Quick Connector for Radiator Hoses Using Chamfered Bushing and Locking Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connections between radiator hoses and radiators require significant manual effort for installation, removal, and replacement, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing and maintenance, and lack a simple, economical solution for providing a superior seal.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector system comprising a female coupling member with a bushing and locking ring, featuring chamfered surfaces and indentations, which securely attaches and detaches a male coupling member to provide a leakproof seal with minimal manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hose clamps or spring clips are used to secure radiator hoses, then the connection prevents leakage, but it requires considerable manual manipulation and time for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into separate male and female halves that can be independently attached to the radiator and hose respectively. The male coupling member features a barbed end that inserts into the female coupling member, allowing rapid connection without manual tightening of clips or bands.
Solution Approach 2:
The barbed end of the male coupling member automatically secures itself within the female coupling member through friction and mechanical interlocking, eliminating the need for separate tightening operations. The connection self-regulates to achieve a secure, leakproof seal.
2Reliability
If traditional hose clamps require precise placement and manual tightening, then the connection is secure, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The complex tightening mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simple barbed insertion system. The male coupling member's barbed end is inserted into the female coupling member, where it automatically engages and secures itself without requiring precise placement or manual tightening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system performs its own securing function through the mechanical interlocking of the barbed end with the female coupling member, eliminating the need for external tightening tools or manual adjustment.
3Ease of repair
If repeated removal and replacement of hoses is performed, then maintenance is achieved, but wear on the hose end increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system separates the radiator connection (male coupling member with barbed end) from the hose connection (female coupling member). This allows the hose to be detached from the radiator by simply releasing the female coupling member, which can be done multiple times without causing wear to the hose end itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The female coupling member acts as an intermediary between the hose and the male coupling member. Repeated connections and disconnections occur at the female coupling member rather than directly at the hose end, protecting the hose from wear while still allowing easy maintenance access.
4Productivity
If a quick-connect system is implemented, then installation speed increases, but achieving a superior leakproof seal becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is localized to specific features of the coupling members, such as the barbed end geometry and the interface between male and female coupling members. These localized features are designed to create effective seals through mechanical interlocking and friction, achieving leakproof connections without complex sealing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector coupling has either a linear or an angled female coupling member, a male coupling member which is attached to a radiator, a bushing, a sealing means, and a locking ring, which maintains the connection of the male coupling member and the female coupling member. The male member has at least one chamfered surface, which is complementary to a chamfered surface on the bushing element. The locking ring is disposed around the female coupling member and has a plurality of indentations which pass through apertures positioned around the collar end of the female member. These indentations interconnect with an annular groove around the male member when coupled to the female member, securing the connection.