Connection assembly, method for mating quick disconnect and system for forming fluid connection

Abstract

A quick-disconnect system includes a housing and a first connector of a quick-disconnect element configured to complementarily mate with a second connector of the quick-disconnect element. A preload biasing element is configured to provide a biasing force between the first connector and the housing. A method for mating a quick-disconnect element is also described. The method includes receiving a connection force to mat the first connector of the quick-disconnect element in the housing with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element. The first connector mates with the second connector when the connection force is at least equal to or greater than a mating force value. When the connection force is greater than a preload value of the biasing element in the housing, the mating quick-disconnect element is moved relative to the housing while maintaining the connection of the mating quick-disconnect element.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for rapid disconnection of floating components in liquid cooling. [Previous Technology]

[0002] Quick-connect and quick-disconnect systems are used in a variety of industries, including automotive, medical, hydraulic, household, and industrial. One application of quick-disconnect is in automotive nozzles and hoses for fuel delivery. Another exemplary application of quick-disconnect systems is in hydraulic power tools and machines, such as sawing and cutting tools. Another exemplary application of quick-disconnect systems is thermal management in electrical systems. Many applications involve manual operation to connect and disconnect quick-disconnect systems, and therefore allow for manual adjustment as needed. However, in some quick-disconnect systems, the quick-disconnect portion is fixed to other components, creating the need for specific tolerance limits for connecting and disconnecting the quick-disconnect system, as specified in more detail below.

[0003] The objectives claimed herein are not limited to solutions to any drawbacks or implementations that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background art is provided merely to illustrate an exemplary technical field in which some of the implementations described herein can be practiced. [Summary of the Invention]

[0004] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes: a housing having a front portion and a rear portion; a first connector for a quick-disconnect fluid conduit oriented toward the front portion of the housing; and a preload biasing element disposed in the housing to apply a biasing force between the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect element, wherein the preload biasing element is configured to allow the first connector of the quick-disconnect element to move relative to the housing.

[0005] In other embodiments, a method for engaging a quick-disconnect element is provided, the method comprising: receiving a connection force to engage a first connector of the quick-disconnect element in a housing with a second connector of the quick-disconnect element; connecting the first connector of the quick-disconnect element with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element when the connection force is at least equal to the engagement force value; and connecting the first connector of the quick-disconnect element with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element when the connection force is greater than a preload value of a biasing element in the housing, thereby forming an engaged quick-disconnect element, wherein the engaged quick-disconnect element moves relative to the housing while maintaining connection with the engaged quick-disconnect element.

[0006] In other embodiments, a system for forming a connection in a server rack includes: a first connector of a quick-disconnect element disposed in a housing; a second connector of the quick-disconnect element configured to complementarily engage with the first connector of the quick-disconnect element to form a mating quick-disconnect element; and a preload biasing element positioned between the first connector of the quick-disconnect element and the housing, wherein the force provided by the preload biasing element is not less than the mating force between the first connector of the quick-disconnect element and the second connector of the quick-disconnect element.

[0007] This summary is provided to introduce a series of concepts that will be further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] Additional features and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein will be set forth in the following description, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing such embodiments. The features and advantages of such embodiments may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practicing such embodiments as set forth below.

Implementation Method

[0023] This disclosure generally relates to quick-disconnect systems, guiding systems, and methods of use. More specifically, this disclosure generally relates to quick-disconnect systems movable relative to their housings. In some embodiments, a first connection assembly includes a housing, a first connector of the quick-disconnect element, and a preload biasing element disposed in the housing to apply a biasing force between the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect element. The first connector of the quick-disconnect element may be configured onto the housing. For example, the housing may be cast to surround the first connector of the quick-disconnect element, or it may be a sheet metal support. The housing may then be secured to a server rack or server housing. In another embodiment, the housing is a server rack or server housing.

[0024] A conventional quick-disconnect system includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is configured to mate with the second connector. Conventionally, one connector in the connector is a female connector, and the other is a male protrusion. In systems where the quick-disconnect element is configured for fluid connection, one connector typically includes a valve that terminates fluid flow once the first connector is disconnected from the second connector.

