Media Line Connector Snap-Lock for Error-Proof Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting devices for media lines require high assembly effort and are prone to improper assembly, often resulting in damage and incorrect connections due to insufficient retaining forces.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a movably held attachment element featuring control surfaces that deform elastically upon assembly force application, allowing the insertion part to snap into place securely, with a restoring force mechanism to prevent improper assembly and enhance retaining forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional connecting devices are used, then assembly effort is high and improper assembly is prone, but the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment element is designed to be movable relative to the coupling element during assembly, transitioning from a blocked starting position to a locked final position. This dynamic mechanism allows the insertion part to automatically trigger the locking action through axial insertion, reducing assembly effort while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment element is pre-configured in a blocked starting position where it prevents insertion. During assembly, the insertion part automatically overcomes this block and triggers the locking mechanism. This preliminary blocking action ensures proper assembly sequence and prevents improper assembly while keeping the device relatively simple
2Strength
If conventional connecting devices are used, then retaining forces are insufficient, but the device complexity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment element transitions from a movable state during assembly to a fixed locked state in operation. This dynamic-to-static transition ensures that high retaining forces are generated automatically when the insertion part is inserted, without requiring complex additional retaining structures
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device is divided into distinct functional elements: the coupling element, the insertion part, and the movable attachment element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the attachment element providing the necessary retaining forces through its locking mechanism
3Reliability
If the attachment element is movably held with restoring force, then assembly effort is reduced and reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment element incorporates a restoring force mechanism that automatically returns the element to its locked position after being displaced during assembly. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable locking without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, maintaining ease of manufacture while improving 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
The solution reduces assembly effort, ensures reliable and secure connections by utilizing a restoring force mechanism to lock the insertion part in place, and prevents improper assembly through a designed snap-in mechanism, enhancing the overall reliability and safety of the connection.
Implementation Method 1
The restoring force acting opposite the movement of the attachment element due to the insertion of the insertion part is caused by an at least partially elastic deformation of the attachment element caused in particular by the movement
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting device for media lines including a coupling element, an insert part and a fastening element. The coupling element has a connection opening and a fluid channel; the insert part can be inserted into the connection opening; and the insert part can be fastened to the coupling element by the fastening element. The fastening element also has at least one control surface. When the insert part is inserted into the connection opening under the action of an installation force, the insert part acts upon the control surface in such a way that the fastening element is moved against a restoring force. If the installation force is sufficient, the insert part slides past the control surface and the fastening element interlockingly locks the insertion part. If the installation force is not sufficient, the fastening element presses the insert part back out of the connection opening.