Tube Connector Insertion Indicator for Leak-Safe Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Leakage in fluid transport circuits, particularly in vehicle braking systems, often occurs due to poor assembly of tubes with connecting devices, leading to reduced pressure and potential system failure, as operators struggle to ensure proper fitting and sealing.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a mobile assembly that includes a furring and insert mechanism, featuring a counterbore, seals, and an anchoring element, which provides tactile and visual indicators to confirm correct tube insertion and sealing, ensuring effective connection and preventing extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tube insertion depth is not clearly indicated, then the assembly process is simple, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to improper assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded zones on the tube (first zone with first color, second zone with second color) to indicate insertion depth. When the tube is properly inserted, the sealing zone aligns with a reference mark on the fitting body, providing clear visual feedback to the operator without adding mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a visual indicator system as an intermediary between the tube insertion state and the operator's perception. The colored zones and reference marks serve as mediators that translate the physical insertion depth into easily distinguishable visual signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical indicators.
2Manufacturing precision
If visual indicators are added to indicate proper insertion, then assembly precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coded zones directly on the tube surface to indicate different insertion stages. The first zone (first color) and second zone (second color) provide immediate visual feedback, allowing operators to achieve precise insertion without additional mechanical components or complex indicator mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The color zones are pre-marked on the tube during manufacturing, providing insertion guidance before the assembly process begins. This preliminary visual information eliminates the need for complex real-time indicators during assembly, as the guidance is already embedded in the component itself.
3Reliability
If the tube is not inserted far enough, then assembly is easier, but sealing effectiveness deteriorates leading to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The color-coded zones provide immediate visual feedback during assembly. When the tube is properly inserted, the reference mark aligns with the sealing zone boundary, making it obvious whether sufficient insertion has occurred. This eliminates guesswork and ensures reliable sealing without complicating the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual indicator system provides real-time feedback during the assembly process. The aligned reference mark and colored zones give the operator immediate information about insertion depth, allowing them to adjust if necessary and ensuring proper sealing without requiring complex verification steps.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 1e~1f
AI summary
Device for connecting (1) a tube end section (T), comprising: a tubular body (2) defining a channel (3) provided with retaining means (7) including a hooking element (10) for engaging an outer surface of the tube end section (T) and an annular seal (9) for gripping the outer surface of the tube end section (T). The device comprises at least a first arm (20) having an end arranged in the channel (3) to be actuated by the tube end section (T) downstream of the retaining means to make a portion of the arm a connection indicator which is detectable from outside the body.