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Sound Pattern Analysis
Quick Connector Test
Quick connectors (QC) are commonly used to connect various parts of a car’s fuel system. Many times the fuel tank has quick connectors, too.
In the fuel tank assembly line typically an operator connects the tubes via a QC with the nipples to the tank. Throughout an 8-hour shift, it is very likely that the operator assembles a couple of quick connectors incorrectly without noticing, leaving the connection an undefined or unlocked position.
QC testing equipment assists the operator using one of two techniques, dependent on the QC type: Click Detector or TEE Sensor.
Click Detector
For many types of QC’s the correct locking of the QC produces a typical “click” noise. Experiments showed that the click has some typical sound pattern. An acoustic element is used to receive the click signal. With the right software it is possible to analyze the sound pattern and determine whether or not the quick connector was locked correctly.
TTE test
The TEE connector does not give a significant click. Therefore this type of connection is tested by a capacitive sensor rather than analyzing the sound pattern. The pump foot must be fixed accurately in a tool. Then the foot is clamped by a pneumatic cylinder. After that the connector is mounted.
