Quick Connector Latch Verification Using a Scannable Code
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick connectors often fail to ensure a secure connection, leading to leaks due to incomplete locking, as they lack a reliable method to verify proper assembly.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design that incorporates a scannable code visible only when the latch member is fully engaged, allowing verification through a scanning device that the pipe is properly installed and locked, using partial codes aligned or uncovered as the latch moves to the latched position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional quick connectors are used without verification mechanism, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of connection is poor leading to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
A scannable code (barcode or QR code) is introduced as an intermediary verification element. The code is positioned on the connector body and only becomes accessible/scannable when the latch member is fully engaged with the pipe, providing indirect verification of proper connection without adding complex sensors or detectors
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system performs self-verification through the scannable code mechanism. The proper engagement of the latch member automatically reveals the scannable code, allowing the system to self-confirm correct assembly without requiring external verification devices or complex sensing mechanisms
2Reliability
If a scannable code verification system is added, then the reliability of connection verification is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scannable code serves as a simple intermediary that translates the mechanical state of latch engagement into a machine-readable verification signal, adding minimal complexity while providing reliable verification
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex physical verification mechanisms, a visual copy (scannable code pattern) is used to represent the connection state. The code can be scanned and verified digitally without requiring physical measurement or complex sensing of the latch position
3Ease of operation
If the latch member is made movable between positions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the difficulty of detecting proper connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scannable code changes its accessibility state (visible/hidden) based on the latch member position, creating a visual indicator that clearly distinguishes between connected and disconnected states without requiring complex sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The scannable code acts as an intermediary indicator that translates the mechanical position of the latch member into a easily detectable visual signal, making connection status detection simple through scanning rather than requiring measurement of mechanical parameters
Data Source
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 having a receiving portion surrounding an internal passage, the internal passage arranged to receive the pipe therein. A latch member retained on the receiving portion is arranged to be movable between a pipe insertion position and a latched position. In the pipe insertion position, the latch member allows the pipe to be inserted into the internal passage. A code readable by a scanning device becomes readable when the latch member is moved to the latched position verifying that the pipe is installed and latched in the connector body.