Tubular Connector Locking With Rotating Securing Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for connecting tubular objects are complex, costly, and require manual locking and visual verification, which can be time-consuming and difficult, especially in hard-to-reach areas of complex systems.
Innovation Solution
A device with a socket housing and a rotatably arranged securing element featuring radially inwardly beveled ramp surfaces and resilient securing tabs that automatically lock and unlock by rotating, allowing easy assembly and disassembly without additional steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional devices use three or more components for connection, then the connection can be achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated device. The connection device combines the coupling body, securing element with securing tabs, and locking mechanism into one unified component structure, eliminating the need for separate coupling devices, locking mechanisms, and verification systems that would otherwise be required. This integration maintains connection reliability while significantly reducing device complexity.
2Reliability
If manual locking and visual verification are used, then the connection can be secured, but the operation time and effort increase especially in hard-to-reach areas
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element automatically performs the locking function through its resilient securing tabs that engage with the coupling body upon insertion. The visual verification function is integrated into the same component, as the position of the securing element and its tabs provides immediate visual confirmation of the locked state. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for separate manual locking operations and verification steps, greatly improving ease of operation while maintaining locking reliability.
3Ease of operation
If resilient securing tabs are used for automatic locking, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient securing tabs are integrated directly into the securing element, which itself is part of the unified connection device. The spring mechanism is incorporated within the securing tab structure rather than being a separate component. This integration achieves automatic locking functionality while avoiding the addition of separate complex mechanisms, thereby improving ease of operation without significantly increasing device complexity.
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 secure and effortless connection of tubular objects with automatic locking, preventing accidental disconnection due to vibration or fluid flow, and simplifies assembly by ensuring the device is always in a connected or disconnected state, reducing manufacturing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient securing tab can be moved from a first radial position into a radially outward second radial position
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for connecting two tubular objects has a connection piece housing and a securing element, wherein the securing element is shaped in a complementary manner with respect to a receiving opening of the connection piece housing and is arranged rotatably in the receiving opening and has an insertion opening for receiving a connection piece, wherein the securing element has securing tabs which are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction and each have a radially inwardly facing securing body for engaging in shaped features of a connection piece and can be moved from a first position into a second radial position lying radially on the outside. The connection piece housing has, for each securing tab, a ramp surface which is bevelled radially inwards and on which the securing tab rests, wherein the ramp surface and a supporting surface are shaped such that, by rotation of the securing element in a first direction, the securing tabs are pushed into the second radial position, and, in an unloaded state, the securing element is rotated back in a second direction opposed to the first direction by the securing tabs springing back into the first position.