Bayonet Connector Locking Pin Prevents Tension Drop Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies for tendon strings in tether systems can become disconnected due to temporary drops in tension, particularly under alternating seawater forces, which is problematic for maintaining stability in tethered leg platforms.
Innovation Solution
A releasable connector assembly featuring a socket and plug with load-bearing projections, radial tabs, and channels that engage in a bayonet coupling, along with a moveable locking pin to prevent unintentional disconnection, ensuring the plug remains locked even with tension fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bayonet coupling connector assembly is used to connect members under tension, then the connector can be easily assembled and disassembled, but it becomes disconnected upon temporary drop in tension
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates a moveable locking pin that can transition between extended and retracted positions. The pin is extendable into the channel to trap the tab in the undercut during normal operation, and retractable to allow intentional disconnection. This dynamic mechanism maintains reliable connection during tension fluctuations while preserving ease of operation when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin is positioned to proactively trap the tab in the undercut before tension drops occur. By having the pin extend into the channel in advance, the system prevents unintended disconnection during temporary tension releases, addressing the reliability issue before it manifests.
2Reliability
If the locking pin extends into the channel to trap the tab, then unintentional release is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin mechanism is integrated into the existing connector assembly structure, combining the locking function with the bayonet coupling components. The pin utilizes the existing channel and tab geometry, merging multiple functions into a unified structure rather than adding entirely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin is designed to be self-actuating through spring biasing and geometric interaction with the tab. The pin automatically extends to trap the tab and maintains the locked position without requiring external control systems, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring reliability.
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 connector assembly prevents unintentional release of the plug, allowing only upward loads to be carried by the projections, enhancing reliability and robustness while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
engages with the first camming surface, the camming action thereof causing relative rotation between the members as the plug is inserted into the socket
Implementation Method 2
the tab engages with the second camming surface, the resulting camming action continuing the plug further to rotate relative to the socket, guiding the tab into the undercut
Implementation Method 3
re-lowering of the plug into the socket brings the tab into engagement with the third camming surface, the resulting camming action continuing the relative rotation between the plug and socket
Data Source
AI summary
A releasable connector assembly comprising a socket body 2 and a plug body 3. The socket body 2 has a set of channels 15 formed therein and the plug body 3 having a corresponding set of radial tabs 7 formed thereon, the channels 15 forming a keyway for the tabs 7 such that load bearing projections 5, 14 on the bodies are releasably engageable in the manner of a bayonet coupling. The assembly is characterised in that a set of locking pins are provided on the socket member that are extendable into the channels 15 so as, in use, to trap the tabs 7 in undercuts 15k of the channels 15, thereby preventing unintentional release of the plug 3 from the socket 2, and retractable from the channels 15 so as to enable release of the plug 3 from the socket 2.