Plug-Type Connector Axial Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for media lines require large lateral space for manual operation due to short lever arms and inefficient force introduction, leading to suboptimal handling and a bulky design.
Innovation Solution
The connector features axial release arms with inclined surfaces that apply spreading force closer to the locking cams, combined with a central interruption and channel-like guide recesses, allowing for a compact design and improved force transmission, enabling easier handling and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the release element is arranged with actuating sections in the central area of locking arms, then the connector structure is compact, but the lever arm is short and lateral free space is required for manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is repositioned from a radial arrangement to an axial arrangement, extending into the free end region of the locking arms. This dimensional change allows the actuating sections to engage the locking arms axially rather than radially, creating longer lever arms while maintaining connector compactness. The release element now operates in the axial dimension where sufficient space exists without requiring lateral free space.
2Reliability
If the release element is positioned between the plug part and locking arms, then the locking mechanism is secure, but the overall connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is nested within the existing connector structure by positioning it to extend axially into the free end region of the locking arms, utilizing the existing spatial envelope. The release element integrates with the locking arm geometry rather than adding external bulk, allowing the spreading force to be applied at the locking cam location while maintaining a compact overall connector size.
3Device complexity
If the actuating sections are located in the central area of locking arms, then the connector design is simplified, but the force transmission efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is positioned to engage the locking arms at their free end region near the locking cams, where the mechanical advantage is maximized. This preliminary positioning of the actuating sections allows the spreading force to be applied at the most effective location before the locking arms engage the locking step, improving force transmission efficiency while maintaining design simplicity.
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
This configuration results in a more efficient and convenient handling mechanism, allowing for easy gripping and operation in tight spaces, with enhanced force transmission and a reduced overall size.
Implementation Method 1
the actuating sections with the inclined surfaces for spreading the locking arms being arranged on the release arms in such a way that the locking arms are acted upon with the spreading force in the immediate vicinity of the locking cam
Implementation Method 2
two diametrically opposite, spring-elastic locking arms which each extend at a radial distance from the plug shaft
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a plug-type connector (1) for media lines, comprising a plug part (2) having a plug shaft (4) which can be inserted into a plug-in opening (6) in a receiving part (8) and can be locked in a releasable manner by means of locking means. The plug part (2) has at least two spring-elastic latching arms (16) as locking means, said latching arms extending in the plug-in direction in each case at a radial distance from the plug shaft (4) and, at their free ends, having radially inwardly projecting latching cams (18) for engaging behind a latching stage (20) of the receiving part (8) in a latching manner. The latching arms (16) can be spread radially outward, in order to release the locking of the plug part (2), by means of a release element (24), wherein the release element (24) is arranged on the plug part (2) in an axially displaceable manner. Furthermore, said release element interacts with the latching arms (16) in such a way that the latching arms (16) are spread radially by axial displacement of the release element (24) by the release element (24) acting, by way of in each case one operating section (28), against the latching arms (16) radially from the inside over inclined surfaces (30) with a spreading force (F). In this case, the release element (24) has, in the region which is situated radially between the latching arms (16) and the plug shaft (4), release arms (32) which extend axially at least as far as into the region of the latching cams (18). The operating sections (28) are arranged on the release arms (32), by way of the inclined surfaces (30) for spreading the latching arms (16), in such a way that the latching arms (16) are acted on in the region of the latching cams (18) with the spreading force (F) for release purposes.