[0025] Conventional server racks conforming to EIA (Electronic Industries Association) standards are approximately 600 mm wide, 1,200 mm deep, and 500 mm high, and can include various quantities of rack units or enclosures. Other standards include 1067 mm deep or 1000 mm deep. Computing devices supported by such types of server racks typically generate a significant amount of heat, and the exact amount depends on the number of server computers included in the rack, as well as the type and workload of the server computers. This heat can affect the performance of electronic components within the server rack and / or damage them, thus requiring various cooling methods. Air cooling using on-chip heat sinks and remote heat sinks becomes impractical for higher-power chips, which generate more heat than lower-power chips. Direct contact liquid cooling (DCLC) provides a better thermal solution when air cooling is inefficient. DCLC technology allows for the removal of individual enclosures or servers for maintenance and easier assembly using quick-disconnect coupling.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first connector of the quick-disconnect component is fixed to the rack, while the second connector of the quick-disconnect component is fixed to the housing. The rack may have a depth tolerance of up to ±7 mm starting from a specified size, which may be greater than the tolerance allowed for the quick-disconnect assembly, which is typically ±1 mm. Even when the parts conform to specifications, differences in allowable tolerance standards can create potential assembly problems for the DCLC system. If the rack is larger than the specified size, the first and second connectors may not fully mate when the housing is pushed into the rack, which may result in increased pressure drop and / or reduced fluid flow in the system. If the rack is smaller than the specified size, the first and second connectors may exceed their limits, which may cause the quick-disconnect system to bend or be damaged. Even if the rack and / or connectors conform to tolerance specifications, one or more of the above problems may occur if too much or too little force is applied to insert the housing into the rack.

[0027] Even if the rack and / or connectors meet the tolerance specifications, there may be a risk that the quick disconnect components may be misaligned in the x and / or y dimensions when the housing is placed in the rack, which may hinder the mating of the first connector and / or the second connector.

[0028] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first connection assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first connection assembly 100 may include a housing 102, a first connector 106 of a quick-disconnect element, and a preload biasing element 104. In some embodiments, the first connection assembly 100 also includes a first guide element 108. The first connector 106 of the quick-disconnect element may be oriented toward the front of the housing 102.

[0029] A preload biasing element 104 may be disposed in the housing 102 to apply a biasing force between the housing 102 and the first connector 106 of the quick-disconnect element. The preload biasing element 104 may also be configured to allow movement of the first connector 106 of the quick-disconnect element relative to the housing 102. In Figure 1, the preload biasing element 104 is illustrated as a helical spring; however, it should be understood that other types of preload biasing elements may be used. For example, the preload biasing element 104 may be a compression spring, extension spring, torsion spring, constant force spring, helical spring, leaf spring, or other types of spring. In another embodiment, the preload biasing element 104 includes a magnet. In yet another embodiment, the preload biasing element 104 includes a compressible gas. When the second connector contacts and / or mates with the first connector 106, a valve 110 in the first connector 106 selectively allows fluid to flow through the first connector 106.

[0030] Figures 2-1 to 2-3 are plan views illustrating the mating process of a first connector 206 and a second connector 214 of a quick-disconnect device according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The first connector 206 may be located in a first housing 202 including a first guide element 208. The first housing 202 may be cast or molded to surround the first connector 206, or the first housing 202 may be a sheet metal support. A preload biasing element in the first housing 202 applies a biasing force to the first connector 206 toward an open end of the first housing 202. The second connector 214 may be configured in a second housing 216 including a second guide element 212. The first connector 206 may be a female connector, and the second connector 214 may be a male protrusion, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the first and second connection assemblies have a plurality of guide element pairs to limit and / or prevent engagement during mating.

[0031] The first connector 206 may be configured to complementarily mate with the second connector 214 to form a fluid conduit through the first connector 206 and the second connector 214. In Figure 2-2, the first connector 206 and the second connector 214 are fully engaged, and the first guide element 208 and the second guide element 212 are fully engaged. In Figure 2-3, the quick-disconnect element, including the engagement of the first connector 206 and the second connector 214, has been moved relative to the housing 202 by deforming or displacing at least a portion of the biasing element.

