RFID Tube Connection Sensing Through Retaining Ring Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connection systems lack a reliable method to verify secure connections, leading to potential leaks and serious consequences, especially in automotive and gas applications where improper connections can result in fluid loss or safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) fluid connection system that includes a tube with an RFID assembly and contacts on its radially outward facing surface, where the RFID tag is electrically connected only when the tube is properly secured to the fluid connector by a retaining ring, allowing for wireless verification of connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fluid connectors are used without verification mechanisms, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of connection security deteriorates leading to potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID assembly is integrated within the tube structure, with the RFID tag embedded in the wall of the tube and contacts positioned inside the tube. This nesting approach allows the verification system to be incorporated without adding external components, thus improving reliability while minimizing increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the fluid connection function with the verification function into a single integrated system. The retaining ring serves both to secure the tube to the connector and to actuate the RFID assembly for verification, merging two functions into one component system
2Reliability
If RFID assembly is integrated into the tube structure, then connection verification capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is pre-installed and electrically connected to the contacts during tube manufacturing, before the tube is assembled with the connector and retaining ring. This preliminary integration simplifies the overall manufacturing process by reducing the number of assembly steps required for the verification system
Solution Approach 2:
The tube structure itself serves as part of the RFID assembly housing and mounting mechanism. The tube wall provides structural support for the RFID tag, and the tube's radial outward facing surface provides the mounting location for the RFID assembly, eliminating the need for separate mounting components
3Measurement precision
If contacts are positioned on the radially outward facing surface, then connection status detection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID system acts as an intermediary between the physical connection state and the verification of that state. The RFID tag and reader communicate the connection status wirelessly without requiring direct electrical contacts or complex sensing mechanisms, improving detection precision while avoiding additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical verification systems (such as electrical contacts or mechanical switches) with an RFID-based verification system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical sensing components while providing reliable connection status detection
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
Ensures secure fluid connections by enabling wireless verification of proper connection status, preventing leaks and ensuring safety in various applications, including automotive and gas systems, through the use of an RFID system that only indicates a closed state when the connection is secure.
Implementation Method 1
RFID uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects
Data Source
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AI summary
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) fluid connection, including a tube or hose (220), the tube or hose including a radially outward facing surface, a RFID assembly or label (260) connected the radially outward facing surface, including a RFID tag, and at least one contact electrically connected to the RFID tag.