RFID Quick Connector Verification for Secure Fluid Line Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connector technologies lack a reliable and efficient method for verifying the secure connection of male and female members in fluid line systems, which is crucial for ensuring a sealed and reliable fluid line assembly, especially in applications like automotive systems where quick and secure connections are essential.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and antenna within the quick connector coupling, which changes signal states from unverified to verified upon proper alignment and connection of the male and female members, allowing for wireless verification of the connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional quick connector coupling methods are used, then assembly speed is fast and structure is simple, but connection verification capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is nested within the connector body, with the antenna integrated into the housing and the RFID chip embedded in a circuit board inside the connector. This nesting approach allows the verification system to be incorporated without significantly increasing the external dimensions or visual complexity of the connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag serves as an intermediary element that enables wireless verification of the connection status. Instead of direct mechanical or electrical verification mechanisms, the RFID system provides indirect verification through signal detection, simplifying the overall verification process while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If verification mechanisms are added to quick connectors, then connection status can be confirmed, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is pre-installed and integrated into the connector body during manufacturing, rather than being added as a separate verification step. The antenna is embedded in the housing and the RFID chip is mounted on the circuit board before final assembly, so that verification capability is already prepared and requires no additional time during the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID system provides automatic verification capability that can detect connection status without requiring manual inspection or additional verification steps. The system self-verify through wireless signal detection, eliminating the need for operators to spend time on manual connection status checks.
3Ease of operation
If RFID verification system is integrated, then wireless verification is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connections for the connector components and simultaneously hosts the RFID chip that enables wireless verification. The housing structure serves both mechanical support and as the substrate for embedding the antenna. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate verification system components, simplifying manufacturing.
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
This solution enables reliable and efficient verification of the connection, ensuring a secure and sealed fluid line assembly by providing a wireless verification method that confirms the proper engagement of the male and female members, enhancing the reliability and speed of fluid line connections.
Implementation Method 1
a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and an antenna electrically connected to the RFID chip to form a first circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector coupling for making a severable connection with a male member and a female tube 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 and having an upset, a retainer releasably securing the male member within the connector body, and a verifier including a conductor and moving between a verified position and an unverified position inside the connector body. The connector body includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and an antenna electrically connected to the RFID chip to form a first circuit. In the unverified position of the verifier, the RFID chip electrically connected to the antenna sends an unverified signal through the antenna, and when the verifier is moved in the verified position, the RFID chip sends a verified signal through the antenna.