Quick Connector Indicator Assembly for Compact Head Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors have complex designs leading to increased production costs and larger axial dimensions, making them less suitable for compact engine compartments and prone to part loss or damage during maintenance due to complex assembly sequences.
Innovation Solution
A compact quick connector design where the retainer and indicator are separate, injection-molded parts with securing arms, allowing for a minimal gap between them, reducing the axial extent of the head section and simplifying assembly by eliminating the need for axial expansion, thus enhancing usability and reducing production complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the indicator and retainer are separate parts that can be moved independently, then the assembly sequence becomes complex and parts can be lost or damaged during maintenance, but integrating them into a single multifunctional part increases the axial extent of the head section
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the indicator and retainer into a single integrated component that performs both functions simultaneously. This multifunctional part eliminates the need for separate indicator and retainer components, simplifying the assembly sequence while maintaining the necessary axial extent for proper operation in compact engine compartments
2Ease of manufacture
If the indicator and retainer are integrated into a single injection-molded part, then production costs increase due to complex tooling, but using separate parts increases the risk of part loss or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator and retainer are merged into a single injection-molded component, which eliminates the need for separate part production and assembly. This integration reduces production costs by simplifying tooling requirements while simultaneously improving reliability by eliminating the risk of part loss or damage that occurs with separate components
3Adaptability or versatility
If the quick connector is designed with larger axial dimensions to accommodate complex assembly sequences, then it becomes less suitable for compact engine compartments, but reducing axial dimensions complicates the assembly mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the indicator and retainer functions into a single component, the patent reduces the overall axial extent of the head section. This integration eliminates the need for complex multi-step assembly sequences involving independent indicator and retainer manipulation, making the quick connector suitable for compact engine compartments while maintaining operational reliability
Data Source
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AI summary
Quick connector comprising a coupling body and a multifunctional part, wherein the multifunctional part has a retainer and an indicator, wherein the coupling body comprises a head section at one end and a plug section at the other end, wherein the plug section is configured for attaching or inserting a first tube, wherein the head section has an axial opening for inserting a counterpart with a circumferential collar, wherein the head section comprises at least one radial opening for inserting the multifunctional part, wherein the multifunctional part has a back for manual actuation for insertion into the coupling body, wherein the retainer comprises two retainer legs, wherein the indicator has two indicator arms, wherein the indicator arms are movable independently of the retainer legs when the circumferential collar is inserted, and wherein the indicator arms and the coupling body are configured such thatthat the indicator can be moved from a partially inserted pre-assembly position to a fully inserted assembly position due to the movement of the indicator legs caused by the surrounding collar.