Multi-Path Aircraft Refueling Connector for Incompatible Fuels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-fuel aircraft require substantial design and procedural changes due to incompatible fuels, leading to increased complexity and time in refueling processes.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft design featuring a single connector system with multiple fluid paths allows for simultaneous transfer of different fuels by using a first connector with distinct fluid paths to and from aircraft fuel tanks, ensuring correct alignment and preventing cross-flow through a complementary connector system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate connector pairs are used for different fuels, then fuel compatibility and safety are improved, but the number of couplings and refueling time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with multiple independent fluid paths (first fluid path, second fluid path, third fluid path) that can handle different fuel types simultaneously. Each path includes its own seal and flow control mechanism, allowing the single connector to perform multiple fuel transfer functions without cross-contamination, thus reducing the need for multiple separate connectors while maintaining fuel compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The connector internally segments different fuel flows into separate paths. The first conduit carries one fuel type, the second conduit carries another fuel type, and the third conduit provides an additional flow path. This internal segmentation prevents mixing of incompatible fuels while using a single external connector interface
2Reliability
If multiple separate connector pairs are used for different fuels, then fuel compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connector functions are merged into a single connector assembly. The first connector includes multiple conduits (first conduit, second conduit, third conduit) that are integrated into one structure, with each conduit having its own seal and flow path. This consolidation reduces the number of external coupling operations needed while maintaining the safety benefits of separate fuel pathways through internal segmentation
3Productivity
If a single connector with multiple fluid paths is used, then refueling time and complexity are reduced, but the risk of cross-flow between different fuel paths increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector internally segments different fuel flows into separate, isolated paths. Each fluid path (first fluid path, second fluid path, third fluid path) has its own conduit and seal arrangement, preventing cross-flow between different fuel types while maintaining a single external connector interface for efficient refueling operations
Solution Approach 2:
Each fluid path within the connector has localized sealing and flow control features tailored to its specific fuel type. The seals are positioned at specific locations within each conduit to ensure proper sealing for that particular flow path, allowing different fuel paths to coexist safely within the same connector assembly
4Reliability
If connectors are designed with alignment features, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment pin and alignment port are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide unique orientation guidance. The alignment pin has a specific shape that fits into a corresponding asymmetric alignment port, ensuring that the first connector and second connector align in the correct orientation only, preventing misconnection while using simple mechanical features
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft having a port over which a first connector is mounted for connecting to a second connector to transfer fluid to and/or from the aircraft is disclosed. The first connector includes a first fluid path extending from the port towards an aircraft fluid tank and a second, different, fluid path which extends from the port towards an aircraft fluid tank.