Tube Coupling Feedback Element Audible Insertion Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube coupling systems face issues with leakage and unintentional release due to incorrect assembly, particularly because it is difficult for users to determine when a tube is fully inserted, especially with high-friction gripping and sealing mechanisms, and previous solutions like visual markings or audible clicks are either unreliable or increase assembly force unnecessarily.
Innovation Solution
A tube coupling system with a feedback element, such as a tongue-shaped member on the tube support body that provides an audible signal when the tube is fully inserted, ensuring a consistent breaking force independent of frictional forces, thus providing clear feedback without additional moving components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual markings are provided on the tube to indicate full insertion, then the assembler receives visual feedback, but the tube cannot be shortened without losing the markings and there is uncertainty about positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tube support member as an intermediary component between the tube and coupling body. This support member carries the visual markings and positioning features, separating the feedback function from the tube itself. The support member includes a proximal end with markings visible through the coupling body and a distal end with a stop portion that engages the tube, enabling feedback without constraining tube length variations
2Loss of information
If a groove and tongue configuration is used to provide audible click signal, then the user receives feedback of fully-inserted position, but the push-in force is significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The tube support member acts as a mediator that decouples the feedback mechanism from the insertion force transmission path. The support member engages the tube through friction and geometric constraints rather than rigid groove-tongue engagement, reducing the force required while still providing audible click feedback through its interaction with the coupling body
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the engagement parameters from rigid mechanical interlocking (groove and tongue) to a more compliant system where the tube support member can deform slightly and engage through friction. This parameter change reduces the peak forces required while maintaining the feedback function through controlled disengagement that produces audible clicks
3Reliability
If high friction gripping or sealing means are used in high-pressure systems, then leakage is prevented, but the engagement of tube with final stop portion is not evident to user
Solution Approach 1:
The tube support member serves as an intermediary that provides mechanical feedback without interfering with the sealing function. It engages the tube through its inner collar and provides visual and audible feedback, while the sealing means independently prevents leakage through its own mechanism, allowing both functions to operate without compromising either
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the tube support member handles feedback and positioning, the sealing means handles leakage prevention, and the coupling body provides structural support. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising others, enabling reliable sealing while providing clear insertion feedback
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a tube coupling system (1) comprising a coupling body (3) for receiving a tube (5), a leakage sealing means (7) between the outer surface of the tube (5) and the inner surface of the coupling body (3), a gripping means (9) for gripping the outer surface of the tube (5) received in the coupling body (3), and a tube support body (19) onto which the tube (5) fits, characterised in that said tube support body (19) comprises a feedback element (20) that provides an audible feedback signal when the tube (5) is sufficiently inserted onto the tube support body (19).