Automatic Clean Coupler Connection for Hazardous Chemical Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
In semiconductor fabrication plants, large-sized quick couplers used for transporting acidic or alkaline chemicals require manual operation, leading to increased risk of chemical exposure and safety hazards due to the need for multiple workers to connect and disconnect them.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for automatic clean connection that includes a coupler connection module for aligning and connecting/disconnecting male and female couplers, and a coupler cleaning module for cleaning and drying liquid contact parts, allowing for automated operation and minimizing human exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to connect and disconnect large-sized quick couplers, then the couplers can be connected and disconnected, but multiple workers are needed and they are exposed to dangerous substances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated mechanical system. The quick coupler connection and disconnection process is automated through a control unit that coordinates the movement and coupling of the male and female couplers, eliminating the need for multiple workers to manually handle the hazardous chemicals
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated apparatus performs the connection and disconnection tasks without human intervention. The control unit automatically manages the coupling process, positioning, and securing of the quick couplers, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring external manual operation
2Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for quick coupler connection, then connection can be made, but chemical pollution may occur due to contact with workers or materials
Solution Approach 1:
The automated apparatus acts as an intermediary between the operators and the hazardous chemicals. By using the automated system to handle the quick coupler connection, the chemicals only come into contact with the automated mechanical components rather than workers or other materials, preventing chemical pollution and safety accidents
3Extent of automation
If automated connection is implemented, then worker safety is improved, but additional cleaning and drying functions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cleaning and drying functions with the quick coupler connection system. The cleaning unit and drying unit are integrated into the overall apparatus, allowing these additional functions to be performed in conjunction with the automated connection process without requiring completely separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The automated apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, serving not only for connection and disconnection but also for cleaning and drying the quick couplers. This universal design allows a single system to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate equipment
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 enables safe and efficient automatic connection and disconnection of large-sized quick couplers, reducing the risk of chemical exposure and improving productivity by automating the process, while ensuring the couplers are cleaned and dried to prevent pollution.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid introduced into the inlet flows to the form of cyclones to allow the interior of the coupler cleaning module to be cleaned or dried
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for automatic clean connection that is capable of automatically performing the connection and separation of a male coupler to and from a female coupler and cleaning and drying liquid contact parts of the male coupler and the female coupler. According to the present invention, the apparatus for automatic clean connection, which loads or unloads chemicals from one side tank into the other side tank, the apparatus including: a main body having a female coupler connected to the other side tank; a coupler connection module for moving a male coupler connected to one side tank in a direction of a y-axis to allow the male coupler to be fastened to or separated from the female coupler; and a coupler cleaning module for cleaning or drying liquid contact parts of the male coupler and the female coupler.