[0032] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a first connection assembly 300 that mates with a second connector 314 according to the present disclosure. The first connection assembly 300 may include a housing 302, a first connector 306 with a quick-disconnect feature, and a preload biasing element 304. In some embodiments, the first connection assembly 300 includes a first guide element 308. The first connector 306 may be oriented toward the front of the housing 302. The preload biasing element 304 may be disposed in the housing 302 to apply a biasing force between the housing 302 and the first connector 306. The preload biasing element 304 may be further configured to allow the first connector 306 to move relative to the housing 302. The second connector 314 is configured to complementarily mate with the first connector 306. In some embodiments, the first connection assembly 300 further includes a first guide element 308 configured to complementarily mate with a second guide element 312 disposed in a second housing 316.

[0033] The preload value of the preload bias element 304 may be greater than the engagement force value. In this case, when a connection force is applied, the first connector of the quick disconnect element 306 and the second connector of the quick disconnect element 314 may be fully engaged before the quick disconnect element that allows the preload bias element 304 to move relative to the housing 302.

[0034] In some embodiments, the preload value of the bias element 304 is less than the engagement force value. Initially, the applied connection force moves the first connector 306 relative to the housing 302 until the bias force reaches a value greater than the engagement force value, at which point the first connector 306 and the second connector 314 will engage. After the first connector 306 and the second connector 314 have fully engaged, any additional force applied to this system can subsequently further move the engagement relative to the housing 302 to quickly disconnect the system.

[0035] In some embodiments, the biasing element 304 has a predetermined wiping threshold. The wiping threshold is the displacement of the biasing element 304 in the longitudinal direction. As the first connector 306 moves relative to the housing 302 before engaging with the second connector, the biasing element 304 compresses. As the biasing element 304 compresses, the biasing force provided by the biasing element 304 increases. In some embodiments, the biasing force may increase linearly, nonlinearly, exponentially, variablely, etc., as will be described in more detail with respect to Figures 6-1 to 6-4. The wiping threshold is the displacement of the first connector 306 relative to the housing 302, and therefore the compression of the biasing element 304, at which point the biasing force equals the engagement force value of the quick-disconnect element, thereby causing the quick-disconnect element to engage. In at least one instance, the wiping threshold is the amount of wiping by the quick-disconnect element when the quick-disconnect element engages.

[0036] In some embodiments, the wiping threshold is within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 7.5 mm, 10 mm, or any value between these limits. In some instances, the wiping threshold is greater than 1 mm. In some instances, the wiping threshold is less than 10 mm. In some instances, the wiping threshold is between 1 mm and 10 mm. In at least one instance, the wiping threshold is less than 2.5 mm.

[0037] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a quick-disconnect device including a preload biasing element disposed in a second housing. The preload biasing element 404 may be disposed in the second housing 416 such that a second biasing force is applied between the second housing 416 and the second connector 414 of the quick-disconnect device. In some embodiments, the first housing 402 and / or the first connector 406 include valves for controlling fluid flow. In some embodiments, the second connector 414 includes a valve 410 for controlling fluid flow. In some embodiments, both the first connector 406 and the second connector 414 include valves (e.g., valve 410) for controlling fluid flow. Valve 410 may be configured to open when the first connector 406 and the second connector 414 are mated. For example, valve 410 may be fully open when the first connector 406 and the second connector 414 are fully mated, and valve 410 may be partially open when the first connector 406 and the second connector 414 are partially mated. When the first connector 406 and the second connector 414 are disconnected from each other, valve 410 may close to prevent fluid loss.

[0038] Figure 5 is a side sectional view of an embodiment, wherein preload biasing elements 504 and 518 are disposed in both the first housing 502 and the second housing 516. The preload value of the first biasing element 504 in the first housing 502 may be greater than the preload value of the second biasing element 518 in the second housing 516, thereby allowing the second connector 514 of the quick-disconnect member to move relative to the second housing 516 until the biasing force of the second biasing element 518 becomes equal to or greater than the preload value of the first biasing element 504. At this time, the first connector 506 of the quick-disconnect member may also move relative to the first housing 502.

