Quick Connector Retainer Structure for Low Pipe Insertion Load
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors require high insertion loads due to the need for leg portions to expand and allow the annular protrusion of the pipe to pass through, which increases the force required for pipe insertion.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design featuring a retainer with first and second leg portions, where the first leg portions are not or only slightly expandable, and the second leg portions are more expandable, allowing the retainer to move to an insertion position without initial expansion, reducing the insertion load by utilizing a return force for retraction and engagement at the confirmation position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pair of leg portions are made expandable to allow the annular protrusion to pass through, then the pipe can be inserted to the regular position, but the insertion load increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is divided into two functional segments: the pair of first leg portions that remain substantially non-expandable during insertion, and the pair of second leg portions that are expandable. This segmentation allows the non-expandable first leg portions to maintain low insertion load while the expandable second leg portions provide engagement capability at the confirmation position.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the retainer are given different expandability properties: the first leg portions have low expandability to minimize insertion force, while the second leg portions have high expandability to enable positive engagement. This local differentiation of mechanical properties resolves the contradiction between ease of insertion and secure engagement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pair of leg portions expand greatly to allow the annular protrusion to pass, then the pipe insertion is enabled, but the force required for expansion corresponds to high insertion load
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer structure is segmented into first and second leg portions with different mechanical characteristics. The first leg portions provide guidance and support with minimal expansion, while the second leg portions provide expandable engagement, separating the guidance function from the engagement function to reduce overall expansion force requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer transitions from a static engagement structure to a dynamic one where the second leg portions can expand and contract. This dynamic behavior allows the retainer to adapt to the pipe insertion process: remaining compact during insertion (low force) and expanding only when needed for engagement (confirmation position).
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 reduces the insertion load of the pipe by allowing the retainer to move to the insertion position against the return force, separating the insertion and confirmation operations, and providing effective prevention against pipe disengagement.
Implementation Method 1
The pair of first leg portions have first taper surfaces, at distal end sides of the pair of first leg portions, on surfaces on the side to which the first pipe is to be inserted. The first taper surfaces cause the retainer to move from the initial position to the insertion position by an axial-direction pressing force from the annular protrusion
Implementation Method 2
The retainer has a return force for returning to the initial position in a state in which the retainer is at the insertion position
Data Source
AI summary
A pair of first leg portions of a retainer have first taper surfaces at distal end sides on surfaces on the side to which a first pipe is to be inserted. The first taper surfaces cause the retainer to move from an initial position to an insertion position by an axial-direction pressing force from an annular protrusion, during a period until the first pipe is inserted to a regular position. During the period until the first pipe is inserted to the regular position, a pair of second leg portions restrict the retainer from moving from the initial position to a confirmation position. In a state in which the first pipe is inserted to the regular position, the pair of second leg portions allow the retainer to move from the initial position to the confirmation position.