Snap Connector Assembly With Single-Seal Hose Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional snap connectors for hoses and spigots require multiple sealing positions and significant mounting space, leading to potential leaks and inefficiencies, particularly in automotive applications where space is critical.
Innovation Solution
A compact connector assembly with a single sealing position is achieved by arranging tubular retaining members with an axial gap, where the sealing element is sandwiched between them, and utilizing angular ridges and radial protrusions for secure engagement, reducing the overall size and increasing friction to prevent disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional snap connectors use multiple sealing positions with O-rings at different retainers, then sealing coverage is improved, but the number of potential leak parts increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sealing functions into a single sealing element positioned between two retainers. Instead of having separate O-rings at each retainer, one sealing element performs the sealing function for both the first and second retainers, reducing the number of sealing positions from two to one while maintaining comprehensive sealing coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sealing element from the retainers themselves and positions it independently between the two retainers. This separation allows the sealing element to serve both retainers simultaneously, eliminating the need for integrated sealing features in each retainer and reducing overall complexity.
2Reliability
If conventional snap connectors provide robust sealing with multiple O-rings, then leak resistance is improved, but mounting space in axial direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple sealing functions into a single sealing element positioned between the retainers, the axial space required is reduced. The sealing element's position between the two retainers allows it to serve both sealing purposes simultaneously, eliminating the need for additional axial space that would be required for separate sealing elements at each retainer.
3Reliability
If conventional snap connectors use multiple sealing elements, then sealing reliability is improved, but overall diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing functions into a single sealing element, which maintains sealing reliability while reducing the overall diameter. The sealing element is positioned between the two retainers and makes contact with both, providing comprehensive sealing without requiring the additional radial space that would be needed for multiple separate sealing elements.
4Strength
If conventional snap connectors are designed with larger dimensions, then connection strength is improved, but mounting space in both axial and radial directions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed so that the first and second retainers are nested within the hose, with the sealing element positioned between them. This nested arrangement allows the connector components to be compact and integrated within the existing hose diameter, reducing the overall volume and mounting space requirements while maintaining connection strength through the retainer-hose engagement.
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 solution provides a reliable, compact, and leak-resistant connection with minimal components, reducing axial and radial dimensions, and ensuring secure fluid transfer even under high pressure.
Implementation Method 1
the O-ring is widened in the radial direction so that its outer diameter contacts the inner diameter of the hose to form a seal
Implementation Method 2
utilizing angular ridges and radial protrusions for secure engagement, increasing friction to prevent disconnection
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-part connector assembly is provided which realises a compact snap coupling between a hose (40) and a pipe socket (50) with only a single potential leaking position and requiring only a minimum number of parts: a first retaining member (10), a second retaining member (20) and a sealing element (30) sandwiched therebetween in the axial direction of the connector assembly.