Aseptic Coupling Device Asymmetric Bevels Single-Operator Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling devices for connecting tubes to containers in aseptic environments, such as the biopharma and food industry, are complex, difficult to use, and lack repeatability, often requiring two operators and being prone to leakage, which can contaminate products.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with beveled inner loop surfaces of different diameters, allowing easy alignment and secure engagement of connection flanges, featuring a locking mechanism with a nut/screw device and elastic tension loops to maintain the connection without manual holding, ensuring aseptic and cost-effective operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional coupling devices with symmetric loop surfaces are used, then the structure is simple, but the alignment and engagement of connection flanges is difficult and requires two operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing bevelled inner loop surfaces on the tension loops where the inner edges are positioned at different radial distances from the center axis. This asymmetric configuration creates a keyway-like effect that guides the connection flanges into proper alignment during insertion, eliminating the need for manual alignment by multiple operators while maintaining structural simplicity
2Reliability
If traditional coupling devices are used, then the structure is simple, but the repeatability of mounting is poor and leakage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric positioning of inner edges on bevelled surfaces creates a predetermined engagement path that ensures repeatable mounting. The connection flanges are guided to engage at specific positions on the bevelled surfaces, ensuring consistent gasket compression and sealing contact every time, thereby improving reliability and reducing leakage risk
Solution Approach 2:
The bevelled inner loop surfaces perform preliminary alignment and positioning of the connection flanges before the final tightening action. The asymmetric geometry pre-positions the flanges correctly as they are inserted, ensuring proper engagement before the locking mechanism is fully activated, which improves repeatability and prevents leakage
3Productivity
If traditional coupling devices requiring manual holding are used, then the structure is simple, but the operation requires two operators and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric bevelled surfaces automatically guide and position the connection flanges during insertion, eliminating the need for manual holding or alignment by a second operator. The geometry itself performs the alignment function, allowing single-operator installation and improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device performs self-alignment through the asymmetric bevelled inner loop surfaces. The connection flanges are automatically guided into the correct position by the geometry of the bevelled surfaces during insertion, without requiring external manual intervention for alignment, thereby enabling single-operator operation and increasing productivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution simplifies the connection process, reduces the risk of leakage, and enhances repeatability, allowing single-operator use while maintaining aseptic conditions and ensuring reliable, cost-effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
the tension loops are elastically loaded in the direction against the seat of the connection flanges
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is related to a coupling device (1) comprising at least two tension loops (102, 202) which are moveably connected to each other between an open and a closed position substantially in one level, which loops are provided with inwardly along said tension loops extending recesses (106, 205), and first and second connecting flange clamping edges (110, 209 and 111, 210, respectively) provided on each loop and situated on each side of said recesses, wherein said first edges are a first connecting flange (118) holding edges (110, 209) which are in the open and closed positions intended to hold in place and that said second edges are a second connecting flange (121) loosening edges (111, 210) which in the open position are intended to loosen.