[0039] Figures 6-1, 6-2, 6-3, and 6-4 illustrate various force-to-displacement curves of embodiments of the preloaded biasing element according to the present disclosure. In Figure 6-1, the embodiment of the preloaded biasing element has a linear force-to-displacement curve. As the first connector of the quick-disconnect member moves relative to the housing, the biasing force of the biasing element increases linearly. In Figure 6-2, the embodiment of the preloaded biasing element has an exponential force-to-displacement curve. As the first connector of the quick-disconnect member moves relative to the housing, the biasing force of the biasing element increases exponentially. In Figure 6-3, the embodiment of the preloaded biasing element has a variable force-to-displacement curve, wherein as the first connector of the quick-disconnect member moves relative to the housing, the biasing force can first decrease and then increase. In Figure 6-4, the embodiment of the preloaded biasing element has a different variable force-to-displacement curve, wherein as the first connector of the quick-disconnect member moves relative to the housing, the biasing force can first increase and then decrease.

[0040] Figure 7 illustrates an asymmetric guide pin according to this disclosure. In one embodiment, the first guide element 708 is a guide pin having a rotationally asymmetric surface, which is used to prevent any rotational movement and / or movement on the x and y axes. For example, the guide pin may have a body 720, which is mostly cylindrical, having a flat surface 724 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 722. Complementary guide holes (not shown) may have complementary transverse cross-sectional shapes (e.g., on their inner surfaces) in the transverse direction of the longitudinal axis 722 of the guide pin.

[0041] Figure 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the complementary guide elements 808, 812. The first guide element 808 and the second guide element 812 include longitudinal grooves 826, 828, which are configured to allow movement relative to each other along the longitudinal axis 822 of the guide elements 808, 812. The lateral orientation bodies of the first guide element 808 and the second guide element 812 limit and / or prevent lateral and / or rotational movement of the first guide element 808 and the second guide element 812 relative to each other.

[0042] Industrial Applicability

[0043] This disclosure generally relates to quick-disconnect systems, guiding systems, and methods of use. More specifically, this disclosure generally relates to quick-disconnect systems movable relative to their housings. In some embodiments, a first connection assembly includes a housing, a first connector for a quick-disconnect element, and a preload biasing element disposed in the housing to apply a biasing force between the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect element. The first connector of the quick-disconnect element may be configured onto the housing. For example, the housing may be cast to surround the first connector of the quick-disconnect element, or it may be a sheet metal support. The housing may then be secured to a server rack or server housing. In another embodiment, the housing is a server rack or server housing.

[0044] In some embodiments according to this disclosure, the first connector of the quick-disconnect element may be configured to complementarily mate with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element to form a fluid conduit through the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect element. In some embodiments, the first connector of the quick-disconnect element is a male protrusion extending out of the housing, while the second connector of the quick-disconnect element is a female connector. In some embodiments, the first connector of the quick-disconnect element is a female connector, while the second connector of the quick-disconnect element is a male protrusion.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first connector includes a valve for controlling fluid flow. In some embodiments, the second connector includes a valve for controlling fluid flow. In some embodiments, both the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member include a valve. The valve can be operated to open when the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member are engaged. For example, the valve can be fully opened when the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member are fully engaged, and the valve can be partially opened when the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member are partially engaged.

[0046] In some embodiments, the quick-disconnect element includes a preload biasing element that allows one or more connectors in the connector assembly to move when the applied force exceeds a preload value. In some embodiments, the preload biasing element is a spring. For example, the preload biasing element may be a compression spring, extension spring, torsion spring, constant force spring, helical spring, leaf spring, or other type of spring. In one embodiment, the preload biasing element is a pre-compression spring located between the rear of the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect element. In another embodiment, the preload biasing element is a pre-extension spring located between the front of the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect element. In both instances, the preload biasing element applies a force to the connector toward a first end of the housing.

[0047] The preload value of the preload biasing element may be equal to or greater than the mating force value. The preload value is the magnitude of the force applied by the preload biasing element relative to the housing to the connector. In some embodiments, the preload value is within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both an upper limit and a lower limit, including any one of 50 Newtons (N), 75 N, 100 N, 110 N, 120 N, 130 N, 140 N, 150 N, or more. For example, the preload value may be greater than 50.0 N. In some instances, the preload value may be less than 150.0 N. In some instances, the preload value may be between 50.0 N and 150.0 N.

