Segmented Fluid Connector Assembly for Tight Engine Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
In applications like motor vehicle engine compartments, where space is limited, existing multiple couplings face difficulties in installation and coupling due to adjacent components, especially when handling hose lines connected to plug-in coupling parts.
Innovation Solution
A plate-like coupling part is designed as separate, identical molded parts that can be handled from different directions, allowing better maneuverability and coupling, with screws used to fix the parts in a common plane, and optionally featuring metal sleeves for screw passages to distribute tightening force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a multiple coupling with several plug-in coupling parts is used to enable simultaneous coupling of several media lines, then productivity is improved, but the device becomes difficult to handle and install in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling part is divided into multiple separate molded parts (first molded part, second molded part, etc.), each holding a subset of plug-in coupling parts. This segmentation allows the components to be handled and inserted from different directions independently, solving the problem of difficulty in handling a monolithic coupling structure in confined spaces while still enabling simultaneous coupling of multiple media lines.
2Ease of manufacture
If the coupling part is designed as a single integrated structure, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different installation configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling part is segmented into multiple molded parts that can be produced using standard injection molding processes. Each molded part is designed to hold a specific subset of plug-in coupling parts, allowing flexible arrangement and installation from different directions while maintaining compatibility with conventional manufacturing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The molded parts are designed with universal features such as through-openings for screws and receptacles for plug-in coupling parts, allowing them to serve multiple functions: structural support, positioning, and secure fastening. This multi-functionality enables adaptability to various installation configurations without requiring specialized components.
3Strength
If screws are used to fix the molded parts together, then joining strength is improved, but the plastic material may be damaged by excessive tightening force
Solution Approach 1:
Metal sleeves are introduced as intermediary elements between the screws and the plastic molded parts. The sleeves are inserted into the through-openings of the molded parts and provide a harder surface that can withstand the tightening force of the screws without deforming or damaging the plastic material, while still allowing secure fastening of the molded parts together.
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The unit (1) is assembled of a rectangular base (2) with four sockets (6) for joining pipes or tubes used for the transport of fluid or gaseous substances. The connector pieces (10) can be designed as angle elements with a plug at one side and a tube connection at the opposite end. The base (2) can be separated into two parts (2a,2b) if required, each part (2a,2b) fitted with a socket (12) at the back for being joined to other units. Screws can be guided through openings (20) reinforced with metal sleeves.