Coupling Device Connection State Sensing via Magnetic Flux
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for monitoring the connection state of quick connect/disconnect coupling devices in fluid flow lines rely on manual inspection, which can lead to errors and compromise fluid delivery systems, potentially causing damage, especially in critical applications like coolant systems for computer equipment.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device equipped with a magnet and a sensor that detects changes in magnetic flux to determine the connection state, allowing for automated monitoring and communication of the connection status to a host controller, enabling real-time alerts and control adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inspection is used to monitor connection state, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of connection monitoring deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated sensing system that uses a magnet and sensor to detect valve member position. This substitution of mechanical/manual monitoring with an automated electromagnetic sensing system resolves the contradiction by providing reliable automated monitoring without requiring complex manual inspection procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device monitors its own connection state through the integrated magnet and sensor system that automatically detects when the valve member moves between connected and unconnected states. This self-monitoring capability eliminates the need for external manual inspection while maintaining simple device architecture.
2Productivity
If automated sensing system is implemented, then productivity of connection monitoring is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual inspection procedures with a simple automated sensing system consisting of a magnet and sensor. This substitution dramatically improves monitoring productivity while adding minimal structural complexity, as the sensing components integrate seamlessly into the existing coupling device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet serves as an intermediary element that translates the mechanical position of the valve member into a detectable magnetic field change. This intermediary mechanism enables automated detection without requiring direct mechanical contact or complex sensing arrangements, thus improving productivity with minimal added complexity.
3Measurement precision
If magnet and sensor are added to coupling device, then measurement precision of connection state is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a magnetic field-based sensing system instead of complex mechanical position detection mechanisms. This approach achieves high measurement precision for connection state detection while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as magnets and sensors are standard components that can be easily integrated into the coupling device assembly process.
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
This solution provides reliable, automated monitoring of connection states, preventing fluid flow disruptions and reducing the risk of equipment damage by ensuring accurate and timely detection of connection changes.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor coupled to the main body, the sensor being configured to sense a change in a magnetic flux of the magnet as the valve member moves between the unconnected state and the connected state
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device includes a main body defining a fluid flow passage, and a valve member moveable between an unconnected state and a connected state. The coupling device also includes a magnet coupled to the valve member, and a sensor coupled to the main body, the sensor being configured to sense a change in a magnetic flux of the magnet as the valve member moves between the unconnected state and the connected state to determine a connection state of the coupling device.