Tube Coupling Cartridge for Haptic Connection Verification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid coupling devices in vehicles face challenges in noisy, dark, and cramped environments, where visual and audible indicators are ineffective for verifying proper tube connection.

Innovation Solution

A coupling device with a haptic indicator, comprising a cartridge that slides between positions to confirm correct tube insertion, using a spring to return to a locked position for repeated verification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a visual indicator (cartridge position) is used to verify tube connection, then connection verification is enabled, but the indicator becomes ineffective in dark and cramped environments where observation is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection verificationVSAvoidindicator observability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the visual optical indication system with a haptic tactile feedback system. The cartridge's movement between positions creates a detectable mechanical sensation (click or stop feeling) that the operator can feel, substituting the visual detection mechanism with a tactile one that works effectively in dark and cramped environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If an audible indicator (elastic pin jiggling) is used to verify tube connection, then connection verification is enabled, but the indicator becomes ineffective in noisy environments where sound detection is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection verificationVSAvoidnoise interference

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the acoustic indication system with a haptic tactile feedback system. Instead of relying on sound waves that can be masked by environmental noise, the system uses direct mechanical contact and tactile sensation through the cartridge movement, providing a noise-independent verification method.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If a haptic indicator (abutment breaking) is used to verify tube connection, then connection verification is enabled, but the indicator prevents subsequent verification as the abutment is damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection verificationVSAvoidverification repeatability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic reversible mechanism where the cartridge can move between two positions. The first position indicates correct insertion with haptic feedback, and the cartridge can return to this position for repeated verification. This dynamic system replaces the static irreversible abutment breaking mechanism, allowing multiple verification cycles without damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows the cartridge to be reset to its initial position after indication, enabling recovery of the verification capability. Unlike the broken abutment that is discarded, the cartridge can be returned to its first position through the tube extraction and reinsertion process, allowing repeated verification operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

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

Enables reliable and repeated verification of tube connection in challenging conditions without damaging components, ensuring secure and sealed fluid transfer.

Implementation Method 1

a spring configured to exert a force against the cartridge in the extraction direction in order to force said cartridge, in the connection state, to adopt its first position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20250327540A1Coupling device for a tube

Publication Date: 2025.10.23 A RAYMOND & CO SCS

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).