Reciprocal Connector Assembly for Stable Tool-Free Fitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing male and female fitting systems lack simultaneous presence of both connectors in each part, leading to unstable fixation, limited universality, and inefficient disconnection, particularly in objects that require frequent assembly and disassembly, and do not allow for standardized connections across different products.
Innovation Solution
A reciprocal fitting system with male and female connectors in each part, featuring complementary retainers, allowing for universal connection and stable fixation without the need for tools, using materials like metals, polymers, and rubberized materials, with geometric configurations ensuring easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional male and female fitting systems are used where each part has only one type of connector, then the structure is simple, but the fixation stability is poor and universality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both male and female connectors into each individual part, creating a unified connector structure that integrates previously separate components. This merging allows each part to function as both male and female connector simultaneously, improving fixation stability through dual-connector engagement while maintaining structural efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Each part is designed with both male and female connectors, enabling universal compatibility across all parts in the system. This multi-functionality allows any part to connect with any other part regardless of orientation or position, significantly enhancing system universality and adaptability without requiring different connector types for different components
2Reliability
If additional retainers are added to increase fixation, then connection strength improves, but disconnection becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed with elastic material and configurable geometry (such as spring-loaded or flexible arms) that allows it to dynamically adapt during connection and disconnection. During assembly, the retainer flexes to engage with the complementary part, providing strong fixation. During disassembly, the elastic properties enable the retainer to flex outward, allowing easy manual release without tools while maintaining strong connection during use
3Reliability
If connectors are made larger to ensure effective locking, then connection stability improves, but material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes composite construction combining rigid structural elements for locking engagement with elastic retainer components. This composite approach allows compact dimensions while maintaining locking effectiveness through the synergistic combination of rigid geometry and elastic retention forces, reducing overall material usage compared to purely rigid large connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes connector dimensions and retainer geometry parameters to achieve maximum locking effectiveness in minimal space. By carefully adjusting parameters such as retainer spring constant, engagement angle, and connector profile, the design achieves effective locking with compact size, minimizing material consumption while maintaining reliability
4Adaptability or versatility
If frequent assembly and disassembly is required, then adaptability improves, but connection stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic retainer is designed to automatically reset and re-engage after each connection cycle without manual intervention. The self-service mechanism maintains connection stability through repeated use, with the elastic material providing consistent retention force that adapts to wear and usage cycles, ensuring reliable fixation even after frequent assembly and disassembly operations
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting system with at least two connecting pieces that fit together. The connecting pieces comprise a male connector and a female connector simultaneously in the same part, and have additional retainers. This fitting system can be coupled to various products such as storage recipients or packages in various areas (cosmetics, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, etc.).