Quick Connector Verification for Leak-Proof Fluid Line Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick connectors often fail to establish reliable connections due to issues with locking components, leading to depressurization and leaks in fluid line systems, particularly in automotive and hybrid vehicle cooling circuits.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector coupling design featuring a connector body with a through bore, a retainer, and a verifier system that includes a verification element such as a QR code or barcode, which is hidden in the unlatched position and becomes readable when the connection is secure, ensuring proper assembly and providing information about the connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional quick connectors use simple locking mechanisms, then assembly is quick and easy, but connection reliability deteriorates leading to leaks and depressurization
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking elements (first locking element and second locking element) that engage with corresponding features on the tube. This segmentation allows each element to contribute to overall connection reliability while maintaining quick assembly through simple individual engagement actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to transition dynamically between engaged and disengaged states. The first locking element engages with the tube's external threading, while the second locking element provides additional securing, creating a dynamic multi-stage locking process that enhances reliability without significantly increasing assembly complexity.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If verification elements are always visible, then assembly status can be easily monitored, but the connector design becomes more complex and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The verification element is positioned in a recessed area of the connector body, utilizing the third dimension (depth) rather than occupying additional lateral space. This allows the verification element to be visible when needed (when the cap is removed or in certain angular positions) without adding to the overall footprint or structural complexity of the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap serves as an intermediary that controls the visibility of the verification element. When the cap is in place, it obscures the verification element; when removed or moved, the verification element becomes visible. This intermediary mechanism allows selective visibility without requiring complex transparent or movable verification element structures.
3Reliability
If multiple locking elements are used to improve reliability, then connection security increases, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is designed with integrated features that serve multiple functions: the external threading on the tube serves both as a structural component and as the engagement feature for the first locking element. The recessed area serves both as a structural feature and as the housing for the verification element. This multi-functionality reduces overall complexity despite the presence of multiple locking elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector coupling for making a severable connection with a male member in a fluid line includes a connector body having a through bore for receiving the male member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through bore of the connector body, a retainer releasably securing the male member within the connector body, and a verifier including at least one arm extending outside the connector body. Further, the verifier is coupled to the connector body and is moved to a latched position from an unlatched position when the male member is securely connected with the connector body. The connector body includes at least one verification element, which is at least partially covered by the at least one arm extending from the verifier in the unlatched position. The verification element of the connector body is uncovered and readable when the verifier is moved to the latched position.