Cryogenic Connector Lanyard Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic connectors used in launchers are prone to unintentional disconnection during pre-launch, posing safety risks and complicating the emptying of fuel tanks, especially due to factors like strong winds, ice formation, and external interference.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic connector with a quick-acting coupling and a securing device that applies a securing force to prevent accidental release, and a release mechanism activated by a lanyard tension greater than the securing force, allowing liftoff-triggered disconnection while minimizing accidental separations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a lanyard-activated disconnection system is used to enable late disconnection upon liftoff, then the disconnection timing is improved, but the risk of unintentional disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a securing device that actively prevents unintentional disconnection before liftoff. The securing device includes a securing element that engages with the connector body to lock the coupling in place, counteracting any forces that might cause accidental disconnection from wind, ice, or external interference. This preliminary protective measure ensures that the lanyard-activated system only disconnects when intentionally triggered by liftoff forces, not by random external factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by designing the securing device with adjustable securing forces that can be modified based on operational conditions. The securing element can be configured with different engagement strengths, and the lanyard tension threshold can be calibrated to distinguish between normal pre-launch movements and actual liftoff forces. This parameter adjustment capability allows the system to maintain high reliability across varying environmental conditions while preserving the intended disconnection timing functionality.
2Reliability
If the connector is made securely locked to prevent accidental release, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation for intentional disconnection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the disconnection function into two distinct mechanisms: a securing device for preventing accidental release and a release mechanism for intentional disconnection. The securing element engages automatically upon coupling to provide reliable locking, while the release element provides a separate, dedicated interface for intentional release. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized independently - the securing device for maximum reliability and the release mechanism for ease of operation - without compromising either function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a release mechanism that acts as a mediator between the secured coupling state and the disconnected state. The release element serves as an intermediate component that, when activated, overcomes the securing force in a controlled manner. This intermediary mechanism ensures that intentional disconnection requires a deliberate action (activating the release mechanism) while maintaining the secure locked state during normal operation, thus balancing reliability with ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cryogenic connector (1) for conveying a cryogenic medium comprising a connector plug (10) with a plug body (11) and a nipple (12); the connector (1) further comprising a connector socket (50) with a socket body (51); a quick-acting coupling (60) lockingly engageable with said nipple (12) and having a close-release element (62) able to switch said quick-acting coupling (60) between a closed and released position; a securing device (52) for applying a securing force (F1) on said close-release element (62) to secure the quick-acting coupling (60) in its closed position; means for releasing the close-release element (62) to apply a release force (F2) opposite to and greater than said securing force (F1) onto said close-release element (62) to bring the quick-acting coupling (60) in its released position, for allowing the connector plug (10) to be separated from the connector socket (50).