Internal Retaining Clip Fluid Connector for Compact Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid connectors require post-process machining and have difficulties in assembly due to the need for external retaining clips, which can be lost and complicate the structural integrity, especially in automotive applications where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connector design with an internal retaining clip that eliminates the need for post-process machining and reduces insertion force, featuring a retaining plate and tube end form arrangement that allows for secure assembly without external clips, using a crimped flange to enclose the clip within the connector body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external retaining clips are used in conventional fluid connectors, then the connector can securely hold the tube end form, but post-process machining is required and the retaining clips can be lost during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip is merged with the connector body by forming it as an integrated component during the molding process. This eliminates the need for separate retaining clips that can be lost and removes the requirement for post-process machining of slots or apertures in the connector body.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides fluid connection, structural support, and integrated retention of the tube end form through the molded-in retaining clip feature, eliminating the need for separate retention components.
2Reliability
If external retaining clips are used, then the connector can engage the tube end form, but the assembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip feature is pre-formed as an integral part of the connector body during the molding process. This preliminary action eliminates the need for separate installation steps for the retaining clip, allowing the tube end form to be directly engaged and secured in a single assembly motion.
3Reliability
If slots are machined in the connector body for retaining clip installation, then the retaining clip can engage the tube end form, but manufacturing complexity and debris generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The need for post-process machining operations is extracted and eliminated by designing the retaining clip as a molded-in feature. This approach removes the harmful factor of machining debris and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining the retaining function.
4Reliability
If conventional connector designs are used, then the connector can function, but the connector body length increases due to external retaining mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip feature is nested within the connector body structure as an integrated molded feature rather than an external component. This nesting approach reduces the overall length of the connector body while maintaining the retention function, allowing for more compact packaging.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A fluid connector (10), including a connector body (40), including a first through-bore (41), a first surface (45), a second surface (43), and a flange (52), a retaining clip (70) operatively arranged to engage the first surface, the retaining clip being radially expandable within the connector body, and a retaining plate arranged to be inserted into the first through-bore, including a distal surface arranged to engage the second surface, a proximal surface, and a second through-bore, wherein the flange is operatively arranged to be crimped radially inward around the retaining plate.