Fluid Connector Retainer Structure for Low-Force Tube Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid connectors in automotive applications require high insertion force for assembly and often necessitate post-process machining, with retaining clips being difficult to install and prone to loss.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection assembly featuring a polymer retainer with short and long fingers that reduces insertion force, simplifies assembly, and allows for easy disassembly, eliminating the need for post-process machining and improving tube retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional retaining clips are used in fluid connectors, then the connector can be assembled, but the insertion force required is very high and post-process machining is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to polymer and modifies the geometric parameters of the retaining structure by integrating it into the connector body with flexible fingers that have varying thicknesses. This allows the retaining mechanism to deform elastically during insertion, reducing the peak insertion force while maintaining holding strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining mechanism is segmented into multiple flexible fingers with different lengths (short fingers and long fingers) that can deform independently. This segmentation allows progressive engagement during insertion, distributing the insertion force over time and space rather than requiring simultaneous deformation of a single rigid clip.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional retaining clips are used, then the connector can be assembled, but slots must be machined in the connector body requiring extra post-process manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining mechanism is merged with the connector body as an integrated polymer component rather than being a separate metal clip that requires installation. The flexible fingers are formed directly as part of the connector body injection molding process, eliminating the need for separate retaining clip installation and post-process slot machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body itself provides the retaining function through its integrated flexible fingers, eliminating the need for separate retaining clips. The structure is self-retaining, where the connector body's own material and geometry provide the retention mechanism without requiring additional components or post-processing steps.
3Ease of manufacture
If thin metal retaining clips are used, then the connector can be assembled, but the clips are easy to lose if dropped or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining mechanism is merged with the connector body as an integrated polymer component. Since the retaining fingers are formed as part of the connector body itself, they cannot be lost or misplaced. This integration eliminates the risk of retaining clip loss while maintaining the simplicity of the retaining mechanism.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional retaining clips are used, then the connector can be assembled, but installation of the retaining clip is difficult and can jeopardize structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body provides the retaining function through its own integrated flexible fingers, eliminating the need for separate retaining clip installation. The structure is self-retaining, where the connector body's own material and geometry provide the retention mechanism without requiring additional components or post-processing steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid connection assembly, including a connector body, including a first end, a second end including a radially inward extending protrusion, a first through-bore, a gland, and at least one seal arranged in the gland, and a retainer operatively arranged to be removably connected to the connector body, the retainer including a ring portion forming a third end, the third end operatively arranged to enclose the at least one seal in the gland, at least one short finger extending from the ring portion, and at least one long finger extending from the ring portion and terminating at a fourth end, wherein when the retainer is connected to the connector body the at least one long finger extends out of the connector body from the second end.