Fluid Line Quick Connector With Scan-Visible Connection Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors for fluid lines require person-dependent visual and physical verification to ensure proper connection, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors, especially in applications where access is limited or criticality is high.
Innovation Solution
A fluid line quick connector design incorporating a housing, data matrix, and retainer that obstructs or reveals the data matrix based on the spigot's insertion position, allowing remote verification of connection status without physical contact, enabling automated and robotic inspection and assembly processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual verification methods are used to confirm proper connection, then connection status can be verified, but the process requires physical interaction and person-dependent viewing which is time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual verification with an automated optical sensing system. A sensor detects the presence or absence of the quick connector coupling, and this detection signal automatically indicates connection status, eliminating the need for person-dependent visual inspection and reducing verification time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary indication mechanism (such as a visible indicator or sensor-detectable feature) that translates the physical connection state into a detectable signal. This intermediary allows remote verification without direct physical interaction with the connector, solving both the time-consuming and error-prone aspects of manual verification.
2Reliability
If physical interaction and viewing are required to verify connection, then connection status can be confirmed, but the method is person-dependent and not suitable for automated or robotic processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual verification with an automated sensing system that uses optical sensors or other non-contact detection methods. The system automatically detects whether the quick connector is properly coupled and provides a reliable signal, enabling integration with automated and robotic assembly processes while maintaining verification reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connector assembly includes built-in indication features (such as optical indicators or sensor targets) that automatically provide verification information without requiring external human intervention. The system serves itself by providing its own verification status, enabling automated processes to confirm connection reliability without person-dependent viewing.
3Extent of automation
If remote verification is enabled without physical contact, then automation and robotic inspection can be used, but additional components like data matrices and retainers are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into existing connector components. For example, a retainer component serves both its primary retention function and acts as an obstacle that blocks visual or sensor detection when the connector is uncoupled. The housing structure provides both mechanical support and serves as the indicator surface. This multi-functionality enables automated verification without adding separate dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the verification indication function with existing structural elements of the quick connector. The data matrix or indicator is integrated into the housing or retainer components that already exist for mechanical function. By combining verification features with structural components, the patent enables automated inspection capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid line quick connector has a retainer and a data matrix. The retainer is caused to move via a spigot upon insertion of the spigot within the fluid line quick connector. The data matrix is obstructed by the retainer when the spigot is not inserted in the fluid line quick connector, and is revealed when the spigot is inserted in the fluid line quick connector. When obstructed, a suitable reading and scanning of the data matrix cannot take place. And when revealed, in contrast, a suitable reading and scanning of the data matrix can occur.