Integrated Coupling Interface for Single-Step Media And Mechanical Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices for machine components require separate coupling for mechanical and media lines, which is labor-intensive and prone to operator error.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a plug element and socket element on each part that allows media-conducting coupling as the parts approach, using a manually operated actuation mechanism and guided alignment to simplify the process and reduce mechanical play.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate coupling operations are used for mechanical connection and media lines, then mechanical connection can be achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive and prone to operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical coupling element and media-conducting plug-socket elements into a single integrated connecting device. When two connecting parts are brought together, both the mechanical coupling (via coupling element and lateral recess) and media line connections (via plug and socket elements) occur simultaneously in one coupling operation, eliminating the need for separate mechanical and media coupling steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical connection through the coupling element, media conduction through plug-socket elements, and alignment guidance through guide pins. This multi-functional design allows a single component to handle both structural and fluid/electrical connection tasks that previously required separate operations.
2Extent of automation
If a motor-driven actuation mechanism is used, then automation can be achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is designed to be manually operable, allowing the operator to directly actuate the coupling element from the retracted connection position to the extended release position. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex motor-driven automation systems while still achieving the required functional sequence of operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a motor to drive the coupling element outward, the design allows manual actuation where the operator directly manipulates the coupling element. This inversion of the typical automated approach simplifies the mechanism by removing the motor while maintaining the functional sequence through direct manual operation.
3Reliability
If the coupling path is made longer to accommodate plug-socket coupling, then media-conducting coupling can be achieved, but the connection path for mechanical coupling must be extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the path length conflict by using dimensional differentiation: the coupling element moves in a first direction (connection direction) for mechanical coupling over a short path, while the plug and socket elements couple in a second direction (approach direction) over a longer path. This allows both coupling types to have their required path lengths without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device is segmented into distinct functional components with independent movement paths: the coupling element for mechanical connection and the plug-socket elements for media conduction. This segmentation allows each component to have its own optimized coupling path length without constraining the other, enabling the longer media coupling path while maintaining short mechanical coupling distance.
4Manufacturing precision
If guide pins are provided for pre-alignment, then alignment precision can be improved, but the risk of damage to plug-socket combinations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide pins perform the alignment function before the plug and socket elements engage. By pre-aligning the connecting parts through guide pin insertion into guide holes, the system ensures that subsequent plug-socket coupling occurs without misalignment forces that could cause damage. This preliminary alignment action protects the more delicate plug-socket components.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide pins act as a protective mechanism that prevents misalignment before it can affect the plug-socket elements. By providing rigid guidance through the guide pins first, the system cushions against potential damage to the plug-socket combinations during the coupling process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting device (100) with an active connecting part (102a) and a passive connecting part (102b). The active connecting part (102a) comprises a coupling element (106) projecting from a contact surface (104). According to the invention, at least one plug element (114) is provided on one of the connecting parts (102; 102b) and at least one associated socket element (116) is provided on the other of the connecting parts (102; 102a). The at least one plug element (114) and the at least one associated socket element (116) are arranged such that they can be coupled to each other in a media-conducting manner when the two connecting parts (102; 102a; 102b) are brought close together in the approach direction (A).At least one connecting part (102a; 102b) has a holder (118; 118a; 118b) which is arranged on a base element (120) of the respective connecting part (102) in the connection direction (V) displaceable by a predetermined distance (d), and to which at least one plug element (114) and/or at least one socket element (116) is attached.