Threaded Pipe Coupling With Locking Seal for Engine Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The air induction system in automotive engines faces challenges due to the need for connectors that can accommodate movement and vibration while maintaining a sealed connection, as existing quick-connect connectors add complexity and time to the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system with a socket and plug design that includes a retainer element with threads and a lock feature, allowing for limited longitudinal and angular movement, and featuring an annular sealing element and dust seal to maintain a sealed interface and prevent inadvertent loosening, while being integrally formed with the pipe elements for simplified assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate quick-connect connectors are added to conduits during assembly, then the connection simplicity and ease of assembly are improved, but the assembly process complexity and overall assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the coupling connector directly into the conduit structure, merging what were previously separate components (conduit and connector) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate assembly steps to attach connectors, thereby reducing assembly process complexity while maintaining the simplicity of the quick-connect function.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling features are pre-formed as integral parts of the conduit during conduit manufacturing, rather than being added during final assembly. This preliminary integration of the connector functionality into the conduit structure eliminates additional assembly steps and reduces overall assembly time while preserving ease of connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connectors are used to maintain stable connection, then the connection stability is improved, but the ability to accommodate movement and vibration in engine compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible coupling design that allows for controlled movement and articulation between connected components. The coupling incorporates flexible elements and articulation points that enable the connection to adapt to vibrations and movements in the engine compartment while maintaining a stable, sealed connection throughout operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling design allows for parameter changes in terms of angular and longitudinal displacement, enabling the connection to accommodate movement through controlled flexibility. The sealing interface is designed to maintain its sealing function across a range of positions and angles, allowing the connection to adapt to dynamic conditions while preserving connection stability.
3Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms are added to prevent loosening, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling incorporates a self-locking mechanism that automatically engages when the coupling halves are assembled, eliminating the need for separate locking steps or complex manual intervention. The design includes self-aligning and self-securing features that prevent loosening through the natural assembly process itself, maintaining reliability while avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with a simpler integrated locking feature that is inherent to the coupling structure. The locking function is achieved through the geometry and material properties of the coupling components themselves, rather than through separate mechanical locking devices, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining prevention of loosening.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling for interconnecting a first pipe element and a second pipe element. The coupling comprises a first coupling member on the first pipe element, and a second coupling member on the second pipe element. The second coupling member is dimensioned to receive therein the first coupling member. The coupling also includes a retainer element having threads to engage the first coupling member to retain the first and second coupling members in a coupled state. The retainer element includes a lock feature to prevent inadvertent loosening rotation.