Tube Connector Window Insert for Fail-Safe Insertion Check
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube connectors, particularly outer diameter (OD) and inner diameter (ID) connectors, face challenges in providing a reliable and cost-effective visual indication of proper tube insertion without relying on movable components that can lead to false positives or negatives.
Innovation Solution
A tube connector design featuring a see-through insert spanning a window in the body, allowing direct visual verification of tube insertion without movable components, and adaptable to various connector types by modifying existing designs with windows and inserts, using conventional materials for structural integrity and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If movable components (activation ring, annular body, indication member) are used to provide visual indication of tube insertion, then tube insertion status can be indicated, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to potential false positives or negatives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all movable indication components (activation ring, annular body, indication member) from the connector structure. Instead, it uses a static see-through insert that allows direct visual observation of the tube through a window in the body, eliminating the source of reliability issues while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical movable indication system with a static optical system. The see-through insert creates a direct line of sight through the window to observe tube insertion status, substituting complex mechanical movement with simple optical transparency
2Reliability
If movable indication components are incorporated into the connector, then tube insertion can be indicated, but the manufacturing cost increases and ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts all expensive movable indication components from the design, leaving only a simple static see-through insert. This dramatically reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining reliable visual indication through direct observation
Solution Approach 2:
The see-through insert is a simple, inexpensive static component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. It eliminates the need for complex movable parts that would increase manufacturing cost and complexity
3Reliability
If the connector body is made see-through to allow tube visibility, then tube insertion can be directly observed, but the structural integrity decreases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connector into two parts: an opaque body that maintains structural integrity and a separate see-through insert that provides visual access. The insert is positioned within the body to create a window through which the tube can be observed without compromising the overall connector strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local transparency only where needed for observation (the window region with see-through insert) while keeping the rest of the connector body opaque and structurally robust. This localized approach maintains overall structural integrity while enabling reliable visual indication
Data Source
AI summary
A tube connector with a body (2) to receive a tube T. A retaining ring (13) grips the tube. An O-ring (10) seals on the tube. The body has at least one window (9) at a position that the fully inserted tube will reach. A see-through insert (6) receives the tube and spans the window and being sealed to an inner face of the body to seal a path to the window. The fully inserted tube T is visible from outside the connector through the window (9) and insert (6). As an alternative the insert (60) may not be see through but is positioned such that the fully inserted tube T is visible through the window (9). The connector may be formed by adapting an existing connector body (2) to provide the window(s) (9).