Androgynous Quick Disconnect Interface for Self-Mating Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors require two distinct types, one male and one female, for different applications, making them difficult to manufacture, stock, and repair, especially in industrial settings where multiple connectors are involved, and there is a need for a solution that allows a single interface to connect with itself and be configurable for various applications.
Innovation Solution
A universal multi-sensor quick disconnect interface that is mechanically androgynous, capable of connecting with a second identical interface, and reconfigurable to be either connectively androgynous or non-androgynous, featuring sensors to measure metrics and a processor to control the interface in response, allowing it to handle various mediums and energies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two distinct connectors (male and female) are used for different applications, then specific connection functions are achieved, but manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design where a single connector type can perform multiple connection functions across different applications. The connector includes a body with a cavity that can receive and secure various插接元件 (insert elements), allowing one connector design to serve multiple purposes rather than requiring dedicated male and female connectors for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the traditionally separate male and female connector designs into a single unified connector type. Both connectors have identical external geometries and can mate with each other, eliminating the need for distinct male and female forms while maintaining proper electrical and mechanical connections.
2Reliability
If two different connectors are used, then proper mating connections are achieved, but distributor inventory and stocking requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector design allows distributors to stock only one type of connector instead of maintaining separate inventories of male and female connectors. The single connector type can be used in all applications, simplifying supply chain management and reducing the quantity of different connector varieties that need to be maintained in stock.
3Ease of repair
If a single faulty connector must be identified among multiple connectors, then repair efficiency is maintained, but diagnostic complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates visual indicators such as color-coded markings or LED indicators on the connector bodies to quickly identify faulty connectors. These visual cues change state (e.g., color change, illumination) to indicate connection status or faults, allowing rapid identification without complex diagnostic procedures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If mechanically androgynous interface is designed, then single interface can connect to itself, but rotation and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
While the overall connector body is symmetric to allow self-connection, the patent incorporates asymmetric features such as keyed slots, asymmetric latch mechanisms, or orientation markers that guide proper alignment during connection. These asymmetric elements ensure that even though the connector can mate with itself, the connection is made in the correct orientation without requiring complex rotation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal multi-sensor quick disconnect interface is provided. In one embodiment, the interface is mechanically androgynous (i.e., capable of connecting with a second identical interface) and reconfigurable to be either connectively androgynous or non-androgynous. To be mechanically androgynous, corresponding connectors are provided to the left and right of the center y-axis, where each connector is equidistant from both a center x and y-axis and opposite in gender (i.e., male, female). The connectivity of corresponding connectors left and right of center can either be separate (non-androgynous) or tied together (androgynous), which may be accomplished via a switch, a wye, etc. The interface may further include at least one sensor for measuring at least one metric of a medium (e.g., fluid, gas, etc.) or energy (power, data, optical, etc.) transferred therethrough and at least one processor for controlling at least one feature of said interface in response thereto.