Quick Connector Lock Indication Sleeve for Leak Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors do not effectively indicate whether they are correctly connected, leading to potential disconnection and fluid leakage.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design that includes a connector body, a locking member with a locking leg that moves from an unlocking to a locking position, and a shielding sleeve that moves relative to the connector body to indicate correct connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a self-locking quick connector is used to achieve automatic locking, then the connection speed and simplicity are improved, but the ability to indicate correct connection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback mechanism through a color-coded indication ring that changes position or color to show whether the quick connector is correctly locked. This feedback system allows users to immediately verify connection status without additional tools or steps, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary indication component (the indication ring with color-coded segments) that mediates between the locking mechanism and the user. This intermediary element translates the internal locking state into an externally visible signal, enabling users to understand connection status without directly observing internal components
2Device complexity
If the locking leg moves automatically during insertion, then the locking process is simplified, but the reliability of correct locking is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The visual indication system provides immediate feedback on whether the automatic locking process completed successfully. The indication ring's position or color change confirms that the locking leg has reached its final locked position, allowing users to verify reliability without increasing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary design features in the locking mechanism that ensure proper engagement before final locking occurs. The mechanical interference fit and guided movement paths are designed to pre-position components correctly, increasing the probability of successful locking while maintaining automatic operation
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 design allows for effective identification of correct connection, preventing subsequent loosening and fluid leakage by ensuring the plug-in member is correctly locked.
Implementation Method 1
the locking member including a locking leg for locking the plug-in member to the connector body, the locking leg being configured to automatically move from an unlocking position to a locking position due to mechanical interference with the plug-in member during the insertion of the plug-in member into the connector body
Implementation Method 2
the shielding sleeve is configured to be actuated by the locking leg and moved relative to the connector body during the axial movement and the transverse movement of the locking leg
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector includes: a connector body for an plug-in member to be inserted therein, the connector body including an indication part; a locking member including a locking leg for locking the plug-in member to the connector body, a movement of the locking leg from an unlocking position to a locking position including an axial movement along insertion direction of the plug-in member and a transverse movement toward the locking position along a transverse direction of the connector body; and a shielding sleeve sleeved outside the connector body. The shielding sleeve is actuated by the locking leg and moved relative to the connector body during the axial and transverse movements. The shielding sleeve is in an initial position when the locking leg is in the unlocking position and in an indication position when the locking leg is in the locking position.