Pipeline Connector With Radial Lock Indicator for Secure Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for motor vehicle pipelines struggle to provide a clear and functionally reliable indication of a correct connection between male and female plug-in parts, often requiring expensive detection systems.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a radial indicator element that displaces outward when the male plug-in part is inserted, using a U-shaped retainer and ramp to indicate proper fixation, allowing for simple and inexpensive detection of a secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If expensive electrical detection components are used to indicate correct connection, then detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive electrical detection components with a simple, inexpensive visual indicator element that provides reliable connection status indication without requiring costly electronics. The indicator element is a simple mechanical component that can be manufactured at low cost while maintaining functional reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes electrical detection systems with a mechanical indicator mechanism. The indicator element is mechanically coupled to the connection components and provides visual feedback through mechanical displacement, eliminating the need for electrical sensors, circuits, and power sources.
2Reliability
If complex detection systems are implemented to ensure correct connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex electrical systems and implements it through a simple, dedicated indicator element. This indicator element is integrated into the connection structure but remains a separate, simple component that provides clear visual feedback without adding system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator element automatically indicates connection status through its own mechanical displacement when the connection is made or broken. The system self-monitors and self-indicates without requiring external detection systems, control electronics, or additional complexity.
3Ease of operation
If visual indicator elements are added to show connection status, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the indicator element with the existing connection structure, integrating visual feedback functionality into the mechanical components already present. The indicator element is positioned to be actuated by the same mechanical movements that occur during connection, combining indication with the existing structure rather than adding separate systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for connecting two fluid-conducting elements, in particular for connecting two motor vehicle pipelines, with a female plug-in part and a male plug-in part that can be plugged into the female plug-in part. The male plug-in part can be fixed on the female plug-in part via at least one fixing element. At least one indicator element is provided, which indicates the properly or completely fixed state of the male plug-in part which has been reached via the fixing element. When the male plug-in part is inserted into the female plug-in part, the indicator element is displaced outward in the radial direction. A radial outer position of the indicator element shows the properly fixed state of the male plug-in part on the female plug-in part.