Compact Fluid Coupling Structure With Radial-Movable Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid couplers require additional space for the movement of coupling mechanisms, leading to an increase in the radial size of the coupling portion.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device design where the arrangement portion is movable in the radial direction with a maximum outer diameter smaller than the first tubular portion, suppressed by axial constraints and sealing mechanisms, allowing for reduced radial size without compromising connectivity and fluid integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a coupling mechanism is provided inside a first tubular portion to enable movable connection, then the coupling device achieves adaptability and ease of operation, but the radial size of the coupling portion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is nested inside the first tubular portion, with the arrangement portion having a maximum outer diameter smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the first tubular portion. This allows the movable coupling mechanism to be contained within the tubular structure without increasing the overall radial size of the coupling portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The arrangement portion is designed to move in the radial direction of the first tubular portion rather than requiring additional radial space. By utilizing radial movement within the existing tubular boundary, the invention achieves movable connection capability without expanding the coupling portion's radial dimensions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the arrangement portion is constrained in the axial direction, then connection stability is improved, but the ease of assembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a fixed state during assembly to a constrained state during operation. The axial constraint is designed to engage naturally during the assembly process, providing stability in use while maintaining ease of assembly through its dynamic engagement characteristic.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial constraint mechanism is designed to self-eng age during the assembly process without requiring additional steps or tools. The constraint structure automatically provides axial stability once the coupling portions are connected, making the assembly process simple while ensuring connection stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device includes a first portion and a coupling portion. The first portion includes a first flow path and an attachment portion. The coupling portion includes a first tubular portion including one end portion to be connected to a second tubular portion of a second portion including a second flow path, and an arrangement portion provided at the other end portion of the first tubular portion and to be attached to the attachment portion. The movement of the arrangement portion with respect to the first portion is suppressed in the axial direction of the first tubular portion. The arrangement portion is movable with respect to the first portion in the radial direction of the first tubular portion. A maximum outer diameter of the arrangement portion is smaller than a maximum outer diameter of the first tubular portion.