Quick Connector Latch Verification Using Scannable Code
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick connectors often fail to ensure proper latching connections, leading to leaks and failed connections due to misalignment or incomplete locking of components.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design that incorporates a scannable code, readable by a scanning device, which becomes visible only when the latch member is fully engaged, verifying the proper installation and latching of the pipe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional quick connectors are used without verification mechanisms, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of the connection is poor leading to leaks and failed connections
Solution Approach 1:
A code reader device serves as an intermediary between the quick connector components and the verification system. The code reader scans codes on the connector components and provides feedback on proper assembly, allowing verification without adding mechanical complexity to the connector itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical verification methods (visual inspection, tactile confirmation) with an optical/electronic system using scannable codes and code readers. This substitution provides more reliable verification while keeping the mechanical connector design simple
2Measurement precision
If no verification method is provided, then the ease of operation is high, but the measurement precision of latching status is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connector components themselves carry the verification information through codes printed or attached to them. The system serves itself by embedding the verification data in the components, eliminating the need for external verification tools or complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
Physical inspection of latching status is replaced with optical scanning of codes. The code reader uses light and image processing to determine connection status, providing precise measurement without requiring manual disassembly or complex mechanical indicators
3Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used to verify connection, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity is reduced due to time-consuming verification processes
Solution Approach 1:
Manual visual and tactile inspection is replaced with automated optical code scanning. The code reader quickly captures and processes code images to determine connection status, dramatically reducing verification time while keeping the added system complexity minimal
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the connection is copied into a machine-readable code format. Instead of directly inspecting the physical connection, the system reads a code that represents the connection status, enabling rapid automated verification
Data Source
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AI summary
This disclosure relates to a quick connector adapted to display a code that verifies that a latch member is engaged to retain an installed pipe to the quick connector. The quick connector comprises a connector body 11 having a receiving portion 12 surrounding an internal passage 16, the internal passage 16 arranged to receive the pipe 7 therein. A latch member 30 retained on the receiving portion 12 is arranged to be movable between a pipe insertion position and a latched position. In the pipe insertion position, the latch member 30 allows the pipe 7 to be inserted into the internal passage 16. A code readable by a scanning device becomes readable when the latch member 30 is moved to the latched position verifying that the pipe 7 is installed and latched in the connector body 11.