[0048] The mating force value is the amount of force required to connect the first connector to the second connector. For example, the male and female connectors of the quick-disconnect member may have a snap-fit ​​connection that engages and becomes liquid-impermeable after the mating force value is applied linearly. In some embodiments, the mating force value is within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any one of 50 N, 75 N, 100 N, 110 N, 120 N, 130 N, 140 N, 150 N, or more. For example, the mating force value may be greater than 50.0 N. In some instances, the mating force value may be less than 150.0 N. In some instances, the mating force value may be between 50.0 N and 150.0 N. In at least one instance, the force required to mate the quick-disconnect member with a coolant pressure of 20 psi is approximately 114.4 N.

[0049] The preloaded biasing element may have a longitudinal range of motion to accommodate any tolerance issues in the system. For example, the preloaded biasing element may allow the first connector of the quick-disconnect element to move up to 7 mm relative to the housing. The biasing element can provide a biasing force that varies based on the relative longitudinal position of the housing and the first connector within the longitudinal range of motion. In some embodiments, the preloaded biasing element has a linear biasing force versus displacement curve. For example, the preloaded biasing element may follow Hooke's law and exhibit a linear force in response to displacement along the longitudinal axis of the preloaded biasing element. In some embodiments, the preloaded biasing element has an exponential biasing force versus displacement curve. For example, the preloaded biasing element may include a progressive spring, a compressible gas, or other material such that the force generated by the preloaded biasing element increases exponentially with respect to displacement along the longitudinal axis of the preloaded biasing element. In some embodiments, the preloaded biasing element has a variable biasing force versus displacement curve. For example, the preloaded biasing element may include a cam mechanism or other linkage that allows the force to decrease and then increase again, or the force to increase and then decrease.

[0050] In some embodiments, the preload value of the biasing element is equal to or greater than the engagement force value. In such instances, when a connection force is applied to push the first and second connectors toward each other, the first connector of the quick-disconnect element and the second connector of the quick-disconnect element can be fully engaged before the preloaded biasing element allows the fully engaged quick-disconnect element to move relative to the housing.

[0051] In another embodiment, when the preload value of the biasing element is less than the engagement force value, the applied connection force can first move the first connector of the quick-disconnect device relative to the housing until the force generated by the biasing element is greater than the engagement force value, at which point the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect device will engage. After the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect device are fully engaged, any additional force applied to the system can subsequently further move the engaged quick-disconnect system relative to the housing.

[0052] In some embodiments, the preload biasing element is a magnet. For example, the preload biasing element may be a first magnet, the positive pole of which abuts against a first connector of a quick-disconnect element, wherein the first connector of the quick-disconnect element may have a second magnet, the positive pole of which abuts against the first magnet. The resulting magnetic repulsion force can provide preload for the biasing element, and the relative movement of the first and second magnets toward each other increases the repulsion force of the biasing element.

[0053] In another embodiment, the preload biasing element may be a compressible gas located between the rear of the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect element. When the gas in the cylinder is compressed, the pressure in the cylinder increases, thereby providing an increased force from the biasing element.

[0054] In some embodiments, a preload biasing element is disposed in the second housing and applies a second biasing force between the second housing and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member. In some embodiments, a preload biasing element is present in both the first housing and the second housing. For example, the preload value of the first biasing element in the first housing may be greater than the preload value of the second biasing element in the second housing, thereby allowing the second connector of the quick-disconnect member to move relative to the second housing before the first connector of the quick-disconnect member moves relative to the first housing.

[0055] While biasing elements may allow for some compensation for changes in the longitudinal position or size of the structure of the quick-disconnect element and / or the connector in which the quick-disconnect element is mounted, some embodiments of this disclosure provide one or more mechanisms to compensate for directional changes transverse to the longitudinal direction.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first connecting assembly further includes a first guide element configured to complementarily engage with a second guide element to prevent displacement on the x and y axes and allow movement only on the z axis (e.g., the longitudinal axis of the quick-disconnect member). The guide element can be considered engaged after relative rotational movement of the first connector and the second connector and / or relative movement on the x and y axes is prevented. For example, the guide element is configured to allow movement in the longitudinal direction and limit and / or prevent rotational or lateral movement of the first connector and the second connector relative to each other. In one embodiment, the first guide element and the second guide element may engage with each other before the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member engage. In another embodiment, the first guide element and the second guide element may engage with each other simultaneously with the engagement of the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member.

