Pipe Connector Locking Structure for Easy Coupling and O-Ring Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe connectors require additional processing and components for connection and separation, and separate components for fixing O-rings, increasing man-hours and costs.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connector design featuring male connectors with protruding beads and locking members that allow easy coupling and decoupling, eliminating the need for separate O-ring fixing components by integrating O-rings into the male connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If additional processing such as swaging or heat welding is used to couple the female connector and male connector, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into a female connector and male connector as separate components that can be independently manufactured and then easily coupled together through simple insertion and locking mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex swaging or heat welding processes
Solution Approach 2:
A locking member acts as an intermediary component between the female connector and male connector, providing a simple mechanical locking mechanism that ensures strong connection without requiring complex processing steps
2Reliability
If separate components such as spacer and retainer are used to secure the O-ring in the female connector, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the number of components and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The O-ring securing function is merged into the male connector itself through the locking member that engages with the female connector, eliminating the need for separate spacer and retainer components while maintaining sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The male connector with its locking member serves its own function of securing the O-ring through the engagement mechanism, eliminating the need for additional dedicated components for O-ring retention
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
Reduces man-hours for connection and separation, lowers component count, and decreases costs by simplifying the connection process and eliminating the need for additional components.
Implementation Method 1
The locking member may provide an elastic force in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the female connector while the beads are caught.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a pipe connector. The pipe connector according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a female connector; male connectors, each being coupled to one of two sides of the female connector and having a bead protruding from the outer peripheral surface thereof; and locking members, each having one surface on which the bead is caught while moving on a chamber part when the male connectors are coupled while being temporarily coupled to the chamber parts formed at both sides of the female connector.