Quick Connector Assembly Retaining Member Blocking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connector assemblies for automotive fuel systems face challenges in securely engaging and disengaging insertion members within receiving members due to complex mechanisms and potential misalignment issues, which can lead to leaks or improper connections.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector assembly featuring a retaining member that moves within a retaining slot, assisted by a positioning member with a biasing portion that blocks or allows the retaining member's full insertion based on the insertion direction of the annular collar, ensuring secure engagement and proper assembly by moving blocking portions out of the way.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a retaining member is inserted perpendicular to the longitudinal axis to secure the insertion member, then the connection stability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for precise alignment and blocking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent blocking portions (first blocking portion, second blocking portion) that can move independently. This segmentation allows each blocking portion to be activated by specific features on the insertion member (annular collar, shaft portion), simplifying the overall control mechanism while maintaining stable connection through multiple blocking points.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning member with blocking portions is pre-configured in the receiving member to automatically engage with features on the insertion member during the insertion process. The blocking portions are preliminarily positioned to block the retaining member's path, and they automatically move out of the way when the insertion member is properly inserted, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If blocking portions are used to prevent misalignment, then the manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but the device complexity increases due to additional moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking portions are designed to be self-actuating through the insertion process itself. As the insertion member is pushed into the receiving member, its features (annular collar, shaft portion) automatically contact and move the blocking portions out of the way. This self-service mechanism reduces manufacturing precision requirements while avoiding the need for external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning member acts as an intermediary between the receiving member and the insertion member. It mediates the interaction by providing blocking portions that temporarily prevent retaining member insertion, then automatically clear the path when the insertion member is properly positioned, simplifying the overall assembly process without requiring high precision manufacturing.
3Reliability
If the retaining member is allowed to fully insert to engage the insertion member, then the connection reliability is improved, but misalignment risks increase during the insertion process
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking portions provide preliminary anti-action by preventing the retaining member from moving into position before the insertion member is properly aligned in the receiving member. This temporary blocking action counteracts the potential harm of misalignment, and only when the insertion member is correctly positioned do the blocking portions move away to allow full insertion and engagement.
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
This design ensures a secure and reliable connection by allowing the retaining member to fully insert and engage the insertion member, preventing leaks and ensuring proper assembly, while minimizing misalignment risks and enhancing connection stability.
Implementation Method 1
A positioning member is disposed in the axial bore and includes a base portion and a biasing portion biased towards the receiving member top. The blocking portions are movable between an extended position and a retracted position.
Data Source
AI summary
The quick connector assembly includes an insertion member that is inserted along a longitudinal axis into a receiving member. A retaining member is disposed in the receiving member for movement in a direction of insertion that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A positioning member is disposed in the receiving member and includes a biasing portion that extends angularly from a base portion to a pair of blocking portions. The blocking portions move between an extended position and a retracted position and are oriented opposite the direction of insertion of the retaining member to block the retaining member from moving into a fully inserted position when the biasing portion is in the extended position. An annular collar of the insertion member engages the blocking portions when the insertion member is axially inserted in the receiving member to move the blocking portions into the retracted position. As a result, the retaining member is free to be moved into the fully inserted position to secure the insertion member relative to receiving member.