Segmented Retainer Fluid Connection for Low-Force Leak Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connectors for refrigeration lines require high assembly force, are costly, and can lead to hazardous refrigerant leaks due to insecure connections and easy disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection assembly featuring a retainer with radially inward and outward flanges and a locking mechanism that allows for quick assembly and disassembly without tools, ensuring secure attachment of tubes to connector bodies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded nuts are used to secure tubes to connector bodies, then connections can be secured, but very large assembly force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is divided into multiple circumferentially separated sections (first section and second section) that can be independently positioned and assembled. This segmentation allows the retainer to be installed in stages, reducing the peak assembly force required compared to a single-piece rigid connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer sections are designed to be displaceable relative to each other during assembly, transitioning from a separated state to a locked state. This dynamic assembly process allows the sections to progressively engage with the connector body and tube, distributing the assembly force over time and space rather than requiring all force simultaneously.
2Reliability
If threaded nuts are used for fluid connections, then connections can be secured, but sealing issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the sealing function from the traditional threaded nut design and places it directly into the retainer structure. The retainer's first and second sections create sealing interfaces with the connector body and tube respectively, eliminating reliance on threaded nut sealing which is prone to leakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer sections feature curved or rounded contact surfaces that conform to the cylindrical geometry of the connector body and tube. This curved interface design distributes sealing pressure more evenly compared to the point-contact threading, improving sealing reliability and preventing refrigerant leaks.
3Reliability
If traditional fluid connection assemblies are used, then connections can be made, but they are expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented retainer design allows for simplified manufacturing of each individual section. The first and second sections can be produced separately using cost-effective processes and then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to producing a single complex threaded nut assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical retention, sealing, and locking functions. This consolidation of multiple functions into a single component reduces the total number of parts needed, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving connection reliability.
4Strength
If traditional connection assemblies are used, then connections can be secured, but they require tools and take a long time to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer sections are designed to self-lock into place through their relative displacement and engagement features. The assembly process does not require external tools or complex operations - the sections naturally secure themselves when brought together, enabling rapid tool-free assembly while maintaining strong connections.
5Ease of operation
If traditional fluid connectors are used, then connections can be made, but they can be easily disconnected allowing refrigerant leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer sections are pre-configured with engagement features and displacement paths that automatically engage when assembled. This preliminary design ensures that once assembled, the connection is inherently secure and resistant to accidental disconnection, preventing refrigerant leaks without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid connection assembly including a connector body, and a retainer, including a first end removably connectable to the connector body, a second end, a first radially outward facing surface extending from the first end to the second end, a first radially inward facing surface extending from the first end to the second end, a first flange extending radially inward from the first end, and a second flange extending radially inward from the second end, wherein at least one of the first flange and the second flange includes a plurality of circumferentially separated sections.