Quick Connector Retainer Geometry for Low Tube Insertion Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors require high ergonomic force to install tubes due to the displacement of wire retainers, and using softer materials compromises retention strength.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design featuring a wire retainer with an oval cross-section, where the minor axis is 20-30% smaller than the major axis, reducing the insertion force required while maintaining robust retention through a camming action and a groove mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a wire retainer made of hard material is used to robustly retain the tube, then the retention strength is improved, but the insertion force required becomes excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
The wire retainer cross-section is changed from a symmetric circular shape to an asymmetric oval shape, with the minor axis being 20-30% smaller than the major axis. This asymmetry allows the retainer to be compressed more easily in the minor axis direction during insertion, reducing insertion force, while maintaining sufficient retention strength through the larger major axis dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the wire retainer cross-section are specifically modified to create an oval shape with controlled axis ratios. This parameter change optimizes the balance between insertion force (reduced by smaller minor axis) and retention strength (maintained by larger major axis), resolving the contradiction between these two opposing requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the wire retainer material is made softer to reduce insertion force, then the ease of operation is improved, but the retention capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric oval cross-section enables the retainer to exhibit direction-dependent mechanical properties during operation. The smaller minor axis provides ease of compression during insertion (improving ease of operation), while the larger major axis maintains structural integrity and retention capability (preventing deterioration of reliability).
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the cross-sectional geometry parameters to an oval shape with specific axis ratios (minor axis 20-30% smaller than major axis), the retainer achieves optimized performance where insertion force is reduced without compromising retention reliability, effectively resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and retention capability.
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 oval cross-section wire retainer significantly lowers the installation force needed, ensuring easy tube insertion while providing secure retention, as demonstrated by comparative force analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the first leg has a cross-section that has a first minor axis that is smaller than a second major axis
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for coupling a tube to a receptacle includes an endform formed on the end of the tube that is arranged to be inserted into the receptacle in a mounting position and slidable to a latched position. A retainer embraces the receptacle and includes first and second legs extending into the receptacle. The legs each have a cross section that has a first minor axis that is smaller than a second major axis. The endform engages the legs first minor axis urging the legs into a spread condition while the endform is sliding from the mounting position to the latched position. In the latched position the legs retract to a relaxed condition and are captured in a groove in the end form.