[0057] In one embodiment, the first guide element may be a guide pin, and the second guide element may be a guide hole. In another embodiment, the first guide element may be a guide hole, and the second guide element may be a guide pin. In one embodiment, the guide pin and the guide hole have asymmetrical surfaces to prevent any rotational movement and / or movement along the x and y axes. For example, the guide pin may be primarily a cylinder with one flat side, and the guide hole may have the same structure as the guide pin. In yet another embodiment, the first guide element and the second guide element may be cross-grooved guide plates, one of which is horizontally oriented, and the other is vertically oriented.

[0058] In some embodiments, systems and methods for providing fluid connectivity for liquid cooling of electronic devices according to this disclosure are described in the following sections:

[0059] [A1] In some embodiments, a connection device includes: a housing having a front portion and a rear portion; a first connector for a quick-disconnect fluid conduit oriented toward the front portion of the housing; and a preload biasing element disposed in the housing to apply a biasing force between the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect member, wherein the preload biasing element is configured to allow the first connector of the quick-disconnect member to move relative to the housing.

[0060] [A2]In some embodiments, the connection device as described in [A1] includes a first guide element that is fixed to the housing.

[0061] [A3] In some embodiments, the preloaded bias element as described in [A1] or [A2] has a critical wiping value at which the compression of the preloaded bias element provides a bias force equal to the engagement force.

[0062] [A4] In some embodiments, the preload biasing element, as described in any one of [A1] to [A3], is at least one of a spring, a magnet, and a compressible gas.

[0063] [A5]In some embodiments, the preload value, as described in any one of [A1] to [A4], is configured to be at least equal to the mating force.

[0064] [A6] In some embodiments, the first connector, as described in any one of [A1] to [A5], includes a fluid valve.

[0065] [A7] In some embodiments, the first connector, as described in any one of [A1] to [A6], is a male connector.

[0066] [A8] In some embodiments, the connector device as described in any one of [A1] to [A7] includes a second connector of the quick-disconnect element, which is configured to complementarily engage with the first connector of the quick-disconnect element.

[0067] [A9] In some embodiments, the connector device as described in any one of [A1] to [A8] includes a second preload biasing element disposed in a second housing to apply a second biasing force between the second housing and the second connector. The second preload biasing element is configured to allow movement of the second connector of the quick-disconnect member relative to the second housing.

[0068] [B1] In other embodiments, a method for engaging a quick-disconnect element is provided, the method comprising: receiving a connection force to engage a first connector of the quick-disconnect element in a housing with a second connector of the quick-disconnect element; connecting the first connector of the quick-disconnect element with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element when the connection force is at least equal to the engagement force value; and connecting the first connector of the quick-disconnect element with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element when the connection force is greater than a preload value of a biasing element in the housing, thereby forming an engaged quick-disconnect element, wherein the engaged quick-disconnect element moves relative to the housing while maintaining connection with the engaged quick-disconnect element.

[0069] [B2]In some embodiments, the preload value as described in [B1] is equal to or greater than the fit force value.

[0070] [B3] In some embodiments, the biasing element as described in [B1] or [B2] provides a range of longitudinal motion.

[0071] [B4] In some embodiments, the biasing element as described in [B3] provides a biasing force that varies based on the relative longitudinal position of the housing and the first connector within the longitudinal range of motion.

[0072] [B5] In some embodiments, the method as described in any one of [B1] to [B4] includes allowing the first guide element in the housing to engage with the second guide element before the first connector of the quick-disconnect element engages with the second connector of the quick-disconnect element.

[0073] [B6] In some embodiments, the method as described in any one of [B1] to [B5] includes connecting a second preload biasing element to the second connector of the quick-disconnect member in a second housing, wherein the second preload biasing element allows the mating quick-disconnect member to move relative to the second housing. [B7] In some embodiments, the second preload value of the second preload biasing element as described in [B6] is at least equal to the first preload value of the first preload biasing element.

