Plug-in Connector Claw and Clamping Element Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connectors damage pipelines during attachment and detachment due to the design of claw elements that dig into the pipe surface, leading to irreversible damage and the need for replacement.
Innovation Solution
A connector design where the claw element is integrated with the clamping element as a single, flexible unit made of high-performance plastic, allowing the claw to engage the pipeline minimally during insertion and the clamping element to provide the holding force, ensuring the pipeline is not damaged and can be easily plugged and unplugged without damage to the claw or pipe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the claw element is designed to dig into the pipeline surface for secure holding, then the holding strength is improved, but the pipeline surface is damaged irreversibly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate functional elements: a claw element for initial engagement and a clamping element for secure holding. The claw element has claws that engage the pipeline surface during insertion, while the clamping element with its radially inwardly extending wall provides the primary holding force without damaging the pipeline, thus resolving the contradiction between secure holding and surface protection
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element acts as an intermediary between the fixing part and the pipeline. It transfers the clamping force from the fixing part to the pipeline through its radially inwardly extending wall, providing secure holding without requiring the claw element to dig into the pipeline surface, thereby preventing surface damage while maintaining strong attachment
2Strength
If the claw element is made of metal for durability, then the strength is improved, but the friction and damage to the pipeline increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes different materials for different functional requirements: the claw element is made of metal for durability and engagement strength, while the clamping element is made of plastic with a radially inwardly extending wall for gentle, damage-free clamping. This composite material approach allows the metal claw to provide durable engagement without causing excessive friction damage, as the plastic clamping element takes over the primary holding function
3Ease of operation
If the claw element is designed to detach easily, then the ease of operation is improved, but the holding strength during use is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of claw element and clamping element functions allows easy detachment through simple axial movement. The claw element engages during insertion, then the clamping element provides secure holding. For detachment, the fixing part is unscrewed and the clamping element is pushed axially, allowing the claw element to disengage from the pipeline surface without requiring forceful removal, thus achieving both easy operation and strong holding during use
4Strength
If the clamping element is positioned to clamp the pipeline firmly, then the holding strength is improved, but the pipeline surface is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping element features a radially inwardly extending wall that acts as a flexible clamping surface. This wall can deform slightly to conform to the pipeline surface, distributing the clamping force evenly and preventing localized stress concentrations that would cause damage. The flexible design allows firm clamping for strong holding while maintaining pipeline surface integrity
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 securely holds the pipeline without causing significant damage, allowing for easy attachment and detachment, and the use of high-performance plastic minimizes friction and damage, enabling the reuse of both the claw element and the pipeline.
Implementation Method 1
a radially inward-pointing wall area of the clamping element can be pressed against the outside of the pipeline
Implementation Method 2
the claw element on its inward-pointing side has at least one claw for engaging in or pressing against the outside of the pipeline
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~9
AI summary
Disclosed is a plug-in connector comprising a supporting member (1), a fixing part (2) for attaching a free end (3) of a conduit (4) to the supporting member (1), a clamping element (5) which is disposed between the fixing part (2) and the supporting member (1) and can be axially moved relative to the fixing part (2) in the direction of the free end (7) of the fixing part (2), said movement allowing a radially inward-facing wall area (8) of the clamping element (5) to be pressed against the external surface (9) of the conduit (4), and a clawing element (6) that is arranged inside the fixing part and is provided with at least one claw (10) on the radially inward-facing side thereof, said at least one claw (10) being used to engage into or press against the external surface (9) of the conduit (4). The clawing element (6) is connected to the clamping element (5) in such a way that no or only a negligible radial force can be applied to the claw (10) of the clawing element (6) when the inward-facing wall area (8) of the clamping element (5) is moved radially inward.