Quick Connector Visual Lock Verification Through Indicator Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors for fuel and hydraulic systems lack visual cues for complete locking, making it difficult to determine if a secure connection is achieved, especially in noisy environments or due to human error.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect device with an indicating arm that extends radially outward through a viewing window when fully engaged, providing a visual cue for complete connection, and a clip arm that protrudes outside the outer circumference to indicate full coupling between the outer and middle locking portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a quick connector uses a twist lock mechanism that produces an audible sound upon complete locking, then the locking status can be detected, but the user may not hear the sound due to environmental noises or lack of attention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic detection mechanism (audible sound) with an optical detection mechanism (visual indicator). The visual indicator arm provides a visible signal that does not depend on acoustic transmission, thereby eliminating the problem of environmental noise interference while maintaining reliable detection of complete locking status.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a visual indicator arm that changes its positional state (extends or retracts) to provide visual feedback. This visual signal system allows operators to detect complete locking status through sight rather than sound, overcoming the limitations of auditory detection in noisy environments.
2Device complexity
If a quick connector provides only an audible sound for locking confirmation, then the structure remains simple, but the connector fails to provide visual cues for complete connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple detection functions into a single connector system. The visual indicator arm serves both as a structural component and as a visual signaling device. This multi-functionality approach provides both visual and structural roles to one element, maintaining relative simplicity while adding essential visual verification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional detection (audible sound in acoustic space) to two-dimensional detection by adding visual indication in spatial space. The indicator arm's extension and retraction provide visual information that complements the auditory signal, creating a multi-sensory detection system that improves ease of operation.
3Reliability
If operators rely on audible cues alone to determine complete connection, then human error increases due to missed signals, but adding visual indicators increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The visual indicator arm is designed to automatically extend or retract based on the engagement state of the quick connector. The system self-regulates the indicator position according to whether complete connection is achieved, eliminating the need for additional active control mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while improving reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and assemblies are provided for a quick connect device. In one example, a connector may include a first visual cue for coupling an outer portion to a middle portion and a second visual cue for coupling an inner portion to the middle portion.