Pipeline Connector With Mechanical Lock Engagement Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for motor vehicle pipelines face challenges in reliably indicating a correct and functionally secure connection between male and female plug-in parts, often requiring expensive detection systems with high production complexity.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a retainer and indicator element, where the male plug-in part includes a ramp that displaces the indicator element radially outward when inserted, indicating a secure connection through a radially outer position, allowing for simple and cost-effective detection of the properly fixed state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex electrical detection components are used to verify correct connection, then detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex electrical systems and implements it through a simple mechanical indicator element that visually shows connection status. The indicator element is a separate, simple component that replaces complex detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator element is designed as a simple, inexpensive mechanical component rather than a complex electrical detection system. It provides reliable detection through basic mechanical movement and visual indication, eliminating the need for expensive sensors and electronics.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If optical detection systems are implemented to indicate correct connection, then detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator element automatically indicates connection status through its own mechanical movement. When the male connector is properly inserted, the indicator element moves to a visible position showing correct connection, eliminating the need for external detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator element uses visual indication through color or position changes to show connection status. This simple visual feedback mechanism replaces complex optical detection systems with an intuitive, easy-to-manufacture solution.
3Reliability
If active locking action by operator is required to ensure proper connection, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator element provides immediate visual feedback to the operator about connection status. As the male connector is inserted, the indicator element moves to show when proper connection is achieved, guiding the operator without requiring complex locking actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system automatically indicates proper connection through the indicator element's mechanical movement. The system self-verify the connection status and communicates this to the operator, reducing the need for complex manual verification procedures.
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
Enables clear and reliable display of the properly fixed state of the male plug-in part on the female plug-in part without significant changes to the connector design, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while adhering to relevant standards.
Implementation Method 1
the indicator element slides over a ramp provided on the outer surface of the male connector and rising in the axial direction of the male connector when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, and is thereby displaced radially outwards
Implementation Method 2
the indicator legs are resiliently connected to an indicator base so that the indicator legs can be moved towards or away from each other by the application of force
Data Source
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AI summary
Connector for joining two fluid-carrying elements, in particular for joining two automotive pipelines, comprising a female connector and a male connector that can be inserted into the female connector. The male connector can be fixed to the female connector by means of at least one fixing element. At least one indicator element is provided, which indicates whether the male connector is properly or completely fixed in place. When the male connector is inserted into the female connector, the indicator element is displaced radially outwards. A radially outward position of the indicator element indicates that the male connector is properly fixed to the female connector.