[0074] [B8] In some embodiments, the method as described in any one of [B1] to [B7] includes causing cooling fluid to flow through a fitted quick-disconnect element.

[0075] [C1] In other embodiments, a system for forming a connection in a server rack includes: a first connector of a quick-disconnect element disposed in a housing; a second connector of the quick-disconnect element configured to complementarily engage with the first connector of the quick-disconnect element to form a mating quick-disconnect element; and a preload biasing element positioned between the first connector of the quick-disconnect element and the housing, wherein the force provided by the preload biasing element is not less than the mating force between the first connector of the quick-disconnect element and the second connector of the quick-disconnect element.

[0076] [C2] In some embodiments, the system as described in [C1] includes a first guide element and a second guide element fixed to the housing. The first guide element is configured to cooperate with the second guide element.

[0077] [C3] In some embodiments, the mating quick-disconnect members as described in [C1] or [C2] form conduits through a first connector of the quick-disconnect member and a second connector of the quick-disconnect member, and the system includes cooling fluid positioned in the fluid conduit.

[0078] This document describes one or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure. These described embodiments are examples of the technology currently disclosed. Additionally, to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of actual embodiments may be described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many embodiment-specific decisions will be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from embodiment to embodiment. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but remain routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0079] The articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements in the foregoing description. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements besides those listed. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features. For example, any element described with respect to embodiments herein may be combined with any element of any other embodiment described herein. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values ​​described herein are intended to include such values, as well as other values ​​that are "about" or "approximate" such values, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments of this disclosure are covered. Therefore, the values ​​should be interpreted broadly enough to cover values ​​that are at least close enough to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The values ​​include variations expected at least in a suitable manufacturing or production process and may include values ​​within 5%, 1%, 0.1%, or 0.01% of the value.

[0080] In view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art should recognize that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Equivalent constructions, including the functional "means plus function" clause, are intended to cover structures described herein that perform the functions, including structural equivalents that operate in the same manner and equivalent structures that provide the same function. The applicant's explicit intent is not to invoke any means plus function or other functional claims for any claim, except for claims where the phrase "component for..." appears with the associated function. Every addition, deletion, and modification to the embodiments that falls within the meaning and scope of the claims will be included in the claims.

[0081] As used herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” refer to quantities close to the stated quantity, which still perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” may refer to quantities less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the stated quantity. Furthermore, it should be understood that any direction or frame of reference in the foregoing description is only a relative direction or movement. For example, any reference to “up” and “down,” or “above” or “below” is merely a description of the relative position or movement of the relevant element.

[0082] The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or characteristics of the invention. The described embodiments are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Variations in the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims will be included within the scope of the claims. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0009] To describe the manner in which the above and other features of this disclosure are obtained, a more specific description will be given with reference to specific embodiments of this disclosure illustrated in the accompanying drawings. For better understanding, like elements are indicated by like reference numerals in the various drawings. Although some of the drawings may be schematic or exaggerated representations of concepts, at least some of the drawings are drawn to scale. It should be understood that the drawings depict some exemplary embodiments, which will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail by means of the drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2-1 is a plan view of the rapid disconnection system according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure during disconnection;

[0012] Figure 2-2 is a plan view of the quick disconnect system of Figure 2-1 in full engagement, according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figures 2-3 are plan views of the quick disconnection system of Figure 2-2, which moves relative to the housing, according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a quick-disconnect component according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a quick disconnection device according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, the quick disconnection device including a preloaded biasing element disposed in a second housing;

[0016] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a quick disconnection device according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, the quick disconnection device including a preloaded biasing element disposed in both a first housing and a second housing;

[0017] Figure 6-1 is an example of a preloaded biasing element having a linear force-to-displacement curve according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 6-2 is an example of a preloaded bias element having an exponential force-displacement curve according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figures 6-3 are examples of preloaded biasing elements having a first type of variable force-displacement curve according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figures 6-4 are examples of preloaded biasing elements having a second type of variable force-displacement curve according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 7 illustrates an asymmetric guide pin according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0022] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a complementary guiding element according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Biomaterial Storage]

[0084] Domestic storage information (please note in order of storage institution, date, and number): None. International storage information (please note in order of storage country, institution, date, and number): None.

