching from the outside is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The housing tab is designed with a window or opening that allows visual inspection of the latching state. When the locking element is in the latched position, it is visible through this window, providing immediate visual confirmation of correct assembly without compromising the security of the connection
3Ease of operation
If the bushing is made axially displaceable to release the coupling state, then the coupling can be released, but dirt can penetrate and O-rings can become twisted compromising sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the axially displaceable bushing and assigned to a stationary sealing arrangement. The sealing element remains fixed in position and does not move axially during coupling release, preventing dirt ingress and twisting while still allowing the coupling to be released through the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is segmented into distinct functional zones: the locking mechanism (housing tab and locking element) is separated from the sealing mechanism. This segmentation allows the locking element to move radially for release while the sealing element remains stationary, eliminating the conflict between release functionality and sealing reliability
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
Reduces assembly complexity and costs by minimizing parts, enhances latching visibility, and maintains reliable sealing by preventing dirt ingress and ensuring secure engagement under internal pressure, thus preventing leaks and improving assembly reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element (5) is configured or arranged such that it can be radially elastically deflected
Implementation Method 2
The housing tab (9) and the sleeve part (1) have bearing faces formed thereon which run obliquely to a central axis (longitudinal axis) of the sleeve part, the bearing faces cooperating to radially fix the housing tab
Implementation Method 3
a uniform sealing ring can be used as the seal, which comprises two sealing regions which are independent from each other, namely an overpressure region and a vacuum region
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion coupling which can be used for example for a vacuum line consists of an insertion part and a sleeve part (1), wherein a locking element (5), which can be brought into engagement with a retaining rib of the insertion part, and an actuation element (10) are integrally formed on a housing tab (9) which extends in an arc-shaped manner around a longitudinal axis of the sleeve part (1) and can be elastically deflected radially. A movement of the locking element (5) in a radially outward direction and thus a release of the engaged state between the sleeve part (1) and the insertion part is possible by moving the actuation element (10) in an actuation direction (13). A construction which is particularly simple in design is produced owing to the small number of parts. The sleeve part (1) is provided with a window, by means of which a correct engaged state of the locking element with the retaining rib can be visually checked.