Sliding-Lock Quick Connector for Compact Leak-Proof Pipe Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connectors for fluid pipelines are not compact enough to meet the requirements of applications with limited installation space and often require manual operation to secure the connection, which can lead to leakage and increased assembly time.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design featuring a sleeving component with a sliding lock that radially elastically deforms to automatically move into a locked position upon fluid pipeline insertion, providing a visual mistake-proofing function and eliminating the need for manual operation to secure the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded fastener is used to connect fluid pipelines, then leak-proof sealing is ensured, but assembly time increases due to requiring two wrenches
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connector enables self-service connection where the pipeline automatically locks into place through elastic deformation of the connector body, eliminating the need for manual fastening operations with wrenches and reducing assembly time while maintaining seal integrity
2Loss of time
If a quick connector with automatic locking is used, then assembly time is reduced, but the risk of accidental locking during insertion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a preliminary anti-action mechanism where the elastic deformation required for locking only occurs after the pipeline is fully inserted and positioned correctly, preventing accidental locking during the insertion process while enabling automatic locking upon proper installation
3Productivity
If existing quick connector designs are used, then connection speed is improved, but the connector size is too large for compact installation spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes parameter changes through elastic deformation of its body, allowing a compact structure to achieve the necessary radial expansion for locking and sealing functions, thereby reducing overall connector size while maintaining quick connection capability
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
The compact quick connector ensures a leak-proof connection without manual operation, reducing assembly time and preventing accidental locking during insertion, while maintaining a secure and reliable fluid pipeline connection.
Implementation Method 1
the sliding lock is configured to radially elastically deform towards the outside of the sleeving component via mechanical interference with an end of the fluid pipeline during the insertion of the fluid pipeline into the sleeving component
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connector comprises a sleeving component and a sliding lock. The sleeving component comprises a stop part configured to stop the automatic moving of the sliding lock toward the interior of the sleeve component in the transverse direction when a fluid pipeline is inserted into the sleeving component, and release the stopping of the sliding block when the fluid pipeline is completely pushed into a main body of the sleeving component. The sliding lock further comprises at least one locking hook, and the locking hooks matches a locking catch arranged in the main body of the sleeving component. When a fluid pipeline is completely pushed into the main body of the sleeving component, the locking hooks moves around the locking catch and finally surrounds the locking catch.