Tube Coupling Locking Hook Design for Automatic Secure Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube couplings for fluid pipes, such as fuel hoses, require complex interactions among multiple parts, leading to increased costs, reduced robustness, and mechanical stress on components, with a small stroke difference between pre-assembly and locking positions that is difficult to verify visually or tactilely, and are prone to wear and damage.
Innovation Solution
A tube coupling design featuring a connection element with elastic deformation and a locking hook that moves radially and axially to engage a locking catch, allowing for a secure, automatic locking mechanism with a visible indicator for proper assembly, reducing the number of parts and minimizing perforations for increased robustness and dust protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used for retaining and blocking the male connector, then the locking function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate parts (connection element with tines, stationary frame with tongue, locking hooks, and locking catches) into an integrated assembly where the connection element and stationary frame work together as a unified retaining mechanism. The locking hooks are integrated into the connection element, and the locking catches are integrated into the stationary frame, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element serves multiple functions: it provides the retaining tines for blocking the male connector, contains the locking hooks for engagement with the stationary frame, and works with the elastic tongue for automatic connection. The stationary frame similarly serves as both the structural support and the location for locking catches, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If multiple separate parts with complex interactions are used, then the locking mechanism is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the locking hooks into the connection element and the locking catches into the stationary frame, the patent reduces the number of separate parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs while maintaining the complex locking mechanism functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic tongue automatically compresses and releases to propel the connection element into its locking position without requiring external actuation or complex control systems. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional actuators, sensors, or control electronics, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while achieving reliable automatic locking.
3Reliability
If the connection element is pushed far into the female connector for secure locking, then the retention is improved, but the stroke difference between pre-assembly and locking positions becomes small and difficult to verify
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a visual indicator (such as a colored ring, marker, or transparent section) on the connection element that changes position or visibility as the connection element moves from the pre-assembly to the locking position. This allows operators to easily verify proper assembly by observing the indicator, even when the actual movement distance is small.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic tongue acts as an intermediary that amplifies the small movement of the connection element into a more noticeable action. As the tongue compresses and releases, it propels the connection element with a distinct motion that can be felt or seen, providing tactile or visual feedback that confirms proper locking without requiring large displacement.
4Ease of operation
If the connection element moves transversely with large stroke, then the automatic connection is improved, but the mechanical stress on the elastic tines increases leading to wear and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the dynamic behavior of the elastic tines, allowing them to flex and store energy during the transverse movement. The tines are designed with appropriate elasticity to accommodate the required stroke while distributing the mechanical stress over time and across the material, preventing concentrated loads that would lead to wear or failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic tongue is pre-compressed during the insertion process, storing energy that is then released to propel the connection element into its final position. This beforehand cushioning reduces the direct mechanical stress on the tines during the transverse movement by using the stored elastic energy from the tongue to assist the motion, rather than relying solely on the tines to provide the entire driving force.
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
The solution provides a reliable, visually and tactilely distinguishable locking mechanism with reduced mechanical stress, increased robustness, and improved assembly verification, enhancing the safety and durability of the tube coupling.
Implementation Method 1
the connection element is designed to be deformed elastically radially towards the outside of the female connector by mechanical interference with the collar during the insertion of the male connector into the female connector and, in reaction to the radial elastic deformation, to move of its own accord along the transverse direction
Data Source
AI summary
A tube coupling including a female connector a body into which a male connector having an annular collar is inserted axially, and a connection element is provided. The connection element extends in a transverse direction within the body of the female connector. The connection element is designed to interfere mechanically with the collar during insertion of the male connector and to move transversely of its own accord towards the inside of the female connector. The connection element includes a locking hook that cooperates with a locking catch provided in the female connector. The hook goes past the catch as a result of the mechanical interference of the collar that drives axial and radial elastic deformation of the connection element. The hook locks against the catch when the connection element is fully pushed into the female connector.