Quick Connector Detection Tool for Fluid Line Engagement Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-connect fluid coupling systems lack a reliable method to confirm proper engagement of fluid lines, leading to potential misconnections and assembly errors in the automotive industry.
Innovation Solution
A detection tool with a hub portion, handle portion, and spring portion that applies axial force and torque to interact with the fluid line and retaining clip, activating an indicating mechanism, such as an electrical circuit with a light source, to verify proper connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a quick-connect fluid coupling system is used to allow rapid assembly of fluid lines, then assembly speed and ease of operation are improved, but there is no reliable method to confirm proper engagement, leading to potential misconnections and assembly errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a detection tool with an indicating means that provides immediate feedback on connection status. When the fluid line is properly engaged with the quick-connect coupling, the detection tool detects the reaction torque through the retained clip and activates an indicator (such as a light source or electrical signal) to confirm proper engagement. This feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining rapid assembly while ensuring reliable connection confirmation.
2Device complexity
If no detection tool is used, then device complexity is reduced, but assembly errors and misconnections cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a detection tool as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the quick-connect coupling system and the operator. The tool includes a finger that contacts the retained clip, a spring portion that detects reaction torque, and an indicating means that communicates connection status. This intermediary device adds minimal complexity while enabling precise detection of connection status without requiring complex integrated systems.
3Reliability
If the detection tool requires significant forcing torque to rotate, then the spring portion can reliably detect proper engagement, but the tool becomes more difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring portion that provides dynamic response to the reaction torque generated during connection. The spring can deflect within a specific range to accommodate variations in engagement force while maintaining reliable detection. The spring's elastic properties allow the tool to adapt to different connection conditions, providing reliable detection without requiring excessive forcing torque from the operator.
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 tool effectively confirms proper engagement of fluid lines by detecting the reaction torque and preventing false indications, ensuring secure and reliable connections.
Implementation Method 1
a spring portion (114) coupled to the hub portion (110) and to the handle portion (112). The spring portion (114) is configured to allow relative rotational movement between the hub portion (110) and the handle portion (112)
Implementation Method 2
The electrical circuit includes a light source. In an exemplary embodiment, the light source includes a light emitting diode
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for confirming the connection status of a fluid line to a quick-connect fluid coupling assembly includes a hub portion configured to interface with an outer portion of the fluid line, a finger coupled to the hub portion, a handle portion, a spring portion coupled to the hub portion and to the handle portion, and an indicating means. When the tool is placed in contact with the fluid line, a biasing force is applied to the tool in an axial direction, and a torque is applied to the handle portion to rotate the handle portion by a predetermined amount about the longitudinal axis of the fluid line, the finger cooperates with the retaining clip to produce a reaction torque to activate the indicating means when the fluid line is properly connected to the fluid coupling assembly.