Pipe Connector Locking Mechanism for Stable Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe connecting connectors may unintentionally release the pipe connection when a force is applied in the direction of releasing the fixation, unrelated to the user's operation, due to increased pressing force on the inclined surface of the hook.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connecting connector with a lock member that includes a pipe locking portion and an urging device, which uses elastic deformation to guide the locking portion into a locking position, ensuring the pipe is securely held, and converting the urging force into a locking force to maintain the connected state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simplified and compact structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to solidly hold the connected state of the pipe may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it transmits the locking force from the lock member to the hook, provides a controlled pressing interface through its pressing portion, and maintains elastic deformation capability. This merging reduces the number of separate components while ensuring reliable pipe connection holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member utilizes elastic deformation as a key parameter change mechanism. By designing the pressing member with specific elastic properties, it can dynamically adjust the pressing force on the hook while maintaining structural integrity. The elastic deformation allows the component to absorb and release energy, ensuring stable connection holding without complex mechanical systems.
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 connector effectively solidly holds the connected state of the pipe, preventing unintended release and ensuring stability despite a simplified and compact structure.
Implementation Method 1
an urging device (33 and 41) urging the lock member to the locking position side. In a case wherein the lock member is in the locking position, the pipe locking portion is urged in a direction of locking the pipe by an urging force of the urging device
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connecting connector adapted to connect a pipe to a connecting object, includes a connector main body adapted to insert or remove the pipe, and including a locking opening formed on a side portion thereof; a lock member including an annular portion and a pipe locking portion extending from the annular portion and including a locking claw extending inside the connector main body through the locking opening for locking the pipe, the lock member being movably held relative to the connector main body between a locking position wherein the pipe locking portion locks the pipe, and an unlocking position releasing the locking, and an urging device urging the lock member to a locking position side. The pipe locking portion is urged in a locking direction of the pipe by an urging force of the urging device when the lock member is in the locking position.