Rotational Quick Connector Locking Mechanism for Injector Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick connector devices for connecting a return hose to an injector port are difficult to assemble and repair, particularly for inexperienced users, and can suffer damage during the process due to improper alignment and stress on the locking mechanism.
Innovation Solution
The quick connector device features a locking member with a handle and rib receiving grooves, along with second bump receiving spaces and bumps, which allows for secure coupling and easy disconnection, preventing component damage and enabling clear determination of the lock/unlock state through rotational positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking member is pushed linearly toward the connector body to couple the injector port, then the connection is secured, but the locking member and injector port are prone to damage and difficult to disassemble
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static linear push to a dynamic rotational motion. The locking member rotates around the injector port connector, with the locking protrusion moving along a circular path that engages with the locking groove, converting linear insertion force into rotational locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of pushing the locking member linearly along the insertion axis, the design inverts the locking action by using rotational motion perpendicular to the insertion direction. The locking protrusion engages the locking groove through rotation rather than linear advancement, reducing stress on the components.
2Ease of operation
If the injector port connector is inserted before the locking member is pushed, then connection is established, but inexperienced users may not follow proper assembly procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is pre-formed with the locking groove and positioning features before assembly. The injector port connector includes pre-positioned locking protrusions that automatically align with the locking groove during insertion, eliminating the need for users to manually coordinate multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function and connection function are merged into a single rotational motion of the locking member. The locking protrusion and locking groove work together as an integrated mechanism that provides both positioning and locking in one action, simplifying the user interface.
3Ease of manufacture
If the locking member uses a simple bump shape for engagement, then manufacturing is simplified, but disassembly becomes difficult and components are prone to breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: the locking protrusion on the injector port connector, the locking groove on the locking member, and the support rib structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining manufacturability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support rib acts as an intermediary element between the locking protrusion and the connector body. It distributes the engagement forces across a larger area and provides structural support during both assembly and disassembly, preventing stress concentration that could lead to component failure.
4Reliability
If the locking member is designed for secure locking, then connection reliability is improved, but the elastic member may deform during lock state causing instability
Solution Approach 1:
The support rib is pre-positioned to provide cushioning and support to the elastic member during the locked state. It prevents excessive deformation by distributing the locking forces before they can cause instability, maintaining both security and stability simultaneously.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~5a
Figure 5b~7a
AI summary
The present invention provides a quick connector device that includes: a connector body that has two fluid hose connectors located at two ends and an injector port connector located at a middle bottom section thereof; a locking member that is inserted into and rotatably connected to the injector port connector of the connector body and detachably coupled to the injector port; and an o-ring that is coupled to the injector port connector of the connector body and provides a sealing to the injector port. The connector body includes a support rib and a receiving space that securely maintain the locked state and allow the technician to easily assemble/disassemble the device. The quick connector device allows the technician to determine whether the device is in the locked or unlocked state based on the angular position of the locking member.