Multi-Geometry Fluid Connector Assembly for Sealing Flat and Round Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors face challenges in reliably coupling fluid lines of significantly different geometries, particularly those with a narrow, almost line-shaped cross section, which complicates sealing and axial fixation.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a housing with first and second connection sections, a locking element, and a seal, allowing for easy coupling and sealing of fluid lines with different geometries, including a flat-tube-shaped line and a circular cross-section line, while ensuring axial fixation without the need for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connector is designed to couple fluid lines of significantly different geometries (circular and flat profiles), then the adaptability is improved, but the sealing reliability deteriorates due to the narrow, line-shaped cross section complicating the sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different connection sections with geometries adapted to specific fluid line types. The housing has a first connection section for circular fluid lines and a second connection section for flat profiles, allowing each connection point to be optimized for its specific geometry while maintaining overall sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing acts as an intermediary element that bridges two different fluid line geometries. The housing contains fluid channels that receive both circular and flat profiles, enabling fluid communication between differently shaped lines while the seal element ensures reliable sealing at the interface
2Adaptability or versatility
If a connector is designed with a narrow, line-shaped cross section to accommodate flat profiles, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because axial fixation becomes more difficult without threads
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional elements: a housing with fluid channels, a seal element, and a locking element. The locking element is specifically designed to engage with the flat profile fluid line and provide axial fixation through a mechanism other than threading, simplifying the connection process
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to automatically secure the flat profile fluid line in the axial direction upon insertion, without requiring additional threading operations or tools. The geometry of the locking element and fluid line interface enables self-fixation
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for two fluid conduits of different geometries includes a housing having a first and a second connection portion and a fluid channel fluidically connecting both connection portions; a locking element which can be coupled to the housing; and a seal which can be positioned between the housing and the locking element. The locking element and the housing can be positioned relative to one another with respect to the fluid channel such that a receiving portion for receiving the seal is formed between the housing and the locking housing. The first connection portion is designed to connect a first fluid conduit with an elongated cross-section and the second connection portion is designed to connect a second fluid conduit with a round cross-section.