Plug-in Connection with Snap-fit Fixing Segments

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing plug connection arrangements face challenges in simplifying the assembly process while ensuring a fluid-tight and stable connection without additional attachment means.

Innovation Solution

A plug-in connection arrangement featuring a first plug-in connection end with an annular body and fixing segments that engage with a fixing groove via ramp geometry, allowing for a snap-in mechanism and limited movement, facilitated by spring arms for enhanced stability and ease of assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional plug connection arrangements are used, then assembly is possible, but the assembly process is complex and requires additional attachment means

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly processVSAvoidattachment means
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing segments are integrated directly into the annular body of the first plug-in connection end, eliminating the need for separate attachment means. This merging of functions allows the connection elements to be built-in rather than added, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining assembly capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing segments with ramp geometry automatically engage with the fixing groove through the扭动 (twisting) motion itself, without requiring additional fastening operations or separate attachment components. The connection mechanism serves its own assembly function through the inherent geometric design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Stability of the object's composition

If fixing segments engage deeply with the fixing groove, then connection stability is improved, but assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidengagement mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ramp geometry of the fixing segments and the corresponding fixing groove profile create a curved engagement path that guides the segments into deep engagement naturally during the twisting motion. This geometric design achieves stable deep engagement without complex mechanical structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing segments are designed to move dynamically from a shallow engagement position during initial insertion to a deep engagement position during the twisting motion. This dynamic engagement process allows stable connection to be achieved through motion rather than complex static structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If the annular body is rigidly connected to the first plug-in connection end, then structural strength is improved, but movement during assembly is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidmovement during assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The spring arms provide a flexible connection between the annular body and the first plug-in connection end, allowing the annular body to move relative to the connector during assembly while maintaining structural integrity. This flexible linkage enables the necessary movement for engagement while preserving overall strength

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The spring arms allow the system to transition from a static rigid connection to a dynamic flexible connection during assembly, enabling the annular body to move freely during the engagement process and then stabilize in the final assembled position

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution enables a simple, stable, and repeatable assembly process with a noticeable torque change during final assembly, preventing overtightening and ensuring a high pull-off force, thus providing a reliable fluid-tight connection.

Implementation Method 1

The annular body 24 is integrally connected to a tubular base body 29 of the first connector end 21 by spring arms 27, 28. The spring arms allow the ring body with the fixing segments to move relative to the first connector end.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

During pre-fixing, the fixing segments are brought into engagement with the fixing groove via the ramp geometry. By twisting the two connector ends against each other, the fixing segments are brought into deeper engagement with the fixing groove.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2443378B1Plug-in connection arrangement
Publication Date: 2016.04.20 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • EP2443378B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2443378B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP2443378B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The invention relates to a plug-in connection arrangement (20) comprising a first plug-in connection end (21), which can be plugged into a second plug-in connection end (22) in such a way that the two plug-in connection ends are connected in a fluid-tight manner and form a fluid connection. The invention is characterized in that a ring element (24) having fastening segments (25, 26) is attached to the first plug-in connection end (21), said fastening segments (25, 26) engaging in a fastening groove (30) provided on the second plug-in-connection end (22).