Claims

1. A connection component, comprising: A housing having a front portion and a rear portion; a first connector for a quick-disconnect fluid conduit oriented toward the front portion of the housing; A preload biasing element disposed in the housing to apply a biasing force in a longitudinal direction between the housing and the first connector of the quick-disconnect fluid conduit, wherein the preload biasing element is configured to allow the first connector of the quick-disconnect fluid conduit to move relative to the housing; and a member independent of the housing for allowing movement in the longitudinal direction and limiting rotation of the first connector and the second connector relative to each other.

2. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 1, the component for allowing movement in the longitudinal direction and restricting rotation of the first connector and the second connector relative to each other, includes a first guide element fixed to an exterior of the housing and extending parallel to the first connector.

3. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the preloaded biasing element has a critical wipe value of ±7 mm, at which a compression of the preloaded biasing element provides a bias force equal to a mating force.

4. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the preloaded bias element is at least one of a magnet and a compressible gas.

5. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein a preload value of the preload biasing element is configured to be at least equal to a mating force, the preload value of the preload biasing element being between 50 N and 100 N.

6. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first connector includes a fluid valve.

7. The connection assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the first connector of the quick-disconnect fluid conduit is a male connector.

8. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second connector of the quick-disconnect fluid conduit is configured to complementarily engage with the first connector of the quick-disconnect fluid conduit.

9. The connection assembly as claimed in claim 8, further comprising a second preload biasing element disposed in a second housing to apply a second biasing force between the second housing and the second connector, and wherein the second preload biasing element is configured to allow the second connector of the quick-disconnect fluid conduit to move relative to the second housing.

10. A method for engaging a quick-disconnect element, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a connection force to engage a first connector of the quick-disconnect element in a housing with a second connector of the quick-disconnect element; engaging the first connector with the second connector when the connection force is at least equal to an engagement force value; and moving the engaged quick-disconnect element relative to the housing while maintaining the connection of the engaged quick-disconnect element relative to the housing when the connection force is greater than a preload value of a biasing element in the housing, wherein the biasing element has a critical wiping value of ±7 mm, at which a compression of the biasing element provides a biasing force value equal to an engagement force value.

11. The method as described in claim 10, wherein the preload value is equal to or greater than the mating force value.

12. The method as described in claim 10, wherein the biasing element provides a longitudinal range of motion.

13. The method as described in claim 12, wherein the biasing element provides a bias force that is constant based on a relative longitudinal position of the housing and the first connector within the longitudinal range of motion.

14. The method as described in claim 10 further includes the step of engaging a first guide element and a second guide element in the housing before the first connector of the quick-disconnect member engages with the second connector of the quick-disconnect member.

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising the step of: connecting a second preloaded biasing element to the second connector of the quick-disconnect member in a second housing, wherein the second preloaded biasing element allows the mating quick-disconnect member to move relative to the second housing.

16. The method as described in claim 15, wherein a second preload value of the second preload bias element is at least equal to the preload value of the bias element.

17. The method as described in claim 10 further includes the step of: allowing a cooling fluid to flow through the mating quick-release element.

18. A system for forming a fluid connection, the system comprising: A first connector of a quick-disconnect component is configured in a server housing; A second connector of the quick-disconnect element in a server rack is configured to complementarily mate with the first connector of the quick-disconnect element in the server housing to form a mating quick-disconnect element; a preload biasing element is positioned between the first connector of the quick-disconnect element and the server housing, wherein the force provided by the preload biasing element is not less than the mating force between the first connector and the second connector of the quick-disconnect element; and a first guide element is fixed to and independent of the server housing to allow movement in the longitudinal direction and restrict rotation of the first connector and the second connector relative to each other.

19. The system as claimed in claim 18 further includes a second guide element fixed to the server rack, wherein the first guide element is configured to cooperate with the second guide element.

20. The system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the mating quick-disconnect member forms a fluid conduit through the first connector of the quick-disconnect member and the second connector of the quick-disconnect member, and further includes a cooling fluid positioned in the fluid conduit.

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