Tube Coupling Cartridge for Repeatable Haptic Connection Check
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connection devices in vehicles face challenges in noisy, dark, and cramped environments where visual and audible indicators are ineffective, and haptic indicators can be compromised by breakage.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a cartridge that slides between first and second positions, activated by a predetermined tube length insertion, allowing haptic verification of correct connection through a spring-induced sliding mechanism, enabling repeated checks without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a visual assembly indicator (cartridge position) is used, then connection status can be observed, but observation is prevented in dark or cramped environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual optical indication system with a haptic mechanical feedback system. The cartridge's movement from first to second position during tube insertion generates tactile feedback that can be felt by the operator, eliminating dependence on visual observation in dark or cramped environments.
2Loss of information
If an audible indicator (elastic pin jumping) is used, then connection status can be heard, but detection is difficult in noisy environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the audible acoustic indication system with a haptic mechanical feedback system. The cartridge movement and spring mechanism produce tactile sensations that are independent of acoustic environment, eliminating interference from noisy conditions.
3Loss of information
If a haptic indicator (stop breakage) is used, then connection status can be felt, but verification is prevented after breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic reusable haptic indication system where the cartridge can move between first and second positions during insertion, providing tactile feedback. The system resets automatically or can be manually reset, allowing repeated verification attempts without permanent damage to indication components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a spring mechanism that cushions the cartridge movement and prevents breakage. The spring absorbs mechanical energy during cartridge movement, protecting the haptic indication components from damage while maintaining their ability to provide tactile feedback for repeated verification.
4Productivity
If rapid connection is enabled, then assembly rate increases, but verification means must be equally rapid
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic indication system is self-activating during the normal tube insertion process. The cartridge movement that occurs naturally as the tube is inserted provides immediate tactile feedback to the operator, eliminating the need for separate verification actions and maintaining rapid assembly rates.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures reliable and repeatable haptic confirmation of tube connection in challenging conditions, facilitating efficient assembly verification in confined, unlit, or noisy settings.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arranged to exert a force against the cartridge in the extraction direction so as to restore the cartridge to its first position
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling device (1) comprising: - a hollow body (2) defining a housing (3) which comprises an opening (4); - a locking ring (6) arranged in the housing and intended to engage with an inserted tube; - a first stop (7); - a cartridge (12) against which the tube is intended to butt in order to impose a connection state on the cartridge, the cartridge being able to slide between a first and a second position, the passage of the cartridge (12) from the second position to the first position causing the locking ring (6) to butt against the first stop (7), and the passage of the cartridge from the first position to the second position placing the locking ring (6) at a distance from the first stop (7); - a spring (14) exerting a force against the cartridge (12).