Tubular Coupling Locking Mechanism for Ergonomic Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling systems for tubular elements face issues with long-term reliability and fatigue due to the use of plastics, which creep and change shape under temperature, and require complex movements for connection and release, leading to high forces and poor ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system with a socket element, plug-in element, locking element, and securing element that uses a form-fit and force-fit engagement to secure the plug-in element, allowing for a simple and ergonomic connection and release mechanism with minimal additional components, where the locking element is secured by a form fit and force fit in the locked state, and is easily preassembled on the socket element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If resilient latching elements made of plastics are used to enable snap-fit connection, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to long-term creep and shape changes under temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from plastic to metal for the locking element, which fundamentally alters the mechanical properties including elasticity modulus, creep resistance, and temperature stability. This allows the locking element to maintain its locking force over long periods without the degradation issues inherent in plastic materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system employs a composite structure where metal locking elements are integrated with plastic socket and plug-in elements. The metal locking element provides reliable long-term mechanical properties while the plastic components provide ease of manufacturing and assembly, creating a synergistic system that combines advantages of both materials.
2Reliability
If complex rotational and pulling movements are required for release, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to high forces and poor ergonomics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the release mechanism by using spring elements that automatically exert a releasing force. Instead of requiring the user to apply complex rotational and pulling forces to disengage the connection, the spring elements naturally push the locking element into the release position when the plug-in element is pulled, reversing the force direction and simplifying the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring elements provide self-service by automatically generating the releasing force needed to disengage the locking element. The system uses the pulling force applied by the user to activate the spring mechanism, which then completes the release action without requiring additional user effort for rotation or complex movements.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system, in particular for tubular elements, with a socket element and a plug-in element, wherein a locking element is also provided, wherein the socket element has a tube-like receiving region for receiving the plug-in element, wherein the locking element has a securing element which is supported in the plugging-in direction against a securing mating element of the plug-in element and the locking element is supported with a locking device against a locking mating device on the socket element, and therefore the socket element and the plug-in element are secured axially indirectly via the locking element and thus via the securing element, the securing mating element and the locking device and the locking mating device.