Cam-and-Groove Coupler Lock Preventing Accidental Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cam-and-groove couplers are susceptible to accidental or unauthorized release, leading to potential fluid spillage, contamination, and tampering, which can result in environmental hazards and monetary losses.
Innovation Solution
A lock comprising a collar member with wall portions and projections that prevent the lever arms from moving to the unsecured position, combined with a securing member to ensure the lock remains in place, preventing accidental or unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lever arms are made accessible for operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to accidental or unauthorized release
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into separate functional components: a collar member that provides structural support and positioning, wall portions that prevent lever arm movement, projections that engage with the coupler body, and a securing member that locks the collar in place. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively achieving both accessibility and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar member acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the lever arms. It provides the necessary protection against accidental release while allowing authorized access through the securing mechanism. The collar mediates between the conflicting requirements of security and operability.
2Reliability
If the collar member is made secure against sliding off, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The projection is integrated as part of the collar member structure rather than being a separate component. This merging reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the engagement function. The projection combines with the collar's cylindrical body to create a unified structure that prevents slippage without adding excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection automatically engages with the coupler body groove when the collar is properly positioned, providing self-locking functionality. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for additional active locking components while ensuring reliable prevention of collar slippage.
3Reliability
If the wall portions are positioned to prevent lever arm movement, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to restricted access
Solution Approach 1:
The collar member transitions between different states: when unsecured, it allows full access to lever arms for operation; when secured, it provides protection against unauthorized access. This dynamic state change allows the system to adapt between the conflicting requirements of accessibility and security based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing member acts as an intermediary control mechanism that regulates access to the lever arms. It provides a deliberate action requirement (securing/unsecuring) that prevents accidental or unauthorized access while allowing intentional operation when needed.
4Reliability
If the projections extend inwardly to engage the coupler, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The projection provides localized engagement at a specific point on the collar member, rather than requiring complex engagement mechanisms throughout the entire structure. This local quality approach achieves reliable prevention of collar removal with minimal additional structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection automatically engages with the corresponding groove in the coupler body when the collar is positioned correctly, providing self-locking functionality. This self-service engagement reduces the need for additional active locking components while ensuring reliable prevention of collar slippage or removal.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock for a cam-and-groove coupler comprises a collar member positionable around the cam-and-groove coupler. The collar member comprises at least first and second wall portions. The first wall portion is positionable adjacent the first lever arm of the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent movement of the first lever arm to an unsecured position. The second wall portion is positionable adjacent a second lever arm of the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent movement of the second lever arm to the unsecured position. The lock further comprises at least one projection extending inwardly from the collar member and configured to engage the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent the collar member from sliding off of the cam-and-groove coupler. At least one securing member is coupled to the collar member and configured to releasably secure the collar member around the cam-and-groove-coupler.