Plug-In Pipe Connector Locking Indicator for Clear Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connectors for liquid or gaseous media lack clear indication of correct connection and locking, leading to uncertainty in assembly.
Innovation Solution
A plug connector design featuring a locking element and an indicator element with a spring section, where the indicator element deforms to indicate correct locking, and a machine-readable code for secure and visual confirmation of correct positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking element is used to secure the plug connector, then the connection reliability is improved, but it cannot be clearly determined whether the locking element is correctly engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded indicator elements that change position or color to indicate the locking state. The indicator element has a first color when unlocked and a second color when locked, providing clear visual feedback about the connection status without adding complex detection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an indicator element as an intermediary component that visually represents the locking state. This indicator element is coupled to the locking element and provides external visibility of the internal locking condition, making it easy to detect without directly observing the locking mechanism.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If an indicator element with spring section is added to show locking position, then the detectability of correct connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator element is designed to automatically indicate the locking state without requiring external power or control systems. The spring section self-actuates based on the locking element's position, providing passive visual feedback that reduces system complexity while improving detectability.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator element changes its physical state (position or color) in response to the locking element's state. This parameter change provides clear visual indication of correct connection without requiring additional sensors or complex detection mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If the indicator element is designed to abut against the securing groove, then the indication accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator element is segmented into a spring section and an indicator section, allowing the spring to absorb manufacturing tolerances while the indicator provides precise visual feedback. This segmentation decouples the tolerance-absorbing function from the indication function.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring section of the indicator element is designed with elastic properties that allow it to compensate for manufacturing variations. The spring can deform to accommodate tolerance ranges while still providing accurate indication when the locking element is correctly engaged.
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
Ensures clear identification of correct connection and locking, preventing operator errors and allowing for machine-readable verification.
Implementation Method 1
the first partial section and the second partial section are flexibly coupled to one another by means of a spring section
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a plug connector and method for connecting pipes for liquid or gaseous media. The plug connector includes a connector body and a locking element. An indicator element is formed, which has an indicator surface, a first partial section and a second partial section, wherein the first partial section and the second partial section are flexibly coupled to one another by means of a spring section. The first partial section is connected to the locking element, and the indicator surface is formed on the second partial section, wherein the indicator element is formed such that, in a locking position of the locking element, the second partial section is deformed relative to the first partial section, so that the indicator surface is pushed into an indicator position.