Fluid Connector Snap-Fit Ring for Blind Connection Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quick-connect fluid connection devices in noisy environments or hard-to-see locations may fail to ensure proper connection due to reliance on audible and visual indicators, which can be ineffective if background noise masks the sound or if the visual indicators are not easily visible.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection device featuring a male and female connector with an elastically deformable pin and a movable ring that can only be locked into place when the connectors are properly aligned, providing a tactile and visual confirmation of secure connection, and independent mobile elements that allow for precise positioning without deforming the female connector material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual indicators are used to confirm connection, then connection status can be checked, but the indicator may not be visible if the connection point is in a blind or hard-to-see area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable ring as an intermediary indicator element that can be manipulated by the operator. This ring provides tactile feedback through its movement constraints and visual feedback through its position, serving as a mediator between the connection state and the operator's awareness, overcoming the limitation of fixed visual indicators in blind areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces reliance on purely visual indicators with a tactile-mechanical system. The movable ring's ability to move freely or become blocked provides tactile feedback that the connection is proper, substituting the need for visual confirmation in areas where visibility is limited.
2Loss of information
If an audible click is used to confirm connection, then connection status can be verified, but the sound may not be heard if background noise is present
Solution Approach 1:
The movable ring acts as an intermediary that translates the connection state into both tactile and visual information. The ring's movement characteristics (free movement versus blocked movement) provide unambiguous feedback that is independent of acoustic environment, mediating between the connection state and operator confirmation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes acoustic feedback with a mechanical-tactile feedback system using the movable ring. The operator can feel whether the ring moves freely or is blocked, providing connection confirmation that is not affected by background noise levels.
3Ease of operation
If the pin is made elastically deformable for snap-fitting, then connection can be achieved, but the female connector material may deform during the process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection mechanism into distinct functional elements: the elastically deformable pin for engagement, the movable ring for locking and indication, and the female connector body for structural support. This segmentation allows the pin to be flexible while keeping the female connector structurally stable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic elements including the elastically deformable pin that can flex during insertion and the movable ring that can move axially. These dynamic components absorb the deformation stresses, preventing permanent damage to the female connector's structural integrity.
4Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the connection, then connection reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a locking mechanism when moved to the blocked position, provides visual and tactile indication of connection status, and prevents premature movement during insertion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, maintaining simplicity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the indication function and the locking function into a single movable ring component. This consolidation reduces the number of parts compared to having separate indicators and locking mechanisms, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
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
Ensures reliable and accurate connection confirmation through tactile and visual means, preventing misassembly and fluid leakage by requiring proper alignment for ring movement and locking, even in noisy or obscured conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an elastically-deformable pin with a general U or C shape mounted on the female connector, the pin comprising at least one part intersecting with the female connector and configured to cooperate by elastic snap-fitting with the male connector
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid connection device generally includes a male connector and a female connector configured to be co-inserted along an axis X, an elastically-deformable pin with a general U or C shape mounted on the female connector, the pin having one part passing through the female connector and configured to cooperate by elastic snap-fitting with the male connector, and a ring axially movable on the female connector between a pin release position and a locking position. In the device, the female connector may support elements that are radially mobile between a first radial position, for example, internal, whereby the ring is immobilized on the female connector, and a second radial position, for example, external, whereby the ring is released. The elements are generally configured to cooperate both with the male connector and the ring to release the ring when the pin is snap-fitted on the male connector.