Vacuum Pump Clamping Connector for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connecting devices for vacuum devices are labor-intensive, costly, and often require separate tools, with few allowing non-destructive release, leading to increased manufacturing, maintenance, and repair costs.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum device featuring plug-in elements and receptacles that form a clamping connection, allowing quick, easy, and secure assembly without additional tools, with the option for non-destructive detachment for maintenance, using cylindrical or conical designs that can be formed during manufacturing or later, and made from fiber-reinforced plastic for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional joining techniques (soldering, welding, screwing, riveting) are used to connect components, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the joining process is labor-intensive, requires separate tools, and increases manufacturing and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in element is integrated directly into the first component during manufacturing, combining the component and connector into a single unit. This eliminates the need for separate joining tools and reduces manufacturing steps while maintaining connection reliability through the direct integral formation of the plug-in element
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping connection mechanism is designed to be self-actuating, where the plug-in element automatically engages with the receptacle upon insertion. The clamping force is generated through the geometric interaction between the plug-in element and receptacle surfaces without requiring external tools or additional fastening operations
2Reliability
If conventional joining devices are used, then connections can be made securely, but significant labor and time are required, increasing manufacturing and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in element is pre-formed on the first component during its manufacturing process, so that when assembly is required, no additional preparation or tooling is needed. The component arrives ready-to-connect, eliminating preliminary joining operations and significantly accelerating assembly speed while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional elements: the plug-in element on the first component and the receptacle on the second component. This segmentation allows each to be optimized independently and enables quick mate-demate operations, improving assembly speed while maintaining connection security through the specialized clamping geometry
3Strength
If permanent joining methods are used, then components are firmly connected, but non-destructive disassembly for maintenance or repair is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping connection transitions from a static permanent joint to a dynamic reversible connection. The plug-in element can be inserted to create a strong clamping force for operation, and then removed when maintenance is needed. The connection strength is maintained during operation through the clamping geometry, while replaceability is enabled through the reversible insertion/removal mechanism
4Reliability
If multiple separate tools and processes are used for joining components, then connections can be made securely, but manufacturing and maintenance costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in element is combined with the first component as an integral feature, eliminating the need for separate connectors, fasteners, or joining tools. This integration reduces the number of parts, simplifies manufacturing processes, and lowers costs while maintaining connection reliability through the direct formation of the clamping interface
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping connection design serves multiple functions: it provides secure mechanical connection, enables quick assembly and disassembly, requires no additional tools, and allows for component replacement. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single integrated solution, reducing overall manufacturing and maintenance costs
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(A)~3(B)
AI summary
The invention relates to a vacuum device, in particular a vacuum pump, comprising a first component, a second component and a device for connecting the first and the second component, wherein the device comprises at least a plug-in element formed on the first component and at least a receptacle formed on the second component with a receiving opening for the plug-in element, and wherein the plug-in element and the receptacle are designed such that a clamping connection between the two components can be established by inserting the plug-in element into the receptacle.