Dry-Break Quick Connector With Integrated Valve Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dry break or poppet valves in fluid connectors are complex and costly to assemble due to the precise positioning of multiple components within a small space.
Innovation Solution
A quick connector design featuring a coupler portion with a movable valve and a receptacle portion with a socket cavity that allows the valve to open when the endform of a second fluid tube is inserted, enabling fluid flow and automatically closing when the tube is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dry break or poppet valves are permanently mounted within a valve module in the connector receptacle, then fluid flow can be stopped when the endform is disengaged, but the assembly becomes difficult and costly due to the number of components needing precise positioning in a small space
Solution Approach 1:
The valve components are integrated directly into the coupler body as a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate valve modules and multiple discrete components. The valve seat, poppet, and spring are formed as integral parts of the coupler assembly, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable fluid flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, guides the endform insertion, and houses the valve mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate valve modules and reduces the overall number of components required in the connector system.
2Reliability
If conventional dry break or poppet valves are permanently mounted within a valve module in the connector receptacle, then fluid flow can be stopped when the endform is disengaged, but the assembly costs increase due to difficult assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The valve components are integrated directly into the coupler body as a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate valve modules and multiple discrete components. The valve seat, poppet, and spring are formed as integral parts of the coupler assembly, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable fluid flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is designed to automatically operate without external control. The spring-loaded poppet self-actuates based on the presence or absence of the endform, eliminating the need for complex control systems or manual intervention during assembly and operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If a movable valve is integrated within the coupler portion, then assembly is simplified and costs are reduced, but the valve must be reliably actuated by endform insertion and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-compressed during assembly to store potential energy, and the poppet is pre-positioned in the closed position. When the endform is inserted, it automatically releases the spring's stored energy to open the valve, ensuring reliable actuation without requiring additional actuators or control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is designed to automatically operate without external control. The spring-loaded poppet self-actuates based on the presence or absence of the endform, eliminating the need for complex control systems or manual intervention during assembly and operation.
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 design simplifies assembly, reduces costs, and ensures reliable fluid flow management by integrating the valve within the connector body, allowing for easy maintenance and adaptable to different fluid systems.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned about the plunger and biased against the stop to move the valve to the closed position
Implementation Method 2
A valve mounted within the fluid passage is movable between a closed and an open position
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A quick connector and connector body comprises a coupler portion 20 having a fluid passage 25 connected to a first fluid tube 54. A valve 100 mounted within the fluid passage is movable between a closed and an open position. A receptacle portion 16 coupled to the coupler portion includes a socket cavity 72 adapted to receive a second fluid tube within the socket cavity that causes the valve to move into the open position allowing fluid to flow through the fluid passage from the first fluid tube to the second fluid tube.