Quick-Lock Tube Connector With Deformable Threaded Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing connection devices for fluid transport circuits require lengthy screwing into tapped wells for installation, which is inefficient and may lead to misalignment or damage during the process.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with elastically deformable arms and a tubular lock that allows insertion without screwing, providing secure locking and sealing without operator intervention, facilitated by a locking mechanism that deforms under thread engagement and produces a noise-indicating sound for complete insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional screwing method is used to install connection device into tapped well, then secure connection is achieved, but installation time is excessive and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device employs dynamic arms that can deform elastically during insertion and then lock into position. The arms transition from a deformable state during insertion to a locked state that prevents extraction, enabling quick installation without traditional screwing while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device performs self-locking through the deformation and positioning of its arms. When inserted into the tapped well, the arms automatically deform and lock into place, and the locking mechanism engages without requiring additional operator intervention or tools, significantly reducing installation time.
2Loss of time
If quick insertion method with deformable arms is used, then installation time is reduced, but reliability of connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The arms are designed to be elastically deformable during insertion to accommodate the quick-connect mechanism, but once locked, they maintain a stable locked position that ensures reliable connection. The dynamic behavior during insertion transitions to a static locked state that guarantees connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The arms are pre-configured with elastic deformation capability that allows them to flex during insertion and then automatically lock into position. This preliminary design ensures that the quick insertion process inherently provides reliable locking without requiring additional verification or adjustment steps.
3Ease of operation
If traditional screwing process is used, then proper alignment is maintained, but risk of misalignment or damage during installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable arms provide a buffer that absorbs misalignment during insertion. The arms can flex and adjust to accommodate slight variations in alignment, reducing the risk of damage to the connection device or the tapped well while maintaining ease of operation.
4Reliability
If locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental extraction, then connection security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the arms themselves. The arms serve dual purposes: they provide the deformable connection interface and simultaneously function as the locking mechanism. When the arms deform and lock into position, they inherently prevent extraction without requiring a separate locking component.
Solution Approach 2:
The arms are designed to perform multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable elastic deformation during insertion, create the locking action, and prevent accidental extraction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and maintains relatively simple device architecture while ensuring connection security.
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
Enables quick and secure installation of the connection device into the tapped well, preventing accidental extraction and ensuring proper sealing and connection without the need for extensive screwing, while allowing for easy reuse.
Implementation Method 1
said first end section of the body comprising substantially axial slots delimiting therebetween elastically deformable arms between a state of rest in which the arms delimit a nominal thread diameter substantially equal to the nominal thread diameter and a deformed condition in which the nominal thread diameter is less than the inside diameter of the thread
Implementation Method 2
A tubular lock is mounted in the body to slide axially between an unlocked position in which the lock has a first end section released from the arms to leave them free to deform and a locking position in which the first end section of the lock is facing the arms to oppose their deformation
Implementation Method 3
the tube end portion bearing against the lock when it is introduced into the body to bring it into said locking position
Data Source
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AI summary
Connection device, comprising a tubular body provided internally with connecting means for securing thereto an end portion of a tube and provided externally with a threaded surface portion extending on a first end section of the body which comprises elastically deformable arms between an idle state wherein the arms define a nominal thread diameter which is substantially equal to the nominal tapping diameter and a deformed state wherein the nominal thread diameter is smaller than the internal tapping diameter. A tubular lock is mounted in the body to slide axially between an unlocking position wherein the lock allows the arms to be free to deform and a locking position wherein the lock resists the deformation of the arms, the tube end portion bearing against the lock when it is inserted into the body to bring it into the locking position.