Quick-Change Coupling for Single-Step Media and Mechanical Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices require separate processes for mechanical and media line connections, leading to increased work and risk of operating errors.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a male and female connecting element arrangement that allows media-conducting coupling when the parts approach, utilizing a manually operable actuating mechanism and guide pins to ensure alignment and reduce damage, incorporating commercially available connector combinations and elastic materials for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate processes are used for mechanical connection and media line connection, then mechanical connection can be achieved, but work amount increases and risk of operating errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical connection and media line connection into a single integrated coupling process. The active connecting part includes both a mechanical coupling element and media-conducting connecting elements (male/female connectors), while the passive connecting part includes a mating contact surface with a lateral recess to receive the coupling element and associated media connecting elements. When the two connecting parts approach each other in the approach direction, both mechanical and media connections are established simultaneously through a single coupling action, eliminating the need for separate connection processes.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional commercially available male-connector/female-connector combinations are used, then production costs are reduced, but coupling path length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal, commercially available male-connector/female-connector combinations for media lines, which are integrated into the connecting parts. These standard connectors can be coupled when the two connecting parts approach each other, providing a multi-functional solution that handles both mechanical connection (through the coupling element and lateral recess) and media line connection (through the male/female connectors) within a single device architecture.
3Reliability
If guide pins are provided for alignment, then damage risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates guide pins that extend beyond the longest male connecting element to perform preliminary alignment of the two connecting parts before the male and female connecting elements engage. This preliminary guiding action ensures proper positioning and prevents misalignment damage during the coupling process, while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure by using straightforward guide pin geometry.
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
Simplifies the connection process, reduces production costs, and minimizes the risk of confusion and damage by enabling a single coupling process for both mechanical and media lines, while ensuring secure and efficient alignment and engagement.
Implementation Method 1
In order to be able to avoid mechanical clearance, it can be provided that the coupling element is preloaded into the release position by means of a spring unit.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection device with an active connecting part and a passive connecting part. The active connecting part comprises a coupling element projecting from a contact surface. At least one male connecting element is provided on one of the connecting parts and at least one associated female connecting element is provided on the other of the connecting parts. The at least one male connecting element and the at least one associated female connecting element are arranged such that, when the two connecting parts approach each other, they can be coupled to each other in a media-conducting manner. At least one connecting part has a holder which is arranged on a base element of the respective connecting part to be displaceable by a predetermined distance in the connection direction, and to which at least one male connecting element and/or at least one female connecting element is attached.