Quick-Release Connector Locking Ring Against Accidental Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid cooling system pipeline connectors are difficult to operate in narrow spaces due to screw-lock mechanisms, and existing quick-release connectors lack effective locking mechanisms to prevent accidental separation.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release connector switch device that includes a first connector with an annular groove, a second connector with a radial chute, and a pressing fastener with a locking and unlocking position, controlled by an annular switch to prevent accidental separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw-locked connector is used, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the operation becomes difficult in narrow spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components: a first connector with an annular groove, a second connector with a radial chute, and a pressing fastener that moves independently between locking and unlocking positions. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to be actuated by a simple linear pressing motion rather than requiring rotational manipulation of a screw, making it easier to operate in narrow spaces while maintaining secure connection when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a rotational screw mechanism where tightening creates the lock, this invention inverts the approach by using a linear pressing motion that moves the fastener between positions. The locking action is achieved by the snap portion engaging the annular groove when the fastener is in the locking position, rather than by threaded engagement. This inversion simplifies the operating motion while maintaining connection security.
2Ease of operation
If a quick-release locking sleeve is used, then the connecting and separating operation is simplified, but both hands are required for operation which is still inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and unlocking functions are segmented into distinct positions of the pressing fastener rather than requiring manipulation of a separate locking sleeve. The fastener itself serves as both the locking element and the actuating element, eliminating the need for a separate locking sleeve operation that would require two hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing fastener is designed to automatically engage the locking position through the action of the pressing spring, which pushes the fastener from the unlocking position to the locking position. This self-locking mechanism eliminates the need for a second hand to secure the connection, allowing one-handed operation while maintaining ease of connecting and separating.
3Ease of operation
If a fastener is provided for quick release, then one-hand operation is enabled, but accidental touching or squeezing may cause unexpected separation
Solution Approach 1:
The annular switch is designed to be operated in advance to change the state of the pressing fastener before the actual separation action is needed. By rotating the switch to the opening position, the system prepares the fastener to be pressable, and only then does the user need to press the fastener for separation. This preliminary action prevents accidental separation because the fastener remains in a non-pressable state during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular switch acts as an intermediary control element between the user's intent to separate connectors and the actual pressing of the fastener. The switch must be rotated to the opening position first, which then enables the pressing action. This intermediary step prevents accidental activation because the fastener cannot be pressed to cause separation unless the switch has been deliberately positioned to allow it.
4Productivity
If the pressing fastener is always pressable, then quick release is always available, but accidental separation occurs from unintended contact
Solution Approach 1:
The pressability of the fastener is made dynamic rather than static. The annular switch controls whether the fastener is in a pressable state or a non-pressable state. When the switch is in the closing position, the convex surface prevents the fastener from being pressed, effectively disabling the quick-release function. When the switch is rotated to the opening position, the fastener becomes pressable, enabling quick release. This dynamic control maintains productivity when needed while ensuring reliability during normal operation.
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
The device allows for easy operation of the quick-release connector by rotating the annular switch, effectively preventing unexpected separation of the connectors from accidental contact, while ensuring secure connection when needed.
Implementation Method 1
a pressing spring is disposed between the pressing fastener and the second pipe body to push the pressing fastener moving from the unlocking position to the locking position
Implementation Method 2
the annular switch is configured to rotate relative to the radial chute to provide with an opening position and a closing position. When the annular switch is located at the closing position, the pressing fastener aligns the convex surface, and the convex surface abuts the pressing fastener so that the pressing fastener is not capable of being pressed
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-release connector switch device, for being equipped with a quick-release connector, includes an annular switch. The quick-release connector includes a first connector, a second connector and a pressing fastener, the first connector includes a first pipe body, the second connector includes a second pipe tube provided with a radial chute. The annular switch includes an annular chute, a through hole and a convex surface, the annular switch is rotatably sleeved on the second pipe body, the annular chute aligns with the radial chute for the pressing fastener passing through, and the annular switch rotates relative to the radial chute to have an opening position and a closing position. When at the opening position, the pressing fastener aligns with the through hole to be capable of being pressed. When at the closing position, the pressing fastener aligns the convex surface to be abutted and not capable of being pressed.