Quick Connector Outer Spacer Flexing for High Pressure Seals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connector designs for high-pressure applications, such as power steering and brake systems, face excessive axial loading during installation due to the interaction between the outer spacer legs and the retainer ring, which complicates the insertion process and may lead to instability under high pressure and vibration.
Innovation Solution
The design separates the axial insertion forces from the outer spacer legs, allowing even distribution of fluid pressure and minimizing the assembly force required, with a symmetrical outer spacer and a retainer system that flexes radially inward to accommodate the tube, ensuring a secure seal and stability even under high pressure pulsation and vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the outer spacer legs contact the retainer ring during installation, then the connector components can be assembled together, but excessive axial loading occurs during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The outer spacer is divided into four separate legs that can flex independently. This segmentation allows each leg to accommodate the retainer ring separately, distributing the installation force and preventing excessive axial loading on the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer spacer legs are designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing them to dynamically adjust during installation. The legs can bend and flex to accommodate the retainer ring passing through, reducing the force required for assembly.
2Reliability
If the outer spacer sustains the axial load of fluid pressure, then the seal member is properly supported, but the assembly requires excessive force to install
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the outer spacer into multiple flexible legs, the structure can support fluid pressure loads while requiring less force for assembly. Each leg independently supports a portion of the load, maintaining reliability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer spacer legs are designed with specific flexibility parameters that allow them to be easily installed while maintaining the ability to sustain high fluid pressure loads. The material and geometric parameters are optimized to balance installation ease with operational strength.
3Ease of operation
If the locking members flex radially inward during assembly, then the tube upset can pass beyond the locking arms, but the retainer requires higher assembly force
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are designed with flexibility that allows them to dynamically flex radially inward during tube insertion. This dynamic behavior enables the tube upset to pass beyond the locking arms without requiring excessive assembly force.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are designed with specific geometric and material parameters that optimize their flexibility. This allows them to flex sufficiently during installation while maintaining their locking function under high pressure conditions.
4Ease of manufacture
If the connector components are made of molded plastic, then manufacturing is simplified, but the connector cannot withstand high pressure applications
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly uses a composite structure combining molded plastic components (outer spacer, retainer) with metal tube and seal members. This composite approach allows the plastic parts to provide structural support and flexibility while the metal components handle the high pressure loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate components with different material properties optimized for their specific functions. The molded plastic outer spacer and retainer provide flexibility and structural support, while separate seal members and metal tube handle the high pressure sealing and load-bearing requirements.
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 configuration reduces the assembly force needed for the quick connector, enhances stability, and maintains a fluid seal under high pressure conditions, including those found in automotive brake systems, by distributing fluid pressure evenly and minimizing the impact of vibration and temperature changes.
Implementation Method 1
The outer spacer consists of four compressive members or legs that flex inward during assembly and snap back outward and rest within a shoulder machined into the system component body
Implementation Method 2
The compression of the O-rings to the tube creates the seal
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector coupling to releasably connect a rigid tube into a hollow body component bore with a resilient seal member creating a fluid tight seal. A seat member retainer includes legs abutting the body component. It includes an insertion sleeve that receives the axial insertion forces to insert the seal member retainer into the bore. A protective cap is arranged to contain preassembled seal and retainer components for assembly onto the rigid tube.