Split Retainer Fluid Connection for Tool-Free Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid connection designs are difficult to secure due to small appliance confines and require tools, and barbed tubes are susceptible to failure from size and brittle material, as well as radial force distribution.
Innovation Solution
A retainer assembly with male and female connectors that engage through recesses and projections, allowing for tool-free assembly and secure sealing connections using ribs and tabs to apply radial force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If barbed tubes and hose clamps are used for fluid connections, then the connection can be secured, but the assembly requires tools and is difficult to secure in small appliance confines
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is divided into two separate sections that can be assembled independently. The first section attaches to one tube end and the second section attaches to the other tube end, allowing each section to be installed separately without requiring tools or complex maneuvers in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer acts as an intermediary component between two tubes, providing a tool-free connection mechanism. The male and female connectors serve as intermediary elements that facilitate easy attachment and detachment of tube connections.
2Ease of manufacture
If barbed tubes are used for fluid connections, then the connection can be made, but the tubes are susceptible to failure due to brittle material and radial force distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer changes the radial force distribution parameters by providing a larger surface area for force application compared to traditional hose clamps. This distributes the radial force more evenly across the tube connection, reducing stress concentration and preventing tube failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer appears to be constructed from flexible material that can accommodate radial forces while maintaining connection integrity. This flexible composite structure provides durability by absorbing and distributing mechanical stresses that would otherwise cause brittle barbed tube failure.
3Strength
If traditional hose clamps are used, then the hose can be clamped to the barbed tube, but the radial force distribution causes susceptibility to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer performs multiple functions: it provides radial clamping force to secure the hose, distributes force evenly to prevent failure, and enables tool-free assembly and disassembly. This multi-functional design replaces the single-function traditional hose clamp.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer sections are designed to be movable and flexible, allowing them to adapt to the tube and hose dimensions while maintaining secure connection. The flexible material enables dynamic adjustment to accommodate variations in tube size and installation conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer including a first section including a first male connector and a first female connector, a second section completely removable from the first section, the second section including a second male connector and a second female connector, a first end, a second end, a radially inward facing surface including a radially inward extending rib, and a radially outward facing surface, wherein the first male connector is arranged to engage the second female connector and the second male connector is arranged to engage the first female connector to lock the first section to the second section.